bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Mediating role of resilience between learning engagement and professional identity among nursing interns under COVID‐19: A cross‐sectional study
Authors: Lin Yanjuan , Chen Yaqin , Peng Yanchun , Zhang Xuecui , Liao Xiaoqin , Chen Liangwan
Published: March 2023

Aim

The aim of the study was to explore the mediating effect of resilience between learning engagement and professional identity of nursing interns.

Design

A descriptive, cross‐sectional study design.

Methods

An online questionnaire survey was conducted among nursing interns in Fujian Medical University from February 2022 to April 2022 by convenience sampling. The scores of learning engagement, resilience and professional identity were evaluated. The PROCESS Marco in SPSS was used to analyse the mediating effect.

Results

A total of 222 senior nursing students participated in the questionnaire survey. Both learning engagement (r = 0.491, p < 0.01) and resilience (r = 0.537, p < 0.01) correlated positively with PI. Resilience is also positively related to PI (r = 0.693, p < 0.01). Also resilience played a partial mediating role in the relationship between learning engagement and professional identity (a*b = b = 0.2451, 95% CI: 0.1543, 0.3581), and its effect accounted for 53.3%.
A hypothetical intervention of the timing of dietary intake on weight and body composition after initial weight loss
Authors: Elahy Valeria , Jiang Luohua , Lee Sunmin , Odegaard Andrew O.
Published: March 2023

Objective

This study estimated the effect of hypothetical interventions of higher and lower frequency of breakfast and post‐dinner snack consumption (breakfast consumption 0‐4 vs. 5‐7 times/week and post‐dinner snack consumption 0‐2 vs. 3‐7 times/week) on changes in body weight and composition over 18 months after a successful 6‐month standard behavioral weight‐loss program.

Methods

The study analyzed data from the Innovative Approaches to Diet, Exercise and Activity (IDEA) study.

Results

If all participants consumed a breakfast meal 5 to 7 times/week over 18 months, they would have regained 2.95 kg of body weight on average (95% CI: 2.01 to 3.96), which is 0.59 kg (95% CI: −0.86 to −0.32) lower than if all participants consumed breakfast 0 to 4 times/week. If all participants consumed a post‐dinner snack 0 to 2 times/week, they would have regained 2.86 kg of body weight on average (95% CI: 0.99 to 5.25), which is 0.83 kg (95% CI: −1.06 to −0.59) lower than if all consumed a post‐dinner snack 3 to 7 times/week.

Conclusions

Regular breakfast consumption and minimizing post‐dinner snacking may modestly mitigate weight and body fat regain over 18 months after initial weight loss.
Distributed optimal resource allocation with second‐order multi‐Agent systems
Authors: Tian Haibao , Yu Nanxiang , Zhu Wei
Published: March 2023

This paper studies the resource allocation problems with second‐order multi‐agent systems under the constraint of the global network resource. A novel distributed continuous‐time algorithm, which only uses the local information, is proposed. By using matrix transform and differential inequality technique, the exponential convergence is obtained under the undirected and connected graph. To reduce energy consumption and communication costs, a distributed event‐triggered algorithm is designed. It is proved that not only this algorithm converges exponentially to the optimal allocation, but also the event‐triggered time sequence does not exhibit Zeno‐behavior. Finally, numerical examples illustrate the effectiveness of theoretical results.
Development of axially chiral urazole scaffolds for antiplant virus applications againstpotato virus Y
Authors: Jin Jiamiao , Mou Chengli , Zou Juan , Xie Xin , Wang Chen , Shen Tingwei , Deng Youlin , Li Benpeng , Jin Zhichao , Li Xiangyang , Chi Yonggui Robin
Published: March 2023

BACKGROUND

Potato virus Y(PVY) was first discovered by Smith in 1931 and is currently ranked as the fifth most significant plant virus. It can cause severe damage to plants from the familySolanaceae, which results in billions of dollars of economic loss worldwide every year. To discover new antiviral drugs, a class of multifunctional urazole derivatives bearing a stereogenic CN axis were synthesized with excellent optical purities for antiviral evaluations against PVY.

RESULTS

The absolute configurations of the axially chiral compounds exhibited obvious distinctions in antiviral bioactivities, with several of these enantio‐enriched axially chiral molecules showing excellent anti‐PVY activities. In particular, compound (R)‐9fexhibited remarkable curative activities against PVY with a 50% maximal effective concentration (EC50) of 224.9 μg mL−1, which was better than that of ningnanmycin (NNM), which had an EC50of 234.0 μg mL−1. And the EC50value of the protective activities of compound (R)‐9f was 462.2 μg mL−1, which was comparable to that of NNM (442.0 μg mL−1). The mechanisms of two enantiomer of the axially chiral compounds9f were studied by both molecule docking and defensive enzyme activity tests.

CONCLUSION

Mechanistic studies demonstrated that the axially chiral configurations of the compounds played significant roles in the molecule PVY‐CP (PVY Coat Protein) interactions and could enhance the activities of the defense enzymes. The (S)‐9f showed only one carbon–hydrogen bond and one π–cation interaction between the chiral molecule and the PVY‐CP amino acid sites. In contrast, the (R)‐enantiomer of 9f exhibited three hydrogen bonding interactions between the carbonyl groups and the PVY‐CP active sites of ARG157 and GLN158. The current study provides significant information on the roles that axial chiralities play in plant protection against viruses, which will facilitate the development of novel green pesticides bearing axial chiralities with excellent optical purities. © 2023 Society of Chemical Industry.
Bamboo invasion alters Collembola community composition varying with life‐forms
Authors: Long Kui , Yin Rui , Kardol Paul , Wei Qiaoyu , Li Yongchun , Huang Junhao
Published: March 2023

BACKGROUND

Plant invasions are a global concern. In eastern China, bamboo is rapidly expanding, negatively influencing neighbouring forest communities. However, studies on how bamboo invasion affects belowground communities, especially for soil invertebrates, are still lacking. In the present study, we focused on a highly abundant and diverse fauna taxon – Collembola. Collembola communities have three typical life‐forms (i.e., epedaphic, hemiedaphic, and euedaphic) inhabiting different soil layers and playing distinct roles in ecological processes. Specifically, we studied their abundance, diversity, and community composition at the three stages of bamboo invasion: uninvaded secondary broadleaf forest, moderately invaded mixed bamboo forest, and completely invaded bamboo (Phyllostachys edulis) forest.

