bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Water and sediment fluxes in Mediterranean mountainous regions:
Comprehensive dataset for hydro-sedimentological analyses and
modelling in a mesoscale catchment (River Isábena, NE Spain)
Authors: Francke Till , Foerster Saskia , Brosinsky Arlena , Sommerer Erik , Lopez-Tarazon Jose A. , Güntner Andreas , Batalla Ramon J. , Bronstert Axel
Published: November 2017

Abstract. A comprehensive hydro-sedimentological dataset for the Isábena catchment, NE Spain, for the period 2010–2016 is presented to analyse water and sediment fluxes in a Mediterranean meso-scale catchment. The dataset includes rainfall data from twelve rain gauges distributed within the study area complemented by meteorological data of twelve official meteo-stations. It comprises discharge data derived from water stage measurements as well as suspended sediment concentrations (SSC) at six gauging stations of the River Isábena and its sub-catchments. Soil spectroscopic data from 351 suspended sediment samples and 152 soil samples were collected to characterize sediment source regions and sediment properties via fingerprinting analyses. The Isábena catchment (445 km2) is located in the Southern Central Pyrenees ranging from 450 m to 2,720 m a.s.l., together with a pronounced topography this leads to distinct temperature and precipitation gradients. The River Isábena shows marked discharge variations and high sediment yields causing severe siltation problems in the downstream Barasona Reservoir. Main sediment source are badland areas located on Eocene marls that are well connected to the river network. The dataset features a wide set of parameters in a high spatial and temporal resolution suitable for advanced process understanding of water and sediment fluxes, their origin and connectivity, sediment budgeting and for evaluating and further developing hydro-sedimentological models in Mediterranean meso-scale mountainous catchments. The dataset is available at http://doi.org/10.5880/fidgeo.2017.003.
Phytoextraction and the economic perspective of phytomining of heavy metals
Authors: Ali Amjad , Guo Di , Mahar Amanullah , Ping Wang , Wahid Fazli , Shen Feng , Li Ronghua , Zhang Zengqiang
Published: November 2017

Abstract. The world rapid growing population, expanding economics and anthropogenic activities contribute to heavy metals pollution, which are non-biodegradable, persistent and threaten the environment. The rising level of heavy metals in environment emphasizes on indigenous technologies, but conventional technologies are too expensive, laborious and result in secondary pollution. Phytoremediation/phytoextraction is a plant based technology, which is environmental friendly, economic and effective for heavy metals remediation. The global market of phytoremediation is 34–54 billion US$ and is expanding in the developed countries, providing an opportunity for this green technology. Suitability of phytoextraction depends on biomass production, accumulation rate and tolerance to target metals. Metals uptake can be enhanced by exploring effective hyperaccumulators, expanding phytomining operations and extending molecular studies on accumulation mechanism, tolerance and sensitivity of heavy metals. Hyperaccumulator plants achieve greater performance at low cost than conventional technologies for in situ metal removal. Phytomining generate revenue and provide new research area for biofortification of food and feed, biofuel and metal rich biochar production in future. This review highlights the sources of heavy metals and its effects on plants, enhancing phytoremediation process and increasing economic benefits of phytomining.
Effects of spent mushroom compost application on the physicochemical properties of a degraded soil
Authors: Gümüş İlknur , Şeker Cevdet
Published: November 2017

Abstract. Under field and laboratory conditions, the application of organic amendments has generally shown an improvement in soil physicochemical properties. Here, spent mushroom compost (SMC) is proposed as a suitable organic amendment for soil structure restoration. Our study assessed the impact of SMC on the physicochemical properties of a weak-structured and physically degraded soil. The approach involved the establishment of a pot experiment with SMC applications into soil (control, 0.5, 1, 2, 4 and 8 %). Soils were incubated at field capacity (−33 kPa) for 21, 42, and 62 days under laboratory conditions. SMC applications into the soil significantly increased the aggregate stability (AS) and decreased the modulus of rupture. The application of SMC at rates of 1, 2, 4, and 8 % significantly increased the total nitrogen and soil organic carbon contents of the degraded soil at all incubation periods (p < 0.05). The results obtained in this study indicate that the application of SMC can improve soil physicochemical properties, which may benefit farmers, land managers, and mushroom growers.
Assessment of the Greenland ice sheet – atmosphere feedbacks for
the next century with a regional atmospheric model fully coupled to
an ice sheet model
Authors: Le clec'h Sebastien , Fettweis Xavier , Quiquet Aurelien , Dumas Christophe , Kageyama Masa , Charbit Sylvie , Wyard Coraline , Ritz Catherine
Published: November 2017

