Robust Structure Research Articles

Vapor-Tailored Nanojunctions in Ultraporous ZnO Nanoparticle Networks for Superior UV Photodetection.

High quality nanojunctions are known to effectively improve the conductivity and structural robustness of ultraporous nanoparticle networks, surpassing the performance of natural van der Waals interfaces. Nevertheless, the traditional approach of forming these junctions by thermal annealing is incompatible with thermolabile polymers and slender metal electrodes found in modern wearable technologies. Herein, we present a low temperature, solvent vapor-based method to rapidly elicit high-quality metal-oxide nanojunctions in a fast, effortless, inexpensive, and easily scalable process; capable of generating necked interparticle interfaces in a matter of minutes. When applied to ultraporous-based ZnO Ultraviolet (UV) photodetectors, the vapor-tailoring process produces an incredible 128,000-fold improvement in responsivity (6.6 A.W-1) over untreated structures (51.2µA.W-1), and a 5300-fold improvement in responsivity over thermally annealed structures; all while maintaining exceptionally low dark currents of 140 pA at a low bias voltage of 1V. Most importantly, the exceptional performance enabled by room temperature synthesis suggests high potential adaptability of this process toward wearable UV sensors, shedding lights on the strategy of modifying weakly bonded porous nanostructures for improved physical properties.

Pottery‐Inspired Flexible Fire‐Shielding Ceramifiable Silicone Foams for Exceptional Long‐Term Thermal Protection

AbstractOwing to their preeminent properties, including mechanical flexibility, thermal insulation, and low cost, silicone foams are widely used in industrial fields. However, flame‐induced structural failure greatly restricts their practical applications. It is challenging for flexible silicone foams to realize reliable thermal protection in thermo–mechanical–oxidative environments. Inspired by traditional pottery, a multiscale‐filler synergistic ceramifiable strategy for creating silicone foam nanocomposites with flexibility and long‐term fireproofing is proposed herein. The foam materials not only maintain mechanical flexibility and elasticity (≈2% residual strain after 1000 cycles) at a temperature range of −60–210 °C but also exhibit exceptional long‐term (>30 min) thermal insulation upon exposure to ≈1300 °C oxidative environments because of their ability to form a gradient robust porous ceramic structure. Moreover, the foam material can provide stable thermal protection for electric cables and lithium‐ion battery packs, making it one of the most reliable thermal insulation materials so far. This work broadens the applications of silicone foams in emerging fields where mechanical buffering and fireproofing are required.

Para-phenylenediamine Schiff base: highly fluorescent photostable solid-state organic dye

Schiff bases derived from the condensation of primary amines with aldehydes, such as para-phenylenediamine with salicylaldehyde, exhibit unique optical and structural properties ideal for photonic applications. This study synthesizes such a Schiff base, revealing its properties through detailed HNMR1, FTIR, and XRD characterizations. The compound forms a robust π-conjugated structure, showing a fluorescence emission peak at 560 nm and significant absorbance at 380 nm. A spin-coated laser cavity displayed a critical lasing threshold at 1 MW·cm−2, which could be optimized down to 0.6 kW·cm−2. Moreover, the compounds’ acceptor-donor-acceptor configuration raised outstanding nonlinear optical properties, including a substantial two-photon absorption cross-section of 2×10−11 cm ⋅ W−1·GM, enhancing its utility in high-resolution two-photon imaging and advanced photonic applications. Other nonlinear optical characteristics determined during these studies are the saturable absorption-induced nonlinear absorption coefficient (−2×10−11 cm ⋅ W−1), saturation intensity (2.5×1011 W·cm−2), and Kerr-induced nonlinear refractive index (5×10−16 cm2 ⋅ W−1). The combined linear and nonlinear optical properties, supported by sustained emission and minimal photobleaching under intense re-excitation, establish the para-phenylenediamine Schiff base and derivatives as promising materials for high-brightness, photostable organic light emitters, and solid-state lasers.

