bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Measures against Infection in Facilities Using Air Catalysts
Authors: Kasuga Ikuma , Yokoe Yoshimi , Gamo Sanae , Sugiyama Tomoko , Noguchi Maiko , Tokura Michiyo , Okayama Mayumi , Nagakura Rei , Tsuchiya Takayoshi , Sofuni Atsushi , Itoi Takao , Ohtsubo Osamu
Published: January 2023

Background: The global outbreak of COVID-19 has affected the operations of healthcare field and various infection control measures are being carried out at each hospital and clinic.

Aim: We have administered infection control measures using air catalysts which is a new antiviral and antibacterial technology being employed at our healthcare center.

Methodology: We used a product called Health Bright® and this liquid substance was sprayed to coat every part of the facility. After that, we measured the amount of adenosine triphosphate (ATP) in coated places, including the waiting room, examination room and endoscopy room.

Results: The amount of ATP decreased the day after the treatment in each room, and of note is that the amount of ATP was still low after 6 months and 12 months.

Conclusion: Our current data showed the possible efficacy of air catalysts against bacteria and virus in the healthcare facility.
Competencebased Learning Environment Support for Pupils’ Learning in Mpwapwa District Primary Schools
Authors: Ndimbo William H.
Published: January 2023

This study investigated on competence-based learning environment support for pupils’ learning. Preparation and use of competence-based instructional materials, selection and use of competence-based teaching-learning techniques, and classroom situation for pupils’ effective learning were the objectives of the study. The study was conducted in Mpwapwa District primary schools. Qualitative approach was employed to capture participants’ views. Interviews and observations methods were used for data collection. 15 participants from 5 primary schools were involved in this study. 10 participants were classroom teachers, and 5 were head-teachers. 10 classroom teachers were selected on purpose, and 5 head-teachers were involved in this study by virtual of their administrative positions. Data were analysed by thematic and content techniques.

The study revealed that government, teachers, pupils, and schools involved in the preparation of instructional materials. The findings also showed that simple questions and answers, lectures, and group discussions were the predominant methods used by teachers to teach pupils in spite of the teachers knowing other teaching methods. Further the study found that classroom situation was an obstacle for the teachers and pupils in teaching and learning process. The point was evidenced by shortage of pupils’ text books, computers, desks, tables and chairs, and crowded classes. The study concluded that there was little support of competence-based learning environment for pupils’ effective in Mpwapwa District Council. The study recommends that for pupils’ effective learning and better performance, competence-based learning environment aspects are to be taken into consideration by education stake-holders particularly government.
Empirical Investigation on the Effect of the Number of Resamplings on the Distribution of Bootstrap Standard Error Using Response Time Data
Authors: Joy I. Udobi,
Published: January 2023

Aims: To investigate how the number of bootstrapping B affects the values returned by the bootstrap standard error of the arithmetic mean and the α-trimmed mean of response data using bootstrap confidence intervals (CI) at 95% level; carried out to fill up observed gap for study on standard error, the tool generally employed in assessing the long run accuracy of a given statistical estimator of θ.

Study Design: This was a parametric, empirical bootstrap simulation study.

Place and Duration of the Study: Departments of Computer Science and Statistics, Federal Polytechnic Oko, 2020/2021 session.

Methodology: Response time data were generated with student customers of mobile telephone network (mtn) Nigeria and stored in SPSS. A sample n = 51 responses was selected using “Select Cases” command to increase precision and minimize bias. Bootstrap simulation study was carried out using R programming language. Four approaches for estimating bootstrap confidence intervals were used. The interval coverage and the interval lengths were determined and compared for B = 20, 50, 100, 500, 1000, 5000, and 10000.

Results: The 95% CI for 0.2266338 (the estimated sample standard error of 10% trimmed mean) returned the best interval for our skewed data set; when B = 20; the CI for  returned (0.2051, 0.2343) for the normal approach, (0.2082, 0.2371) for the basic, (0.2071, 0.2360) for the percentile and (0.2071, 0.2360) for the BCa method. As B increased to 5000, it returned (0.2259, 0.2277) for the normal approach, (0.2259, 0.2277) for the basic, (0.2260, 0.2277) for the percentile and (0.2261, 0.2279) for the BCa showing a shorter interval yet covering the estimate.

Conclusion: Thus for our response data study, increasing B in estimating standard error increases the chances of more precise and shorter confidence intervals rather than the chances for coverage.
Assessment of Foliar Spray of Iron and Salicylic Acid under Artificial Magnetism on Various Metabolites of Pisum sativum
Authors: Naseer Hassan , Shaukat Kanval , Nizar Mereen , Ahmed Jabran
Published: January 2023

