bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Factor Analysis on the Incidence of Musculoskeletal Disorders at the University of Dschang
Authors: Tsatedem Faustin Atemkeng , Ghassi Hyacinte Trésor , Maurice Douryang , Buh Franklin Chu , Hubert Donfack Jean , . Fondop , Alain Djam C. , Leroy Guifo , Choukem Siméon Pierre
Published: March 2023

Introduction: Work related musculoskeletal disorders (WRMSDs) are currently one of the leading causes of disability worldwide. However, information on their prevalence and associated factors remains insufficient in Cameroon.

Objective: Determine the prevalence and associated factors of WRMSDs among the staff of the University of Dschang (UDs).

Methods: We conducted a descriptive cross-sectional study from 05 February to 18 March 2020 during which a modified Nordic Musculoskeletal Questionnaire (NMQ) was administered face-to-face with participants. A convenient type non-probability sampling was used for the selection of participants. The data collected were analyzed with EPI info 7.2.2.6. A bi-variate analysis was conducted to determine factors associated with WRMSDs.

Results: We enrolled 425 participants. The 12-month prevalence of WRMSDs was 93.88%. Almost half of the participants (49.18%) were prevented from their normal activities due to WRMSDs in the past 12 months. The most affected body region was the lower back with a prevalence of 71. 53%. The occurrence of WRMSDs at the UDs was significantly associated with: stress (P<0.01; OR=5.96); intense physical exertion (P<0.01; OR=3.45) and repetitive movements (P<0.01; OR=2.98).

Conclusion: UDs staff is a high-risk population for WRMSDs. It is imperative to protect this human capital by preventing and treating WRMSDs.
Future Trails for Integer Programming and Relations to Artificial Intelligence
Authors: Romaniuk Pavlo
Published: March 2023

Aims: A review of methods and approaches for solving linear integer problems is presented in this work. These problems are classified as NP-hard optimization algorithms in artificial intelligence.

Study Design: we have used the Google scholar to collect the data resources from past 5 years to analysis the techniques and methods used in different algorithms in artificial intelligence.

Methodology: Exact optimum solution for this class of challenges also need use of substantial computer resources. The current direction in which several researcher focuses their efforts to effectively address numerous difficult practical issues is the creation of efficient hybrid techniques that combine in an appropriate way the finest elements of multiple methods (precise or estimated). The approximation algorithms' core heuristic techniques might be classified as constructive algorithms and local-improvement algorithms.

Results: We examined three artificial intelligence algorithms utilizing the linear integer programming approach. Algorithm based on population It has also been demonstrated that a population of a critical size is necessary for a population-based optimization method to be effective. The genetic algorithm is shown next. The goal value associated with this solution may be utilized to effectively reduce the search tree in bound and branch type integer programming methods. Finally, we analyze the particle swarm optimization (PSO) approach, which demonstrates that In most cases, PSO outperforms the Branch and Bound method in solving such issues quickly. 

Conclusion: In actuality, integer optimization issues describe a wide spectrum of real-world difficulties. Their population and size are constantly growing. Although while accurate methods for integer issues have substantially improved in recent years, their long runtimes and memory needs make them unsuitable for actual medium and large-scale applications.
Demographic and Public Health Characteristics of COVID-19 Mortality Cases in Rivers State, Nigeria –A Retrospective Cohort Study
Authors: Owhonda Golden , Patrick Foster , Eze-Emiri Chidinma , Igwe Ezinne , Arugu Godswill , Des-Wosu Ihuoma , Oris-Onyiri Victor , Ohaka Justice , Nwadiuto Ifeoma
Published: March 2023

Introduction: COVID-19 has accounted for approximately six million deaths globally. Several risk factors have been identified. However, the population profile varies in different population groups. The study's aim is to describe the population profile of COVID-19 mortality in Rivers State, Nigeria using captured population-based health records.
Methods: Using electronic State Health Records, secondary data analysis was conducted on recorded COVID-19 mortality. Data were obtained from the Public Health Emergency Operations Centre (PHEOC) at the State Ministry of Health, Rivers State. Data were accessed from the PHEOC database, and it included COVID-19 related mortality. Data were collected on demographics, pre-existing comorbidity, symptoms, facility managed, patient status, treatment outcome, and dates of related events. Cohort characteristics were described using means and proportions.
Results: There were 191 COVID-19 deaths identified. The mean age was 57.08 years, of which 144 were male (75.4%). The 51–65-year age group had the highest mortality count (38.9%). Over 50% of the patients were hypertensive, and diabetes was the second most common comrbidity (28.8%). Running nose, cough, fever and breathing difficulties were the most reported COVID-19 symptoms.
Conclusion: This study found that COVID-19 was responsible for a greater mortality increase in men and that the prevalence of hypertension and diabetes was higher in these individuals. Additionally, age and the presence of comorbidities may be associated with COVID-19 mortality. Future research in this area could further explain these findings.
Effect of Different Organic Sources of Nutrients on Quality and Economics of Ashwagandha [Withania somnifera (L.) Dunal]
Authors: Patel Payal K. , Jat R. K. , Shaikh Salma , Kumar Mukesh
Published: March 2023