Enhancing Portfolio Optimization: A Two-Stage Approach with Deep Learning and Portfolio Optimization

The portfolio selection problem has been a central focus in financial research. A complete portfolio selection process includes two stages: stock pre-selection and portfolio optimization. However, most existing studies focus on portfolio optimization, often overlooking stock pre-selection. To address this problem, this paper presents a novel two-stage approach that integrates deep learning with portfolio optimization. In the first stage, we develop a stock trend prediction model for stock pre-selection called the AGC-CNN model, which leverages a convolutional neural network (CNN), self-attention mechanism, Graph Convolutional Network (GCN), and k-reciprocal nearest neighbors (k-reciprocal NN). Specifically, we utilize a CNN to capture individual stock information and a GCN to capture relationships among stocks. Moreover, we incorporate the self-attention mechanism into the GCN to extract deeper data features and employ k-reciprocal NN to enhance the accuracy and robustness of the graph structure in the GCN. In the second stage, we employ the Global Minimum Variance (GMV) model for portfolio optimization, culminating in the AGC-CNN+GMV two-stage approach. We empirically validate the proposed two-stage approach using real-world data through numerical studies, achieving a roughly 35% increase in Cumulative Returns compared to portfolio optimization models without stock pre-selection, demonstrating its robust performance in the Average Return, Sharp Ratio, Turnover-adjusted Sharp Ratio, and Sortino Ratio.

Psychometric properties of the Persian version of the workplace fun scale among nurses: a cross-sectional study

Previous research has highlighted the importance of workplace fun in enhancing employee satisfaction and performance, particularly in high-stress professions like nursing. However, a notable gap exists in understanding how workplace fun is perceived and measured among nurses in Persian-speaking countries. This study addresses this gap by translating the Workplace Fun Scale and assessing its psychometric properties among nurses. The findings will provide insights into the scale’s applicability in these contexts and pave the way for healthcare organizations to significantly explore ways to enhance nurses’ enjoyment of work in Persian-speaking countries. This survey, which involved 321 nurses from medical education centers in Ardabil, was conducted with a meticulous and rigorous methodology. Standard questionnaires collected the data, including a demographic form and the translated Workplace Fun Scale. The study examined the three aspects of workplace fun: fun activities, coworker socializing, and manager support for fun. Confirmatory factor analysis was used to validate the structure, and reliability was assessed through retest coefficients, Cronbach’s alpha coefficients, and composite reliability coefficients. The data were analyzed using SPSS version 14 and LISREL version 8.8, ensuring the highest research standards. The validity of both form and content was confirmed through translation and reverse translation. The Workplace Fun Scale showed high internal consistency and reliability, with significant Cronbach’s alpha coefficients, composite reliability, and two-week retest coefficients of 0.859, 0.885, and 0.459, respectively (all at the p < 0.01 level). Fit indices, including GFI (0.97), AGFI (0.94), CFI (0.99), NFI (0.98), TLI (0.97), and SRMR (0.04), indicated a good fit of the measurement model, confirming the validity of the scale in assessing workplace fun. The confirmatory factor analysis results indicated that the translated version of the workplace fun scale, adapted from Tews, exhibited a robust factor structure and internal homogeneity within the Iranian sample. Furthermore, the scale demonstrated positive internal validity and reliability in Persian translation. These findings suggest that the scale possesses acceptable psychometric properties, making it a valuable tool for assessing workplace fun among nurses in Persian-speaking countries.

Seed Oil Contents, Fatty Acid Compositions, and Gossypol Concentrations of Some Okra Landraces

ABSTRACTOkra has recently attracted attention owing to its superior tolerance to high temperatures, greater adaptation to poor soil conditions, and having a robust plant structure. The plant contains a high amount of oil and valuable fatty acids; however, the main restriction of using okra seeds as an oil crop results from its gossypol contents. The aim of this study was to determine the oil content of okra landraces and to evaluate its potential as an oil crop. For this aim, seed oil content, fatty acid compositions of cold‐pressed seed oil, and gossypol concentrations of fruit, oil cake, and seed oil were investigated in a core collection of 26 okra landraces, lines, and cultivars. Individual plants were harvested at the full maturity stage, and seeds were harvested and dried under 35°C for 2 days prior to oil extraction. Oil content, fatty acid composition, and gossypol content were analyzed by NMR, GC‐FID, and HPLC, respectively. The calibration coefficients (r2) of all the methods were determined to be &gt; 0.99. The seed oil content of the samples ranged between 12.15% and 18.83%. Linoleic (42.01%), palmitic (31.65%), oleic (18.39%), and stearic acids (3.20%) were found to be the largest fraction of the fatty acids. The data matrix from 19 fatty acids and oil content was subjected to Principle Component Analysis (PCA). As a result, 6 principal components (PCs, eigenvalues &gt; 1) explained 83.84% of total variance in the data set, with PC1 contributing 32.69% of the total. Gossypol contents of the fruit, oil cake, and seed oil fractions ranged between LOQ‐2.12, &lt; LOQ‐7.01, and &lt; LOQ‐62.46 mg/kg, respectively. In conclusion, okra may have the potential to be an alternative oil crop for food/feed purposes due to the presence of reasonable oil content, high‐quality fatty acid variations, and very low amounts of toxic gossypols, warranting further breeding and agronomic studies.

