bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Effect of Woven Jute Agro Textile Mulch on Soil Health and Productivity of Banana (Musa domestica L.) in New Alluvial Soil
Authors: Sarkar Anwesha , Tarafdar P. K. , De S. K.
Published: March 2020

To evaluate the effects of jute agro textile mulches on yield and yield attributes, water use efficiency of banana as well as physicochemical and biological properties of soil under banana production. The study was conducted in the experimental farm of Bidhan Chandra Krishi Viswavidyalaya, West Bengal, India for two consecutive years from March to February of 2017-2018 and 2018 - 2019. The experiment was carried out using a randomized block design with four treatments and five replicates taken Banana (variety Singapuri) as a test crop. The treatments (T), composed of different strength of jute agro textile (JAT) used as mulching material. All the data regarding yield, yield attributes, crop water use efficiency and soil properties were recorded accordingly. The response of yield over control was 32.52 t/ha, 38.61 t/ha, 43.05 t/ha in treatments T2- 500 GSM, T3 - 800 GSM and T4 - 1000 GSM respectively where GSM is gram per square meter. Though the best results were obtained in T4- 1000 GSM, in terms of cost-benefit ratio T3- 800 GSM proved more beneficial than the other treatments. The average water use efficiency of the crop increased significantly by 96.9% (on an average) over control for using the jute agro textile mulch. Among all the treatments, T3 exhibited the most promising effect on improving yield and other attributes along with maintaining sustainability because it provided the most favourable soil condition compared to other mulches for banana.
Effect of Yellow Root Cassava, Orange Flesh Sweet Potato and Plantain Fortified with Moringa oleifera Leave on the Functional and Proximate Composition of Extruded Product
Authors: Uzoaga L. N. , Mazi E. A. , Oganezi N. , Kanu N. A.
Published: March 2020

Orange-fleshed sweet potato (OFSP) is a promising root crop due to its high β-carotene content which could help to reduce vitamin A deficiency (VAD). However, it is a less utilized perishable crop. In order to use OFSP tubers, incorporation with other flours in processing and baked products can be considered. The aim of this study is to determine the functional properties of the composite flour, development of extruded snacks using locally fabricated extruder from flour of different blend ratio of OFSP, YRC, Plantain fortified with moringa leaves powder and to determine the proximate composition of the fresh of orange fleshed sweet potato, yellow root cassava, plantain, the flour and the extruded baked snacks.
Expression of Salivary Resistin in Oral Premalignant Individuals
Authors: Roghay Shafaq Saeed , Razi Afifa , Hosein Mervyn , Shahid Moazzam , Butt Saima , Batool Hira
Published: March 2020

Introduction: Resistin, (Retn) a pro - inflammatory cytokine, accumulates at the site of inflammation. It is found to be elevated in chronic inflammation. The aim of this present study is to evaluate the levels of salivary resistin in healthy individuals and in patients with Oral pre-malignant lesion.

Materials and Methods: This case control study comprises of total 90 patients which includes 45 healthy controls and 45 cases diagnosed with oral pre-malignant lesions. Salivary levels of resistin and clinical parameters were evaluated in all of them. Socio - demographic data (age, gender and residence) was collected from all participants through a questionnaire. In addition,  we also recorded the total duration of tobacco usage (in years), daily frequency, and intra-oral examination and oral hygiene practices. This was followed by evaluation of clinical parameters of oral premalignant lesions and investigation of salivary levels of resistin through ELISA.

Results: The saliva of all the patients showed presence of resistin. On analyzing the samples present study shows no significant difference and variation in the salivary levels of resistin in healthy and OPML patients.

Conclusion: With the results of this study, it can be concluded that there is no significant difference in the salivary levels of resistin in healthy individuals and individuals diagnosed with oral pre-malignant lesion.
Vegetative Propagation of Himatanthus sucuuba (Spruce ex Müll. Arg.) Woodson by Stem Cuttings
Authors: Vasconcelos Rayssa Gomes , Medeiros Raquel da Silva , Silva Daniel da , Sampaio Paulo de Tarso Barbosa
Published: March 2020

The vegetative propagation by cuttings can be an advantageous alternative to the production of Himatanthus sucuuba seedlings because it allows the obtention of a large number of plants genetically identical to the matrix plant in a shorter time and space. However, such a technique is simultaneously influenced by different factors that can compromise its success. In this sense, the present study aimed to evaluate the effect of different types of cuttings and indole-3-butyric acid (IBA) concentration, on the survival and rooting of cuttings of H. sucuuba. The experimental design used was in randomized complete blocks, with a factorial arrangement: 2 types of cuttings (with and without leaves) and 3 concentrations of IBA (0, 1000 and 3000 mg L–1). After 100 days, were evaluated the following variables: survival (%), rooting (%), number of roots per cutting, length of the largest root (cm), number of leaves and dry biomass. The data were subjected to analysis of variance (ANOVA) and means compared by Tukey’s test at p < 0.05. The survival and rooting percentages were higher than 70% in all treatments. There was no significance for the interaction of the factors analyzed, neither for the effect of AIB, analyzed in isolation. The type of stake exerted the greatest influence, with emphasis on the cuttings with leaves, which stood out in most of the factors analyzed. The propagation of H. sucuuba to cuttings was considered viable, and the maintenance of the leaves, associated with juvenility of the propagules, was determining factors in the conditions in which this study was developed.
Determinants of Capital Adequacy among the Commercial Banks in Ghana
Authors: Annor Ernest Somuah , Obeng Fredrick Somuah , Nti Nelly Opoku
Published: March 2020

