bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Local Steric Hindrance for CO2 Electroreduction at a Thermodynamic Potential and Wide Working Window
Authors: Li Ming , Yang Kang , Sun Yuntong , Gao Tianqi , Nie Zhihao , Chen Sheng , Li Qiang , Duan Jingjing
Published: January 2024

To improve the energy‐conversion efficiency and adaptability between a CO2 electroreduction system and intermittent renewable energy, small onset potentials, and wide working windows are highly important. Here, three indium metal–organic frameworks (In‐MOFs) have been projected using different ligands to adjust the local steric hindrance and electronic structure of In nodes, manipulating the whole workflow of CO2 during electroreduction including local CO2 transport, adsorption, activation, hydrogenation, and product desorption. Significantly, a CO2 electroreduction to formate process promoted by 2,5‐TDC In‐MOF shows an onset potential of −0.1 V versus RHE around the therymodynamic potential, over 90% FEforamte in a wide current‐density window from 0.1 to 0.9 A cm−2. Driven by solar cells, the system displays a high solar‐to‐chemical efficiency of 17.39%. In depth mechanism study indicates that the local CO2 transport and adsorption of all In‐MOFs are thermodynamically and kinetically favorable, while the energy barrier of potential‐determine step (*HCOOH desorption) is the lowest for 2,5‐TDC In‐MOF.
High‐Performance Ternary Organic Solar Cells with Enhanced Luminescence Efficiency and Miscibility Enabled by Two Compatible Acceptors
Authors: Zhang Cai'e , Zheng Rui , Huang Hao , Ran Guangliu , Liu Wenxu , Chen Qiaoling , Wu Baohua , Wang Hang , Luo Zhenghui , Zhang Wenkai , Ma Wei , Bo Zhishan , Yang Chuluo
Published: January 2024

The ternary strategy has proven to be an effective method for improving the efficiency of organic solar cells (OSCs). However, designing and selecting the third component still pose challenges. In this study, this issue is addressed by focusing on the PBDB‐T:Y18‐F binary system and introducing a new, strong luminescent, asymmetric small‐molecule acceptor (SMA) called L8‐CBIC‐Cl, which shares a similar skeleton with Y18‐F. The similarity in molecular framework facilitates good compatibility between the two acceptors, resulting in the formation of an alloy‐like acceptor phase. Furthermore, the norbornenyl‐modified end group in L8‐CBIC‐Cl contributes to its strong luminescent properties, which in turn leads to a low non‐radiative energy loss and a high open‐circuit voltage. Consequently, the PBDB‐T:L8‐CBIC‐Cl:Y18‐F based ternary devices realize a high power conversion efficiency (PCE) up to 17.01%, which is higher than PBDB‐T:Y18‐F device (14.49%). Importantly, L8‐CBIC‐Cl exhibits a good universality as a guest acceptor in other three binary systems (D18:Y6, D18:BTP‐eC9‐4F, and D18:L8‐BO). The D18:L8‐BO:L8‐CBIC‐Cl device shows an impressive efficiency of 19%. The work demonstrates that employing SMA with a high PLQY and better miscibility with host acceptor as the third component has a great potential for developing high‐efficiency ternary OSCs.
Quasi‐in situ Observation of MnO2Nanorods by Electrochemical Transmission Electron Microscopy for Oxygen Reduction Reaction Process
Authors: Han Zengyu , Roslie Hany , Tan Shu Fen , Wu Dongshuang
Published: January 2024

Understanding the electrode materials’ surface is of fundamental importance for catalytic studies as most electrochemical reactions take place there. Although several operando techniques have been used to monitor the electrocatalytic process, real‐time imaging techniques for observing the surface change on electrode materials are still a challenge and limited to a few stable catalytic systems. Herein, the quasi‐in situ electrochemical transmission electron microscopy (TEM) was carried out to track the morphological and local structure evolution during the oxygen reduction reaction (ORR) on manganese dioxide (MnO2) for the first time. The α‐MnO2nanorods exhibit comparable ORR electrocatalytic activity (half‐wave potential,E1/2: 0.83 vs. 0.85 V vs. RHE; diffusion‐limiting current density,Jd: −5.46 vs. −5.52 mA cm−2) and better methanol tolerance than Pt/C. An electrochemical TEM chip assembled with a three‐electrode system was used to perform the electrochemical experiments similar to typical testing procedures. The ex situ and quasi‐in situ TEM images consistently showed that MnO2nanorods had undergone surface roughening, and lattice expansion with 0.97% and 1.97% in theaandc‐axis, respectively as ORR proceeded. The quasi‐in situ electrochemical TEM fills the gap between ex situ characterization and operando spectroscopies and deepens the mechanistic understanding of electrocatalytic processes.
Optimal retrofitting of conventional oil refinery into sustainable bio‐refinery under uncertainty
Authors: Zhang Lifeng , Torres Ana Inés , Chen Bingzhen , Yuan Zhihong , Grossmann Ignacio E.
Published: January 2024