Abstract. In the context of global warming, the projected Greenland sea level rise contribution is mainly controlled by the interactions between the Greenland ice sheet (GrIS) and the atmosphere, in particular through the temperature and surface mass balance – elevation feedback. In order to evaluate the importance of these feedbacks, we used three methods to represent the interactions between the GrIS model GRISLI and the polar regional atmosphere model MAR, under the RCP 8.5 scenario from 2020 to 2150. In the simplest method, there is no coupling, MAR computes varying atmospheric conditions using a constant GrIS geometry (topography and extent) set to observations and GRISLI is forced by these results. The second is a one-way coupling method which represents the interactions by correcting offline the MAR outputs to account for topography changes computed by GRISLI. The third method is a full two-way coupling in which the ice sheet topography and extent seen by the atmospheric model evolve after each ice sheet model time step. Due to the ice sheet elevation feedback, the two-way coupling method amplifies the projected decrease in surface mass balance, the increase in surface temperature and the GrIS surface thinning for the coastal regions, compared to the no coupling method. Compared to both the one-way and the no coupling methods, the two-way coupling allows the changes of fine scale processes to be represented, such as the increase in katabatic winds over the coast. As a consequence, in 2150, the two-way coupling method computes a GrIS melting contribution to sea level rise 9.3 % larger than the no coupling method, and 2.5 % larger than the one-way coupling methods. After 150 years, the GrIS extent seen by MAR in the two-way method is 52 400 km2 lower than with the no coupling method. Furthermore, in 2150, using a fix ice sheet mask, as in the no coupling method, overestimates by 24 % the SLR contribution from SMB compared to the use of the ice sheet mask as simulated in the two-way method. Beyond the century time-scale, a two-way method becomes necessary in order to avoid an underestimation of the projected ice sheet volume, topography and ice extent reduction. The one-way coupling method however seems to be sufficient to represent the interactions for projections until the end of the 21st century. The no coupling method always underestimates the projected ice sheet volume loss significantly due to the lack of feedback between the GrIS and the atmosphere.
Preparing For Using Augmentative and Alternative Communication in Classrooms: Pre-Service Special Education Teachers’ Perceptions
Authors: Aldabas Rashed A.
Published: November 2017

The purpose of this study was to examine pre-service special education teachers’ perceptions regarding their skills and knowledge about the use of AAC, with respect to how well it prepared them to use AAC with students who have severe communication impairments. A descriptive research design was used to address the research questions. A total of 27 special education pre-service teachers (emphasized whether Early Childhood Special Education or Intellectual Disabilities) completed an online survey. The findings indicate that participants responded positively about their knowledge, ability, skills, and attitudes about teaching and using AAC for students with severe communication disabilities. However, the results found that the majority of participants felt their preparation programs were not adequate in preparing them to implement and use AAC in classrooms. Although the participants felt more confident in their ability to teach students who use AAC, the general consensus was that more preparation training would be helpful in the classroom and with the students themselves. More implications for practice and recommendations for future research are discussed.
Beyond Striga Management: Learning Videos Enhanced Farmers’ Knowledge on Climate-Smart Agriculture in Mali
Authors: Zoundji Gerard C. , Vodouhe Simplice D. , Okry Florent , Bentley Jeffery W. , Tossou Rigobert C.
Published: November 2017

This paper assesses the climate smart agricultural practices triggered by learning videos on integrated striga management, soil fertility and cost and benefit evaluation practices. Using household head interviews and focus group discussions, this study revealed that farmers have similar perceptions of climate change and related impacts in video-villages and in non-video-villages. However, farmers’ observation of climate change and related impacts are influenced by gender; men perceived more climate change and related impacts than women. In non-video villages, few respondents adopted crop rotation, intercropping, crop diversification, improved short-cycle seed varieties and zaï techniques as climate change adaptation strategies. Videos contribute more to the adoption of crop rotation, intercropping and fertilizer application for men than women. Videos on accounting (managing money) enable more women than men to enhance their cost-benefit evaluation practices for income improvement. During the interviews, women farmers in video-villages were eager to demonstrate their knowledge about cost and benefit evaluation. We also found that the yield of sorghum, millet and maize is high in video-villages and low in non-video-villages. Thus, using videos as extension tool is suitable for knowledge development and leads to the high adoption of climate-smart agricultural practices for food security.
El arquitecto: formación, competencias y práctica profesional
Authors: Puig-Pey Clavería Ana María
Published: November 2017

La enseñanza de la Arquitectura debe adecuarse a los cambios que se producen en la sociedad y que representan nuevas maneras de ejercicio profesional. Los Arquitectos deben poder responder a un nuevo abanico de perfiles profesionales que les ofrece el mercado laboral. El actual sistema formativo permite dicha adecuación a lo largo de toda la vida profesional del Arquitecto dada su estructura de grado y masters. A través del análisis del Libro Blanco del Título de Grado de Arquitecto, resultado del trabajo llevado a cabo por una comisión de expertos, apoyados por la Agencia Nacional de Evaluación de la Calidad y Acreditación (ANECA, 2005) y de la relación entre las competencias adquiridas en la formación y las requeridas en la práctica profesional, se propone una nueva estructura de perfiles profesionales genéricos del Arquitecto que permitirán  replantear la formación de grado y de master, permitiéndole acceder a los actuales y futuros escenarios de la práctica profesional. 

L'ensenyament de l'Arquitectura s'ha d'adequar-se als canvis que es produeixen en la societat i que representen noves maneres d'exercici professional. Els Arquitectes han de poder respondre a un nou ventall de perfils professionals que els ofereix el mercat laboral. L'actual sistema formatiu permet aquesta adequació al llarg de tota la vida professional de l'Arquitecte donada la seva estructura de grau i màsters. A través de l'anàlisi del Llibre Blanc del Títol de Grau d'Arquitecte, resultat del treball dut a terme per una comissió d'experts, recolzats per l'Agència Nacional d'Avaluació de la Qualitat i Acreditació (ANECA, 2005) i de la relació entre les competències adquirides en la formació i les requerides en la pràctica professional, es proposa una nova estructura de perfils professionals genèrics de l'Arquitecte que permetran replantejar la formació de grau i de màster, permetent accedir als actuals i futurs escenaris de la pràctica professional.

