bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Improving Student Pharmacists' Learning Through the Use of Pediatric Simulation
Authors: Eiland Lea S. , Chung Allison M. , Fowlin Julaine M.
Published: November 2021

OBJECTIVE

The purpose of this study was to assess the effect of low-fidelity simulation on students' confidence, knowledge, and skills in pediatric physical assessments, and to compare students' interest ratings of topics and effectiveness of learning activities between students' who experienced simulation and those who did not.

METHODS

Within a pediatric elective, a vital signs and physical assessment activity was re-designed to incorporate a low-fidelity heart and breath sounds simulator. Students rated their confidence in completing 9 different physical assessment skills before and after the activity and assessment. Students' perspectives of the activity were also assessed. Course evaluation surveys were compared with prior course offerings (without simulation) to determine a change in students' interest ratings of the topic and effectiveness of learning activities. The Wilcoxon signed rank test, thematic analysis, and descriptive statistics were used to analyze outcomes.

RESULTS

All 106 second professional year students in the elective completed the pre- and post-simulation surveys and course evaluations for 3 offerings. Students' post-simulation average confidence scores increased statistically on all 9 skills compared with pre-simulation scores. All students agreed or strongly agreed “the lecture and simulation activity done in class helped me overcome challenges I had with learning the skill.” Students (98%) successfully demonstrated competency on the formal assessment. Compared with previous course offerings, students reported higher interest ratings in the topics and instruction effectiveness when simulation was incorporated into the activity.

CONCLUSIONS

Low-fidelity simulation is an effective teaching and learning approach to increase students' confidence, knowledge, and interest in pediatric vital signs and physical assessment.
Antithrombin III Supplementation in a Premature Infant: Is There a Target Antithrombin Level?
Authors: Shukla Ankit , Braunreiter Chi
Published: November 2021

The optimal antithrombin (AT) activity for low-molecular-weight heparin efficacy and the benefits of antithrombin III (ATIII) supplementation in premature infants diagnosed with venous thromboembolism are unknown. Currently, there are no neonatal-specific guidelines directing the appropriate target AT activity during supplementation. This case report describes a critically ill premature infant with a progressive, occlusive inferior vena cava thrombus who received supplemental ATIII during enoxaparin treatment. The patient did not achieve therapeutic anti-Xa levels despite increasing enoxaparin dosing to 3 mg/kg every 12 hours. ATIII supplementation sufficient to attain an AT activity of >40%, in combination with an enoxaparin dosing of >2 mg/kg every 12 hours, was needed to achieve therapeutic anti-Xa levels. Future large studies are needed to determine if there is an optimal target AT activity for critically ill premature infants.
"You have to vape to make it through": E-cigarette Outcome Expectancies among Youth and Parents
Authors: Fairman Robert T. , Weaver Scott R. , Akani Bangaman C. , Dixon Kristin , Popova Lucy
Published: November 2021

Objectives: Outcome expectancies are central to explaining health behavior and have been shown to predict tobacco use. Research on outcome expectancies for e-cigarette use among youth is scarce but increasingly important given the growing rates of use, particularly of high-nicotine
pod devices and the recent outbreak of e-cigarette related lung disease. Methods: In 2019, we conducted 3 focus groups with middle school youth (N=25), 5 with high school youth (N=38), and 4 with parents (N=27). Youth and parents were not related and groups included both users and non-users.
Participants discussed reasons for e-cigarette use and bad and good things that might happen to a person who vapes. Results: Participants described positive and negative psychoactive/sensory, social, and health-related outcome expectancies. Both youth and parents mentioned stress relief
and appearing older as positive outcome expectancies, and e-cigarette flavors, acting rebellious, and structural opportunities as other reasons for initiating e-cigarette use. Social consequences and health outcomes were negative outcome expectancies deterring use. Conclusions: Regulations
and public communication campaigns can counteract the positive outcome expectancies (flavor regulation, providing stress reduction tips) and capitalize on negative ones (communicating negative health outcomes) to decrease youth e-cigarette use.
Lactate is an energy substrate for rodent cortical neurons and enhances their firing activity
Authors: Karagiannis Anastassios , Gallopin Thierry , Lacroix Alexandre , Plaisier Fabrice , Piquet Juliette , Geoffroy Hélène , Hepp Régine , Naudé Jérémie , Le Gac Benjamin , Egger Richard , Lambolez Bertrand , Li Dongdong , Rossier Jean , Staiger Jochen F , Imamura Hiromi , Seino Susumu , Roeper Jochen , Cauli Bruno
Published: November 2021

Glucose is the mandatory fuel for the brain, yet the relative contribution of glucose and lactate for neuronal energy metabolism is unclear. We found that increased lactate, but not glucose concentration, enhances the spiking activity of neurons of the cerebral cortex. Enhanced spiking was dependent on ATP-sensitive potassium (KATP) channels formed with KCNJ11 and ABCC8 subunits, which we show are functionally expressed in most neocortical neuronal types. We also demonstrate the ability of cortical neurons to take-up and metabolize lactate. We further reveal that ATP is produced by cortical neurons largely via oxidative phosphorylation and only modestly by glycolysis. Our data demonstrate that in active neurons, lactate is preferred to glucose as an energy substrate, and that lactate metabolism shapes neuronal activity in the neocortex through KATP channels. Our results highlight the importance of metabolic crosstalk between neurons and astrocytes for brain function.
Knowledge, Attitude and Practices of Clinicians, Nurses and Pharmacists Regarding Antimicrobial Stewardship: A Five Centre Survey from India
Authors: Mane Akshata , Kamat Shweta , Thanusubramanian Harish
Published: November 2021