The present investigation entitled Effect of different organic sources of nutrients on quality and economics of ashwagandha [Withania somnifera (L.) Dunal] was carried out during Kharif 2021-22 at College Farm, College of Horticulture, Sardarkrushinagar Dantiwada Agricultural University, Jagudan, Dist. Mehsana, Gujarat. Experiment was laid out in randomized block design with three replications and twenty treatments viz., T1: 100% RDN through FYM; T2: 100% RDN through Vermicompost; T3: 100% RDN through Neem cake; T4: 100% RDN through Poultry manure; T5: 80% RDN through FYM; T6: 80% RDN through Vermicompost; T7: 80% RDN through Neem cake; T8: 80% RDN through Poultry manure; T9: 60% RDN through FYM; T10: 60% RDN through Vermicompost; T11: 60% RDN through Neem cake; T12: 60% RDN through Poultry manure; T13: 80% RDN through FYM + Azotobacter + KSM + PSB; T14: 80% RDN through Vermicompost + Azotobacter + KSM + PSB; T15: 80% RDN through Neem cake+ Azotobacter +  KSM + PSB; T16: 80% RDN through Poultry manure + Azotobacter + KSM + PSB; T17: 60% RDN through FYM + Azotobacter +  KSM + PSB; T18: 60% RDN through Vermicompost + Azotobacter + KSM + PSB; T19: 60% RDN through Neem cake + Azotobacter +  KSM + PSB; T20: 60% RDN through Poultry manure + Azotobacter +  KSM + PSB.
Maximum chlorophyll a, b and total at 90 DAS (at full bloom stage) (1.92, 0.75 and 2.11 mg/g, respectively) and withanolides content (0.32%) at harvest were recorded with treatment T16. The maximum net income (₹ 1,38,707/ha) and benefit cost ratio (3.52) were also obtained in same treatment. Therefore, it can be concluded that the application of 80% RDN through poultry manure + Azotobacter + KSM + PSB (T16) was found beneficial for obtaining higher yield of better quality and economic returns in ashwagandha.
A Finite-element Method of Solution for Optimization of Frame of Tractor Operated Single Row Maize Cobs Picker
Authors: Meena Balveer Singh , Shrivastava Atul Kumar , Bhelave Kunal
Published: March 2023

Finite element analysis (FEA) is a computational technique that divides complex structures into small elements and solves them numerically using various partial differential equations. In agriculture, engineers can use numerical simulation based on the FEA technique to study the behaviour of various input products in order to optimise the design of any machine without developing a prototype. The present study focused to design and simulates the frame of tractor operated single row maize cobs picker by employing the FEA technique. A 3D-CAD model of the frame of a tractor-operated single row maize cobs picker was created using the Solid Works software, and a static structural test was performed using the FEA technique in the ANSYS version 15.0 workbench software. A special fixture has been developed to calculate the force required to scrape the pulpy material of the leaves in the Universal Testing Machine. According to the simulation results, maximum deformation was observed as 0.051mm while maximum shear stress and Von Mises equivalent stress were found to be 0.246 MPaPa and 1. 47 MPa, respectively at 250 N scraping forces. Additionally, it was noted that the stress values fall within the material's yield strength.  The FEA approach was found to be a scientific and highly effective method for designing and simulating the frame of a tractor-operated single row maize cobs picker.
Assessment of Factors Influencing Ease of Access on Intentional Organophosphates Self-poisoning among Persons Aged 15-30 Years in Kericho County, Kenya
Authors: Sigey Langat K. , Maathai Ronald , Tenambergen Wanja M.
Published: March 2023

Aims: The aim of this study was to assess factors influencing ease of access on intentional organophosphate self-poisoning among persons aged 15-30 years in Kericho County, Kenya.

Study Design:  The study adopted prospective cross-sectional study design and purposive sampling technique.

Place and Duration of Study: The study was conducted in 3 level 4 health facilities (Kericho County Referral Hospital, Kapkatet Sub-County Hospital, Londiani Sub- County Hospital and Sigowet Sub- County Hospital) in Kericho County, Kenya; which were systematically sampled base on the highest monthly workload one year prior to the study period. Study was conducted between December 2021 and March 2022. 

Methodology: 100 participants of age between 15 year and 30 years old were included in the study (88 males and 12 females). It was a study of all cases of intentional organophosphate self- poisoning, relied majorly on the diagnosis made by clinicians and doctors at emergency departments. Participants were sampled based on the presenting symptoms and history from the respondents. All respondents brought to hospital presenting to emergency department with a history of intentional organophosphate self-poisoning were recruited for the study depending on their eligibility where only respondents who were admitted and recovered after treatment were enrolled after signing or assenting to the consent voluntarily.

Results: A sampled of 100 participants were eligible and managed to have 100% response rate. The study found out that there was a statistical relationship between the parameters since the chi square value were 0.001 which was less than the standard p value which is 0.05 at 95% confidence interval. Bivariate analysis showed a strong positive correlation was found between self-poisoning and easy access to organophosphate (p<0.05, r=0.631). With regard to easy access to organophosphate, the majority indicated yes with 71(71%) responses while those who indicated no were 29 (29%) respondents out of 100 respondents.