The teaching of architecture must be adapted to the changes occurring in society and which represent new ways of professional practice. Architects must be able to respond to a new range of professional skills offered by the market. The current training system, with its structure of degree and masters, allows such adaptation. The analysis of the white book of the official title of architecture degree (ANECA, 2005) and the relationship between the competences acquired in training and those required in professional practice, offers a new structure of generic professional profiles that will allow the academia to rethink the training degree and master contains in order to facilitate the access to the current and future professional scenarios.
Photosynthetic quotients in the Gulf of California during autumn 1987 in the central region and spring 1989 in Puerto Don Juan
Authors: Cajal-Medrano R , Millán-Núñez R , Santamaría-del-Ángel E
Published: November 2017

In order to study the photosynthetic quotient variability (PQ = O2/14CO2) and to infer the relative contribution of new production in the Gulf of California, simultaneous determinations of photosynthesis were made using the 14C and oxygen techniques. Additionally, nutrient concentration was determined in the central region during autumn 1987 and during spring 1989 in a coastal lagoon in the same region. In both areas nutrient distribution suggests consumption by photosynthesis within the euphotic zone. The PQ integrated in the water column for single experiments goes from 1.43 ± 0.29 to 4.01 ± 0.33 in the central region and from 1.32 ± 0.22 to 3.08 ± 0.38 in the coastal lagoon Puerto Don Juan and does not differ from the PQ calculated for each depth. Calculated PQ values indicate the presence of NO3– during photosynthesis. The global PQ for all the experiments in both study areas was calculated by regression analysis for the central region (1.56 ± 0.45) and Puerto Don Juan (1.68 ± 0.56), suggesting NO3– influence during both seasons in both areas. A greater relative contribution of new production than regenerated production in both areas of the Gulf of California is inferred.
Systematic list of marine fishes of Bahia Concepcion, Baja California Sur, Mexico
Authors: Rodríguez-Romero J , Abitia-Cárdenas LA , De-la-Cruz-Agüero J , Galván-Magaña F
Published: November 2017

The first check-list of fishes from Bahía Concepción, Baja California Sur, Mexico, is presented. The list includes 146 species, belonging to 109 genera and 58 families. These specimens were collected between January 1985 and December 1989 (except 1988). Only those species that were collected are included in this list (those observed are not). They were catalogued and deposited in the ichthyological collection of the Centro Interdisciplinario de Ciencias Marinas of the Instituto Politécnico Nacional (CICIMAR-IPN) in La Paz, B.C.S., Mexico.
Geology of the Paleocene Sepultura Formation, Mesa de La Sepultura, Baja California
Authors: Abbott PL , Hanson AD , Thomson CN , Logue DL , Bradshaw KD , Pollard WJ , Seeliger TE
Published: November 2017

At its Mesa de La Sepultura type area, the upper-lower to upper Paleocene Sepultura Formation lies with apparent disconformity on the lower Maastrichtian, marine upper slope and shelf deposits of the Rosario Formation. In places the uppermost Rosario Formation is marked by a kaolinite-rich paleosol. The Sepultura Formation is a deepening-upward sequence divided into a lower glauconitic-clastic member and an upper limestone member. The lower member has a basal plutonic-volcanic conglomerate overlain by sandstone containing abundant Turritella peninsularis of late-early to early-late Paleocene age. The dominant lithology is calcite-cemented, glauconitic, fossiliferous arkose or lithic arkose of apparent Peninsular Ranges provenance. The beds contain abundant red algal nodules, storm deposits, and iron-stained corrosion surfaces. Terrigenous sediment influx was diverted so that the upper member is virtually pure limestone dominated by branching red algae fragments and forams but devoid of micrite. The Sepultura Formation at Mesa de La Sepultura is a carbonate sediment-dominated record of late-early to late Paleocene deepening that progressed from shallowest marine at the base to 200 m deep shelf waters at the top. During this time, terrigenous coarse sediment deposition was blocked here even though it dominated in areas to the north and South.
Phytoplanktonic temporal variability in a coastal area of northwestern Baja California
Authors: Millán-Núñez E , Loya-Salinas DH
Published: November 2017

A phytoplankton study was barried out in Bahía de Todos Santos from March 1986 to March 1987. Samples were taken monthly at three stations and at depths of 1, 10 and 20 m. The temporal variability of the phytoplankton taxonomic groups was very similar most of the time, except in June and November when an increase in the diatom group was detected. These cell blooms may be due to mixing processes or upwelling events that occur outside the study area. The advection process into the bay is shown by the low oxygen saturation values for June at 20 m depth. The size fractions of diatoms showed two successional phases of bloom events: in June, an abundance of cells was observed with late-bloom characteristics since the predominant cell size of the diatom group was > 20um, whereas in November there was a dominance of cells < 20 µm, characteristic of a prebloom event.
Reproductive cycle of the clam Chione californiensis (Broderip, 1835) in Bahia Magdalena, Baja California Sur, Mexico
Authors: García-Domínguez F , García-Melgar G , González-Ramírez P
Published: November 2017

