bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Portable Flexible Spherical Origami Joule‐Heaters with Aerogel
Authors: Chan Yee Him Timothy , Zhong Haosong , Xu Yang , Lin Jing , Chen Siyu , Yang Rongliang , Li Mitch Guijun
Published: July 2024

Trending portable smart devices are providing great convenience to the daily life. Thermal conductivity is efficient for contact heat transfer. Unfortunately, existing rigid surfaces can hardly heat objects in arbitrary shapes. Herein, a flexible origami‐structure heater fabricated by scalable laser manufacturing with temperature feedback control is proposed. The thin film origami heater is designed as a pair of semispherical origami patterns, which can conform to the curved surface of food samples more effectively. Therefore, the heat conducting area is increased to generate a fast and even heating profile to the surface of the food samples. The outer aerogel provides high thermal insulation to prevent heat dissipation in the environment. As proof of concept, the heating device can cook quail eggs within 3 minutes at a constant temperature of 100 °C. The power consumption of this heater is as low as 18 W, which standard portable chargers can power. This work significantly promotes the usability of portable heaters for cooking spherical objects, providing more conveniences during outdoor hiking and even in outer space where water‐boiling is impossible without atmosphere and gravity.
Copper Functionalized SnSe Nanoflakes Enabling Nonlinear Optical Features for Ultrafast Photonics
Authors: Ren Ke , Yuan Hualei , Pan Zhongben , Li Zongsheng , Pan Han , Chu Hongwei , Li Dechun
Published: July 2024

This study enhances the ultrafast photonics application of tin selenide (SnSe) nanoflakes via copper (Cu) functionalization to overcome challenges such as low conductivity and weak near‐infrared (NIR) absorption. Cu functionalization enhances concentration, induces strain, and reduces the bandgap through Sn substitution and Sn vacancy filling with Cu ions. Demonstrated by density functional theory calculations and experimental analyses, Cu‐functionalized SnSe exhibits improved NIR optical absorption and superior third‐order nonlinear optical properties. Z‐scan measurements and femtosecond transient absorption spectroscopy reveal better performance of Cu‐functionalized SnSe in terms of nonlinear optical properties and shorter carrier relaxation times compared to pristine SnSe. Furthermore, saturable absorbers based on both SnSe types, when integrated into an erbium‐doped fiber laser, show that Cu functionalization leads to a decrease in pulse duration to 798 fs and an increase in 3 dB spectral bandwidth to 3.44 nm. Additionally, it enables stable harmonic mode‐locking of bound‐state solitons. This work suggests a new direction for improving wide bandgap 2D materials by highlighting the enhanced nonlinear optical properties and potential of Cu‐functionalized SnSe in ultrafast photonics.
Effects of Ligand Chemistry on Ion Transport in 2D Hybrid Organic–Inorganic Perovskites
Authors: Wei Grace , Kaplan Alan B. , Zhang Hang , Loo Yueh‐Lin , Webb Michael A.
Published: July 2024

2D hybrid organic–inorganic perovskites are potentially promising materials as passivation layers that can enhance the efficiency and stability of perovskite photovoltaics. The ability to suppress ion transport is proposed as a stabilization mechanism, yet an effective characterization of relevant modes of halide diffusion in 2D perovskites is nascent. In light of this knowledge gap, molecular dynamics simulations with enhanced sampling and experimental validation to systematically characterize how ligand chemistry in seven (R‐NH3)2PbI4 systems impacts halide diffusion, particularly in the out‐of‐plane direction is combined. It is found that increasing stiffness and length of ligands generally inhibits ion transport, while increasing ligand polarization generally enhances it. Structural and energetic analyses of the migration pathways provide quantitative explanations for these trends, which reflect aspects of the disorder of the organic layer. Overall, this mechanistic analysis greatly enhances the current understanding of halide migration in 2D hybrid organic–inorganic perovskites and yields insights that can inform the design of future passivation materials.
A Bio‐Inspired Dendritic MoOx Electrocatalyst for Efficient Electrochemical Nitrate Reduction to Ammonia
Authors: Xu Yuan‐Zi , Abbott Daniel F. , Dürr Robin N. , Huan Tran Ngoc , Mougel Victor
Published: July 2024

Drawing inspiration from the nitrate reductase enzymes, which catalyze nitrate to nitrite in nature, here a bio‐inspired, reduced molybdenum oxide (MoOx) shell is introduced that is grown on top of a dendritic nickel foam core (NiNF). The resulting MoOx/NiNF material is prepared via a facile, two‐step electrodeposition strategy using commercially available, low‐cost precursors. This catalytic material displays a remarkable faradaic efficiency (FE) of 99% at −0.5 V versus RHE and a high ammonia (NH3) yield rate of up to 4.29 mmol h−1 cm−2 at −1.0 V versus RHE in neutral media. Most importantly, MoOx/NiNF exhibits exceptional stability for the nitrate reduction reaction (NO3RR), maintaining operation for over 3100 h at a high current density of −650 mA cm−2, with a yield rate of 2.6 mmol h−1 cm−2 and a stable average NH3 FE of ≈83%. Through combined XPS and in situ Raman spectroscopy it is shown that the pronounced affinity of MoOx/NiNF for nitrate is associated with a substantial presence of oxygen vacancies within the material.
Application of graphical analysis and principal components to identify the effect of genotype × trait in maize hybrids
Authors: Shojaei Seyed Habib , Bihamta Mohammad Reza , Mousavi Seyed Mohammad Nasir , Qasemi Seyed Hamed , Keshavarzi Mohammad Hossein Bijeh , Omrani Ali
Published: July 2024