Racism in inpatient settings in Germany: professionals’ perspectives

Abstract Background Experiences of racial discrimination during healthcare encounters have increasingly been recognised as a source of health inequity. Narrative accounts by racialised healthcare users have dominated research in the field but it is equally important to capture the perceptions and practices of professionals to understand how racism operates in healthcare provisioning. This presentation asks: how does racism manifest in the German inpatient healthcare system (hospitals, rehabilitation facilities), and are there areas or phases of healthcare provisioning where racism is observed more frequently? Methods Problem-centred expert interviews (Döringer 2021) with 20 healthcare professionals from medicine, nursing, and therapeutic professions working in hospitals or rehabilitation facilities across three German federal states. Data were analysed using documentary method (Bohnsack 2002). Results Racism occurs widely in German inpatient settings. It manifests both structurally, e.g. in the absence of professional translators for healthcare users with limited German skills, and interpersonally, e.g. in the form of microaggressions and stereotyping but also the witholding of treatment and verbal abuse. Targets of racism are both patients and staff, especially internationally recruited healthcare workers. Respondents thereby identify night shifts, psychiatric settings and the emergency ward as contexts where racism is more likely to occur. The hierarchical nature of and pervasive power asymmetries in hospitals thereby prevent effective interventions against racial discrimination. Conclusions Racism in German healthcare institutions requires multiscalar public health interventions, particularly at the level of the institutions themselves. These include the establishment of a robust and low-threshold complaints structure, spaces for self-reflection for professionals, and mandatory anti-racism training rather than a focus on diversity-sensitive competence. Key messages • In future research approaches, structurally determined reproductions of racism should be investigated using a multi-method approach. • Experiences of powerlessness are reported by both those affected by racism and those professionals who observe racism and should be addressed by the institutions.

Microbial Surface Confined Growth Strategy for the Synthesis of Highly Loaded NiCoP Nanoparticles with Hollow Derived Carbon Shells for Sodium Ion Capture.

NiCoP is considered to be a very promising material for sodium ion (Na+) capturing, however, the volume expansion and poor cyclic stability of NiCoP during the storage limit its application. In response to these limitations, Finite element simulations are used to help in the rational design of the NiCoP structure. A novel microbial surface confined growth strategy is employed to synthesize highly loaded NiCoP nanoparticles (NiCoP NPs) supported on hollow derived carbon shells (NPC), constructing a stable composite structure known as NiCoP@NPC. The highly loaded and uniformly dispersed NiCoP NPs are anchored in-situ and fully exposed, enabling enhanced electron and ion transport efficiency and thereby boosting pseudocapacitance. The NPC from yeast played a crucial role in mitigating the volume expansion of NiCoP NPs, thereby enhancing the structural stability of the electrode. Consequently, NiCoP@NPC demonstrated a high Na+ storage capacity of 59.70 ± 1.51 mg g-1 at 1.6 V and maintained good cycling stability, retaining over 73.3% of its capacity after 80 cycles at 1.6 V. Scanning transmission X-ray microscopy (STXM) analysis confirmed the reversible conversion reaction mechanism and the robust structure of NiCoP@NPC before and after the reaction; Density function theory (DFT) and electrochemical quartz crystal microbalance (EQCM-D) further confirmed that the structural design of NiCoP@NPC promoted electron transport, Na+ adsorption as well as improved cycling stability. This study is intended to provide a new idea for the in-situ confined synthesis of metal phosphides electrodes with stable performance and structure.