The study examined the determinants of capital adequacy among selected commercial banks in Ghana. Eight banks were sampled for the periods 2009-2016, secondary data was gathered from the annual reports of selected banks as well as the Ghana Banking Survey authored by Price Waterhouse Coopers Ghana (PWC). A balanced panel approach was employed in investigating the determinants of capital adequacy among selected commercial banks in Ghana whilst comparing estimates of pooled OLS, random and fixed effects models and the generalized least square models to ascertain the robustness of the model. The finding suggests that all the independent variables statistically and significantly influence capital adequacy. While non-performing loans negatively relate to CAR, LFTD and ROA positively impact CAR or asset quality. It is recommended that the central bank and various banks operating in Ghana pay attention to strict compliance with the regulatory regimes to keep banks sound and fit to withstand distress and losses which may, in turn, affect the banking system and economy in entirety.
Partial Purification and Characterization of Albain 1, a Triterpene with Antimicrobial Activity, from the Wood Extract of Avicennia alba Blume
Authors: Choudhury Moumita , Mukherjee Kalishankar , De Arnab , Samanta Amalesh , Roy Amit
Published: March 2020

Secondary metabolites of plants are important resources for development of new drugs. Mangrove plants are very well known sources of wide variety of secondary metabolites. Many of these secondary metabolites from mangroves have been found to possess significant biological activities where human health is concerned. Avicennia alba Blume is one such mangrove plant with reports of having many such secondary metabolites of clinical and commercial interests.

Aim: To evaluate antimicrobial activity potential of A. alba wood extract and to isolate new bioactive constituent(s) responsible for such biological activity.

Methodology: Preliminary screenings of antimicrobial activities in different organic solvent extracts of A. alba wood tissue were done by TLC-bioautography method and phytochemical nature of the antimicrobial constituent(s) in the extracts have been studied. One compound exhibiting significant antimicrobial activity, named as Albain 1, has been isolated. MIC value has been determined for Albain 1. The purity and structure of Albain 1 have been determined by HPLC, 1H NMR, FTIR and HRMS etc. analysis.

Results: 1H NMR, FTIR and HRMS analysis have found out that the isolated compound Albain 1 is a triterpene and the molecular formula is C30H48O4. It has exhibited remarkable antimicrobial activity against Bacillus cereus, Bacillus polymyxa, Bacillus pumilas (MIC 125 μg / ml).

Conclusion: The observed antimicrobial activity of the isolated fraction of A. alba offer great potentials in pharmaceutical industries.
Detergency and Detergents
Authors: Nagy Andras , Theiner Eric
Published: March 2020

This article gives details on the mechanisms of detergency, and the factors influencing detergency. Components of a detergent consist of surfactants, builders (inorganic and organic materials added to the formula to enhance detergency), bleaching agents, enzymes, antimicrobial agents, and so on. A meaningful discussion of detergency requires a definition of clean and methods of determining detergency and cleaning are described. Detergent manufacturing processes are considered and descriptions of production for spray‐dried products, non‐tower applications, agglomeration, and tableting are discussed. Health and safety, as well as environmental impacts, are considered, although surfactants and detergent products are the most widely used consumable products. Under most conditions, detergents are not hazardous to their users. Product types are listed.
Targeting Hippo coactivator YAP1 through BET bromodomain inhibition in esophageal adenocarcinoma
Authors: Song Shumei , Li Yuan , Xu Yan , Ma Lang , Pool Pizzi Melissa , Jin Jiankang , Scott Ailing W , Huo Longfei , Wang Ying , Lee Jeffrey H. , Bhutani Manoop S. , Weston Brian , Shanbhag Namita D , Johnson Randy L. , Ajani Jaffer A.
Published: March 2020

Hippo/YAP1 signaling is a major regulator of organ size, cancer stemness, and aggressive phenotype. Thus, targeting YAP1 may provide a novel therapeutic strategy for tumors with high YAP1 expression in esophageal cancer (EC). Chromatin immunoprecipitation (ChiP) and quantitative ChiP‐PCR were used to determine the regulation of the chromatin remodeling protein bromodomain‐containing protein 4 (BRD4) on YAP1. The role of the bromodomain and extraterminal motif (BET) inhibitor JQ1, an established BRD4 inhibitor, on inhibition of YAP1 in EC cells was dissected using western blot, immunofluorescence, qPCR, and transient transfection. The antitumor activities of BET inhibitor were further examined by variety of functional assays, cell proliferation (MTS), tumorsphere, and ALDH1+ labeling in vitro and in vivo. Here, we show that BRD4 regulates YAP1 expression and transcription. ChiP assays revealed that BRD4 directly occupies YAP1 promoter and that JQ1 robustly blocks BRD4 binding to the YAP1 promoter. Consequently, JQ1 strongly suppresses constitutive or induced YAP1 expression and transcription in EC cells and YAP1/Tead downstream transcriptional activity. Intriguingly, radiation‐resistant cells that acquire strong cancer stem cell traits and an aggressive phenotype can be effectively suppressed by JQ1 as assessed by cell proliferation, tumorsphere formation, and reduction in the ALDH1+ cells. Moreover, effects of JQ1 are synergistically amplified by the addition of docetaxel in vitro and in vivo. Our results demonstrate that BRD4 is a critical regulator of Hippo/YAP1 signaling and that BRD4 inhibitor JQ1 represents a new class of inhibitor of Hippo/YAP1 signaling, primarily targeting YAP1 high and therapy‐resistant cancer cells enriched with cancer stem cell properties.
Biochemical and structural characterization of a thermostable Dps protein with His‐type ferroxidase centers and outer metal‐binding sites
Authors: Minato Takuo , Teramoto Takamasa , Kakuta Yoshimitsu , Ogo Seiji , Yoon Ki‐Seok
Published: March 2020

The DNA‐binding protein from starved cells (Dps) is found in a wide range of microorganisms, and it has been well characterized. However, little is known about Dps proteins from nonheterocystous filamentous cyanobacteria. In this study, a Dps protein from the thermophilic nonheterocystous filamentous cyanobacterium Thermoleptolyngbya sp. O‐77 (TlDps1) was purified and characterized. PAGE and CD analyses of TlDps1 demonstrated that it had higher thermostability than previously reported Dps proteins. X‐ray crystallographic analysis revealed that TlDps1 possessed His‐type ferroxidase centers within the cavity and unique metal‐binding sites located on the surface of the protein, which presumably contributed to its exceedingly high thermostability.
Frankiaceae
Authors: Normand Philippe , Fernandez Maria P.
Published: March 2020

Fran.ki.a.ce'ae. N.L. fem. n.Frankiatype genus of the family; suff. ‐aceaeending to denote a family; N.L. fem. pl. n.FrankiaceaetheFrankiafamily.