Evaluating the impact of foliar treatment of (SA) salicylic acid and iron (Fe) on plants with the treatment of artificial magnetism is very essential to understand its effects on germination and growth of Pisum sativum. The current research was designed to document the primary role of SA and Fe on matore variety of garden pea. Selected specie was given various geo and artificial magnetic treatments. Hence, a pot experimentation was designed using Completely Randomized Design under factorial with three replicates. Seeds were sown in pots having different geo and artificial magnetism treatments. Later, fifteen days of germination, pea plants were foliarly sprayed with 250 μM salicylic acid and 250 ppm iron. Furthermore, later twenty days of foliar supplementation seedlings were uprooted/harvested and taken to lab to analyze different bio-chemical attributes. Data annotate diverse variations in Matore variety among various magnetism   treatments. Artificial magnetic treatments combined with foliarly supplementation of salicylic acid and iron significantly improved tannin content, ascorbic acid as well as phytic acid in pea plants. Thus, foliar supplementation based on this current research findings may be proposed for improved development and growth of plants in combination with magnetism.
A Comparative Study between SIRS, QSOFA, NEWS AND MEWS Score as Predictors for Inhospital Mortality of Patients Getting Admitted To ICU of a Tertiary Care Teaching Hospital
Authors: Majmundar Aarjuv , Lakhani Sucheta , Shah Smit , Lakhani Jitendra D.
Published: January 2023

Sepsis screening in the Emergency Department (ED) is necessary for the rational management of patients. Multiple severity screening scores such as Systemic Inflammatory Response Syndrome (SIRS), quick Sepsis-related Organ Failure Assessment (qSOFA), National Early Warning Score (NEWS), and the Modified Early Warning Score (MEWS) are available. Though "Sepsis-3" recommends the use of the qSOFA score. This study seeks to validate each of these scores in a critical care setting and identify the score with the greatest predictive value for in hospital mortality. This comparative study included 188 patients determined to have sepsis. The information required for calculating SIRS, qSOFA, NEWS, and MEWS was extracted with careful history taking, patient assessment, and necessary investigations. The sensitivity, specificity, positive predictive value, negative predictive value, and area under the receiver-operating characteristic (AUROC) for each scoring system were measured for Intensive Care Unit (ICU) mortality. qSOFA had the highest specificity (73.61%) and the lowest sensitivity (36.02%). SIRS and NEWS scores had the highest sensitivity (77.78%) while SIRS had the lowest specificity (23.88%). The NEWS score had a specificity of 41.79%. MEWS score had an intermediate sensitivity of 76.36% and specificity of 63.91%. The ability to predict ICU mortality was highest for MEWS≥5 score (AUC 0.76; 95 % CI 0.68-0.84) compared to NEWS≥5 (AUC 0.61; 95% CI 0.52-0.71), qSOFA≥2 (AUC 0.56; 95% CI 0.46-0.66), and SIRS≥2 (AUC 0.49; 95% CI 0.37-0.61). By comparing HSROC curves, the MEWS score showed higher overall prognostic accuracy than SIRS, qSOFA and NEWS. Among qSOFA, SIRS, NEWS, and MEWS, the MEWS score showed the highest overall prognostic accuracy. However, no scoring system showed both high sensitivity and specificity for predicting the accuracy of mortality in patients with sepsis.
Global Clustering Coeffcient of the Join and Corona of Graphs
Authors: Damalerio Remarl Joseph M. , Eballe Rolito G. , Balingit Cherry Mae R. , Cabahug Jr. Isagani S. , Flores Ann Leslie V.
Published: January 2023

The global clustering coecient is one of the most useful indices in complex network analysis. It is another metric that somehow measures how close a graph from being a complete graph. In this paper we present some expressions for the global clustering coeffcient of the join G v H and corona G o H of arbitrary simple and undirected graphs G and H. As corollaries to these results, we will show that for the path Pm, cycle Cm, fan Fm, and wheel Wm, both Cc(Pm v Pm) and Cc(Cm v Cm) approach to 0 as m increases without bound, while Cc(Fm), Cc(Wm), Cc(Pm o Pm), and Cc(Cm o Cm) all approach to 2/3.
Genetic Variability Parameters and Character Associations among Yield Attributing Traits in Advanced Backcross Lines of Groundnut
Authors: Madhuri T. , Reddy V. Ram , Kumar C. V. Sameer , Rani Ch. V. Durga , Sravanti K.
Published: January 2023

Groundnut is currently a major industrial oilseed crop with good commercial significance. It is highly variable in phenotypic characters and thus it is important to investigate the variations and associations of these morphological features. 20 advanced Groundnut lines were planted in Randomized Complete Block Design along with parental lines and two checks and they were evaluated for 13 traits. Significant variations were revealed in analysis of variance. High GCV (20.21) coupled with high heritability (91.2) and GAM (39.77) were observed is plant height suggested that environment had lesser influence on the expression of this trait, as this character is governed by an additive gene action, making them effective for selection. High heritability combined with low GCV  and GAM were recorded in  oil content, days to 50 percent flowering, shelling outturn and number of secondary branches per plant revealed that non-additive genetic variation played a significant role in the expression of this trait thus, selection for this character would be inefficient. Pod yield per plant showed a positive and significant association with seed yield per plant, plant height, number of secondary branches per plant, pod length, pod width and number of pods per plant. Path coefficient analysis have revealed that positive direct effects towards pod yield per plant were reported for seed yield per plant, plant height, number of secondary branches per plant, pod length, pod width, and number of pods per plant. Thus the characters seed yield per plant, number of pods per plant, pod length and number of secondary branches per plant which are the most essential characters contributed significantly towards higher pod yield per plant.
Intercropping of Pulses and Oilseeds with Sisal (Agave sisalana) in North Coastal Zone of Andhra Pradesh
Authors: Sadhineni Malleswari , Sreelatha T. , Mitra S.
Published: January 2023

