bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Determinação da curva de intensidade-duração-frequência do município de Cruzeiro do Sul – Acre
Authors: Albrigo Nayara Dos Santos , Pereira Maylla Tawanda dos Santos , Soares Nelma Tavares Dias , Andrade Gleibson De Souza , Souza Vinicius Alexandre Sikora de , Rosa Ana Lúcia Denardin da
Published: May 2021

Information on extreme rainfall events associated with predictability and probabilities, especially in intensity-duration-frequency (IDF) curves, are essential for the development of engineering projects aimed at sanitation, drainage and waterproofing of surfaces, which allow to offer more suitable conditions for dimensioning hydraulic and hydrological works and services. However, much of the North Region of the country does not have this information available or updated. Thus, the objective of this study was to develop the IDF equation for the municipality of Cruzeiro do Sul - AC. A 14-year historical series was used, distributed between 1993 and 2011, such data were analyzed by the Gumbel distribution, the same being related, by means of the daily rain breakdown, for return periods comprising 2 to 100 years and rainfall durations of 5 minutes to 24 hours. In the analysis for the construction of the curve, it was observed that the years 1995 and 2002 corresponded to the years with the highest precipitated height indexes, being 111 mm and 103 mm, respectively, however these events had an estimated return time between 3 and 8 years, which does not denote anomalous events. The IDF curve constructed in the study showed good adherence to the observed data, which proves its use in the region.
Número suficiente de repetições para análise de trilha em milho
Authors: Cargnelutti Filho Alberto , Toebe Marcos , Alves Bruna Mendonça , Neu Ismael Mario Marcio , Kleinpaul Jéssica Andiara
Published: May 2021

The number of replications is assumed to interfere in the estimates of the path analysis coefficients. Thus, the objective of this work was to determine the sufficient number of replications for the path analysis of traits in maize cultivars. An experiment was conducted with 15 maize cultivars in a complete randomized block design with nine replications, and seven variables were measured. Then, 511 data files (matrices) formed by all combinations of the nine replications were organized, in groups of 1, 2, 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8 and 9 replications. In each matrix, containing the averages of 15 cultivars for the seven variables, Pearson's linear correlation coefficients were estimated, the multicollinearity diagnostics and path analysis were performed and dispersion diagrams were constructed. The sufficient number of replications for the path analysis was determined from the parameter estimates of the quadratic response plateau model. With the replications number increases, the accuracy of the path analysis coefficient estimates improves, but the gains in accuracy gradually decrease. Six replications are sufficient to perform the path analysis of agronomic traits of maize cultivars and can be used as a reference for designing future experiments.
Correlation between subjective well-being and quality of life in elderly
Authors: Egeljić-Mihailović Nataša , Jović Duška , Knežević Darija
Published: May 2021

Introduction. The aim of the study was to examine the correlation between subjective well-being and quality of life of the elderly in relation to their demographic characteristics, health, social and financial status. Methods. The study sample was comprised of 159 subjects of both sexes and of older age. The respondents underwent research in Banja Luka in the premises of the Association of Pensioners of the Republic of Srpska, senior citizens' clubs when coming to some of financial institutions to get help, to open bank accounts etc., as well as in the premises where pensioners gather to socialize and communicate. The survey questionnaire developed for the purpose of the paper and adapted to this population was used in the study. The survey questionnaire consisted of the following elements: sociodemographic data, self-assessment concerning the quality of life and Quality of Life Scale for the Elderly. Results. The study included a total of 159 subjects, 56.6% males and 43.4% females, of whom the majority were 65-75 years old (67.3%). The average health status (M = 2.17; SD = 0.68) was higher than the expected value, while the social status (M = 1.93; SD = 0.60) and the social needs (M = 1.91; SD = 0.72) were slightly lower compared to theoretical mean. Furthermore, the financial status had an average value (M = 2.08; SD = 0.59). The distribution of social needs was unsatisfactory. The obtained value of the Self-Perceived Quality of Life Scale was within the range of the theoretical mean values (M = 5.54, SD = 2.47), indicating that the distribution of the obtained quality of life values was symmetrical. Conclusion. Financial status significantly affects the quality of life of the elderly. The distribution of social needs is unsatisfactory. The level of education significantly affects the quality of life: highly educated respondents have a better health, social and financial status compared to the elderly with a lower level of education.
Investment environment and development policy of enterprises in Serbia
Authors: Aničić Dušan , Nestorović Olgica , Anđelković Danijela
Published: May 2021

Despite significant growth rates of over 4% in 2018 and 2019, the Serbian economy still lags far behind developed countries in terms of productivity, competitiveness and other business performance indicators. In the future, the main drivers of economic growth must be investments and exports, and consumption must grow more slowly relative to GDP. Opportunities for increasing GDP exist, and one of them is the increase of public investments that have a positive effect on the growth of the rest of the economy. Empirical research has shown that countries that have higher domestic savings have higher investments and faster economic growth. Also, the development of the country must not be based only on the growth of FDI, because, in addition to the positive ones, they also have great negative effects on the growth and long-term sustainable development of the domestic economy.
Statistical tests and their application in geodesy
Authors: Martinenko Anastasija , Jevremović Vesna , Vranić Petko , Popović Jovan , Pejić Marko
Published: May 2021

