bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Extensive Properties Investigation of AgNWs‐PEDOT:PSS Based Transparent Conductive Electrode for Ultraflexible Organic Photodetector Applications
Authors: Dcosta Jostin Vinroy , Ochoa Daniel , Sanaur Sébastien
Published: November 2023

In this work, the optoelectrical, mechanical, and material properties of silver nanowires/poly(3,4‐ethylenedioxythiophene):poly(styrenesulfonate) (AgNWs‐PEDOT:PSS) hybrid electrode, solution processed on 5 µm parylene‐C substrate for ultraflexible organic photodetector (OPD) applications, are investigated. The fabricated transparent conductive hybrid electrode exhibits low sheet resistance (Rs) of 27 Ω Sq.−1 and shows an average optical transmission of 90% in the visible spectrum. Besides the comparable work function (WF) of 5 eV when compared with the standard indium tin oxide (ITO) electrode, the surface root mean square (RMS) roughness of the hybrid electrode is effectively reduced from 8 nm to 4 nm by spin coating a planarization layer of PEDOT:PSS. With a stable value in the relative change in resistance over continuous 50 k bending cycles at a curvature radius of 0.1 mm, the hybrid electrode exhibits excellent mechanical characteristics. Finally, using this hybrid electrode it is shown that an ultraflexible OPD fabricated in ambient atmospheric conditions demonstrates current density to voltage (J–V) characteristics comparable with standard ITO‐based OPD. Further, the ultraflexible OPD can withstand more than 5 k continuous bending cycles with similar J–V characteristics before and after bending.
Deciphering the Nature of an Overlooked Rate‐Limiting Interphase in High‐Voltage LiNi0.5Mn1.5O4 Cathodes: A Combined Electrochemical Impedance, Scanning Electron Microscopy and Secondary Ion Mass Spectrometry Study
Authors: Pateras Pescara Lars , Jaegermann Andrea , Mereacre Valeriu , Cronau Marvin , Binder Joachim R. , Roling Bernhard
Published: November 2023

High‐voltage cathode active materials, such as LiNi0.5Mn1.5O4 (LNMO), are of major interest for the development of high‐energy lithium‐ion batteries. However, it has been reported that composite cathodes based on high‐voltage active materials suffer from high impedances and low rate capabilities. The origin of the high impedances has not yet been clarified. Here, we use a combination of electrochemical impedance spectroscopy (EIS), focused ion beam/scanning electron microscopy/energy‐dispersive X‐ray spectroscopy (FIB/SEM/EDX) and time‐of‐flight secondary ion mass spectrometry (ToF‐SIMS) for showing that in the case of LNMO‐based cathodes, a major part of the cathode impedance is related to the formation of a passivating interphase on the Al current collector. Remarkably, the impedance of this interphase can be mitigated by the targeted formation of a distinct passivating interphase, namely on the surface of the LNMO particles. The interplay between these interphases is discussed.
Reinforcing the Adsorption and Conversion of Polysulfides in Li−S Battery by Incorporating Molybdenum into MnS/MnO Nanorods
Authors: Chen Zhiyuan , Wu Jie , Jiang Muxi , Yang Yunfei , Cao Wen , Zhang Jing , Gao Xuehui , Hu Enlai , Chen Zhongwei
Published: November 2023

The Sabatier principle suggests that an excessive adsorption of lithium polysulfides (LiPSs) by metal compounds may hinder their conversion in the absence of a conversion module. Therefore, it is imperative to establish a synergetic effect mechanism between “strong adsorption” and “rapid conversion” for LiPSs. To achieve this coexistence, a molybdenum‐doped MnS/MnO@C porous structure is designed as a multifunctional coating on the polypropylene (PP) separator. The incorporation of MnS/MnO@C enhances the adsorption capacity towards LiPSs, while molybdenum facilitates subsequent conversion. Benefiting from the synergistic effect of each component and its large specific surface area, the cell with Mo‐doped MnS/MnO@C coating achieves smooth adsorption‐diffusion‐conversion processes and exhibits an appreciable rate performance with outstanding cycling stability. Even when sulfur loading increases to 9.68 mg cm−2, the modified battery delivers an excellent initial areal capacity of 11.69 mAh cm−2 and maintains 6.97 mAh cm−2 after 50 cycles at 0.1 C. This study presents a promising approach to simultaneously accomplish “strong adsorption” and “rapid conversion” of polysulfides, offering novel perspectives for devising dual‐functional modified separators.
Ag/ZnO Composite Structure Modulated by Hybrid Engineering for Efficient Electroreduction of CO2 to CO
Authors: Wu Zhongqiu , Wang Zhaolong , She Xiaojie , Shen Wenlong , Yuan Junjie , Xu Hui
Published: November 2023