This article focuses on a novel optimization problem to retrofit a conventional fossil‐based refinery into a hybrid biomass‐based refinery. A mixed‐integer linear programming model, which considers a 10‐year‐long retrofit planning along with operational constraints in each year, is formulated. The problem is extended to a multistage stochastic programming model to handle both endogenous and exogenous uncertainties, and solved through a series of two‐stage stochastic programming subproblems. Furthermore, a Lagrangean decomposition algorithm is implemented to solve such a problem. By determining whether to add new units or retrofit existing units to the selected biomass‐based technologies, the results provide flexible design alternatives with consideration of operational constraints for each year. The results show the advantages of the selected biomass‐based technologies and enhance the performance of the final solution under uncertainty.
Dehydrative Condensation of Carboxylic Acids with Amines Promoted by HBF4/MS 5A
Authors: Ohmura Shuhei , Ishikawa Tatsuya , Huang Qianchun , Horibe Takahiro , Ishihara Kazuaki
Published: January 2024

The direct dehydrative condensation of carboxylic acids with amines is one of the most straightforward methods for the synthesis of amides. We discovered that HBF4 effectively promotes the coupling of several N‐protected amino acids in the presence of molecular sieves (MS) 5A to afford the corresponding peptides in good to high yield. Interestingly, the recovered MS 5A could be reused as a catalyst even in the absence of additional HBF4 for the dehydrative condensation. This protocol is not limited to the synthesis of peptides, but generally works for the synthesis of amides from a variety of carboxylic acids and amines.
What do we know about the experiences of belonging for [Black] Africans in Australia? A systematic scoping review
Authors: Gatwiri Kathomi , James Samara
Published: January 2024

Belonging is political. While it is a felt‐and‐embodied experience, it is also heavily mediated by power. For racially and culturally minoritised people, belonging is expressed in hidden, often racialised codes articulated through an “us and them” framework. Within this systematic scoping review, critical issues of belonging are made visible, indicating that belonging for Black Africans in Australia is a highly racialised and complex cultural experience and significantly impacts their sense of self, identity, agency, citizenship and participation, social integration and inclusion. This study found the core themes on experiences of belonging for this cohort, are: (1) Racialised (non)belonging, (2) Belonging as access, (3) Belonging as a civic process, (4) Belonging as an active process and (5) Re‐claiming belonging. In summary, Black African migrants experienced significant challenges with access to decent employment, housing, education, health services and relationships (including potential dating partners), which affected their sense of felt belonging. The literature showed that belonging for this group was a constant negotiation. It included constructing and reconstructing dual identities to accommodate their experiences of Australianness and Africanness while resisting labels that homogenised them. There was also an active process of building belonging through reclaiming places of community and dignity.
“Not just a new house”: The complexities of undoing institutional practices and identities in transitions to community living
Authors: Howard Amanda , Johnston Lou , Tseris Emma , Joseph Pam
Published: January 2024

While scholarship regarding the promises and challenges of deinstitutionalisation is expansive, less is known about deinstitutionalisation within the context of contemporary neoliberal disability policy frameworks. This article reports on a study exploring recent transitions from institutional to community living within the context of the highly contested National Disability Insurance Scheme (NDIS) in Australia. The perspectives of family members and staff within disability services reveal diverse understandings of the transition. Thematic analysis identified multiple complexities, including hope simultaneously experienced alongside grief and loss, and the non‐linear processes involved in taking on new roles and identities. The study demonstrates that deinstitutionalisation is not constituted merely by a physical re‐location and that undoing institutional practices requires ongoing attention and resources. Significant concerns raised by participants relating to the impacts of privatisation, fragmented services and a casualised workforce disrupt simplistic thinking about the inevitability of social inclusion through deinstitutionalisation, particularly within neoliberal policy settings.
Social frailty and the incidence of motoric cognitive risk syndrome in older adults
Authors: Zhang Hui , Hu Zixin , Jiang Shuai , Hao Meng , Li Yi , Liu Yining , Jiang Xiao‐Yan , Jin Li , Wang Xiaofeng
Published: January 2024

INTRODUCTION

Various associations between social factors and motoric cognitive risk syndrome (MCR) have been reported. However, whether social frailty (integrated from multiple social factors) is associated with MCR is still unclear.

METHODS

We included 4657 individuals without MCR at Round 1 of the NHATS as the discovery sample, and 3075 newly recruited individuals from Round 5 of the NHATS as the independent validation sample. Social frailty was assessed by five social items. MCR was defined as the presence of both subjective cognitive complaints and slow gait speed in individuals without dementia or mobility disability.

RESULTS

Compared with normal individuals, those with social frailty had higher risk of incident MCR (hazard ratio [HR]: 1.57, 95% confidence interval [CI]: 1.34–1.84). Each additional unfavorable social item was associated with an increased risk of MCR (HR: 1.32, 95% CI: 1.22–1.43).

DISCUSSION

Social frailty was associated with an increased risk of incident MCR in older adults.

Highlights

Various associations between social factors and motoric cognitive risk syndrome (MCR) have been reported.

Social frailty that integrated from multiple social factors was associated with an increased risk of incident MCR.

