bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
An Anode‐Free Potassium‐Metal Battery Enabled by a Directly Grown Graphene‐Modulated Aluminum Current Collector
Authors: Zhao Yu , Liu Bingzhi , Yi Yuyang , Lian Xueyu , Wang Menglei , Li Shuo , Yang Xianzhong , Sun Jingyu
Published: May 2022

Potassium (K)‐metal batteries have emerged as a promising energy‐storage device owing to abundant K resources. An anode‐free architecture that bypasses the need for anode host materials can deliver an elevated energy density. However, the poor efficiency of K plating/stripping on potassiophobic anode current collectors results in rapid K inventory loss and a short cycle life. Herein, commercial Al foils are decorated with an ultrathin graphene‐modified layer (Al@G) through roll‐to‐roll plasma‐enhanced chemical vapor deposition. By harnessing strong adhesion (10.52 N m−1) and a high surface energy (66.6 mJ m−2), the designed Al@G structure ensures a highly smooth and ordered K plating/stripping process. Consequently, during K‐metal plating/stripping, Al@G can operate at a current density of up to 4.0 mA cm−2 and cyclic capacity of up to 4.0 mAh cm−2, with an ultralong lifespan of up to 1000 h at 0.5 mA cm−2 and stable cycling of up to 750 h under periodic current fluctuations of 0.1–2.0 mA cm−2. In addition, a novel anode‐free K‐metal full‐cell prototype enabled by Al@G anode current collectors is constructed, demonstrating ameliorative cyclic stability.
Terbium‐Doped and Dual‐Passivated γ‐CsPb(I1−xBrx)3 Inorganic Perovskite Solar Cells with Improved Air Thermal Stability and High Efficiency
Authors: Mali Sawanta S. , Patil Jyoti V. , Rondiya Sachin R. , Dzade Nelson Y. , Steele Julian A. , Nazeeruddin Mohammad Khaja , Patil Pramod S. , Hong Chang Kook
Published: May 2022

Realizing photoactive and thermodynamically stable all‐inorganic perovskite solar cells (PSCs) remains a challenging task within halide perovskite photovoltaic (PV) research. Here, a dual strategy for realizing efficient inorganic mixed halide perovskite PV devices based on a terbium‐doped solar absorber, that is, CsPb1−xTbxI2Br, is reported, which undertakes a bulk and surface passivation treatment in the form of CsPb1−xTbxI2Br quantum dots, to maintain a photoactive γ‐phase under ambient conditions and with significantly improved operational stability. Devices fabricated from these air‐processed perovskite thin films exhibit an air‐stable power conversion efficiency (PCE) that reaches 17.51% (small‐area devices) with negligible hysteresis and maintains >90% of the initial efficiency when operating for 600 h under harsh environmental conditions, stemming from the combined effects of the dual‐protection strategy. This approach is further examined within large‐area PSC modules (19.8 cm2 active area) to realize 10.94% PCE and >30 days ambient stability, as well as within low‐bandgap γ‐CsPb0.95Tb0.05I2.5Br0.5 (Eg = 1.73 eV) materials, yielding 19.01% (18.43% certified) PCE.
Helical Liquid Crystal Elastomer Miniature Robot with Photocontrolled Locomotion
Authors: Zhao Tonghui , Wang Jiao , Fan Yangyang , Dou Wenchao
Published: May 2022

Miniature liquid crystal elastomer (LCE) based soft robots with multidirectional locomotion ability and multifunctionality have captured the extensive interest of researchers for a wide range of potential applications. Generally, the subsistent actuation modes for most LCE soft robots present several simple shape‐changing under external stimuli. Although elaborately designed for complicated structures, they still achieve limited mobility, restricting the practical applications severely. Herein, a photo‐controllable helical soft robot (PHSR) prepared with near‐infrared (NIR) light active LCE is reported. The 3D helical architecture of PHSR is constructed by manually twisting the LCE strip. The irradiation of NIR light transforms the basic reversible shape deformations (shrinking/elongating, winding/unwinding, and bending) of PHSR to macroscopic photomobility. As the torsional orientation of mesogens generated by manually twisting process, the rolling direction can be controlled by the scanning direction of the NIR spot. The flexible steering motion is in favor of performing various tasks such as traversing gap, climbing, and outputting mechanical work, suggesting that PHSR with directional photomobility and multifunction can be extended to a variety of applications.
Dual‐Mode Vasodilator M119 Delivery to Hair Follicle via Dissolving Microneedle for Advanced Alopecia Treatment
Authors: Kim Youseong , Ryu Yeong Chan , Min Hye Su , Yang Huisuk , Nam Jeehye , Lee Chisong , Um Daniel Junmin , Kim Miji , Atzei Paola , Francisco Rita de Brito , Naef Reto , Choi Kang‐Yell , Jung Hyungil
Published: May 2022