Electrochemical carbon dioxide reduction reaction (ECO2RR) act as a green and value‐added technology, which could convert CO2 into products with circulation value, has a good application prospect. However, the activity of non‐mainstream Zn‐based catalysts has not yet reached satisfactory expectations, and how to further modify them to improve the performance of CO production performance still remains a challenge. In our work, a design of hybrid engineering is proposed to enhance the activity of Zn‐based materials, in which the introduction of slight Ag could not only optimize the electronic structure of Zn‐based materials but also effectively increase their electrochemically active surface area. Compared with pure ZnO, the faraday efficiency of CO (FECO) in Ag/ZnO increased by 1.7 times from 45.9 % to 80.3 % at −0.977 V vs. RHE. Moreover, the long‐term and stable output of products in the electrolysis process also confirms the superior stability of the hybrid catalyst According to the in‐situ Raman study, it is confirmed that the main factor for the enhanced CO selectivity after the introduction of Ag is the improvement of the key *COOH intermediates. This study provides an effective strategy for constructing highly active Zn‐based catalysts for industrial‐scale ECO2RR.
An efficient large‐scale whole‐genome sequencing analyses practice with an average daily analysis of 100Tbp: ZBOLT
Authors: Li Zhichao , Xie Yinlong , Zeng Wenjun , Huang Yushan , Gu Shengchang , Gao Ya , Huang Weihua , Lu Lihua , Wang Xiaohong , Wu Jiasheng , Yin Xiaoxu , Zhu Rongyi , Huang Guodong , Lu Lin , Tang Jingbo , Zheng Yunping , Liu Quan , Zhou Xianqiang , Shan Riqiang , Wang Bo , Fang Mingyan , Jin Xin
Published: November 2023

Background

With the advancement of whole‐genome sequencing (WGS) technology, massively parallel sequencing (MPS) remains the mainstream due to its accuracy, low cost, and high throughput. The development of the analytical pipeline corresponding to MPS has always been of great importance. Increasingly large population genomics studies, as a specific type of big data research, pose new challenges for analysis solutions.

Results

Here, we introduce ZBOLT, a comprehensive analysis system that incorporates both software and hardware advancements, making it an appropriate choice for large‐scale population genomic studies that require extensive data processing. In this study, we first evaluate ZBOLT's calling accuracy using the Genome in a Bottle (GIAB) benchmark dataset. Then we apply ZBOLT to a large‐scale population genomics study with 5,616 high sequencing depth samples totaling 1.16Pbp (base pair). As the results show, ZBOLT demonstrates exceptional efficiency and low energy consumption, processing 100Tbp per day and using 1kWh per 100Gbp sequenced sample.

Conclusion

This research serves as a valuable reference for analyzing sequencing data from large population cohorts and underscores the significant potential of ZBOLT in large‐scale population genomics studies.
Plant traits associated with seed dispersal by ducks and geese in urban and natural habitats
Authors: Tóth Pál , Green Andy J. , Wilkinson David M. , Brides Kane , Lovas‐Kiss Ádám
Published: November 2023

Ducks and geese are little studied dispersal vectors for plants lacking a fleshy fruit, and our understanding of the traits associated with these plants is limited. We analyzed 507 faecal samples of mallard (Anas platyrhynchos) and Canada goose (Branta canadensis) from 18 natural and urban wetlands in England, where they are the dominant resident waterfowl. We recovered 930 plant diaspores from 39 taxa representing 18 families, including 28 terrestrial and five aquatic species and four aliens. Mallards had more seeds and seed species per sample than geese, more seeds from barochory and hydrochory syndromes, and seeds that on average were larger and from plants with greater moisture requirements (i.e., more aquatic). Mallards dispersed more plant species than geese in natural habitats. Plant communities and traits dispersed were different between urban (e.g., more achenes) and natural (e.g., more capsules) habitats. Waterfowl can readily spread alien species from urban into natural environments but also allow native terrestrial and aquatic plants to disperse in response to climate heating or other global change. Throughout the temperate regions of the Northern Hemisphere, the mallard is accompanied by a goose (either the Canada goose or the greylag goose) as the most abundant waterfowl in urbanized areas. This combination provides a previously overlooked seed dispersal service for plants with diverse traits.
High‐Pressure/High‐Temperature Synthesis of LnB3.6O7 (Ln=La, Pr) – Two Unique Lanthanoid Borates in a Defective α‐SrB4O7‐Structure‐Type
Authors: Teichtmeister Tobias A. , Widmann Ingo , Bayarjargal Lkhamsuren , Tribus Martina , Heymann Gunter , Wurst Klaus , Huppertz Hubert
Published: November 2023

The orthorhombic phases LaB3.6O7 and PrB3.6O7 were obtained by high‐pressure/high‐temperature syntheses at 11 GPa and temperatures of 1130 °C (LaB3.6O7) as well as 850 °C (PrB3.6O7) using a modified Walker‐type multianvil apparatus. The title compounds crystallize in the space group Pmn21 (no. 31) exhibiting a defective α‐SrB4O7 structure variant with the unit cell parameters a=10.4551(3) Å, b=4.4562(1) Å, c=4.2973(1) Å for LaB3.6O7 and a=10.4305(3) Å, b=4.4257(1) Å, c=4.2815(1) Å for PrB3.6O7. Both compounds were characterized by powder/single‐crystal X‐ray diffraction, vibrational spectroscopy, second harmonic generation, and electron dispersive X‐ray spectroscopy measurements.
Higher anthocyanin intake is associated with lower depressive symptoms in adults with and without major depressive disorder
Authors: Mestrom Annika , Charlton Karen E. , Thomas Susan J. , Larkin Theresa A. , Walton Karen L. , Elgellaie Asmahan , Kent Katherine
Published: November 2023

Background

Major depressive disorder (MDD) is a significant cause of disability globally and an emerging body of evidence suggests that dietary components, including flavonoids, may impact depression‐related biochemical pathways. Further research that characterizes dietary intake of flavonoids in diverse population groups, including people with MDD and explores the relationship between flavonoid intake and depression is needed. This study aimed to determine dietary flavonoid and subclass intake and assess the association with depressive symptomatology in a sample of adults with and without MDD.

Methodology

Participants with and without MDD (determined using DSM 5) completed the Depression, Anxiety, and Stress Scale‐21 (DASS‐21). Diet history interviews were analyzed using PhenolExplorer to quantify flavonoid subclasses (flavan‐3‐ols, flavonols, anthocyanins, flavones, flavanones, isoflavones), and total flavonoid intake. Independent t‐tests and linear regression, adjusting for age, sex, and BMI were performed.