RESULTS

Our results showed that bamboo invasion negatively influenced Collembola communities by decreasing their abundance and diversity. Moreover, Collembola life‐forms differed in their responses to bamboo invasion, with surface‐dwelling Collembola being more vulnerable to bamboo invasion than soil‐living Collembola.

CONCLUSION

Our findings indicate differential response patterns to bamboo invasion within Collembola communities. The negative effects of bamboo invasion on soil surface‐dwelling Collembola may further influence ecosystem functioning. © 2023 Society of Chemical Industry.
Avoiding Gallium Pollution in Close‐Coupled Showerhead Reactors, Alternative Process Routes
Authors: Mrad Mrad , Mazel Yann , Feuillet Guy , Charles Matthew
Published: March 2023

In contrast to the previous work which solved the problem of gallium pollution using hardware modifications, herein, the changes are examined to process conditions to reduce gallium pollution in InAlN layer. Using a model of GaN decomposition followed by gallium desorption and diffusion to the showerhead, different process conditions are used to limit either the desorption or the diffusion. Reducing the GaN growth temperature gives some improvement by reducing desorption, but affects channel mobility, likely due to increased carbon incorporation. Increasing the wafer–showerhead distance also reduces the gallium pollution, this time by a factor of around 2. Finally, using AlGaN layers instead of GaN as the channel completely removes gallium pollution, even for composition as low as 5%. It is suggested that in addition to reducing desorption due to alloying, the aluminum precursor may be acting as a getter for this gallium, and so stops it getting to the showerhead. A combination of these different approaches suggests that process conditions can significantly reduce gallium pollution in close‐coupled showerhead reactors.
Performance of Ultraviolet‐B Laser Diodes on AlGaN Templates Prepared Using Different Fabrication Methods
Authors: Matsubara Eri , Omori Tomoya , Hasegawa Ryota , Yamada Kazuki , Yabutani Ayumu , Kondo Ryosuke , Nishibayashi Toma , Iwayama Sho , Takeuchi Tetsuya , Kamiyama Satoshi , Miyake Hideto , Iwaya Motoaki
Published: March 2023

Herein, the differences in the characteristics of ultraviolet‐B (UV‐B) laser diodes (LDs) are investigated and fabricated on AlGaN templates prepared using two types of fabrication methods: 1) spontaneous nucleation in which AlGaN is grown 3D from spontaneously generated AlN crystal nuclei and 2) AlN nanopillar in which AlGaN is grown on AlN nanopillars. The LD formed on the AlGaN fabricated using the AlN nanopillar method of slope efficiency and maximum peak light output power is improved four and six times, respectively, which are significantly better compared with the spontaneous nucleation method. The analysis also confirms the differences in injection efficiency and internal loss in the semiconductor crystal. Furthermore, detailed analysis of the current–voltage characteristics shows that the AlN nanopillar method has lower reverse leakage current and n‐value than the spontaneous nucleation method. Comparison of these differences with crystallographic properties suggests that these differences in device properties are manifested by differences in V‐shaped pits and dislocation density. The reduction of dislocations and V‐shaped pit density in an AlGaN template is important to realize high‐performance UV‐B LDs, and the AlN nanopillar method is found to be useful for the fabrication of a suitable AlGaN template.
Effects of Nd2O3 Doping Levels on the Sintering, Microstructures, and Dielectric Properties of MgO–Al2O3–SiO2 Glass‐Ceramics
Authors: Li Chunlin , Zhang Xiaoshun , Lu Yang , Shan Yiting , Zhou Hongqing
Published: March 2023

The effects of Nd2O3 addition on the crystallinities, microstructures, and properties of MgO–Al2O3–SiO2 (MAS) glass‐ceramics are investigated. The experimental results show that the addition of Nd2O3 allows complete sintering densification of the MAS at lower temperatures, and appropriate addition ratios increase the crystallinity, promote the formation of Indialite, improve the MAS microstructure, reduce the coefficient of thermal expansion, and optimize the dielectric properties. Ultimately, the best performance is achieved by adding 4 wt% Nd2O3 to the MAS sample and sintering at 1255 °C for 15 min. The bulk density is 2.51 g cm−3, εr = 6.50, tanδ = 1.96 × 10−3 (13 GHz), and CTE = 4.621 ppm °C−1.
Polarity Inversion of GaN via AlN Oxidation Interlayer Using Metal–Organic Vapor Phase Epitaxy
Authors: Murata Tomotaka , Ikeda Kazuhisa , Yamasaki Jun , Uemukai Masahiro , Tanikawa Tomoyuki , Katayama Ryuji
Published: March 2023

The polarity inversion of GaN films grown on vicinal sapphire substrates is demonstrated using the metal–organic vapor phase epitaxy (MOVPE) method via an AlN oxidation interlayer for application in wavelength conversion devices. By annealing the N‐polar AlN surface at 900 °C in air, the pit‐free Ga‐polar GaN layer can be regrown. Anisotropic etching in KOH and transmission electron microscopy confirms the formation of a GaN polarity‐inverted structure. X‐ray diffraction measurements reveal an increase in threading dislocations due to the nucleation island formation by low‐temperature GaN layer and strain relaxation at the regrown interface. The simple fabrication process of the GaN polarity‐inverted structure using an AlN oxidation interlayer will pave the way for applications in new devices that require polarity‐controlled and/or polarity‐inverted stacking structures.
Electronic and Optical Properties of CH3NH3SnI3 and CH(NH2)2SnI3 Perovskite Solar Cell
Authors: Han Nguyen Thi , Dien Vo Khuong , Lin Ming-Fa
Published: March 2023

