bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Jet swelling of concentrated silicone oil-in-water emulsions
Authors: Fruman D. H. , Zakin J. L. , Li F. , Makria A.
Published: July 2002

Jet swelling is shown to exist when a concentrated oil-in-water emulsion is ejected from a capillary tube into a stagnant fluid. The jet swells up to ten times the diameter of the capillary tube depending on the shear rate in the tube and the density difference between the ejected and the stagnant fluid. The relative jet swelling increases with silicone oil concentration, decreases in silicone oil viscosity, decreases in tube diameter, and decreases in tube length. The diameter ratio (jet/tube) grows as the 1/3 power of the wall shear stress in the capillary tube. The analogy between the swelling behavior of these emulsions and that observed in dilute and semidilute polymer solutions is discussed.
Court Intrusion Into Science and Medicine—The Mifepristone Decisions
Authors: Aaron Daniel G. , Brown Teneille R. , Sinha Michael S.
Published: April 2023

This Viewpoint discusses recent US court decisions on the availability of mifepristone, a drug used to terminate pregnancies, and how these conflicting court decisions affect the scientific process and decision-making of the US Food and Drug Administration.
Association of Integrating Mental Health Into Pediatric Primary Care at Federally Qualified Health Centers With Utilization and Follow-up Care
Authors: Kim Jihye , Sheldrick R. Christopher , Gallagher Kerrin , Bair-Merritt Megan H. , Durham Michelle P. , Feinberg Emily , Morris Anita , Cole Megan B.
Published: April 2023

Importance

More than 1 in 5 children in low-income families report a mental health (MH) problem, yet most face barriers accessing MH services. Integrating MH services into primary care at pediatric practices such as federally qualified health centers (FQHCs) may address these barriers.

Objective

To examine the association of a comprehensive MH integration model with health care utilization, psychotropic medication use, and MH follow-up care among Medicaid-enrolled children at FQHCs.

Design, Setting, and Participants

This retrospective cohort study used Massachusetts claims data from 2014 to 2017 to conduct difference-in-differences (DID) analyses before vs after implementation of a complete FQHC-based MH integration model. The sample included Medicaid-enrolled children aged 3 to 17 years who received primary care at 3 intervention FQHCs or 6 geographically proximal nonintervention FQHCs in Massachusetts. Data were analyzed in July 2022.

Exposures

Receipt of care at an FQHC implementing the Transforming and Expanding Access to Mental Health Care in Urban Pediatrics (TEAM UP) model, which began fully integrating MH care into pediatrics in mid-2016.

Main Outcomes and Measures

Utilization outcomes included primary care visits, MH service visits, emergency department (ED) visits, inpatient admissions, and psychotropic medication use. Follow-up visits within 7 days of a MH-related ED visit or hospitalization were also examined.

Results

Among the 20 170 unique children in the study sample, at baseline (2014), their mean (SD) age was 9.0 (4.1) years, and 4876 (51.2%) were female. In contrast to nonintervention FQHCs, TEAM UP was positively associated with primary care visits with MH diagnoses (DID, 4.35 visits per 1000 patients per quarter; 95% CI, 0.02 to 8.67 visits per 1000 patients per quarter) and MH service use (DID, 54.86 visits per 1000 patients per quarter; 95% CI, 1.29 to 108.43 visits per 1000 patients per quarter) and was negatively associated with rates of psychotropic medication use (DID, −0.4%; 95% CI −0.7% to −0.01%) and polypharmacy (DID, −0.3%; 95% CI, −0.4% to −0.1%). TEAM UP was positively associated with ED visits without MH diagnoses (DID, 9.45 visits per 1000 patients per quarter; 95% CI, 1.06 to 17.84 visits per 1000 patients per quarter), but was not significantly associated with ED visits with MH diagnoses. No statistically significant changes were observed in inpatient admissions, follow-up visits after MH ED visits, or follow-up visits after MH hospitalizations.

Conclusions and Relevance

The first 1.5 years of MH integration enhanced access to pediatric MH services while limiting the use of psychotropic medications. Additional implementation time is necessary to determine whether these changes will translate into reductions in avoidable utilization.
Depression Associated With Hormonal Contraceptive Use as a Risk Indicator for Postpartum Depression
Authors: Larsen Søren Vinther , Mikkelsen Anders Pretzmann , Lidegaard Øjvind , Frokjaer Vibe Gedso
Published: April 2023

Importance

Hormonal sensitivity may contribute to the risk of depression in some women, as observed during the premenstrual, postpartum, and perimenopausal phases, and when initiating hormonal contraception (HC). However, little evidence exists to support that such depressive episodes are linked across the reproductive life span.

Objective

To determine whether prior depression associated with HC initiation is coupled with a higher risk of postpartum depression (PPD) than prior depression not associated with HC initiation.

Design, Setting, and Participants

This cohort study used Danish health registry data collected from January 1, 1995, through December 31, 2017, and analyzed from March 1, 2021, through January 1, 2023. All women living in Denmark born after 1978 with their first delivery between January 1, 1996, and June 30, 2017, were eligible for inclusion; 269 354 met these criteria. Women were then excluded if they had never used HC or if they had a depressive episode before 1996 or within 12 months prior to delivery.

Exposures

Prior depression associated with vs not associated with HC initiation, ie, if developed within 6 months after start of an HC exposure or not. Depression was defined as a hospital diagnosis of depression or filling a prescription for antidepressant medication.

Main Outcomes and Measures

Crude and adjusted odds ratios (ORs) were calculated for the incidence of PPD defined as the development of depression within 6 months after first delivery.