Introduction: Increasing awareness and practice of Antimicrobial Stewardship (AMS) has gained immense importance in Indian hospitals for preventing the irrational use of antibiotics. India is one of the world’s largest consumers for antibiotics. Assessment of the local Knowledge, Attitude and Practices (KAP) of Antimicrobial Resistance (AMR) and AMS among Healthcare Providers (HCPs) will help in designing effective public health policies and engaging the community in campaigns against increasing microbial resistance. Aim: To understand the status of AMS programs and practices in five private sector multispecialty hospitals situated in the East, West, North and South zones of the country and to assess the KAP of HCPs regarding AMR and AMS. Materials and Methods: The cross-sectional survey was conducted to assess the implementation of AMS in five hospitals among clinicians, nurses and pharmacists across India using a predeveloped AMS checklist between June 2019 and October 2019. The analysis was done between July and August 2020. Responses were collected using a five-point Likert scale, with choices ranging from ‘strongly agree’ to ‘strongly disagree’.Descriptive analysis was done for the KAP survey to determine the percentages of participants under each response category. Results: Total 32 clinicians, 55 nurses and eight pharmacists responded to the KAP survey (100% response rate). The clinicians were aware that AMR is caused by irrational prescribing of antimicrobials (n=31, 96.87%) and improper diagnosis of infective conditions (n=27, 84.37%). However, knowledge of clinicians on infection control practices (n=6, 18.75% disagreed) in controlling AMR and practice of referring local epidemiology before prescribing antimicrobials (n=7, 21.87% did not follow routinely) could be improved. The knowledge and practice of nurses and pharmacists on antibiotic use were spread over a wide range. According to the nurses, AMR was mainly caused by using antimicrobials for non bacterial infections (n=30, 54.54%) and deviations from their standard duration (~63.64%-72.73%). As per pharmacists, the lack of restrictions on antimicrobial usage and widespread use or overuse of antibiotics were major contributors to AMR (n=3, 37.5% strongly agreed). Both nurses and pharmacists could benefit from reinforced training on antibiotic usage. Conclusion: Implementation of AMS was not adequate in private Indian hospitals. Although clinicians have good knowledge on antibiotic use, it was not equally reflected in their practice. The KAP data of nurses and pharmacists suggest that training and education on appropriate antibiotic usage should be emphasised. More efforts are required to improve AMS practices in hospitals.
Implementasi Konsep “Bound to Nature” pada Perancangan Interior Mangrove Edu-Tourism Centre di Surabaya
Authors: Laksono David Ardi , Thamrin Diana , Basuki Lucky
Published: November 2021

Masalah  yang  menjadi  latar  belakang  dari  perancangan  ini  adalah  masyarakat  Surabaya  kurang  mengenal  keberadaan  ekosistem mangrove  dan  pengembangan  potensi  produk  olahannya  oleh  UKM  (Usaha  Kecil  Menengah)  lokal  di  Surabaya.  Disisi  lain  juga karena  kurang  terjangkaunya  dan  tidak  memadainya  wadah  pendukung  kegiatan  tersebut.  Tujuan  dari  Perancangan  ini  adalah menyediakan  wadah  alternatif  untuk  berkumpul  dan  mengenalkan  kepada  generasi  millennial  agar  dapat  memahami  dan bereksperimen dengan potensi mangrove, melalui pendekatan edukatif, rekreatif, interaktif dan konten lokal, serta mensejahterakan masyarakat mangrove. Metode perancangan yang digunakan adalah metode Disney yang terdiri dari 4 tahap, yakni spectator view, dreamers view, realists view, dan critics view. Hasil perancangan adalah sebuah Mangrove Edu-Tourism Centre berkonsep Bound to Nature, dengan fasilitas ruang terbuka telaga, stal makanan, area informasi dan tunggu, galeri produk UKM, studio workshop, studio pembibitan, ruang staf, area santai, kubah konservatorial, dek atraktif, dan rumah teh. Penulis berharap melalui perancangan ini dapat memberi solusi sekaligus sebagai wadah komunitas global, dengan usaha mikro yang berefek makro untuk membantu mengelola dan menyelamatkan lingkungan mangrove di Surabaya.
Determining whether periodic health checkups have any preventive effect on deterioration in health among middle-aged adults: A hazards model analysis in Japan
Authors: Oshio Takashi , Tsutsumi Akizumi , Inoue Akiomi
Published: November 2021

Objectives

We aimed to examine the long-term impact of periodic health checkups (PHCs) on health outcomes among middle-aged adults.

Methods

We used longitudinal data from 29 770 individuals (15 399 men and 14 371 women) aged 50–59 years in the baseline year (2005), obtained from a population-based 14-wave survey. PHC participants were defined as those who underwent PHCs for the first three consecutive waves, and we investigated the onset of inpatient care for five types of non-communicable diseases (diabetes, heart disease, stroke, hypertension, and dyslipidemia) as well as poor self-rated health and problems in the activities of daily living in the subsequent 11 waves. Cox-proportional hazards models were used to estimate the impact of PHCs on health outcomes by employing the propensity score matching (PSM) method.

Results

Participation in PHCs was closely related to a respondent’s socioeconomic status and health behavior. After controlling for these factors by PSM, the hazard models showed that PHCs postponed the onset of inpatient care for hypertension (hazard ratio, 0.56; 95% confidence interval: 0.36–0.85) among men, but PHCs had no impact on any other health outcomes in men or women.