In order to identify the effect of genotype × trait, 20 maize (Zea mays L.) hybrids were cultivated and investigated in a randomized complete block design in three replications in the Karaj region. The results of the analysis of variance showed that the effect of genotype in terms of all traits except for the traits of days until the tassel dries, peduncle outside the flag leaf, tassel length, the number of fill seeds, and the depth of the seeds are significantly different. Based on the mean comparison done by Duncan's method, G3, G6, G7, and G4 genotypes were identified as favorable hybrids. Based on the graphic analysis, the genotypes G5, G4, G6, G3, G9, and G14 can be identified as desirable hybrids. The correlation diagram indicated that the grain yield trait has a positive correlation with tassel length, leaf length, leaf width, and leaf surface traits. Based on the principal component analysis, the first 10 components explained more than 74% of the data variance. The traits were classified into 10 components: components of ear characteristics, time characteristics in terms of maturity, leaf characteristics, characteristics of maize plant 1 (cob corn diameter, peduncle length, and grain yield traits), characteristics of maize plant 2 (number of tassel branches, leaf surface, and grain yield traits), physiological characteristics and germination, the crown part of the ear characteristics, grain characteristics, grain yield, and characteristics of the ear head. The experiment results indicated that G8, G15, G1, and G6 hybrids were more favorable in terms of grain yield trait.
Long Short‐Term Memory‐Based Multi‐Robot Trajectory Planning: Learn from MPCC and Make It Better
Authors: Xin Jianbin , Xu Tao , Zhu Jihong , Wang Heshan , Peng Jinzhu
Published: July 2024

The current trajectory planning methods for multi‐robot systems face challenges due to high computational burden and inadequate adaptability in complex constrained environments, obstructing efficiency improvements in production and logistics. This article presents an innovative solution by integrating model predictive contouring control (MPCC) and long short‐term memory (LSTM) networks for real‐time trajectory planning of multiple mobile robots. Based on the datasets generated by MPCC, a customized LSTM network is constructed to learn the collaborative planning behavior from these datasets offline, subsequently producing smooth and efficient trajectories online with a low computational burden. Moreover, a hybrid control scheme, incorporating a lidar‐based safety evaluator, avoids unexpected collision risks by switching to MPCC when necessary, ensuring the overall safety and reliability of the multi‐robot system. The proposed hybrid LSTM method is implemented and tested in the robot operating system (ROS) within diverse constrained scenarios. Experimental results demonstrate that the hybrid LSTM method achieves ≈6% enhancements in trajectory productivity and a reduced computational burden of roughly 75% compared to MPCC, thereby providing a promising solution for local multi‐robot trajectory planning in logistics transportation tasks.
Probabilistic Discrete‐Time Models for Spreading Processes in Complex Networks: A Review
Authors: Granell Clara , Gómez Sergio , Gómez‐Gardeñes Jesús , Arenas Alex
Published: July 2024

Research into network dynamics of spreading processes typically employs both discrete and continuous time methodologies. Although each approach offers distinct insights, integrating them can be challenging, particularly when maintaining coherence across different time scales. This review focuses on the Microscopic Markov Chain Approach (MMCA), a probabilistic f ramework originally designed for epidemic modeling. MMCA uses discrete dynamics to compute the probabilities of individuals transitioning between epidemiological states. By treating each time step—usually a day—as a discrete event, the approach captures multiple concurrent changes within this time frame. The approach allows to estimate the likelihood of individuals or populations being in specific states, which correspond to distinct epidemiological compartments. This review synthesizes key findings from the application of this approach, providing a comprehensive overview of its utility in understanding epidemic spread.
Leveraging Ligand Steric Demand to Control Ligand Exchange and Domain Composition in Stratified Metal–Organic Frameworks
Authors: He Yiwen , De Souza Mattheus , Luo Tian‐Yi , Achar Siddarth K. , Johnson J. Karl , Rosi Nathaniel L.
Published: July 2024

Incorporating diverse components into metal–organic frameworks (MOFs) can expand their scope of properties and applications. Stratified MOFs (sMOFs) consist of compositionally unique concentric domains (strata), offering unprecedented complexity through partitioning of structural and functional components. However, the labile nature of metal‐ligand coordination handicaps achieving compositionally distinct domains due to ligand exchange reactions occurring concurrently with secondary strata growth. To achieve complex sMOF compositions, characterizing and controlling the competing processes of new strata growth and ligand exchange are vital. This work systematically examines controlling ligand exchange in UiO‐67 sMOFs by tuning ligand sterics. We present quantitative methods for assessing and visualizing the outcomes of strata growth and ligand exchange that rely on high‐angle annular dark‐field images and elemental mapping via scanning transmission electron microscopy‐energy dispersive X‐ray spectroscopy. In addition, we leverage ligand sterics to create ‘blocking layers’ that minimize ligand exchange between strata which are particularly susceptible to ligand exchange and inter‐strata ligand mixing. Finally, we evaluate strata compositional integrity in various solvents and find that sMOFs can maintain their compositions for >12 months in some cases. Collectively, these studies and methods enhance understanding and control over ligand placement in multi‐domain MOFs, factors that underscore careful tunning of properties and function.
Direct Excitation Strategy for Deacylative Couplings of Ketones
Authors: Li Jianbin , Zhang Ding , Tan Lida , Li Chao‐Jun
Published: July 2024