Results

Of 188 648 first-time mothers, 5722 (3.0%) (mean [SD] age, 26.7 [3.9] years) had a history of depression associated with initiation of HC use, and 18 431 (9.8%) (mean [SD] age, 27.1 [3.8] years) had a history of depression not associated with the initiation of HC. Women with HC-associated depression had a higher risk of PPD than women with prior non–HC-associated depression (crude OR, 1.42 [95% CI, 1.24-1.64]; adjusted OR, 1.35 [95% CI, 1.17-1.56]).

Conclusions and Relevance

These findings suggest that a history of HC-associated depression may be associated with a higher risk of PPD, supporting that HC-associated depression may indicate PPD susceptibility. This finding offers a novel strategy in clinical PPD risk stratification and points to the existence of a hormone-sensitive subgroup of women.
Coarse woody habitat use by local fish species and structural integrity of enhancements over time in a shallow northern boreal lake assessed in a Bayesian modelling approach
Authors: Theis Sebastian , Ruppert Jonathan L. W. , Poesch Mark S.
Published: April 2023

The introduction of coarse woody habitat has been a widely adopted management practice for restoring and enhancing freshwater aquatic ecosystems. Although responses of aquatic fish and invertebrate communities have largely been documented for lotic systems, benefits for lentic ecosystems have been mostly unevaluated.

We tested the responses of fish populations to coarse woody habitat structures through a Bayesian modelling approach in a northern boreal lake in Alberta, Canada by enhancing a stretch of littoral zone with low structural complexity through introduction of coarse wood bundles and whole tree structures. The study site was split into three treatments, a Spaced treatment (structures 30 m apart), a Clustered treatment (structures 15 m apart) and an unaltered area (Control).

Catch per unit effort and catch per unit area data were collected over 2 years and posterior model predictions showed an increase in habitat use of the enhanced areas by spottail shiner—Notropis hudsonius; northern pike—Esox lucius; white sucker—Catostomus commersonii; brook stickleback—Culaea inconstans. No probable effect on overall fish condition, measured in Relative Weight, was linked to the enhancements.

Across the 2‐year study, wood bundles degraded faster compared to the whole tree drops, coinciding with levelling off catch per unit effort and catch per unit area predictions near wood bundles, although catch predictions increased near the whole tree structures. Structural degradation set in as early as 1 week post‐construction for wood bundles and was mostly related to anchoring aspects.

Results from our study provide evidence for the benefits provided by coarse woody habitat within northern boreal lake systems. They furthermore highlight the short‐lived nature of wood bundles built with biodegradable substances. Methodologically our results offer evidence on the feasibility and utility of predictive modelling frameworks in addressing pseudoreplication and providing informative value for ecological studies.
Study on tribological properties of high entropy alloy composite coatings with different tungsten carbide contents in laser cladding
Authors: Chen Baijiang
Published: April 2023

The severe working conditions of mining machinery make the wear of its parts extremely serious, thus reducing its service life, increasing the probability of accidents, and may cause huge economic wastage. So promoting the improvement of mining machinery is imperative, and the melting of wear‐resistant layer on the surface of wear‐prone equipment is a more effective improvement method. The study was performed by laser fusing a composite coating of CoCrFeNiMn high‐entropy alloy with different WC contents, and a second phase was generated in the coating by an additive method to achieve the strengthening of the coating. The experiments revealed that all the coatings had FCC phase as the main phase by analyzing the phase conformation, structure, stiffness, and abrasiveness. When the WC dosage exceeded 20 wt.%, Fe3W3 (M6C) carbide reinforced phases with different morphologies were produced in the coatings. Forty wt.% of the coatings showed the highest hardness, which was 3.1 times better than that of the coatings without WC particles, and 30 wt.% of the coatings showed the best abrasiveness. HT0 coatings showed the least friction factor of 0.27. HT600 and HT800 corresponded to friction factors of 0.37 and 0.35, respectively. The coefficient of friction of the coating was most stable after about 3 min at room temperature, and the wear phase took longer after annealing. During the break‐in phase, the precipitated phase has a supportive effect and prolongs the break‐in period. The coating using the studied method improves the wear resistance of mechanical parts and extends their service life, which has some economic and practical value.
Precise Regulation of Inflammation and Oxidative Stress by ROS‐Responsive Prodrug Coated Balloon for Preventing Vascular Restenosis
Authors: Zhao Jing , Fu Jia‐yin , Jia Fan , Li Jian , Yu Bo , Huang Yue , Ren Ke‐feng , Ji Jian , Fu Guo‐sheng
Published: April 2023

Vascular restenosis after balloon dilation is largely caused by the over‐proliferation of smooth muscle cells, which is triggered and exacerbated by local excessive inflammation and oxidative stress. The excessive inflammatory and oxidative stress cause tissue/cell damage, hamper endothelial functions, and worsen intimal hyperplasia and restenosis. A high level of reactive oxygen species (ROS) overproduction is regarded as the main culprit. Therefore, efficiently inhibiting ROS over‐production or weightily depleting them is of great significance. Herein, a “ROS‐responsive/scavenging prodrug” is introduced into balloon coating for the treatment of vascular restenosis. A reversible phenylboronic ester‐bearing caffeic acid (CA) macromolecular prodrug (PBC) is designed for the controlled and on‐demand dual‐drug release triggered by the local high ROS level; the released CA and 4‐hydroxybenzyl alcohol exhibit efficient antioxidant and anti‐inflammatory effects by scavenging ROS, thereby regulating vascular microenvironment and protecting endothelium functions. To accelerate endothelium regeneration, pro‐endothelial microRNA‐126 is further introduced. The ROS‐responsive/scavenging prodrug/miRNA balloon coating efficiently prevents intimal hyperplasia, alleviates local inflammation, and improves endothelium healing in a rat abdominal aorta restenosis model, which may provide applicative perspectives for next‐generation drug‐coated balloons and other cardiovascular diseases treatment.
Stable Non‐flammable Phosphate Electrolyte for Lithium Metal Batteries via Solvation Regulation by the Additive
Authors: Jiang Gaoxue , Liu Jiandong , Wang Zhongsheng , Ma Jianmin
Published: April 2023