Finasteride, the most widely used oral alopecia drug, shows several side effects such as hypoactive sexual dysfunction or depression, whereas the topical drug minoxidil demonstrates unsatisfactory efficacy. Thus, there is an increasing need for new alopecia drugs and alternative delivery systems for future alopecia treatment. Researchers have developed dissolving microneedle (DMN), a transdermal drug delivery system, which can be used with minimal invasion. However, DMN has limited application for the alopecia treatment owing to its unsuccessful implantation on the hairy scalp. Here, it is suggested that TOP‐M119 (M119), a novel drug acting as a vasodilator in the scalp, and M119‐loaded DMN with a specially designed shape can be used for the alopecia treatment. This M119‐loaded DMN system is delivered using a newly designed applicator that supports patchless scalp implantation of DMN by microsized pillars designed to prevent accidental skin insertion. Enhanced hair follicle targeting drug delivery and superior alopecia treatment efficacy of specially designed shaped DMN and M119 has been demonstrated through in vitro and ex vivo studies. Moreover, M119‐loaded DMN system shows enhanced in vivo efficacy in mouse skin and through expression markers related to hair growth, such as β‐catenin, proliferating cell nuclear antigen, MECA 32, and versican.
Effects of moisture contents in incorporated residues and soil on net nitrogen mineralization in a laboratory study
Authors: Santiago Suzette , Geisseler Daniel
Published: May 2022

In Mediterranean climates, winters are mild, and decomposition of crop residues generally continues during the rainy winter season. The objective of this study was to determine whether letting crop residues dry before incorporation slows down net nitrogen (N) mineralization and reduces the risk of nitrate losses with rain during the winter months. Incubation experiments were performed with processing tomato (Solanum lycopersicum L.) and broccoli (Brassica oleracea L. var. italica) residues. Three residue moisture treatments, ranging from fresh to air‐dry residues, and three soil moisture levels were included in the study. Net N mineralization was observed during the first week in the broccoli treatments, whereas tomato residues led to net N immobilization. Increasing moisture of incorporated residues increased net N mineralization or immobilization. An exception was the fresh broccoli residue, which resulted in a lower net N mineralization rate than the drier residues, likely due to anaerobic microsites created by high microbial activity. The moisture content of the residues only had a short‐term effect on N turnover. Over the 12 wk of the incubations, the incorporation of both residues resulted in net N mineralization when compared with the unamended control. Nitrogen mineralization increased as soil moisture content increased and approached field capacity. These results indicate that residue moisture at the time of incorporation will not affect N mineralization beyond the initial weeks.
RETRACTED: Protection mechanism and empirical study on the endangered status of Pinus kwangtungensis
Authors: Wang Jun , Cui Guofa
Published: May 2022

In this paper, we take Pinus kwangtungensis as an example, setting the sample plots along the altitudinal gradient in the same distribution area, and the indicators such as diameter at breast height (DBH), tree height, and canopy of different trees in the community were recorded. The spatial pattern and the average survival pressure of P. kwangtungensis populations are analyzed and calculated on a gradient of different altitudes. The results are as follows: (a) The altitude and temperature affect the spatial pattern of the community when aggregated at mid‐ and high altitudes; however, the low altitude is aggregated or uniform, and with increasing altitude, the population aggregation intensity increases. While at a certain height, the aggregation intensity decreased, the intra‐ and inter‐species competition decreased, and the survival pressure decreased; (b) The average survival pressure index of P. kwangtungensis showed a decreasing trend along the rising altitudinal gradient (R2 = 0.31, p = .026), and several plants will continue to migrate to high altitudes for better survival; (c) The average survival pressure index of P. kwangtungensis population was different at the same altitude gradient; (d) For the artificial forest of P. kwangtungensis, the average survival pressure index was 50. It is threatened by the competition tree and needs to be strictly protected. It is necessary to prune or selectively cut the competitive tree species in time. In a word, we figure out that “competition driving” is existent in species, and we could try to verify the existence of the hypothesis.
Diazaphospholene‐Catalyzed Radical Reactions from Aryl Halides**
Authors: Riley Robert D. , Huchenski Blake S. N. , Bamford Karlee L. , Speed Alexander W. H.
Published: May 2022

Diazaphospholenes are widely used as hydride transfer catalysts, however their use in radical reactions is a recently emerging area. Here, we show prior stoichiometric radical cyclizations of aryl iodides mediated by diazaphospholene hydrides are made catalytic by the combination of phenylsilane and alkali metal salts to regenerate the diazaphospholene hydride. The scope was expanded to include aryl bromides, which benefit from visible light irradiation. Twenty one substrates underwent cyclization, including a dearomative cyclization. Extension to six intermolecular radical hydroarylations with arenes, thiophenes, and a pyridine was also accomplished.
Selective Reduction of Secondary Amides to Imines Catalysed by Schwartz's Reagent**
Authors: Donnelly Liam J. , Berthet Jean‐Claude , Cantat Thibault
Published: May 2022

The partial reduction of amides is a challenging transformation that must overcome the intrinsic stability of the amide bond and exhibit high chemoselective control to avoid overreduction to amine products. To address this challenge, we describe a zirconium‐catalysed synthesis of imines by the reductive deoxygenation of secondary amides. This reaction exploits the excellent chemoselectivity of Schwartz's reagent (Cp2Zr(H)Cl) and utilises (EtO)3SiH as a mild stoichiometric reductant to enable catalyst turnover. The reaction generally proceeds with high yields (19 examples, 51 to 95 % yield) and tolerates a variety of functional groups (alkene, ester, nitro, etc.). Stoichiometric mechanistic investigations suggest the regeneration of the active [Zr]−H catalyst is achieved through the metathesis of Si−H and Zr−OR σ‐bonds.
Aggregation behavior of symmetric poly(n‐butyl acrylate)‐block‐poly(acrylic acid) on subphases of different ionic strengths
Authors: Yang Shicheng , Wen Gangyao , Pispas Stergios , You Kun
Published: May 2022