Adult clams Chione califomiensis (Broderip, 1835) were sampled monthly between May 1988 and September 1989, from intertidal populations in Puerto San Carlos, Bahía Magdalena, Baja California Sur. Gonadal development was monitored using standard histological methods. Observed gametogenic progression was categorized by five stages: inactive, gametogenesis, ripe, spawning and spent. Both male and female clams displayed the same stages. Spawning in the population occurred continuously for four months in 1988 (June to September) and for six months in 1989 (April to September), both years with a peak of spawning activity in August.
A triangle for the representation of populations and genetic interpretation of sandy sediments
Authors: Lecuanda R
Published: November 2017

A triangular diagram is proposed to represent the percentage of traction, saltation, and suspension populations identified in sandy sediments as a tool in their genetic interpretation. The variation observed in the population composition of sediments from different sedimentary environments revealed ten populational groups in the triangle, one for each environment. The meaning of size, type of relation and overlapping between groups are analyzed and discussed. The graphic procedure here proposed contributes to the genetic interpretation and the ranking of the physical processes of sedimentation that occur in depositional environments.
Revealing protein structures: crystallization of protein‐ligand complexes – co‐crystallization and crystal soaking
Authors: Kaščáková Barbora , Koutská Anna , Burdová Michaela , Havlíčková Petra , Kutá Smatanová Ivana
Published: October 2024

Protein crystallogenesis represents a key step in X‐ray crystallography studies that employ co‐crystallization and ligand soaking for investigating ligand binding to proteins. Co‐crystallization is a method that enables the precise determination of binding positions, although it necessitates a significant degree of optimization. The utilization of microseeding can facilitate a reduction in sample requirements and accelerate the co‐crystallization process. Ligand soaking is the preferred method due to its simplicity; however, it requires careful control of soaking conditions to ensure the successful integration of the ligands. This research protocol details the procedures for co‐crystallization and soaking to achieve protein–ligand complex formation, which is essential for advancing drug discovery. Additionally, a simple protocol for demonstrating soaking for educational purposes is described.
Energy Transfer by Mechanical Alloying and Electrocatalytic Performance of the As‐Sintered Self‐Supported High‐Entropy Alloy FeNiCoCuMo
Authors: Jimenez‐Arevalo Victor M. , Martin Pablo , Pio Edgar , Pavez Jorge , Aguilar Claudio C. , Suryanarayana Challapalli , Páez Maritza
Published: October 2024

Efficient, stable, and cost‐effective electrocatalysts for the oxygen evolution reaction (OER) are essential for clean energy generation through water splitting. This study presents a FeNiCoCuMo high‐entropy alloy (HEA) synthesized via mechanical alloying (MA) and sintering using hot‐pressing. The energy transfer from the milling process influences phase transformations, with the High‐Entropy Alloys Prediction Software (HEAPS) predicting the formation of an FCC phase. X‐ray diffraction (XRD) and scanning electron microscopy reveal an FCC phase after 150 h of milling, with no elemental segregation observed. The Burgio kinetic model estimates 448 kJ mol−1 is needed to achieve a 99% FCC phase. The crystallite size is 4 nm, with a lattice parameter of 0.371 nm. The as‐milled phases were preserved during hot‐pressing sintering. Electrodes (M1, M2, M3) fabricated from the HEA demonstrated high electrocatalytic efficiency, with an average overpotential of 380 mV and Tafel slope of 77 mV dec−1. At a current density of 10 mA cm−2, the electrodes maintained operation for up to 100 h. The synergy between constituent elements is key to the superior electrocatalytic performance of FeNiCoCuMo HEAs, demonstrating their potential as promising materials for OER electrocatalysis.
Efficient and Scalable Radiative Cooling for Photovoltaics Using Solution‐Processable and Solar‐Transparent Mesoporous Nanoparticles
Authors: Jung Heesuk , Min Sung Yoon , Kang Byungsoo , Yoo Yongseok , Jang Jihun , Jang Yeoun‐Woo , Choi Hyojeong , Lee Hyeong Won , Biswas Swarup , Lee Yongju , Choi Mansoo , Lee Phillip , Jang Min Seok , Kim Hyeok , Yang Shu
Published: October 2024

Continuous heat generation in perovskite solar cells (PSCs), caused by solar radiation, poses a significant challenge to their lifespan. Existing active cooling methods require extra energy input and might not be effective at high temperatures. Most reported passive radiative cooling materials either lack solar transparency or require complex fabrication processes. Here, mesoporous silica nanoparticles are designed, synthesized, and assembled into multilayered stacks with a graded refractive index (GRI) by spray coating them on top of PSCs made from methylammonium lead iodide (MAPbI3) over a large scale (15.6 × 15.6 cm2). This coating offers both high transparency in the visible wavelength and high emissivity in the mid‐infrared region, leading to an average temperature reduction of 6.65 ±  1.48 °C in GRI‐coated MAPbI3 PSCs under outdoor conditions compared to non‐coated references. After 50 d, the GRI‐coated PSCs maintain 80.9 ± 8.7% of their initial photoconversion efficiency, in contrast to 6.1 ± 5.9% for the noncoated ones. The calculated cooling power of the GRI‐coated PSCs is 28.9% higher than that of the reference cells.
A Multifunctional Additive for Long‐Cycling Lithium‐Sulfur Batteries Under Lean‐Ether‐Electrolyte Conditions
Authors: Yang Fengyi , Qi Xiaoqun , Jiang Ruining , Jin Xiaoyu , Li Yan , Zhou Fei , Ji Jie , Zhang Renyuan , Hu Pei , Qie Long
Published: October 2024