Conclusions

The preventive impact of PHCs on health deterioration is generally limited among middle-aged adults. Future studies should address policy measures to enhance the effectiveness of PHCs.
Interaction between sex and neurofilament light chain on brain structure and clinical severity in Huntington’s disease
Authors: Sampedro Frederic , Martinez‐Horta Saul , Pérez‐Pérez Jesús , Perez‐Gonzalez Rocio , Horta‐Barba Andrea , Campolongo Antonia , Aracil‐Bolaños Ignacio , Gomez‐Anson Beatriz , Kulisevsky Jaume
Published: November 2021

Female Huntington’s disease (HD) patients have consistently shown a faster clinical worsening than male, but the underlying mechanisms responsible for this observation remain unknown. Here, we describe how sex modifies the impact of neurodegeneration on brain atrophy and clinical severity in HD. Cerebrospinal fluid neurofilament light chain (NfL) levels were used as a biological measure of neurodegeneration, and brain atrophy was assessed by structural magnetic resonance imaging. We found that larger NfL values in women reflect higher brain atrophy and clinical severity than in men (p < 0.05 for an interaction model). This differential vulnerability could have important implications in clinical trials.
On the Formation Mechanism of Banded Microstructures in Electron Beam Melted Ti–48Al–2Cr–2Nb and the Design of Heat Treatments as Remedial Action
Authors: Wartbichler Reinhold , Clemens Helmut , Mayer Svea , Ghibaudo Cristian , Rizza Giovanni , Galati Manuela , Iuliano Luca , Biamino Sara , Ugues Daniele
Published: November 2021

The formation mechanism of banded microstructures of an electron beam melted engineering intermetallic Ti–48Al–2Cr–2Nb alloy, the solidification behavior, and the heat treatment response are investigated via a process parameter study. Scanning electron microscopy, hardness testing, X‐ray diffraction, electron probe microanalysis, thermomechanical analysis, electron backscatter diffraction, heat treatments, as well as thermodynamic equilibrium calculation, and numerical simulation were performed. All specimens show near‐γ microstructures with low amounts of α2 and traces of βo. Fabrication with an increased energy input leads to an increased Al loss due to evaporation, a lower α‐transus temperature, and to a higher hardness. Banded microstructures form due to abnormal grain growth toward the bottom of original melt pools, whereas α2 in Al‐depleted zones enables a Zener pinning of the γ‐grain boundaries, leading to fine‐grained areas. Via numerical simulation, it is shown that increasing the energy input leads to larger maximum temperatures and melt pool sizes, longer times in the liquid state, and more remelting events. Solidification happens via the α‐phase and increasing the energy input leads to an alignment of (111)γ in building direction. Furthermore, banded microstructures respond heterogeneously to heat treatments. Heat treatment is introduced based on homogenization via phase transformation to obtain isotropic microstructures.
Growth Mechanism of Ceramic Coating on ZK60 Magnesium Alloy Based on Two‐Step Current‐Decreasing Mode of Micro‐Arc Oxidation
Authors: Wang Ze-Xin , Zhang Jin-Wei , Lv Wei-Gang , Chen Liang-Yu , Qi Fang , Chen Wei-Wei , Lu Sheng
Published: November 2021

The ZK60 deformed magnesium alloy is treated by micro‐arc oxidation (MAO) and processed in the optimized silicate–phosphate electrolyte system, which is controlled under the two‐step current‐decreasing mode. The mechanism of discharge in the MAO process is investigated using the voltage–time curve and morphology of the spark discharge at different durations. The microstructures of the coatings fabricated at different durations are investigated. The rules of the coating ingrowth and/or outgrowth, the formation mechanisms of micropores, and microcracks in the coatings are explored systematically. The corrosion resistance of the coatings is measured by electrochemical methods. Through the exploration of the mechanism, two types of micropores in the coating are summarized: the in situ discharge growth type and the pores‐sealed type, and also three types of microcracks. The results illustrate the changes of the elements on the surface of the coating and Mg, O, and Si are incorporated into the coating formation process. The specimens show the best corrosion resistance after the two‐step current‐decreasing mode treatment.
Complementary Dynamic Chemistries for Multifunctional Polymeric Materials
Authors: Zhang Borui , De Alwis Watuthanthrige Nethmi , Wanasinghe Shiwanka V. , Averick Saadyah , Konkolewicz Dominik
Published: November 2021

Dynamic materials (DMs) or dynamers have potential applications across a broad range of material science challenges. These applications include sustainable materials as a part of the circular plastics economy, advanced materials with tailored high stress properties and biomedical agents. DMs are comprised of polymers that crosslinked through reversible covalent and noncovalent linking groups. This group provides reversible bonds, which impart properties such as (re)healing, adaptability, toughness into a material. The nature of the linker dictates the dynamer's stability and dynamic properties, although for many applications one linker alone cannot give materials with complex multiresponsive functions. The combination of multiple dynamic linkers can introduce complementary functionalities into a single material. This combination of linkers enhances the collective material properties by matching their strengths and offsetting the weaknesses, or by selecting linkers for specific functions, such as one linker for rapid exchange and the other to respond to external stimuli. This contribution highlights the possibilities and unique features of materials containing multiple dynamic linkers, reviewing both fundamental discoveries of materials possessing multiple dynamic bonds and applications facilitated by the presence of multiple linking group chemistry.
Interfacial Charge Transfer between Silver Phosphate and W2N3 Induced by Nitrogen Vacancies Enhances Removal of β‐Lactam Antibiotics
Authors: Lin Yan , Yang Chunping , Niu Qiuya , Luo Shenglian
Published: November 2021