Influences of subphase pH value and ionic strength (NaCl concentration) on the aggregation behavior of a symmetric diblock polyelectrolyte poly(n‐butyl acrylate)‐block‐poly(acrylic acid) (PnBA‐b‐PAA) at the air/water interface and its Langmuir–Blodgett (LB) films were studied. With the increase of subphase pH value, surface pressure–molecular area isotherms of PnBA‐b‐PAA monolayers shift toward smaller area due to the gradually enhanced ionization and underwater solubility of hydrophilic PAA chains. All the initial LB films transferred from different subphases with/without NaCl (before monolayer compression) exhibit the densely mixed structures of worm‐like aggregates and circular micelles, which indicates that the aggregate formation belongs to the spontaneous mechanism. The micelle core diameters in the LB films increase with the increase of subphase pH value, owing to the enhanced PAA chain solubility and PnBA block aggregation. Under acidic condition, micelle cores are slightly larger upon addition of NaCl due to the enhanced underwater solubility of the uncharged PAA chains triggered by their possible interaction with Cl−. Under neutral/alkaline conditions, micelle cores are also larger upon addition of NaCl, which is attributed to the electrostatic shielding effect of Na+. Upon compression, the LB films prepared under neutral/alkaline conditions exhibit the predominantly large circular micelles.
Multidimensional Immune Profiling of Cutaneous Lupus Erythematosus In Vivo Stratified by Patient Response to Antimalarials
Authors: Patel Jay , Vazquez Thomas , Chin Felix , Keyes Emily , Yan Daisy , Diaz DeAnna , Grinnell Madison , Sharma Meena , Li Yubin , Feng Rui , Sprow Grant , Dan Josh , Werth Victoria P.
Published: May 2022

Objective

The pathogenesis of cutaneous lupus erythematosus (CLE) is multifactorial, and CLE is difficult to treat due to the heterogeneity of inflammatory processes among patients. Antimalarials such as hydroxychloroquine (HCQ) and quinacrine (QC) have long been used as first‐line systemic therapy; however, many patients do not respond to treatment with antimalarials and require systemic immunosuppressants that produce undesirable side effects. Given the complexity and the unpredictability of responses to antimalarial treatments in CLE patients, we sought to characterize the immunologic profile of patients with CLE stratified by subsequent treatment outcomes to identify potential biomarkers of inducible response.

Methods

We performed mass cytometry imaging of multiple immune cell types and inflammation markers in treatment‐naive skin biopsy samples from 48 patients with CLE to identify baseline immunophenotypes that may predict the response to antimalarial therapy. Patients were stratified according to their response to treatment with antimalarials, as HCQ responders, QC responders, or nonresponders.

Results

HCQ responders demonstrated increased CD4+ T cells compared to the QC responder group. Patients in the nonresponder group were found to have decreased Treg cells compared to QC responders and increased central memory T cells compared to HCQ responders. QC responders expressed increased phosphorylated stimulator of interferon genes (pSTING) and interferon‐κ (IFNκ) compared to HCQ responders. Phosphorylated STING and IFNκ were found to be localized to conventional dendritic cells (cDCs), and the intensity of pSTING and IFNκ staining was positively correlated with the number of cDCs on a tissue and cellular level. Neighborhood analysis revealed decreased regulatory cell interactions in nonresponder patients. Hierarchical clustering revealed that nonresponder patients could be further differentiated based on expression of pSTAT2, pSTAT3, pSTAT4, pSTAT5, phosphorylated interferon regulatory factor 3 (pIRF3), granzyme B, pJAK2, interleukin‐4 (IL‐4), IL‐17, and IFNγ.

Conclusion

These findings indicate differential immune cell compositions between patients with CLE, offering guidance for future research on precision‐based medicine and treatment response.
Self‐assembled Fluorescent Nanoparticles with Tunable LCST Behavior in Water
Authors: Xiao Tangxin , Ren Dongxing , Diao Kai , Wang Jie , Li Zheng‐Yi , Sun Xiao‐Qiang , Wang Leyong
Published: May 2022

The development of stimuli‐responsive fluorescent materials in water based on organic molecule has drawn significant interest. Herein, we designed and synthesized an amphiphilic molecule M containing a fixed tetraphenylethylene moiety (FTPE) as hydrophobic part and tri(ethylene glycol) (TEG) chains as hydrophilic part. Notably, the FTPE moiety is aggregation‐induced emission (AIE) active, while the TEG chains are thermo‐responsive. M can self‐assemble into fluorescent nanoparticles (NPs) in water, which showed lower critical solution temperature (LCST) behavior. Moreover, its clouding point can be reversibly tuned upon the concentration variation. Interestingly, the NPs can be acted as a fluorescence thermometer in aqueous media owing to their unique AIE and LCST behaviors. Our work herein not only provides an integration strategy to construct stimuli‐responsive fluorescent materials but also shows great potential in biological applications including bioimaging and biosensors.
Opportunities and challenges for the application of biodiesel as automotive fuel in the 21st century
Authors: Hassan Tafsirul , Rahman Md. Mizanur , Rahman Md. Arafat , Nabi Md Nurun
Published: May 2022