A field experiment was conducted during Kharif, Rabi, 2020 and 2021 under AINP on Jute and Allied Fibres at Agricultural Research Station farm, Amadalavalasa – ANGRAU, Andhra Pradesh. The experiment was conducted to study the suitability and economic feasibility of short duration pulses and oilseeds as intercrops in between paired row spaces of sisal plantation. Results revealed that, short duration pulses are more feasible than oilseeds as intercrops with increased productivity per unit area. Sisal fibre yield and intercrops yield was higher with pulse intercropping than oilseeds. Sisal fibre equivalent yield of intercrops varied between 1.87 q ha-1 in case of sisal + mustard to 5.28 q ha-1 in sisal + cowpea. The net returns per rupee invested was highest in sisal + cowpea (3.42) followed by sisal + greengram (3.34), sisal + rajma (3.05) and lowest among pulses was sisal + blackgram (2.83). While, among oilseeds, highest was in sisal + niger (2.90) followed by sisal + mustard (2.80) and sisal + sesame (2.65) compared to lowest in sole sisal (2.49). However, the total system productivity in terms of sisal fibre equivalent yield of cropping system varied between 14.05 q ha-1 in case of sole sisal to 21.64 q ha-1 in sisal + cowpea. The results inferred that, growing of short duration pulses in between paired row spaces of sisal could be efficiently used by growing short duration pulses like cowpea, greengram, rajma and blackgram for increased cropping system under sisal plantation.
Hybrid-Block Method for the Solution of Second Order Non-linear Differential Equations
Authors: James A.A. James , Ajileye G. , Ayinde A. M. , Dunama W.
Published: January 2023

The Duffing equation is one of the most unique and special non-linear differential equations in light of its many real-world applications in areas ranging from physics to economics. This paper sets out to investigate and study some existing numerical methods proposed by different authors over the years and subsequently develop an alternative computational method that can be used to solve duffing oscillator equations. This new method was developed by adopting the power series as the basis function and integrating it within quarter-step intervals using the interpolation and collocation approach. The analysis of the new method was carried out and found to be zero-stable, consistent, and convergent. Four duffing problems were used to test the efficiency of the new method, and the results were found to be computationally reliable.
Influence of Employees Motivational Factors on Total Quality Management Implementation in the Construction Industry
Authors: Ansah Samuel Kwame , Tekpe Emmanuel
Published: January 2023

This study determines the employees’ motivational factors and their influence on Total Quality Management (TQM) implementation in the construction industry. The instrument used in the study was a survey questionnaire with a sample size of 536 out of the 641 questionnaires which were administered to population consists of top management in the Ghanaian construction industry. The analysis was carried out using Exploratory Factor Analysis (EFA) technique. The study identified the following motivational factors that influence the successful implementation of TQM in the construction industry: Teamwork, Recognition of employees, Conducive working environment, Employee involvement in TQM activities, Education and training/re-training of staff, Salary/position promotion, Bonus scheme, Employee commitment, Employee reward, and Availability of a suggestion forum for employees. The findings revealed that all the motivational factors considered in the study have a high influence on TQM implementation in the construction industry. The study therefore suggests that managers should consider these identified motivational factors when applying the principle of Total Quality Management in the construction industry. Consequently, employees that are motivated with these identified motivational factors will help to achieve successful implementation of TQM in the construction industry and subsequently give their best effort to accomplish the job.
Detective Learning of the Concepts of Acids, Bases and Salts in Physical Science by Ninth-grade Students using a Metacognitive Instructional Strategy: A Quasi-Experimental Study
Authors: Uddin Md Jamal , Panda Bhujendra Nath , Agarwal Prakash Chandra
Published: January 2023

Efforts were made to verify the effect of metacognitive scaffolding as an instructional strategy on learning outcomes related to concepts of acids, bases, and salts for ninth-grade pupils in physical science. A quasi-experimental pretest-posttest design was employed. One hundred and seven (107) students from two government-sponsored schools chosen using a purposive sampling technique in the city of Kolkata, West Bengal, India, were sampled. For the experiment, 55 learners in the experimental group and 52 in the control group were selected. Only the experimental group of learners received treatment via metacognitive scaffolding. To obtain data, the researcher administered a self-developed and standardised criteria test (with a reliability coefficient of 0.86 and a validity of 0.93) and a reaction scale. For data analysis, one-way ANCOVA, percentiles, means, standard deviations, and coefficients of variation were applied. Results of the study demonstrated that the students who received treatment acquired better learning outcomes than the others. Furthermore, treatment recipients responded favourably to the use of metacognitive scaffolding when learning physical science.
Impact of Technological Innovation for Clean and Green Production on the Environment in Jammu and Kashmir
Authors: Kumar Bushan
Published: January 2023

Mankind in recent times has realized the importance of environment and the current threat to it. A large portion of the innovation has now been applied towards the protection of environment. The public policy of the government has been instrumental in realizing the goals of Environment preservation and protection. The paper takes an attempt to highlight the key innovation in process making impact on environment. The study evaluates policy instruments for fostering environmentally beneficial technology change and makes recommendations for their creation and application. These policies that emphasize learning and alignment are an addition to those that change the frame circumstances, not a substitute for them. For an ecological modernization to be achieved, both types of policies are required. Sample of 197 people from Jammu state that includes experts from different fields were surveyed to know the impact of technological innovation for clean and green production on the environment. It is found that there is a significant impact of technological innovation for clean and green production on the environment.
Households’ Agribusiness Status and Food Security in Burkina Faso
Authors: Kini Janvier
Published: January 2023