Using first‐principles calculations, a study on the electronic and optical characteristics of perovskite solar cells containing the orthorhombic phases CH3NH3SnI3 and CH(NH2)2SnI3 is conducted. The analysis includes the examination of relaxed geometry structures, electronic band structures, charge density distributions, and van Hove singularities in the density of states to thoroughly examine the orbital hybridizations in chemical bonds. The optical properties of the materials with and without excitonic effects by analyzing dielectric functions, energy loss functions, absorption coefficients, and reflectance spectra are also studied. The findings identify the close connections between the initial and final orbital hybridizations, as well as prominent optical excitations. Based on the computational predictions, It is believed that lead‐free materials such as CH3NH3SnI3 and CH(NH2)2SnI3 are promising candidates for photovoltaic applications and are worth experimental testing.
Capilliposide B inhibits the migration of prostate cancer by inducing autophagy through the ROS/AMPK/mTOR pathway
Authors: Wang Luping , Han Haote , Feng Yue , Ma Jiahui , Han Zhuo , Li Ruyi , Zhu Wei , Li Shouxin , Tian Jingkui , Zhang Lin
Published: March 2023

Capilliposide B (CPS‐B), a novel oleanane triterpenoid saponin derived from Lysimachia capillipes Hemsl, is a potent anticancer agent. However, its anticancer mechanism remains elusive. In the present study, we demonstrated the potent anti‐tumor activity and molecular mechanism of CPS‐B both in vitro and in vivo. Proteomic analysis using isobaric tags for relative and absolute quantitation techniques suggested that CPS‐B modulated autophagy in prostate cancer (PC). Moreover, Western blotting showed that both autophagy and epithelial–mesenchymal transition occurred place after CPS‐B treatment in vivo, which was also proven in PC‐3 cancer cells. We deduced that CPS‐B inhibited migration by inducing autophagy. We examined the accumulation of reactive oxygen species (ROS) in cells, and in downstream pathways, LKB1 and AMPK were activated while mTOR was inhibited. Transwell experiment results showed that CPS‐B inhibited the metastasis of PC‐3 cells and that this effect was significantly attenuated after pretreatment with chloroquine, indicating that CPS‐B inhibited metastasis via autophagy induction. Altogether, these data suggest that CPS‐B is a potential therapeutic agent for cancer treatment that acts by inhibiting migration through the ROS/AMPK/mTOR signaling pathway.
Atmospheric chemical behaviors of (CF3)2CFCN by density‐functional theory method: The relationship between electronic structure and atmosphere lifetime
Authors: Liu Wei , Dong Wangchao , Song Yumei , Zhao Yiheng , Wu Panpan , Huang Xin , Wang Kun , Cheng Longjiu
Published: March 2023

(CF3)2CFCN with excellent insulation performance has been proposed to replace the traditional SF6 as a new insulating medium in power equipment. In the present study, the molecular structure and radiative efficiency (RE) of (CF3)2CFCN are calculated and compared with SF6 based on density‐functional theory (DFT) calculation. The decomposition of pure (CF3)2CFCN and the basic interactions between (CF3)2CFCN and hydroxyl radical in the constructed co‐crystal of (CF3)2CFCN‐H2O have been simulated by applying Monte‐Carlo calculation and Car–Parrinello molecular dynamics method, in order to obtain reasonable and full‐scale atmospheric dissociation processes. Then the detailed decomposition pathways are learned with DFT method of M06‐2X. The rate constants of different pathways are further applied for calculating the atmosphere lifetime of (CF3)2CFCN, to evaluate the possibility of applying it as an alternative gas of SF6 in power equipment. All the atmospheric chemical behaviors are determined by electronic structure and reflected by the decomposition pathways of (CF3)2CFCN with interacting with hydroxyl radicals. Rather than traditional hypothesizing reaction models given by the chemical intuitions, this study provides a new view angle to understand the dissociation pathways based on first‐principle molecular dynamic method, and to evaluate the atmospheric chemical behaviors of other protective gas of power equipment.
New and emerging therapies in gout
Authors: James Reeta , Paul Binoy J.
Published: March 2023

Gout is a disease that has been pestering humankind for centuries. Hence, gout therapeutics has always been a field of ongoing research. Beginning from colchicine, which was the first drug to come into use, to the latest inflammasome inhibitors and monoclonal antibodies, therapies for gout have evolved remarkably over the years. Although gout‐related research came to a standstill in the late 20th century, the 21st century witnessed a renaissance in gout therapeutics with the advent of new xanthine oxidase inhibitors. Our present armamentarium against gout includes drugs that exploit the newfound knowledge about the various mechanisms involved in the pathogenesis of gout as well as drugs used in other conditions, which are effective in gout as well. Many more drugs that promise better management of gout in the future are in the pipeline.
Small Molecules as Anti‐inflammatory Agents: Molecular Mechanisms and Heterocycles as Inhibitors of Signaling Pathways
Authors: Basha N. Jeelan
Published: March 2023

Cancer and inflammation interlink with many pathways. Millions of people died because of these two disorders. Major pathways that cause both inflammation and cancer are STAT3, NF‐κB, COX, and histone acetylation. However, these are the target for medicinally potent heterocycles such as pyrimidines, indole, and pyrazole. Many NSAIDs reported in the literature belong to both natural and synthetic molecules. This review encompasses molecular mechanisms for inflammation, NSAIDs derived from natural sources and synthetic methods, and recent reports on heterocycles as potent anti‐inflammatory agents and their significance in cancer treatment. Literature for the study, accomplished from 2019 to 2022.
Effects of Barium‐Copper‐Cobalt oxide composites supported on reduced graphene oxide in the thermolysis of ammonium perchlorate and 3‐nitro‐1,2,4‐triazol‐5‐one
Authors: Dave Pragnesh N. , Sirach Ruksana
Published: March 2023