Results

Participants (n = 93; 75% female) had a mean age of 26.0 ± 8.2 years. Participants with MDD had significantly higher DASS‐depression scores (n = 44; DASS‐depression 27.3 ± 9.8) compared to participants without MDD (n = 49; DASS‐depression 3.1 ± 4.4; p < .001). Intakes of total flavonoids and subclasses were similar between groups, except for anthocyanins where participants with MDD reported lower intakes of anthocyanins compared to participants without MDD (median intake: 0.08 mg/day and 11.6 mg/day, respectively; p = .02). In the total sample, higher anthocyanin intake was associated with lower DASS‐depression score (B = ‐4.1; SE = 1.8; 95% CI [−7.7, −0.4]; p = .029).

Conclusion

Intake of total flavonoids and most subclasses were similar between people with and without MDD. However, a dietary deficit of anthocyanins (found in purple/red fruits and vegetables) was evident in participants with MDD, and higher anthocyanin intake was associated with lower depressive symptomatology in the total sample. Further research in larger samples is warranted to explore if the documented association is independent of MDD status.
Enhancing runoff simulation precision in the critical zone through spatiotemporal interpolation of areal rainfall with matrix decomposition
Authors: Sheng Sheng , Chen Hua , Lin Kangling , Zhou Yanlai , Wang Jinxing , Chen Jie , Xiong Lihua , Guo Shenglian , Xu Chong‐Yu
Published: November 2023

Modelling hydrological process in the critical zone not only contributes to a better understanding of interactions across different Earth surface spheres but also holds significant practical implications for water resource management and disaster prevention. Rainfall‐runoff simulation in critical zones is particularly challenging due to the amalgamation of temporal and spatial complexity, rainfall variability, and data limitations. As a pivotal input variable of hydrological models, accurate estimation of areal rainfall is critical to successful runoff simulation. However, most estimation methods ignore temporal information, thereby increasing uncertainty in rainfall estimation and constraining the precision of rainfall‐runoff simulation. In this study, the matrix decomposition‐based estimation method (F‐SVD), which considers the spatial and temporal correlation of the rainfall process is employed to estimate areal rainfall. The superiority of the method in producing two‐dimensional rainfall information is evaluated through its application in runoff simulation with the Xin'anjiang model. The simulation results of selected flood events in the Jianxi basin in southeast China, spanning from 2009 to 2019, are compared with those of two widely used rainfall estimation methods, namely Arithmetical Mean (AM) and Thiessen Polygons (TP). The results show that (1) F‐SVD not only produces the highest Pearson correlation coefficient between rainfall and runoff series but also reduces the number of flood events with abnormal rainfall‐runoff relationships; (2) the Xin'anjiang model based on F‐SVD achieves the highest Nash‐Sutcliffe efficiency and lowest Relative Error, and performs best in simulating peak flow and its occurrence time as compared to AM and TP. This study contributes to a finer characterization of watershed rainfall distribution, enhancing the accuracy and sharpness of runoff simulation. It provides reliable data support for critical zone research and offers a scientific foundation for rationally allocating and managing water resources.
Fetal nephrolithiasis: What do we know so far?
Authors: Petrović Oleg , Flajšman Raspor Sanja , Krajina Robert , Ivandić Jelena
Published: November 2023

Synopsis

Fetal nephrolithiasis is a rare, benign condition that seems to be predominantly unilateral, more common in males, and can be associated with urinary tract pathology.
Process optimisation and kinetic study for esterification of levulinic acid and n‐butanol using sulfonated titania–zirconia heterogeneous catalyst
Authors: Veluturla Sravanthi , Kottam Nagaraju , P Vandana , Shetty Akul , Shankar Vivitsa
Published: November 2023

Background

Butyl levulinate (BL) was produced by the esterification of levulinic acid (LA) and n‐butanol (BOH) using a sulfonated nanocomposite of titania–zirconia as catalyst. A full factorial design was employed for studying the effects of reaction time, mole ratio and catalyst loading on LA conversion.

Results

The synthesised catalyst was subjected to various characterisation techniques such as X‐ray diffraction, Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy, Brunauer–Emmett–Teller measurements, thermogravimetric analysis, temperature‐programmed desorption and scanning electron microscopy–energy dispersive X‐ray analysis indicating the presence of a nanocrystalline structure with good surface area and good stability at the operating temperature. The experimental data were analysed using the response surface method, and a complete quadratic regression model was built. The LA conversion was 85.37% for the optimised reaction conditions of 1:7 mole ratio, a catalyst loading of 1 wt% and a reaction time of 5 h at 110 °C. Based on the Langmuir–Hinshelwood–Hougen–Watson model, a kinetic model was developed. The activation energy was found to be 20.4 ± 0.8 kJ mol−1 from an Arrhenius plot. Reusability and leaching results are also reported.