Social frailty should be included in the early screening of individuals to identify those at higher risk of MCR.
Stability and thermodynamic property of TiO2/R141b nanorefrigerants by multi‐objective optimization
Authors: Xing Ming , Zhai Yuling
Published: January 2024

Utilizing nanorefrigerants as working fluids can significantly enhance the energy efficiency of low‐temperature waste heat recovery systems (≤ 50°C). Refrigerants with low viscosity and density require a substantial amount of surfactant to maintain a stable suspension of nanoparticles. However, the excessive use of surfactants, which have a notably low thermal conductivity, could lead to foam generation and reduce heat transfer coefficient. High viscosity lubricating oils with small amount of surfactant can prolong the stable suspension time and produce repulsive force. Therefore, a new combination of them improves the stability of TiO2/R141b nanorefrigerants. Additionally, viscosity and thermal conductivity of the nanorefrigerants were optimized using an implementation of a modified non‐dominated sorting genetic algorithm (NSGA‐II). The results show that adding lubricating oil inhibits aggregation of the nanoparticles leading to a stable suspension for more than 6 h at volumetric mixing ratios (lubricating oil: refrigerant) greater than 1:30. The best dispersion stability was achieved at surfactant polyvinyl pyrrolidone (PVP) mass ratio of 0.5, and the average absorbance value was increased by 65.45%. Compared with pure refrigerants, the thermal conductivity of TiO2/R141b (0.15 vol.%) nanorefrigerant was enhanced by up to 12.59% under the optimum mixing ratio. Moreover, the studied nanorefrigerants exhibited shear thickening behavior throughout the studied shear rate range, with increased non‐Newtonianization with decreasing temperature. Finally, the Pareto points were divided into three representative groups based on thermal conductivity and viscosity. These findings suggest enhanced high heat transfer efficiency with pumping power of nanorefrigerant in the waste heat recovery systems.
NIR‐Mediated Cu2O/Au Nanomotors for Synergistically Treating Hepatoma Carcinoma Cells
Authors: Xian Ting , Liu Yilin , Song Qingtao , Li Jing , Liu Wenjuan , Gu Zhongwei
Published: January 2024

We presented a NIR‐driven Janus Cu2O/Au nanomotor. The nanomotor has a truncated octahedral structure. By asymmetric Au evaporation, the light response range of Cu2O nanomotor is extended to near‐infrared range, and the speed of Cu2O/Au nanomotors under NIR is significantly increased. In promoting apoptosis of hepatocellular carcinoma, except the nanotoxicity of Cu2O itself, the Au layer enhances the photothermal properties, allowing Cu2O/Au nanomotors to induce apoptosis in hepatocellular carcinoma cells by heating them. On the other hand, a Schottky barrier formed at the interface of Cu2O and Au, preventing the recombination of electrons, which makes more electrons react with biomolecules to produce toxic ROS to kill hepatocellular cells. The killing rate of hepatocellular carcinoma cells reached 87 % by the combined effect of nanotoxicity inhibition of proliferation and photothermal & photodynamic therapy (PTT & PDT). Nanomotors in combination with multiple approaches are explored as a new treatment to tumor in this article.
A design proposal of finite‐time H∞ controller for stochastic mean‐field systems
Authors: Liu Xikui , Teng Yapeng , Li Yan
Published: January 2024

A design proposal of finite‐time
controller for stochastic mean‐field systems (MFSs), which are described by a Itô type differential equation, is presented in this paper. Firstly, based on
control theory and finite‐time control theory, three sufficient conditions, which ensure the MFS satisfies stochastic
finite‐time state feedback stabilization, are gained. Secondly, by decoupling correlation matrix inequalities, the state feedback controller (SFC) gains are obtained. Finally, the simulation results demonstrate that the large system of interacting particles can be approximated by MFS under certain conditions, and the controller design schemes proposed are feasible.
The citrus economy in Sicily in the early bioeconomy era: a case study for bioeconomy practitioners
Authors: Ciriminna Rosaria , Angellotti Giuseppe , Luque Rafael , Pagliaro Mario
Published: January 2024

Sicily hosts a significant and ancient citrus agroindustry, which includes more than 42 000 farming companies and around 20 citrus fruit‐processing companies. This study critically analyzes the citrus economy in Sicily in the early bioeconomy era with the aim to identify outcomes of general relevance for bioeconomy researchers and bioeconomy company managers working towards the full valorization of Citrus crops. These practitioners include bioeconomy company managers who need additional education in which economic and management knowledge is merged with an understanding of science and technology.
Drivers of school choice: Primary school selection in a free choice context
Authors: Parma Andrea , Agasisti Tommaso , Ranci Costanzo
Published: January 2024

In Italy, parents are free to choose the primary school for their children without restrictions imposed by catchment areas. This freedom of choice, inspired by quasi‐market mechanisms, aims to foster competition between schools and raise educational standards. Analysing the case of Milan using regression models and administrative data for the 2015–16 school year, we study the factors associated with the probability that parents choose a school different from the one closest to where they live. We focus on both push factors (the characteristics of local schools) and pull factors (the features of chosen schools). The findings indicate that parents select schools which have a lower proportion of immigrant pupils and higher socio‐economic status of the student body. On the other hand, school performance in standardised tests is not statistically associated with parents' decisions to opt out of local schools, nor does it emerge as a feature of the schools most likely to attract non‐local students after accounting for the socio‐economic composition of school intake. The resulting picture shows that affluent Italian parents implement avoidance strategies to avoid schools attended by a high proportion of immigrant or lower‐class students—with the potential of fostering segregation and concentrations of disadvantaged groups.
Lithium dendrites in all‐solid‐state batteries: From formation to suppression
Authors: Sun Huaihu , Celadon Axel , Cloutier Sylvain G. , Al‐Haddad Kamal , Sun Shuhui , Zhang Gaixia
Published: January 2024