The correct conclusion about the assumptions concerning some phenomena can be obtained only through scientific analysis of statistical data. The scientific procedure of verifying a hypothesis using measurement results is called a statistical test. Depending on whether the hypotheses about the parameters in the feature distribution are tested or the distribution as a whole is tested, a parametric or non-parametric test is selected. The most significant representatives of parametric tests are the Probability Ratio Test, the Neumann - Pearson Lemma and the Bootstrap method, while the Pearson x2 test and the Kolmogorov test are presented as representatives of nonparametric tests. The paper presents the theoretical basis of some methods used in construction of statistical tests with given examples in geodesy.
Enhancing the performances of the abrasive circular by designing a pneumatic system for automatic control of workpiece clamping and tool auxiliary motion
Authors: Pantelić Dragan , Vasiljević Rade
Published: May 2021

The paper presents the reconstruction of the factory clamping mechanism for abrasive circular in order to improve the technical characteristics. Reconstruction was done because of the disadvantages of this mechanism in operation. Instead of the mechanical clamping mechanism on the abrasive circular, the newly designed pneumatic clamping mechanism is integrated. The reconstructed work has significantly improved the operation of the abrasive circular. In the previous paper the first solution for the reconstruction of the abrasive circular clamping mechanism was presented. In this paper, the newly designed solution of the clamping mechanism has been improved by enabling the function of automatic motion of the abrasive grinding wheel. Also, the paper has been extended with calculating models of old and new clamping systems and representations of old and new fixture.
Redefining the number of postal network units according to the alternative scenario
Authors: Blagojević Mladenka , Ralević Predrag
Published: May 2021

This paper presents a potential solution to the issue of redefining the postal network, for the needs of an alternative reference scenario, using the DEA method. The authors use an integrated approach to analyze the cost efficiency of the postal network, which implies a separate consideration of the cost efficiency of delivery and non-delivery units of the network. The results obtained by combining the DEA method and the integrated approach can be useful for setting up and validating alternative scenario hypotheses, resulting in a redefined postal network.
Positive interpersonal relationships and knowledge sharing in top management teams
Authors:   Uniwersytet Mikołaja Kopernika w Toruniu, Glińska-Neweś Aldona , Sopińska Agnieszka ,   Szkoła Główna Handlowa w Warszawie, Łuka Alicja
Published: May 2021

The aim of the article is to determine the relatedness between the quality of interpersonal relationships, measured by the level of their positivity, with knowledge sharing among members of the top management teams (TMT). The analyses primarily concerned the relatedness between interpersonal relationships and a) the declared individual tendency to share knowledge, b) the motives of knowledge sharing among members of the surveyed teams, c) the forms of knowledge sharing. The empirical basis of the article is a CATI research on a sample of 123 managers who are members of decision-making teams in the furniture industry in Poland. The results obtained suggest that knowledge sharing within management teams is related to the level of positive interpersonal relationships of their members. These relationships strengthen the intrinsic motivation to share knowledge, reducing the importance of extrinsic motivators, as well as foster informal and direct forms of knowledge sharing, reducing the importance of institutionalized forms.
Impact of Wind Farms on the Economic and Financial Standing of the Korsze Commune
Authors:   Department of Economic Policy, University of Warmia and Mazury in Olsztyn, Rogalska Izabela , Opalach Damian ,   Department of Economic Policy, University of Warmia and Mazury in Olsztyn, Sańko Radosław ,   Department of Economic Policy, University of Warmia and Mazury in Olsztyn
Published: May 2021

Being an inexhaustible source of ecologically pure energy, wind is gaining an increasingly wider range of applications. This translates into the growing interest of investors in areas endowed with the conditions suitable for developing wind farms. An investment into wind turbines can generate many economic benefits for a local government, chiefly by ensuring higher revenues from real estate taxes. The main objective of this study has been to evaluate the impact of wind farms on the economic and financial standing of the Korsze commune. The study included secondary data obtained from the Municipal Office in Korsze and statistical data from Statistics Poland. The results showed that the implementation of the investment project consisting of building a wind farm in Korsze led to the commune acquiring new and stable sources of revenue, with distinctly higher real property tax incomes. Annually, the real estate tax revenues in Korsze in the first year after the wind farm had opened increased by 48%.
L’autonomie des sciences sociales en état d’urgence ?
Authors: Laurens Sylvain
Published: May 2021

Dix ans après le colloque qui a donné lieu à la parution de l’ouvrage Enquêter : de quel droit ?, cet article est l’occasion de dresser un bilan de l’évolution des dangers qui pèsent aujourd’hui sur l’exercice de la liberté de recherche. À partir d’une mini-enquête menée auprès des collègues ayant répondu à l’appel d’offres « Attentats » lancé par le CNRS, nous souhaiterions également reprendre à nouveaux frais cette question des contraintes juridiques posées à la recherche en concentrant la focale sur les formes d’hétéronomisation spécifiques qu’expérimente le champ académique lorsqu’il doit légitimer son utilité dans le contexte d’une réactivation régulière de l’état d’urgence.
Sociologie de l’éthique de la recherche contemporaine
Authors: Otero Marcelo
Published: May 2021