Actinobacteria / Actinobacteria / Frankiales / Frankiaceae

A group of slow‐growing aerobic to microaerophilic soil‐inhabiting mesophilic, mostly nitrogen‐fixing, organisms in symbiosis with pioneer plants belonging to three orders and more than 20 genera of dicots. Some lineages do not have the ability to establish symbiosis with plants and do not fix nitrogen. The position of the family has fluctuated markedly in the various taxonomical treatments that differed on the approach used, but they now consist of the genusFrankiaalone placed at the root of the aerobicActinobacteria.

DNA G + C content (mol%): 67.90–72.80 (Normand and Fernandez, genusFrankia, this issue).

Type genus:FrankiaBrunchorst 1886AL.
Methanococcoides
Authors: L'Haridon Stéphane , Toffin Laurent , Roussel Erwan
Published: March 2020

Me.tha.no.coc.co'i.des. Gr. adj. suff. ‐
oides
similar to; N.L. neut. n.
Methanococcoides
organism similar to
Methanococcus
.

Euryarchaeota / Methanomicrobia / Methanosarcinales / Methanosarcinaceae / Methanococcoides

The genus
Methanococcoides
comprises four species,
Methanococcoides methylutens, Methanococcoides burtonii
,
Methanococcoides alaskense
, and
Methanococcoides vulcani
. Cells are irregular cocci, 0.5–3 μm in diameter, occurring singly or in pairs, and may be motile. Clumps of cells can also observed. Cells exhibit a blue‐green autofluorescence under UV illumination. The cell wall consists of a very thin protein S‐layer, approximately 10‐nm thick. Susceptible to lysis by hypotonic or detergent shock.
Eurypsychrophilic to mesophilic
.
Strict anaerobe
.
Neutrophilic
.
Halophilic
, optimal salinity near seawater. Cells can dismutate methylamines, methanol, glycine betaine, choline, tetramethylammonium, dimethyl sulfide, methyliodide, and
N
,
N
‐dimethylethanolamine for growth, but cannot catabolize acetate, dimethylsulfide, H
2
/CO
2
, or formate.
Methanococcoides
spp. are members of the phylum
Euryarchaeota
, class
Methanomicrobia
, order
Methanosarcinales
, and family
Methanosarcinaceae
. Known habitats are deep‐sea mud volcano, marine anoxic sediment, hypolimnion Ace Lake, mangrove swamp, deep hypersaline anoxic basin, and hydrothermal vents.

DNA G + C content (mol%)
: 40.8–44.

Type species
:
Methanococcoides methylutens
Sowers and Ferry 1983, VL17.
A phantom based evaluation of the dose prediction and effects in treatment plans, when calculating on a direct density CT reconstruction
Authors: Flatten Veronika , Friedrich Alexandra , Engenhart‐Cabillic Rita , Zink Klemens
Published: March 2020

In radiation therapy, a Computed Tomography (CT) image is needed for an accurate dose calculation. To allow such a calculation, the CT image values have to be converted into relative electron densities. Thus, standard procedure is to calibrate the CT numbers to relative electron density (RED) by using a phantom with known composition inserts. This calibration curve is energy and CT dependent, therefore most radiotherapy CT acquisitions are obtained with 120 kVp, as each tube voltage needs an additional calibration curve. The commercially available DirectDensityTM (DD) reconstruction algorithm presents a reconstruction implementation without any dependence on the tube voltage. In comparison, it allows a calibration curve that is directly proportional to the RED, reducing the need of more than one calibration curve. This could potentially optimize CT acquisitions and reducing the dose given to the patient. Three different phantoms were used to evaluate the DirectDensityTM algorithm in simple and anthropomorphic geometries, as well as setups with metal implants. Scans with the DD algorithm were performed for 80, 100, 120, and 140 kVp. As reference a scan with the standard 120 kVp scan was used. Radiotherapy photon plans were optimized and calculated on the reference image and then transferred to the DD images, where they were recalculated. The dose distributions obtained this way were compared to the reference dose. Differences were found mainly in pure air and high density materials such as bones. The difference of the mean dose was below 0.7%, in most cases below 0.4%. No indication was found that the algorithm is corrupted by metal inserts, enabling the application for all clinical cases. This algorithm offers more variability in CT parameters for radiation therapy and thus a more personalized image acquisition with a high image quality and a lower dose exposure at a robust clinical workflow.
pH‐Responsive Catalytic Janus Motors with Autonomous Navigation and Cargo‐Release Functions
Authors: Archer Richard A. , Howse Johnathan R. , Fujii Syuji , Kawashima Hisato , Buxton Gavin A. , Ebbens Stephen J.
Published: March 2020