All‐solid‐state lithium (Li) metal batteries combine high power density with robust security, making them one of the strong competitors for the next generation of battery technology. By replacing the flammable and volatile electrolytes commonly found in traditional Li‐ion batteries (LIBs) with noncombustible solid‐state electrolytes (SSEs), we have the potential to fundamentally enhance safety measures. Concurrently, SSE would be capable of fitting high specific capacity (3860 mAh g−1) metal Li and is expected to break through the upper limit of mass‐energy density (350 Wh kg−1) of existing LIBs system. Nevertheless, the growth of Li dendrites on the negative side or the nucleation of Li inside SSEs may give rise to battery short circuits, which is the primary factor limiting the application of Li metal. Recognizing this, the focus of this review is to provide a perspective for experimentalists and theorists who closely monitor various surface/interface and microstructure phenomena to understand Li dendrites. The strategies to reveal the complicated deposition mechanism and to control the dendrite growth of metal Li in solid‐state batteries, as well as the advanced characterization methods of metal Li, provide suggestions for the practical research of solid‐state Li metal batteries.
Unveiling Annona Reticulata's Bioactive Arsenal for Enhanced Antibiotic Effects
Authors: Ramiz Uddin Muhammad , Shahriar Asif , Jahan Mim Halima , Khadiza Papia Bibi , Rob Siddiquee Mohd. Faijanur , Bin R. Q Khan Ahnaf , Islam Rahatul , Fatema Nour , Parvez Anwar , Kumar Roy Goutam , Rana Sohel
Published: January 2024

Objective: To study the antibacterial and phytochemical activities of bioactive elements in the leaves of Annona reticulata Linn, a historically used Bangladeshi medicinal plant. Methods: Shade‐dried and crushed plant leaves were soaked with various solvents to obtain samples for different chemical analyses. All extracts were selected for antimicrobial, physicochemical, and Pharmacological investigations. The antimicrobial activity was evaluated using disc diffusion assay, and broth microdilution methods determined potentiation of the activities of the antibiotic antibacterial activity of the plant extracts was investigated using either gram‐positive or gram‐negative pathogenic wild‐type bacteria. Results: From the initial phytochemical and pharmacological studies, it was clear that all extracts, methanol, chloroform, and ethyl acetate, of the leaves of A. reticulata, were proven to process potent bioactive constituents. While differential antimicrobial properties were found to be possessed by all extracts, methanolic extract was the most potent one against all tested microorganisms. It also has potentiated the activities of antibiotics in E. coli. Conclusion: Bioactive constituents in the plant extracts were shown to possess phytochemical and antimicrobial activities. More investigation is needed to segregate the chemical components responsible for the respective phytochemical and antimicrobial activities.
Variability in Chemical Composition and Biochemical Activities ofMentha x piperitaL. Essential Oil, in Response to Mycorrhizal Symbiosis and Heavy Metal Stress
Authors: Djerrad Zineb , Terfi Souhila , Brakchi Lila
Published: January 2024

The present paper highlights the effect of Pb/Cd‐stress and/or mycorrhizal colonization byGlomus Intraradiceson yield, chemical composition, cytotoxicity and antimicrobial activity ofMentha x piperitaL. essential oil. Our findings showed that mycorrhizal colonization could be used to improve the essential oil yield ofM. x piperita, either in non‐stressed or Pb/Cd‐stressed plants. GC–MS analysis revealed three chemotypes: linalool/pulegone (32.6/30.8 %) chemotype in essential oils of non‐mycorrhizal Pb‐stressed plants, menthone/menthyl acetate (30.3/25.1 %) chemotype in essential oils of non‐mycorrhizal Cd‐stressed plants and menthol (44.6 %) chemotype in essential oils of non‐mycorrhizal non‐stressed plants, mycorrhizal non‐stressed plants and mycorrhizal Pb/Cd‐stressed plants. The cytotoxicity ofM. x piperitaessential oil, evaluated by brine shrimp lethality bioassay, was increased in presence of Pb/Cd‐stress (from 379.58 to 72.84 μm/mL) and decreased in mycorrhizal plants (from 379.58 to 482.32 μm/mL). The antimicrobial activity ofM. x piperitaessential oil, evaluated by disc diffusion method and determination of Minimum Inhibitory Concentration against ten microorganisms, was enhanced by the mycorrhizal colonization and deceased by the Pb/Cd‐stress. In conclusion, the inoculation of medicinal plants with mycorrhizal fungi is a real avenue for alleviating abiotic stress and/or increasing the quantity and quality of secondary metabolites in terms of biological activities.
Potential of a flatbed scanner for evaluation of flour samples for dark specks and flour color
Authors: Brabec Daniel , Grothe Sophia , Perez‐Fajardo Mayra , Pordesimo Lester , Yeater Kathleen
Published: January 2024

Background and Objectives

Flour color changes caused by contamination like fungal‐damaged kernels can be determined by several methods, but many existing methods are time‐consuming and require specialized training. In this study, a commercial flatbed scanner was used to quickly detect and quantify the abundance of black specks derived from smutty grains in wheat flour samples.

Findings

Our method easily classified flour samples into several categories, as clean flour, marginally clean, or contaminated, by using varied levels of %area‐smut. From our set of calibration flour samples, clean flour samples were located below 0.025% area‐smut. Marginal flours were defined as flours having %area‐smut from 0.025% to 0.050%. Notably, contaminated flour had %area‐smut greater than 0.05%. Moreover, the flour color brightness parameter (L) was determined using the scanner and was found to be inversely related to the %area‐smut. In addition, the number of smutty seeds manually detected in 250 g whole‐grain samples was correlated to the %area‐smut found in the flour.

Conclusions

Therefore, this method represents a rapid and reliable way to distinguish clean flour from flour milled from wheat containing various levels of smut contamination.