Cet article se propose de comprendre sociologiquement la montée du maximalisme moral en matière d’éthique de la recherche en mettant de l’avant cinq pistes d’analyse solidaires : 1- les transformations intervenues dans les conditions sociétales de « confiance systémique » (Luhmann) qui dessinent une nouvelle scène normative ; 2- la banalisation du « risque ordinaire » (Beck) comme rapport sociétal qui sous-tend le maximalisme moral ; 3- l’institutionnalisation du « cynisme réflexif » (Sloterdijk) comme position stratégique courante des acteurs mobilisés autour de l’éthique de la recherche ; 4- l’opposition fondamentale entre « maximalisme moral » et « minimalisme éthique » comme l’effet sociétal des nouvelles conditions normatives de confiance ; et 5- la position paradoxale que l’injonction à l’autonomie occupe dans les sociétés contemporaines à la fois prescrite comme vertu cardinale de l’individualité et minorisée par le précautionnisme bureaucratique et le providentialisme moral.
Procédure et pratique en éthique de la recherche
Authors: Tremblay Pier-Olivier
Published: May 2021

Les comités d’éthique de la recherche (CER) et les dynamiques qu’ils induisent dans les sciences sociales ont fait l’objet de plusieurs travaux critiques depuis le début des années 2000. Cet article poursuit la réflexion amorcée par ces travaux en considérant la dimension normative de l’éthique de la recherche telle qu’elle est définie par l’Énoncé de politique des trois conseils (EPTC) au Canada. Cette normativité est mise en évidence à travers une description du contexte politique et philosophique à l’origine de la bioéthique et par une comparaison des principes moraux contenus dans l’EPTC à des exemples de relations d’enquête tirés de mes expériences de recherche. L’article défend l’idée que l’EPTC, par ses racines morales bioéthiques, représente un outil pour les comités d’éthique pouvant reconduire un déclassement de la vie conçue comme fait social et politique au profit de la vie conçue comme fait biologique. Les relations d’enquête proposées en contre-exemple mettent en scène une négociation du consentement qui vise la reconnaissance de la vie humaine comme fait social et politique. Cette négociation, en plus d’être à la base de la confiance accordée par les participant-e-s, a le potentiel de faire émerger d’autres enjeux qui peuvent amener les chercheur-e-s à questionner leur approche et leurs présupposés éthiques. Le terrain devient ainsi un enchevêtrement de cadres de références où la procédure, la pratique et l’ordinaire se rencontrent et complexifient pour les chercheur-e-s l’identification de ce qui devrait être considéré comme une question d’éthique de la recherche.
Organ geometry channels reproductive cell fate in the Arabidopsis ovule primordium
Authors: Hernandez-Lagana Elvira , Mosca Gabriella , Mendocilla-Sato Ethel , Pires Nuno , Frey Anja , Giraldo-Fonseca Alejandro , Michaud Caroline , Grossniklaus Ueli , Hamant Olivier , Godin Christophe , Boudaoud Arezki , Grimanelli Daniel , Autran Daphné , Baroux Célia
Published: May 2021

In multicellular organisms, sexual reproduction requires the separation of the germline from the soma. In flowering plants, the female germline precursor differentiates as a single spore mother cell (SMC) as the ovule primordium forms. Here, we explored how organ growth contributes to SMC differentiation. We generated 92 annotated 3D images at cellular resolution in Arabidopsis. We identified the spatio-temporal pattern of cell division that acts in a domain-specific manner as the primordium forms. Tissue growth models uncovered plausible morphogenetic principles involving a spatially confined growth signal, differential mechanical properties, and cell growth anisotropy. Our analysis revealed that SMC characteristics first arise in more than one cell but SMC fate becomes progressively restricted to a single cell during organ growth. Altered primordium geometry coincided with a delay in the fate restriction process in katanin mutants. Altogether, our study suggests that tissue geometry channels reproductive cell fate in the Arabidopsis ovule primordium.
Effects of education methods on self-efficacy of smoking cessation counseling among medical students
Authors: Cho Ara , Lee Jeonggyu , Kim YunJin , Cho Byung Mann , Lee Sang Yeoup , Kong Eunhee , Kim Minjeong , Kim Jinseung , Jung Dong Sik , Han Seongho
Published: May 2021

Background

Medical students need to receive training in providing smoking cessation counseling to provide effective smoking cessation interventions to smokers when they become doctors. This study examined the smoking cessation education curricula and factors affecting counseling self-efficacy (CSE) in smoking cessation treatment among medical students.

Methods

In a multicenter cross-sectional study, we obtained demographic information, personal history of tobacco use and intention to quit smoking, exposure to secondhand smoke in the school premises during the past week, the experience of learning about tobacco in each medical school, tobacco-related medical knowledge, and self-efficacy in smoking cessation counseling on medical students of four Korean medical schools.

Results

Among 1,416 medical students eligible, 313 (22.1%) students completed a self-administered questionnaire. Only 20.3% of the students reported positive CSE on smoking cessation. The factors affecting positive CSE were scores of ≥ 60 on tobacco-related medical knowledge, smoking experience, and blended learning (p = 0.014, 0.005, and 0.015, respectively).

Conclusion

This study shows that high scores in tobacco-related medical knowledge and blended learning are correlated with positive CSE for smoking cessation counseling.
Competing endogenous RNA network identifies mRNA biomarkers for overall survival of lung adenocarcinoma: two novel on-line precision medicine predictive tools
Authors: Lin Jinsong , Lu Shubiao , Jiang Zhijian , Hu Chongjing , Zhang Zhiqiao
Published: May 2021

Background

Individual mortality risk predicted curve at the individual level can provide valuable information for directing individual treatment decision. The present study attempted to explore potential post-transcriptional biological regulatory mechanism related with overall survival of lung adenocarcinoma (LUAD) patients through competitive endogenous RNA (ceRNA) network and develop two precision medicine predictive tools for predicting the individual mortality risk curves for overall survival of LUAD patients.