The fabrication of multifunctional polymeric Janus colloids that display catalytically driven propulsion, change their size in response to local variations in pH, and vary cargo release rate is demonstrated. Systematic investigation of the colloidal trajectories reveals that in acidic environments the propulsion velocity reduces dramatically due to colloid swelling. This leads to a chemotaxis‐like accumulation for ensembles of these responsive particles in low‐pH regions. In synergy with this chemically defined accumulation, the colloids also show an enhancement in the release rate of an encapsulated cargo molecule. Together, these effects result in a strategy to harness catalytic propulsion for combined autonomous transport and cargo release directed by a chemical stimulus, displaying a greater than 30 times local cargo‐accumulation enhancement. Lactic acid can be used as the stimulus for this behavior, an acid produced by some tumors, suggesting possible eventual utility as a drug‐delivery method. Applications for microfluidic transport are also discussed.
Over 15% Efficiency Polymer Solar Cells Enabled by Conformation Tuning of Newly Designed Asymmetric Small‐Molecule Acceptors
Authors: Guo Qing , Ma Ruijie , Hu Jun , Wang Zaiyu , Sun Huiliang , Dong Xingliang , Luo Zhenghui , Liu Tao , Guo Xia , Guo Xugang , Yan He , Liu Feng , Zhang Maojie
Published: March 2020

The prosperous period of polymer solar cells (PSCs) has witnessed great progress in molecule design methods to promote power conversion efficiency (PCE). Designing asymmetric structures has been proved effective in tuning energy level and morphology, which has drawn strong attention from the PSC community. Two hepta‐ring and octa‐ring asymmetric small molecular acceptors (SMAs) (IDTP‐4F and IDTTP‐4F) with S‐shape and C‐shape confirmations are developed to study the relationship between conformation shapes and PSC efficiencies. The similarity of absorption and energy levels between two SMAs makes the conformation a single variable. Additionally, three wide‐bandgap polymer donors (PM6, S1, and PM7) are chosen to prove the universality of the relationship between conformation and photovoltaic performance. Consequently, the champion PCE afforded by PM7: IDTP‐4F is as high as 15.2% while that of PM7: IDTTP‐4F is 13.8%. Moreover, the S‐shape IDTP‐4F performs obviously better than their IDTTP‐4F counterparts in PSCs regardless of the polymer donors, which confirms that S‐shape conformation performs better than the C‐shape one. This work provides an insight into how conformations of asymmetric SMAs affect PCEs, specific functions of utilizing different polymer donors to finely tune the active‐layer morphology and another possibility to reach an excellent PCE over 15%.
Stable Dispersed Zeolitic Imidazolate Framework/Graphene Oxide Nanocomposites in Ionic Liquids Resulting in High Lubricating Performance
Authors: Mu Liwen , Cao Danyang , Zhuang Wei , Yu Qiangliang , Cai Meirong , Shi Yijun
Published: March 2020

The “block‐on‐plate” nanocomposite structure material is realized with the zeolitic imidazolate framework (ZIF‐67) on graphene oxide (GO) with surface oxygen‐rich functional groups. Scanning electron microscopy, X‐ray photoelectron spectroscopy, X‐ray diffractograms, fourier transform infrared spectroscopy, and ZIF‐67/GO demonstrate a high capability of promoting the lubricating performance of [Choline][Proline] ([CH][P]) bio‐ionic liquid. Specifically, the wear volume of the disc by [CH][P]‐0.1 ZIF‐67/GO is only 52% of the one lubricated by pure [CH][P]. Moreover, ZIF‐67/GO shows a long time, high dispersion stability in [CH][P]. In addition, the combination of GO nanosheets and ZIF‐67 can make ZIF‐67/GO have better polishing effect between the steels during the friction process, which can effectively form a robust lubrication layer and improves overall lubricating properties. As a result, the interfacial lubrication can be significantly improved by these newly developed [CH][P]‐ZIF‐67/GO lubricants. This work offers a new promising application for ZIF‐67 nanocomposites with GO in advanced lubrication systems. This work also provides a new strategy of producing lubricants containing nanoparticles with high dispersion stability, which may solve the biggest challenge in this field.
Enhancing Piezoresistive Pressure Response Device Sensitivity by Orders of Magnitude
Authors: Wang Chang‐Ming , Hsieh Chia‐Han , Liao Wei‐Ssu
Published: March 2020

A bulk material electrode interfacing approach capable of enhancing the sensitivity of piezoresistive pressure sensors with magnitude orders is presented. Metal copper microwires are emplaced between the bulk conductive substrate and an electrode connecting it to the external circuit, replacing commonly used silver paste. These microwires create gaps on the interface between the two materials and increase the initial system resistance. As the applied pressure rises, the contact area between the substrate and microwires increases while the conductive substrate deforms, resulting in overall resistance reduction. With an appropriate setting of microwires, the sensitivity of the piezoresistive pressure sensor can be enhanced up to 106‐fold. The current design is widely adaptable toward different types of materials and allows a pressure operation of up to 931.2 kPa. The results indicate that rather than developing bulk materials, straightforward improvements in the device connecting interface can significantly enhance pressure response sensitivity with magnitude orders.
Wide‐Bandgap Organic Crystals: Enhanced Optical‐to‐Terahertz Nonlinear Frequency Conversion at Near‐Infrared Pumping
Authors: Kim Deokjoong , Kim Won Tae , Han Jae‐Hyun , Lee Ji‐Ah , Lee Seung‐Heon , Kang Bong Joo , Jazbinsek Mojca , Yoon Woojin , Yun Hoseop , Kim Dongwook , van Bezouw Stein , Campo Jochen , Wenseleers Wim , Rotermund Fabian , Kwon O‐Pil
Published: March 2020