The application of lithium metal batteries (LMBs) is impeded by safety concerns. Employing non‐flammable electrolytes can improve battery reliability while the cost and performance deterioration limit their popularization. Herein, a high‐performance non‐flammable electrolyte is designed, 1.5 m LiTFSI in propylene carbonate (PC)/triethyl phosphate (TEP) (4:1 by vol.) with 4‐nitrophenyl trifluoroacetate (TFANP) as the additive, which can facilitate the construction of LiF‐rich solid electrolyte interphase (SEI) on Li anode surface and cathode electrolyte interphase (CEI) on cathode surface through its prioritized decomposition. In TFANP‐containing electrolyte, the decreased TEP coordination number in the solvation sheath relieves the adverse effect of active TEP on both the SEI and CEI for suppressing the growth of Li dendrites and reducing the continuous electrolyte consumption. Thus, the Li||LiNi0.6Co0.2Mn0.2O2 battery with such an electrolyte can deliver 132 mAh g−1 after 150 cycles with high coulombic efficiency (99.5%) and superior rate performance (110 mAh g−1 at 5 C, 1 C = 200 mA g−1). This work provides a new additive insight on non‐flammable electrolyte for reliable LMBs.
CO2 Conversion Toward Real‐World Applications: Electrocatalysis versus CO2 Batteries
Authors: Xu Changfan , Dong Yulian , Zhao Huaping , Lei Yong
Published: April 2023

Electrochemical carbon dioxide (CO2) conversion technologies have become new favorites for addressing environmental and energy issues, especially with direct electrocatalytic reduction of CO2 (ECO2RR) and alkali metal‐CO2 (M–CO2) batteries as representatives. They are poised to create new economic drivers while also paving the way for a cleaner and more sustainable future for humanity. Although still far from practical application, ECO2RR has been intensively investigated over the last few years, with some achievements. In stark contrast, M–CO2 batteries, especially aqueous and hybrid M–CO2 batteries, offer the potential to combine energy storage and ECO2RR into an integrated system, but their research is still in the early stages. This article gives an insightful review, comparison, and analysis of recent advances in ECO2RR and M–CO2 batteries, illustrating their similarities and differences, aiming to advance their development and innovation. Considering the crucial role of well‐designed functional materials in facilitating ECO2RR and M–CO2 batteries, special attention is paid to the development of rational design strategies for functional materials and components, such as electrodes/catalysts, electrolytes, and membranes/separators, at the industrial level and their impact on CO2 conversion. Moreover, future perspectives and research suggestions for ECO2RR and M–CO2 batteries are presented to facilitate practical applications.
Bioinspired Superwetting Open Microfluidics: From Concepts, Phenomena to Applications
Authors: Si Yifan , Li Chuxin , Hu Jinlian , Zhang Chengqi , Dong Zhichao
Published: April 2023

Microfluidics and bioinspired superwetting materials, as two crucial branches of scientific research, are entering their golden age of development. As an emerging interdisciplinary subject of these two fields, bioinspired superwetting open microfluidics is triggering technological revolutions in many disciplines, including rapid medical diagnosis, biochemical analysis, liquid manipulation, 3D printing, etc. However, this new research area has yet to attract extensive attention. So, a timely review is necessary to organize the development process, summarize current achievements, and discuss the challenges or chances for the ongoing scientific trend. In this review, the evolution from closed to open microfluidics is combed first. Then, three typical bioinspired superwetting systems are introduced emphatically. Based on this, the bioinspired superwetting open microfluidics is divided into different categories according to the bionic objects as the focus of this study. Taking natural phenomena as the entry point, the research from the underlying mechanism to the application is systematically discussed and summarized. Several emerging applications are also mentioned. Finally, some views on major problems, existing challenges, and developing trends are briefly put forward in this field to guide future research.
Cold Sintering of Highly Transparent Calcium Fluoride Nanoceramic as a Universal Platform for High‐Power Lighting
Authors: Gao Jie , Xia Zhiguo , Ding Qi , Liu Yongping , Yan Peng , Hu Yunfeng , Wang Lianjun , Luo Wei , Fan Yuchi , Jiang Wan
Published: April 2023

A thermally robust all‐inorganic color converter is imperative to high‐power light‐emitting diode (LED) lighting. However, it remains challenging to find a universal inorganic matrix for encapsulating multicolor phosphors due to the hurdle of achieving a highly transparent medium at a moderate temperature. Here, the densification of calcium fluoride (CaF2) nanoceramic with visible transmittance up to 75% at merely 350 °C, benefiting from an acid‐mediated cold sintering process of oxygen‐segregated CaF2 nanoparticles is reported. Using the optically isotropic CaF2 as a transparent platform, a Y3Al5O12:Ce3+ (YAG: Ce) phosphor‐based phosphor‐in‐ceramics (PiC) converter with luminous efficacy as high as 190 lm W−1 is fabricated. The ultralow temperature enables the PiC converter to be further combined with red‐emitting CaAlSiN3:Eu2+ (CASN:Eu), delivering a color‐rendering index of 92. The cold‐sintered CaF2 nanoceramic demonstrates great potential as a general solution for next‐generation high‐power LED lighting.
Rotatable Methylene Ether Bridge Units Enabling High Chain Flexibility and Rapid Ionic Transport in a New Universal Aqueous Conductive Binder
Authors: Zhang Farong , Xia Hongyu , Wei Tongye , Liu Bei , Li Huaming , Lu Zhouguang , Yang Mei
Published: April 2023