Conclusion

The catalyst exhibited good reusability and stability. Sulfonated TiO2–ZrO2 used to catalyse the reaction between LA and BOH to produce BL has proved to be a good candidate as a green catalyst. The results presented play an important part in directing subsequent research and commercialisation activities aimed at valorising LA to fuel additive. © 2023 Society of Chemical Industry (SCI).
A landscape ecology approach: Modeling forest fragmentation with artificial neural networks and cellular‐automata Markov‐chain for improved environmental policy in the southwestern Brazilian Amazon
Authors: Moreira Rodrigo Martins , Lana Marcos , Sieber Stefan , Malheiros Tadeu Fabrício
Published: November 2023

Land degradation and forest fragmentation have been prominent issues in the Amazon since the 1970s, primarily driven by the suppression of primary forests due to land use changes. In this study, we propose an innovative approach by integrating artificial neural networks (ANN) and cellular automata Markov chain (CA‐MA) models to predict future land use and assess the associated forest fragmentation using landscape ecology metrics in the Jamari River Basin. The analysis reveals a significant increase in fragmentation between 1985 and 2018, as evidenced by a rise in the number of fragments from 7162 to 28,170. Moreover, we observed a decrease in the core area from approximately 2.5 million hectares to less than 1 million hectares, accompanied by an increase in edge density from 6 to 18 m.ha−1. Additionally, the average distance between fragments expanded from 66 to 95 m. Highlighting the urgency of addressing this issue, our study emphasizes the necessity of exploring effective strategies within the Brazilian public environmental management system. By utilizing various rural policy planning tools, we aim to tackle unsustainable development and mitigate the adverse impacts of land use changes in the region. In conclusion, this research offers an innovative approach that combines ANN and CA‐MA models to predict land use and assess forest fragmentation, shedding light on the alarming trend of land degradation and providing valuable insights for informed decision‐making and sustainable land management practices.
Roles of Chain Architecture and Polymorphic Form in Tailoring the Properties of Surface‐Roughened Biaxially Oriented Polypropylene Films for Capacitors
Authors: Wang Jinqing , Yao Cheng , Huang Xinghua , Zhang Qin , Wang Ke
Published: November 2023

Surface‐roughened films of biaxially oriented polypropylene (BOPP) are the most common polymeric dielectrics for oil‐immersed capacitors in electrical engineering. How to balance the roughness of film surfaces as well as the mechanical and high‐temperature electrical properties of film ontology remains a challenge. In this study, three grades of electrical specialized isotactic polypropylene resins with different distributions of molecular mass and stereo‐defects are surveyed for crystalline polymorphic behavior. The relationship of the chain microstructure, film surface topography, and mechanical and electrical properties determined through a comprehensive study of the resins’ chain architecture to the morphology of cast sheets and the characteristics of resultant films is elaborated. The chain features of wide molecular mass distribution and uniform stereo‐defects result in excellent β‐crystallization ability, leading to a fine, roughed topography on the film surface. The narrow distribution of molecular mass and the relatively high tacticity play a positive role in the physico‐mechanical properties of the films, especially in the improvement of breakdown strength at high temperatures. An appropriate chain architecture is vital to achieving the balance between surface topography and bulk performance in surface‐roughened BOPP films.
Minimization of eddy current artifacts in sequences with periodic dynamics
Authors: Flassbeck Sebastian , Assländer Jakob
Published: November 2023

Purpose

To minimize eddy current artifacts in periodic pulse sequences with balanced gradient moments as, for example, used for quantitative MRI.

Theory and Methods

Eddy current artifacts in balanced sequences result from large jumps in k‐space. In quantitative MRI, one often samples some spin dynamics repeatedly while acquiring different parts of k‐space. We swap individual k‐space lines between different repetitions in order to minimize jumps in temporal succession without changing the overall trajectory. This reordering can be formulated as a traveling salesman problem and we tackle the discrete optimization with a simulated annealing algorithm.

Results

Compared to the default ordering, we observe a substantial reduction of artifacts in the reconstructed images and the derived quantitative parameter maps. Comparing two variants of our algorithm, one that resembles the pairing approach originally proposed by Bieri et al., and one that minimizes all k‐space jumps equally, we observe slightly lower artifact levels in the latter.

Conclusion

The proposed reordering scheme effectively reduces eddy current artifacts in sequences with balanced gradient moments. In contrast to previous approaches, we capitalize on the periodicity of the sampled signal dynamics, enabling both efficient k‐space sampling and minimizing artifacts caused by eddy currents.
Main results of permafrost monitoring in the French Alps through the PermaFrance network over the period 2010–2022
Authors: Magnin Florence , Ravanel Ludovic , Bodin Xavier , Deline Philip , Malet Emmanuel , Krysiecki Jean‐Michel , Schoeneich Philippe
Published: November 2023

This study presents data from the first years of permafrost monitoring in boreholes in the French Alps that started at the end of 2009 in the framework of the PermaFrance network. Nine boreholes are instrumented, among which six monitored permafrost temperature and active layer thickness (ALT) over >10 years. Ice‐poor and cold permafrost in high‐elevation north‐facing rock walls has warmed by up to >1°C at 10 m depth over the reference decade (2011–2020), whereas ice‐rich permafrost (rock glacier) temperatures remained stable. ALT has increased at four of the five boreholes for which decadal data are available. Summer 2015 marks a turning point in ALT regime and greatest ALT values were observed in 2022 (available for six boreholes), but thawing intensity did not show an obvious change. At one site with a layer of coarse blocks about 2 m thick, ALT was stable over 2018–2022 and response to the hottest years was dampened. Linear trends suggest an ALT increase of 2 m per decade for some ice‐poor rock walls, independently of their thermal state. The data reveal a variety of permafrost patterns and evolution with significant intraregional and local differences. Snow modulates the response to air temperature signal in various ways, with an important effect on near‐surface temperature trends and ALT: early snow melting in spring favors an ALT increase in rock walls. Maintaining these monitoring systems and understanding the physical processes controlling heterogeneous responses to climate signals is crucial to better assess permafrost dynamics and to adapt to its consequences.
Assessing the sterility and quality of gamma‐irradiated pepper weevils, Anthonomus eugenii (Coleoptera: Curculionidae), toward the development of the sterile insect technique
Authors: Basso Jacob V , Labbe Roselyne , Scott‐Dupree Cynthia
Published: November 2023

BACKGROUND

The pepper weevil (PW), Anthonomus eugenii, is an economically significant pest of cultivated Capsicum spp. pepper crops in North America where it remains a challenge to manage because of its cryptic immature life stages. The sterile insect technique (SIT) is a genetic pest management tactic that relies on the release of insects that have been sterilized with ionizing radiation to lower the population reproductive rate. Toward developing an effective PW‐SIT program, this study has, for the first time, investigated the effects of gamma irradiation on the sterility and survival of this species.