Conclusion: It was concluded that ease of access of organophosphate poisons predisposed the high-risk group to find easiest way of committing suicide when they encountered challenges in their daily lives, therefore, laxity on sales, storage and distribution of pesticides give those at risk a chance to fulfill their suicidal ideation.
Skewed Sex Ratio Induced Imperilment of Himalayan Golden Mahseer Tor putitora: A Bottleneck for Captive Propagation
Authors: Singh Atul K.
Published: March 2023

Getting sufficient number of female Tor putitora in wild or in captive conditions is a bottleneck for its sustainable management. In this study, presence of 84.62% male and 15.38% female in the riverine environment was observed while 85.25% male and 14.75% female were found in the lacustrine environment. There was 78.12% male and 21.88% female population in the hatchery produced siblings. Further, T. putitora fry (30 dpf) when treated with 17β estradiol (150 mg/kg feed) for 30 days resulted into production of 69.5% female while rearing it at 23 ±1 °C without any other treatment brought about 41.5% females. The skewed sex-ratio and low female populations of T. putitora has been understood to be an important factor for the imperilment of Himalayan golden mahseer and its propagation in captivity.
Identification of Robust Garch Models with Symmetric and Asymmetric Process with the use of Beta Volatility Coefficient and Model Accuracy Measure
Authors: Oyinebifun Biu, Emmanuel , Cynthia Orumie Ukamaka , Kennedy Ockiya, Atto
Published: March 2023

The goal of this study was to identify a reliable GARCH model for modeling and forecasting each economic variable in Nigeria, including the price of crude oil, the consumer price index, the exchange rate, and the inflation rate. Monthly secondary data and simulated data sets were the data sets that were used. Between January 2004 and December 2020, the secondary data are covered. Beta Volatility Coefficient (BVC) model was proposed for detecting volatility in research data. Using a proposed method called Beta Volatility Coefficient (BVC) and Model Accuracy Measure (MAM) for the different sample sizes: 50, 100, 150, and 200, robust models for each variable were found. Leverage impact was there, according to the Asymmetric models' results. All the variables have a statistically significant value for the value. Inflation rate series is 11% more volatile than the Crude Oil Price and Exchange rate series, and when the sample size is large, the Consumer Price Index is 55% more volatile than the Crude Oil Price and Exchange rate, according to the results of the BVC of the Symmetric and Asymmetric models at the various sample sizes (200). The asymmetric "E-GARCH (1, 1) Model," the symmetric "GARCH-M (1, 1) Model," the symmetric "GARCH (1, 1) Model," and the symmetric "E-GARCH (1, 1) Model" are the identified robust models for the prediction of the Crude Oil Price series, the Inflation Rate series, the Exchange Rate series, and the Consumer Price Index series, respectively. In general, the Asymmetric GARCH model outperformed the Symmetric GARCH model for Exchange rate and Consumer Price Index, which is an improvement over earlier research. The Symmetric GARCH model outperformed the Asymmetric GARCH model for Crude Oil Price and Inflation Rate. For each variable, the found reliable models were utilized to create predictions between January 2022 and December 2024. The expected ranges for the price of crude oil are $31.82 ±1.08, the inflation rate is N14.65 ±0.03, the exchange rate is N/$756.76 ±53.84, and the consumer price index is N2.26 ±0.11.
Evaluation of the Effect of Charcoal and Seeding Depth on the Agronomic Performance of Zucchini (Curcubita pepo) in Korhogo
Authors: Métangbo Diomandé , Marie-Paule Hien , Gautier Kpan Oulai Jean , Amidou Ouattara , Antoine Koffi , Hamed Kouamé Koffi , Dognimeton Soro , Jean Biémi
Published: March 2023

In order to improve zucchini production, the combined effect of charcoal amendment and seeding depth was tested at the botanical garden of the Peleforo Gon Coulibaly University in Korhogo. To this end, six (6 kg) of activated charcoal were buried in the elementary plots one month before sowing in order to assess its effect on soil fertility. The experimental design was that of completely randomized two-factor blocks which are charcoal amendment and depth. Sowing was carried out one month after the application of charcoal due to three seeds per hill at different depths. Namely 0 inch, 1.5 inch and 3 inch. These same depths were repeated on control plots in order to compare their effect on the agronomic performance of zucchini. The results obtained show that after a campaign of use of biochar, the chemical parameters of the soil (pH, CEC, K+, exchangeable Ca2+ and exchangeable Mg2+) experienced significant increases. The porosity has also been reduced. Zucchini fruit yields increased by 100-250% with charcoal compared to the control. Therefore, the use of charcoal can be popularized as a sustainable alternative to conventional fertilization to improve the yield of zucchini on sandy loam soils. Zucchini fruit yields increased by 100-250% with charcoal compared to the control. Therefore, the use of charcoal can be popularized as a sustainable alternative to conventional fertilization to improve the yield of zucchini on sandy loam soils. Zucchini fruit yields increased by 100-250% with charcoal compared to the control. Therefore, the use of charcoal can be popularized as a sustainable alternative to conventional fertilization to improve the yield of zucchini on sandy loam soils.
A General Report on Water Management of Desert Ecosystems: Bikaner District
Authors: Mohammad Sohel , Ranga Shashi Kalla
Published: March 2023

In the arid eco-systems, water constitutes the most important resource that limits plants growth and yield. There is broadly, three way demands on available fresh water for human uses are for agriculture, animal husbandry, fisheries etc. to provide food, to meet the civic needs of people in rural and urban areas, and water for industrial enterprises.