Binders play an essential role in maintaining the mechanical integrity and stability of electrodes. Herein, a novel aqueous and conductive binder (OXP/CNT‐1.5) consisting of carbon nanotubes (CNTs) interwoven with a flexible nano‐film of oxidized pullulan (OXP) is designed. The rotatable methylene ether bridge units within OXP chain endow the binder with high chain flexibility, facilitate rapid ion transport, and buffer severe volumetric expansion during charge‐discharge cycling. Furthermore, its tight intertwining with CNTs forms continuously conductive and flexible skeletons, which can firmly grasp active nanoparticles through a “face‐to‐point” bonding type, guaranteeing the electrodes high conductivity and outstanding mechanical integrity. More importantly, these conductive binders are applicable to the Si/C anode as well as the LiFePO4 cathode. The as‐fabricated Si/C anode delivers a 88.2% capacity retention after 100 cycles and 80.2% capacity retention at 0.5 A g−1 (vs 0.05 A g−1), far surpassing the electrode fabricated by conventional polyvinylidene fluoride binder and carbon black mixtures. The LiFePO4/Si/C full cells based on OXP/CNT‐1.5 demonstrate excellent electrochemical behavior and stability (97.4% capacity retention after 100 cycles). This work highlights the key role of rotatable methylene ether bridge units to enhance the flexibility, ion conductivity, and stability, which is inspiring in the context of designing novel binders for high‐performance batteries.
Strategic Design of Conquering Hypoxia in Tumor for Advanced Photodynamic Therapy
Authors: Zhang Cheng , Hu Xiaoming , Jin Long , Lin Lisheng , Lin Hongxin , Yang Zhen , Huang Wei
Published: April 2023

Photodynamic therapy (PDT), with its advantages of high targeting, minimally invasive, and low toxicity side effects, has been widely used in the clinical therapy of various tumors, especially superficial tumors. However, the tumor microenvironment (TME) presents hypoxia due to the low oxygen (O2) supply caused by abnormal vascularization in neoplastic tissues and high O2 consumption induced by the rapid proliferation of tumor cells. The efficacy of oxygen‐consumping PDT can be hampered by a hypoxic TME. To address this problem, researchers have been developing advanced nanoplatforms and strategies to enhance the therapeutic effect of PDT in tumor treatment. This review summarizes recent advanced PDT therapeutic strategies to against the hypoxic TME, thus enhancing PDT efficacy, including increasing O2 content in TME through delivering O2 to the tumors and in situ generations of O2; decreasing the O2 consumption during PDT by design of type I photosensitizers. Moreover, recent synergistically combined therapy of PDT and other therapeutic methods such as chemotherapy, photothermal therapy, immunotherapy, and gas therapy is accounted for by addressing the challenging problems of mono PDT in hypoxic environments, including tumor resistance, proliferation, and metastasis. Finally, perspectives of the opportunities and challenges of PDT in future clinical research and translations are provided.
Moth‐Eye‐Inspired Gradient Impedance Microwave Absorption Materials with Multiband Compatible Stealth Characteristic
Authors: Duan Yuping , Ma Ben , Huang Lingxi , Ma Xinran , Wang Meng
Published: April 2023

There is an urgent need to develop microwave absorbing materials with ultra‐broadband absorption and multiband stealth compatibility, but this is difficult to achieve due to the difficulty of perfect electromagnetic impedance matching. Therefore, inspired by the anti‐reflection moth eye model, this article prepares carbonyl iron (CIP)/polyurethane (PU) absorbing materials into three biomimetic structures of cylinder, circular cone, and semi‐ellipsoid structures to optimize the absorption performance, which realizes the effective absorption of 5.13–18 GHz. The simulation models proved that the biomimetic structures can improve the anti‐reflection performance by building gradient impedance inside the materials. Finally, under the synergistic action of multiple reflection and gradient impedance mechanisms, the effective absorption bandwidth (EAB) of the semi‐ellipsoid moth eye biomimetic structure material with a total thickness of 3 mm can reach 6.94 GHz. The material can still achieve the EAB of 6.84 GHz with a low infrared emissivity of 0.242 by constructing the double‐layer structure. This work effectively solves the problem that the EAB of traditional microwave absorbing materials is difficult to be broadened due to impedance mismatch, and puts forward a new idea for optimizing the performance of microwave absorbing materials and compatible stealth.
Toward Fully Printed Soft Actuators: UV‐Assisted Printing of Liquid Crystal Elastomers and Biphasic Liquid Metal Conductors
Authors: Sgotti Veiga João , Reis Carneiro Manuel , Molter Rafael , Vinciguerra Michael , Yao Lining , Majidi Carmel , Tavakoli Mahmoud
Published: April 2023