Constructing heterojunctions has been demonstrated as an important approach to improve the catalytic performance of photocatalysts, but how to regulate the transfer and separation of photogenerated carriers at the interface is still a great challenge. Herein, W2N3‐NV, a two‐dimensional transition metal nitride containing nitrogen vacancies, is synthesized by a molten salt‐assisted atmosphere calcination method. A novel composite photocatalyst Ag3PO4@W2N3‐NV with good photocatalytic activity and photostability is prepared for the first time and applied to the efficient removal of β‐lactam antibiotics. The composite catalyst shows much superior photocatalytic degradation performance of penicillin and amoxicillin, and the apparent rate constant of which is 77.7 and 42.9 times than that of pure Ag3PO4, respectively. Experimental results and density functional theory calculations confirm that the presence of nitrogen vacancies can drive the formation of defects and dangling bonds on the W2N3‐NV surface, which make it easy to combine with Ag3PO4 and form new chemical bonds at the interface. The WO chemical bonds formed at the interface provide a fast transfer channel for the interfacial photogenerated charge, resulting in the boosted carriers transfer and separation ability of Ag3PO4@W2N3‐NV composite. This study provides a new strategy for the interface engineering of highly efficient heterogeneous photocatalysts.
Layered Superconductor Cu0.11TiSe2 as a High‐Stable K‐Cathode
Authors: Wu Lichen , Gu Mingyuan , Feng Yanhong , Chen Suhua , Fan Ling , Yu Xinzhi , Guo Kunkun , Zhou Jiang , Lu Bingan
Published: November 2021

The cathode material is one of the main restricting factors for the development of potassium‐ion batteries (PIBs). The poor conductivity, sluggish reaction kinetics, and unstable crystal structure of cathode materials have impeded their electrochemical performance. Here, controlled intercalation of TiSe2 with Cu is used to yield a layered superconductor Cu0.11TiSe2, which exhibits increased electrons and ions transfer rates and improved crystal structure stability. The insertion of Cu not only improves the electronic conductivity and reduces the diffusion barrier but also plays a role in crystal structure support, which further leads to a highly reversible charge and discharge process of Cu0.11TiSe2. The layered superconductor Cu0.11TiSe2 exhibits an excellent cycling performance with a capacity retention of 80% after 300 cycles at a current density of 20 mA g−1 and a superior rate capability with a capacity of 45 mAh g−1 at 1000 mA g−1 (≈8C). Furthermore, a full battery assembled with the Cu0.11TiSe2 cathode and graphite anode exhibits a high reversible capacity of 74 mAh g−1 at a current density of 20 mA g−1. This study provides a new path for developing the high‐performance cathode material of PIBs and other alkali metal‐ion batteries.
Anisotropic Foams via Frontal Polymerization
Authors: Alzate‐Sanchez Diego M. , Cencer Morgan M. , Rogalski Michael , Kersh Mariana E. , Sottos Nancy , Moore Jeffrey S.
Published: November 2021

The properties of foams, an important class of cellular solids, are most sensitive to the volume fraction and openness of its elementary compartments; size, shape, orientation, and the interconnectedness of the cells are other important design attributes. Control of these morphological traits would allow the tailored fabrication of useful materials. While approaches like ice templating have produced foams with elongated cells, there is a need for rapid, versatile, and energy‐efficient methods that also control the local order and macroscopic alignment of cellular elements. Here, a fast and convenient method is described to obtain anisotropic structural foams using frontal polymerization. Foams are fabricated by curing mixtures of dicyclopentadiene and a blowing agent via frontal ring‐opening metathesis polymerization (FROMP). The materials are characterized using microcomputed tomography (micro‐CT) and an image analysis protocol to quantify the morphological characteristics. The cellular structure, porosity, and hardness of the foams change with blowing agent, concentration, and resin viscosity. Moreover, a full factorial combination of variables is used to correlate each parameter with the structure of the obtained foams. The results demonstrate the controlled production of foams with specific morphologies using the simple and efficient method of frontal polymerization.
Strong π–π Stacking Stabilized Nanophotosensitizers: Improving Tumor Retention for Enhanced Therapy for Large Tumors in Mice
Authors: Xi Dongmei , Xu Ning , Xia Xiang , Shi Chao , Li Xiaojing , Wang Dongsheng , Long Saran , Fan Jiangli , Sun Wen , Peng Xiaojun
Published: November 2021

Conventional photosensitizers (PSs) often show poor tumor retention and are rapidly cleared from the bloodstream, which is one of the key hindrances to guarantee precise and efficient photodynamic therapy (PDT) in vivo. In this work, a photosensitizer assembly nanosystem that sharply enhances tumor retention up to ≈10 days is present. The PSs are synthesized by meso‐substituting anthracene onto a BODIPY scaffold (AN‐BDP), which then self‐assembles into stable nanoparticles (AN‐BDP NPs) with amphiphilic block copolymers due to the strong intermolecular π–π interaction of the anthracene. Additionally, the incorporated anthracene excites the PSs, producing singlet oxygen under red‐light irradiation. Although AN‐BDP NPs can completely suppress regular test size tumors (≈100 mm3) by one‐time radiation, only 12% tumor growth inhibition rate is observed in the case of large‐size tumors (≈350 mm3) under the same conditions. Due to the long‐time tumor retention, AN‐BDP NPs allow single‐dose injection and three‐time light treatments, resulting in an inhibition rate over 90%, much more efficient than single‐time radiation of conventional clinically used PSs including chlorin‐e6 (Ce6) and porphyrin with poor tumor retention. The results reveal the importance of long tumor retention time of PSs for efficient PDT, which can accelerate the clinical development of nanophotosensitizers.
Two Birds with One Stone: Interfacial Engineering of Multifunctional Janus Separator for Lithium–Sulfur Batteries
Authors: Li Yiju , Gao Tingting , Ni Dongyuan , Zhou Yin , Yousaf Muhammad , Guo Ziqi , Zhou Jinhui , Zhou Peng , Wang Qian , Guo Shaojun
Published: November 2021