Impact Absorption Power of Polyolefin Fused Filament Fabrication 3D-Printed Sports Mouthguards: InVitro Study.

This study aims to evaluate and compare the impact absorption capacities of thermoformed ethylene vinyl acetate (EVA) mouthguards and 3D-printed polyolefin mouthguards used in sports dentistry applications. The objective is to determine whether 3D-printed polyolefin mouthguards offer superior impact toughness compared to traditional EVA mouthguards commonly used in sports settings. Six material samples were assessed: five pressure-formed EVA mouthguards (PolyShok, Buffalo Dental, Erkoflex, Proform, and Drufosoft) and one 3D-printed synthetic polymer (polyolefin). The materials were evaluated using a modified American Society for Testing and Materials (ASTM) D256 Test Method A for Izod pendulum impact resistance of plastics. Polyolefin samples were 3D-printed using fused filament fabrication (FFF) technology. Notably, the FFF process included samples printed with notches placed either parallel or perpendicular to the build direction. This orientation served as a study factor, allowing for comparison of material behavior under different printing conditions. Impact testing was conducted using an Izod impact tester to assess the materials' performance under controlled impact conditions. The study achieved a high power (1.0) in power analysis, indicating strong sensitivity to detect significant differences. Among molded materials, PolyShok showed significantly lower impact toughness compared to others (p = 0.06). The mean impact absorption of EVA materials was 5.4 ± 0.3 kJ/m2, significantly lower than polyolefin materials, which demonstrated 12.9 ± 0.7 kJ/m2 and superior performance (p = 0.0). Horizontal-notched polyolefin samples exhibited higher impact strength compared to vertical-notched samples (p = 0.009). 3D-printed polyolefin mouthguards exhibited significantly higher impact toughness than thermoformed EVA mouthguards. While EVA materials demonstrated structural robustness, their lower impact resistance and observed tearing in other test specimens suggest the need for alternative testing standards to better reflect real-world conditions. 3D-printed mouthguards fabricated with build orientations perpendicular to the direction of impact demonstrate significantly enhanced impact absorption. Further research into manufacturing methods and testing protocols is recommended to optimize mouthguard performance under impact scenarios.

Schizophrenia and magnetic resonance imaging research: A scientometric analysis during 2014 to 2023.

Recently, magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) has emerged as a leading technique for investigating schizophrenia (SZ) pathological mechanisms, prompting an increase in related studies. This study aims to examine the field's research status and trends via bibliometric analysis. The publications on SZ and MRI over the past decade were retrieved from the Web of Science Core Collection (WOSCC) On October 15, 2023. CiteSpace and VOSviewer were used to conduct scientometric and visualized analysis, covering countries, institutions, authors, journals, co-cited literature, and keywords. A total of 4840 publications were retrieved from 2014 to 2023. The United States leads with 1863 articles, followed by China with 1127 articles. King's College London had the highest number of publications, with 332 articles. Schizophrenia Research ranks first in the journal that published the research on schizophrenia and MRI, the most published journal, Neuroimage is the most cited journal. Calhoun is the most prolific author with 145 articles, and Fischl is the most cited author, receiving 1188 citations. The literature co-citation network (2014 to 2023) revealed 16 clusters with robust structure (Q = 0.8719) and high confidence (S = 0.9421) involving MRI studies of SZ, genetic imaging and treatment of schizophrenia. Keywords include MRI, psychosis and functional magnetic resonance imaging (fMRI), MRI and neuroimaging, MRI and neuroimaging and white matter and diffusion tensor imaging. This study offers an overview of the research status and trends of publications on SZ and MRI, aiming to inspire future research directions.

Mitigating the Kinetic Hysteresis of Co-Free Ni-Rich Cathodes via Gradient Penetration of Nonmagnetic Silicon.