Development of soft and compliant actuators has attracted tremendous attention due to their use in soft robotics, wearables, haptics, and assistive devices. Despite decades of progress, the goal of entirely digitally‐printed actuators has yet to be fully demonstrated. Digital printing permits rapid customization of the actuator's geometry, size, and deformation profile, and is a step toward mass customization of user‐specific wearables and soft robotic systems. Herein, a set of materials and methods are demonstrated for rapid fabrication of 3D‐printed Liquid Crystal Elastomer actuators electrically stimulated via a printed joule heater composed of a Liquid Metal (LM)‐filled elastomer composite. Unlike other Ag‐based inks, this LM‐elastomer composite is sinter‐free, enabling room‐temperature printing, and is stretchable, allowing cyclic actuation without electrical or mechanical failure of the conductor. By optimizing printing parameters, and improving the photo‐polymerization setup, a printed actuator that bends to an angle of 320° is demonstrated, with lower power consumption than previous LCE actuators. We also demonstrate a customized UV‐polymerization setup that permits photo‐curing of the LCE actuator in ≈90s, i.e., >500x faster compared to previous works. The rapid photo‐polymerization enables progress toward 3D‐printing of multi‐layer actuators and is a step toward mass customization of fully digitally‐printed robotic and wearable devices.
Thermal Stability Improvement of Cr3+‐Activated Broadband Near‐Infrared Phosphors via State Population Optimization
Authors: Zhang Qiuhong , Wei Xiang , Zhou Jianbang , Milićević Bojana , Lin Litian , Huo Jiansheng , Li Junhao , Ni Haiyong , Xia Zhiguo
Published: April 2023

Technological progress has accelerated the researches into broadband near‐infrared (NIR) luminescent materials as next‐generation intelligent NIR light sources; however, poor thermal stability restricts the applications of NIR phosphors. Herein, new insights into Cr3+‐activated NIR phosphors with improved thermal stability are provided. The photoluminescence intensity originating from the 4T2→4A2 broadband emission of CaLu2Al4SiO12:Cr3+(CLAS:Cr) with optimal electron occupation (4T2/2E) increases up to 118% at 475 K compared with that at room temperature, which is the best for Cr3+‐activated broadband NIR phosphor. Accordingly, new ideas for the design of thermally stable phosphors are proposed by optimizing the thermal population between4T2and2E states and electron migration from2E to4T2state. Finally, multifunctional applications of CLAS:Cr in NIR fluorescence intensity ratio thermometry, X‐ray detection, NIR phosphor‐converted light‐emitting diodes, and bio‐imaging are demonstrated.
Sandwich Configuration of Zinc Anode, Gel Electrolyte, and Radical Polymer Cathode for Fully Stretch‐Rechargeable Battery
Authors: Ho Jin‐Chieh , Hatakeyama‐Sato Kan , Chiba Akinari , Hayashi Masaki , Igarashi Yuto , Oyaizu Kenichi , Chen Wen‐Chang
Published: April 2023

Over the past decade, there is gradual development in fully stretchable semiconductors. However, to bring these devices to market, they require a reliable built‐in power source that can maintain stable output voltage, charge/discharge capabilities, and cycle life. Unfortunately, complex cell configurations have hindered the development of stretchable batteries. To overcome this, a fully stretch‐rechargeable battery with a sandwich configuration is fabricated. The cathode layer comprises electrically conductive poly(3,4‐ethylenedioxythiophene) polystyrene sulfonate (PEDOT:PSS) and a redox‐active TEMPO‐substituted polymer, while the anode consists of a carbon nanotube layer deposited with zinc metal. By sandwiching a hydrogel between these two layers, a rechargeable battery is created that is attachable to human skin and <40 µm thick. This thin device offers a promising voltage of 1.8 V and is robust against repeated stretching, liquid leakage, and self‐discharging reactions induced by oxygen. This study is expected to open up new horizons for e‐skin and stretchable electronic fields.
Working capital management and firm sales growth: Evidence from fish processing industry
Authors: Rodeiro‐Pazos David , Fernández‐López Sara , Rios‐Rodríguez Raúl , Dios‐Vicente Adrián
Published: April 2023

Working capital management (WCM) is a critical matter for the growth of firms, especially small and medium‐sized manufacturing companies faced with liquidity shortages whose current assets account for a significant part of their investments. These characteristics describe most companies in the fish processing industry. Using a sample of more than 1050 European fish processing companies during the period 2013–2020 and applying dynamic panel data methods, this paper analyses the extent to which working capital investment and financing policies affect firm's sales growth. The empirical evidence reveals that the trade credit channel (i.e., accounts receivable and accounts payable) enhances sales growth, while the opposite effect is found for investment in inventories. Additionally, the findings insist on the importance of financing current assets with positive working capital to boost sales growth. [EconLit Citations: C23, G31, L25, L79, Q22].
An Interface‐Type Memristive Device for Artificial Synapse and Neuromorphic Computing
Authors: Kunwar Sundar , Jernigan Zachary , Hughes Zach , Somodi Chase , Saccone Michael D. , Caravelli Francesco , Roy Pinku , Zhang Di , Wang Haiyan , Jia Quanxi , MacManus-Driscoll Judith L. , Kenyon Garrett , Sornborger Andrew , Nie Wanyi , Chen Aiping
Published: April 2023