Enhanced terahertz (THz) wave generation is demonstrated in nonlinear organic crystals through refractive index engineering, which improves phase matching characteristics substantially. Unlike conventional low‐bandgap nonlinear organic crystals, the newly designed benzimidazolium‐based HMI (2‐(4‐hydroxy‐3‐methoxystyryl)‐1,3‐dimethyl‐1H‐benzoimidazol‐3‐ium) chromophore possesses a relatively wide bandgap. This reduces the optical group index in the near‐infrared, allowing better phase matching with the generated THz waves, and leads to high optical‐to‐THz conversion. A unique feature of the HMI‐based crystals, compared to conventional wide‐bandgap aniline‐based crystals, is their remarkably larger macroscopic optical nonlinearity, a one order of magnitude higher diagonal component in macroscopic nonlinear susceptibility than NPP ((1‐(4‐nitrophenyl)pyrrolidin‐2‐yl)methanol) crystals. The HMI‐based crystals also exhibit much higher thermal stability, with a melting temperature Tm above 250 °C, versus aniline‐based crystals (116 °C for NPP). With pumping at the technologically important wavelength of 800 nm, the proposed HMI‐based crystals boost high optical‐to‐THz conversion efficiency, comparable to benchmark low‐bandgap quinolinium crystals with state‐of‐the‐art macroscopic nonlinearity. This performance is due to the excellent phase matching enabled by decreasing optical group indices in the near‐infrared through wide‐bandgap chromophores. The proposed wide‐bandgap design is a promising way to control the refractive index of various nonlinear organic materials for enhanced frequency conversion processes.
Simultaneous Full‐Color Printing and Holography Enabled by Centimeter‐Scale Plasmonic Metasurfaces
Authors: Zhang Fei , Pu Mingbo , Gao Ping , Jin Jinjin , Li Xiong , Guo Yinghui , Ma Xiaoliang , Luo Jun , Yu Honglin , Luo Xiangang
Published: March 2020

Optical metasurfaces enable novel ways to locally manipulate light's amplitude, phase, and polarization, underpinning a newly viable technology for applications, such as high‐density optical storage, holography, and displays. Here, a high‐security‐level platform enabled by centimeter‐scale plasmonic metasurfaces with full‐color, high‐purity, and enhanced‐information‐capacity properties is proposed. Multiple types of independent information can be embedded into a single metamark using full parameters of light, including amplitude, phase, and polarization. Under incoherent white light, the metamark appears as a polarization‐ and angle‐encoded full‐color image with flexibly controlled hue, saturation, and brightness, while switching to multiwavelength holograms under coherent laser illumination. More importantly, for actual applications, the extremely shallow functional layer makes such centimeter‐scale plasmonic metamarks suitable for cost‐effective mass production processes. Considering these superior performances of the presented multifunctional plasmonic metasurfaces, this work may find wide applications in anticounterfeiting, information security, high‐density optical storage, and so forth.
Ultralow Power Wearable Heterosynapse with Photoelectric Synergistic Modulation
Authors: Wang Tian‐Yu , Meng Jia‐Lin , He Zhen‐Yu , Chen Lin , Zhu Hao , Sun Qing‐Qing , Ding Shi‐Jin , Zhou Peng , Zhang David Wei
Published: March 2020

Although the energy consumption of reported neuromorphic computing devices inspired by biological systems has become lower than traditional memory, it still remains greater than bio‐synapses (≈10 fJ per spike). Herein, a flexible MoS2‐based heterosynapse is designed with two modulation modes, an electronic mode and a photoexcited mode. A one‐step mechanical exfoliation method on flexible substrate and low‐temperature atomic layer deposition process compatible with flexible electronics are developed for fabricating wearable heterosynapses. With a pre‐spike of 100 ns, the synaptic device exhibits ultralow energy consumption of 18.3 aJ per spike in long‐term potentiation and 28.9 aJ per spike in long‐term depression. The ultrafast speed and ultralow power consumption provide a path for a neuromorphic computing system owning more excellent processing ability than the human brain. By adding optical modulation, a modulatory synapse is constructed to dynamically control correlations between pre‐ and post‐synapses and realize complex global neuromodulations. The novel wearable heterosynapse expands the accessible range of synaptic weights (ratio of facilitation ≈228%), providing an insight into the application of wearable 2D highly efficient neuromorphic computing architectures.
Conductive Metal–Organic Frameworks with Extra Metallic Sites as an Efficient Electrocatalyst for the Hydrogen Evolution Reaction
Authors: Huang Hao , Zhao Yue , Bai Yimin , Li Fumin , Zhang Ying , Chen Yu
Published: March 2020

The 2D conductive metal–organic frameworks (MOFs) are expected to be an ideal electrocatalyst due to their high utilization of metal atoms. Exploring a new conjugated ligand with extra active metallic center can further boost the structural advantages of conductive MOFs. In this work, hexaiminohexaazatrinaphthalene (HAHATN) is employed as a conjugated ligand to construct bimetallic sited conductive MOFs (M23(M13∙HAHATN)2) with an extra M–N2 moiety. Density functional theory (DFT) calculations demonstrate that the 2D conjugated framework renders M23(M13∙HAHATN)2 a high electric conductivity with narrow bandgap (0.19 eV) for electron transfer and a favorable in‐plane porous structure (2.7 nm) for mass transfer. Moreover, the metal atom at the extra M–N2 moiety has a higher unsaturation degree than that at M–N4 linkage, resulting in a stronger ability to donate electrons for enhancing electroactivity. These characteristics endow the new conductive MOFs with an enhanced electroactivity for hydrogen evolution reaction (HER) electrocatalysis. Among the series of M23(M13∙HAHATN)2 MOF, Ni3(Ni3∙HAHATN)2 nanosheets with the optimal structure exhibit a small overpotential of 115 mV at 10 mA cm−2, low Tafel slope of (45.6 mV dec−1), and promising electrocatalytic stability for HER. This work provides an effective strategy for designing conductive MOFs with a favorable structure for electrocatalysis.
Dual‐Enhanced Doping in ReSe2 for Efficiently Photoenhanced Hydrogen Evolution Reaction
Authors: Wang Ran , Han Jiecai , Xu Ping , Gao Tangling , Zhong Jun , Wang Xianjie , Zhang Xinghong , Li Zhijun , Xu Lingling , Song Bo
Published: March 2020