Food insecurity remains a major challenge worldwide. The political discourse calls for increasing agricultural productivity through agribusiness as a key driver of food and nutrition security. This is because the dominant agricultural system, that is, small farms, appears inefficient. However, the policy definition of agribusiness may exclude actors who fit into rural households in low-income countries. This study contributes to the literature by comparing the relationship between agribusiness and non-agribusiness households and by focusing on how this affects their respective food security. It develops an analytical framework that helps decision makers redirect agribusiness policies by clearly considering rural households as potential agribusinesses. Using a dataset covering the entire rural area of Burkina Faso, this study adopts an endogenous sample selection method to define the agribusiness status of these rural agricultural households. An instrumental variable (IV) probit regression was used to analyse the determining factors of agribusiness status, as it addresses the problem of selection bias or endogeneity. A simple linear regression was then used through which a multidimensional food security index was regressed over agribusiness and non-agribusiness household characteristics. The study finds that in rural areas, the level of agricultural technologies adopted, the input cost, and the quantity of family labour used in farming are among the determining factors of a household’s agribusiness. Land size and the quantity of sales within a household are key determinants of the level of food security. As the level of food security in agribusiness households is (two times) high as in non-agribusiness households, this study recognises the relevance of targeting agribusiness as an enabler for achieving food security. This paper proposes that decision-makers extend their definition of agribusiness by including rural non-legally recognised agribusiness actors to increase fiscal income. This study is the first to address agribusiness and food security issues in Burkina Faso.
Modeling scatter through sides of island blocks used for intensity‐modulated bolus electron conformal therapy
Authors: Scotto Joseph G. , Pitcher Garrett M. , Carver Robert L. , Erhart Kevin J. , McGuffey Andrew S. , Hogstrom Kenneth R.
Published: January 2023

Purpose

Passive Radiotherapy Intensity Modulators for Electrons (PRIME) devices are comprised of cylindrical tungsten island blocks imbedded in a machinable foam slab within the patient's cutout. Intensity‐modulated bolus electron conformal therapy (IM‐BECT) uses PRIME devices to reduce dose heterogeneity caused by the irregular bolus surface. Heretofore, IM‐BECT dose calculations used the pencil beam redefinition algorithm (PBRA) assuming perfect collimation. This study investigates modeling electron scatter into and out the sides of island blocks.

Methods

Dose distributions were measured in a water phantom at 7, 13, and 20 MeV for devices having nominal intensity reduction factors of 1.000 (foam only), 0.937, 0.812, and 0.688, corresponding to nominal island block diameters (dnom) of 0.158, 0.273, and 0.352 cm, respectively. Pencil beam theory derived an effective diameter (dIS) to account for in‐scattered electrons as a function of dnom and beam energy (Ep,0). However, for out‐scattered electrons, an effective diameter (dmod) was estimated by best fitting measured data.

Results

In the modulated region (under island blocks, depth < R90), modified PBRA‐calculated dose distributions showed 2%/2 mm passing rates for dnom = 0.158, 0.273, and 0.352 cm of (100%, 100%, 100%) at 7 MeV, (100%, 100%, 93.5%) at 13 MeV, and (99.8%, 85.4%, and 71.5%) at 20 MeV. The largest dose differences (≤ 6%) occurred at the highest energy (20 MeV), largest dnom, shallowest depths (≤ 2 cm), and on central axis.

Conclusions

An equation for modeling island block scatter, dmod(dnom, Ep,0), has been developed for use in the PBRA, insignificantly impacting calculation time. Although inaccuracy sometimes exceeded our 2%/2 mm criteria, it could be clinically acceptable, as superficial dose differences often fall inside the bolus. Also, patient PRIME devices are expected to have fewer large diameter island blocks than did test devices. Inaccuracies are attributed to out‐scattered electrons having energy spectra different than the primary beams.
Development of a three‐dimensional dose evaluation method for computed tomography
Authors: Katsuda Toshizo , Gotanda Rumi , Gotanda Tatsuhiro , Kuwano Tadao , Tanki Nobuyoshi , Yabunaka Kouichi
Published: January 2023

During a single scan using computed tomography, an X‐ray tube orbits along a 360°‐circular path around the patient. A scan obtained using the half‐cylindrical type phantoms with a radiochromic film sandwiched in between reveals a pixel value map illustrating the two‐dimensional (2D) dose distribution. A three‐dimensional (3D) dose distribution can be obtained with a 360° rotation of the 2D dose map. This study evaluates the concept and methodology of creating a 3D dose map to develop a phantom with a radiochromic film for obtaining the 3D dose distribution. The coronal and axial plane dose distributions were also evaluated. A single scan computed tomography image obtained using a half‐cylindrical type of acrylic phantom with a sandwiched radiochromic film was studied. The diameters of the phantoms were 10 and 16 cm, and their lengths were 30 cm. A 2D image of the XR‐QA2 film was obtained using an image scanner and image processing software. A red channel image was used to obtain the 3D dose distribution using a computing platform. A pseudo color was applied to the red channel image from which cross‐sectional color images were obtained. Half of the cross‐sectional pixel data were rotated by 360° to generate the data for each axial plane. The image created was saved, and a 3D pixel value map was constructed. The dose measurement procedure for the 3D dose distribution was developed using half‐cylindrical acrylic phantoms with a radiochromic film.
Modulation of Charge Trapping by Island‐like Single‐Atom Cobalt Catalyst for Enhanced Photo‐Fenton‐Like reaction
Authors: Qian Mengying , Wu Xi‐Lin , Lu Meichi , Huang Lizhou , Li Wenxuan , Lin Hongjun , Chen Jianrong , Wang Shaobin , Duan Xiaoguang
Published: January 2023