Li‐dendrite growth and unsatisfactory sulfur cathode performance are two core problems that restrict the practical applications of lithium–sulfur batteries (LSBs). Here, an all‐in‐one design concept for a Janus separator, enabled by the interfacial engineering strategy, is proposed to improve the performance of LSBs. At the interface of the anode/separator, the thin functionalized composite layer contains high‐elastic‐modulus and high‐thermal‐conductivity boron nitride nanosheets and oxygen‐group‐grafted cellulose nanofibers (BNNs@CNFs), by which the formation of “hot spots” can be effectively avoid, the Li‐ion flux homogenized, and dendrite growth suppressed. Meanwhile, at the interface between the separator and the cathode, the homogenously exposed single‐atom Ru on the surface of reduced graphene oxide (rGO@Ru SAs) can “trap” polysulfides and reduce the activation energy to boost their conversion kinetics. Consequently, the LSBs show a high capacity of 460 mAh g–1 at 5C and ultrastable cycling performance with an ultralow capacity decay rate of 0.046% per cycle over 800 cycles. To further demonstrate the practical prospect of the Janus separator, a lithium–sulfur pouch cell using the Janus separator delivers a cell‐level energy density of 310.2 Wh kg–1. This study provides a promising strategy to simultaneously tackle the challenges facing the Li anode and the sulfur cathode in LSBs.
Efficient Tandem Quantum‐Dot LEDs Enabled by An Inorganic Semiconductor‐Metal‐Dielectric Interconnecting Layer Stack
Authors: Wu Qianqian , Gong Xiwen , Zhao Dewei , Zhao Yong‐Biao , Cao Fan , Wang Haoran , Wang Sheng , Zhang Jianhua , Quintero‐Bermudez Rafael , Sargent Edward H. , Yang Xuyong
Published: November 2021

Light‐emitting diodes (LEDs) in a tandem configuration offer a strategy to realize high‐performance, multicolor devices. Until now, though, the efficiency of tandem colloidal quantum dot LEDs (QLEDs) has been limited due to unpassivated interfaces and solvent damage originating from the materials processing requirements of interconnecting layers (ICLs). Here an ICL is reported consisting of a semiconductor‐metal‐dielectric stack that provides facile fabrication, materials stability, and good optoelectronic coupling. It is investigated experimentally how the ICL enables charge balance, suppresses current leakage, and prevents solvent damage to the underlying layers. As a result record efficiencies are reported for double‐junction tandem QLEDs, whose emission wavelengths cover from blue to red light; i.e., external quantum efficiencies (EQEs) of 40% (average 37+/−2%) for red, 49% (average 45+/−2%) for yellow, 50% (average 46+/−2%) for green, and 24% (average 21+/−2%) for blue are achieved.
Lamellar Bimetallic Thiolates: Synthesis, Characterization, and Their Utilization for the Preparation of Bimetallic Chalcogenide Nanocrystals through Mechanochemical Grinding
Authors: Bera Abhijit , Pathak Sushil S. , Kotha Vishal , Prasad Bhagavatula L. V.
Published: November 2021

Thiolates of single metal ions are known to exist as lamellar structures in the neat state and some of these metal thiolates can be delaminated into individual molecular sheets simply by adding a nonpolar organic solvent. It is established here that even bimetallic thiolates such as copper‐indium thiolate and silver‐indium thiolate exist as lamellar sheets. Each of these sheets consists of both metal ions arranged in a random fashion. It is also demonstrated that these bimetallic thiolates can be employed as single source precursors to prepare phase pure bimetallic chalcogenide nanocrystals (NCs) through mechanochemical routes by grinding them with an appropriate chalcogenide source. Notably, these bimetallic chalcogenide NCs, though synthesized in the absence of any solvent, get easily dispersed in nonpolar solvents as their surface is protected by the thiolate molecules released during the grinding process. These ternary NCs display a strong and tunable photoluminescence in the visible to near‐infrared region. Based on detailed systematic studies it is concluded that to obtain phase pure bimetallic sulfide/selenide NCs bimetallic thiolates, consisting of both metal ions in each sheet, must be used as single source precursors and physical mixtures of individual thiolates do not afford such phase pure materials.
L‐Cysteine‐Meditated Self‐Assembled PtRu Derived Bimetallic Metal–Carbon Hybrid: An Excellent Peroxidase Mimics for Colorimetric and Fluorometric Detection of Hydrogen Peroxide and Cholesterol
Authors: Gupta Pramod K. , Son Seong Eun , Seong Gi Hun
Published: November 2021