Rhenium dichalcogenides (ReX2, X = S or Se) are catalysts that have great promise for the photoenhanced hydrogen evolution reaction (PE‐HER) because of their unique physiochemical properties. However, the catalytic performance is still restricted by their low concentration of electrocatalytic activity sites and poor injection of hot electrons. Herein, dual‐enhancement in ReSe2 nanosheets (NSs) with high concentration of active sites and efficient use of hot electrons is simultaneously achieved with moderate Mo doping. Contributions from exposed catalytically active sites, improved electrical conductivity, and enhanced solar spectral response are systematically investigated. Superior PE‐HER catalytical performance is obtained in Re0.94Mo0.06Se2, which has more catalytically active sites and optimized band structure than other Re1−xMoxSe2 samples. Here, it is demonstrated that only doping can reduce the overpotential (η10) from 239 to 174 mV at −10 mA cm−2 (Δ1η10 = 65 mV). Then, η10 is further improved to 137 mV under simulated AM 1.5 sun illumination (Δ2η10 = 37 mV). The total improvement (Δη10) toward PE‐HER is 102 mV (Δ1η10 + Δ2η10 = 102 mV) in optimal Re0.94Mo0.06Se2. This work presents a new perspective for researching high‐efficiency photoenhanced HER ReSe2‐based electrocatalysts and other layered transition metal dichalcogenides.
Interface Engineering of Hierarchical Branched Mo‐Doped Ni3S2/NixPy Hollow Heterostructure Nanorods for Efficient Overall Water Splitting
Authors: Luo Xu , Ji Pengxia , Wang Pengyan , Cheng Ruilin , Chen Ding , Lin Can , Zhang Jianan , He Jianwei , Shi Zuhao , Li Neng , Xiao Shengqiang , Mu Shichun
Published: March 2020

Rational design and construction of bifunctional electrocatalysts with excellent activity and durability is imperative for water splitting. Herein, a novel top‐down strategy to realize a hierarchical branched Mo‐doped sulfide/phosphide heterostructure (Mo‐Ni3S2/NixPy hollow nanorods), by partially phosphating Mo‐Ni3S2/NF flower clusters, is proposed. Benefitting from the optimized electronic structure configuration, hierarchical branched hollow nanorod structure, and abundant heterogeneous interfaces, the as‐obtained multisite Mo‐Ni3S2/NixPy/NF electrode has remarkable stability and bifunctional electrocatalytic activity in the hydrogen evolution reaction (HER)/oxygen evolution reaction (OER) in 1 m KOH solutions. It possesses an extremely low overpotential of 238 mV at the current density of 50 mA cm−2 for OER. Importantly, when assembled as anode and cathode simultaneously, it merely requires an ultralow cell voltage of 1.46 V to achieve the current density of 10 mA cm−2, with excellent durability for over 72 h, outperforming most of the reported Ni‐based bifunctional materials. Density functional theory results further confirm that the doped heterostructure can synergistically optimize Gibbs free energies of H and O‐containing intermediates (OH*, O*, and OOH*) during HER and OER processes, thus accelerating the catalytic kinetics of electrochemical water splitting. This work demonstrates the importance of the rational combination of metal doping and interface engineering for advanced catalytic materials.
Nexus between drinking patterns, gender and life satisfaction: Some evidence from Indigenous Australians
Authors: Selvanathan Eliyathamby A. , Selvanathan Saroja , Jayasinghe Maneka
Published: March 2020

Excessive alcohol consumption results in a broad range of health problems and other social issues, such as violence, social disorder and family breakdown. As such, alcohol consumption is considered as a critical social policy issue in Australia. In this study, we have used ordered logit models to estimate the probability of an Indigenous person consuming alcohol and to assess the impact of alcohol consumption on self‐perceived life satisfaction. A heteroscedasticity‐corrected ordered logit model is used to identify the gender difference in such effects. For this purpose, we use the latest National Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander Social Survey (NATSISS) 2014/2015 data collected by the Australian Bureau of Statistics. The estimation results reveal that age, gender, employment status, income and the experience of unfair treatments significantly affect Indigenous people's (level of) alcohol consumption. The results also reveal that any level of alcohol consumption is linked with reduced overall life satisfaction, which is another reason why prevention of alcohol misuse should be a priority. A significant gender differences in the medium‐risk‐level alcohol consumption were also observed. These findings could be used as an alcohol prevention message in developing and implementing alcohol prevention strategies and policies.
The use of veno‐venous extracorporeal membrane oxygenation for massive hemoptysis following a traumatic lung injury: a case report
Authors: Sugiyama Takuya , Ishida Tokiya , Yokoyama Hideyuki , Kumada Yoshibumi , Shinohara Kazuaki
Published: March 2020

Background

Published reports regarding the use of veno‐venous extracorporeal membrane oxygenation (V‐V ECMO) for massive hemoptysis following a thoracic injury are still scarce.

Case Presentation

A 34‐year‐old man developed massive hemoptysis from the right lung after a 2 m fall and being compressed with an iron pipe weighing 500 kg. He was immediately intubated using a double‐lumen tube, and one‐lung ventilation was started. Endotracheal hemorrhage was controlled by sealing the right lumen. V‐V ECMO was initiated to endure the lethal hypoxemia while waiting for the right lung to heal. He came off of V‐V ECMO after 17 days and was discharged on foot on day 46.