Composites‐based photocatalysis relies on the interfacial electron transfer between the metallic cocatalyst and photosensitizer (the semiconductor) to realize spatial separation of charge carriers. Herein, an ingenious heterojunction between Co‐CN single atom catalysts (SACs) and g‐C3N4 is constructed for heterogeneous photo‐Fenton‐like reactions. Driven by built‐in electric field across the heterojunctions, the separation and migration of the photogenerated charge carriers is promoted, leading to the fast electron transfer from the g‐C3N4 to the Co‐CN SACs. Theoretical calculations and transient absorption spectroscopy reveal the modulated charge transfer and trapping in the SA‐Co‐CN/g‐C3N4 heterostructure, resulting in the remarkably enhanced generation of reactive oxygen species via peroxymonosulfate activation under light irradiation. This ingenious SA‐Co‐CN/g‐C3N4/PMS/vis system is efficient for the oxidation of various antibiotics with high removal efficiency (>98%), a wide operating pH range (pH 3–11) and excellent stability in long‐term operation. This study provides a new tactic for rational design of SACs‐based heterojunctions to bridge photocatalysis and heterogeneous catalysis, attaining superior photoredox activity via interfacial coupling.
Latch Applicator for Efficient Delivery of Dissolving Microneedles Based on Rapid Release of Elastic Strain Energy by Thumb Force
Authors: Kang Geonwoo , Kim Minkyung , Yang Huisuk , Shin Jiwoo , Sim Jeeho , Ahn Hyeri , Jang Mingyu , Kim Youseong , Min Hye Su , Jung Hyungil
Published: January 2023

Dissolving microneedle (DMN) is an attractive alternative to parenteral and enteral drug administration owing to its painless self‐administration and safety due to non‐generation of medical waste. For reproducible and efficient DMN administration, various DMN application methods, such as weights, springs, and electromagnetic devices, have been studied. However, these applicators have complex structures that are complicated to use and high production costs. In this study, a latch applicator that consists of only simple plastic parts and operates via thumb force without any external complex device is developed. Protrusion‐shaped latches and impact distances are designed to accumulate thumb force energy through elastic deformation and to control impact velocity. The optimized latch applicator with a pressing force of 25 N and an impact velocity of 5.9 m s−1 fully inserts the drug‐loaded tip of the two‐layered DMN into the skin. In an ovalbumin immunization test, DMN with the latch applicator shows a significantly higher IgG antibody production rate than that of intramuscular injection. The latch applicator, which provides effective DMN insertion and a competitive price compared with conventional syringes, has great potential to improve delivery of drugs, including vaccines.
High‐Throughput Screening Assisted Discovery of a Stable Layered Anti‐Ferromagnetic Semiconductor: CdFeP2Se6
Authors: Kothakonda Manish , Zhu Yanglin , Guan Yingdong , He Jingyang , Kidd Jamin , Zhang Ruiqi , Ning Jinliang , Gopalan Venkatraman , Xie Weiwei , Mao Zhiqiang , Sun Jianwei
Published: January 2023

Recent advances in 2D magnetism have heightened interest in layered magnetic materials due to their potential for spintronics. In particular, layered semiconducting antiferromagnets exhibit intriguing low‐dimensional semiconducting behavior with both charge and spin as carrier controls. However, synthesis of these compounds is challenging and remains rare. Here, first‐principles based high‐throughput search is conducted to screen potentially stable mixed metal phosphorous trichalcogenides (MM′P2X6, where M and M′ are transition metals and X is a chalcogenide) that have a wide range of tunable bandgaps and interesting magnetic properties. Among the potential candidates, a stable semiconducting layered magnetic material, CdFeP2Se6, that exhibits a short‐range antiferromagnetic order at TN = 21 K with an indirect bandgap of 2.23 eV is successfully synthesized . This work suggests that high‐throughput screening assisted synthesis can be an effective method for layered magnetic materials discovery.
Phototheranostic Agents Based on Nonionic Heptamethine Cyanine for Realizing Synergistic Cancer Phototherapy
Authors: Liu Tianguang , Chen Yanli , Wang Huizhe , Cui Mengyuan , Zhang Jiaqi , Zhang Wancun , Wang Peng
Published: January 2023