The failure of lithium‐sulfur (Li‐S) batteries operating under lean‐ether‐electrolyte conditions can be ascribed to the deterioration of electrolytes, the passivation of cathodes, and the degeneration of lithium anodes. Efforts to address these challenges by exploring alternative electrolytes beyond commonly used ether‐based systems often introduce new complications. In this study, the utilization of a multifunctional additive, 2‐Bromoacetamide (BA), for ether electrolytes is proposed to achieve stable Li‐S batteries under lean‐electrolyte conditions. These investigations reveal that the amide bond in BA forms hydrogen bonds with sulfur atoms, promoting the dissolution of lithium sulfides (Li2S) in ether electrolytes and mediating the conversion of lithium polysulfides. This enhanced solubility of Li2S facilitates 3D deposition (vertical to the substrate) rather than the typical 2D deposition (parallel to the substrate) of Li2S, and thus alleviates the passivation of cathodes. Furthermore, the incorporation of BA promotes uniform and dense lithium deposition. The use of the BA‐containing electrolyte enables stable cycling of a Li‐S pouch cell for 40 cycles, even under a low electrolyte‐to‐sulfur ratio of 4 µL mg−1. This multifunctional strategy offers an effective solution to extend the lifetime of Li‐S batteries under lean‐electrolyte conditions, thereby paving the way for practical applications of Li‐S battery technology.
Promoting Layered Oxide Cathodes Based on Structural Reconstruction for Sodium‐Ion Batteries: Reversible Phase Transition, Stable Interface Regulation, and Multifunctional Intergrowth Structure
Authors: Liu Xin‐Yu , Li Shi , Zhu Yan‐Fang , Zhang Xin‐Yu , Su Yu , Li Meng‐Ying , Li Hong‐Wei , Chen Bing‐Bing , Liu Yi‐Feng , Xiao Yao
Published: October 2024

Layered transition‐metal oxides (NaxTMO2) are one of the most promising cathode materials for sodium‐ion batteries due to their high theoretical specific capacities, good conductivity, and environmental friendliness. However, several key scientific issues of NaxTMO2 cathode materials still persist in practical applications: i) complex phase transitions during the charge/discharge process owing to the slip of the transition‐metal layer; ii) the tendency for the interface to react with the electrolyte, resulting in structure degradation, and iii) reactions between active materials and H2O as well as CO2 on exposure to air in the environment to form alkaline substances on the surface. To understand electrochemical storage mechanisms and solve these problems, several modification strategies of NaxTMO2 have been reported recently, including bulk doping, concentration gradient structure design, interface regulation, and intergrowth structure construction. This review focuses on reversible phase transitions, stable interface regulation, and multifunctional intergrowth structure of the NaxTMO2 material from the inside to the outside. The future research directions for NaxTMO2 are also analyzed, providing guidance for the development of commercial layered oxides for next‐generation energy storage systems.
Mechanical Design Principles of Conductive Gels Applied for Flexible Electronics
Authors: Fang Yuanlai , Bai Zhongxiang , Xu Weiming , Xiong Xinhong , Wei Jingjiang , Hu Qin , Wang Haibo , Cui Jiaxi
Published: October 2024

Reaping the benefits of the burgeoning investigation of gels in recent decades, flexible electronics based on conductive gels have been extensively explored. Gels consisting of polymer networks and solvents provide ideal platforms for fabricating flexible electronics due to their soft mechanical nature, excellent biocompatibility, water‐like environment, and ease of processing. The majority of investigations of flexible electronics primarily focus on functionalities such as sensing capability, energy density, luminance, fluctuating frequency, and so on, whereas the distinguishing feature of flexible electronics lies in its inherent deformable mechanics in comparison to metal‐ or semiconductor‐based stiff electronics. However, the comprehensive design and investigation of the mechanical properties of deformable conductive gels have not received sufficient attention to improve the overall performance of flexible electronics. A comprehensive summary is provided, listing six crucial mechanical parameters—stretchability, modulus, strength, elasticity, hysteresis, and fatigue—which exert significant influence on the functionalities of flexible electronics. This review aims to direct researchers’ attention toward the mechanical design of deformable conductive gels and presents representative strategies for their mechanical modulation.
A Highly Sensitive, Conductive, and Flexible Hydrogel Sponge as a Discriminable Multimodal Sensor for Deep‐Learning‐Assisted Gesture Language Recognition
Authors: Fu Yu , Yang Chen , Zhang Boqiang , Wan Zhenshuai , Wang Shuangkun , Zhang Kun , Yang Liuhua , Wei Ronghan
Published: October 2024

