bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Effective C4 Separation by Zeolite Metal–Organic Framework Composite Membranes
Authors: Ao De , Yang Zibo , Chen Aibing , Sun Yuxiu , Ye Mao , Tian Lei , Cen Xixi , Xie Zixi , Du Juan , Qiao Zhihua , Cheetham Anthony K. , Hou Jingwei , Zhong Chongli
Published: March 2024

Inorganic zeolites have excellent molecular sieving properties, but they are difficult to process into macroscopic structures. In this work, we use metal–organic framework (MOF) glass as substrates to engineer the interface with inorganic zeolites, and then assemble the discrete crystalline zeolite powders into monolithic structures. The zeolites are well dispersed and stabilized within the MOF glass matrix, and the monolith has satisfactory mechanical stabilities for membrane applications. We demonstrate the effective separation performance of the membrane for 1,3‐butadiene (C4H6) from other C4 hydrocarbons, which is a crucial and challenging separation in the chemical industry. The membrane achieves a high permeance of C4H6 (693.00±21.83 GPU) and a high selectivity over n‐butene, n‐butane, isobutene, and isobutane (9.72, 9.94, 10.31, and 11.94, respectively). This strategy opens up new possibilities for developing advanced membrane materials for difficult hydrocarbon separations.
Dienes as Versatile Substrates for Transition Metal‐Catalyzed Reactions
Authors: Canfield Amanda M. , Rodina Dasha , Paradine Shauna M.
Published: March 2024

Dienes have been of great interest to synthetic chemists as valuable substrates due to their abundance and ease of synthesis. Their unique stereoelectronic properties enable broad reactivity with a wide range of transition metals to construct molecular complexity facilitating synthesis of biologically active compounds. In addition, structural diene variation can result in substrate‐controlled reactions, providing valuable mechanistic insights into reactivity and selectivity patterns. The last decade has seen a wealth of new methodologies involving diene substrates through the power of transition metal catalysis. This review summarizes recent advances and remaining opportunities for transition metal‐catalyzed transformations involving dienes.
Overcoming Thermal Quenching in X‐ray Scintillators through Multi‐Excited State Switching
Authors: Wang Min , Zhang Zhongbo , Lyu Jing , Qiu Jian , Gu Chang , Zhao He , Wang Tao , Ren Yiwen , Yang Shuo‐Wang , Qin Xu Guo , Liu Xiaogang
Published: March 2024

X‐ray scintillators have gained significant attention in medical diagnostics and industrial applications. Despite their widespread utility, scintillator development faces a significant hurdle when exposed to elevated temperatures, as it usually results in reduced scintillation efficiency and diminished luminescence output. Here we report a molecular design strategy based on a hybrid perovskite (TpyBiCl5) that overcomes thermal quenching through multi‐excited state switching. The structure of perovskite provides a platform to modulate the luminescence centers. The rigid framework constructed by this perovskite structure stabilized its triplet states, resulting in TpyBiCl5 exhibiting an approximately 12 times higher (45 % vs. 3.8 %) photoluminescence quantum yield of room temperature phosphorescence than that of its organic ligand (Tpy). Most importantly, the interactions between the components of this perovskite enable the mixing of different excited states, which has been revealed by experimental and theoretical investigations. The TpyBiCl5 scintillator exhibits a detection limit of 38.92 nGy s−1 at 213 K and a detection limit of 196.31 nGy s−1 at 353 K through scintillation mode switching between thermally activated delayed fluorescence and phosphorescence. This work opens up the possibility of solving the thermal quenching in X‐ray scintillators by tuning different excited states.
Preparation of hollow carbon nanospheres from oxidation of spent tyre oil‐derived carbon black in air
Authors: Okoye Chiemeka Onyeka , Zhang Zhezi , Zhang Dongke
Published: March 2024

Hollow carbon nanospheres (HCNS) were prepared from carbon black (CB) derived from spent tyre pyrolysis oil. The pristine CB produced by partial oxidation of the pyrolysis oil in a drop tube furnace was subsequently oxidised in air in a fixed bed reactor to yield HCNS. The effect of oxidation temperature (300 to 700°C) and time (1 to 8 h) on the burn‐off (Bt) of the sample over the duration (t) of oxidation and average reaction rate (Rt) was assessed. The BET surface area and pore volume and the nanostructure of the HCNS samples obtained were characterised using N2 adsorption–desorption and high‐resolution transmission electron microscope (HRTEM) techniques, respectively. Higher temperature and longer oxidation time led to higher Bt. As Bt increased, the BET surface area and pore volume initially increased linearly due to the removal of the amorphous core and then decreased because of the collapse of the shell of the carbon nanostructure. At Bt of ~56%, the maximum BET surface area and pore volume of the HCNS were 383.2 m2 g−1 and 0.39 cm3 g−1, respectively, compared to ~19.5 m2 g−1 and 0.033 cm3 g−1 of the pristine CB. The HRTEM images indicate that the change in BET surface area corresponds to the formation of the HCNS, as the core of the CB particle was preferentially consumed to create a hollow structure. The formation of HCNS follows an internal oxidation model, which is characterised by rapid core consumption and relatively slow shell consumption.
Thermoelectric composite structure with desirable mechanical properties for high‐performance multi‐functional applications
Authors: Iraji Sahar , Valipouri Afsaneh , Hosseini Ravandi Seyed Abdolkarim , Alsikh Abdulkarim
Published: March 2024