Interface‐type (IT) metal/oxide Schottky memristive devices have attracted considerable attention over filament‐type (FT) devices for neuromorphic computing because of their uniform, filament‐free, and analog resistive switching (RS) characteristics. The most recent IT devices are based on oxygen ions and vacancies movement to alter interfacial Schottky barrier parameters and thereby control RS properties. However, the reliability and stability of these devices have been significantly affected by the undesired diffusion of ionic species. Herein, a reliable interface‐dominated memristive device is demonstrated using a simple Au/Nb‐doped SrTiO3(Nb:STO) Schottky structure. The Au/Nb:STO Schottky barrier modulation by charge trapping and detrapping is responsible for the analog resistive switching characteristics. Because of its interface‐controlled RS, the proposed device shows low device‐to‐device, cell‐to‐cell, and cycle‐to‐cycle variability while maintaining high repeatability and stability during endurance and retention tests. Furthermore, the Au/Nb:STO IT memristive device exhibits versatile synaptic functions with an excellent uniformity, programmability, and reliability. A simulated artificial neural network with Au/Nb:STO synapses achieves a high recognition accuracy of 94.72% for large digit recognition from MNIST database. These results suggest that IT resistive switching can be potentially used for artificial synapses to build next‐generation neuromorphic computing.
Generation and mutational analysis of a transgenic murine model of the human MAF mutation
Authors: Fujino Mitsunori , Ojima Masami , Ishibashi Shun , Mizuno Seiya , Takahashi Satoru
Published: April 2023

Aymé‐Gripp syndrome is an autosomal dominant multisystem disorder. The major clinical features of this syndrome include congenital cataracts, sensorineural hearing loss, intellectual disability, and a distinctive flat facial appearance. MAF has been identified as a causative gene of the syndrome, and heterozygous variants owing to impairment in glycogen synthase kinase 3 (GSK3)‐mediated MAF phosphorylation shows related disorders. However, the underlying mechanisms of these types of disorders in affected individuals remain poorly understood. To explore the underlying mechanisms and discover new phenotypes, a murine model with a Maf mutation on a GSK3 phosphorylation motif, p.Thr58Ile, was generated using CRISPR‐Cas9 gene editing. This is a homologous mutation to that in human patients. Our murine model exhibited similar phenotypes to those in humans, such as lens abnormalities, short stature, growth retardation, and abnormal skull morphology. The murine model showed decreased brain volume and malocclusion. Considering the sequencing and genotyping data, our models were successfully generated for the first time (to the best of our knowledge). Therefore, this study offers new and unique functional insights into human and murine MAF and novel clinical values of MAF pathogenic variants associated with changes in the functions of several organs based on a viable murine model.
FDA‐approved carbonic anhydrase inhibitors reduce amyloid β pathology and improve cognition, by ameliorating cerebrovascular health and glial fitness
Authors: Canepa Elisa , Parodi‐Rullan Rebecca , Vazquez‐Torres Rafael , Gamallo‐Lana Begona , Guzman‐Hernandez Roberto , Lemon Nicole L. , Angiulli Federica , Debure Ludovic , Ilies Marc A. , Østergaard Leif , Wisniewski Thomas , Gutiérrez‐Jiménez Eugenio , Mar Adam C. , Fossati Silvia
Published: April 2023

Introduction

Cerebrovascular pathology is an early and causal hallmark of Alzheimer's disease (AD), in need of effective therapies.

Methods

Based on the success of our previous in vitro studies, we tested for the first time in a model of AD and cerebral amyloid angiopathy (CAA), the carbonic anhydrase inhibitors (CAIs) methazolamide and acetazolamide, Food and Drug Administration–approved against glaucoma and high‐altitude sickness.

Results

Both CAIs reduced cerebral, vascular, and glial amyloid beta (Aβ) accumulation and caspase activation, diminished gliosis, and ameliorated cognition in TgSwDI mice. The CAIs also improved microvascular fitness and induced protective glial pro‐clearance pathways, resulting in the reduction of Aβ deposition. Notably, we unveiled that the mitochondrial carbonic anhydrase‐VB (CA‐VB) is upregulated in TgSwDI brains, CAA and AD+CAA human subjects, and in endothelial cells upon Aβ treatment. Strikingly, CA‐VB silencing specifically reduces Aβ‐mediated endothelial apoptosis.

Discussion

This work substantiates the potential application of CAIs in clinical trials for AD and CAA.
1D Choline‐PbI3‐Based Heterostructure Boosts Efficiency and Stability of CsPbI3 Perovskite Solar Cells
Authors: Zhang Jianxin , Zhang Guizhi , Su Pei‐Yang , Huang Rong , Lin Jiage , Wang Wenran , Pan Zhenxiao , Rao Huashang , Zhong Xinhua
Published: April 2023

Defects in perovskite are key factors in limiting the photovoltaic performance and stability of perovskite solar cells (PSCs). Generally, choline halide (ChX) can effectively passivate defects by binding with charged point defects of perovskite. However, we verified that ChI can react with CsPbI3 to form a novel crystal phase of one‐dimensional (1D) ChPbI3, which constructs 1D/3D heterostructure with 3D CsPbI3, passivating the defects of CsPbI3 more effectively and then resulting in significantly improved photoluminescence lifetime from 20.2 ns to 49.4 ns. Moreover, the outstanding chemical inertness of 1D ChPbI3 and the repair of undesired δ‐CsPbI3 deficiency during its formation process can significantly enhance the stability of CsPbI3 film. Benefiting from 1D/3D heterostructure, CsPbI3 carbon‐based PSCs (C‐PSCs) delivered a champion efficiency of 18.05 % and a new certified record of 17.8 % in hole transport material (HTM)‐free inorganic C‐PSCs.
Photoinitiated Energy Transfer in Porous‐Cage‐Stabilised Silver Nanoparticles
Authors: Wilms Michael , Melendez Lesly V. , Hudson Rohan J. , Hall Christopher R. , Ratnayake Samantha Prabath , Smith Trevor , Gaspera Enrico Della , Bryant Gary , Connell Timothy U. , Gómez Daniel E.
Published: April 2023