Synthesis method of nanocrystalline Barium‐Copper‐Cobalt oxide (BCC) and its composite with reduced graphene oxide (rGO) was provided. The size of nanocrystalline (∼13 nm) materials (BCC and BCC/rGO) was confirmed using powder X‐ray diffraction patterns. The effect of rGO, BCC, and BCC/rGO on the thermal decomposition of 3‐Nitro‐1,2,4‐triazol‐5‐one (NTO) and ammonium perchlorate (AP) was investigated using simultaneous thermal analysis. Non‐isothermal isoconversion method was used to calculate the activation energy of AP and NTO with and without rGO, BCC, and BCC/rGO. The thermal analysis suggests that in the presence of BCC and BCC/rGO, the thermal decomposition exotherm of NTO was lowered to ∼259, and ∼228 °C, respectively, and that of AP was lowered to 355, and 345 °C, respectively. BCC and BCC/rGO exhibit very good catalytic activity for the thermal decomposition of NTO by lowering NTO's activation energy barrier by ∼179 and 261 kJ mol−1, respectively. The activation energy calculations for low thermal decomposition and high thermal decomposition of AP (∼95 kJ mol−1 average) do not provide conclusive evidence to confirm the catalytic influence of BCC and BCC/rGO. The composition NTO+BCC has a lower activation energy barrier (∼121 kJ mol−1) than pure NTO which makes the thermal decomposition of NTO+BCC more favorable than pure NTO making its application in insensitive munitions more favorable. AP+BCC decomposes within a short temperature range and hence, it can be used in solid rocket propellants requiring faster decomposition of AP in place of pure AP.
Design, Synthesis, Spectral Characterization, Antioxidant Activity, Molecular Docking and in silico ADMET Studies of 1, 3 Oxazepines
Authors: Ramkumar Subramaniyan , Ramarajan Rajalakshmi
Published: March 2023

In this study, we synthesised a series of novel 1, 3‐oxazepine and characterized by FT‐IR, 1HNMR and 13CNMR spectral studies. Docking studies are carried out for the synthesised compound using five different proteins (PDB Code: 1HNY, 1VMP, 3A4A, 6W63 and 7JRN) and it proved that all the synthesised compounds having better binding affinity in anti‐oxidant (3A4A) proteins. Based on the docking result all the newly synthesised compounds are screened their antioxidant activity. The compounds showed a good activity towards antioxidant activity compared with standard. Furthermore, the SwissADME online application is used to analyses the physiochemical and pharmacokinetic features of the compounds.
[Ch][TAPSO] As an Efficient Ionic Liquid Catalyst for One‐Pot Synthesis ofTetrahydro‐4H‐chromenes and 3,4‐Dihydropyrano[c]chromenes
Authors: Verma Usha Kumari , Manhas Akanksha , Kapoor Kamal K.
Published: March 2023

Cholinium N‐Tris(hydroxymethyl)methyl‐3‐amino‐2‐hydroxypropanesulfonate [Ch][TAPSO] has been found as an efficient ionic liquid catalyst for the synthesis of tetrahydro‐4H‐chromenes and 3,4‐dihydropyrano[c]chromenes in water and EtOH : Water (3 : 2) respectively. [Ch][TAPSO] being a basic IL has also been observed to extract acidic compounds such as rhodamine B from IL‐ immiscible organic solvent such as acetone through acid‐base interaction. The extraction process of fluorescent dye rhodamine B was determined by ultraviolet‐visible (UV‐Vis) spectroscopy. The observed percentage extraction rate is 100 % upto 6 mM solution of rhodamine in acetone. This method results in faster reaction with operational simplicity and excellent yields of the products. Furthermore, the catalyst has a great capacity for reutilisation.
Dual Catalytic and Self‐Assembled Growth of Two‐Dimensional Transition Metal Dichalcogenides Through Simultaneous Predeposition Process
Authors: Kim Minsu , Son Minkyun , Seo Dong‐Bum , Kim Jin , Jang Moonjeong , Kim Dong In , Lee Seunghun , Yim Soonmin , Song Wooseok , Myung Sung , Yoo Jung‐Woo , Lee Sun Sook , An Ki‐Seok
Published: March 2023

The recent introduction of alkali metal halide catalysts for chemical vapor deposition (CVD) of transition metal dichalcogenides (TMDs) has enabled remarkable two‐dimensional (2D) growth. However, the process development and growth mechanism require further exploration to enhance the effects of salts and understand the principles. Herein, simultaneous predeposition of a metal source (MoO3) and salt (NaCl) by thermal evaporation is adopted. As a result, remarkable growth behaviors such as promoted 2D growth, easy patterning, and potential diversity of target materials can be achieved. Step‐by‐step spectroscopy combined with morphological analyses reveals a reaction path for MoS2 growth in which NaCl reacts separately with S and MoO3 to form Na2SO4 and Na2Mo2O7 intermediates, respectively. These intermediates provide a favorable environment for 2D growth, including an enhanced source supply and liquid medium. Consequently, large grains of monolayer MoS2 are formed by self‐assembly, indicating the merging of small equilateral triangular grains on the liquid intermediates. This study is expected to serve as an ideal reference for understanding the principles of salt catalysis and evolution of CVD in the preparation of 2D TMDs.
Bimetallic Pt‐Hg Aerogels for Electrocatalytic Upgrading of Ethanol to Acetate
Authors: Zhang Xin , Wang Tao , Wang Cui , Hübner René , Eychmüller Alexander , Zhan Jinhua , Cai Bin
Published: March 2023