Depletion of fossil fuel and massive emissions of hazardous greenhouse gases are prompting many researchers to focus on greener renewable fuel such as biodiesel, which has the potential to replace petrodiesel partially. This review covers various aspects related to biodiesel feedstock and its effects on biodiesel characteristics, biodiesel production methods, blending techniques, biodiesel properties, combustion, engine performance, and emission analysis, the effects of different additives on biodiesel characteristics, and some challenges associated with biodiesel. Moreover, different relevant empirical correlations of biodiesel properties and combustion parameters are presented. Despite alkali catalysis being the most adopted transesterification process, lipase catalysis and heterogeneous catalysis are potential processes for future biodiesel production from low‐cost feedstock. Biodiesel has higher viscosity, density, flash point, cetane number, and pour point while having low heating value in comparison with petrodiesel. Most studies conducted on diesel engine led to a reduction in brake power, brake thermal efficiency, carbon monoxide, sulfur dioxide, particulate matter, and unburned hydrocarbons, and increased brake specific fuel consumption and oxides of nitrogen are associated with biodiesel compared to petrodiesel. In brief, biodiesel is comparable to petrodiesel. However, before there is a large‐scale application of biodiesel in the automotive sector it has to overcome some challenges such as its compatibility with engine components, its instability, its effect on engine wear, deposit formation, and clogging of fuel filters and injectors. Increased focus should also be given to second‐generation biodiesel over first‐generation biodiesel because second‐generation biodiesel can offset production costs, reduce deforestation, and solve the food versus fuel problem. © 2022 Society of Chemical Industry and John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Can intellectual capital contribute to financial and non‐financial performances during normal and crisis situations?
Authors: Lestari Novita Indri Garini , Adhariani Desi
Published: May 2022

The contribution of intellectual capital (IC) on financial performance have been found in previous studies but whether IC can also be utilised to improve non‐financial performance has been understudied; let alone the contributions in different economic conditions (normal and crisis periods). This study aims to provide empirical findings to answer these issues by defining non‐financial performance in terms of the environmental, social, and governance (ESG) performance and COVID‐19 pandemic to represent the crisis. Non‐financial companies listed on stock exchanges in the Southeast Asia countries that are member of ASEAN (Association of Southeast Asian Nations) were selected as the samples for the research period of 2016–2020. The results show that the IC has a positive association with financial performance but a negative relationship with ESG performance. With the COVID‐19 pandemic as the moderating variable, the results show that the pandemic period is not found to moderate the effect of the IC on financial performance and ESG performance. These results indicate that under normal conditions prior to the economic crisis caused by COVID‐19, companies in Southeast Asia prioritised the use of IC to improve financial performance. Meanwhile, during the COVID‐19 pandemic, companies in the region have not utilised IC to improve their financial and non‐financial performance. The findings that IC affect ESG performance negatively need a serious attention amid the increasing awareness of sustainability and the expected role of corporate in the achievement of the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs).
RLP‐VIO: Robust and lightweight plane‐based visual‐inertial odometry for augmented reality
Authors: Li Jinyu , Zhou Xin , Yang Bangbang , Zhang Guofeng , Wang Xun , Bao Hujun
Published: May 2022

We propose RLP‐VIO—a robust and lightweight monocular visual‐inertial odometry system using multiplane priors. With planes extracted from the point cloud, visual‐inertial‐plane PnP uses the plane information for fast localization. Depth estimation is susceptible to degenerated motion, so the planes are expanded in a reprojection consensus‐based way robust to depth errors. For sensor fusion, our sliding‐window optimization uses a novel structureless plane‐distance error cost, which prevents the fill‐in effect that poisons the BA problem's sparsity and permits the use of a smaller sliding window while maintaining good accuracy. The total computational cost is further reduced with our modified marginalization strategy. To further improve the tracking robustness, the landmark depths are constrained using the planes during degenerated motion. The whole system is parallelized with a three‐stage pipeline. Under controlled environments, this parallelization runs deterministically and produces consistent results. The resulting VIO system is tested on widely used datasets and compared with several state‐of‐the‐art systems. Our system achieves competitive accuracy and works robustly even on long and challenging sequences. To demonstrate the effectiveness of the proposed system, we also show the AR application running on mobile devices in real‐time.
(+)‐ and (−)‐Xanthostones A–D: Four Pairs of Enantiomeric Cinnamoyl‐β‐Triketone Derivatives from Xanthostemon chrysanthus
Authors: Zhan Qiong , Wu Yan‐Yi , Liu Fen , Li Ni‐Ping , Zhou Xun , Wang Chao‐Qun , Wu Yan , Zhao Wei , Ye Wen‐Cai , Wang Lei
Published: May 2022

Four pairs of cinnamoyl‐β‐triketone derivative enantiomers, (+)‐ and (−)‐xanthostones A–D ((+)‐ and (−)‐1–4), were isolated from Xanthostemon chrysanthus. Compounds 1 and 2 feature a new rearranged cinnamoyl‐phloroglucinol scaffold fused with a cinnamyl‐β‐triketone framework. Compounds 1, 3, and 4 are the first examples of natural products with a peculiar phenethyl‐pyranone acid unit. Their structures with absolute configurations were determined by spectroscopic data, X‐ray diffraction analysis and electronic circular dichroism (ECD) calculation. Interestingly, these novel compounds showed a tautomeric behavior in solution, which was revealed by NMR spectroscopy and density functional theory calculation. A plausible biosynthetic pathway toward xanthostones A–D was proposed. Additionally, the anti‐inflammatory and antibacterial activities of xanthostones A–D were evaluated.
A case of widespread unilateral subcutaneous sarcoidosis with ocular and pulmonary involvements with seropositivity for anti‐doublestrand‐DNAantibody and rheumatoid factor: A revisit of gap between humoral autoimmune abnormalities and clinical findings
Authors: Oyama Noritaka , Baba Natsuki , Ido Hideki , Hasegawa Minoru
Published: May 2022