Methods

Multivariable Cox regression analyses were performed to explore the potential prognostic indicators, which were used to construct a prognostic model for overall survival of LUAD patients. Time-dependent receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curves were used to assess the predictive performance of prognostic model.

Results

There were 494 LUAD patients in model cohort and 233 LUAD patients in validation cohort. Differentially expressed mRNAs, miRNAs, and lncRNAs were identified between LUAD tissues and normal tissues. A ceRNA regulatory network was constructed on previous differentially expressed mRNAs, miRNAs, and lncRNAs. Fourteen mRNA biomarkers were identified as independent risk factors by multivariate Cox regression and used to develop a prognostic model for overall survival of LUAD patients. The C-indexes of prognostic model in model group were 0.786 (95% CI [0.744–0.828]), 0.736 (95% CI [0.694–0.778]) and 0.766 (95% CI [0.724–0.808]) for one year, two year and three year overall survival respectively. Two precision medicine predicted tools were developed for predicting individual mortality risk curves for LUAD patients.

Conclusion

The current study explored potential post-transcriptional biological regulatory mechanism and prognostic biomarkers for overall survival of LUAD patients. Two on-line precision medicine predictive tools were helpful to predict the individual mortality risk predicted curves for overall survival of LUAD patients. Smart Cancer Survival Predictive System could be used at https://zhangzhiqiao2.shinyapps.io/Smart_cancer_predictive_system_9_LUAD_E1002/.
Assessment of High-yielding Rapeseed-mustard Varieties in Haor (Wetland) Ecosystem for Development of Mustard-Boro Rice-Fallow Pattern in Sylhet Region of Bangladesh
Authors: Debnath Subrato , Miah Mohammad Noor Hossain , Biswas Mrityunjoy , Hoque Mozammel , Foysal Rafat Al
Published: May 2021

Aims: To assess the suitability of short duration high yielding rapeseed-mustard variety(s) cultivation in the haor (wetland) areas.

Study Design: Randomized complete block (RCB).

Place and Duration of Study: Farmers’ field of Lalakhal, Jaintapur Upazila of Sylhet, Bangladesh during November 2014 to February 2015.

Methodology: The treatments included in the experiment were seven rapeseed-mustard varieties viz.  i. Tori-7, ii. BARI sarisha-13, iii. BARI sarisha-14, iv. BARI sarisha-15, v. BARI sarisha-16, vi. advanced line Nap-205 and vii. BINA sarisha-4. Design of the experiment was randomized complete block (RCB) with three replications.

Results: The results revealed that BARI sarisha-16 produced the highest seed yield (1.99 t ha-1), but it took the maximum days (92) to maturity. The variety BARI sarisha-15 produced the second highest seed yield (1.78 t ha-1) closely followed by BINA sarisha-4 (1.75 t ha-1) and BARI sarisha-13 (1.68 t ha-1). The lowest seed yield (1.53 t ha-1) was obtained from the variety Tori-7 which was statistically similar to that of BARI sarisha-14 (1.59 t ha-1) and Nap-205 (1.68 t ha-1). Tori-7 took the minimum days (74.7) to maturity while BARI sarisha-15 took 77.7 days.

Conclusion: Variety BARI sarisha-15 could be a good option for haor areas for cultivation in medium low land before Boro rice after recession of rainwater, as it took less duration to maturity (77.7 days) with good seed yield (1.78 t ha-1).
Morphological Characteristics of Scutellonema bradys Populations Responsible for Yam Dry Rot in Côte d’Ivoire
Authors: Kouakou Yadom Y. F. R. , Kra Kouamé Daniel , Yeyeh Toualy Marie Noël , Diallo Hortense Atta
Published: May 2021

The great diversity of agroecological factors that cover the yam production area in Côte d’Ivoire can be a source of morphological variability within Scutellonema bradys species, responsible for yam dry rot. This study aims at identifying the morphological group(s) of S. bradys which infect(s) yam Dioscorea cayenensis-rotundata. Two hundred ten yam tubers for sale in food markets in the Autonomous District of Abidjan were sampled from traders. After extraction and identification, a morphological characterization was carried out on S. bradys populations using morphological descriptors. Yam tubers sampled from food markets came from three agroecological zones namely dry tropical savannah, semi-deciduous dense forest and transitional forest areas. Morphometric variables and ratios used individually did not help identify morphological groups. Principal component analysis, however, performed with the most discriminating variables and ratios revealed three morphological groups named "large", "medium" and "small" in males and females and confirmed by the agglomerative hierarchical clustering. Each group consisted of a rate greater than 48% of individuals from a given agroecological zone. Three morphological groups of S. bradys are associated with yam dry rot in Côte d’Ivoire. Pathogenic and molecular characterization of the morphological groups would be necessary with a view to researching control methods.
The Promotion Effect of Cu on the Pd/C Catalyst in the Chemoselective Hydrogenation of Unsaturated Carbonyl Compounds
Authors: Mustikasari Kamilia , Rodiansono Rodiansono , Astuti Maria Dewi , Husain Sadang , Sutomo Sutomo
Published: May 2021