Flexible multimodal sensors have gained increasing popularity for applications in healthcare and extreme environment operations owing to their all‐around environmental perception and data acquisition capabilities. However, fabricating a magnetism‐mechanics‐humidity multimodal sensor that possesses high sensitivity without signal overlapping while in a facile methodology remains a great challenge. Herein, a highly sensitive, conductive, and flexible hydrogel sponge sensor with discriminable magnetism, mechanics, and humidity sensing capability is proposed, which shows stable pore size (19.30 µm) and satisfactory mechanical properties based on the synergistic hydrogen bonding among sodium alginate, poly(vinyl alcohol) and glycerol. The proposed sensors can not only display favorable humidity sensing ability with rapid response/recovery time (2.5/4 s) but also possess enhanced sensitivities (a gauge factor of 0.46 T−1 for magnetic field, −1.16 kPa−1 for pressure), superior stability and durability (over 8000 cycles). Benefiting from the separated capacitive and resistive response signals, the sensors can precisely distinguish the magnetic, mechanical, and humidity stimuli without cross‐talk. Further, the sensor arrays assisted by the deep learning algorithm are developed to realize gesture language recognition with a high accuracy of 99.17%. It can be believed that this high‐performance sensor will have good prospects in future soft electronics and human‐machine interaction systems.
Mechanically Stable PMMA‐Based Large‐Area Nano‐Channels with Sub‐10 nm Depth
Authors: Liu Min , Reimer Tobias , Wang Yongkang , Kläui Mathias , Xing Yaowen , Gui Xiahui , Cao Yijun , Berger Rüdiger , Wang Hai , Bonn Mischa
Published: October 2024

Artificial sub‐microfluidic and nanofluidic devices allow for studying mass or ion transport effects under spatial confinement. It remains challenging to fabricate large‐scale, nanofluidic channels of well‐defined thickness for fundamental studies and practical applications, especially for extreme confinement conditions (e.g., with sub‐10 nm channel height). Here, a strategy is reported to fabricate large‐scale nano‐channels with the channel height down to 5.0 nm. The fabrication is enabled by developing ultra‐flat and ultra‐thin polymethylmethaacrylate (PMMA) layers as the spacer. The ease of scaling up the channel length to a millimeter in the lateral dimensions with high mechanical stability is demonstrated. Furthermore, experimental evidence is provided of the role of the mechanical coupling between the spacer and capping materials in determining the device's mechanical properties, and how controlling the channel width and the top graphite thickness can be employed to tailor the device's mechanical properties. Finally, employing near‐field IR experiments, the decay constant is established for the near‐field absorption intensity of PMMA molecules inside the channel by increasing the top layer thickness. This work develops a novel method for fabricating large‐area, mechanically stable nano‐channels for nanofluidic devices and lays the foundation for further in situ spectroscopic studies of electrochemistry within sub‐10 nm confinement.
Improving Cycling Stability of Ni‐Rich Cathode for Lithium‐Metal Batteries via Interphases Tunning
Authors: Kim Hun , Kim Jae‐Min , Park Geon‐Tae , Ahn Yeon‐Ji , Hwang Jang‐Yeon , Aurbach Doron , Sun Yang‐Kook
Published: October 2024

Combining Li‐metal anodes (LMAs) with high‐voltage Ni‐rich layered‐oxide cathodes is a promising approach to realizing high‐energy‐density Li secondary batteries. However, these systems experience severe capacity decay due to structural degradation of high‐voltage cathodes and side reactions of electrolyte solutions with both electrodes. Herein, the use of multi‐functional additives in fluoroethylene carbonate‐based electrolyte solutions that enable the operation of successfully rechargeable high‐voltage (4.5 V) Li‐metal batteries (LMBs) with high areal capacity (>4 mAh cm−2) are reported. Customized electrolyte solutions are pivotal in passivating the electrodes, minimizing microcrack formation, and ensuring that current is uniformly distributed within cathode particles. The developed electrolyte solution protects the LMA by forming a very stable and effective solid–electrolyte interphase. Together with the Li[Ni0.78Co0.1Mn0.12]O2 cathode material, which is composed of radially aligned rod‐shaped primary particles, the developed high‐voltage LMB containing 20 mg cm−2 of cathode material delivers a high specific capacity of 230 mAh g−1 at 0.1 C and retains >86% of its initial capacity after 200 cycles at 0.5 C. This study highlights the significance of controlling the interfacial structure via electrolyte solution modification and the use of cathode materials with engineered morphologies that enhance mechanical stability.
More ESG Practices, Higher Financial Performance? The U‐Shaped Pattern in China's Agricultural and Food Firms
Authors: Zhang Yanyan , Xiong Tao
Published: October 2024

ESG (environmental, social, and governance) practices, an internationally recognized concept of a firm's sustainability, can serve as a bridge to enhance effective communication between firms and various stakeholders. It is also a new tool for measuring firms' value. This study employs a balanced panel data set of 114 publicly traded agricultural and food firms in China from 2016 to 2022. It empirically investigates the relationship between ESG and financial performance based on shareholder primacy theory and stakeholder theory. Employing a two‐way fixed effects (FE) model, our findings reveal a U‐shaped nonlinear pattern in how ESG impacts financial performance. It differs from previous studies that found predominantly positive relationships: Specifically, the average ESG score for firms is 0.396, the median is 0.390, and the inflection point of the U‐shape occurs at 0.53. When firms' ESG investments are less than 0.53, the high initial ESG cost makes it difficult to transform ESG into financial improvement. However, once this threshold is surpassed, good ESG can convey an excellent reputation to the public and increase anti‐risk ability—which, in turn, significantly improves firms' financial performance and facilitates long‐term development. Also, our study demonstrates that firms' ownership and different positions in the supply chain differentially affect the relationship between ESG and financial performance. This paper also offers insights into promoting the sustainable development of Chinese agri‐food firms.
A Methodological Approach to Prioritize Digital Twin Development in Manufacturing
Authors: Blasco Román Sara , Böttjer Till
Published: October 2024