RESULTS

Among the array of doses tested, we found that pupal PW males and females irradiated at 110 Gy produced no adult offspring. Furthermore, females mated with a male irradiated at 110 Gy had high egg sterility (97.3%), and irradiated females nearly completely failed to lay eggs (97.5%). Individuals irradiated at this dose had a shortened lifespan (lethal time to 50% mortality values of 12 and 11 days for males and females, respectively) and quantitatively reduced spontaneous flight activity. The eclosion rate of PW pupae was not significantly reduced by any radiation treatment.

CONCLUSION

This study suggests that PWs irradiated at a gamma radiation dose of 110 Gy as pupae could feasibly be used in a PW‐SIT program, because both males and females were 100% sterile at this dose. These findings will inform the development of a SIT program that could considerably improve the sustainability and effectiveness of PW management in greenhouse and field pepper crops worldwide. © 2023 His Majesty the King in Right of Canada and The Authors. Pest Management Science published by John Wiley & Sons Ltd on behalf of Society of Chemical Industry. Reproduced with the permission of the Minister of Agriculture and Agri Food Canada.
Effect of Metal Substitution on the Optical Band Gap of MIL‐125‐NH2
Authors: Wang Zhiyue , Wang Zhaolong , Pang Yangyang , Wang Xue , Chen Yunlin
Published: November 2023

Targeted modification of optical band gap is an important step for photovoltaic, sensing, and photocatalytic applications of metal‐organic frameworks (MOFs). Herein, effective optical band gap modification of MIL‐125‐NH2 has been realized by replacing titanium(Ti) in MIL‐125‐NH2 with cobalt(Co), iron(Fe), and copper(Cu), respectively. Optical band gaps of the original MIL‐125‐NH2, MIL‐125‐NH2‐Co25%, MIL‐125‐NH2‐Cu25%, and MIL‐125‐NH2‐Fe12.5% were determined by diffuse reflectance spectra (DRS) to be 2.62 eV, 2.06 eV, 2.2 eV, and 2.3 eV, respectively. The mechanism of band gap variation of MIL‐125‐NH2 was discussed to be related to the band gap and conduction band minimum of metal oxides of doped metals. The photoluminescence (PL) properties of the materials was investigated, and the PL performance was influenced by doping metals: MIL‐125‐NH2‐Co25%, MIL‐125‐NH2‐Cu25%, and MIL‐125‐NH2‐Fe12.5% exhibited red shifted compared to the original MIL‐125‐NH2. Moreover, the intensity of the PL was found to be decreased with doping metals. The origins of luminescence tunability was discussed accordingly.
Synthesis, Characterization and Biological Evaluation of New Enamide Fluorinated‐Schiff Base Derivatives as Potential Cytotoxic and Apoptosis‐Inducing Agents
Authors: Abd El‐Lateef Hany M. , Toson Eslam E. M. , Abu Almaaty Ali H. , Saleem Rasha Mohammed , Maghrabi Ali Hassan Ahmed , El‐Sayed Elsherbiny H. , Zaki Islam , Youssef Magdy M.
Published: November 2023

In search for new anticancer candidates, a new series of enamide fluorinated‐Schiff base derivatives were synthesized and confirmed by spectroscopic techniques as well as elemental microanalyses. The newly prepared compounds were evaluated for their cytotoxic activity on MCF‐7 breast adenocarcinoma cell line. The benzaldehyde Schiff base and furfural Schiff base derivatives (IC50=3.67±0.15 and 2.06±0.08 μM, respectively) were found to be the most potent molecules of all the tested derivatives against the MCF‐7 cancer cells. Additionally, the furfural Schiff base compound was more potent than colchicine by 1.74‐fold, while benzaldehyde Schiff base compound was nearly equipotent with colchicine as standard drug. In addition to tubulin inhibition activity, enamide‐furfural Schiff base molecule caused cell cycle arrest in MCF‐7 cells at the G2/M phase (2.62‐fold more than control MCF‐7) and induced apoptotic death (48.97‐fold compared to untreated MCF‐7 control) as indicated by FACS analysis. Furthermore, apoptotic studies conducted by enamide‐furfural Schiff base derivative were accomplished by downregulation of mitochondrial membrane potential by 1.56‐fold relative to control untreated cells.
In Situ Reconnection of Nanoelectrodes Over 20 nm Gaps on Polyimide Substrate
Authors: Zhang Xubin , Zhao Zhibin , Zhang Surong , Adijiang Adila , Zhao Tianran , Tan Min , Zhao Xueyan , Hu Qihong , Wang Maoning , Lee Takhee , Scheer Elke , Xiang Dong
Published: November 2023