Asymmetrical heptamethine cyanine with near‐infrared (NIR) absorption is used for photothermal therapy (PTT) of cancer. Aiming to overcome the drawbacks caused by the high temperature of PTT, the development of asymmetrical heptamethine cyanine with photothermal and photodynamic properties is still an attractive strategy. Different from the traditional method of the heavy atom effect, in this work, the carboxyl or sulfonic groups are introduced into the indole ring or branch chain of asymmetrical heptamethine cyanine to afford a series of new phototherapy agents. After being encapsulated by DSPE‐PEG2000, BSS‐Et NPs exhibit robust photostability, efficient reactive oxygen species generation (49%), and excellent photothermal conversion efficiency of about 37.6% under 808 nm laser irradiation. BSS‐Et NPs possess passive tumor‐targeting properties in vivo to not only visualize the tumor by NIR fluorescence imaging but also eliminate the tumor without any recurrence by photodynamic therapy and PTT synergistic therapy under laser irradiation. In addition, benefitting from the characteristics of organic small molecules, they can be metabolized quickly through the liver without inducing toxicity in the whole body. In general, this study provides a new direction for the development of multifunctional phototherapy agents for cancer treatment.
Artificial Neuronal Devices Based on Emerging Materials: Neuronal Dynamics and Applications
Authors: Liu Hefei , Qin Yuan , Chen Hung‐Yu , Wu Jiangbin , Ma Jiahui , Du Zhonghao , Wang Nan , Zou Jingyi , Lin Sen , Zhang Xu , Zhang Yuhao , Wang Han
Published: January 2023

Artificial neuronal devices are critical building blocks of neuromorphic computing systems and currently the subject of intense research motivated by application needs from new computing technology and more realistic brain emulation. Researchers have proposed a range of device concepts that can mimic neuronal dynamics and functions. Although the switching physics and device structures of these artificial neurons are largely different, their behaviors can be described by several neuron models in a more unified manner. In this paper, the reports of artificial neuronal devices based on emerging volatile switching materials are reviewed from the perspective of the demonstrated neuron models, with a focus on the neuronal functions implemented in these devices and the exploitation of these functions for computational and sensing applications. Furthermore, the neuroscience inspirations and engineering methods to enrich the neuronal dynamics that remain to be implemented in artificial neuronal devices and networks toward realizing the full functionalities of biological neurons are discussed.
Arming Ru with Oxygen‐Vacancy‐Enriched RuO2 Sub‐Nanometer Skin Activates Superior Bifunctionality for pH‐Universal Overall Water Splitting
Authors: Li Yapeng , Wang Wentao , Cheng Mingyu , Feng Yafei , Han Xiao , Qian Qizhu , Zhu Yin , Zhang Genqiang
Published: January 2023

Water electrolysis has been expected to assimilate the renewable yet intermediate energy‐derived electricity for green H2 production. However, current benchmark anodic catalysts of Ir/Ru‐based compounds suffer severely from poor dissolution resistance. Herein, an effective modification strategy is proposed by arming a sub‐nanometer RuO2 skin with abundant oxygen vacancies to the interconnected Ru clusters/carbon hybrid microsheet (denoted as Ru@V‐RuO2/C HMS), which can not only inherit the high hydrogen evolution reaction (HER) activity of the Ru, but more importantly, activate the superior activity toward the oxygen evolution reaction (OER) in both acid and alkaline conditions. Outstandingly, it can achieve an ultralow overpotential of 176/201 mV for OER and 46/6 mV for the HER to reach 10 mA cm−2 in acidic and alkaline solution, respectively. Inspiringly, the overall water splitting can be driven with an ultrasmall cell voltage of 1.467/1.437 V for 10 mA cm−2 in 0.5 m H2SO4/1.0 m KOH, respectively. Density functional theory calculations reveal that armoring the oxygen‐vacancy‐enriched RuO2 exoskeleton can cooperatively alter the interfacial electronic structure and make the adsorption behavior of hydrogen and oxygen intermediates much close to the ideal level, thus simultaneously speeding up the hydrogen evolution kinetics and decreasing the energy barrier of oxygen release.
Formation and Applications in Electronic Devices of Lattice‐Aligned Gallium Oxynitride Nanolayer on Gallium Nitride
Authors: Chen Junting , Zhao Junlei , Feng Sirui , Zhang Li , Cheng Yan , Liao Hang , Zheng Zheyang , Chen Xiaolong , Gao Zhen , Chen Kevin J. , Hua Mengyuan
Published: January 2023

Gallium nitride (GaN), a promising alternative semiconductor to Si, is widely used in photoelectronic and electronic technologies. However, the vulnerability of the GaN surface is a critical restriction that hinders the development of GaN‐based devices, especially in terms of device stability and reliability. In this study, this challenge is overcome by converting the GaN surface into a gallium oxynitride (GaON) epitaxial nanolayer through an in situ two‐step “oxidation–reconfiguration” process. The O plasma treatment overcomes the chemical inertness of the GaN surface, and sequential thermal annealing manipulates the kinetic–thermodynamic reaction pathways to create a metastable GaON nanolayer with a wurtzite lattice. The GaN‐derived GaON nanolayer is a tailored structure for surface reinforcement and possesses several advantages, including a wide bandgap, high thermodynamic stability, and large valence band offset with a GaN substrate. These physical properties can be further leveraged to enhance the performance of GaN‐based devices in various applications, such as power systems, complementary logic integrated circuits, photoelectrochemical water splitting, and ultraviolet photoelectric conversion.
Polymer Solar Cells with Active Layer Thickness Compatible with Scalable Fabrication Processes: A Meta‐Analysis
Authors: Camaioni Nadia , Carbonera Chiara , Ciammaruchi Laura , Corso Gianni , Mwaura Jeremiah , Po Riccardo , Tinti Francesca
Published: January 2023