Water being a decisive component for quality of life and development activities, its supply, demand, quality and distribution for social and economic consumption patterns are important issues for developing a strategy of water management. Water is an essential commodity without which development of culture and economy is neither possible nor meaningful. Therefore, this paper "A General Report on Water Management of Desert Ecosystems: Bikaner District" is very significant in the present growing water crisis of the arid and semi-arid regions of India.
Association of Rates of Ganglion Cell and Inner Plexiform Thinning With Development of Glaucoma in Eyes With Suspected Glaucoma
Authors: Mohammadzadeh Vahid , Moghimi Sasan , Nishida Takashi , Walker Evan , Kamalipour Alireza , Micheletti Eleonora , Mahmoudinezhad Golnoush , Wu Jo-Hsuan , Liebmann Jeffrey M. , Girkin Christopher A. , Fazio Massimo , Zangwill Linda M. , Weinreb Robert N.
Published: March 2023

Importance

In eyes with suspected glaucoma, it is clinically relevant to find diagnostic tests for the risk of development of perimetric glaucoma.

Objective

To investigate the association between rates of ganglion cell/inner plexiform layer (GCIPL) and circumpapillary retinal nerve fiber layer (cpRNFL) thinning and the development of perimetric glaucoma in eyes with suspected glaucoma.

Design, Setting, and Participants

This observational cohort study used data collected in December 2021 from a tertiary center study and a multicenter study. Participants with suspected glaucoma were followed up for 3.1 years. The study was designed in December 2021 and finalized in August 2022.

Exposures

Development of perimetric glaucoma was defined as having 3 consecutive results showing abnormal visual fields. Using linear mixed-effect models, rates of GCIPL were compared between eyes with suspected glaucoma that did and did not develop perimetric glaucoma. A joint longitudinal multivariable survival model was used to investigate the performance of rates of GCIPL and cpRNFL thinning in predicting the risk of developing perimetric glaucoma.

Main Outcomes and Measures

Rates of GCIPL thinning and hazard ratio (HR) of developing perimetric glaucoma.

Results

Among a total of 462 participants, the mean (SD) age was 63.3 (11.1) years, and 275 patients (60%) were female. Of 658 eyes, 153 eyes (23%) developed perimetric glaucoma. The mean rates of GCIPL thinning were faster in eyes that developed perimetric glaucoma (−1.28 vs −0.66 μm/y for minimum GCIPL thinning; difference, −0.62; 95% CI, −1.07 to −0.16; P = .02). Based on the joint longitudinal survival model, every 1-μm/y faster rate of minimum GCIPL and rate of global cpRNFL thinning were associated with a 2.4 and 1.9 higher risk of developing perimetric glaucoma, respectively (HR, 2.4; 95% CI, 1.8 to 3.2, and HR, 1.99; 95% CI, 1.76 to 2.22, respectively; P < .001). Among the predictive factors, African American race (HR, 1.56; 95% CI, 1.05 to 2.34; P = .02), male sex (HR, 1.47; 95% CI, 1.02 to 2.15; P = .03), 1-dB higher baseline visual field pattern standard deviation (HR, 1.73; 95% CI, 1.56 to 1.91; P < .001), and 1-mm Hg higher mean intraocular pressure during follow-up (HR, 1.11; 95% CI, 1.05 to 1.17; P < .001) were associated with higher risk of developing perimetric glaucoma.

Conclusions and Relevance

This study found that faster rates of GCIPL and cpRNFL thinning were associated with higher risks of developing perimetric glaucoma. Rates of cpRNFL thinning and specifically GCIPL thinning may be useful measures for monitoring eyes with suspected glaucoma.
Acute-Onset Orbital Inflammation in a Patient With Multiple Myeloma
Authors: Villatoro George , Topilow Nicole , Liu Catherine Y.
Published: March 2023

A 72-year-old man had right-eye conjunctival injection, chemosis, eyelid edema, and pain with eye movements. Examination showed visual acuity of 20/50, reduced ocular motility in all gazes, proptosis, and chemosis. Treatment with vancomycin and ceftriaxone and ampicillin-sulbactam was followed by symptom worsening. What would you do next?
How do natural changes in flow magnitude affect fish abundance and biomass in temperate regions? A systematic review
Authors: Rytwinski T. , Lin H.‐Y. , Harper M. , Smokorowski K. E. , Smith A. , Reid J. L. , Taylor J. J. , Birnie‐Gauvin K. , Bradford M. J. , Crossman J. A. , Kavanagh R. , Lapointe N. W. R. , Turgeon K. , Cooke S. J.
Published: March 2023

We conducted a systematic review on the impacts of natural causes of variation or changes in flow magnitude (resulting from climatic variability and broad‐scale drivers such as climate‐induced change) on fish abundance and biomass in temperate regions.

Following our systematic review protocol (Birnie‐Gauvin et al., 2021), we examined commercially published and grey literature originally identified during a recent systematic map process (Rytwinski et al., 2020) and a systematic search update. Articles were screened using an a priori eligibility criteria, with consistency checks performed at the title and abstract, and full text screening stages. All eligible articles were assessed for study validity. A narrative synthesis included all available evidence (300 studies from 219 articles), and meta‐analyses (1863 datasets from 193 studies) were conducted where appropriate.

Most studies were conducted in the United States (65%) on genera in the Salmonidae and Leuciscidae families (29% and 28%, respectively), and mainly investigated variation in flow magnitude, followed by droughts and floods.

We found that fish abundance and biomass responses to changes in natural flow magnitude were mainly negative, but analyses do not support clear generalizable signals across all contexts (e.g. types of changes in flow magnitude, taxa, locations). When exploring reasons for heterogeneity in effect sizes, we found a detectable effect of intervention type on average fish abundance within the first year of the natural change in flow magnitude, with floods and droughts associated with overall negative responses. However, these patterns were more variable when considering between‐year variation or specific taxonomic responses.