The digital age has brought about a need for organizations to utilize Digital Twins to improve operational efficiency and decision‐making. However, it is difficult for companies to identify and prioritize Digital Twin initiatives that meet the needs of their stakeholders and align with the capabilities of the company and its strategic plans. This paper proposes a methodology for the systematic identification and prioritization of Digital Twin applications in complex industrial settings. The methodology begins by documenting business requirements, current processes, and challenges, and subsequently identifying areas with potential benefits from Digital Twins through the use of an opportunity scoring system. To refine the portfolio of Digital Twin applications to include only those that are impactful and viable, the feasibility of Digital Twin is quantified by evaluating technological (technical capacity and digital skills), organizational, and project risk factors. To validate the proposed methodology, a case study was conducted in collaboration with an industrial partner specializing in injection molding. This real‐world application demonstrates the effectiveness of our approach in identifying and prioritizing Digital Twin applications in a complex industrial context. This research contributes to the growing body of knowledge surrounding Digital Twins, providing organizations with a structured approach to leverage the potential of this transformative technology.
Model Averaging for Estimating Treatment Effects With Binary Responses
Authors: Cui Guangyuan , Li Na , Wan Alan T. K. , Zhang Xinyu
Published: October 2024

In this article, we present a novel approach for estimating the conditional average treatment effect in models with binary responses. Our proposed method involves model averaging, and we establish a weight choice criterion based on jackknife model averaging. We analyze the theoretical properties of this approach, including its asymptotic optimality in achieving the lowest possible squared error and the convergence rate of the weights assigned to correctly specified models. Additionally, we introduce a new matching method that combines partition and nearest neighbor pairing, leveraging the strengths of both techniques. To evaluate the performance of our method, we conduct comparisons with existing approaches via a Monte Carlo study and a real data analysis. Overall, our results demonstrate the effectiveness and practicality of our proposed approach for estimating the conditional average treatment effect in binary response models.
The Risk of Exacerbation of Myasthenia Gravis After COVID‐19 Omicron Infection
Authors: Zhang Nana , Wang Ziya , Sun Dongren , Chen Hongxi , Zhou Hongyu
Published: October 2024

Objective

The aim of this study is to ascertain whether COVID‐19 Omicron infection is associated with exacerbations in these myasthenia gravis (MG) patients.

Result

In total, 289 MG patients (comprising 60% females, with an average age of 46 ± 15 years) were enrolled. A total of 80.9% of MG patients reported a COVID‐19 infection, with the majority experiencing a benign course (88%). MG patients who experienced COVID‐19 infection demonstrated a higher likelihood of MG exacerbation, compared to those without the infection (18.8% vs. 7.3%, p = 0.039). In the survival analysis, after adjusting for confounding factors, the hazard ratio (HR) for exacerbation post‐infection was found to be 3.38 (95% CI 1.20–9.53, p = 0.021). Compared to the exacerbation rates observed in JTA21, an increase was noted in DTM23 among COVID‐19‐infected MG patients (4.4% vs. 17.2%, p < 0.001).

Conclusion

The COVID‐19 is the risk of MG exacerbation.
Facile minocycline deployment in gingiva using a dissolvable microneedle patch for the adjunctive treatment of periodontal disease
Authors: Li Huimin , Wen Xueyu , Gong Xinyi , Wu Yange , Zhao Puxuan , Zhang Yun , Sha Zhuomin , Chang Hao , Chen Xuepeng
Published: October 2024

Minocycline is a commonly used drug for adjunctive therapy in periodontal disease. However, the current mainstream local medications primarily rely on intra‐pocket administration, which, while avoiding the side effects of traditional systemic drugs, presents challenges such as inconvenience, discomfort, and the need for professional assistance, thus affecting patient compliance. Herein, we introduce a minocycline‐loaded dissolvable microneedle (Mino‐DMN) patch that allows for local and efficient delivery of minocycline to gingiva for the treatment of periodontitis. A two‐step casting micro‐molding process involving vacuum drying and freeze drying is employed to concentrate minocycline in the microneedle part and limit its diffusion into the patch backing. The resulting Mino‐DMN patch features an array of minocycline‐enriched gelatin MNs with a porous HA patch backing. The microneedles can penetrate into gingiva with enough mechanical strength and quickly release minocycline into the gingival tissue, ensuring prolonged local residence of the drug and minimizing its loss to saliva. In vivo experiments show Mino‐DMN inhibits pro‐inflammatory factors, promotes anti‐inflammatory factors, and stimulates bone formation, surpassing topical application and comparable to the inconvenient and discomfort administration of Periocline®. This proposed Mino‐DMN offers a simple, efficient, user‐friendly strategy for the adjunctive treatment of periodontal disease.
The supervision of experienced secondary school‐based counsellors: A situational analysis constructivist grounded theory exploration of best practice
Authors: Harries Imogen
Published: October 2024

Introduction and Aims

Secondary school‐based counselling (SSBC) is used widely throughout the United Kingdom (UK) as an early mental health intervention, and clinical supervision is necessary for its safe and effective practice. Currently, there does not exist a body of research to inform best practice in this area of supervision. The purpose of this study was to explore the supervisory requirements of the experienced secondary school‐based counsellor and what best practice looks like.