Significance and Novelty

This method was developed and validated using wheat samples collected from the field and contained a range of smut contamination. Although specks could easily be detected and counted, we found that speck counts varied with scanner resolution setting. Therefore, an alternate parameter referred to as “%area‐smut” was calculated and resulted in more consistent values per sample regardless of scanner resolution. Additionally, the flour color parameter, L*, was determined for each scanned image using imaging processing software. This color parameter, L*, was well correlated with those measured with a reference hand‐held colorimeter.
Toward Efficient and Stereoselective Aromatic and Dearomative Cope Rearrangements: Experimental and Theoretical Investigations of α‐Allyl‐α’‐Aromatic γ‐Lactone Derivatives.
Authors: Mando Morgane , Grellepois Fabienne , Blanc Aurélien , Hénon Eric , Riguet Emmanuel
Published: January 2024

The aromatic Cope rearrangement is an elusive transformation that has been the subject of a limited number of investigations compared to those seemingly close analogues, namely the Cope and aromatic Claisen rearrangement. Herein we report our investigations inspired by moderate success observed in the course of pioneering works. By careful experimental and theoretical investigations, we demonstrate that key substitutions on 1,5‐hexadiene scaffold allow fruitful transformations. Especially, efficient functionalisation of the heteroaromatic rings results from the aromatic Cope rearrangement, while highly stereoselective interrupted aromatic Cope rearrangements highlight the formation of chiral compounds through a dearomative process.
Immobilised Ruthenium Complexes for the Electrooxidation of 5‐Hydroxymethylfurfural
Authors: Bühler Jan , Muntwyler Alissa , Roithmeyer Helena , Adams Pardis , Besmer Manuel Luca , Blacque Olivier , Tilley S. David
Published: January 2024

Abundantly available biomass‐based platform chemicals, including 5‐hydroxymethylfurfural (HMF), are essential stepping stones in steering the chemical industry away from fossil fuels. The efficient catalytic oxidation of HMF to its diacid derivative, 2,5‐furandicarboxylic acid (FDCA), is a promising research area with potential applications in the polymer industry. Currently, the most encouraging approaches are based on solid‐state catalysts and are often conducted in basic aqueous media, conditions where HMF oxidation competes with its decomposition. Efficient molecular catalysts are practically unknown for this reaction. In this study, we report on the synthesis and electrocatalysis of surface‐bound molecular ruthenium complexes for the transformation of HMF to FDCA under acidic conditions. Catalyst immobilisation on mesoporous indium tin oxide electrodes is achieved through the incorporation of phosphonic acid anchoring groups. Screening experiments with HMF and further reaction intermediates revealed the catalytic route and bottlenecks in the catalytic synthesis of FDCA. Utilising these immobilised electrocatalysts, FDCA yields of up to 85 % and faradaic efficiencies of 91 % were achieved, without any indication of substrate decomposition. Surface analysis by X‐ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS) post‐electrocatalysis unveiled the desorption of the catalyst from the electrode surface as a limiting factor in terms of catalytic performance.
Reduction‐Specified Coupling Reactions of Nitroarenes by Heterogeneous Cobalt Catalysis
Authors: Sun Jia‐Lu , Xi Junwei , Zhao H. , Zhang Min
Published: January 2024

The in‐depth study on reduction–specified coupling reactions of the nitroarenes by heterogeneous cobalt catalysis opens a door for diversified syntheses of functional N‐containing molecules. Guided by the structure–function relationship of heterogeneous materials, rational design of nano–catalysts can effectively regulate the routes of organic reactions. Precise transformation of the intermediates generated during the nitroarene reduction with a suitable nano–catalyst is a promising way to develop new tandem reactions, and to synthesize structurally novel compounds that are of difficult access with the conventional approaches.
Fetal development of the human amygdala
Authors: Mulc Damir , Smilović Dinko , Krsnik Željka , Junaković‐Munjas Alisa , Kopić Janja , Kostović Ivica , Šimić Goran , Vukšić Mario
Published: January 2024

The intricate development of the human amygdala involves a complex interplay of diverse processes, varying in speed and duration. In humans, transient cytoarchitectural structures deliquesce, leading to the formation of functionally distinct nuclei as a result of multiple interdependent developmental events. This study compares the amygdala's cytoarchitectural development in conjunction with specific antibody reactivity for neuronal, glial, neuropil, and radial glial fibers, synaptic, extracellular matrix, and myelin components in 39 fetal human brains. We recognized that the early fetal period, as a continuation of the embryonic period, is still dominated by relatively uniform histogenetic processes. The typical appearance of ovoid cell clusters in the lateral nucleus during midfetal period is most likely associated with the cell migration and axonal growth processes in the developing human brain. Notably, synaptic markers are firstly detected in the corticomedial group of nuclei, while immunoreactivity for the panaxonal neurofilament marker SMI 312 is found dorsally. The late fetal period is characterized by a protracted migration process evidenced by the presence of doublecortin and SOX‐2 immunoreactivity ventrally, in the prospective paralaminar nucleus, reinforced by vimentin immunoreactivity in the last remaining radial glial fibers. Nearing the term period, SMI 99 immunoreactivity indicates that perinatal myelination becomes prominent primarily along major axonal pathways, laying the foundation for more pronounced functional maturation. This study comprehensively elucidates the rate and sequence of maturational events in the amygdala, highlighting the key role of prenatal development in its behavioral, autonomic, and endocrine regulation, with subsequent implications for both normal functioning and psychiatric disorders.
Concomitant Use of Sodium‐Glucose Cotransporter 2 Inhibitors and Overactive Bladder Drugs and the Risk of Urinary Tract Infection
Authors: Bea Sungho , Lee Hyesung , Park Sohee , Cho Young Min , Choi Won Suk , Bykov Katsiaryna , Shin Ju‐Young
Published: January 2024