Conclusion

The strategy of using V‐V ECMO in combination with one‐lung ventilation is useful and should be strongly considered to save lethal massive hemoptysis cases following traumatic lung injury.
General Quantum Entanglement Purification Protocol using a Controlled‐Phase‐Flip Gate
Authors: Lu Lu‐Cong , Ren Bao‐Cang , Wang Xin , Zhang Mei , Deng Fu‐Guo
Published: March 2020

Entanglement purification is an important method to guarantee the fidelity of long‐distance quantum communication. Here, a general entanglement purification protocol (EPP) for mixed state with bit‐flip error and phase‐flip error is proposed, resorting to unilateral operations and a controlled‐phase‐flip (CPF) gate. The CPF gate is working with a high fidelity under balance condition of quantum dot embedded in a double‐sided optical cavity. This general EPP scheme can purify the mixed state with both bit‐flip error and phase‐flip error to a high fidelity entangled state relatively fast in some regimes, owing to the unilateral operations and high‐fidelity CPF gate, which can largely decrease the resource consumption. This general EPP provides a convenient way for increasing the entanglement of different quantum systems, which has great potential for guaranteeing the fidelity of long‐distance quantum communication in the future.
Perspektiven gekoppelter organisch‐anorganischer Nanostrukturen für Ladungs‐ und Energietransferanwendungen
Authors: Steiner Anja Maria , Lissel Franziska , Fery Andreas , Lauth Jannika , Scheele Marcus
Published: March 2020

Dieser Aufsatz befasst sich mit dem Bereich der organisch‐anorganischen Nanokomposite, wobei der Schwerpunkt auf Materialien liegt, die einen signifikanten Grad elektronischer Kopplung über die Hybridgrenzfläche aufweisen. Diese Nanokomposite durchlaufen verschiedenste Ladungs‐ und Energietransferprozesse und ermöglichen optoelektronische Anwendungen in Bauelementen, welche auf der Nutzung von Singulettspaltung, der Gewinnung von Triplett‐Exzitonen, der Photonen‐Aufwärtskonvertierung oder dem Transfer heißer Ladungsträger beruhen. Wir diskutieren die physikalische Chemie der gängigsten organischen und anorganischen Komponenten. Ausgehend davon entwickeln wir Synthese‐ und Assemblierungsstrategien sowie Designkriterien auf Material‐ und Bauelementebene, mit Hinblick auf Photovoltaik, Spin‐Speicher und optischen Hochkonvertern. Die vorgestellten Ergebnisse legen nahe, dass die zukünftige Forschung auf diesem Gebiet auf ein besseres Verständnis des Bindungsmotivs und der molekularen Orientierung an der Hybridgrenzfläche ausgerichtet werden sollte.
Non‐Covalent Interactions Enable the Length‐Controlled Generation of Discrete Tubes Capable of Guest Exchange
Authors: Fa Shixin , Sakata Yoko , Akine Shigehisa , Ogoshi Tomoki
Published: March 2020

Supramolecular chemistry in confined spaces constructed from macrocyclic molecules has attracted much attention because it can utilize the specific binding properties of macrocyclic cavities. Herein we report the preparation of length‐controlled discrete tubular structures by homo‐/co‐assembly of rim‐differentiated and peralkylamino‐substituted pillar[5]arenes via hydrogen bonds and salt bridges. By dimerization and trimerization, the expanded tubes show a fivefold helical structure and stepwise binding, respectively. We found that the exchange speed of guest molecules in the tubes could be controlled by varying the tube length.
Chiral Phosphoric Acid Dual‐Function Catalysis: Asymmetric Allylation with α‐Vinyl Allylboron Reagents
Authors: Gao Shang , Duan Meng , Houk Kendall N. , Chen Ming
Published: March 2020

We report a dual function asymmetric catalysis by a chiral phosphoric acid catalyst that controls both enantioselective addition of an achiral α‐vinyl allylboronate to aldehydes and pseudo‐axial orientation of the α‐vinyl group in the transition state. The reaction produces dienyl homoallylic alcohols with high Z‐selectivities and enantioselectivities. Computational studies revealed that minimization of steric interactions between the alkyl groups of the diol on boron and the chiral phosphoric acid catalyst influence the orientation of α‐vinyl substituent of the allylboronate reagent to occupy a pseudo‐axial position in the transition state.
Stepwise Assembly of Turn‐on Fluorescence Sensors in Multicomponent Metal–Organic Frameworks for in Vitro Cyanide Detection
Authors: Li Jialuo , Yuan Shuai , Qin Jun‐Sheng , Pang Jiandong , Zhang Peng , Zhang Yingmu , Huang Yanyan , Drake Hannah F. , Liu Wenshe R. , Zhou Hong‐Cai
Published: March 2020

The controlled synthesis of multicomponent metal–organic frameworks (MOFs) allows for the precise placement of multiple cooperative functional groups within a framework, leading to emergent synergistic effects. Herein, we demonstrate that turn‐on fluorescence sensors can be assembled by combining a fluorophore and a recognition moiety within a complex cavity of a multicomponent MOF. An anthracene‐based fluorescent linker and a hemicyanine‐containing CN−‐responsive linker were sequentially installed into the lattice of PCN‐700. The selective binding of CN− to hemicyanine inhibited the energy transfer between the two moieties, resulting in a fluorescence turn‐on effect. Taking advantage of the high tunability of the MOF platform, the ratio between anthracene and the hemicyanine moiety could be fine‐tuned in order to maximize the sensitivity of the overall framework. The optimized MOF‐sensor had a CN−‐detection limit of 0.05 μm, which is much lower than traditional CN− fluorescent sensors (about 0.2 μm).
An Adjustable‐Porosity Plastic Crystal Electrolyte Enables High‐Performance All‐Solid‐State Lithium‐Oxygen Batteries
Authors: Wang Jin , Huang Gang , Chen Kai , Zhang Xin‐Bo
Published: March 2020