We present a middle‐aged female Japanese case of subcutaneous sarcoidosis on the unilateral limb with pulmonary and eye involvements, who was seropositive for anti‐double strand DNA antibody and rheumatoid factor. The oculocutaneous and pulmonary lesions were subsided with persisted serological abnormalities. This paper provides updating evidence for the pathogenic significance of humoral autoimmune background in the disease.
Regression Modeling for the Prediction of Hydrogen Atom Transfer Barriers in Cytochrome P450 from Semi‐empirically Derived Descriptors
Authors: Gingrich Phillip W. , Siegel Justin B. , Tantillo Dean J.
Published: May 2022

The calculation of hydrogen atom transfer (HAT) barriers within the cytochrome P450 catalytic cycle is of central importance for the prediction of metabolites formed from medicinally relevant compounds. We report the accurate estimation of hydrogen atom transfer barriers using inexpensive descriptors computed for a panel of 21 compounds. By a simple univariate linear regression between barriers previously computed using density functional theory (DFT) and newly computed “frozen radical” bond dissociation energies using the GFN2‐xTB method, a mean absolute error of 1 kcal mol−1is achieved. Other affordable levels of theory are studied to assess differences in performance and computational cost. Multiple linear regression incorporating additional descriptors using GFN2‐xTB is shown to predict HAT barriers with mean absolute errors of 0.82 kcal mol−1. With computing times in milliseconds on modest computing hardware, this systematic approach is accessible and extensible to large scale screening workflows.
Water governance on the streets of Scotland: How frontline public workers encounter and respond to tensions in delivering water services with communities
Authors: Holstead Kirsty , Russell Shona , Waylen Kerry
Published: May 2022

We explore the activities of frontline workers situated in public bodies responsible for water service provision. We use Scotland as a case study. Here, like in other parts of Europe, there are greater expectations and responsibilities placed on communities to tackle water concerns. In this context, frontline workers are required to collaborate closely with communities to encourage their involvement in public services whilst being more attentive to their needs and concerns. Doing so brings the relationship between frontline workers and communities into focus. In water services, a research gap exists as to how frontline workers interact with communities and influence engagement. Although frontline workers in water services have a highly influential role, evidence of how they perform their daily duties remains limited. This gap hinders understanding the challenges that frontline workers experience and how they can be overcome. Responding to this gap, we look to administration and policy studies, where a tradition of studying frontline workers exists in diverse public policy areas. Using the concepts of biasing, aligning and negotiating, we explore the activities of frontline workers. Using interview and observational data, we demonstrate how they (i) bias services to limit and control engagement, (ii) align resources and people to enhance opportunities for engagement and (iii) negotiate with colleagues and communities to deliver goals. We unpack the role of frontline workers and explore their pertinent position in water governance as they work inside and outside their organisations. We finish with conclusions and future avenues for research.
The interaction between silica flat substrate and functional group–modified nanoparticles
Authors: He Xiaohan , Deng Luyu , Shi Liuyong , Deng Yongbo , Zhou Teng , Wen Liping
Published: May 2022

Inspired by nature, the research of functionalized nanoparticles and nanodevices has been in‐depth developed in recent years. In this paper, we theoretically studied the interaction between functional polyelectrolyte brush layer–modified nanoparticles and a silica flat substrate. Based on the Poisson–Nernst–Planck equations, the mathematical model is established. The changes of the volume charge density and electric field energy density when the nanoparticle interacts with the silica flat substrate under multi‐ions regulation were investigated. The results show that when there is a strong interaction between the silica flat substrate and nanoparticles, such as the distances between the nanoparticle and silica flat substrate, which are 2 or 5 nm, the isoelectric point shift under the influence of silica flat substrate and the total charge density in the brush layer is jointly controlled by the cations in the solution and the volume charge density of the brush layer. With the increase of the distances between the nanoparticle and silica flat substrate, the regulation of the volume charge density of the brush layer dominates. These results will provide guidance for the movement mechanism of functionalized nanoparticles in silica nanochannels.
Stripy zinc array with preferential crystal plane for the ultra‐long lifespan of zinc metal anodes for zinc ion batteries
Authors: Su Ting‐Ting , Wang Ke , Chi Bing‐Yu , Ren Wen‐Feng , Sun Run‐Cang
Published: May 2022

Rechargeable zinc (Zn) batteries have been regarded as a potential alternative for energy storage instrument, but the poor life‐span of Zn metal anodes restrain their commercial application. In this work, stripy Zn array (ZnSA) with preferential (002) crystal plane was designed and fabricated through the facile treatment with concentrated phosphoric acid. The depth of stripy array and the content of (002) plane were controlled through the optimization of etching time. The synergistic effect of stripy morphology and preferential crystal plane can increase the electroactive surface area, suppress the corrosion and hydrogen evolution of aqueous electrolyte, induce the horizontal growth along with basal (002) plane, and inhibit the formation of Zn dendrites. The as‐synthesized ZnSA electrodes can achieve ultra‐long lifespan of 2500 h at the current density of 2 mA cm−2 with a constant capacity of 2 mAh cm−2 and still maintain stable cycling of 1200 and 1400 h even at the higher current density of 10 mA cm−2 and plating/stripping depth of 5 mAh cm−2, respectively. This work proposes a facile and effective strategy to improve electrochemical performance of metallic Zn anodes and contributes to the commercial application of Zn ion batteries.