Electrochemical upgrading of ethanol to acetic acid provides a promising strategy to couple with the current hydrogen production from water electrolysis. This work reports the design of a series of bimetallic PtHg aerogels, where the PtHg aerogel exhibits a 10.5‐times higher mass activity than that of commercial Pt/C toward ethanol oxidation. More impressively, the PtHg aerogel demonstrates nearly 100% selectivity toward the production of acetic acid. The operando infrared spectroscopic studies and nuclear magnetic resonance analysis verify the preferable C2 pathway mechanism during the reaction. This work opens an avenue for the electrochemical synthesis of acetic acid via ethanol electrolysis.
Three‐Dimensional Coffee‐Ring Effect Induced Deposition on Foam Surface for Enhanced Photothermal Conversion
Authors: Liu Yunjia , Lin Si , Zhu Yali , Gao Xiaoying , Wang Zhipeng , Yang Shenghong , Liu Jian
Published: March 2023

Uniformly depositing a thin layer of functional constituents on porous foam is attractive to realize their concentrated interfacial application. Here, a simple but robust polyvinyl alcohol (PVA)‐mediated evaporation drying strategy to achieve uniform surface deposition on melamine foam (MF) is introduced. Solutes can be accumulated homogeneously to the surface periphery of MF due to the enhanced coffee‐ring effect of PVA and its stabilizing effect on various functional constituents, including molecules and colloidal particles. The deposition thickness is positively correlated with the feeding amounts of PVA but seems to be independent of drying temperature. 3D outward capillary flow driven by the combination of contact surface pinning and continual interfacial evaporation induces the forming of core‐shell foams. The enhanced interfacial photothermal effect and solar desalination performance using PVA/polypyrrole‐coated MF as a Janus solar evaporator are demonstrated.
High‐Performance Ammonia Protonic Ceramic Fuel Cells Using a Pd Inter‐Catalyst
Authors: Jeong Heon Jun , Chang Wanhyuk , Seo Beum Geun , Choi Yun Sung , Kim Keun Hee , Kim Dong Hwan , Shim Joon Hyung
Published: March 2023

This study reports the performance and durability of a protonic ceramic fuel cells (PCFCs) in an ammonia fuel injection environment. The low ammonia decomposition rate in PCFCs with lower operating temperatures is improved relative to that of solid oxide fuel cells by treatment with a catalyst. By treating the anode of the PCFCs with a palladium (Pd) catalyst at 500 °C under ammonia fuel injection, the performance (peak power density of 340 mW cm−2 at 500 °C) is approximately two‐fold higher than that of the bare sample not treated with Pd. Pd catalysts are deposited through an atomic layer deposition post‐treatment process on the anode surface, in which nickel oxide (NiO) and BaZr0.2Ce0.6Y0.1Yb0.1O3–δ (BZCYYb) are mixed, and Pd can penetrate the anode surface and porous interior. Impedance analysis confirmed that Pd increased the current collection and significantly reduced the polarization resistance, particularly in the low‐temperature region (≈500 °C), thereby improving the performance. Furthermore, stability tests showed that superior durability is achieved compared with that of the bare sample. Based on these results, the method presented herein is expected to represent a promising solution for securing high‐performance and stable PCFCs based on ammonia injection.
Stretchable, Electrochemically‐Stable Electrochromic Devices Based on Semi‐Embedded Ag@Au Nanowire Network
Authors: Fan Qingchao , Fan Hongwei , Li Kerui , Hou Chengyi , Zhang Qinghong , Li Yaogang , Wang Hongzhi
Published: March 2023

Stretchable electrochromic (EC) devices that can adapt the irregular and dynamic human surfaces show promising applications in wearable display, adaptive camouflage, and visual sensation. However, challenges exist in lacking transparent conductive electrodes with both tensile and electrochemical stability to assemble the complex device structure and endure harsh electrochemical redox reactions. Herein, a wrinkled, semi‐embedded Ag@Au nanowire (NW) networks are constructed on elastomer substrates to fabricate stretchable, electrochemically‐stable conductive electrodes. The stretchable EC devices are then fabricated by sandwiching a viologen‐based gel electrolyte between two conductive electrodes with the semi‐embedded Ag@Au NW network. Because the inert Au layer inhibits the oxidation of Ag NWs, the EC device exhibits much more stable color changes between yellow and green than those with pure Ag NW networks. In addition, since the wrinkled semi‐embedded structure is deformable and reversibly stretched without serious fractures, the EC devices still maintain excellent color‐changing stability under 40% stretching/releasing cycles.
Carbon Dots Strongly Immobilized onto Carbon Nanohorns as Non‐Metal Heterostructure with High Electrocatalytic Activity towards Protons Reduction in Hydrogen Evolution Reaction
Authors: Kagkoura Antonia , Ojeda‐Galván Hiram Joazet , Quintana Mildred , Tagmatarchis Nikos
Published: March 2023

Highly performing, non‐metal inexpensive electrocatalysts for the production of hydrogen via electrochemical water splitting are called for the replacement of current platinum‐based ones. In order to speed up the electrocatalytic hydrogen evolution, abundant active sites but also efficient charge transfer is needed. In this context, 0D carbon dots (CDs) with large specific surface area, low cost, high conductivity, and rich functional groups emerge as promising non‐metal electrocatalysts. Additionally, the use of conductive substrates provides an effective strategy to boost their electrocatalytic performance. Herein, the unique 3D superstructure of carbon nanohorns (CNHs), as well as without any metal content in their structure, is used to provide a conductive support of high porosity, large specific surface area, and good electrical conductivity, for the in situ growth and immobilization of CDs, via a simple hydrothermal method. The direct contact of CDs with the 3D conductive network of CNHs promotes charge transfer, accelerating hydrogen evolution. The all‐carbon non‐metal CDs/CNHs nanoensembleshows an onset potential close to the one of Pt/C, low charge transfer resistance, and excellent stability.
Atomically Dispersed Ni–N4 Sites Assist Pt3Ni Nanocages with Pt Skin to Synergistically Enhance Oxygen Reduction Activity and Stability
Authors: Yan Wei , Guo Ouyang , Xing Qianli , Liao Meijing , Shi Zhuang , Feng Hao , Zhang Yuexing , Li Xiyou , Chen Yanli
Published: March 2023