Thermoelectric (TE) structures based on energy harvesting technology have played a vital role in wide‐reaching applications. In this study, a composite structure consisting of a glass fabric covered with a nanocomposite membrane (polyacrylonitrile [PAN]/carbon nanotube [CNT]/copper oxide nanoparticle [CuO]) was prepared to provide thermoelectric conversion. The performance of the TE composite structure was evaluated by analyzing the mechanical properties, thermoelectric properties, and the ability of the structure to power small electronic equipment. The results showed that the nanocomposite membrane was effective in improving the electrical properties, whereas the glass fabric could significantly suppress the thermal conductivity. The results suggest that the glass fabric covered with nanocomposite fibers containing nanofillers (15 wt% CNT & 15 wt% CuO) has a high potential to enhance the resistance against external force by 56% on average, compared to the uncovered glass fabric. Besides the power factor of the TE composite structure can reach up to 19.61 μW m−1 K−2, which can power an output voltage of 3.2 V at a temperature difference from 20 to 80°C.
Sanierung der Drainage‐ und Kontrollbohrungen im Untergrund der Sorpetalsperre
Authors: Kreutzer Matthias , Last Katja , Demisch Gabriele , Reitmayer Elisabeth
Published: March 2024

Um die Tragfähigkeit des Absperrbauwerks der Sorpetalsperre langfristig zu gewährleisten, saniert der Ruhrverband das nicht mehr vollständig funktionsfähige Drainage‐ und Kontrollsystem im Untergrund. Der von 1926 bis 1935 erbaute, 69 m hohe Steinschüttdamm mit Betonkerndichtung wurde während des Zweiten Weltkriegs beschädigt, was zu erhöhten Sickerwassermengen im Kontrollgang führte. In den 1950er‐Jahren wurde daraufhin das ursprüngliche Drainagesystem verpresst und ein neues System erstellt. In den 2010er‐Jahren ist festgestellt worden, dass diese Bohrungen im Felsuntergrund nicht mehr über ihre ursprüngliche Tiefe verfügen, da sie durch eisen‐ und manganhaltige Sedimente verstopft sind. Im Rahmen der aktuellen Sanierung werden die vorhandenen Drainage‐ und Kontrollbohrungen entweder bohrtechnisch aufgeweitet oder mit Zementsuspension verfüllt und durch neue Bohrprofile ersetzt. Anschließend werden alle Bohrungen zu Messstellen zur Erfassung des Wasserstands, des Sickerwassers und des Drucks ausgebaut. Die Durchführung der Bohrarbeiten stellt aufgrund der beengten Platzverhältnisse innerhalb des Absperrbauwerks eine besondere Herausforderung dar. Im Juli 2022 ist die Sanierung wegen des Antreffens von PAK‐haltigem chemischen Injektionsmitteln in einer Bohrung vorübergehend gestoppt worden. Die Arbeiten werden voraussichtlich im ersten Quartal 2024 im Schwarz‐Weiß‐Prinzip mit künstlicher Bewetterung und einer Flockungs‐ und Aktivkohlefilteranlage zur Reinigung der Bohrspülung fortgesetzt.
Haltung zur Erhaltung
Authors: Kunz Claus
Published: March 2024

Wasserbauwerke sind seit alters als langlebige Infrastrukturgüter konzipiert worden, was sich auch in aktuellen Regelwerken für neue Bauwerke widerspiegelt. Klimawandel und Klimaschutz bestätigen die Anforderungen nach dauerhaften Bauwerken mit einer möglichst langen Nutzungsdauer. Bestehende Wasserbauwerke sollten dieser Zielsetzung entsprechen und so lange erhalten werden, wie es technisch, betrieblich, wirtschaftlich und ökologisch sinnvoll ist. Die Erhaltung sollte nicht nur das Erreichen der geplanten Nutzungsdauer gewährleisten, sondern darüber hinaus eine Nutzungsdauerverlängerung bewirken. Diese kann bspw. durch realistischere statische Nachweise der Bauwerke, durch Wartung und durch optimierte Instandsetzungen erreicht werden.
Platform development for high‐throughput optimization of perfusion processes—Part II: Variation of perfusion rate strategies in microwell plates
Authors: Dorn Marie , Lucas Ciara , Klottrup‐Rees Kerensa , Lee Ken , Micheletti Martina
Published: March 2024

The biopharmaceutical industry is replacing fed‐batch with perfusion processes to take advantage of reduced capital and operational costs due to the operation at high cell densities (HCD) and improved productivities. HCDs are achieved by cell retention and continuous medium exchange, which is often based on the cell‐specific perfusion rate (CSPR). To obtain a cost‐productive process the perfusion rate must be determined for each process individually. However, determining optimal operating conditions remain labor‐intensive and time‐consuming experiments, as investigations are performed in lab‐scale perfusion bioreactors. Small‐scale models such as microwell plates (MWPs) provide an option for screening multiple perfusion rates in parallel in a semi‐perfusion mimic. This study investigated two perfusion rate strategies applied to the MWP platform operated in semi‐perfusion. The CSPR‐based perfusion rate strategy aimed to maintain multiple CSPR values throughout the cultivation and was compared to a cultivation with a perfusion rate of 1 RV d−1. The cellular performance was investigated with the dual aim (i) to achieve HCD, when inoculating at conventional and HCDs, and (ii) to maintain HCDs, when applying an additional manual cell bleed. With both perfusion rate strategies viable cell concentrations up to 50 × 106 cells mL−1 were achieved and comparable results for key metabolites and antibody product titers were obtained. Furthermore, the combined application of cell bleed and CSPR‐based medium exchange was successfully shown with similar results for growth, metabolites, and productivities, respectively, while reducing the medium consumption by up to 50% for HCD cultivations.
Regulated cell death‐amplified sonodynamic anti‐tumor immune nanotherapeutics
Authors: Zhou Liqiang , Chen Yangmengfan , Xie Dong , Li Kun , Cui Xinwu , Dietrich Christoph F. , Nüssler Andreas K. , Zhang Xuanjun
Published: March 2024