Our results suggest that while immediate responses were more apparent and relatively consistent within specific types of natural events, fish populations may recover after such events (i.e. ≥2 years post‐natural event); however, most studies were short in duration (<2 years) and longer‐term effects were more variable and may be context dependent.

To improve our understanding of species‐specific and population‐level effects, as well as time‐lags in fish responses to natural changes in flow regimes, standardized, long‐term continuous monitoring both before and after a change in flow magnitude are needed to address knowledge gaps. Studies that focus on systems outside North America are recommended.
Highly Oxidation‐Resistant and Self‐Healable MXene‐Based Hydrogels for Wearable Strain Sensor
Authors: Chae Ari , Murali G. , Lee Seul‐Yi , Gwak Jeonghwan , Kim Seon Joon , Jeong Yong Jin , Kang Hansol , Park Seongmin , Lee Albert S. , Koh Dong‐Yeun , In Insik , Park Soo‐Jin
Published: March 2023

Very recently, MXene‐based wearable hydrogels have emerged as promising candidates for epidermal sensors due to their tissue‐like softness and unique electrical and mechanical properties. However, it remains a challenge to achieve MXene‐based hydrogels with reliable sensing performance and prolonged service life, because MXene inevitably oxidizes in water‐containing system of the hydrogels. Herein, catechol‐functionalized poly(vinyl alcohol) (PVA‐CA)‐based hydrogels is proposed to inhibit the oxidation of MXene, leading to rapid self‐healing and superior strain sensing behaviors. Sufficient interaction of hydrophobic catechol groups with the MXene surface reduces the oxidation‐accessible sites in the MXene for reaction with water and eventually suppresses the oxidation of MXene in the hydrogel. Furthermore, the PVA‐CA‐MXene hydrogel is demonstrated for use as a strain sensor for real‐time motion monitoring, such as detecting subtle human motions and handwriting. The signals of PVA‐CA‐MXene hydrogel sensor can be accurately classified using deep learning models.
BPA‐Containing Polydopamine Nanoparticles for Boron Neutron Capture Therapy in a U87 Glioma Orthotopic Model
Authors: Dai Liqun , Liu Jie , Zhao Xiaosheng , Li Yuhao , Zhou Siming , Yuan Liping , Shu Diyun , Pan Lili , Liu Yuan‐hao , Qian Zhiyong
Published: March 2023

Boron neutron capture therapy (BNCT) is a promising therapy for refractory cancer based on the cytotoxic reaction of 10B (n, α) 7Li. Although two BNCT agents are clinically available, they are quickly metabolized and show modest enrichment in tumor sites, partially limiting BNCT widespread application. Consequently, novel agents that perform active targeting and show good biocompatibility have to be developed. Herein, boronophenylalanine‐containing polydopamine (B‐PDA) nanoparticles are easily fabricated by encapsulating boronophenylalanine (BPA) in polydopamine via nitrogen‐boronate coordination. In this study, B‐PDA achieves increased tumor accumulation and prolonged retention effects in the tumor site and superior antitumor activity post neutron irradiation in the orthotopic xenograft glioma model. In brief, this study offers a novel strategy for BPA delivery and may broaden the perspective on nanomedicine design for BNCT.
Orbital Symmetry Engineering in Fused Polycyclic Heteroaromatics toward Extremely Narrowband Green Emissions with an FWHM of 13 nm
Authors: Zeng Xuan , Wang Lu , Dai Hengyi , Huang Tianyu , Du Mingxu , Wang Dong , Zhang Dongdong , Duan Lian
Published: March 2023

Multiresonance (MR) molecules generally face spectral broadening issues with redshifted emissions. Thus, green emitters with full widths at half maximum (FWHMs) of <20 nm are rarely reported, despite being highly desired. Herein, by properly fusing indolo(3,2,1‐jk)carbazole (ICZ) and naphthalene moieties, green MR emitters are reported, which have FWHMs of merely 13 nm (0.064 eV) and 14 nm (0.069 eV) in dichloromethane, accompanied by high photoluminescence quantum yields of >95%, which represent not only the smallest FWHMs among all green MR emitters but also the first green emitters based on ICZ MR derivatives. Theoretical studies reveal that the orbital interactions between the antisymmetric sites of the segments play an important role in extending the conjugation length in the fusion architectures while simultaneously maintaining a small FWHM. The corresponding organic light‐emitting diodes exhibit green emission peaks at 508–509 nm and the first green electroluminescence FWHM of <20 nm ever reported. Benefiting from the preferential horizontal dipole orientation, a high maximum external quantum efficiency of up to 30.9% is obtained, which remains at 28.9% and 23.2% under luminances of 1000 and 10 000 cd m−2, respectively, outperforming most reported green devices based on narrowband emitters.
Modulating Surface Chemistry of Al Powders for Elastomeric Composites with Applications in Electronic Cooling
Authors: Ma Qiangqiang , Zhang Chenxu , Ren Linlin , Zeng Xiaoliang , Xu Jian‐Bin , Sun Rong , Yao Yimin
Published: March 2023