Highly efficient and selective hydrogenation of a,b-unsaturated carbonyl compounds to unsaturated alcohol using bimetallic palladium-copper supported on carbon (denoted as Pd-Cu(3.0)/C; 3.0 is Pd/Cu molar ratio) catalyst is demonstrated. Pd-Cu(3.0)/C catalyst was prepared via a simple hydrothermal route under air atmosphere at 150 °C for 24 h followed by reduction with hydrogen at 400°C for 1.5 h. The chemoselective hydrogenation of typical a,b-unsaturated carbonyl ketone (2-cyclohexene-1-one) and aldehyde (trans-2-hexenaldehyde), and chemoselective hydrogenation of FFald and (E)-non-3-en-2-one mixture demonstrated high productivity, leading to high selectivity of unsaturated alcohols. The presence of bimetallic Pd-Cu alloy phase with relatively high H2 uptakes was observed, enabling to preferentially hydrogenate C=O rather than to C=C bonds under mild reaction conditions. Pd-Cu(3.0)/C catalyst was found to stable and reusable for at least four reaction runs and the activity and selectivity of the catalyst can be restored to the original after rejuvenation with H2 at 400 °C for 1.5 h. Copyright © 2021 by Authors, Published by BCREC Group. This is an open access article under the CC BY-SA License (https://creativecommons.org/licenses/by-sa/4.0).
Absence of CG methylation alters the long noncoding transcriptome landscape in multiple species
Authors: Zhao Ting , Mei Huan , Cao Zeyi , Wang Luyao , Tao Xiaoyuan , Feng Shouli , Fang Lei , Guan Xueying
Published: May 2021

The noncoding regions throughout the genome are in large part comprised of transposable elements (TEs), some of which are functionalized with long intergenic noncoding RNAs (lincRNAs). DNA methylation is predominantly associated with TEs, but little is known about its contribution to the transcription of lincRNAs. Here, we examine the lincRNA profiles of DNA methylation‐related mutants of five species, Arabidopsis, rice, tomato, maize, and mouse, to elucidate patterns in lincRNA regulation under altered DNA methylation status. Significant activation of lincRNAs was observed in the absence of CG DNA methylation rather than non‐CG. Our study establishes a working model of the contribution of DNA methylation to regulation of the dynamic activity of lincRNA transcription.
Laser‐Induced Surface Reconstruction of Nanoporous Au‐Modified TiO2 Nanowires for In Situ Performance Enhancement in Desorption and Ionization Mass Spectrometry
Authors: Kim Moon‐Ju , Yun Tae Gyeong , Noh Joo‐Yoon , Song Zhiquan , Kim Hong‐Rae , Kang Min‐Jung , Pyun Jae‐Chul
Published: May 2021

The physicochemical properties of nanostructured substrates significantly impact laser desorption/ionization mass spectrometry (LDI‐MS) performance. Fundamental understanding of the substrate properties can provide insights into the design and development of an efficient LDI matrix. Herein, a hybrid matrix of nanoporous Au‐modified TiO2 nanowires (npAu‐TNW) is developed to achieve enhanced LDI‐MS performance. Its origin is investigated based on hybrid matrix properties including photo–thermal conversion and electronic band structure. Notably, further improvement is obtained in the npAu‐TNW than in the pristine TNW and non‐porous Au nanoisland‐modified TNW (Au‐TNW) hybrid, which is attributed to the laser‐induced surface restructuring/melting phenomenon. Noticeable surface restructuring/melting occurs in the npAu by laser exposure through efficient photo–thermal conversion of the highly porous npAu. At this instant of npAu structural changes, internal energy transfer from the npAu to the adsorbed analyte is promoted, which facilitates desorption. Moreover, strain is developed in situ in the TNW adjacent to the restructuring npAu, which distorts the TNW lattice. The strain development reduces recombination rates of charge carriers by introducing shallow trap levels in the bandgap, which enhances the ionization process. Ultimately, the high LDI‐MS performance based on the npAu‐TNW hybrid matrix is demonstrated by analyzing neurotransmitter.
Wireless and Flexible Skin Moisture and Temperature Sensor Sheets toward the Study of Thermoregulator Center
Authors: Lu Yuyao , Fujita Yusuke , Honda Satoko , Yang Shin‐Hsin , Xuan Yan , Xu Kaichen , Arie Takayuki , Akita Seiji , Takei Kuniharu
Published: May 2021

A disorder in the thermoregulator center in a human body leads to some potential diseases such as fever and hyperthyroidism. To predict these diseases early, monitoring the health condition of the human body due to the influence of thermoregulation disorders is important. Although extensive works are performed on sweat‐rate detection by constructing microfluidic channels, skin‐moisture evaporation before sweating remains unknown. This work proposes a wireless and flexible sensor sheet to investigate the thermoregulatory responses of different people under cold stimulation and exercise by measuring the temperature and moisture variations on the finger skin. An integrated flexible sensor system consists of a ZnIn2S4 nanosheet‐based humidity sensor and carbon nanotube/SnO2 temperature sensor. The results exhibit distinct thermoregulation abilities of five volunteers. Interestingly, the sudden increase in finger moisture that results from the excitation by the sympathetic nerve is observed during the cold‐stimulus test. Although further studies are required to predict the potential diseases resulted from thermoregulation disorders in human body, this study provides a possibility of continuous and real‐time monitoring of thermoregulatory activities via skin moisture and temperature detection using a flexible sensor sheet.
3D Printed Porous Methacrylate/Silica Hybrid Scaffold for Bone Substitution
Authors: Chung Justin J. , Yoo Jin , Sum Brian S. T. , Li Siwei , Lee Soojin , Kim Tae Hee , Li Zhenlun , Stevens Molly M. , Georgiou Theoni K. , Jung Youngmee , Jones Julian R.
Published: May 2021