The homolysis of chemical bonds represents one of the most fundamental reactivities of excited molecules. Historically, it has been exploited to generate radicals under ultraviolet (UV) light irradiation. However, unlike most contemporary radical‐generating mechanisms, the direct excitation to homolyze chemical bonds and produce aliphatic carbon‐centered radicals under visible light remains rare, especially in metallaphotoredox cross couplings. Herein, we present our design of the dihydropyrimidoquinolinone (DHPQ) reagents derived from ketones, which can undergo formal deacylation and homolytic C−C bond cleavage to release alkyl radicals without external photocatalysts. Spectroscopic and computational analysis reveal unique optical and structural features of DHPQs, rationalizing their faster kinetics in alkyl radical generation than a structurally similar but visible‐light transparent radical precursor. Such a capability allows DHPQ to facilitate a wide range of Ni‐metallaphotoredox cross couplings with aryl, alkynyl and acyl halides. Other catalytic and non‐catalyzed alkylative transformations of DHPQs are also feasible with various radical acceptors. We believe this work would be of broad interest, aiding the synthetic planning with simplified operation and expanding the synthetic reach of photocatalyst‐free approaches in cutting‐edge research.
Photoredox Catalytic Deracemization Enabled Enantioselective and Modular Access to Axially Chiral N‐Arylquinazolinones
Authors: Liu Yilin , Chu Mengqi , Li Xiangtao , Cao Zheng , Zhao Xiaowei , Yin Yanli , Jiang Zhiyong
Published: July 2024

Visible light‐driven photocatalytic deracemization is highly esteemed as an ideal tool for organic synthesis due to its exceptional atom economy and synthetic efficiency. Consequently, successful instances of deracemization of allenes have been established, where the activated energy of photosensitizer should surpass that of the substrates, representing an intrinsic requirement. Accordingly, this method is not applicable for axially chiral molecules with significantly high triplet energies. In this study, we present a photoredox catalytic deracemization approach that enables the efficient synthesis of valuable yet challenging‐to‐access axially chiral 2‐azaarene‐functionalized quinazolinones. The substrate scope is extensive, allowing for both 3‐axis and unmet 1‐axis assembly through facile oxidation of diverse central chiral 2,3‐dihydroquinazolin‐4(1H)‐ones that can be easily prepared and achieve enantiomer enrichment via deracemization. Mechanistic studies reveal the importance of photosensitizer selection in attaining excellent chemoselectivity and highlight the indispensability of a chiral Brønsted acid in enabling highly enantioselective protonation to accomplish efficient deracemization.
Optimizing of heat transfer and flow characteristics within a roughened solar air heater duct with compound turbulators
Authors: Al‐Chlaihawi Kadhim , Alyas Bahjat Hassan , Abdullah Banan Najim
Published: July 2024

Thermal systems for solar air heating have been widely used in both industrial and residential contexts, and are essential for converting and recovering solar energy. Thermal performance in solar air heaters (SAHs) can be improved through the repetitive application of artificial roughness to the surfaces. This research work includes a numerical evaluation of SAH performance with artificial rough surfaces made up of combined transverse trapezoidal ribs and chamfered grooves. The ANSYS Fluent software version 2023 R1 was used to simulate SAH with varying relative roughness pitch (
), relative roughness heights (
), and Reynolds number (
). The RNG
model was chosen to forecast an enhancement in Nusselt number (
), friction factor (
), and thermohydraulic performance factor (TPF) for the proposed roughness. Out of multiple roughness parameters analyzed, it was determined that the compound turbulator with
and
, were the most effective. The TPF for this scenario was determined to be 2.12 at
. Finally, a numerical based empirical correlations for
and
in terms of Re,
, and
were developed.
Physical vapour deposition fabrication of MoO3‐based photoanode for water splitting to generate hydrogen
Authors: Junaid Muhammad , Batoo Khalid Mujasam , Ijaz Muhammad Farzik , Zazoum Bouchaib
Published: July 2024

MoO3 thin film was fabricated on an indium tin oxide substrate using the physical vapor deposition technique. X‐ray diffraction and scanning electron microscopy study to investigate surface morphology, grain size, and surface structure, which are critical for absorbing solar spectra in water splitting for hydrogen energy generation. Ultraviolet–visible spectroscopy was used to confirm the absorption of solar spectra and the percentage of transmittance. Fourier‐transform infrared analysis provided the functional groups present in the deposited thin film. The Tauc plot was used to determine the thin‐film band gap, which allowed for the analysis of charge carrier transitions from the conduction band to the valence band. Electrochemical impedance spectroscopy investigations confirmed the charge transfer processes to the counter electrode and electrolyte interfaces. The observed low curve for MoO3 indicated low resistance and allowed efficient charge transfer. Linear sweep voltammetry analysis was used to measure photocurrent and solar light to hydrogen emission when the thin film was exposed to solar spectra. The thin film's observed hydrogen emission rate was 3731.74 mol g−1 h−1, and the STH% of MoO3 was found to be 0.345% at 0.8 V. These findings highlight the promising potential of MoO3 as a material for hydrogen energy generation using solar light.
Responsible research and innovation: An ambidexterity lens of generalized and specialized responsibilities
Authors: Mei Liang , Zhang Nana , Brem Alexander
Published: July 2024