Artificial enzymes have attracted considerable attention because of their significant advantages over natural enzymes. Herein, the authors report a simple hydrothermal strategy for producing a bimetallic metal — N‐, S‐doped carbon (NS‐C@PtRu) hybrid derived from L‐cysteine‐mediated self‐assembly of PtRu. The peroxidase‐like activity and colloidal stability of the NS‐C@PtRu are tuned by varying the amount of L‐cysteine, the source material for the N‐, S‐doped carbon. The NS‐C@PtRu exhibits good dispersibility, synergistic interactions (metal–metal, metal–carbon), non‐metal (N, S) doping, more catalytic active sites, improved noble metallic catalyst performance, and high utilization efficiency. As an excellent peroxidase mimic, NS‐C@PtRu catalyzes the oxidation of 3,3′,5′,5′‐tetramethylbenzidine (TMB), and Amplex Red (AR) substrates, producing colorimetric and fluorometric signals that offer efficient detection of H2O2. Furthermore, colorimetric and fluorometric cholesterol detection is proposed by combining cholesterol oxidase‐catalyzed cholesterol oxidation with NS‐C@PtRu‐catalyzed TMB/AR oxidation. The fluorometric cholesterol sensor exhibited a lower limit of detection of 1.4 µmol L−1 and rapid response, whereas the colorimetric sensor exhibited a wide detection range of 0.1–6 mmol L−1 and colorimetric changes that can be seen with the naked eyes. Both sensing methods demonstrated excellent selectivity and recovery in determining cholesterol in spiked human serum samples.
Nonwetting Nanostructured Hemostatic Material for Bleeding Control with Minimal Adhesion
Authors: Li Yuan , Niu Fei , Zhao Xiaotong , Yap Choon Hwai , Li Zhe
Published: November 2021

Hemostatic materials are widely used for bleeding control. However, existing blood‐absorbing wound dressing materials have two unaddressed challenges, blood loss through the hydrophilic material and strong clot adhesion that prevents gauze removal. Here, a nonwetting nanofiber structured material based on a two‐step spray coating procedure for hemostatic application is developed. Interfacial behaviors at the blood/clot‐material interface are exploited for bleeding control and minimizing wound adhesion. It is shown that this nonwetting material can retain blood within the wound, thus preventing blood loss. The nanofiber structure and kaolin microparticles collectively promote fast clotting to seal the wound and generate point‐to‐point contacts between clot and the nanofiber surface. These point‐to‐point contacts would subsequently be damaged by the interfacial shear induced by clot contraction, generating a peeling force significantly smaller than commercial low‐adherent or fast‐clotting hemostatic products. Its bleeding control and low adhesion properties are verified by in vivo animal experiments. The work therefore provides an efficient hemostatic material with excellent bleeding control and low wound adhesion properties, demonstrating an effective strategy to design advanced hemostatic materials by exploiting the interfacial behaviors.
Ferric Ions as a Catalytic Mediator in Metal‐EGCG Network for Bactericidal Effect and Pathogenic Biofilm Eradication at Physiological pH
Authors: Chen Shuai , Yan Yong , Yu Yue , Wang Zhenfeng , Zhu Xiaojun , Sun Liping , Li Chao , Wang Feng
Published: November 2021

Pathogenic bacteria and biofilm formation have become the urgent threats to global public health. Herein, metal‐epigallocatechin gallate (EGCG) network with improved bactericidal effect and pathogenic biofilm eradication ability via trivalent cationic Fe3+ catalyzed hydrogen peroxide (H2O2) decomposition is developed. EGCG, the predominant catechin from tea, is predicted to be a good chelator for eight metal ions (i.e., Al3+, Cr3+, Cu2+, Co2+, Zn2+, Mn2+, Ni2+, Fe3+). 3,3',5,5'‐tetramethylbenzidine oxidation experiment using UV–vis spectrometer demonstrated that Zn2+, Mn2+, Ni2+ are the potential candidates to accelerate the generation of H2O2 by EGCG. Compared with the other two metal‐EGCG network (Zn2+‐EGCG or Mn2+‐EGCG), only Ni2+‐EGCG network has better bactericidal property and plays a synergistic role in the network system. Furthermore, by introducing Fe3+ to Ni2+‐EGCG network, the complex exhibits the best bactericidal property for gram‐negative bacteria Escherichia coli (E. coli) and Pseudomonas aeruginosa (PAO1), which can be explained by the rapid H2O2 decomposition and associated production of hydroxyl radicals. With SYTO 9/PI staining assay, Fe3+ as a catalytic mediator in Ni2+‐EGCG network shows the most significant bactericidal effect and pathogenic biofilm eradication ability. According to the above analysis, Ni2+‐EGCG network presents a promising nanoplatform as an alternative to antibiotics for eradication of pathogenic bacteria and biofilms.
Metal‐Organic‐Framework‐Based Single‐Atomic Catalysts for Energy Conversion and Storage: Principles, Advances, and Theoretical Understandings
Authors: Yang Xue , Yan Liting , Kong Xiangjun , Liu Shujiang , Zhao Xuebo
Published: November 2021

In recent years, the development of alternative energy‐saving, efficient, and clean catalysts for various electrochemical reactions has attracted increasing research attention. Among the various types of catalysts, single‐atom catalysts (SACs) have unique properties. However, individual atoms are prone to agglomeration due to their high surface energy, which poses a major challenge to the development of SACs. Metal‐organic frameworks (MOFs) have the advantages of high porosity and specific surface area, and MOF materials can be ideal carriers for single atoms, which can be anchored from a monoatomic dispersion of metal atoms by simple pyrolysis. Moreover, single atoms derived from MOF materials have high structural order, allowing them to be modeled using theoretical computational models to enable a deeper understanding of the mechanisms of SACs. SAC synthesis methods and applications in various fields are reviewed. Finally, the catalytic processes of SACs in the context of theoretical calculations are reviewed.
Temporal Analysis of Photo‐Thermally Induced Reconfigurability in a 1D Gold Grating Filled with a Phase Change Material
Authors: Zamani Naser , Hatef Ali , Nadgaran Hamid
Published: November 2021