Co-free Ni-rich layered oxides are considered a promising cathode material for next-generation Li-ion batteries due to their cost-effectiveness and high capacity. However, they still suffer from the practical challenges of low discharge capacity and poor rate capability due to the hysteresis of Li-ion diffusion kinetics. Herein, based on the regulation of the lattice magnetic frustration, the Li/Ni intermixing defects as the primary origin of kinetic hysteresis are radically addressed via the doping of the nonmagnetic Si element. Meanwhile, by adopting gradient penetration doping, a robust Si-O surface structure with reversible lattice oxygen evolution and low lattice strain is constructed on Co-free Ni-rich cathodes to suppress the formation of surface dense barrier layer. With the remarkably enhanced Li-ion diffusion kinetics in atomic and electrode particle scales, the as-obtained cathodes (LiNixMn1-xSi0.01O2, 0.6≤x≤0.9) achieve superior performance in discharge capacity, rate capability, and durability. This work highlights the coupling effect of magnetic structure and interfacial chemicals on Li-ion transport properties, and the concept will inspire more researchers to conduct an intensive study.

Leveraging Blood Components for 3D Printing Applications Through Programmable Ink Engineering Approaches.

This study proposes a tunable ink engineering methodology to allow 3D printing processability of highly bioactive but otherwise low-viscous and unprintable blood-derived materials. The hypothesis relies on improving the viscoelasticity and shear thinning behavior of platelet lysates (PL) and albumins (BSA) solutions by covalent coupling, enabling simultaneous extrusion and photocrosslinking upon filament deposition. The available amine groups on proteins (PL and BSA) are exploited for coupling with carboxyl groups present in methacrylated proteins (hPLMA and BSAMA), by leveraging carbodiimide chemistry. This reaction enabled the creation of a pre-gel from these extremely low-viscous materials (≈ 1Pa), with precise tuning of the reaction, resulting in inks with a range of controlled viscosities and elasticities. Shape-fidelity analysis is performed on 3D-printed multilayered constructs, demonstrating the ability to reach clinically relevant sizes (>2cm in size). After photocrosslinking, the scaffolds showcased a mechanically robust structure with sustained protein release over time. Bioactivity is evaluated using human adipose-derived stem cells, resulting in increased viability and metabolic activity over time. The herein described research methodology widens the possibilities for the use of low-viscosity materials in 3D printing but also enables the direct application of patient and blood-derived materials in precision medicine.

Raman spectroscopy reveals oxidative stress-induced metabolic vulnerabilities in early-stage AR-negative prostate-cancer versus normal-prostate cell lines

Quantitative Raman spectroscopy provides information-rich imaging of complex tissues. To illustrate its ability to characterise early-stage disease, we compared live P4E6, a low-grade Gleason-3 prostate-cancer cell line, to PNT2-C2, a normal prostate cell-line equivalent, thereby elucidating key molecular and mechanistic differences. Spectral changes from statistically relevant population sampling show P4E6 is defined by reduced DNA/RNA signatures (primarily base-pair modifications), increased protein-related signatures (synthesis), decreased whole-cell measured saturated and unsaturated fatty acids, and increased cholesterol and cholesterol ester (lipid storage). Signatures in the live-cell disease state point to the Warburg effect for aerobic glycolysis as the mechanism for cellular energy generation. A follow-on study involving catastrophic desiccation showed a key survival pathway in the cancer state in the structural robustness of DNA/RNA. Metabolic changes, namely in Warburg-to-oxidative-phosphorylation rerouting and reduced protein synthesis, were also shown. Such modifications limit cancer’s resistance to oxidative damage, and thus its ability to utilise a higher redox homeostasis for metabolic advantage. The results demonstrate the ability of quantitative Raman spectroscopy to uncover, with full molecular-heterogeneity capture, mechanistic vulnerabilities in lowest-grade tumorigenic prostate cancer, thereby revealing underlying targets for disease disruption at early stage.