We report a new composite material consisting of silver nanoparticles decorated with three‐dimensional molecular organic cages based on light‐absorbing porphyrins. The porphyrin cages serve to both stabilize the particles and allow diffusion and trapping of small molecules close to the metallic surface. Combining these two photoactive components results in a Fano‐resonant interaction between the porphyrin Soret band and the nanoparticle‐localised surface‐plasmon resonance. Time‐resolved spectroscopy revealed the silver nanoparticles transfer up to 37 % of their excited‐state energy to the stabilising layer of porphyrin cages. These unusual photophysics cause a 2‐fold current increase in photoelectrochemical water‐splitting measurements. The composite structure provides a compelling proof of concept for advanced photosensitiser systems with intrinsic porosity for photocatalytic and sensing applications.
Observation of the Chiral Soliton Lattice above Room Temperature
Authors: Brearton R. , Moody S. H. , Turnbull L. A. , Hatton P. D. , Štefančič A. , Balakrishnan G. , van der Laan G. , Hesjedal T.
Published: April 2023

Magnetic chiral soliton lattices (CSLs) emerge from the helical phase in chiral magnets when magnetic fields are applied perpendicular to the helical propagation vector, and they show great promise for next‐generation magnetic memory applications. These one‐dimensional structures are previously observed at low temperatures in samples with uniaxial symmetry. Here, it is found that in‐plane fields are the key to stabilizing the CSL in cubic Co8Zn10Mn2 over the entire temperature range from 15 K to below the Curie temperature (365 K). Using small‐angle resonant elastic X‐ray scattering, it is observed that the CSL is stabilized with an arbitrary in‐plane propagation vector, while its thin plate geometry plays a deciding role in the soliton wavelength as a function of applied field. This work paves the way for high temperature, real world applications of soliton physics in future magnetic memory devices.
A multi‐program analysis of cleft lip with cleft palate prevalence and mortality using data from 22 International Clearinghouse for Birth Defects Surveillance and Research programs, 1974–2014
Authors: Mc Goldrick Niall , Revie Gavin , Groisman Boris , Hurtado‐Villa Paula , Sipek Antonin , Khoshnood Babak , Rissmann Anke , Dastgiri Saeed , Landau Danielle , Tagliabue Giovanna , Pierini Anna , Gatt Miriam , Mutchinick Osvaldo M. , Martínez Laura , de Walle Hermein E.K. , Szabova Elena , Lopez Camelo Jorge ,   ECEMC Peripheral Group, Källén Karin , Morgan Margery , Wertelecki Wladimir , Nance Amy , Stallings Erin B. , Nembhard Wendy N. , Mossey Peter
Published: April 2023

Background

Cleft lip with cleft palate (CLP) is a congenital condition that affects both the oral cavity and the lips. This study estimated the prevalence and mortality of CLP using surveillance data collected from birth defect registries around the world.

Methods

Data from 22 population‐ and hospital‐based surveillance programs affiliated with the International Clearinghouse for Birth Defects Surveillance and Research (ICBDSR) in 18 countries on live births (LB), stillbirths (SB), and elective terminations of pregnancy for fetal anomaly (ETOPFA) for CLP from 1974 to 2014 were analyzed. Prevalence and survival (survival for LB only) estimates were calculated for total and subclassifications of CLP and by pregnancy outcome.

Results

The pooled prevalence of total CLP cases was 6.4 CLP per 10,000 births. The prevalence of CLP and all of the pregnancy outcomes varied across programs. Higher ETOPFA rates were recorded in most European programs compared to programs in other continents. In programs reporting low ETOPFA rates or where there was no ascertainment of ETOPFA, the rate of CLP among LB and SB was higher compared to those where ETOPFA rates were ascertained. Overall survival for total CLP was 91%. For isolated CLP, the survival was 97.7%. CLP associated with multiple congenital anomalies had an overall survival of 77.1%, and for CLP associated with genetic/chromosomal syndromes, overall survival was 40.9%.

Conclusions

Total CLP prevalence reported in this study is lower than estimates from prior studies, with variation by pregnancy outcomes between programs. Survival was lower when CLP was associated with other congenital anomalies or syndromes compared to isolated CLP.
Should I stay or should I go? Understanding stakeholder dis/engagement for deforestation‐free palm oil
Authors: Delabre Izabela , Lyons‐White Joss , Melot Clara , Veggeberg Eirik Ingwardo , Alexander Anthony , Schleper Martin C. , Ewers Robert M. , Knight Andrew T.
Published: April 2023

Addressing tropical deforestation in the palm oil sector involves a diverse range of stakeholders who engage or disengage with each other. Palm oil global value chain (GVC) firms (plantation companies, traders and processors, and consumer goods manufacturers and retailers), as well as nongovernmental organisations, financial institutions, consultancies and certification bodies, pursue their respective organisations' agendas through engagement practices, including through coalitions, in a palm oil sustainability network (POSN). Building on interviews with different stakeholder groups, this qualitative study characterises and critically analyses ‘stakeholder engagement’ by examining (1) the priority targets for engagement among different POSN stakeholders, (2) how mechanisms and tools are used in POSN stakeholder engagement or disengagement for addressing deforestation, and (3) the implications of stakeholder engagement or disengagement for addressing deforestation. Engagement and disengagement practices are shaped by and reshape GVC governance, with powerful stakeholders emerging as knowledge brokers and norm setters, raising important challenges for how deforestation is addressed.
An examination of UK companies' modern slavery disclosure practices: Does board gender diversity matter?
Authors: Moussa Tantawy , Allam Amir , Elmarzouky Mahmoud
Published: April 2023