Concomitant use of sodium glucose cotransporter‐2 inhibitors (SGLT‐2i) and overactive bladder (OAB) drugs potentially poses a risk of urinary tract infections (UTIs) due to the urinary retention of highly concentrated glucose in the urine. Thus, this study aimed to investigate the risk of UTIs among patients who initiated SGLT‐2i treatment while taking OAB drugs. This population‐based cohort study included new‐users of SGLT‐2i or comparator antidiabetics (dipeptidyl peptidase‐4 inhibitor (DPP‐4i); glucagon‐like peptide‐1 receptor agonist (GLP‐1RA)) with OAB drugs between 2014 and 2020 using claim data from Korea. Primary outcome was a composite UTI event composite end point comprising pyelonephritis, cystitis, and urethritis, using both inpatient and outpatient diagnoses. Propensity score fine stratification was used to adjust for potential confounding factors. Weighted hazard ratios (HR) were calculated using the Cox proportional hazards model. In the first cohort, 796 and 9,181 new‐users of SGLT‐2i and DPP‐4i with OAB drugs were identified, respectively. This study found a similar risk of UTIs in concomitant users of SGLT‐2i and DPP‐4i (weighted HR 1.08, 95% confidence interval: 0.88–1.32) with OAB drugs. In the second cohort, 2,387 and 280 new‐users of SGLT‐2i and GLP‐1RA with OAB drugs were identified, respectively. Initiation of SGLT‐2i while on OAB treatment was not associated with increased risk of UTI (0.89, 0.50–1.60), compared with initiation of GLP‐1RA. These results show that the concomitant use of SGLT‐2i with OAB drugs was not associated with an increased risk of UTI compared with the concomitant use of DPP‐4i or GLP‐1RA with OAB drugs.
Investigating Ultrafast Electron Transfer in Graphene and Its Derivatives Composites by Femtosecond Transient Absorption Spectroscopy
Authors: Li Dong , He Xiaoxiao , Zhang Xiaolei , Chen Jinquan , Jin Qingyuan , Xu Jianhua
Published: January 2024

As excellent functional materials, the composite materials based on graphene and its derivatives (GNDs) have lots of important application values in the emerging fields such as solar energy conversion, and the exploration of electron (or energy) transfer properties of those composites is the key for revealing their further applications. In this review, femtosecond transient absorption spectroscopy (TAS) has been introduced as an essential technique to understand the carrier behaviors in GNDs composites, as well as the advancements of TAS. The specific examples of electron transport in various composite materials characterized by TAS are summarized and discussed, which consist of GNDs with semiconductor quantum dots (QDs), organic dyes, organic polymers, perovskites and other materials, respectively. This review provides a deep insight into the electron transfer (ET) kinetics of various GNDs composites from the perspective of TAS.
Water‐soluble Polypyrrole‐Polybis(4‐oxy benzene sulfonic acid)phosphazene Composites and Investigation of Their Performance as Cathode Binder in Li‐ion Batteries
Authors: Duyar Halil , Büşra Çelebi Elif , Güney Emre , Hacıvelioğlu Ferda
Published: January 2024

Current electric storage systems eagerly focus on high‐power and energy‐dense Lithium‐ion batteries to cope with increasing energy storage demands. Since cathode materials are one of the bottlenecks of these batteries, there is much interest in layered lithium‐rich manganese oxide‐based (LLMO) cathodes which can develop this technology. However, Initial Coulombic Efficiency (ICE) loss, poor rate performance and cycling instability issues are still persistent as problems to be solved for these materials. Recent research shows that water‐soluble binders are effective in improving the performance of LLMO materials. Herein, we describe the synthesis, characterisation, and application of a series of water‐soluble composites as a binder for LLMO cathodes. The PPy is introduced as part of the binder to improve the electronic conductivity and two different oxidants and various PPy to PSAP ratios were used to optimise the final properties. The electrochemical performance and morphology of the cathodes before and after cycling were investigated and compared with the conventional PVDF binder. The LLMO−2c electrode showed excellent charge‐discharge performance, especially at 5 C and 10 C rates, and high cycling stability at 0.2 C whilst maintaining a final capacity of 184 mAh/g after 200 cycles, which is equal to 89.3 % capacity retention.
Molecular features of luminal breast cancer defined through spatial and single‐cell transcriptomics
Authors: Yoshitake Ryohei , Mori Hitomi , Ha Desiree , Wu Xiwei , Wang Jinhui , Wang Xiaoqiang , Saeki Kohei , Chang Gregory , Shim Hyun Jeong , Chan Yin , Chen Shiuan
Published: January 2024

Background

Intratumour heterogeneity is a hallmark of most solid tumours, including breast cancers. We applied spatial transcriptomics and single‐cell RNA‐sequencing on patient‐derived xenografts (PDXs) to profile spatially resolved cell populations within oestrogen receptor‐positive (ER+) breast cancer and to elucidate their importance in oestrogen‐dependent tumour growth.