The incompatibility between diverse responsible principles of science and technology (S&T) and multi‐stakeholders' heterogeneous value assessments underscores the importance of coordinating normative principles of responsible research and innovation (RRI). In this context, this study adopts an ambidexterity lens to address this issue, conceptualizing two constructs—“generalized responsibility” and “specialized responsibility” of S&T (GRST and SRST)—to illustrate the trade‐offs. It explores the antecedents of GRST and SRST from an agency perspective. Drawing from a dataset of 19,707 poll responses, the study employs a fractional logit regression model to examine the relationships between three types of agency (iterational agency, strategic agency, and ethical agency) and GRST and SRST. The results reveal a positive relationship between iterational agency and SRST, and between strategic agency and GRST, as well as U‐shaped effects of iterational agency on GRST, strategic agency on SRST, and ethical agency on both GRST and SRST. Moreover, ethical agency is found to be more important for SRST than for GRST. The study offers theoretical and policy implications for a critical discussion about responsible innovation.
Strategic choices in going public: ESG performance implications in China
Authors: Cheng Zijian , Gao He , Liu Zhangxin ( Frank) , Treepongkaruna Sirimon
Published: July 2024

Choices in going public are important business strategies that can influence Environmental, Social and Governance (ESG) performance through varying levels of regulatory scrutiny, investor expectations, governance improvements, public attention and strategic focus. We investigate the impact of listing approach on ESG performance in China over the period of 2009 to 2022, by comparing the ESG performance of firms going public via initial public offering (IPO) versus reverse merger (RM). Consistent with our institutional, legitimacy and averse‐selection hypotheses, we find that RM firms exhibit significantly lower ESG performance compared with IPO firms, a difference we attribute to the greater performance pressure, higher litigation risk, greater financing constraints and poorer internal controls experienced by RM firms. These factors likely reduce management's willingness to invest in and improve ESG outcomes. However, as time passed, the discrepancy in ESG performance between RM firms and IPO firms gradually diminished. Additionally, the nature of state ownership and reduced competitive pressure in the industry also serve to mitigate the negative impact of RMs on firms' ESG performance. To promote sustainable development, going public via IPO offers a better business strategy, creating shared value among a broader range of stakeholders, including socially responsible investors, advocacy groups and regulators.
Ultrasonic‐Assisted Biphasic Aqueous Extraction of Polyphenols from Vaccinium Dunalianum Leaves: Optimization, Antioxidant, and Tyrosinase Inhibition Activities
Authors: Yang Yang , Han Kangjia , Liu Zhen , Xie Sida , Xu Junming , He Yuanping , Zhao Ping , Yang Xiaoqin
Published: July 2024

To optimize the ultrasonic‐assisted biphasic aqueous extraction conditions for polyphenolic compounds from Vaccinium dunalianum Wight leaves and investigate their antioxidant and tyrosinase inhibition activities, single‐factor experiments were conducted to investigate the effects of ethanol volume fraction (%), ammonium sulfate mass fraction (%), solid‐liquid ratio (g/mL), ultrasonic temperature (°C), and ultrasonic time (min) on polyphenolic content during extraction. Based on these experiments, three key factors influencing extraction were selected for response surface methodology (RSM) optimization. The results indicated that under conditions of 26 % ethanol, 20 % ammonium sulfate, a solid‐liquid ratio of 1 : 30, and extraction for 35 minutes at 50 °C, the polyphenol content reached 61.62 mg/g. The relative contents of 6′‐O‐caffeoylarbutin, β‐arbutin, and chlorogenic acid were 34.45 %, 4.56 %, and 31.06 %, respectively. The DPPH⋅ and ABTS+⋅ scavenging rates were above 95 % and 96 %, respectively, and the ferric reducing ability exhibited a significant dose‐effect relationship. The inhibition rates of monophenolase and diphenolase activities of tyrosinase were 43.84 % and 35.73 %, respectively. The optimized process for ultrasonic‐assisted biphasic aqueous extraction of polyphenols from Vaccinium dunalianum Wight leaves demonstrated significant antioxidant and tyrosinase inhibition activities.
pH Sensitivity of YFPs is Reduced Upon AlphaRep Binding: Proof of Concept in Vitro and in Living Cells
Authors: Bousmah Yasmina , Noiray Magali , Jalaber Hadrien , Pasquier Hélène , Béatrice Valerio‐Lepiniec Marie , Urvoas Agathe , Erard Marie
Published: July 2024

Yellow fluorescent proteins (YFPs) are commonly used in biology to track cellular processes, particularly as acceptors in experiments using the Förster Resonant Energy Transfer (FRET) phenomenon. However, their fluorescence intensity is strongly pH‐dependent, limiting their utility in acidic environments. Here, we explore the pH sensitivity of YFPs upon binding with an artificial repeat protein (αRep) both in vitro and in living cells. We show that αRep binds to Citrine, with high affinity in the nanomolar range at physiological and acidic pHs, leading to increased thermal stability of the complex. Moreover, αRep binding reduces Citrine's pKa by 0.75 pH units, leading to a decreased sensitivity to pH fluctuations. This effect can be generalized to other YFPs as Venus and EYFP in vitro. An efficient binding of αRep to Citrine has also been observed in living cells both at pH 7.4 and pH 6. This interaction leads to reduced variations of Citrine fluorescence intensity in response to pH variations in cells. Overall, the study highlights the potential of αReps as a tool to modulate the pH sensitivity of YFPs, paving the way for future exploration of biological events in acidic environments by FRET in combination with a pH‐insensitive cyan donor.
A case report and literature review: A 19‐year‐old with endometrial carcinoma treated with medroxyprogesterone acetate. Importance of the medical interview and endometrial examination
Authors: Katsuma Shinichiro , Ariyoshi Kazuya , Nio Ai , Taguchi Kenichi , Sonoda Kenzo
Published: July 2024