In this study, the finite‐element method is used to numerically calculate a photo‐thermally induced reconfigurability in a 1D gold grating structure filled with the phase change material Ge2Sb2Se4Te1 (GSST). GSST features a reversible and stable phase change between amorphous and crystalline phases around a critical temperature of 410 K with broadband low optical loss. In this study, the required heating for the transition between phases is provided by a nanosecond Gaussian pulse laser through a photo‐thermal absorption process. A comprehensive heat transfer analysis is performed to investigate the thermal characterizations of the proposed structure. The results show that in the amorphous state, the structure has a near unity absorption band in the infrared region. As the temperature increases during the pulse, the GSST undergoes the amorphous to crystalline phase change. In the intermediate states (partial crystallization) of the GSST two resonance peaks are excited and the absorption finally reaches its minimum value of 0.2 in the GSST crystalline phase. The findings of this study not only provide the fundamental concepts for the suggested tunable structure, but also have potential applications in a variety of nanophotonic devices including thermal emission controllers, sensors, and optical detection devices.
Recent Advances in Plant Nanoscience
Authors: Zhang Qi , Ying Yibin , Ping Jianfeng
Published: November 2021

Plants have complex internal signaling pathways to quickly adjust to environmental changes and harvest energy from the environment. Facing the growing population, there is an urgent need for plant transformation and precise monitoring of plant growth to improve crop yields. Nanotechnology, an interdisciplinary research field, has recently been boosting plant yields and meeting global energy needs. In this context, a new field, “plant nanoscience,” which describes the interaction between plants and nanotechnology, emerges as the times require. Nanosensors, nanofertilizers, nanopesticides, and nano‐plant genetic engineering are of great help in increasing crop yields. Nanogenerators are helping to develop the potential of plants in the field of energy harvesting. Furthermore, the uptake and internalization of nanomaterials in plants and the possible effects are also worthy of attention. In this review, a forward‐looking perspective on the plant nanoscience is presented and feasible solutions for future food shortages and energy crises are provided.
Improved Performance of All‐Solid‐State Lithium Metal Batteries via Physical and Chemical Interfacial Control
Authors: Kim Jong Heon , Go Kwangmo , Lee Kyung Jin , Kim Hyun‐Suk
Published: November 2021

Lithium metal batteries (LMBs) show several limitations, such as high flammability and Li dendrite growth. All‐solid‐state LMBs (ASSLMBs) are promising alternatives to conventional liquid electrolyte (LE)‐based LMBs. However, it is challenging to prepare a solid electrolyte with both high ionic conductivity and low electrode–electrolyte interfacial resistance. In this study, to overcome these problems, a solid composite electrolyte (SCE) consisting of Li6.25La3Zr2Al0.25O12 and polyvinylidene fluoride‐co‐hexafluoropropylene is used, which has attracted considerable attention in recent years as a solid‐state electrolyte. To operate LMBs without an LE, optimization of the electrode–solid‐electrolyte interface is crucial. To achieve this, physical and chemical treatments are performed, i.e., direct growth of each layer by drop casting and thermal evaporation, and plasma treatment before the Li evaporation process, respectively. The optimized ASSLMB (amorphous V2O5−x (1 µm)/SCE (30 µm)/Li film (10 µm)) has a high discharge capacity of 136.13 mAh g−1 (at 50 °C and 5 C), which is 90% of that of an LMB with an LE. It also shows good cycling performance (>99%) over 1000 cycles. Thus, the proposed design minimizes the electrode–solid‐electrolyte interfacial resistance, and is expected to be suitable for integration with existing commercial processes.
Negative Differential Friction Predicted in 2D Ferroelectric In2Se3 Commensurate Contacts
Authors: Sun Jingge , Zhang Lili , Pang Rui , Zhao Xing‐Ju , Cheng Jiangtao , Zhang Yimin , Xue Xinlian , Ren Xiaoyan , Zhu Wenguang , Li Shunfang , Zhang Zhenyu
Published: November 2021

At the macroscopic scale, the friction force (f) is found to increase with the normal load (N), according to the classic law of Da Vinci–Amontons, namely, f = µN, with a positive definite friction coefficient (μ). Here, first‐principles calculations are employed to predict that, the static force f, measured by the corrugation in the sliding potential energy barrier, is lowered upon increasing the normal load applied on one layer of the recently discovered ferroelectric In2Se3 over another commensurate layer of In2Se3. That is, a negative differential friction coefficient μ can be realized, which thus simultaneously breaking the classic Da Vinci–Amontons law. Such a striking and counterintuitive observation can be rationalized by the delicate interplay of the interfacial van der Waals repulsive interactions and the electrostatic energy reduction due to the enhancement of the intralayer SeIn ionic bonding via charge redistribution under load. The present findings are expected to play an instrumental role in design of high‐performance solid lubricants and mechanical‐electronic nanodevices.
Reveal the Humidity Effect on the Phase Pure CsPbBr3 Single Crystals Formation at Room Temperature and Its Application for Ultrahigh Sensitive X‐Ray Detector
Authors: Di Jiayu , Li Haojin , Su Jie , Yuan Haidong , Lin Zhenhua , Zhao Kui , Chang Jingjing , Hao Yue
Published: November 2021