Inorganic–organic hybrid biomaterials made with star polymer poly(methyl methacrylate‐co‐3‐(trimethoxysilyl)propyl methacrylate) and silica, which show promising mechanical properties, are 3D printed as bone substitutes for the first time, by direct ink writing of the sol. Three different inorganic:organic ratios of poly(methyl methacrylate‐co‐3‐(trimethoxysilyl)propyl methacrylate)‐star‐SiO2 hybrid inks are printed with pore channels in the range of 100–200 µm. Mechanical properties of the 3D printed scaffolds fall within the range of trabecular bone, and MC3T3 pre‐osteoblast cells are able to adhere to the scaffolds in vitro, regardless of their compositions. Osteogenic and angiogenic properties of the hybrid scaffolds are shown using a rat calvarial defect model. Hybrid scaffolds with 40:60 inorganic:organic composition are able to instigate new vascularized bone formation within its pore channels and polarize macrophages toward M2 phenotype. 3D printing inorganic–organic hybrids with sophisticated polymer structure opens up possibilities to produce novel bone graft materials.
Multifaceted Design and Emerging Applications of Tissue Adhesives
Authors: Ma Zhenwei , Bao Guangyu , Li Jianyu
Published: May 2021

Tissue adhesives can form appreciable adhesion with tissues and have found clinical use in a variety of medical settings such as wound closure, surgical sealants, regenerative medicine, and device attachment. The advantages of tissue adhesives include ease of implementation, rapid application, mitigation of tissue damage, and compatibility with minimally invasive procedures. The field of tissue adhesives is rapidly evolving, leading to tissue adhesives with superior mechanical properties and advanced functionality. Such adhesives enable new applications ranging from mobile health to cancer treatment. To provide guidelines for the rational design of tissue adhesives, here, existing strategies for tissue adhesives are synthesized into a multifaceted design, which comprises three design elements: the tissue, the adhesive surface, and the adhesive matrix. The mechanical, chemical, and biological considerations associated with each design element are reviewed. Throughout the report, the limitations of existing tissue adhesives and immediate opportunities for improvement are discussed. The recent progress of tissue adhesives in topical and implantable applications is highlighted, and then future directions toward next‐generation tissue adhesives are outlined. The development of tissue adhesives will fuse disciplines and make broad impacts in engineering and medicine.
Electrically Induced Mixed Valence Increases the Conductivity of Copper Helical Metallopolymers
Authors: Greenfield Jake L. , Di Nuzzo Daniele , Evans Emrys W. , Senanayak Satyaprasad P. , Schott Sam , Deacon Jason T. , Peugeot Adele , Myers William K. , Sirringhaus Henning , Friend Richard H. , Nitschke Jonathan R.
Published: May 2021

Controlling the flow of electrical current at the nanoscale typically requires complex top‐down approaches. Here, a bottom‐up approach is employed to demonstrate resistive switching within molecular wires that consist of double‐helical metallopolymers and are constructed by self‐assembly. When the material is exposed to an electric field, it is determined that ≈25% of the copper atoms oxidize from CuI to CuII, without rupture of the polymer chain. The ability to sustain such a high level of oxidation is unprecedented in a copper‐based molecule: it is made possible here by the double helix compressing in order to satisfy the new coordination geometry required by CuII. This mixed‐valence structure exhibits a 104‐fold increase in conductivity, which is projected to last on the order of years. The increase in conductivity is explained as being promoted by the creation, upon oxidation, of partly filled orbitals aligned along the mixed‐valence copper array; the long‐lasting nature of the change in conductivity is due to the structural rearrangement of the double‐helix, which poses an energetic barrier to re‐reduction. This work establishes helical metallopolymers as a new platform for controlling currents at the nanoscale.
Characterization and Quantification of Depletion and Accumulation Layers in Solid‐State Li+‐Conducting Electrolytes Using In Situ Spectroscopic Ellipsometry
Authors: Katzenmeier Leon , Carstensen Leif , Schaper Simon J. , Müller‐Buschbaum Peter , Bandarenka Aliaksandr S.
Published: May 2021

The future of mobility depends on the development of next‐generation battery technologies, such as all‐solid‐state batteries. As the ionic conductivity of solid Li+‐conductors can, in some cases, approach that of liquid electrolytes, a significant remaining barrier faced by solid‐state electrolytes (SSEs) is the interface formed at the anode and cathode materials, with chemical instability and physical resistances arising. The physical properties of space charge layers (SCLs), a widely discussed phenomenon in SSEs, are still unclear. In this work, spectroscopic ellipsometry is used to characterize the accumulation and depletion layers. An optical model is developed to quantify their thicknesses and corresponding concentration changes. It is shown that the Li+‐depleted layer (≈190 nm at 1 V) is thinner than the accumulation layer (≈320 nm at 1 V) in a glassy lithium‐ion‐conducting glass ceramic electrolyte (a trademark of Ohara Corporation). The in situ approach combining electrochemistry and optics resolves the ambiguities around SCL formation. It opens up a wide field of optical measurements on SSEs, allowing various experimental studies in the future.
A Field‐Deployable, Wearable Leaf Sensor for Continuous Monitoring of Vapor‐Pressure Deficit
Authors: Yin Shihao , Ibrahim Hussam , Schnable Patrick S. , Castellano Michael J. , Dong Liang
Published: May 2021