Key Clinical Message

A 19‐year‐old woman had stage IA endometrial carcinoma treated with medroxyprogesterone acetate and experienced a recurrence. This patient's experience illustrates the importance of a thorough history and endometrial assessment in younger patients.
Family history of type 2 diabetes and the risk of type 2 diabetes among young and middle‐aged adults
Authors: Smith Ken R. , Meeks Huong , Curtis David , Brown Barbara B. , Kole Kyle , Kowaleski‐Jones Lori
Published: July 2024

Background

The prevalence of type 2 diabetes has been growing among younger and middle‐aged adults in the United States. A portion of this increase for this age group may be attributable to shared type 2 diabetes risks with family members. How family history of type 2 diabetes history is associated with type 2 diabetes risk among younger and middle‐aged adults is not well understood.

Methods

This population‐based retrospective cohort study uses administrative, genealogical, and electronic medical records from the Utah Population Database. The study population comprises offspring born between 1970 and 1990 and living in the four urban Utah counties in the United States between 1990 and 2015. The sample comprises 360,907 individuals without a type 2 diabetes diagnosis and 14,817 with a diagnosis. Using multivariate logistic regressions, we estimate the relative risk (RR) of type 2 diabetes associated with the number of affected first‐ (FDRs), second‐ (SDRs), and third‐degree (first cousin) relatives for the full sample and for Hispanic‐specific and sex‐specific subsets.

Results

Individuals with 2+ FDRs with type 2 diabetes have a significant risk of type 2 diabetes in relation to those with no affected FDRs (RR = 3.31 [3.16, 3.48]). Individuals with 2+ versus no SDRs with type 2 diabetes have significant but lower risks (RR = 1.32 [1.25, 1.39]). Those with 2+ versus no affected first cousins have a similarly low risk (RR = 1.28 [1.21, 1.35]). Larger RRs are experienced by males (2+ vs. 0 FDRs, RR = 3.55) than females (2+ vs. 0 FDRs, RR = 3.18) (p < 0.05 for the interaction). These familial associations are partly mediated by the individual's own obesity.

Conclusions

The risks of type 2 diabetes are significantly associated with having affected first‐, second‐, and third‐degree relatives, especially for men. One of the forces contributing to the rising patterns of type 2 diabetes among young and middle‐aged adults is their connection to affected, often older, kin.
Tailoring the Lattice Thermal Conductivity of Al‐Incorporated Ag2Se for Near Room Temperature Waste Heat Recovery
Authors: Mathew Tony , Vijay V. , Archana J. , Navaneethan M. , Ponnusamy S.
Published: July 2024

Ag2Se is categorized as a typical ′phonon‐liquid‐electron‐crystal (PLEC)′material, exhibiting an extremely low
. In this study, Al substituted Ag2Se samples were synthesized by mechanical alloying process followed by hot press densification technique. The Al substituted sample shows an exceptionally high mobility of 2360 cm2 V−1 S−1 at room temperature and a maximum power factor of 1442 μWm−1 K−2 at 383 K. The phonon scattering induced by various crystal imperfections due to Al substitution helped to obtain a very low lattice thermal conductivity
value of 0.3 W/mK. A high figure of merit (zT) of 0.4 at 383 K was obtained as a result of the simultaneous effect of boosting the electrical transport properties and decreasing the thermal conductivity. This present work summarizes that the Al substitution is highly significant in improving the thermoelectric properties of Ag2Se.
Effect of Erdafitinib on the Pharmacokinetics of Midazolam and Metformin in Patients With Advanced Solid Tumors Harboring FGFR Gene Alterations
Authors: Zhu Wei , Baig Mahadi , Naini Vahid , De Meulder Marc , Akapame Sydney , De Zwart Loeckie , Haddish‐Berhane Nahor , Triantos Spyros
Published: July 2024

Erdafitinib, an oral pan‐FGFR inhibitor, is used in locally advanced or metastatic urothelial carcinoma for adults with FGFR3 genetic alterations and whose disease progressed following prior systemic therapy. This drug‐drug interaction substudy evaluated the effect of erdafitinib on the pharmacokinetics of midazolam (cytochrome P450 3A4 substrate), and metformin (organic cation transporter 2 substrate). Twenty‐five patients with advanced solid tumors harboring FGFR gene alterations received pretreatment with single doses of midazolam and metformin, followed by a daily dose of erdafitinib. Drug‐drug interaction assessments were performed at erdafitinib steady state following coadministration of single doses of midazolam and metformin, respectively. Geometric mean ratios for maximum plasma concentration and area under the plasma concentration‐time curve (AUC) from time 0 to the last measurable concentration, and AUC from time 0 to infinity were estimated using linear mixed‐effects models (90% confidence interval within 80%‐125% indicated no interaction). The 90% confidence intervals of geometric mean ratios for maximum plasma concentration, AUC from time 0 to the last measurable concentration, and AUC from time 0 to infinity of midazolam (86.3%, 88.5%, and 82.1%), 1‐OH midazolam (99.8%, 97.4%, and 101.5%), and metformin (108.7%, 119.0%, and 113.9%) were either contained or slightly outside the 80%‐125% interval and not considered clinically meaningful. Adverse events were consistent with the known erdafitinib safety profile; no new safety signals emerged. Thus, repeated dosing of erdafitinib had no clinically meaningful effect on the pharmacokinetics of midazolam or metformin.
DC‐link voltage stability analysis for three‐level boost + full‐bridge LLC cascaded converter using impedance modeling
Authors: Ma Ruiqi , He Shuiyuan , Xie Chongshan , Liu Xinbo , Zhang Jiepin , Ma Yingtao , Kang Chengwei , Diao Lijun
Published: July 2024