Organic photovoltaics (OPV) has been considered for a long time a promising emerging solar technology. Currently, however, market shares of OPV are practically non‐existent. A detailed meta‐analysis of the literature published until mid‐2021 is presented, focusing on one of the remaining issues that need to be addressed to translate the recent remarkable progress, obtained in devices’ performance at lab‐scale level, into the requirements able to boost the manufacturing‐scale production. Namely, the active layer's thickness is referred to, which, together with device efficiency and stability, represents one of the biggest challenges of this technological research field. Papers describing solar cells containing non‐fullerene acceptor (NFA) binary and ternary blends, as well as NFA plus fullerene acceptor (FA) ternary blends are reviewed. The common ground of all analyzed devices is their high‐thickness active layers, compatible with large‐area deposition techniques. By defining a new figure of merit to discuss the OPV thickness (thickness tolerance, TT), it is found that this parameter is not affected by the chemical family's nature of the active blend components. On the other hand, the analysis suggests that there are promising strategies to improve the TT, which are discussed in the conclusion section.
Plasmonic Resonance Enabling 2D Perovskite Single Crystal to Detect Telecommunication Light
Authors: Xi Yuying , Wang Xinchao , Ji Ting , Li Guohui , Shi Linlin , Liu Yucheng , Wang Wenyan , Ma Jiaqi , Liu Shengzhong (Frank) , Hao Yuying , Xiao Liantuan , Cui Yanxia
Published: January 2023

High performance photodetectors (PDs) based on two‐dimensional (2D) perovskite single crystals (SCs) have been demonstrated with improved stability with respect to those based on their three‐dimensional counterparts. However, due to their large energy band gaps, response of 2D perovskite PDs is limited in the ultraviolet and visible range. In this study, a broadband PD based on (PEA)2PbI4 (PEA = C6H5(CH2)2NH3+) 2D perovskite SC is demonstrated by incorporating thermally annealed Au nanoparticles (NPs). Introduction of Au NPs brings forward enhancement in photocurrent over a broadband wavelength range with the dark current being maintained. In the light absorption range of (PEA)2PbI4, photocurrent enhancement is owing to the enhanced localized electric field induced by Au NPs. Beyond the (PEA)2PbI4 absorption range of 650–900 nm, the photocurrent enhancement factors reach 1000% in average, which arises from the hot holes produced by Au NPs. It is also emphasized that the response wavelength of the PD has been extended to the telecommunication band; specifically, the light signals at 1310 nm can be converted to stable on‐off electric signals by the plasmonic PD. This work promotes the development of broadband, sensitive solution‐processed perovskite PDs, providing a promising strategy for realizing photodetection in the telecommunication range.
Cerium Oxide Nanoparticles‐Based Optical Biosensors for Biomedical Applications
Authors: Wang Qiyue , Wang Bingzhe , Shi Dao , Li Fangyuan , Ling Daishun
Published: January 2023

Optical sensing methods are especially attractive due to their low cost, rapid detection, and high sensitivity. Due to multiple enzyme‐mimetic activities, fast electron transfer capability, and biological molecules affinity, cerium oxide nanoparticle (CNP) represents a promising candidate to be used as the recognition and/or transducer element in optical biosensors. Despite the significant achievements of CNPs as therapeutic agents, the applications of CNPs as sensing elements are still in their infancy. To deepen the understanding and promote the development of CNP‐based optical biosensing, in this review, the ingenious design and fabrication of CNP‐based optical sensors are introduced, and the underlying sensing mechanisms are in‐depth analyzed. Furthermore, recent advances in CNP‐based optical sensing strategies for biomarker detection, disease diagnosis, and therapy are intensively discussed. Finally, current challenges and potential solutions of CNP‐based optical sensors for effective in vivo sensing are outlined.
Exploring the role of empowerment in Black women's HIV and AIDS activism in the United States: An integrative literature review
Authors: Rutledge Jaleah D.
Published: January 2023

Black women in the United States continue to be disproportionately affected by the Human Immunodeficiency Virus (HIV)/Acquired Immunodeficiency Syndrome (AIDS) epidemic. HIV/AIDS activism among Black women for Black women may be one solution to reduce the disparate rates of HIV/AIDS among Black women. However, little is known about what processes and experiences prompt Black women to participate in HIV/AIDS activism. In this paper, I aim to identify mechanisms of empowerment for Black women to engage in HIV/AIDS activism. I draw upon empowerment theory as a theoretical framework to guide analysis of the literature and to offer a strengths‐based perspective on Black women's efforts to reduce the spread of HIV/AIDS. An extensive literature search was conducted to identify studies of Black women's participation in HIV/AIDS activism. The search yielded 11 studies that were included for review. Synthesis of the literature indicated the following analytic themes as mechanisms of empowerment for Black women to participate in HIV/AIDS activism: relationships and interactions with others, critical awareness, self‐reflection, and spirituality. Article limitations, suggestions for future research, and implications for social change are also discussed. Overall, findings from this study suggest that there are unique mechanisms that facilitate psychological empowerment and prompt Black women's entry into HIV/AIDS activism.
Diffusion effects of a sexual violence prevention program leveraging youth–adult partnerships
Authors: Edwards Katie M. , Banyard Victoria L. , Waterman Emily A. , Simon Briana , Hopfauf Skyler , Mitchell Kimberly J. , Jones Lisa M. , Mercer Kollar Laura M. , Valente Thomas W.
Published: January 2023