Elastomeric composites are an important class of thermal interface materials as they are shape‐adaptive, which can fit uneven interfaces and achieve ideal interfacial heat transfer in electronic cooling. There is often a trade‐off between mechanical and thermal performances in highly filled composites. Here, the surface chemistry of Al powders via introducing dodecyltrimethoxysilane (DTS) upon different grafting densities is precisely controlled. The results show that the DTS grafting density of 0.24 molecule nm−2 endows the composites with optimized mechanical properties. The tensile stress, elongation at break, and Young's modulus are enhanced by 180%, 56%, and 94.4% after DTS grafting, respectively. Meanwhile, the composite possesses a high fracture energy of 356.2 J m−2 with an enhanced strain energy density of 37.6 kPa. The DTS grafting on Al also contributes to higher thermal conductivity (4.4 W mK−1) and lower contact thermal resistance (0.52 °C cm2 W−1) of the composites and significantly improves the stability of the composites upon high‐temperature storage. Guidance is provided here on methods and data references for optimizing the performance of elastomeric composites, which helps to expand their practical application in electronic cooling.
A Modified Weber Number Capturing the Bouncing–Wetting Transition of Droplet Impact on Rough Surfaces
Authors: Bao Yanyao , Wang Zhongzheng , Shi Zhang , Gan Yixiang
Published: March 2023

In this work, the effects of surface properties on bouncing–wetting transition of water droplet impacting rough surfaces in the Weber number (We) range from 18 to 221 are experimentally investigated. The correlation between impact outcomes and We is examined with an empirical function, and an impact outcome transition from bouncing to no bouncing is identified with the increase of We. The results suggest that a higher surface area ratio promotes the bouncing to no bouncing transition on sample surfaces used in this study. To quantify the effects of surface wetting area on the transitions of droplet impact regimes, a modified Weber number, We*, is proposed by taking the actual surface area into account. Results show that the regime transitions of droplet impact on samples of different surface area ratios can be unified by the We*. This study reveals the significance of actual surface area and the resultant adhesion force on the droplet impact dynamics on random rough surfaces.
Transformation from Helmholtz to Membrane Resonance by Electro‐Adhesive Zip of a Double‐Layer Micro‐Slit Acoustic Absorber
Authors: Wu Chih Chun , Loke Siu‐Chung , Lu Zhenbo , Shrestha Milan , Khoo Boo Cheong , Lau Gih‐Keong
Published: March 2023

Road noise varies with the vehicles’ load and speed, ranging from low to medium frequencies. The existing absorbers, including acoustic metamaterials, cannot fully mitigate the variable noise due to limited bandwidth. To target the variable noise but not occupy much space, this paper presents a tunable acoustic absorber that can transform from Helmholtz resonance to membrane resonance. This tunable absorber consist of double micro‐slit layers, namely an electro‐adhesive membrane and a flexible plate spaced closely in front of a shallow cavity. The boundary‐layer thick gap between the two forms a network of lateral orifices to enhance the acoustic damping at medium frequencies. When the gap closes under electrostatic attraction force, the membrane and plate zipped together and resonated like a drum at a much lower frequency. This transformation can shift the resonant frequency down by 1.6 octaves from 898 hetz (Hz) to 281 Hz, thanks to the structural resonance of the zipped parts. Interestingly, the peak absorption coefficient at the lowest tuned 281 Hz was as high as 0.93. Such distributed tunability based on a fault‐tolerant electro‐adhesive membrane will also be applicable to other acoustic meta‐materials that embody the components of micro‐perforated or micro‐slit panels.
A Series of Singlet‐Triplet InVerted TADF Fluorescent Probes with High Stability, Low Molecular Weight, and Synthesis Accessibility
Authors: Su Rongchuan , Huang Zhenmei
Published: March 2023

Thermally activated delayed fluorescence (TADF)‐based fluorescent biological probes embedded with near infrared (NIR) emission have some unique properties, such as minimal photodamage, low light scattering, and deep tissue penetration. Typical TADF materials are based on electron donors and acceptors, all of them have broad emission and high molecular weight, which is not ideal for biological applications. The cycl[3,3,3]azine is a multiple resonance effect (MRE)‐like TADF fluorescent compound, with narrow NIR emission, inverted singlet‐triplet gaps, and low molecular weight, which is an ideal platform for biological applications. However, the low stability of cycl[3,3,3]azine and its anti‐Kasha's rule nature limit its biological applications. In this work, the authors have rationally investigated the decomposition process of cycl[3,3,3]azine, and a series of NIR and MRE‐like molecules are designed. These molecules would be stable in the biological environment and NIR fluorescence can also be emitted from the first excited state, the synthesis route has also been proposed. In a word, this work provides a series of biological probes with inverted singlet‐triplet gaps, good stability, and low molecular weight for further study.
Enhancement of Piezoelectricity by Novel Poling Method of the Rare‐Earth Modified BiFeO3–BaTiO3 Lead‐Free Ceramics
Authors: Habib Muhammad , Zhou Xuefan , Tang Lin , Xue Guoliang , Rahman Attaur , Akram Fazli , Zhang Dou
Published: March 2023