This work presents a wearable sensor for real‐time on‐leaf monitoring of relative humidity (RH), temperature, and vapor‐pressure deficit (VPD) of plants in both controlled environments and under field conditions. This sensor is flexible and conformable to the leaf surface. By integrating a graphene‐based RH sensing element and a gold‐based thin‐film thermistor on a polyimide sheet, the sensor allows accurate and continuous determination of VPD at the leaf surface, thereby providing information on plant transpiration. A greenhouse experiment validates the ability of the sensor to continuously and simultaneously monitor both the leaf RH and temperature of maize plants over more than 2 weeks. The sensor output also demonstrates the influences of light and irrigation on maize transpiration. Uniquely, by attaching multiple sensors onto different locations of a plant, it is possible to estimate the time required for water to be transported from the roots to each of the measured leaves along the stalk, as well as longitudinally from one position on a leaf toward the leaf tip. Sensors are also deployed in crop production fields where they demonstrate the ability to detect difference in transpiration between fertilized and unfertilized maize plants.
On‐Chip Mercury‐Free Deep‐UV Light‐Emitting Sources with Ultrahigh Germicidal Efficiency
Authors: Sharma Vijay Kumar , Tan Swee Tiam , Haiyang Zheng , Shendre Sushant , Baum Alexandra , Chalvet Francis , Tirén Jonas , Demir Hilmi Volkan
Published: May 2021

In the current COVID‐19 scenario, there is an urgent need for developing efficient and mercury‐free deep‐ultraviolet (deep‐UV) light sources for disinfection applications. AlGaN‐based light‐emitting diodes (LEDs) may be considered as an alternative, but due to their inherent low efficiencies in the deep‐UV spectral region, significant developments are required to address efficiency issues. Here, a mercury‐free chip‐size deep‐UV light source is shown which is enabled by high‐vacuum chip‐scale cavity sealing overcoming the limitations of both mercury lamps and deep‐UV LEDs. These deep‐UV chips are cathodoluminescence based, in which a cavity is created with high vacuum integrity for efficient field‐emission. These chips demonstrate optical output power ≥20 mW (efficiency ≈4%) and, owing to the spectral overlap of phosphor cathodoluminescence spectra and germicidal effectiveness curve, resulted in log 6 (99.9999%) germicidal efficiency. Additionally, these chips offer high reliability, “instant” ON/OFF capability, high operational lifetimes, and low‐temperature dependence with complete design freedom.
Nanoscale Chemical Imaging of Nanoparticles under Real‐World Wastewater Treatment Conditions
Authors: Gomez‐Gonzalez Miguel A. , Koronfel Mohamed A. , Pullin Huw , Parker Julia E. , Quinn Paul D. , Inverno Maria D. , Scott Thomas B. , Xie Fang , Voulvoulis Nikolaos , Yallop Marian L. , Ryan Mary P. , Porter Alexandra E.
Published: May 2021

Understanding nanomaterial transformations within wastewater treatment plants is an important step to better predict their potential impact on the environment. Here, spatially resolved, in situ nano‐X‐ray fluorescence microscopy is applied to directly observe nanometer‐scale dissolution, morphological, and chemical evolution of individual and aggregated ZnO nanorods in complex “real‐world” conditions: influent water and primary sludge collected from a municipal wastewater system. A complete transformation of isolated ZnO nanorods into ZnS occurs after only 1 hour in influent water, but larger aggregates of the ZnO nanorods transform only partially, with small contributions of ZnS and Zn‐phosphate (Zn3(PO4)2) species, after 3 hours. Transformation of aggregates of the ZnO nanorods toward mixed ZnS, Zn adsorbed to Fe‐oxyhydroxides, and a large contribution of Zn3(PO4)2 phases are observed during their incubation in primary sludge for 3 hours. Discrete, isolated ZnO regions are imaged with unprecedented spatial resolution, revealing their incipient transformation toward Zn3(PO4)2. Passivation by transformation(s) into mixtures of less soluble phases may influence the subsequent bioreactivity of these nanomaterials. This work emphasizes the importance of imaging the nanoscale chemistry of mixtures of nanoparticles in highly complex, heterogeneous semi‐solid matrices for improved prediction of their impacts on treatment processes, and potential environmental toxicity following release.
Recent Developments in Visible‐Light‐Absorbing Semitransparent Photoanodes for Tandem Cells Driving Solar Water Splitting
Authors: Kawase Yudai , Higashi Tomohiro , Domen Kazunari , Takanabe Kazuhiro
Published: May 2021