Precise Single‐Atom Modification of Hybrid Lead Chlorides for Electron Donor‐Acceptor Effect and Enhanced Photocatalytic Aerobic Oxidation

Hybrid lead halides show significant potential in photocatalysis due to their excellent photophysical properties, but the atomically precise modification of their organic component to achieve synergistic interactions with the lead halide units remains a great challenge. Herein, for the first time, we have employed the crystal engineering strategy to construct a class of single‐atom‐substituted hybrid lead halides with electron donor‐acceptor (D‐A) effect. The lead halide frameworks consist of 1D linear [PbCl]+ chains as inorganic building units and benzoxadiazole/benzothiadiazole/ benzoselenadiazole‐funtionalized dicarboxylates as linkers. The covalent bonding between the organic ligands with electron‐withdrawing groups and the electron‐rich lead halide units not only facilitate the charge separation, but also enhance structural robustness that is critical for photocatalysis. The D‐A structured lead halides serve as highly efficient heterogeneous photooxidation catalysts, including aerobic oxidation of C(sp3)‐H bonds, oxidative coupling of primary amines, oxidation of phenylboronic acids and selective oxidation of sulfides that are demonstrated in 30 examples. Importantly, these photooxidation reactions are able to be driven by natural sunlight and ambient air to afford quantitative yields. Moreover, our lead halide photocatalysts are successful to fix into a photocatalytic flow system, which enables the flow‐type synthesis of high value‐added photooxidation products on a gram scale.

Powerful graph neural network for node classification of the IoT network

Internet of Things (IoT) devices are increasingly used in various applications in our daily lives. The network structure for IoT is heterogeneous and can create a complex architecture depending on the application and geographical structure. To efficiently process the information within this diverse and complex relationship, a robust data structure is needed for network operations. Graph neural network (GNN) technology is emerging as a capable tool for predicting complex data structures, such as graphs. Graphs can be employed to mimic the structure of IoT network and process information from IoT nodes using GNN techniques. In this paper, our goal is to explore the effectiveness of GNN in performing the node classification task for a given IoT network. We have generated three different IoT networks with varying network sizes, number of nodes, and feature sizes. We then test 12 different GNN algorithms to evaluate their performance in IoT node classification. Each method is examined in detail to observe its training behavior, testing behavior, and resilience against noise. In addition, time complexity and generalization ability of each model have also been studied. The experimental results show that some methods exhibit high resilience against noisy data for IoT node classification accuracy.

Facile synthesis of monoclinic (NH4)2V4O9 nanosheets for zinc-ion batteries

Aqueous zinc-ion batteries (ZIBs) are increasingly popular due to their low cost and high safety. However, the quest for cathode materials with robust internal structures and efficient ion transport pathways remains critical. In this study, we introduce a simple hydrothermal method to synthesize monoclinic (NH4)2V4O9 nanosheets, serving as a advanced cathode for ZIBs. This material demonstrates outstanding electrochemical properties, with a high specific capacity of 389 mAh g−1 at 0.1 A g−1, and retains 78.9 % capacity after 3000 cycles at 1 A g−1 and 77.3 % after 15,000 cycles at 5 A g−1. Additionally, it achieves an energy density of 325 Wh kg−1 at 101 W kg−1. In-depth electrochemical analysis reveals the structural stability during reversible Zn2+ ion intercalation/de-intercalation, underscoring the potential of (NH4)2V4O9 as a high-performance material for ZIBs.

Investor relations and corporate governance in the global energy sector: A theoretical review of best practices and their application in emerging economies

Investor relations and corporate governance are critical components in ensuring the sustainable development and operational efficiency of companies within the global energy sector. This theoretical review explores the best practices in investor relations and corporate governance, particularly focusing on their application within emerging economies. The global energy sector is highly capital-intensive, requiring robust governance structures to manage risks, ensure transparency, and align the interests of stakeholders. Effective investor relations strategies foster trust, provide timely and accurate information, and enhance shareholder engagement, all of which are essential for securing long-term investments in energy projects. Corporate governance, on the other hand, ensures accountability, compliance with regulatory frameworks, and ethical management practices. The review highlights best practices in corporate governance, including the establishment of independent boards, strong leadership, risk management frameworks, and the importance of environmental, social, and governance (ESG) criteria in decision-making processes. In terms of investor relations, strategies such as proactive communication, regular financial disclosures, and engagement with both institutional and retail investors are identified as key to maintaining investor confidence. In emerging economies, where energy needs are rapidly increasing, the application of these best practices presents both challenges and opportunities. Regulatory frameworks in these regions are often evolving, and companies must navigate complex political and economic environments while adhering to global standards. This review discusses how emerging markets can benefit from adopting globally recognized governance and investor relations practices to attract foreign investment and foster sustainable energy development. The theoretical insights presented offer a comprehensive understanding of the interplay between investor relations and corporate governance in the energy sector. Additionally, this review underscores the importance of adaptability and innovation in applying these best practices to the unique contexts of emerging economies.. Keywords: Investor Relations, Corporate Governance, Global Energy Sector, Emerging Economies, Best Practices, ESG Criteria, Stakeholder Engagement, Transparency, Risk Management, Sustainable Energy Development.