In piezoceramics, the Curie temperature (TC) and piezoelectric coefficient (d33) are often inversely proportional, so it is very difficult to optimize high piezoelectricity and TC simultaneously. In addition, the high and temperature‐insensitive piezoelectric strain coefficient (d33*) with small hysteresis is also a longstanding obstacle in the development of lead‐free ceramics. In this work, a facile approach of donor doping strategy is adopted to replace Ba2+ with Yb3+, Y3+, Sm3+, and Nd3+ as a result, a high TC of 450 °C and outstanding d33 of 422–436 pC N−1 is achieved by a novel magnetic poling method. Thermally‐stable and outstanding piezoelectric strain performance (d33* ≈ 520–550 pm V−1 and ΔST ≈ 10%) with small strain hysteresis (H < 20%) results are highly encourageable in lead‐free ceramics. The main factors contributing to high piezoelectricity are the morphotropic phase boundary, suppression of defect charges by donor doping, thermal quenching, mesoscale nanodomain size, and novel poling method. The excellent piezoelectric performance and high TC of this work are superior to those of state‐of‐the‐art piezoceramics. The synergistic approaches of compositional design strategy and novel poling process in this work are highly beneficial for temperature‐insensitive piezoelectric sensor and actuator applications.
Unexpected Piezoresistive Effect, Room‐Temperature Ferromagnetism, and Thermal Stability of 2D β‐CuI Crystals in Reduced Graphene Oxide Membrane
Authors: Peng Bingquan , Zhang Quan , Zhang Yueyu , Zhao Yimin , Hou Shengyue , Yang Yizhou , Dai Fangfang , Yi Ruobing , Chen Ruoyang , Wang Jun , Zhang Lei , Chen Liang , Zhang Shengli , Fang Haiping
Published: March 2023

2D materials are promising nanomaterials for future applications due to their predominant quantum effects and unique properties in optics, electrics, magnetics, and mechanics. However, explorations in unique properties and potential applications of novel 2D materials have been hampered by synthesis and their stability under ambient conditions. Recently, in the graphene, 2D β‐CuI is observed experimentally under ambient conditions. Here, it is shown that this 2D β‐CuI@graphene possesses unexpected piezoresistive effect and room‐temperature ferromagnetism. Moreover, this 2D β‐CuI crystal is likely to be stable in a wide range of temperature, that is, below 900 K. Theoretical studies reveal that the unexpected piezoresistive effect is mainly attributable to the convergence of the electrons on Cu and I atoms to the Fermi level with increasing strain. There is a magnetic moment that is ≈0.97 μB on the edge of β‐CuI nanocrystal created by an iodine vacancy, which is considered the origin of such strong room‐temperature ferromagnetism. Clearly, the 2D β‐CuI@graphene provides a promising nanomaterial in the nano‐sensors with low power consumption pressure and magnetic nano‐devices with a size down to atomic scale. The discovery in the present work will evoke various new 2D nanomaterials with novel properties in nanotechnology, biotechnology, sensor materials, and technologies.
S‐Scheme Co9S8@Cd0.8Zn0.2S‐DETA Hierarchical Nanocages Bearing Organic CO2 Activators for Photocatalytic Syngas Production
Authors: Su Bo , Zheng Mei , Lin Wei , Lu Xue Feng , Luan Deyan , Wang Sibo , Lou Xiong Wen (David)
Published: March 2023

Delicate modulations of CO2 activation and charge carrier separation/migration are challenging, yet imperative to augment CO2 photoreduction efficiency. Herein, by supporting diethylenetriamine (DETA)‐functionalized Cd0.8Zn0.2S nanowires on the exterior surface of hollow Co9S8 polyhedrons, hierarchical Co9S8@Cd0.8Zn0.2S‐DETA nanocages are fabricated as an S‐scheme photocatalyst for reducing CO2 and protons to produce syngas (CO and H2). The amine groups strengthen adsorption and activation of CO2, while the “nanowire‐on‐nanocage” hierarchical hollow heterostructure with an S‐scheme interface boosts separation and transfer of photoinduced charges. Employing Co(bpy)32+ as a cocatalyst, the optimal photocatalyst effectively produces CO and H2 in rates of 70.6 and 18.6 µmol h−1 (i.e., 4673 and 1240 µmol g−1 h−1), respectively, affording an apparent quantum efficiency of 9.45% at 420 nm, which is the highest value under comparable conditions. Ultraviolet photoelectron spectroscopy, Kelvin probe, and electron spin resonance confirm the S‐schematic charge‐transfer process in the photocatalyst. The key COOH* species responsible for CO2‐to‐CO reduction is detected by in‐situ diffuse reflectance infrared Fourier transform spectroscopy and endorsed by density functional theory calculations, and thus a possible CO2 reduction mechanism is proposed.
Alternative Energy Carriers: Unique Interfaces for Electrochemical Hydrogenic Transformations
Authors: Carroll Gerard M. , Gebbie Matthew A. , Stahl Shannon S. , Johnson Mathew R. , Luca Oana R. , Petersen Haley A. , Bomble Yannick J. , Neale Nathan R. , Cortright Randy D.
Published: March 2023

The shift toward renewable energy generation sources, characterized by their non‐carbon emitting but variable nature, has spurred significant innovation in energy storage technologies. Advancements in foundational understanding from investments in basic science and clever engineering solutions, coupled with increasing industrial adoption, have resulted in a notable reduction in the cost of storing electricity from variable energy generation sources. These developments have paved the way for the exploration of new and innovative forms of energy storage that deviate from traditional technologies. In this perspective, it is posited that the progress made in energy storage research over recent years has opened the door to the development of energy carriers for technologies that are yet to be realized. To illustrate this concept, examples of alternative energy carriers are provided within the context of unique electrochemical interfaces for electrochemical hydrogenic transformations. The unique properties of these interfaces and electrochemical systems can be leveraged in ways not yet imagined, creating new possibilities for energy storage. A perspective on the progress and challenges for each interface as well as a general outlook for the advancement of energy carrier systems are provided.
A Degradable and Biocompatible Supercapacitor Implant Based on Functional Sericin Hydrogel Electrode
Authors: Lv Qiying , Li Xiaoye , Tian Xin , Fu Da‐an , Liu Huan , Liu Jia , Song Yu , Cai Bo , Wang Jian , Su Qiangfei , Chen Wei , Zou Meizhen , Xiao Fei , Wang Shuai , Wang Zheng , Wang Lin
Published: March 2023