Currently, the rarity and high cost of platinum (Pt)‐based electrocatalysts seriously limit their commercial application in fuel cells cathode. Decorating Pt with atomically dispersed metal–nitrogen sites possibly offers an effective pathway to synergy tailor their catalytic activity and stability. Here active and stable oxygen reduction reaction (ORR) electrocatalysts (Pt3Ni@Ni–N4–C) by in situ loading Pt3Ni nanocages with Pt skin on single‐atom nickel–nitrogen (Ni–N4) embedded carbon supports are designed and constructed. The Pt3Ni@Ni–N4–C exhibits excellent mass activity (MA) of 1.92 A mgPt−1 and specific activity of 2.65 mA cmPt−2, together with superior durability of 10 mV decay in half‐wave potential and only 2.1% loss in MA after 30 000 cycles. Theoretical calculations demonstrate that Ni–N4 sites significant redistribute of electrons and make them transfer from both the adjacent carbon and Pt atoms to the Ni–N4. The resultant electron accumulation region successfully anchored Pt3Ni, that not only improves structural stability of the Pt3Ni, but importantly makes the surface Pt more positive to weaken the adsorption of *OH to enhance ORR activity. This strategy lays the groundwork for the development of super effective and durable Pt‐based ORR catalysts.
Efficient Perovskite Solar Cells with Iodine‐Doped Spiro‐OMeTAD Hole Transport Layer via Fast Oxidation
Authors: Ma Fei , Zhao Yang , Qu Zihan , Yu Shiqi , Chu Zema , Xiong Zhuang , Zhou Jingshu , Wei Zhongming , Zhang Xingwang , You Jingbi
Published: March 2023

The state‐of‐the‐art perovskite solar cells (PSCs) have reached a certified efficiency approaching 26% in decades. It is noteworthy that the record efficiencies are almost based on the regular structure PSCs using spiro‐OMeTAD (Spiro) as the hole transport layer. However, the necessity of rather long (8–24 h) oxidation process of Spiro can probably cause potential instability and poor reproducibility of PSCs because of the hygroscopic additives in Spiro and humid‐sensitive perovskite layer underneath. Herein, a fast oxidation method of Spiro by introducing the iodine molecule as oxidant dopant is demonstrated , which can enhance the conductivity and hole‐extraction ability of the Spiro film in extremely short time, even without oxygen exposure. The I2‐doped Spiro‐based devices reach optimal efficiencies of 25.44% and 24.27% under short oxidation (4 h) and oxygen‐free environment, respectively. In addition, the I2 helps Spiro keep a durable oxidized‐state, making Spiro layer qualified conductivity for improved stability of PSCs. Consequently, the oxygen‐free oxidized Spiro‐based target champion device remains the 97.8% of initial steady output after storage of 30 days.
Selenium‐Based Nonfused Electron Acceptors for Efficient Organic Photovoltaic Cells
Authors: Xiao Yang , Yao Huifeng , Yang Yi , Song Chang Eun , Wang Jingwen , Yang Ni , Li Zi , Yu Yue , Ryu Du Hyeon , An Cunbin , Shin Won Suk , Hou Jianhui
Published: March 2023

Selenium heterocycles are widely used in constructing organic semiconductors due to their advantages in narrowing the bandgap and enhancing the intermolecular packing. Herein, the application of Se substitution in designing nonfused electron acceptors (nfEAs) is studied. From a thiophene analog (A4T‐16), three nfEAs with two (ASe‐1 and ASe‐2) or four (ASe‐3) selenophene units are synthesized. The results suggest that the incorporation of Se atoms will downshift the lowest unoccupied molecular orbit level, upshift the highest occupied molecular orbit level, and exhibit redshifted absorption spectra due to the enhanced quinoidal character. The crystallographic data indicate that Se‐containing molecules exhibit more planar conjugate skeleton and thus lead to the improvement of carrier mobility. When blended with a polymer donor PBDB‐TF, ASe‐1‐, ASe‐2‐, and ASe‐3‐based organic photovoltaic (OPV) cells obtain power conversion efficiencies of 12.7%, 11.0%, and 10.4%, respectively. This work provides a comprehensive study of the application of Se substitution in designing low bandgap nfEAs for efficient OPV cells.
Maschinelles Lernen beim Entwurf und der Bemessung von Stahlrahmenhallen
Authors: Fisch Rupert , Stecker Enrico , Kraus Michael A.
Published: March 2023