The current densities in nowadays electronic circuitry are close to the electromigration threshold that may result in the fracture of circuits due to electromigration, hampering further miniaturization of integrated chips. Flexible electronic devices, which use a flexible material instead of rigid silicon as a substrate, might be prone to fracture problems also due to obligatory mechanical deformation. However, finding the location of fractured nanogaps and in situ repairing such atomic‐scale fractured circuits are currently unavailable. To this end, a method is developed to in situ heal nanogaps as large as 20 nm between metallic electrodes on the polyimide (PI)‐covered substrate via voltage sweeping, which is typically employed to generate nanogaps rather than heal nanogaps. The reconnection of nanoelectrodes is realized only when the underneath PI is treated with oxygen plasma etching. Assisted by X‐ray photoelectron spectroscopy, it is revealed that inductively coupled O2 plasma etching not only changes the surface topography but also changes the chemical binding structure of PI, which in return can be used to immobilize metal atoms migrating along the PI surface to gradually close the nanogap, providing an in situ self‐healing paradigm for repairing the atomic scale fractured circuits.
Giving feedback using “Speedback”
Authors: Freebairn‐Smith Laura
Published: November 2023

In this month's column, we look at giving and receiving feedback and one innovative and supportive way to engage your team in sharing feedback with one another.
Genotypic and allelic frequencies of progressive rod‐cone degeneration and other main variants associated with progressive retinal atrophy in Italian dogs
Authors: Ghilardi Sara , Bagardi Mara , Frattini Stefano , Barbariga Giulia E. , Brambilla Paola G. , Minozzi Giulietta , Polli Michele
Published: November 2023

Background

Progressive retinal atrophy (PRA) is a group of canine inherited retinal disorders affecting up to 100 breeds. Genetic tests are available. The aim of this study was to retrospectively evaluate the genetic variants associated with PRA among dogs residing in Italy.

Methods

Genetic data of 20 variants associated with different forms of PRA were collected through DNA tests over a 10‐year period for several dog breeds in the Italian canine population. Allelic and genotypic frequencies were calculated.

Results

A total of 1467 DNA tests were conducted for 1180 dogs. Progressive rod‐cone degeneration (PRCD) was the most tested form of PRA, with 58.15% (n = 853) of the DNA tests. Among the widespread breeds in Italy, Labrador retrievers and toy poodles showed a prevalence of heterozygous carriers higher than 15%. Among the others, 175 DNA tests for golden retrievers (GR) showed a prevalence of heterozygous carriers of 13.04% (n = 12) for GR‐PRA1 and 8.43% (n = 7) for GR‐PRA2. The zwergschnauzer breed was tested for the type B and/or the type B1 forms of PRA with 25.32% (n = 20) heterozygous carriers and 0%, respectively.

Conclusion

The study offers an overview of the prevalence of PRCD and other PRA forms within some of the most popular breeds in Italy.
Holographic thermal correlators for hyperbolic CFTs
Authors: Bhatta Atanu , Chakrabortty Shankhadeep , Mandal Taniya , Maurya Arpit
Published: November 2023

Abstract

We use holography to compute the exact form of retarded Green’s functions for a scalar operator with conformal dimension ∆ in a thermal CFT and in its related counterpart with chemical potential in R1 × H3. In our analysis, we recast the wave equation of a scalar field in the normal form of Heun’s equation in the dual gravity theories described by the AdS hyperbolic blackhole and its charged version. Heun’s equation is identified to the semiclassical limit of the BPZ equation for a five-point correlator with one degenerate field insertion in the Liouville theory on the Riemann sphere. The crossing symmetry of conformal block in the Liouville theory eventually gives rise to a set of connection formulas among the solutions of Heun’s equation evaluated at different regular singularities. We use the connection formula to reproduce the leading order behaviors of the scalar field near the horizon as well as near the boundary and achieve the exact form of the retarded thermal Green’s function. We show a recipe to obtain the exact retarded Green’s function for a thermal CFT dual to AdS blackbrane from a high-temperature limit accompanied by a complex mapping on AdS hyperbolic blackhole. Moreover, we show the retarded Green’s function for the boundary CFT of Rindler AdS spacetime admits a free integer parameter.
Meson spectrum of SU(2) QCD1+1 with quarks in Large representations
Authors: Kaushal Anurag , Prabhakar Naveen S. , Wadia Spenta R.
Published: November 2023

Abstract

We consider SU(2) quantum chromodynamics in 1 + 1 dimensions with a single quark in the spin J representation of the gauge group and study the theory in the large J limit where the gauge coupling g2 → 0 and J → ∞ with λ = g2J2 fixed. We work with a Dirac spinor field for arbitrary J, and with a Majorana spinor for integer J since the integer spin representations of SU(2) are real, and analyze the two cases separately.

The theory is reformulated in terms of global colour non-singlet fermion bilocal operators which satisfy a W∞ × U(2J + 1) algebra. In the large J limit, the dynamics of the bilocal fields is captured by fluctuations along a particular coadjoint orbit of the W∞ algebra. We show that the global colour-singlet sector of the bilocal field fluctuations satisfy the same integral equation for meson wavefunctions that appears in the ’t Hooft model. For Majorana spinors in the integer spin J representation, the Majorana condition projects out half of the meson spectrum, as a result of which the linear spacing of the asymptotic meson spectrum for Majorana fermions is double that of Dirac fermions. The Majorana condition also projects out the zero mass bound state that is present for the Dirac quark at zero quark mass.