Corporate Governance Reimagined: Integrating Diversity, Accountability and Stakeholder Inclusivity in Ghanaian Boardrooms

This study embarks on a comprehensive exploration of the evolving landscape of corporate governance in Ghana, focusing on the integration of diversity, accountability, and stakeholder inclusivity in boardrooms. The research is grounded in a multifaceted theoretical framework, drawing from Agency, Resource Dependence, and Signaling Theory to dissect the complex dynamics between board composition and firm performance. The study critically examines the impact of board composition, including the balance of inside versus outside directors, board size, role duality, and diversity, on the performance of Ghanaian firms. It highlights the shift from a traditional shareholder-centric model to a more inclusive approach, emphasizing ethical practices and stakeholder engagement. The research identifies unique challenges in the Ghanaian context, such as concentrated ownership patterns, weak legal frameworks, and cultural influences on corporate governance. The findings suggest that a balanced board composition, characterized by independence, expertise, and diversity, significantly enhances both financial and non-financial performance, particularly in SMEs. The study concludes with strategic recommendations for policymakers and firms in Ghana, advocating for robust governance structures that align with global standards while considering local nuances. This research contributes to the discourse on corporate governance in developing economies, offering insights for theoretical advancement and practical implementation.

Pre-inserting Mn2+/Zn2+ into NaV6O15 nanorods as high-stable and long lifespan cathodes for aqueous zinc-ion batteries

Vanadium-based compounds, characterized by diverse crystal structures, exhibit high theoretical capacities, and are regarded as potential cathode materials for aqueous zinc-ion batteries. Despite this, their development has been hindered by the sluggish diffusion of zinc ions and inadequate structural stability. In this study, we fabricated a stable monoclinic NaV6O15 nanorod via a simple hydrothermal synthesis. Mn2+ or Zn2+ ions are introduced into the crystal lattice to augment the interlayer spacing of NaV6O15, thereby enhancing the diffusion kinetics of Zn2+ ions. After pre-intercalating guest ions (Mn2+/Zn2+), the material experiences a morphological evolution from nanorods to nanobelts, which correlates with an expansion of the specific surface area and a proliferation of electrochemically active sites. This morphological alteration is associated with a marked enhancement in reversible capacity, reaching 278.1, 340.4, and 363.9 mAh/g for NVO, MNVO, and ZNVO, respectively, at 0.2 A/g. Furthermore, pre-intercalating guest ions not only expanded the interlayer spacing but also conferred structural robustness, leading to a pronounced enhancement in Zn2+ mobility and cyclability. Remarkably, the ZNVO cathode demonstrated a capacity retention of 118.4 % after 5000 cycles at a high current density of 5 A/g. Additionally, ex-situ XRD and XPS analyses elucidate that the Zn2+ storage in ZNVO is governed by the Zn2+ insertion/de-insertion mechanism. Our research offers a paradigm for the development of cathode materials for aqueous zinc-ion batteries.

Evidence of community structure in phonological networks of multiple languages.

Thousands of phonological word forms known to a speaker can be organised as a lexical network using the tools of network science. In these networks, nodes represent words and edges are placed between phonological neighbours. Previous work has shown that phonological networks of various languages have similar macrolevel network properties. The present study aimed to investigate if phonological networks of different languages also have similar mesolevel properties, specifically, the presence of robust community structure. Prior community detection analyses revealed robust community structure for English. Community detection analyses conducted on French, German, Dutch, and Spanish networks indicate that all networks showed strong evidence of community structure-mesolevel clustering of word forms whereby larger communities tended to contain shorter, frequent words with many phonological neighbours. Words of the same community tended to share similar phonotactic structures. Results suggest that the organisation of phonological word forms in language are governed by similar principles that could have important implications for lexical processing. (PsycInfo Database Record (c) 2024 APA, all rights reserved).