Implantable power sources face great challenges in balancing multiple factors including high performance, biocompatibility, mechanical properties for soft tissue fit, and biodegradability. Toward this goal, a simple and feasible method is proposed to prepare implantable a hydrogel‐based supercapacitor (SC). Specially, a multinetwork conductive electrode is in situ formed by aminated‐reduced‐graphene‐oxide‐and‐methacrylic‐anhydride‐comodified sericin (SrMA/A‐rGO) sequentially cross‐linking with four‐arm polyethylene glycol succinimide carbonate and polyethylene glycol acrylate. The conductive multinetwork endows the SrMA/A‐rGO‐based SC implant an equivalent series resistance of 21 Ω cm−2, a volumetric energy density of 26.0 µW cm−2, and a high specific capacitance retention (over 76.4%) after long‐term charging/discharging. Two SCs connected in tandem are able to light up a light‐emitting diode for both in vitro and in vivo studies. Moreover, they can work as a direct output power source to electrically stimulate a stopped heart to start beating again. Additionally, the SC exhibits superior biocompatibility and biodegradability in vivo, and holds the value of specific capacitance above 30% 2 weeks after implantation. Thus, this work demonstrates the SrMA/A‐rGO‐based SC's potential to serve as a power storage unit for medical implants (such as a temporary pacemaker).
11.4% Efficiency Kesterite Solar Cells on Transparent Electrode
Authors: Zhou Yage , Xiang Chunxu , Dai Qi , Xiang Sitong , Li Ran , Gong Yuancai , Zhu Qiang , Yan Weibo , Huang Wei , Xin Hao
Published: March 2023

Thin film solar cells on semitransparent substrates are attracting much attention due to new application scenarios including building‐integrated photovoltaics (BIPV). Environmentally‐benign element constituted and highly stable kesterite Cu2ZnSn(S,Se)4 (CZTSSe) thin film solar cells are ideal candidates for such applications. However, the efficiency of kesterite solar cells on semitransparent substrates is far behind that on opaque Mo‐based substrates. Here, fabrication of CZTSSe solar cells on fluorine‐doped tin oxide (FTO) substrates from molecular solution and how step‐by‐step absorber engineering improves device performance is reported. A power conversion efficiency of 7.02% is obtained when the absorber is fabricated on bare FTO, which is improved to 9.56% after adding a MoO3 interfacial layer. Investigations show the enhancement originates from the transformation of MoO3 to MoSe2 during film selenization which initiates crystallization at the back contact and at the same time prevents oversize grains at the absorber surface. Na‐doping and Ag alloying further facilitate grain growth and mitigate band tailing, resulting in a certified effective area efficiency of 11.43% with all device parameters comparable to that on an Mo‐substrate. This is the first time highly efficient kesterite solar cells are demonstrated on transparent electrodes, which opens up new opportunities for these earth‐abundant elements composed of thin film photovoltaics.
Comparing Methods of Characterizing Energetic Disorder in Organic Solar Cells
Authors: Hartnagel Paula , Ravishankar Sandheep , Klingebiel Benjamin , Thimm Oliver , Kirchartz Thomas
Published: March 2023

The energetic disorder has been known for decades to limit the performance of structurally disordered semiconductors such as amorphous silicon and organic semiconductors. However, in the past years, high‐performance organic solar cells have emerged showing a continuously reduced amount of energetic disorder. While searching for future high‐efficiency material systems, it is therefore important to correctly characterize this energetic disorder. While there are several techniques in the literature, the most common approaches to probe the density of defect states are using optical excitation as in external quantum efficiency measurements, or sequential filling of the tail states by applying an external voltage as in admittance spectroscopy. A metanalysis of available literature, as well as the experiments using four characterization techniques on two material systems, reveal that electrical, voltage‐dependent measurements frequently yield higher values of energetic disorder than optical measurements. With drift‐diffusion simulations, it is demonstrated that the approaches probe different energy ranges of the subband‐gap density of states. The limitations of the techniques are further explored and it is found that extraction of information from a capacitance‐voltage curve can be inhibited by internal series resistance. Thereby, the discrepancies between measurement techniques with sensitivity to different energy ranges and electronic parameters are explained.
Science‐guided data analytics for selecting ionic liquid solvents for aromatic extraction
Authors: McNeeley Adam , Tsai Chang‐Che , Lin Shiang‐Tai , Liu Y. A.
Published: March 2023

Ionic liquids (ILs) are promising solvents for the aromatic extraction process. An attractive characteristic is the existence of hundreds of ILs that exhibit different properties. To identify key properties of IL solvents for an energy‐optimum aromatic extraction, we use process simulation to generate the process datasets for multivariate data analytics with partial least squares, and use science‐guided fundamentals to develop an IL heat load variable (HLV). We consider 16 well‐studied ILs and correlate process steam duty and process variables affecting equipment size to the HLV for ethylene cracker feeds of low aromatic content. For such feeds in an IL aromatic extraction process, 11 of 16 ILs show energy advantage compared with sulfolane solvent with the lowest energy IL process requiring 57% of total energy required for an equivalent sulfolane process. Our results facilitate the IL solvent selection for pilot tests and subsequent commercialization of an IL aromatic extraction process.