Nanomedicine‐assisted sonodynamic therapy (SDT) has emerged as one of the most promising cancer therapies due to its unique advantages of high penetration, non‐radiation, and excellent oxidative stress effect, but has always suffered from the self‐protection mechanism and apoptosis resistance characteristics of evolutionarily mutated cancer cells. Regulated cell death (RCD) has received increasing attention in precision cancer treatments because of its significant role in synergistically sensitizing apoptosis and reversing the immunosuppressive microenvironment during SDT nanomedicine‐triggered immunogenic cell death. Herein, paradigmatic research of RCD‐augmented sonodynamic tumor immunotherapeutics are typically introduced, such as autophagy blockade, ferroptosis targeting, pyroptosis induction, necroptosis initiation, cuproptosis actuation, PANoptosis trigger, and the coordinated anti‐tumor mechanisms are discussed in detail. Multiple analysis focusing on the currently unsolved problems and future development prospects of RCD‐based SDT nano‐oncology medicine are also discussed and prospected to further strengthen and expand the scope of its therapeutic applications.
Biodiversity management and stock price crash risk
Authors: Bassen Alexander , Buchholz Daniel , Lopatta Kerstin , Rudolf Anna R.
Published: March 2024

This study explores the link between corporate biodiversity management and the risk of sudden declines in future stock prices, an area largely overlooked in empirical research despite the societal significance of biodiversity loss. We posit that robust corporate biodiversity efforts mitigate the suppression of negative information, consequently reducing the risk of abrupt stock price declines. Leveraging a global dataset and innovative biodiversity management metrics from Moody's ESG Solutions (former Vigero Eiris), our multivariate regression analysis demonstrates that companies with stronger biodiversity structures and actions exhibit lower stock price crash risk. In an additional analysis, we focus on environmental inspections as a possible conduit for releasing negative information on biodiversity management. Using a subsample of North American firms that were inspected by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), we find that firms which experience an inspection record an increase in their stock price crash risk.
Protective autophagy enhances antistress ability through AMPK/ULK1 signaling pathway in human immortalized keratinocytes
Authors: Shi Zhinan , Wang Jing , Li Min , Gu Li , Xu Zhiyi , Zhai Xiaoyu , Zhou Shu , Zhao Jingting , Gu Liqun , Chen Lin , Ju Linling , Zhou Bingrong , Hua Hui
Published: March 2024

Keratinocytes, located in the outermost layer of human skin, are pivotal cells to resist environmental damage. Cellular autophagy plays a critical role in eliminating damaged organelles and maintaining skin cell homeostasis. Low‐dose 5‐Aminolevulinic acid photodynamic therapy (ALA‐PDT) has been demonstrated to enhance skin's antistress ability; however, the regulatory mechanisms of autophagy in keratinocytes remain unclear. In this study, we treated immortalized human keratinocytes (HaCaT cells) with low‐dose ALA‐PDT (0.5 mmol/L, 3 J/cm2). Through RNA‐sequencing analysis, we identified that low‐dose ALA‐PDT modulated autophagy‐related pathways in keratinocytes and pinpointed Unc‐51‐like kinase 1 (ULK1) as a key gene involved. Western blot results revealed that low‐dose ALA‐PDT treatment upregulated the expression of autophagy‐related proteins Beclin‐1 and LC3‐II/LC3‐I ratio. Notably, low‐dose ALA‐PDT regulated autophagy by inducing an appropriate level of reactive oxygen species (ROS), transiently reducing mitochondrial membrane potential, and decreasing adenosine triphosphate production; all these processes functioned on the AMP‐activated protein kinase (AMPK)/ULK1 pathway to activate autophagy. Finally, we simulated external environmental damage using ultraviolet B (UVB) at a dose of 60 mJ/cm2 and observed that low‐dose ALA‐PDT mitigated UVB‐induced cell apoptosis; however, this protective effect was reversed when using the autophagy inhibitor 3‐methyladenine. Overall, these findings highlight how low‐dose ALA‐PDT enhances antistress ability in HaCaT cells through controlling ROS generation and activating the AMPK/ULK1 pathway to arouse cellular autophagy.
Secondary syphilis in the third trimester of pregnancy
Authors: Tajiri Ryosuke , Kondo Emi , Saito Yuma , Sekimata Mao , Kinjo Yasuyuki , Mori Hiroshi , Yoshino Kiyoshi
Published: March 2024

Key Clinical Message

Syphilis infections discovered late in pregnancy, as in this case, may not be treated long enough for delivery. The Japanese guidelines should be revised because they do not describe the mode of delivery for pregnant women infected with syphilis.
3,4‐Dimethylenecyclobutene: A Building Block for Design of Macrocycles with Excited State Aromatic Low‐Lying High‐Spin States
Authors: Preethalayam Preethanuj , Roldao Juan Carlos , Castet Frédéric , Casanova David , Radenković Slavko , Ottosson Henrik
Published: March 2024