The cascade converter system has been widely concerned along with the medium power operating conditions, and it is crucial to address the intricate interplay among individual modules to ensure stability of both the source and load subsystems. This paper analyzes the DC‐link voltage stability based on impedance matching and proposes a normalized sensitivity calculation method based on the control strategy, which prevents the complex products and matrix calculations of traditional methods. The three‐level boost (TLB) output impedance model is derived based on state‐space averaging for open‐loop and considering the double‐loop, and the full‐bridge LLC (FBLLC) input impedance model is derived based on the fundamental equivalent circuit. Then the effect of the double‐loop PI parameters on the output impedance of the TLB is analyzed in detail based on the normalized sensitivity and verified by the Bode plots. The experimental results of the 30 kW prototype indicate that the control parameters were varied by a factor of 10 compared to the theoretical control group. The most significant alteration was the modification of the kp_i, resulting in an 8.9% increase in the DC‐link voltage ripple, while the ki_v was modified, resulting in a 0.53% increase, indicating that the effects of the PI parameter are consistent with the normalized sensitivity results.
Soil flooding filters evolutionary lineages of tree communities in Amazonian riparian forests
Authors: de Souza Sthefanie do Nascimento Gomes , Batista Darlisson Mesquita , Quaresma Adriano Costa , Costa Ana Luiza , Demarchi Layon Oreste , Albuquerque Bianca Weiss , Klein Viviane Pagnussat , Feitoza Gildo , de Resende Angélica Faria , Mori Gisele Biem , Wittmann Florian , Oliveira Leidiane Leão , Mortati Amanda Frederico , da Cunha Alan Cavalcanti , Schongart Jochen , Lopes Aline , Piedade Maria Teresa Fernandez , André Thiago
Published: July 2024

Inundations in Amazonian black‐water river floodplain result in the selection of different tree lineages, thus promoting coexistence between species. We investigated whether Amazonian tree communities are phylogenetically structured and distributed along a flooding gradient from irregularly flooded forests along streams embedded within upland (terra‐firme) forest to seasonally flooded floodplains of large rivers (igapós). Floristic inventories and hydrological monitoring were performed along the Falsino River, a black‐water river in the eastern Amazon within the Amapá National Forest. We constructed a presence‐and‐absence matrix and generated a phylogeny using the vascular plant database available in GenBank. We calculated the standardized values of the metrics of phylogenetic diversity (ses.PD), average phylogenetic distance (ses.MPD), and average nearest‐neighbor distance (ses.MNTD) to test whether the history of relationships between species in the community is influenced by inundation. We used the phylogenetic endemism (PE) metric to verify the existence of taxa with restricted distribution. Linear regressions were used to test whether phylogenetic metrics have a significant relationship with the variables: maximum flood height, maximum water table depth, and maximum flood amplitude. The results show that forests subject to prolonged seasonal flooding have reduced taxon richness, low phylogenetic diversity, and random distribution of lineages within communities. On the other hand, terra‐firme riparian forests showed higher rates of taxon richness, diversity, and phylogenetic dispersion, in addition to greater phylogenetic endemism. These results indicate that seasonal and predictable soil flooding filters tree lineages along the hydrographic gradient. Different adaptations to root waterlogging are likely requirements for colonization in these environments and may represent an important factor in the diversification of tree lineages in the Amazon biome.
Adapting to changing methodology in a long‐term experiment
Authors: McNamara Manning Katherine , Perrone Julia , Petrycki Stephanie , Landis Douglas A. , Bahlai Christie A.
Published: July 2024

Long‐term experiments are critical for understanding ecological processes, but their management comes with unique challenges. As time passes, projects may encounter unavoidable changes due to external factors, like availability of materials, affecting aspects of their research methodology. At the Kellogg Biological Station Long‐Term Ecological Research Site, one of the many National Science Foundation‐funded long‐term research stations, a three‐decade project recently experienced a supply‐chain‐induced change in insect sampling methodology in their lady beetle observation study. Since 1989, lady beetles (Coleoptera: Coccinellidae) have been sampled weekly over the growing season using yellow sticky cards. In 2021, the original sticky traps were discontinued by the manufacturer and replaced with a similar, but not identical trap. We conducted a 3‐year study while the new traps were phased in to examine how the trap change would impact the observed biodiversity patterns at the site. We examined community metrics and individual taxa captures to examine within‐year and between‐year differences in performance between the card types. Overall, we noted several small but statistically detectable differences in capture patterns between the two trap types. After accounting for other sources of variation, we observed a difference in Shannon diversity of insects captured on the two card types, but not richness or abundance, for the overall insect community. Yet, these differences were dwarfed by the magnitude of difference observed between years within card types. For individual taxa, similar patterns held: between trap differences could be detected statistically, but the number of differences in capture rate between trap types was less than the number of differences observed for the same trap, between years. Thus, we conclude that while subtle changes in methodology could impact data produced in long‐term experiments; in this case, the magnitude of this change is smaller than other factors such as time and plant treatment. However, if sustained changes in the capture rates of focal taxa are observed, future data users may use our observations to specifically quantify and correct for these shifting patterns related to the protocol change.
Increased intake of tree forage by moose is associated with intake of crops rich in nonstructural carbohydrates
Authors: Felton Annika M. , Spitzer Robert , Raubenheimer David , Hedwall Per‐Ola , Felton Adam , Nichols Ruth V. , O'Connell Brendan L. , Malmsten Jonas , Löfmarck Erik , Wam Hilde K.
Published: July 2024