The purpose of the current study was to examine the diffusion effects of a youth‐led sexual violence prevention program (i.e., Youth Voices in Prevention [Youth VIP]). Specifically, social network analysis was used to measure the extent to which Youth VIP changed behaviors for 1172 middle and high school youth who did not attend program events but were friends with Youth VIP participants and completed the first and final survey (approximately 2 years apart). Findings suggest that there was considerable interpersonal communication about Youth VIP among the students generated by program participation. Specifically, youth with friends who participated in Youth VIP were more likely to report hearing their friends talk about Youth VIP and reported talking to their friends about Youth VIP compared with those not connected to Youth VIP participants. However, there were no diffusion effects found for behavioral outcomes (i.e., bystander intervention behavior, violence victimization, and perpetration). Given the mixed findings, further research is needed to determine the extent to which youth‐led sexual violence prevention initiatives lead to changes in broader community‐wide changes in youths’ behaviors.
Molecular Dynamics Simulations Guide Chimeragenesis and Engineered Control of Chemoselectivity in Diketopiperazine Dimerases
Authors: Shende Vikram V. , Harris Natalia R. , Sanders Jacob N. , Newmister Sean A. , Khatri Yogan , Movassaghi Mohammad , Houk Kendall N. , Sherman David H.
Published: January 2023

In the biosynthesis of the tryptophan‐linked dimeric diketopiperazines (DKPs), cytochromes P450 selectively couple DKP monomers to generate a variety of intricate and isomeric frameworks. To determine the molecular basis for selectivity of these biocatalysts we obtained a high‐resolution crystal structure of selective Csp2−N bond forming dimerase, AspB. Overlay of the AspB structure onto C−C and C−N bond forming homolog NzeB revealed no significant structural variance to explain their divergent chemoselectivities. Molecular dynamics (MD) simulations identified a region of NzeB with increased conformational flexibility relative to AspB, and interchange of this region along with a single active site mutation led to a variant that catalyzes exclusive C−N bond formation. MD simulations also suggest that intermolecular C−C or C−N bond formation results from a change in mechanism, supported experimentally through use of a substrate mimic.
An eco‐friendly matrix‐augmented fluorescence spectroscopic approach for the analysis of mitoxantrone, an oncogenic therapy; application to the dosage form and biological matrices
Authors: Hamad Ahmed A. , Hassan Yasser F. , Eltoukhi Walid E. , Derayea Sayed M. , Abourehab Mohammed A. S. , Mohammed Bassam S.
Published: January 2023

Mitoxantrone (MXN) is a synthetic anthracenedione oncogenic therapy. It is often prescribed as an anticancer agent to manage a variety of cancers. A green, fast, and easy fluorimetric technique for the assay of MXN as a topoisomerase type II enzyme suppressor. An investigation of MXN's fluorescence behavior in various media and solvents constituted the basis for this new technique. Methanol was shown to enhance the intrinsic fluorescence considerably. After excitation at 610 nm, the highest fluorescence intensity was found at 675 nm. Various experimental parameters, such as media, solvents, and pH levels, were tested and adjusted. ICH (International Conference on Harmonization) guidelines were followed when validating procedures. It was possible to achieve linearity in the 0.02–1.50 μg ml−1 with the method. The sensitivity (in terms of limit of detection and limit of quantification) was 0.003 and 0.008 μg ml−1, indicating low toxicity. As a result, the current technology has a remarkable recovery for detecting residues in diverse bodily fluids. Also, the quantum yield was estimated for the designed system. Finally, the method was rated by eco‐scale scoring.
Melatonin ameliorates arsenic‐induced cardiotoxicity through the regulation of the Sirt1/Nrf2 pathway in rats
Authors: Yarmohammadi Fatemeh , Barangi Samira , Aghaee‐Bakhtiari Seyed Hamid , Hosseinzadeh Hossein , Moosavi Zahra , Reiter Russel J. , Hayes A. Wallace , Mehri Soghra , Karimi Gholamreza
Published: January 2023

Chronic arsenic (As) exposure, mainly as a result of drinking contaminated water, is associated with cardiovascular diseases. Mitochondrial dysfunction, oxidative stress, inflammation, apoptosis, and autophagy have been suggested as the molecular etiology of As cardiotoxicity. Melatonin (Mel) is a powerful antioxidant. Mel improves diabetic cardiomyopathy, cardiac remodeling, and heart failure. Following pre‐treatment with Mel (10, 20, or 30 mg/kg/day i.p.), rats were orally gavaged with As (15 mg/kg/day) for 28 days. Electrocardiographic findings showed that Mel decreased the As‐mediated QT interval prolongation. The effects of As on cardiac levels of glutathione (GSH) and malondialdehyde (MDA) were reversed by Mel pretreatment. Mel also modulated the Sirt1 and Nrf2 expressions promoted by As. Mel down‐regulated autophagy markers such as Beclin‐1 expression and the LC3‐II/I ratio. Moreover, the cardiac expression of cleaved‐caspase‐3 and Bax/Bcl‐2 ratio was decreased by Mel pretreatment. Reduced expression of miR‐34a and miR‐144 by As were reversed by Mel. The histopathological changes of cardiac injury associated with As exposure was moderated by Mel. Mel may improve As‐induced cardiac dysfunction through anti‐oxidative, anti‐apoptotic, and anti‐autophagic mechanisms.