3,4‐Dimethylenecyclobutene (DMCB) is an unusual isomer of benzene. Motivated by recent synthetic progress to substituted derivatives of this scaffold, we carried out a theoretical and computational analysis with a particular focus on the extent of (anti)aromatic character in the lowest excited states of different multiplicities. We found that the parent DMCB is non‐aromatic in its singlet ground state (S0), lowest triplet state (T1), and lowest singlet excited state (S1), while it is aromatic in its lowest quintet state (Q1) as this state is represented by a triplet multiplicity cyclobutadiene (CBD) ring and two uncoupled same‐spin methylene radicals. Interestingly, the Q1 state, despite having four unpaired electrons, is placed merely 4.8 eV above S0, and there is a corresponding singlet tetraradical 0.16 eV above. The DMCB is potentially a highly useful structural motif for the design of larger molecular entities with interesting optoelectronic properties. Here, we designed macrocycles composed of fused DMCB units, and according to our computations, two of these have low‐lying nonet states (i. e., octaradical states) at energies merely 2.40 and 0.37 eV above their S0 states as a result of local Hückel‐ and Baird‐aromatic character of individual 6π‐ and 4π‐electron monocycles.
Dental students in an orthodontic course flipped classroom: A semi‐experimental study on knowledge, practice, attitude, and satisfaction
Authors: Karandish Maryam , Karimian Zahra , Parastar Mina
Published: March 2024

Objective

The purpose of this study was to determine the students' attitudes before and after the flipped classroom, and the effectiveness of this method to promote the students' lateral cephalograms tracing abilities, students' satisfaction and their final exam scores.

Materials and Methods

This is a single‐group quasi‐experimental research conducted on dental students of Shiraz University of Medical Sciences (SUMS), Iran in 2019. The intervention was carried out in a blended learning approach with the flipped classroom model. Thirty‐five fourth‐year dental students participated in a flipped classroom held during a semester for the lateral cephalograms tracing course. The students were provided with the educational materials before the class time through multimedia learning tools and the class time was devoted to discussions. The students were asked to fill out four questionnaires (pretest/posttest attitudes, pretest/posttest self‐assessments of theoretical knowledge and practical skills in cephalograms, posttest of satisfaction from quality of the course, and posttest of students' views about effectiveness of blended learning tools) and final exam scores of students.

Results

Students' attitudes toward e‐Learning were improved after the flipped classroom and the quality of this method was acceptable to the students (p < .001). Their self‐assessment of theoretical knowledge and practical skills were promoted (p < .001). While all blended learning tools averaged more than the cut‐off‐point, short lecture (5.11 ± 0.98) and live feedback (4.98 ± 1.07) were considered to be the most efficient interactive tools.

Conclusion

It seems that the flipped classroom has a positive effect on increasing students' knowledge, attitude, and satisfaction. In general, this method of learning seems to be favored by dental students.

Clinical Significance

The findings showed that blended learning had a positive effect on increasing knowledge, performance, and satisfaction among dental students. Therefore, blended learning as a reliable method might be used in training dental students.
Whole‐mitogenome analysis unveils previously undescribed genetic diversity in cane toads across their invasion trajectory
Authors: Cheung Kelton , Amos Timothy G. , Shine Rick , DeVore Jayna L. , Ducatez Simon , Edwards Richard J. , Rollins Lee Ann
Published: March 2024

Invasive species offer insights into rapid adaptation to novel environments. The iconic cane toad (Rhinella marina) is an excellent model for studying rapid adaptation during invasion. Previous research using the mitochondrial NADH dehydrogenase 3 (ND3) gene in Hawai'ian and Australian invasive populations found a single haplotype, indicating an extreme genetic bottleneck following introduction. Nuclear genetic diversity also exhibited reductions across the genome in these two populations. Here, we investigated the mitochondrial genomics of cane toads across this invasion trajectory. We created the first reference mitochondrial genome for this species using long‐read sequence data. We combined whole‐genome resequencing data of 15 toads with published transcriptomic data of 125 individuals to construct nearly complete mitochondrial genomes from the native (French Guiana) and introduced (Hawai'i and Australia) ranges for population genomic analyses. In agreement with previous investigations of these populations, we identified genetic bottlenecks in both Hawai'ian and Australian introduced populations, alongside evidence of population expansion in the invasive ranges. Although mitochondrial genetic diversity in introduced populations was reduced, our results revealed that it had been underestimated: we identified 45 mitochondrial haplotypes in Hawai'ian and Australian samples, none of which were found in the native range. Additionally, we identified two distinct groups of haplotypes from the native range, separated by a minimum of 110 base pairs (0.6%). These findings enhance our understanding of how invasion has shaped the genetic landscape of this species.
Synthesis and Properties of Azadibenzo[a,e]pyrenes
Authors: Khomutetckaia Aleksandra , Ehlers Peter , Villinger Alexander , Langer Peter
Published: March 2024

Four different isomeric azadibenzo[a,e]pyrenes (benzo[4,10]anthra[9,1‐gh]isoquinolines and benzo[4,10]anthra[1,9‐fg]isoquinolines) were prepared by combination of Pd‐catalyzed Sonogashira and Suzuki cross‐coupling, Brønsted acid mediated cycloisomerization and Pd‐catalysed CH‐activation reactions. The optical properties have been studied by steady‐state absorption and emission spectroscopy in different solvents and during acid titration. Trifluoroacetic acid protonation strongly affects absorption and emission properties, with variations depending on the position of the nitrogen atom of the specific compound. Electrochemical analysis showed distinct oxidation and reduction potentials. DFT calculations provided further insights into electronic properties.
Cyclodextrin‐Based Catenanes Platformed with meso‐Arylporphyrin
Authors: Asai Kaoru , Mao Qiyue , Nakagami Atsuki , Kitagishi Hiroaki
Published: March 2024