The limited triple‐phase boundaries (TPBs) in solid‐state cathodes (SSCs) and high resistance imposed by solid electrolytes (SEs) make the achievement of high‐performance all‐solid‐state lithium‐oxygen (ASS Li‐O2) batteries a challenge. Herein, an adjustable‐porosity plastic crystal electrolyte (PCE) has been fabricated by employing a thermally induced phase separation (TIPS) technique to overcome the above tricky issues. The SSC produced through the in‐situ introduction of the porous PCE on the surface of the active material, facilitates the simultaneous transfer of Li+/e−, as well as ensures fast flow of O2, forming continuous and abundant TPBs. The high Li+ conductivity, softness, and adhesion of the dense PCE significantly reduce the battery resistance to 115 Ω. As a result, the ASS Li‐O2 battery based on this adjustable‐porosity PCE exhibits superior performances with high specific capacity (5963 mAh g−1), good rate capability, and stable cycling life up to 130 cycles at 32 °C. This novel design and exciting results could open a new avenue for ASS Li‐O2 batteries.
Unconventional Secondary Structure Mimics: Ladder‐Rungs
Authors: Lin Chen‐Ming , Arancillo Maritess , Whisenant Jonathan , Burgess Kevin
Published: March 2020

Secondary structures tend to be recognizable because they have repeating structural motifs, but mimicry of these does not have to follow such well‐defined patterns. Bioinformatics studies to match side‐chain orientations of a novel hydantoin triazole chemotype (1) to protein‐protein interfaces revealed it tends to align well across parallel and antiparallel sheets, like rungs on a ladder. One set of these overlays was observed for the protein‐protein interaction uPA⋅uPAR. Consequently, chemotype 1 was made with appropriate side‐chains to mimic uPA at this interface. Biophysical assays indicate these compounds did in fact bind uPAR, and elicit cellular responses that affected invasion, migration, and wound healing.
Habla Mi Idioma? An Exploratory Review of Working Systemically with People from Diverse Cultures: An Australian Perspective
Authors: Amorin‐Woods Deisy
Published: March 2020

This paper presents a review of the literature informed by both grounded theory and phenomenology, which explores how culture is addressed in the family therapy field with particular emphasis on Australia. The primary aim of the study is to identify the issues and relevant publications that can inform and guide Australian family therapists in working with clients from culturally and linguistically diverse backgrounds. The secondary aim is to provide recommendations that may inform research directions and clinical practice. The results indicate that this challenge is not unique to Australia; indeed the issue is ubiquitous across the Western world. This paper attempts to provide an impetus for future dialogue and to precipitate discussion around the development of a culturally sensitive approach in the Australian family therapy field.
Investigation of novel intumescent flame retardant low‐density polyethylene based on SiO2@MAPP and double pentaerythritol
Authors: Xu Jiacheng , Ou Hongxiang , Shan Xueying , Liu Ben , Jiang Juncheng , Xu Guoguang
Published: March 2020

To improve the flame‐retardant property of low‐density polyethylene (LDPE) composites, a novel intumescent flame retardant (IFR) consisting of ammonium polyphosphate (APP) covered by silicon dioxide and 3‐(Methylacryloxyl) propyltrimethoxy silane (KH‐570) (SiO2@MAPP) and double pentaerythritol (DPER) was synthesized. Various methods were applied to structural characterization and property investigations of different samples. The results indicated that the solubility of APP decreased after coating with silicon dioxide (SiO2) and KH‐570. The flame retardancy of LDPE composites was improved with addition of IFR containing SiO2@MAPP/DPER. With 30 wt% addition of IFR containing SiO2@MAPP /DPER, the limiting oxygen index reached 26.8% and the tensile strength was 3.30 MPa. The tensile strength was 7.14% higher than that of 30 wt% IFR without SiO2@MAPP. The smoke density test showed that the flue gas emission was obviously improved. The addition of SiO2@MAPP effectively increased the residual carbon content of composites and thermal stability of the composites.
In‐Situ Fabrication of Bone‐Like CoSe2 Nano‐Thorn Loaded on Porous Carbon Cloth as a Flexible Electrode for Na‐Ion Storage
Authors: Guo Huinan , Liu Guishu , Wang Mengying , Zhang Yan , Li Weiqin , Chen Kai , Liu Yafei , Yue Mengyuan , Wang Yijing
Published: March 2020

Sodium‐ion batteries (SIBs) based on flexible electrode materials are being investigated recently for improving sluggish kinetics and developing energy density. Transition metal selenides present excellent conductivity and high capacity; nevertheless, their low conductivity and serious volume expansion raise challenging issues of inferior lifespan and capacity fading. Herein, an in‐situ construction method through carbonization and selenide synergistic effect is skillfully designed to synthesize a flexible electrode of bone‐like CoSe2 nano‐thorn coated on porous carbon cloth. The designed flexible CoSe2 electrode with stable structural feature displays enhanced Na‐ion storage capabilities with good rate performance and outstanding cycling stability. As expected, the designed SIBs with flexible BL−CoSe2/PCC electrode display excellent reversible capacity with 360.7 mAh g−1 after 180 cycles at a current density of 0.1 A g−1.
Parents’ educational involvement: Types of resources and forms of involvement in four countries
Authors: Strømme Thea Bertnes , Helland Håvard
Published: March 2020

Parents’ involvement in schooling and education is highly important for children’s results. Still, both levels of involvement and their effects vary according to social class. Previous research on educational reproduction within the family has, however, largely studied differences between the middle and the working class, and generally ignored differences in the composition of cultural and economic capital. In this article, we aim to fill this gap in the literature by separating cultural and economic resources and investigate their correlation with two kinds of parental involvement in four different European countries. Results show that parents with more cultural resources are more likely to be involved by having future educational expectations, and parents with more economic resources are more likely to be involved in their children’s current schooling (e.g. help with homework) than those with more cultural resources. The association between economic resources and involvement in educational expectations is however stronger in Spain and Iceland than in Belgium and Norway, suggesting an influence from system‐level features as well as general economic trends.