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Doping metal–organic framework composites to antibacterial air filter development for quality control of indoor air
Authors: Zendehdel Rezvan , Amini Mostafa M. , Hajibabaei Majid , Nasiri Mohammad Javad , Jafari Mohammad Javad , Alavijeh Masoumeh Karimi
Published: May 2022

Building airtightness for acquiring greater energy efficiency have impacted indoor air quality. The control of pollution requires air filtration. Bioaerosols serve as an essential quality indicator of indoor air. The contamination of bioaerosols is a filtration barrier. The present study proposes a novel metal–organic framework (MOFs) antimicrobial air filter. This study is the first to employ Ag/MOFs/IMI in order to build an air filter for the deactivation and removal of indoor airborne microbes. The media of the Ag/MOFs/IMI/EPA filter was fabricated using the dip‐coating of Ag/MOFs/IMI by imidazole and silver NPs. The deactivation and removal efficiency of the Ag/MOFs/IMI/EPA filter was assessed by bioaerosols, including “Escherichia coli” (E. coli) and “Staphylococcus aureus” (S. aureus) within a closed‐loop chamber at the RH degrees of 30% and 70%. The findings suggested that the Ag/MOFs/IMI filter's removal efficiency by nearly 17.88% without significant increase in pressure drop in comparison to the raw EPA filter for the bioaerosol of S. aureus. Furthermore, the Ag/MOFs/IMI filter media's deactivation efficiency under 3% loading was obtained to be 95.62% ± 1.2% and 99.4% ± 3.25% for the bioaerosol of S. aureus at an RH of 30% and 70%, respectively. Moreover, the E. coli deactivation efficiency under an Ag/MOFs/IMI loading of 1% was found to be 68.33% ± 1.98% and 96.27% ± 3.04% for an RH of 30% and 70%, respectively. The findings indicated the Ag/MOFs/IMI filter's media to be able to effectively inactivate bioaerosols and prevent their spread from the air filter into the indoor place. Furthermore, these findings provide a pioneer contribution to the antibacterial quality development of commercial filters.
Analysis of Planning Strategies for Sustainable Electricity Generation in Kenya from 2015 to 2035
Authors: Maina Alex , Makathimo Mwenda , Adwek George , Opiyo Charles
Published: May 2022

This research entails the simulation of three possible power scenarios for Kenya from 2015 to 2035 using low emissions analysis platform (LEAP). These scenarios represent the unfolding future electricity generation that will fully satisfy the demand while considering the following: energy security, power generation cost, and impacts on the environment. These scenarios are reference scenario (RS), coal scenario (CS), nuclear scenario (NS), and more renewable scenario (MRS). The findings obtained reveals that the most sustainable scenario while comparing the costs was found to be the coal scenario with a net present value (NPV) of $30 052.67 million though it has the highest greenhouse gases (GHGs) emissions. However, the more renewable scenario (MRS) has the least GHGs emissions but is found to be the most expensive scenario to implement with an NPV of $30 733.07 million.
Statistical methods for Mendelian models with multiple genes and cancers
Authors: Liang Jane W. , Idos Gregory E. , Hong Christine , Gruber Stephen B. , Parmigiani Giovanni , Braun Danielle
Published: May 2022

Risk evaluation to identify individuals who are at greater risk of cancer as a result of heritable pathogenic variants is a valuable component of individualized clinical management. Using principles of Mendelian genetics, Bayesian probability theory, and variant‐specific knowledge, Mendelian models derive the probability of carrying a pathogenic variant and developing cancer in the future, based on family history. Existing Mendelian models are widely employed, but are generally limited to specific genes and syndromes. However, the upsurge of multigene panel germline testing has spurred the discovery of many new gene–cancer associations that are not presently accounted for in these models. We have developed PanelPRO, a flexible, efficient Mendelian risk prediction framework that can incorporate an arbitrary number of genes and cancers, overcoming the computational challenges that arise because of the increased model complexity. We implement an 11‐gene, 11‐cancer model, the largest Mendelian model created thus far, based on this framework. Using simulations and a clinical cohort with germline panel testing data, we evaluate model performance, validate the reverse‐compatibility of our approach with existing Mendelian models, and illustrate its usage. Our implementation is freely available for research use in the PanelPRO R package.
Review of carbon capture absorbents for CO2utilization
Authors: Chai Slyvester Yew Wang , Ngu Lock Hei , How Bing Shen
Published: May 2022

Carbon capture technologies have been recognized as a potential alternative to alleviate global warming. Carbon capture and storage (CCS) is preferred over carbon conversion and utilization (CCU) due to its lower operating costs and higher CO2reduction capability. Nevertheless, CO2utilization has the potential to be more economical if value‐added products are produced. This highlights the importance of assessing CO2utilization routes and alternatives in carbon management. This review paper aims to evaluate the carbon utilization potential of major CO2‐capturing absorbents including amine, hydroxide, ionic liquid, amino acids and carbonate absorbents. All absorbents show potential application for CO2utilization except for ionic liquids (ILs) due to their unclear CO2capture mechanisms. Absorbents that require a desorption process for CO2utilization include MEA, MDEA, K2CO3and Na2CO3due to their high absorption capacity. Industries have utilized the desorbed CO2as chemical feedstocks, enhanced oil recovery (EOR) and mineral carbonation. For hydroxide absorbents and CaCO3, desorption of CO2is unnecessary as the absorbed CO2can be directly utilized to produce construction materials. Apart from that, the incorporation of advanced technologies and business models introduced by the fourth industrial revolution are plausible considerations to accelerate the development of carbon capture technologies. © 2022 Society of Chemical Industry and John Wiley & Sons, Ltd.
Geochronology and petrogenesis of granitoids and associated mafic enclaves from Ghohroud in the Urumieh–Dokhtar Magmatic Arc (Iran): Evidence for magma mixing during the closure of the Neotethyan Ocean
Authors: Khaksar Tayebeh , Rashidnejad‐Omran Nematollah , Li Shuang‐Qing , Song Shu‐Guang , Kananian Ali , Chen Fukun , Li Su
Published: May 2022