We also consider the formulation of the model in terms of local charge densities and compute the quark spectral function in the large J limit: we see evidence for the absence of a pole in the quark propagator.
Whole mitochondrial genome sequencing provides new insights into the phylogeography of loggerhead turtles (Caretta caretta) in the Mediterranean Sea
Authors: Tolve Livia , Iannucci Alessio , Garofalo Luisa , Ninni Andrea , Capobianco Dondona Andrea , Ceciarini Ilaria , Cocumelli Cristiano , De Lucia Alessandra , Falconi Mattia , Formia Angela , Iacovelli Federico , Mancusi Cecilia , Marchiori Erica , Marsili Letizia , Mingozzi Toni , Nannarelli Stefano , Natali Chiara , Terracciano Giuliana , Zuffi Marco A. L. , Novelletto Andrea , Ciofi Claudio
Published: November 2023

Population structure and phylogeography of the loggerhead sea turtle (Caretta caretta) have so far been assessed mainly by mitochondrial DNA (mtDNA) single-gene sequencing studies. However, phylogenetic relationships amongst matrilines, genetic characterisation of rookeries and mixed-stock analyses have suffered from the limited resolution obtained by comparison of relatively short sequences such as from the mtDNA control region. Whole mitogenome sequencing can significantly improve population genetics, particularly in marine organisms showing female natal philopatry. Despite mitogenomics becoming increasingly common in biodiversity monitoring and conservation, only a few complete mitogenomes are available for C. caretta. In this study, we sequenced the complete mtDNA of 61 loggerhead turtles sampled between 2008 and 2021 along the Italian coastline and central Mediterranean Sea. We assigned complete mtDNA haplotypes to dead embryos and bycatch samples, and introduced a first nomenclature for loggerhead mitogenomes. Analysis of mtDNA diversity, Maximum Parsimony and Bayesian phylogenetic reconstruction allowed improved resolution of lineages with respect to studies reporting on partial mtDNA control region sequence comparisons, and we were able to further inform previous analyses on loggerhead ancestry based on control region haplogroups. Overall, whole mitogenome analysis has potential for considerable improvement of evolutionary history and phylogeographic investigations as well as mixed-stock surveys of loggerhead turtles.
Does third molar agenesis influence the second lower molar mineralization?
Authors: Ferreira C. , Caldas I. M.
Published: November 2023

Different studies have established that the mineralization stages of the second mandibular molar can be used in forensic age estimation. Nowadays, the estimate’s accuracy is an ethical concern, producing as few false positives (individuals incorrectly classified as older than a determined threshold) and false negatives (individuals incorrectly classified as younger than a determined threshold) as possible. Some have hypothesized that changes in teeth number may influence tooth mineralization, altering the age estimate process. This paper analyzes whether third molar agenesis affects the second mandibular molar mineralization time frame. To do so, 355 orthopantomograms were evaluated for third molar agenesis, and the second mandibular molar mineralization stage was assessed using the Demirjian stages. Student’s t-test was used to compare the difference in the mean age at which the various stages of 37 mineralization were reached in the groups with and without third molar agenesis. The level of statistical significance was set at 5%. The results pointed to a delay in second mandibular molar mineralization in the case of agenesis, suggesting the need to consider this when estimating age using dental techniques.
Leptomeningeal spread in high-grade gliomas: Is surgery or adjuvant therapy after leptomeningeal spread associated with survival benefit?
Authors: Zhong Shuai , Fu Xiaojun , Wu Chenxing , Liu Rui , Li Shouwei
Published: November 2023

Purpose

This study aimed to identify prognostic factors associated with survival in patients with high-grade glioma (HGG) after leptomeningeal spread (LMS) and to clarify the behavior and treatment response.

Methods

This retrospective study included 114 patients with HGGs diagnosed with LMS from August 1, 2014, to July 30, 2021, at our institution. Clinical, radiological, pathological, and outcome data were collected. Univariable and multivariable Cox regression were used for overall survival (OS) and post-LMS survival (PLS) analysis.

Results

The median OS was 17.0 months and the median PLS was 6.0 months. Gross total resection (GTR) after LMS diagnosis and pathology grade III were statistically significantly associated with longer OS in all patients. GTR after LMS diagnosis and nodular LMS were independent favorable prognostic factors on PLS. Non-adjuvant therapy after LMS diagnosis was associated with shorter OS and PLS. In glioblastoma (GBM) subgroup analysis, GTR after LMS diagnosis and secondary LMS were independent favorable prognostic factors on OS. Karnofsky Performance Status (KPS) of ≥80 at LMS diagnosis, chemotherapy after LMS and intrathecal methotrexate (MTX) treatment were statistically significantly associated with longer PLS. MRI type II was a predictor of shorter PLS.

Conclusion

The treatment of patients with glioma after LMS diagnosis is very challenging and limited. Safe GTR of tumor and subsequent adjuvant therapy after LMS remains a powerful weapon to improve survival for HGG patients with LMS. Chemotherapy and Intrathecal MTX treatment are feasible treatments after LMS. The extent of tumor dissemination may affect the survival after LMS.
Estimation of quadrature errors for layer potentials evaluated near surfaces with spherical topology
Authors: Sorgentone Chiara , Tornberg Anna-Karin
Published: November 2023

Numerical simulations with rigid particles, drops, or vesicles constitute some examples that involve 3D objects with spherical topology. When the numerical method is based on boundary integral equations, the error in using a regular quadrature rule to approximate the layer potentials that appear in the formulation will increase rapidly as the evaluation point approaches the surface and the integrand becomes sharply peaked. To determine when the accuracy becomes insufficient, and a more costly special quadrature method should be used, error estimates are needed. In this paper, we present quadrature error estimates for layer potentials evaluated near surfaces of genus 0, parametrized using a polar and an azimuthal angle, discretized by a combination of the Gauss-Legendre and the trapezoidal quadrature rules. The error estimates involve no unknown coefficients, but complex-valued roots of a specified distance function. The evaluation of the error estimates in general requires a one-dimensional local root-finding procedure, but for specific geometries, we obtain analytical results. Based on these explicit solutions, we derive simplified error estimates for layer potentials evaluated near spheres; these simple formulas depend only on the distance from the surface, the radius of the sphere, and the number of discretization points. The usefulness of these error estimates is illustrated with numerical examples.
Modeling and shadowing paraconsistent BDI agents
Authors: Dunin-Kęplicz Barbara , Szałas Andrzej
Published: November 2023