Methods

Two PDXs of ‘ER‐high’ breast cancers with opposite oestrogen‐mediated growth responses were investigated: oestrogen‐suppressed GS3 (80–100% ER) and oestrogen‐dependent SC31 (40–90% ER) models. The observation was validated via single‐cell analyses on an ‘ER‐low’ PDX, GS1 (5% ER). The results from our spatial and single‐cell analyses were further supported by a public ER+ breast cancer single‐cell dataset and protein‐based dual immunohistochemistry (IHC) of SC31 examining important luminal cancer markers (i.e., ER, progesterone receptor and Ki67). The translational implication of our findings was assessed by clinical outcome analyses on publicly available cohorts.

Results

Our space‐gene‐function study revealed four spatially distinct compartments within ER+ breast cancers. These compartments showed functional diversity (oestrogen‐responsive, proliferative, hypoxia‐induced and inflammation‐related). The ‘proliferative’ population, rather than the ‘oestrogen‐responsive’ compartment, was crucial for oestrogen‐dependent tumour growth, leading to the acquisition of luminal B‐like features. The cells expressing typical oestrogen‐responsive genes like PGR were not directly linked to oestrogen‐dependent proliferation. Dual IHC analyses demonstrated the distinct contribution of the Ki67+ proliferative cells toward oestrogen‐mediated growth and their response to a CDK4/6 inhibitor. The gene signatures derived from the proliferative, hypoxia‐induced and inflammation‐related compartments were significantly correlated with worse clinical outcomes, while patients with the oestrogen‐responsive signature showed better prognoses, suggesting that this compartment would not be directly associated with oestrogen‐dependent tumour progression.

Conclusions

Our study identified the gene signature in our ‘proliferative’ compartment as an important determinant of luminal cancer subtypes. This ‘proliferative’ cell population is a causative feature of luminal B breast cancer, contributing toward its aggressive behaviours.
Associations between oxidative stress biomarkers during pregnancy and infant cognition at 7.5 months
Authors: Eick Stephanie M. , Ortlund Kaegan , Aguiar Andréa , Merced‐Nieves Francheska M. , Woodbury Megan L. , Milne Ginger L. , Schantz Susan L.
Published: January 2024

Oxidative stress has been identified as an important biological pathway leading to neurodevelopmental delay. However, studies assessing the effects of oxidative stress on cognitive outcomes during infancy, a critical period of neurodevelopment, are limited. Our analysis included a subset of those enrolled in the Illinois Kids Development Study (N = 144). Four oxidative stress biomarkers (8‐isoprostane‐PGF2α, 2,3‐dinor‐5,6‐dihydro‐8‐iso‐PGF2α, 2,3‐dinor‐8‐iso‐PGF2α, and prostaglandin‐F2α) were measured in second and third trimesters urine and were averaged. Infant cognition was measured using a visual recognition memory task consisting of five blocks, each with one familiarization trial (two identical stimuli) and two test trials (one familiar and one novel stimulus). Outcomes measured included average run duration (a measure of information processing speed), novelty preference (a measure of recognition memory), time to reach familiarization, and shift rate (measures of attention). Linear regression was used to estimate associations between individual oxidative stress biomarkers and each outcome. Increasing 8‐isoprostane‐PGF2α, 2,3‐dinor‐8‐iso‐PGF2α, and prostaglandin‐F2α were associated with a decrease in novelty preference (β = −0.02, 95% confidence interval [CI] = −0.03, 0.00; β = −0.02, 95% CI = −0.04, 0.00; β = −0.01, 95% CI = −0.02, 0.00, respectively), as well as a modest increase in shift rate. These findings suggest that oxidative stress may be associated with poorer recognition memory in early infancy.
Toddlers’ physiological response to parent's mobile device distraction and technoference
Authors: Porter Chris L. , Coyne Sarah M. , Chojnacki Noah A. , McDaniel Brandon T. , Reschke Peter J. , Stockdale Laura A.
Published: January 2024

Given the prevalence of mobile device use, especially among parents of young children, the current study examines the impact of mobile device distraction (technoference) on toddlers’ physiological and emotional functioning. We suspected that toddlers’ would demonstrate difficultly maintaining physiological and emotional homeostasis when parents became distracted by a mobile device. In this study, we examined toddlers’ (N = 129, M age = 29.05 months) physiological and behavioral responses across three conditions in an induced technoference task that mimicked elements of a traditional still face paradigm (i.e., social engagement, phone distraction, and social recovery). Similar to previous studies employing still face with younger infants, a majority of toddlers demonstrated a loss of positive affective tone mirrored by heart rate increase and respiratory sinus arrhythmia (RSA) decrease (vagal withdrawal) during the phone distraction condition relative to the initial and final social engagement conditions. However, some toddlers demonstrated vagal activation (RSA increase) to parents’ phone distraction. Greater RSA withdrawal was linked to decreased positive affect and increased negative affect for children during parents’ phone distraction. Parents who reported higher levels of technoference were more likely to have children who demonstrated lower vagal reactivity (greater vagal withdrawal) to parents’ phone distraction while parents attitudes about technoference (e.g., “it is okay to use a mobile device in front of my child”) was found to be linked to higher RSA reactivity (greater vagal activation). Findings are discussed in relation to Porges’ polyvagal theory and the possible role that interactive dynamics play in children's emerging regulatory systems.
Oregano, thyme, and lemongrass essential oils as antimicrobial agents in gelatin for photographic films
Authors: Hirsch Ulrike M. , Jablonska Magdalena , Neelam Neeraja , Teuscher Nico , Schmelzer Christian E. H.
Published: January 2024