The Ghohroud granitoids (GG), containing mafic microgranular enclaves (MMEs) are located in the central part of the Urumieh‐Dokhtar Magmatic Arc (UDMA) in central Iran. They are associated with the subduction‐related magmatism in the Alpine‐Himalayan orogenic belt. The GG are comprised of a variety of intermediate and felsic rocks, including tonalite, granodiorite, granite, diorite porphyry and monzodiorite. The MMEs are gabbroic diorite and tonalite in composition and characterized by a fine‐grained hypidiomorphic microgranular texture with occasional chilled margins. They show rounded, sharp or irregular contact with the host granitoids. The occurrences of quartz, K‐feldspar and corroded plagioclase indicate that MMEs are the products of mixing between mantle and crust‐derived magmas. New ages of zircon U–Pb dating reveal that the GG in the Kashan area emplaced at ca. 19–17 Ma (Burdigalian). All the samples of MMEs and granitoid host rocks in this study are metaluminous and calc‐alkaline with I‐type affinities. They are enriched in light rare earth elements (LREEs) and show slight negative Eu anomalies (Eu/Eu* = 0.36–0.95). These features in a combination with the relative depletion in Nb, Ta, Ti and P, indicate the granitoids and MMEs are closely associated with subduction‐related magmas at an active continental margin. The host rocks yield relatively homogeneous isotopic compositions of initial 87Sr/86Sr ratios ranging from 0.706036 to 0.707055, εNd(t) values varying from −2.25 to 0.8, and the Nd model ages (TDM) vary in a limited range of 0.70–0.96 Ga. The MMEs show similar initial 87Sr/86Sr ratios (0.706420–0.707366), εNd(t) values (−1.32 to −0.27), TDM (0.68–1.09 Ga) and Pb isotopic compositions with host granitoids, which imply they attained isotopic equilibration during magma mingling and mixing. In combination with the petrographic, chemical and isotopic results, we suggest that the origin of MMEs and their host rocks were related to the interaction between crust‐derived melts and mantle‐derived mafic magmas. The magma‐mixing event possibly occurred during the transition from subduction to collision in the UDMA along with the closure of the Neotethyan ocean.
Safety evaluation of mutagenicity, genotoxicity, and cytotoxicity of Lactobacillus spp. isolates as probiotic candidates
Authors: Darbandi Atieh , Mirkalantari Shiva , Golmoradi Zadeh Rezvan , Esghaei Maryam , Talebi Malihe , Kakanj Maryam
Published: May 2022

Background

Probiotics promote a healthy balance of gut bacteria and have many beneficial effects on human digestive physiology. Although, few side effects of probiotics have been reported. This study aimed to assess the safety of five probiotic candidate Lactobacillus strains isolated from healthy individuals by examining mutagenicity, genotoxicity, and oral toxic effects.

Methods

Five selected candidate probiotic (SCPs) strains were evaluated for genotoxicity (Ames test with Salmonella typhimurium), in vitro mammalian chromosome aberration test and an in vivo mouse micronucleus assay on peripheral blood of mice. To evaluate the oral dose toxicity, BALB/c mice models were treated repeatedly (2000, 1000, and 500 mg/kg body weight /day) for 28‐days.

Results

The Ames test performed for two S. typhimurium strains TA 98 and TA100 (both in the absence and in the presence of S‐9 metabolic activation system) did not show an increase in reverse mutation because of exposure to the SCPs in any of the doses (5.0, 2.5, 1.25, 0.625, and 0.3125 mg/plate). There was no genotoxicity in the SCPs treatment in the vitro chromosome aberration assay with Chinese hamster ovary cells (CHO‐K1). In addition, none of the tested strains increased the frequency of micronucleated reticulocytes in reticulocytes, the SCPs with the studied doses caused no substantial variation in the experimental groups compared to the negative control group (p > 0.05). SCPs were not acutely toxic when administered to male and female BALB/c mice by single gavage at (2000, 1000, and 500 mg/kg b.w/day) with no mortality or clinical signs, change in body weight or macroscopic abnormalities were observed in this dose range.

Conclusion

As a result, SCPs did not induce mutagenic potential in vitro with bacterial reverse mutation, clastogenicity, and in vivo tests in the ranges of concentrations evaluated in our study.
The impact of a violent community on mental health and the benefits of a sport program for social development
Authors: Fernandes Orlando , Marra da Silva Ruy , Rego Ramos Lucas , Gama Tamires M. , Lobo Isabela , Guerra Leal Souza Gabriela , Arruda Sanchez Tiago
Published: May 2022

The aim of the present study was to evaluate the impact of a violent environment on mental health and the impact of a sport for social development (SSD) program on quality of life, mental distress symptoms, and heart rate variability (HRV). HRV and psychometric data were measured from 20 men professional athletes assisted by the SSD and 20 men living in the same violent community. The comparison of groups revealed greater sympathetic parameters of HRV, positive affect, and quality of life in the SSD group. Multiple regression analysis showed that the quality of life in the SSD group was positively predicted by positive affect, while in the control group the quality of life was negatively predicted by their history of traumatic events. Both groups reported high levels of exposure to traumatic events and posttraumatic stress symptoms. However, this study demonstrates the benefits of SSD programs in mental health.
Role of complement components in vasculitic neuropathy associated with systemic lupus erythematosus and rheumatoid arthritis
Authors: Fukami Yuki , Koike Haruki , Iijima Masahiro , Mouri Naohiro , Nishi Ryoji , Katsuno Masahisa
Published: May 2022

Introduction/Aims

The mechanism of complement‐mediated neurological injury in vasculitic neuropathy associated with systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) and rheumatoid arthritis (RA) is unknown. The current study aimed to investigate the local activation of the complement system in vasculitic neuropathy associated with SLE and RA.