Among mechanically interlocked supramolecular systems with cyclodextrins (CDs), successful examples of CD‐based catenanes are limited compared to a number of CD rotaxanes owing to the synthetic difficulties. We herein demonstrate an efficient synthesis of a CD‐based catenane using a meso‐arylporphyrin (Por) platform. Using Por modified with two olefin‐terminated oxyethylene chains at the cis‐meso‐positions, an interlocked Por‐CD catenane was synthesized via olefin metathesis in the presence of per‐O‐methylated β‐CD (TMe‐β‐CD) in water. The novel Por‐CD catenane was obtained in 30 % isolated yield, which was characterized by MALDI‐TOF mass and NMR spectroscopies. In the latter part, we demonstrate determination of the binding constants between TMe‐β‐CD and meso‐(4‐sulfonatophenyl)porphyrin using Por‐CD catenane, 2,6‐di‐O‐methyl‐β‐CD (DMe‐β‐CD), and 13C‐labeled TMe‐β‐CD (13C‐TMe‐β‐CD). The host‐guest exchange reaction from the Por‐CD catenane/DMe‐β‐CD to the Por‐CD catenane/TMe‐β‐CD complexes was directly monitored through 1D HMQC spectroscopy. The ratio of these complexes revealed the difference in the binding affinities of DMe‐β‐CD and TMe‐β‐CD to Por. The stable 1 : 2 inclusion complex between meso‐tetrakis(4‐sulfonatophenyl)porphyrin (TPPS) and TMe‐β‐CD has been well‐studied for many years. This study is the first to determine the respective binding constants, K1 and K2, using the model system, to be 3.0×107 M−1 and 3.4×107 M−1, respectively.
Selective Transformation of 1,3‐Cyclooctadiene into Novel Functionalized Azaheterocycles, β‐Amino Esters, and Lactams by Means of Ring‐Rearrangement Metathesis
Authors: Semghouli Anas , Drahos László , Volk Balázs , Kiss Loránd
Published: March 2024

Diversity‐oriented synthesis of some novel functionalized azaheterocyclic β‐amino esters with multiple chiral centers from 1,3‐cyclooctadiene‐based β‐amino acids through a stereocontrolled synthetic route has been accomplished. The strategy was based on the creation of some novel unsaturated N‐protected cyclic β‐amino esters from 1,3‐cyclooctadiene. Products were subjected to ring‐opening metathesis (ROM) followed by selective ring‐closing metathesis (RCM). A comparative investigation on the selectivity, regarding the catalysts, yields, conversions, and substrate directing effect on ring‐rearrangement metathesis (RRM) transformation has been accomplished. Importantly, the procedure used in this synthetic process does not affect the configuration of the chiral centers. The pathway takes place across conservation of the configurations of the stereocenters; therefore, the architectural skeleton of the starting cyclooctene‐based β‐amino acids predetermined the structure of the new azaheterocyclic systems.
Analysis of the Causes of Altered Coal Seam Permeability Based on On‐Site Directional Long‐Drill Hydraulic Fracturing Tests
Authors: Zhao Shunkun , Wei Shanyang , Luo Weidong , Su Zhengrui , Li Cai , Zhu Fuzhi
Published: March 2024

This study aims to explore the problem of gas extraction from coal seams. Based on the engineering background of Longfeng coal mine in Guizhou Province, hydraulic fracturing test and DC method test are carried out in 5922 wind tunnel of Longfeng coal mine's second mining area, according to which a drainage model is established to simulate the process of gas drainage from a single hole, in order to evaluate the effect of gas drainage after the completion of the hydraulic fracturing tests. According to the test results, it can be seen that the fracturing is mainly concentrated on both sides of borehole No. 9‐4, with an impact area of up to 30 m and a resistance increase in the range of 100–400 Ωm. After calculation, the theoretical value of effective gas extraction radius after fracturing is 4.83 m, which is increased by 49%; the permeability coefficient after fracturing is increased to 2.64 times of that of the original coal seam. In addition, the average concentration of extracted gas is 68%, which is 7.5 times higher than that without fracturing. Therefore, this research result can provide technical reference for the management of low permeability coal seams under similar geological conditions.
Development of a Tool for Sizing and Technical–Financial Analysis of Energy‐Storage Systems Using Batteries
Authors: Monteiro Amanda , Costa Tatiane , Vasconcelos Andrea , Rode Ana Clara , Filho Roberto Dias , Mohamed Mohamed A. , Ilinca Adrian , Marinho Manoel H. N.
Published: March 2024

In this article, an innovative approach is presented to the sizing and technical–economic analysis of battery energy‐storage systems (BESS) designed for customers in the free energy market in Brazil. The tool enables the integration of photovoltaic (PV) energy sources and includes a comparison between the BESS + PV system and diesel generators. Integrating the computational capabilities of Microsoft Excel in the backend and the intuitive interface of PowerApps in the front end, the sizing process is based on analyzing historical energy invoices spanning at least 12 months or loading data with a 1 h measurement interval. The data discretization over the 8760 h of the year, considering the consumer's load profile, is facilitated by the PowerApps interface, providing a comprehensive visualization of the technical‐economic sizing results for BESS. A case study is conducted for a commercial load with a specific tariff for free energy market customers, revealing viable solutions for BESS compared to diesel alternatives. In this approach, it is aimed to simplify the analysis and decision‐making process, offering a valuable tool for power system engineers to evaluate sustainable and economically viable solutions in the Brazilian free energy market.
High‐resolution mapping type WENO‐Z schemes for solving compressible flow
Authors: Tang Shujiang , Li Mingjun
Published: March 2024