Der Einsatz digitaler Hilfsmittel in Planungs‐ und Bauprozessen steigert die Effizienz, insbesondere für wiederkehrende Aufgaben und Abläufe, wie z. B. die Dimensionierung von Bauteilen oder Bauwerken, welche nach ähnlichen Mustern ablaufen. Dieser Beitrag entwickelt einen Künstliche‐Intelligenz‐(KI‐)basierten Assistenten zum Einsatz im Entwurf und bei der Bemessung von Stahlrahmenhallen als prototypischen Co‐Piloten. Dazu wird die notwendige Datenbasis an Stahlrahmenhallen aus Projektarchiven der TRAGRAUM Partnerschaft Beratender Ingenieure mbB zusammengestellt. Diese wird im Rahmen von Datenanalysen nach den maßgebenden Beschreibungsparametern und Mustern untersucht, sodass geeignete KI‐Ersatzmodelle zur Vorhersage der Hallenparameter mittels Regressionsanalysen trainiert werden. Ferner wird eine Schnittstelle zum Finite‐Elemente‐Programm SOFiSTiK implementiert, welches die Prädiktionen der KI bezüglich der Parameter der Stahlrahmenhallen an ein parametrisiertes Eingabefile übergibt und die Berechnung und Bemessung anstößt. Im Zuge der Kalibrierung der KI‐Ersatzmodelle werden neben den Approximationsgüten auch evtl. vorzuhaltende Sicherheitsaufschläge diskutiert. Dieser Beitrag zeigt, dass der prototypische Co‐Pilot zur Vorbemessung von Stahlrahmenhallen erfolgreich umgesetzt werden konnte und mit der KI neu generierte Hallenrahmen bezüglich der Validierungsbetrachtungen als standsicher eingestuft werden können. Der Ausblick beleuchtet künftige Weiterentwicklungen dieses Ansatzes sowie den Übertrag auf andere Anwendungen.
Defining epigenetic literacy: How to integrate epigenetics into the biology curriculum
Authors: Gericke Niklas , Mc Ewen Birgitta
Published: March 2023

The aim of this study is to define epigenetic literacy and describe how it can be included in school biology. Epigenetics is a new field of research in biology with abundant societal consequences and conceptual implications on how genetics is understood. Epigenetics explains how genes are regulated, thereby clarifying cell differentiation, and providing an understanding of how the environment interacts with genes. Students are bound to encounter epigenetic knowledge and applications related to issues such as health, food, and exercise in the media and their everyday lives. Consequently, there is a need to develop epigenetic literacy. Nevertheless, epigenetics is missing in biology curricula and is almost unknown among teachers and students. Research on epigenetics in science education is scarce, and we do not know what and how to teach. Therefore, we conducted a policy Delphi study with a panel of experts to define an epigenetic literacy framework for teaching in secondary education in relation to Robert's Vision I and Vision II perspectives on epigenetic literacy. Participants were 41 recognized international experts representing 11 countries and five areas of expertise. The experts suggested that epigenetics should be introduced in the lower secondary genetics course (students aged 13–15 years), but also addressed in other relevant areas of biology. The study generated six content themes: epigenetics as a metaphor; epigenetics connecting nature with nurture; epigenetics as a dynamic process; epigenetic mechanisms; epigenetics and inheritance; and epigenetics and nature of science, and five sociocultural themes for contextualization: epigenetics and lifestyle; epigenetics and diseases; epigenetics and ethics; epigenetics and policies; and epigenetics and forensics. Taken together, these themes constitute the epigenetic literacy framework. Further, we uncover divergent meanings in the expert panel—as is typical of policy Delphi studies—and connect the framework to genetic literacy and learning progressions in genetics education.
Genes and genetic mechanisms contributing to fall armyworm resistance in maize
Authors: Warburton Marilyn L. , Woolfolk Sandra W. , Smith J. Spencer , Hawkins Leigh K. , Castano‐Duque Lina , Lebar Matthew D. , Williams W. Paul
Published: March 2023

Maize (Zea mays L.) is a crop of major economic and food security importance globally. The fall armyworm (FAW), Spodoptera frugiperda, can devastate entire maize crops, especially in countries or markets that do not allow the use of transgenic crops. Host‐plant insect resistance is an economical and environmentally benign way to control FAW, and this study sought to identify maize lines, genes, and pathways that contribute to resistance to FAW. Of the 289 maize lines phenotyped for FAW damage in artificially infested, replicated field trials over 3 years, 31 were identified with good levels of resistance that could donate FAW resistance into elite but susceptible hybrid parents. The 289 lines were genotyped by sequencing to provide single nucleotide polymorphism (SNP) markers for a genome‐wide association study (GWAS), followed by a metabolic pathway analysis using the Pathway Association Study Tool (PAST). GWAS identified 15 SNPs linked to 7 genes, and PAST identified multiple pathways, associated with FAW damage. Top pathways, and thus useful resistance mechanisms for further study, include hormone signaling pathways and the biosynthesis of carotenoids (particularly zeaxanthin), chlorophyll compounds, cuticular wax, known antibiosis agents, and 1,4‐dihydroxy‐2‐naphthoate. Targeted metabolite analysis confirmed that maize genotypes with lower levels of FAW damage tend to have higher levels of chlorophyll a than genotypes with high FAW damage, which tend to have lower levels of pheophytin, lutein, chlorophyll b and β‐carotene. The list of resistant genotypes, and the results from the genetic, pathway, and metabolic study, can all contribute to efficient creation of FAW resistant cultivars.
Correlation of short‐term variation derived from novel ambulatory fetal electrocardiography monitor with computerized cardiotocography
Authors: Liu B. , Thilaganathan B. , Bhide A.
Published: March 2023

Objectives

To compare short‐term variation (STV) outputs from a novel self‐applied non‐invasive fetal electrocardiography (NIFECG) device with those obtained on computerized cardiotocography (cCTG). Technological and algorithmic limitations and mitigation strategies were also evaluated.

Methods

This was a prospective cohort study of women with a singleton pregnancy over 28 + 0 weeks' gestation attending a tertiary London hospital for cCTG assessment between June 2021 and June 2022. Women underwent concurrent monitoring with both NIFECG and cCTG for up to 1 h. Postprocessing of NIFECG data using various filtering methods produced NIFECG‐STV (eSTV) values, which were compared with cCTG‐STV (cSTV) outputs. Linear correlation, mean bias, precision and limits of agreement were assessed for STV derived by the different methods of computation and mathematical correction.