Methods

We analyzed sural nerve biopsy specimens collected from patients with SLE (n = 12) and RA (n = 12). The deposition of complement components comprising the classical and lectin pathways was assessed via immunohistochemistry.

Results

The disease duration was longer in the RA group than in the SLE group (median [interquartile range]: 11.5 [5.5–31.0] and 4 [2–10] y, respectively). Complement components were found in the epineurial blood vessel walls in patients with SLE and RA, but not in controls. Deposition of the classical pathway component C1q in the blood vessel wall was more commonly observed in the SLE group (71.3% [25.6–85.8]) than in the RA group (20.1% [10.5–35.6]). As for the lectin pathway component, the incidence of ficolin‐3 deposition in the blood vessel wall was higher in the SLE group (42.3% [25.7–51.3]) than in the RA group (17.2% [10.3–26.8]). On the contrary, the mannose‐binding lectin level was higher in the RA group (37.5% [21.7–51.4]) than in the SLE group (17.8% [11.4–31.0]).

Discussion

The classical and lectin pathways of the complement system may be involved in vasculitic neuropathy associated with SLE and RA.
A neural network‐enhanced reproducing kernel particle method for modeling strain localization
Authors: Baek Jonghyuk , Chen Jiun‐Shyan , Susuki Kristen
Published: May 2022

Modeling the localized intensive deformation in a damaged solid requires highly refined discretization for accurate prediction, which significantly increases the computational cost. Although adaptive model refinement can be employed for enhanced effectiveness, it is cumbersome for the traditional mesh‐based methods to perform while modeling the evolving localizations. In this work, neural network‐enhanced reproducing kernel particle method (NN‐RKPM) is proposed, where the location, orientation, and shape of the solution transition near a localization is automatically captured by the NN approximation via a block‐level neural network (NN) optimization. The weights and biases in the blocked parameterization network control the location and orientation of the localization. The designed basic four‐kernel NN block is capable of capturing a triple junction or a quadruple junction topological pattern, while more complicated localization topological patters are captured by the superposition of multiple four‐kernel NN blocks. The standard RK approximation is then utilized to approximate the smooth part of the solution, which permits a much coarser discretization than the high‐resolution discretization needed to capture sharp solution transitions with the conventional methods. A regularization of the NN approximation is additionally introduced for discretization‐independent material responses. The effectiveness of the proposed NN‐RKPM is verified by a series of numerical verifications.
Reference values and equations for the 6‐minute walk distance of Nigerian children aged 6–11 years: A cross‐sectional study
Authors: Ubuane Peter Odion , Ajiboye Olufunke Adewumi , Adekunle Motunrayo Oluwabukola , Akinola Ayodeji Olushola , Akinyosoye Gbenga , Kayode‐Awe Mogbafolu Olugbemiga , Ajayi Omotola Aderiyike , Ohagwu Chidimma Imma , Animasahun Barakat Adeola , Njokanma Fidelis Olisamedua
Published: May 2022

Background

The 6‐minute walk test (6MWT), a simple, reliable, and valid test that uses the distance walked in 6 minute walk distance (6MWD) to quantify functional capacity, is widely used in the management of chronic disorders. However, the absence of reference standards from sub‐Saharan African, including Nigerian, school‐aged children limits its utility in this age group.

Objectives

To develop normative values and equations for the 6MWD of school‐aged Nigerian children.

Methods

In a cross‐sectional study, healthy children aged 6–11 years in Lagos, Nigeria, completed the 6MWT on 20‐m‐long straight outdoor courses in their schools. The primary outcome was the 6MWD in meters while potential predictors included demographic (age, sex), anthropometric (height, weight, chest circumference, leg length) and physiologic variables (pre‐walk, immediate post‐walk, and fifth min‐post‐walk heart rate [HR], oxygen saturation [SpO2], systolic blood pressure [SBP], diastolic blood pressure [DBP], and rating of perceived exertion [RPE]; and the difference between pre‐walk and post‐walk HR [∆HR], SpO2 [∆SpO2], SBP [∆SBP], DBP [∆DBP], and RPE [∆RPE]).

Results

Overall, 627 pupils (52.1% girls) walked 504.6 ± 66.6 m (95% CI: 499.4, 509.8; range: 326.6–673.0 m); 16 m longer in boys (p = 0.002). A stepwise linear regression model yielded: 6MWD (m) = 347.9 + 14(Ageyears) + 1.6 (∆HRbeats/min) + 17.6(Sexmale=1, female=0) + 1.2(∆SBPmmHg); R2 = 0.25. Previously published reference equations mostly over‐estimated Nigerian children's 6MWD.

Conclusion

These reference standards add to the global normative data on pediatric 6MWT and may be useful for the functional evaluation of Nigerian school‐aged children with chronic childhood disorders.