This paper presents a new WENO‐Z scheme (WENO‐MZ) that incorporates a mapping function to enhance the weights of the less smooth sub‐stencils. The mapping function uses an innovative approach to modify the weight ratio of the less smooth sub‐stencil to the smooth stencil. In addition, we present the WENO‐MD scheme, which is a further development of the WENO‐MZ scheme that incorporates a modifier function. The WENO‐MD scheme shows improvements over the WENO‐MZ scheme by achieving an improved optimal order at critical points in higher orders and by increasing the proportion of less smooth sub‐stencils. Theoretical and numerical experiments have shown that the newly developed methods have improved shock capture capabilities and resolution compared to WENO‐JS, WENO‐Z, WENO‐M, WENO‐D, and WENO‐AIM, and also lead to significant computational time savings compared to WENO‐M and WENO‐AIM.
The levels of essential nutrients and nonessential metals in different varieties of teff produced in Hidabu Abote Woreda, Oromia, Ethiopia
Authors: Seyoum Moges Kebede , Fayissa Girma Regassa , Geleta Girma Selale
Published: March 2024

Ethiopia is the world's largest producer of teff (Eragrostis tef Zucc). This research was intended to determine the levels of mineral nutrients (metals and nonmetals) and nonessential metals in the grains of teff. Following the optimization of the method, the samples were wet‐digested using reagents (5‐mL HNO3 and 1‐mL HClO4) at a temperature of 230°C for two and a half hours and analyzed using inductively coupled plasma–optical emission spectrometry. Under the optimum procedure, the coefficients of determination (R2) ranged between .9980 and .9999. The limits of detection and limits of quantification were in the range of 0.036–14.49 and 0.111–43.93 mg/kg, respectively. The recovery ranged from 80.72% to 107.79%, indicating that the method was accurate. The optimized and validated method was applied to quantify the levels of analytes in the teff samples. The overall mean concentrations of the analytes in the three varieties of teff samples were determined (mg/kg) to be in the order P (3890–4853) > K (3040–3784) > Ca (1906–1959) > Mg (1402–1698) > Fe (128–305) > Mn (64–127.8) > Na (50–136.5) > Zn (19.8–27.3) > B (1.8–21.9) > Cu (4.17–6.9) > Ni (2.6–4.05) > Hg (1.8–4.0) > Pb (0.048–3.7) > Cd (0.012–2.09) > As (0.02–0.24), with a % RSD ranging between 0.017 and 11.1. The results revealed that teff grains are a good source of minerals and contain a significant amount of toxic elements, such as Cd, Hg, Pb, and As.
Strengthening the Supply Chain for Utility Infrastructure
Authors: DeCotis Paul A.
Published: March 2024

Given the attention and resources being devoted to decarbonization and the drive toward electrifying buildings and transportation among other uses, there is a need to reengineer the relationships that utilities as buyers have with key suppliers. Strengthening the supply chain for utility infrastructure requires challenging old paradigms and moving away from the traditional relationship among and between buyers and participants along the supply chain.
Establishment of an in situ model to explore the tumor immune microenvironment in head and neck squamous cell carcinoma
Authors: Lu Congxian , Yang Yuteng , Zhang Mingjun , Li Jiaxuan , Song Hao , Zhao Hongfei , Mou Yakui , Li Yumei , Song Xicheng
Published: March 2024

Objective

Establish an in situ model for investigating HNSCC, focusing on tumor growth, metastasis, and the immune microenvironment.

Methods

Generated a monoclonal SCCVII‐ZsGreen cell line through lentiviral transfection. Selected monoclonal lines with growth rates similar to the original SCCVII for in vivo tumorigenesis. Monitored tumor development and metastasis through fluorescence in vivo imaging. Employed immunohistochemistry to assess immune cell distribution in the tumor microenvironment.

Results

SCCVII‐ZsGreen exhibited comparable proliferation and in vivo tumorigenicity to SCCVII. In situ tumor formation on day 10, with cervical metastasis in C57BL/6 mice by day 16. No significant fluorescence signals in organs like liver and lungs, while SCCVII‐ZsGreen presence confirmed in cervical lymph node metastases. Immunohistochemistry revealed CD4+ T, CD8+ T, B, and dendritic cells distribution, with minimal macrophages.

Conclusion

Our model is a valuable tool for studying HNSCC occurrence, metastasis, and immune microenvironment. It allows dynamic observation of tumor development, aids preclinical drug experiments, and facilitates exploration of the tumor immune contexture.
Effectiveness of onabotulinumtoxin A for refractory overactive bladder with cough‐associated detrusor overactivity
Authors: Nakai Chie , Miwa Kosei , Yamaguchi Akane , Takeuchi Yasumichi , Yamaguchi Masami , Kitagawa Yasuhide , Koie Takuya
Published: March 2024

Introduction

We report a case of refractory overactive bladder with cough‐associated detrusor overactivity treated by onabotulinumtoxin A.