Animals representing a wide range of taxonomic groups are known to select specific food combinations to achieve a nutritionally balanced diet. The nutrient balancing hypothesis suggests that, when given the opportunity, animals select foods to achieve a particular target nutrient balance, and that balancing occurs between meals and between days. For wild ruminants who inhabit landscapes dominated by human land use, nutritionally imbalanced diets can result from ingesting agricultural crops rich in starch and sugar (nonstructural carbohydrates [NCs]), which can be provided to them by people as supplementary feeds. Here, we test the nutrient balancing hypothesis by assessing potential effects that the ingestion of such crops by Alces alces (moose) may have on forage intake. We predicted that moose compensate for an imbalanced intake of excess NC by selecting tree forage with macro‐nutritional content better suited for their rumen microbiome during wintertime. We applied DNA metabarcoding to identify plants in fecal and rumen content from the same moose during winter in Sweden. We found that the concentration of NC‐rich crops in feces predicted the presence of Picea abies (Norway spruce) in rumen samples. The finding is consistent with the prediction that moose use tree forage as a nutritionally complementary resource to balance their intake of NC‐rich foods, and that they ingested P. abies in particular (normally a forage rarely eaten by moose) because it was the most readily available tree. Our finding sheds new light on the foraging behavior of a model species in herbivore ecology, and on how habitat alterations by humans may change the behavior of wildlife.
Investigation of the water environmental DNA/RNA profile for non‐invasive biomonitoring of the fish pathogen Aeromonas salmonicida subsp. salmonicida and detection of immune responses in rainbow trout (Oncorhynchus mykiss)
Authors: Marana Moonika Haahr , Jensen Hannah Malene , Christiansen Debes Hammershaimb , Petersen Petra Elisabeth , Dahl Maria Marjunardóttir , Duan Yajiao , Henard Cyril , Jørgensen Louise von Gersdorff
Published: July 2024

Aquaculture industries face challenges in fish production, primarily due to disease occurrence. Clinical manifestations of these diseases often indicate a considerable advancement in the pathological process. Infected fish often experience morbidity, leading to compromised welfare and substantial economic losses for production facilities. Therefore, prophylaxis and early detection of the pathogens could allow the facility managers to intervene or treat the disease before clinical disease signs occur. For the first time, environmental DNA/RNA (collectively eNA) was used to detect the salmonid pathogen Aeromonas salmonicida subsp. salmonicida in the water hosting rainbow trout (Oncorhynchus mykiss). This took place under controlled experimental conditions, before the occurrence of clinical outcome and mortality. The concentration of bacteria in the water was determined by using a standard curve. To determine the window of possible intervention, bacterial concentration was measured from an early stage of disease and throughout when fish became moribund. Furthermore, the acute phase protein, serum amyloid A produced by rainbow trout, was detected in the water and was found to be up‐regulated 4 days post challenge. It was thereby shown that it is possible to detect strong immune responses in the fish in a non‐invasive manner. The detection of eNA from the water can be used as a tool to detect pathogens in the early phase of infection before the disease becomes severe. This will facilitate interventions to limit the disease and increase the welfare of the fish, which is becoming a requirement for a more sustainable and ethical animal production.
Gold in Chalcogenide Square Planar Complexes is Electron Richer than is Commonly Considered: Other Cases of Inverted Ligand Field
Authors: Manca Gabriele , Ienco Andrea
Published: July 2024

Electron distribution and bonding in extended structures based on square planar gold complexes, traditionally classified as gold (III), have been addressed through solid‐state DFT calculations. The band structure analysis, taken as a diagnostic tool, highlighted that, when the metal is associated with chalcogen atoms, the gold centers are more electron rich than the classic accepted description. This is in agreement with the Inverted Ligand Field (ILF) theory that predicts a metal center d10 configuration with two electrons vacancy on the orbital combinations of the ligands for sulfur, selenium and tellurium cases. A covalent bond is featured in oxygen compounds, a borderline situation between the ILF and the classical Ligand Field description. In conclusion, the gold atom in chalcogenide square planar complexes should be considered electron richer than commonly thought applying the traditional rules for calculating the oxidation state.
Room Temperature Ni‐Catalyzed Ullmann Reaction of (Hetero)aryl/Vinyl Chlorides Enabled by Silylchloride‐Activated Mn Powders
Authors: Xü Minling , Wu Shigang , Zou Gang
Published: July 2024

A room temperature Ni‐catalyzed Mn‐mediated homocoupling of (hetero)aryl and vinyl chlorides using Mn powders pre‐activated by trimethylsilylchloride (TMSCl) in DMA is reported. Large steric effects were observed while electronic influences from aryl chlorides proved to be rather small. High regioselectivity could be achieved between ortho‐Cl and para‐Cl/Br of aryl halides benefiting from the large steric effects. A double‐face role of TMSCl, i. e. activation of Mn powders but deactivation of nickel catalyst, was observed although TMSCl‐activated Mn powders appeared to be the privileged metallic reductant. Applications of the protocol have been demonstrated in a multigram synthesis of Daclatasvir.
Conspiracy blaming in the aftermath of group relative deprivation: The moderating role of national narcissism
Authors: Bertin Paul , Ionescu Octavia , Green Ricky , Abts Koen , Rogenhofer Julius , Delouvée Sylvain , Yzerbyt Vincent , Klein Olivier
Published: July 2024