The aim of this study was to investigate the suitability of selected essential oils as more environmentally friendly, sustainable antimicrobial agents in photographic films for long‐term data storage. For this purpose, essential oils of oregano, thyme, and lemongrass were added in concentrations ranging from 0.4% to 4% to the gelatin comprising a protective layer for photographic microfilms. The emulsions were analyzed via UV‐Vis for their optical transparency, then tested for their antimicrobial efficacy against Bacillus subtilis, Staphylococcus hominis and Staphylococcus epidermidis. Thin coatings generated by spreading and drying the emulsions onto photographic film substrates were then characterized morphologically via SEM before and after standardized artificial aging procedures. It was found that oregano oil at a concentration of 0.4% maintained the optical and physical properties of the emulsion and proved highly effective against all tested bacteria. Thyme and lemongrass oil also exhibited some antimicrobial activity, however, were not able to inhibit the bacterial growth completely. At higher concentrations of the oils, the gelatin coatings cracked after artificial aging, which makes them unsuitable for the application. To conclude, selected essential oils like oregano oil can be used as an effective antimicrobial agent without compromising the quality of the photographic films.

Practical Applications: The results of our research can be applied directly to the manufacturing of photographic films, specifically ones intended for long‐term data storage. Furthermore, many applications of gelatin or related materials which require antimicrobial activity, such as food packaging, could be enhanced by the addition of essential oils.
A Green Approach to Nucleophilic Aromatic Substitutions of Nicotinic Esters in Cyrene
Authors: Citarella Andrea , Cavinato Miriam , Amenta Arianna , Nardini Marco , Silvani Alessandra , Passarella Daniele , Fasano Valerio
Published: January 2024

The green solvent CyreneTM has emerged as a valuable substitute for conventional polar aprotic organic solvents such as DMF, DMSO and NMP (renowned for their toxicity and environmental concerns). However, in the presence of bases, Cyrene is prone to polymerization, thus potentially incompatible with reactions where a base is needed to generate reactive nucleophiles. In this study, we developed an efficient synthetic strategy for nucleophilic aromatic substitutions of nicotinic esters in Cyrene. The success of this protocol relies on a very short reaction time (only 15 minutes) which prevents polymerization from occurring. Indeed, Cyrene not only outperformed typical solvents such as DMF and DMSO, but also, being highly soluble in water, allowed an easy purification of the desired products by simple precipitation upon the addition of ice‐water.
Modal characterization of a three‐story buckling‐restrained braced frame steel building by non‐destructive field testing
Authors: Morano Michael , Lin Louis , Hutchinson Tara , Liu Junwei , Williamson Emily , Pantelides Chris P.
Published: January 2024

A full‐scale, reconfigurable, three‐story steel building was constructed and its modal properties identified prior to shake table testing on the UC San Diego Large High Performance Outdoor Shake Table (LHPOST6). The aim of this pre‐shake table test erection was to demonstrate the rapid constructability of the building and identify construction fit issues prior to its assembly on LHPOST6. This posed a unique opportunity to characterize the building's modal properties using a variety of non‐destructive, low‐amplitude techniques. To this end, two novel, non‐destructive methods were used, namely: (1) impact tests conducted by swinging a tire from a crane to impact strategically selected locations, and (2) dynamic base vibration tests, induced by driving heavy machinery in the vicinity of the base of the structure. A system of accelerometers located throughout the structure captured waves propagating from each test to characterize the as‐built dynamic properties of the building. Results from various system identification methods are presented and compared to theoretical and numerical analysis. Comparisons indicate that the theoretical, numerical, and experimentally determined periods are nominally within 15% of each other. The erection of the structure was complete over the course of 3 days and construction fit‐up issues were addressed. The structure was then rapidly deconstructed and stored prior to erection for full‐scale shake table testing. This pre‐shake table test exercise demonstrated the viability of two, simple, low‐amplitude excitation approaches for use in the dynamic characterization of full‐scale buildings, with results consistent with theoretical and numerical models.
Prediction of runner eccentricity and Alford force of a Kaplan turbine based on variational mode decomposition
Authors: Hu Zilong , Liu Qiang , Wang Xiaohang , Fang Mingkun , Chen Taiping , Tao Ran , Ding Junfeng , Zhu Di , Xiao Ruofu , Wang Huanmao
Published: January 2024

The rotor blades of an axial‐flow turbine are cantilever structures, and there is inevitably a gap between them and the casing. Due to factors such as rotor wear and unit vibration, the eccentricity of the impeller will change during the operation of the turbine, resulting in the impeller being affected by additional radial forces, which can even lead to rubbing or biting between the impeller and the casing. To monitor the eccentricity of the impeller and the additional radial forces in real time during the operation of the turbine, this study conducted numerical simulations of the internal flow of the turbine under different eccentricities of the impeller, and analyzed the characteristics of pressure pulsation and impeller radial force in the turbine using the variational mode decomposition method. The results showed that there was a good linear relationship between the eccentricity of the impeller and the amplitude of the frequency corresponding to the rotor in pressure pulsation at the monitoring point and the Alford force acting on the impeller. Based on this finding, we established mathematical formulas for the relationship between the pressure pulsation at the monitoring point and the eccentricity of the impeller, as well as the eccentricity of the impeller and the Alford force acting on it. According to these formulas, we only need to monitor the pressure pulsation during the operation of the turbine to realize the real‐time monitoring of the eccentricity of the impeller and the Alford force, which is of great significance for ensuring the safe and stable operation of the turbine.