Case presentation

A 79‐year‐old woman who underwent mid‐urethral sling surgery 8 years ago complained mainly of urinary incontinence following abdominal pressure. Various medicines to treat overactive bladder symptoms were ineffective. Cystometry revealed cough‐associated detrusor overactivity. Onabotulinumtoxin A injections in her bladder improved subjective symptoms, and cough‐associated detrusor overactivity disappeared on cystometry.

Conclusions

Onabotulinumtoxin A injection effectively resolved refractory overactive bladder with urgency urinary incontinence due to cough‐associated detrusor overactivity.
Deriving relations at multiple levels of complexity following minimal instruction: A demonstration
Authors: Paranczak Jessica L. , Lambert Joseph M. , Ledford Jennifer R. , Copeland Bailey A. , Macdonald M. Janey
Published: March 2024

Recommendations for achieving generalized instructional outcomes often overlook the capacity for generative learning for most verbally competent humans. Four children (ages 5–8) participated in this project. In Study 1, we provided decontextualized discrete trial teaching to establish arbitrary relations between colors, pictures of characters, and researcher motor actions. All participants engaged in derivative responding, providing evidence of relational framing. Subsequently, we demonstrated that, with no additional instruction, these derivatives contributed to effective action within a socially valid context (i.e., Candyland gameplay). Study 2 extended the demonstration by teaching frames of opposition. Following teaching, all participants engaged in novel and contextually appropriate responding that entailed the derivation of both coordination and opposition between untrained stimuli. This outcome demonstrates how teaching simple relations can result in learning that manifests at higher levels of complexity (i.e., relational networking), providing some evidence that there can be socially valid benefits to decontextualized discrete trial instruction.
Conceptual methods for synthesis of reactive distillation processes: recent developments and perspectives
Authors: Kiss Anton A , Muthia Rahma , Pazmiño‐Mayorga Isabel , Harmsen Jan , Jobson Megan , Gao Xin
Published: March 2024

Reactive distillation (RD) is a process intensification technique that offers major advantages over conventional technologies by enabling the integration of reaction and separation into a single apparatus. This integration introduces and exploits complex interaction between mass transfer, chemical reaction and hydrodynamics within an RD column; however, these complexities can hinder the adoption of RD by industry. Many approaches have been developed by the scientific community to advance understanding and to expedite the initialization of RD design at the conceptual level. This paper critically discusses recent developments in conceptual methods for synthesizing RD processes. This review paper is the first to consider the range of available approaches for assessing the technical feasibility, controllability, economic viability, and sustainability of RD units by taking into account various configurations in which RD is treated as a new unit operation, and as part of process synthesis in a different way of designing processes based on functions. The review also addresses complex configurations, such as advanced RD technologies. Special attention is paid to process modeling and simulation as well as to education. Knowledge gaps to be filled by further research are indicated. © 2024 The Authors. Journal of Chemical Technology and Biotechnology published by John Wiley & Sons Ltd on behalf of Society of Chemical Industry (SCI).
Differential leg and trunk operation during skipping without and with hurdles in bipedal Japanese macaque
Authors: Blickhan Reinhard , Andrada Emanuel , Hirasaki Eishi , Ogihara Naomichi
Published: March 2024

When locomoting bipedally at higher speeds, macaques preferred unilateral skipping (galloping). The same skipping pattern was maintained while hurdling across two low obstacles at the distance of a stride within our experimental track. The present study investigated leg and trunk joint rotations and leg joint moments, with the aim of clarifying the differential leg and trunk operation during skipping in bipedal macaques. Especially at the hip, the range of joint rotation and extension at lift off was larger in the leading than in the trailing leg. The flexing knee absorbed energy and the extending ankle generated work during each step. The trunk showed only minor deviations from symmetry. Hurdling amplified the differences and notably resulted in a quasi‐elastic use of the leading knee and in an asymmetric operation of the trunk.
Sharp lower bounds for the number of maximum matchings in bipartite multigraphs
Authors: Kostochka Alexandr V. , West Douglas B. , Xiang Zimu
Published: March 2024

We study the minimum number of maximum matchings in a bipartite multigraph with parts and under various conditions, refining the well‐known lower bound due to M. Hall. When , every vertex in has degree at least , and every vertex in has at least distinct neighbors, the minimum is when and is when . When every vertex has at least two neighbors and , the minimum is , where . We also determine the minimum number of maximum matchings in several other situations. We provide a variety of sharpness constructions.
Investigation of CaMV‐host co‐evolution through synonymous codon pattern
Authors: Pouresmaeil Mahin , Azizi‐Dargahlou Shahnam
Published: March 2024