Generally, growing phase pure CsPbBr3 single crystals is challenging, and CsPb2Br5 or Cs4PbBr6 by‐products are usually formed due to the different solubilities of CsBr and PbBr2 in the single solvent. Herein, the growth of high‐quality phase pure CsPbBr3 perovskite single crystals at room temperature by a humidity controlled solvent evaporation method is reported first. Meanwhile, the room temperature phase transition process from three dimensional (3D) cubic CsPbBr3 to two dimensional (2D) layered tetragonal CsPb2Br5 and the detailed mechanism induced by humidity are revealed. Moreover, compared with the organic–inorganic perovskite, the prepared CsPbBr3 single crystals are much more stable under high humidity, which satisfies the long‐term working conditions of X‐ray detectors. The X‐ray detectors based on CsPbBr3 single crystals show a high sensitivity and a low detection limit of 1.89 μGyair s–1, all of which meet the needs of medical diagnosis.
Forage conservation in sub‐Saharan Africa: Review of experiences, challenges, and opportunities
Authors: Balehegn Mulubrhan , Ayantunde Augustine , Amole Tunde , Njarui Donald , Nkosi Bhutikini D. , Müller Francuois L. , Meeske Robin , Tjelele Tlou J. , Malebana Ingrid M. , Madibela Othusitse R. , Boitumelo Wame S. , Lukuyu Ben , Weseh Addah , Minani Elias , Adesogan Adegbola T.
Published: November 2021

Forage conservation is an important potential solution to seasonal variation in feed quality and quantity and herder‐farmer conflicts in sub‐Saharan Africa (SSA). Considerable variations exist in the type of forages conserved and the preservation methods across SSA. Hay from cultivated forages is commonly made with mechanical mowers and balers by large‐scale commercial farms. In contrast, smallholder farmers, who dominate farming on the continent, make hay from natural pastures and straw from crop residues or stockpiled forage. Mechanized harvesting and storing of silage are also practiced by commercial farmers in various countries including South Africa, Nigeria, and Kenya. Smallholder farmers rarely make silage, despite repeated recommendations about its potential to bridge the dry season feed gap. This is due to the limited resources, knowledge, and skills. Hay and silage produced by smallholders is typically poor in quality due to use of lower quality forages, improper storage methods, and lack of an economic incentive because feed prices do not reflect quality in most regions. This paper discusses the status of forage conservation across SSA and recommends strategic interventions and technologies to improve the quantity, quality, safety, pricing, and utilization of preserved forages in SSA. Key deductions include the need to raise awareness about their role in bridging the feed gap, to build capacity and invest in appropriate technology, to optimize their production and use, to develop mechanisms to relate prices to quality, and to incentivize women and youth and the private sector to engage further in making and selling preserved forages.
The role of ontogeny in wood diversity and evolution
Authors: Onyenedum Joyce G. , Pace Marcelo R.
Published: November 2021

Evolutionary developmental biology (evo‐devo) explores the link between developmental patterning and phenotypic change through evolutionary time. In this review, we highlight the scientific advancements in understanding xylem evolution afforded by the evo‐devo approach, opportunities for further engagement, and future research directions for the field. We review evidence that (1) heterochrony—the change in rate and timing of developmental events, (2) homeosis—the ontogenetic replacement of features, (3) heterometry—the change in quantity of a feature, (4) exaptation—the co‐opting and repurposing of an ancestral feature, (5) the interplay between developmental and capacity constraints, and (6) novelty—the emergence of a novel feature, have all contributed to generating the diversity of woods. We present opportunities for future research engagement, which combine wood ontogeny within the context of robust phylogenetic hypotheses, and molecular biology.
Do chimpanzees enjoy a virtual forest? A pilot investigation of the use of interactive art as a form of environmental enrichment for zoo‐housed chimpanzees
Authors: Yamanashi Yumi , Hitoosa Kazuki , Yoshida Nobuaki , Kano Fumihiro , Ikkatai Yuko , Sakamoto Hidefusa
Published: November 2021

Environmental enrichment is essential for the well‐being of zoo animals. Recent advances in sensor and video technologies may contribute to improvements in enrichment in terms of their flexibilities and time constraints. The purpose of this study was to investigate whether interactive movie art can be used as a form of environmental enrichment. We implemented interactive movies designed by a professional artist, a visual art aiming to reflect naturalistic forest habitat, in an indoor chimpanzee enclosure at Kyoto City Zoo in Japan. Motion‐tracking sensors embedded in buoys were installed at several locations around the indoor enclosure; the chimpanzees could change the movie contents by physically interacting with these objects. We recorded behaviors by observing entire troop of chimpanzees (six) between March 16 and 20, 2020 (control condition), then recorded behaviors when the interactive movie was presented (experimental condition) between March 21 and 29, 2020. Behaviors were recorded via direct observations and video recordings to examine any changes after the installation of interactive art. The chimpanzees spent more time in the indoor enclosures during the experimental condition than during the control condition. Activity budgets did not change substantially during the study period. There was no evidence of habituation to the movie during the study period. Three chimpanzees, including two young chimpanzees, interacted with the movie more frequently than the others; these young chimpanzees occasionally showed playful expressions when interacting with the movie and exhibited different reactivities to the movie scenes. These results demonstrate, first, that the interactive art did not negatively affect chimpanzee behavior, and second, that some of the chimpanzees indeed showed positive responses to the art. This study, therefore, introduces a novel possibility for environmental enrichment in zoos, involving a collaboration between science and art.