Method

This study used situational analysis constructivist grounded theory methodology to explore and develop a grounded theory of best practice in supervising the experienced secondary school counsellor in the UK. The descriptions of best practice were examined from the interviews of 17 experienced secondary school counsellors and/or supervisors.

Findings

From the data emerged one core category (‘a good fit’) which encapsulated four theoretical categories (‘the supervisory relationship’, ‘understanding the working context’, ‘safeguarding’ and ‘the shared supervisory journey’). The study indicates that the supervisor needs an understanding of the unique context of the secondary school as a therapist's working environment in order to support the supervisee with often complex work. There needs to be an awareness of how elements from within the school and/or counselling agency can impact on the supervision regarding boundaries, trust and containment so they do not impact the supervision in a detrimental way.

Conclusions

Supervisor and supervisee need a shared understanding of the nature of supervision within this context for it to be a ‘good fit’ for both. This has implications for supervision training and the externality of supervision within this context.
Endocapillary proliferative glomerulonephritis associated with Q fever endocarditis: A case report
Authors: Coorey Craig Peter , James William , Manickavasagam Venkat , Chen Jason , Baweja Sanjeev
Published: October 2024

Key Clinical Message

Acute Coxiella burnetti (Q fever) infection is known to activate the autoimmune inflammatory response. We report a rare case of glomerulonephritis associated with the Coxiella infection. An elderly male first presented with recurrent fevers of unknown origin and was subsequently diagnosed with Q fever infection and treated with doxycycline. He represented 2 months later with an acute kidney injury and active urinary sediment. Renal biopsy demonstrated a mesangiopathic pattern with staining for both C1q and IgM, raising possibilities of infection‐related glomerulonephritis, C1q nephropathy and lupus nephritis. This case demonstrates glomerulonephritis as a complication of Q fever infection and the differential diagnosis and workup up that needs to be considered in cases of chronic Q fever.
Amoxicillin and lamotrigine‐induced DRESS syndrome: A case report
Authors: Demas Nicholas , Shaikh Mohammad Baseem
Published: October 2024

Key Clinical Message

This case demonstrated with importance of recognizing DRESS syndrome presenting without the typical eosinophilia due to possible cross‐reactivity between amoxicillin and the well‐documented inciting medication lamotrigine. Steroid tapering is an effective treatment, but medication avoidance should be stressed to avoid symptom recurrence.
Employing empirical models to analyze stability of yield and quality traits in chili peppers (Capsicum species)
Authors: Subhavyuktha S. , Usha Nandhini Devi H. , Kumar K. K. , Vethamoni P. Irene , Premalatha N. , Srividhya S.
Published: October 2024

Stability analysis plays a crucial role in plant breeding programs aimed at enhancing crop productivity and resilience. Chili yield stability studies based on the interaction of genotype × environment have been widely conducted, as stable yield is very substantial in the formation of sustainably high‐yielding chili varieties. Multi‐environmental trials, conducted across different seasons, locations, or both, are used to assess these G × E interactions through various statistical models. In this context, this review paper explores the understanding of stability analysis in chili breeding, the significance of genotype by environment interaction, and the methods employed in this domain, providing a comprehensive update on recent advancements in stability analysis specific to chili breeding. Furthermore, research studies conducted on stability analysis in chili breeding programs and software used to assess crop stability are featured, shedding light on the application, challenges, and future prospects in the field. The importance of stability analysis in developing stable genotypes and enhancing agricultural productivity amid evolving environmental conditions is herewith underscored. These insights are critical for breeding programs aiming to create robust genotypes capable of adapting to changing environmental conditions, ultimately contributing to more sustainable agricultural practices.
Enhancing Reliability in Multilevel Inverter: A Fault‐Tolerant Approach With Reduced Switch Count
Authors: Sivapriya A. , Kalaiarasi N. , Kubendran V.
Published: October 2024

Reliability is a major concern in multilevel inverters (MLI) due to the increased number of power switches and diodes, which increases the chance of switch failures and complicates the inverter design. The primary challenges faced by the current MLI design include higher control complexity, increased parasitic elements, more extensive protection, and lack of multiple fault tolerance. Therefore, developing reduced switch MLI with fault‐tolerant ability is crucial to ensure system availability and prevent adverse outcomes. To address these challenges, this article introduces a highly resilient fault‐tolerant reduced switch count (FTRSC) MLI topology offering fault tolerance with minimal switch count. The proposed topology provides fault tolerance in case of single‐ and multiple‐switch open‐circuit (OC) failures. The inherent fault‐tolerant operation is analyzed for the proposed topology's symmetric and asymmetric configurations. The simulation and experimental results validate the effectiveness of the proposed topology considering normal, faulty, and postfault conditions. Furthermore, the reliability evaluation of the proposed work is carried out using the Markov chain model, resulting in a high total mean time to failure of approximately 117,550 h/failures, along with an efficiency of 96.3%. These findings demonstrate that the proposed circuit has enhanced reliability and extended mean time to failure, affirming its suitability for sensitive industrial applications. Finally, a thorough comparison with recent studies highlights the superiority of the proposed system.