Results

Overall, 306 concurrent NIFECG and cCTG traces were collected from 285 women. Fully filtered eSTV was correlated very strongly with cSTV (r = 0.911, P < 0.001), but generated results only in 142/306 (46.4%) 1‐h traces owing to the removal of traces with lower‐quality signals. Partial filtering generated more eSTV data (98.4%), but with a weak correlation with cSTV (r = 0.337, P < 0.001). The difference in STV between the monitors (eSTV – cSTV) increased with signal loss; in traces with > 60% signal loss, the values became highly discrepant. Removal of traces with > 60% signal loss resulted in a stronger correlation with cSTV, while still generating eSTV results for 65% of traces. Correcting these remaining eSTV values for signal loss using linear regression analysis further improved correlation with cSTV (r = 0.839, P < 0.001).

Conclusions

The discrepancy between STV computed by NIFECG and cCTG necessitates signal filtering, exclusion of poor‐quality traces and eSTV correction. This study demonstrates that, with such correction, NIFECG is able to produce STV values that are strongly correlated with those of cCTG. This evidence base for NIFECG monitoring and interpretation is a promising step forward in the development of safe and effective at‐home fetal heart‐rate monitoring. © 2023 The Authors. Ultrasound in Obstetrics & Gynecology published by John Wiley & Sons Ltd on behalf of International Society of Ultrasound in Obstetrics and Gynecology.
Facilitating high‐quality EMS through clear communication
Authors: Paterson Sue
Published: March 2023

For the final article in this series about the RCVS’ extramural studies (EMS) reforms, Sue Paterson, RCVS junior vice president, describes how a new database will act as a nexus between students, universities and placement providers to ensure that the right people get the right EMS placements. Two young vets who helped shape the proposals also discuss how they hope the new EMS policy will improve outcomes.
Tumor‐targeted nano‐adjuvants to synergize photomediated immunotherapy enhanced antitumor immunity
Authors: Zhu Hongda , Yang Chaobo , Yan Aqin , Qiang Wei , Ruan Rui , Ma Kai , Guan Yeneng , Li Jing , Yu Qi , Zheng Hongmei , Tu Le , Liu Shuang , Dai Zhu , Sun Yao
Published: March 2023

Photomediated immunotherapy explored to combine the anti‐cancer effect of phototherapy with the immune enhancement ability of immunotherapy, and shown great prospects for cancer treatment strategies. However, photomediated immunotherapy triggered antitumor immunity through the release of tumor antigens and damage‐associated molecular patterns from necrotic tumor cells was not enough mighty to improve the therapeutic benefits due to the immunosuppressive tumor microenvironments. Herein, a tumor‐targeted nano‐adjuvant Fucoidan@Al(OH)3‐Poly(I:C)/IR‐820 for tumor‐targeted therapy and metastasis inhibition was designed and prepared. The intrinsic immunomodulatory effects of tumor‐targeted nano‐adjuvant and their ability to simultaneously trigger tumor antigen release, thereby reversing immunosuppression and achieving potent antitumor immunity and augmented cancer therapy, were explored. The results proved that the multifunctional nano‐adjuvant combined with photothermal, photodynamic, and immunotherapy could effectively treat breast cancer and had metastasis inhibition effect by enhancing anti‐tumor immunity through immunomodulation, it should have great application potential in the treatment of breast cancer.
Gastrotomy approach for removal of an oesophageal foreign body in a dog
Authors: Osaki Tomohiro , Murahata Yusuke , Iguchi Aiko , Amaha Takao , Okamoto Yoshiharu
Published: March 2023

A 9‐year‐old castrated male Kaninchen dachshund dog weighing 4.18 kg was referred to our institution and presented with occasional vomiting and dysphagia. The radiographic examination revealed a long radiopaque foreign body located throughout the thoracic oesophagus. Endoscopic removal was attempted using laparoscopic forceps but was unsuccessful as the foreign body was too large to be grasped. A gastrotomy was therefore performed, and long paean forceps were gently and blindly inserted into the cardia of the stomach. The bone foreign body was grasped with the long paean forceps under fluoroscopy and withdrawn from the oesophagus while checking with an endoscope. A gastrotomy approach using long forceps, endoscopy and fluoroscopy should be considered for removal of oesophageal foreign bodies from patients in which an endoscopic approach has been unsuccessful.
Sero‐prevalence and risk factors associated with brucellosis in dairy cattle of Sylhet District, Bangladesh: A cross‐sectional study
Authors: Deb Nath Nirmalendu , Ahmed Syed Sayeem Uddin , Malakar Vashkar , Hussain Tanimul , Chandra Deb Liton , Paul Suman
Published: March 2023

Background

Brucellosis is an emerging disease that causes a significant impact on productive and reproductive performance in dairy cattle. Though Brucella is a pivotal microorganism for dairy cattle, the scenario of brucellosis in Sylhet District is unknown.

Objectives

A cross‐sectional study was carried out to assess the prevalence and determinants associated with brucellosis in dairy cattle of Sylhet District.

Methods

A total of 386 sera and data on determinants from 63 dairy herds were collected from 12 sub‐districts using simple random sampling. The sera were tested with Rose Bengal Brucella antigen test, Brucella abortus plate agglutination test and serum agglutination test to find out the sero‐positivity.

Results

Overall, 17.09% (95% CI: 13.67–21.18) prevalence in cows were calculated. Relatively higher prevalence (56.08%; 95% CI: 42.23–70.32) was recorded in cows having parity ≥4 and were at higher risk (OR = 7.28) than the other cows with parity 0–3. Prevalence was significantly higher in cows with history of abortion 90.63% (95% CI: 75.79–96.76), repeat breeding 79.17% (95% CI: 65.74–88.27) and reproductive abnormalities 48.54% (95% CI: 39.12–58.07). Farm‐level prevalence was high in farms with the previous history of abortion 95.45% (95% CI: 78.20–99.19) and repeat breeding 90.00% (95% CI: 74.38–96.54).

Conclusions

The prevalence was high in Sylhet district, which might be a public health concern. Therefore, this study would represent the baseline information for guiding brucellosis control and prevention.