The development of an efficient conversion system to transform solar energy into chemical energy, such as renewable hydrogen, is a promising way to overcome energy problems. Photoelectrochemical (PEC) water splitting is a promising means of obtaining renewable hydrogen directly from water utilizing sunlight. Recent reports have demonstrated that a PEC cell with a tandem configuration (tandem cell) has the potential to realize a high solar‐to‐hydrogen (STH) energy conversion efficiency by solar water splitting. However, there are still many obstacles to the development of practical and cost‐effective tandem cells. In particular, development of efficient photoanodes for the oxygen evolution reaction (OER) is a prerequisite for improving the STH efficiency. Herein, recent progress in developing (semi)transparent photoanodes for the OER, such as Fe2O3, BiVO4, and Ta3N5, is described based on the topics of preparation methods, semiconductor properties, and PEC performance. In addition, the strategies for enhancing the STH efficiency of tandem cells consisting of (semi)transparent photoanodes conjugated with photovoltaic (PV)‐based cathodes are summarized. This Review is expected to provide guidelines for the future development of tandem cells capable of highly efficient and stable water splitting.
Metal–Organic Frameworks and Their Derived Functional Materials for Supercapacitor Electrode Application
Authors: Tian Di , Wang Ce , Lu Xiaofeng
Published: May 2021

Metal–organic frameworks (MOFs) are deemed an attractive type of active material during electrochemical reaction processes because of their unique compositional and structural superiority, as well as the dual role as both templates and precursors to derive a large variety of functional materials for energy conversation and storage. Herein, reviewing the recent advances of MOFs and their derived functional materials as electrode materials in supercapacitors, which are classified into pristine MOFs, MOF composites, and MOF‐derived functional materials, is focused on. Their synthetic routes and modification strategies are summarized and the relationship between the diversity of the architectures and compositions of MOF‐based materials and their electrochemical performance is discussed. In addition, the challenges and opportunities on future research and extensive applications of MOFs and their derived functional materials are offered.
Eliciting High‐Performance Thermoelectric Materials via Phase Diagram Engineering: A Review
Authors: Deng Ping-Yuan , Yen Wan-Ting , Tsai Yi-Fen , Jen I-Lun , Chen Bo-Chia , Wu Hsin-Jay
Published: May 2021

Thermoelectric (TE) materials and devices have been a promising green technology since the 1960s. Enormous research efforts bring forth TE generator and TE refrigerator, in which the former specializes in waste heat recovery while the latter advances the spot‐cooling technology. For both TE applications, the thermoelectric figure‐of‐merit zT =  (s

2

σ)T/k is keen to be raised, where the Seebeck coefficient S, electrical conductivity σ and thermal conductivity κ are correlated. In complex TE materials, the stoichiometry modulation and maximal solubility of foreign atoms play vital roles. Phase diagram engineering bridges the equilibrium phase diagrams with transport properties, opening a new avenue of thermodynamic‐based optimization. This article reviews the phase diagram engineering, which tunes the TE performance for the state‐of‐art TE materials, including the bismuth‐tellurides, the zinc‐antimonides, the lead‐tellurides, and the germanium‐tellurides. Examples of I–V–VI2 and I–III–VI2 (I = Ag, Cu; III = Ga; VI2 = S, Se, Te) compounds incorporated with phase diagram engineering are also discussed. All the cases aim to validate that phase diagram engineering could be a general approach for TE materials.
End‐of‐Life Photovoltaic Recycled Silicon: A Sustainable Circular Materials Source for Electronic Industries
Authors: Rahman Md Mokhlesur , Mateti Srikanth , Sultana Irin , Hou Chunping , Falin Alexey , Cizek Pavel , Glushenkov Alexey M. , Chen Ying
Published: May 2021

One cannot claim solar panels to be recyclable, in a circular economy sense, until scientists find a way to harvest and repurpose their most valuable components, and silicon is one of them. The photovoltaic (PV) industry uses high‐quality silicon wafers for the fabrication of solar cells. PV recycled silicon, however, is not suitable for any application without further purification, as it contains various impurities. Herein, an advanced repurpose process of chemical etching combined ball milling is developed and optimized to produce high‐quality nanosilicon recovered from end‐of‐life PV panels and subsequent nanosilicon/graphite hybrid formation for the application in lithium‐ion batteries. The crucial feature of the hybrid's structure is that the obtained PV nanosilicon with various shapes and sizes is dispersed homogeneously and wrapped by graphitic matrix under ball milling, creating a superior electrode architecture. The PV nanosilicon/graphite anode consisting of 5 wt% nanosilicon exhibits promising electrochemical performance with a charge capacity of 426 mAh g−1 after 600 cycles, a capacity retention of 70%, a rate capability of 215 mAh g−1 at 5 C, and an average coulombic efficiency of ≈99.4%. By converting PV recycled silicon to exceptionally high‐value nanosilicon, the value of the recycled material is maximized.
Optimal patient selection for successful two‐stage hepatectomy of bilateral colorectal liver metastases
Authors: Imai Katsunori , Allard Marc‐Antoine , Baba Hideo , Adam René
Published: May 2021

Two‐stage hepatectomy (TSH) is one of the specific surgical techniques that can expand the pool of resectable patients with initially unresectable colorectal liver metastases (CRLM). The indication of TSH for CRLM is only bilateral, multinodular disease, which cannot be resected by a single hepatectomy. TSH is nowadays considered an effective treatment for selected patients, with acceptable morbidity/mortality rates and promising long‐term outcomes. However, not all eligible patients can benefit from the TSH strategy. One of the most important issues is dropout from the strategy (failure to complete both of the two sequential procedures), because the survival of such patients is drastically worse compared with patients who can complete both stages. Another important issue is the early recurrence rate and subsequent poor survival even after completion of TSH. Thus, the selection of appropriate patients who can really benefit from the TSH strategy is crucial. This review discusses the optimal patient selection for TSH, which should be helpful for the development of treatment strategies for patients with extensive CRLM.