The United Nations' Sustainable Development Goals persuade governments and businesses to fight modern slavery as part of the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development. The UK government took the initiative by introducing the Modern Slavery Act in 2015. Despite this, little is known about how companies disclose information about their efforts to tackle modern slavery as required by the Act and the role of corporate governance as a determinant of modern slavery disclosure (MSD) levels. This study, therefore, investigates the extent to which companies engage in MSD and empirically examines the impact of board gender diversity (BGD) on MSD. Based on a content analysis of FTSE 100 companies' modern slavery statements during the 2016–2020 period, we find that MSD improved over time but is still relatively low. Our results show that companies pay less attention to the core practices of modern slavery, such as key performance indicators (KPIs), due diligence procedures, risk assessment and management, and training. This evidence suggests that companies tend to comply with the Act by focusing largely on symbolic structures rather than providing a comprehensive disclosure of their impacts on modern slavery practices to minimise regulatory risks and manage stakeholders' perceptions. We also find that boards with greater female representation have a positive and significant association with MSD. This finding is consistent with the gender socialisation theory in that women are more sensitive to communal values and ethics. Consequently, companies with a greater proportion of female directors are more transparent about their strategies and actions related to fighting modern slavery. Furthermore, a critical mass of at least four female directors is necessary before any positive impact on MSD can be observed. Our findings shed new light on this under‐researched area and the role of female directors in addressing modern slavery risk and can be of interest to companies, policymakers, and other stakeholders.
Circular economy disclosure and integrated reporting: The role of corporate governance mechanisms
Authors: Esposito Benedetta , Raimo Nicola , Malandrino Ornella , Vitolla Filippo
Published: April 2023

In recent years, attention to the circular economy (CE) has grown considerably and it is now recognised as a model capable of overtaking the current linear economy of unsustainable production and consumption. Organisations have started to implement circular practices to transition towards this sustainable business model and to disclose CE performance to their stakeholders. In this context, the integrated report serves as a suitable tool to provide a holistic representation of how CE could impact the companies' ability to create value over time. The relevance of this model has prompted various scholars to examine CE disclosure. However, only some studies have investigated this topic in the integrated reporting (IR) context. To the best of the authors' knowledge, no studies have examined how corporate governance mechanisms can affect the amount of CE information disseminated through the integrated reports. By applying the lens of stakeholder‐agency theory, this study aims to fill this important gap by analysing the effect of the characteristics of the corporate governance mechanisms on the level of CE disclosure within the integrated reports. The analysis, conducted using a sample of 124 European companies, indicates a positive impact of the board size, board gender diversity and the presence of the corporate social responsibility (CSR) committee on the level of CE disclosure within the integrated reports.
A systematic assessment of multi‐dimensional risk factors for sustainable development in food grain supply chains: A business strategic prospective analysis
Authors: Das Sumanta , Myla Abhiram Yadav , Barve Akhilesh , Kumar Anil , Sahu Naresh Chandra , Muduli Kamalakanta , Luthra Sunil
Published: April 2023

The food grain supply chain (FGSC) is composed of several links, stretching from the point of production to the point of consumption. A broken connection might produce a food catastrophe. The structural imbalance of India's FGSC is an obstacle to achieving sustainability; this has to be addressed if the country is to preserve national food security. This present study aims to develop a systematic assessment of the risks and the priority of risk‐mitigating solutions in attaining sustainability in the Indian FGSC. Multiple groups of individuals and businesses involved in the FGSC have been surveyed and interviewed, with their responses analyzed. A total of 31 risk factors and 11 risk‐reduction strategies are identified. Further, the identified risk factors are classified into five‐dimensional sustainability criteria (environmental, economic, institutional, technical, and social) by using exploratory factor analysis (EFA). Then, a fuzzy analytical hierarchy process (FAHP), combined with the fuzzy technique for order performance by similarity to ideal solution (FTOPSIS) method, is adopted to find the most critical risk factors and choose the best course of strategies for risk mitigation. The study finds that inability to incorporate advanced technology imposes the highest risk to sustainability followed by natural disasters. Ensuring end‐to‐end computerization using advanced technology like agri 4.0 is the need of the hour in intercepting the range of FGSC risks. The results may help policymakers create a comprehensive risk mitigation plan and taxonomy to increase supply chain resilience.
Single Atom and Metal Cluster Catalysts in Organic Reactions: From the Solvent to the Solid
Authors: Oliver‐Meseguer Judit , Leyva‐Pérez Antonio
Published: April 2023

The supporting of pre‐formed soluble metal catalysts on solids is a typical methodology to transform soluble but unrecoverable metal complexes into recoverable and reusable solid catalysts. However, this methodology has been barely implemented for ligand‐less, bare single metal atoms (SMAs) and nanoclusters (NCs) in organic synthesis, despite these ultrasmall species can be formed in‐situ during reaction and be the truly catalytic species. The aim of this review is to explore how to speciate active single metal atoms and clusters during homogeneous catalysis (in solution), without ligands, and to prepare them independently, to be transferred to solid supports and catalyze organic reactions. In many cases, the translation to solids gives single atom catalysts (SACs). Supporting of ultrasmall metal aggregates gives more stable, reusable and, sometimes, chemoselective catalysts for representative organic reactions.