Cauliflower mosaic virus (CaMV) has a double‐stranded DNA genome and is globally distributed. The phylogeny tree of 121 CaMV isolates was categorized into two primary groups, with Iranian isolates showing the greatest genetic variations. Nucleotide A demonstrated the highest percentage (36.95%) in the CaMV genome and the dinucleotide odds ratio analysis revealed that TC dinucleotide (1.34 ≥ 1.23) and CG dinucleotide (0.63 ≤ 0.78) are overrepresented and underrepresented, respectively. Relative synonymous codon usage (RSCU) analysis confirmed codon usage bias in CaMV and its hosts. Brassica oleracea and Brassica rapa, among the susceptible hosts of CaMV, showed a codon adaptation index (CAI) value above 0.8. Additionally, relative codon deoptimization index (RCDI) results exhibited the highest degree of deoptimization in Raphanus sativus. These findings suggest that the genes of CaMV underwent codon adaptation with its hosts. Among the CaMV open reading frames (ORFs), genes that produce reverse transcriptase and virus coat proteins showed the highest CAI value of 0.83. These genes are crucial for the creation of new virion particles. The results confirm that CaMV co‐evolved with its host to ensure the optimal expression of its genes in the hosts, allowing for easy infection and effective spread. To detect the force behind codon usage bias, an effective number of codons (ENC)‐plot and neutrality plot were conducted. The results indicated that natural selection is the primary factor influencing CaMV codon usage bias.
Refining Holocene sea‐level variations for the Lofoten and Vesterålen archipelagos, northern Norway: implications for prehistoric human–environment interactions
Authors: Balascio Nicholas L. , D'Andrea William J. , Creel Roger C. , Marshall Leah , Dia Moussa , Wickler Stephen , Anderson R. Scott , Austermann Jacqueline , Vasskog Kristian , Nielsen Pål Ringkjøb , Dahl Svein Olaf
Published: March 2024

The Lofoten and Vesterålen archipelagos are located off the outer coast of northern Norway far from the center of the former Fennoscandian Ice Sheet and near the continental shelf edge. Existing relative sea‐level (RSL) data indicate a pronounced mid‐Holocene transgression and interesting connections with the region's prehistoric human settlement history. Here we present seven new sea‐level index points from isolation basins and five terrestrial limiting points from a coastal sedimentary sequence to refine the region's RSL history. Ingression and isolation contacts in isolation basin sediment cores are identified using sedimentary geochemical data, scanning X‐ray fluorescence profiles and phytoplankton analysis. The ages of these contacts are determined using radiocarbon‐based age models. Our index points range from 11.2 to 1.5k cal a bp and are combined with previously published data to predict the spatiotemporal evolution of sea level in this region using an ensemble of spatiotemporal empirical hierarchical models (STEHME). The new RSL curve constrains the timing of the mid‐Holocene transgression, which occurred from c. 9 to 6k cal a 
bp when sea level increased from −4 to 7 m above present day. From c. 6 to 5k cal a 
bp, RSL rapidly fell to c. 4 m above present values, and more gradually declined at an average rate of c. 0.8 m ka−1 over the last 5k cal a 
bp. Isobase maps derived using the STEHME show a decrease in the regional shoreline gradients since the transgression maximum from 0.25 to 0.07 m km−1. Our data also better define how RSL variations influenced the location and preservation of coastal settlement locations and harbors from the early Stone Age through historic intervals, improving understanding of regional human–environment interactions.
Mechanism of organic matter enrichment in a basin with shallow biogenic gas: a case study of Pleistocene shale in the Qaidam Basin
Authors: Liu Xiaoxue , Jiang Zhenxue , Tang Xianglu , Shao Zeyu , Xu Mingshuai
Published: March 2024

Organic matter is the material basis of shale gas. The Qaidam Basin is a key exploration and development area for shallow biogenic shale gas in China. In this study, we have focused on Quaternary Pleistocene shale in the Qaidam Basin, and the mechanism of organic matter enrichment was investigated in terms of water column stratification and paleoclimate. The results show that the K9–K7 section has greater biological productivity than the K5–K4 section. During the early–middle Pleistocene (K9–K7 deposition period), due to a warm and humid climate, the water column was strongly stratified and herbaceous plants developed, resulting in increased biological productivity. Stronger stratification also led to a reducing environment in the lower layer, which was conducive to the preservation of organic matter from the upper layer. During the late Pleistocene (K5–K4 deposition period), with a dry and hot climate, stratification became weaker and the vegetation evolved into woody plants, reducing biological productivity. Weaker stratification led to destruction of the reducing environment, which was not conducive to enrichment of the sedimentary organic matter. Moreover, the increased temperatures increased the activity of methanogenic bacteria, which consumed a lot of the organic matter.
Efficient production of isomaltulose using engineered Yarrowia lipolytica strain facilitated by non‐yeast signal peptide‐mediated cell surface display
Authors: Liu Juanjuan , Li Jiao , Chen Peng , Zeng Yan , Yang Jiangang , Sun Yuanxia
Published: March 2024

BACKGROUND

Isomaltulose is a ‘generally recognized as safe’ ingredient and is widely used in the food, pharmaceutical and chemical industries. The exploration and development of efficient technologies is essential for enhancing isomaltulose yield.

RESULTS

In the present study, a simple and efficient surface display platform mediated by a non‐yeast signal peptide was developed in Yarrowia lipolytica and utilized to efficiently produce isomaltulose from sucrose. We discovered that the signal peptide SP1 of sucrose isomerase from Pantoea dispersa UQ68J (PdSI) could guide SIs anchoring to the cell surface of Y. lipolytica, demonstrating a novel and simple cell surface display strategy. Furthermore, the PdSI expression level was significantly increased through optimizing the promoters and multi‐site integrating genes into chromosome. The final strain gained 451.7 g L−1 isomaltulose with a conversion rate of 90.3% and a space–time yield of 50.2 g L−1 h−1.

CONCLUSION

The present study provides an efficient way for manufacturing isomaltulose with a high space–time yield. This heterogenous signal peptide‐mediated cell surface display strategy featured with small fusion tag (approximately 2.2 kDa of SP1), absence of enzyme leakage in fermentation broth and ample room for optimization, providing a convenient way to construct whole‐cell biocatalysts to synthesize other products and broadening the array of molecular toolboxes accessible for engineering Y. lipolytica. © 2024 Society of Chemical Industry.