Conspiracy beliefs entail a scapegoating function by attributing the consequences of crises, such as economic downturns, to the secret action of outgroups. While conspiracy beliefs have been described as reactions to economic threats, we argue that this factor alone is not sufficient. Rather, perceiving one's ingroup as unfairly deprived compared to other groups (i.e., group relative deprivation) might be key to explaining the situation in terms of secret, intentional wrongdoings. Furthermore, individuals high in national narcissism (i.e., a perceived lack of recognition of the ingroup's greatness), may be especially sensitive to this dynamic. Three pilot studies (N = 1237) attested the robustness of the link between group relative deprivation and conspiracy beliefs. Then, Study 1 (N = 812) revealed that the effect of group relative deprivation on conspiracy beliefs was moderated by national narcissism. In Study 2 (N = 728), we found effects of induced national narcissism and group relative deprivation on conspiracy beliefs in a fictitious setting. Study 3 (N = 846) replicated the moderation of national narcissism on the link between group relative deprivation and conspiracy beliefs at the cross‐sectional level. Overall, these studies provide evidence that conspiracy beliefs in reaction to group relative deprivation are especially likely among collective narcissists. We discuss the scapegoating function of conspiracy beliefs during crises.
Preparation of porous plate from municipal solid waste incineration fly ash and its application in a biofilm batch reactor
Authors: Wang Jing , Liu Han , Sun Chang‐Jung , Fang Weicheng
Published: July 2024

The reutilization of municipal solid waste incineration (MSWI) fly ash is a prominent area of research. This study focused on creating fly ash porous plate filler (FAPPF) by using techniques, such as water extraction, milling, component adjustment, and sintering. The produced FAPPF was then used to cultivate a biofilm for wastewater treatment. The key parameters included a two‐stage water extraction process with a 5:1 liquid‐to‐solid ratio; milling for 1, 2, and 4 h; component adjustment using waste glass powder, milled fly ash, palygorskite powder, and peanut shell powder at a 7:1:1:1 mass ratio; and sintering temperatures ranging from 700 to 1000°C. For the biofilm cultivation and treatment, this study employed semisimulated sewage in a sequencing biofilm batch reactor system. The results revealed the FAPPF had no heavy metal leaching, with a porosity of 48.53%–54.68%. Approximately 90% of its composition was derived from waste materials. Furthermore, scanning electron microscopy microanalysis revealed an internally stable liquid‐phase sintering structure. Finally, a mature biofilm developed in 21 days, achieving maximum removal rates of 95.48% for chemical oxygen demand and 78.4% for ammonia nitrogen. This article confirms the sustainable recycling potential of MSWI fly ash.
Research on coordinated control strategy for braking energy recovery of pure electric vehicles based on ESC
Authors: Li Min , Niu Xinbo , Cheng Yu
Published: July 2024

Taking a rear‐wheel drive pure electric vehicle as the research object, considering the safety during braking and improving energy recovery rate, a study was conducted on the distribution strategy of front and rear axle braking force. During the braking process, the feedback braking force of the motor and the hydraulic braking force with an electronic stability controller (ESC) were coordinated and controlled, to ensure that the total required braking force was met. A fuzzy logic controller has been designed, with three variables of battery state of charge, vehicle speed, and braking intensity as inputs, and a modified motor braking ratio as output variable to prevent wheel lockup. Using Cruise software, a co‐simulation model was established with Amesim and Simulink, and simulation validation was conducted on the braking process and cycling conditions. The simulation results showed that the brake recovery strategy based on fuzzy control can effectively improve the vehicle's control performance and energy recovery rate compared to the Economic Commission of Europe regulation. The NEDC (New European Driving Cycle) working condition improved by 10.41% and the CLTC‐P (China Light‐duty Vehicle Test Cycle‐passenger) working condition improved by 10.57%. Effectively improving power consumption per 100 km, NEDC decreased by 1.81% and CLTC‐P decreased by 2.62%.
In vitro, in vivo, and in silico evidence for the use of plant pigments betalains as potential nutraceuticals against Alzheimer's disease
Authors: Martínez‐Rodríguez Pedro , Henarejos‐Escudero Paula , Hernández‐García Samanta , Sánchez‐Ferrer Álvaro , Gandía‐Herrero Fernando
Published: July 2024

Anti‐amyloidogenic properties of plant pigments betalains as potential nutraceuticals against Alzheimer's disease have been screened using 24 pure molecules. Twenty‐two betalains reduced amyloid aggregation in vitro, eight of them up to 100%, with IC50 values in the micromolar range. Atomic force and transmission electron microscopy images showed the typical fibrils associated with Alzheimer's disease and how betalains avoid its formation. Neuroprotection after ingestion was supported by in vivo experiments with Caenorhabditis elegans. Indoline‐betacyanin was the most effective molecule by significantly improving the chemotactic behavior of the CL2355 strain, a model of Alzheimer's disease. Furthermore, in‐depth molecular docking analyses revealed that the pigments interact with the N‐terminal region of the amyloid peptide. This work is the most comprehensive study in the field and provides in vitro, in vivo, and in silico evidence for the use of betalains as nutraceuticals of relevance in the prevention of Alzheimer's disease.