The Bdi model of rational agency has been studied for over three decades. Many robust multiagent systems have been developed, and a number of Bdi logics have been studied. Following this intensive development phase, the importance of integrating Bdi models with inconsistency handling and revision theory have been emphasized. There is also a demand for a tighter connection between Bdi-based implementations and Bdi logics. In this paper, we address these postulates by introducing a novel, paraconsistent logical Bdi model close to implementation, with building blocks that can be represented as Sql/rule-based databases. Importantly, tractability is achieved by reasoning as querying. This stands in a sharp contrast to the high complexity of known Bdi logics. We also extend belief shadowing, a shallow and lightweight alternative to deep and computationally demanding belief revision, to encompass agents’ motivational attitudes.
Minor effects of no-till treatment on GHG emissions of boreal cultivated peat soil
Authors: Honkanen Henri , Kekkonen Hanna , Heikkinen Jaakko , Kaseva Janne , Lång Kristiina
Published: November 2023

The greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions of spring cereal monoculture under long-term conventional tillage (CT) and no-till (NT) treatment established in 2018 were measured in a peatland in Southwestern Finland during the period 2018–2021. Nitrous oxide (N2O), carbon dioxide (CO2) and methane (CH4) fluxes were measured with chambers approximately every two weeks throughout the period under study. Net ecosystem exchange was measured during the growing seasons, and hourly ecosystem respiration (ER) and gross photosynthesis (GP) were modelled with empirical models. Across the whole period, annual emissions were 6.8 ± 1.2 and 5.7 ± 1.2 Mg CO2–C ha −1 yr−1 (net ecosystem carbon balance), 8.8 ± 2.0 and 7.1 ± 2.0 kg N2O–N ha−1 yr−1, and − 0.43 ± 0.31 and − 0.40 ± 0.31 kg CH4-C ha−1 yr−1 for CT and NT, respectively. The global warming potential was lower in NT (p = 0.045), and it ranged from 26 to 34 Mg CO2 eq. ha−1 yr−1 in CT and from 19 to 31 Mg CO2 eq. ha−1 yr−1 in NT. The management effect on the rates of single GHGs was not consistent over the years. Higher GP was found in CT in 2019 and in NT in 2020. Differences in ER between treatments occurred mostly outside the growing season, especially after ploughing, but the annual rates did not differ statistically. NT reduced the N2O emissions by 31% compared to CT in 2020 (p = 0.044) while there were no differences between the treatments in other years. The results indicate that NT may have potential to reduce slightly CO2 and N2O emissions from cultivated peat soil, but the results originate from the first three years after a management change from CT to NT, and there is still a lack of long-term results on NT on cultivated peat soils.
Testing of tissue specimens obtained from SARS-CoV-2 nasopharyngeal swab-positive donors
Authors: Greenwald Melissa A. , Namin Shabnam , Zajdowicz Jan , Jones Alyce Linthurst , Fritts Linda , Kuehnert Matthew J. , Miller Christopher J. , Ray Gregory
Published: November 2023

Risk for transmission of SARS-CoV-2 through allogeneic human tissue transplantation is unknown. To further evaluate the risk of virus transmission, tissues were obtained from deceased donors who had tested positive for SARS-CoV-2 RNA via nasopharyngeal swab. This study evaluated an array of human tissues recovered for transplantation, including bone, tendon, skin, fascia lata, vascular tissues, and heart valves. Tissue samples and plasma or serum samples, if available, were tested for viral RNA (vRNA) using a real time PCR system for the presence of virus RNA. All samples were tested in quadruplicate for both subgenomic (sgRNA) and genomic (gRNA) RNA encoding the SARS-CoV-2 nucleocapsid gene. Amplification of a cellular housekeeping gene served as the positive control for every sample. A total of 47 tissue samples from 17 donors were tested for SARS-CoV-2 RNA. Four donors had plasma or serum available for paired testing. SARS-CoV-2 RNA was not detected from any tissue or plasma/serum sample tested. Based on these findings, risk of transmission through the transplantation of tissue types studied from SARS-CoV-2 infected donors is likely to be low.
A corpus of Persian literary text
Authors: Raji Shahab , Alikhani Malihe , de Melo Gerard , Stone Matthew
Published: November 2023

Persian poetry has profoundly affected all periods of Persian literature and the literature of other countries as well. It is a fundamental vehicle for expressing Persian culture and political opinion. This paper presents a corpus of Persian literary text mainly focusing on poetry, covering the ninth to twenty-first century annotated for century and style, with additional partial annotation of rhetorical figures. Our resource is the largest and the most diverse corpus available in Persian literary text, with a particularly broad temporal scope. This allows us to conduct several computational experiments to analyze poetic styles, authors and time periods, as well as context shifts over time, for which we rely both on supervised models and on Persian poetry-specific heuristics. The corpus, the tools, and experiments described in this paper can be used not only for digital humanities studies of Persian literature but also for processing Persian texts in general, as well as in other broader cross-linguistic applications.