bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Evolutionary game analysis of environmental pollution control under the government regulation
Authors: Zhou Kui , Wang Qi , Tang Junnan
Published: January 2022

This paper studied a tripartite evolutionary game of stakeholders in environmental pollution control. Most previous studies on this issue are limited to a focus on system dynamics with two-party game problems and lack a spatial analysis of strategy evolution. The parameters adopted are too few, and the influencing factors considered are too simple. The purpose of the paper is to introduce more parameters to study, which will have an important impact on the strategy choices of participants and the evolution path of the strategy over time. We construct a tripartite evolutionary game model of sewage enterprises, governments and the public. We establish a payment matrix and replicator equations as our method, and we also implement parameter simulations in MATLAB. In summary, we found that the reward and punishment mechanism plays an important role in environmental pollution control. Specifically: intensifying rewards and penalties will help encourage sewage enterprises to meet the discharge standard and the public to participate in pollution control action. However, increased rewards will reduce government's willingness to adopt incentive strategies; Government's reward for public's participation in the action must be greater than the increased cost of participation; Reducing the cost of sewage enterprise can also encourage them to implement standard emissions. The research presented in this paper further improves standard emissions and designs reasonable reward and punishment mechanism.
Nationwide cross-sectional survey of patients with relapsing polychondritis in 2019 demonstrates reduction of airway involvement compared with that in 2009
Authors: Shimizu Jun , Yamano Yoshihisa , Kawahata Kimito , Suzuki Noboru
Published: January 2022

We conducted retrospective cohort studies of patients with relapsing polychondritis (RP) twice in 2009 and 2019, using a physician questionnaire. We compared the patients’ clinical statuses between the years. Age and gender were comparable between the two surveys. Mean disease duration was longer in 2019 survey (8.3 years) than that in 2009 survey (4.8 years, P < 0.001). The mortality rate declined in 2019 survey compared with those in 2009 survey (from 9.2 to 1.6%, P < 0.001). Incidence of airway involvement decreased in 2019 survey compared with that in 2009 survey (from 49 to 37%, P = 0.012). In 2019 survey, we found more frequent use of biological agents and immunosuppressants in patients with airway involvement. When we focused on RP patients with airway involvement, physicians in 2019 chose methotrexate and calcineurin inhibitors preferentially, compared with azathioprine and cyclophosphamide. Of note is that increased use of infliximab was observed in RP patients with airway involvement, but not in those without. Reduction of airway involvement and mortality in patients with RP was observed in 2019 survey. The reduction may associate with the frequent use of biologics including infliximab in RP patients with airway involvement.
Large hemispheric differences in the Hadley cell strength variability due to ocean coupling
Authors: Chemke Rei
Published: January 2022

By modulating the distribution of heat, precipitation and moisture, the Hadley cell holds large climate impacts at low and subtropical latitudes. Here we show that the interannual variability of the annual mean Hadley cell strength is ~ 30% less in the Northern Hemisphere than in the Southern Hemisphere. Using a hierarchy of ocean coupling experiments, we find that the smaller variability in the Northern Hemisphere stems from dynamic ocean coupling, which has opposite effects on the variability of the Hadley cell in the Southern and Northern Hemispheres; it acts to increase the variability in the Southern Hemisphere, which is inversely linked to equatorial upwelling, and reduce the variability in the Northern Hemisphere, which shows a direct relation with the subtropical wind-driven overturning circulation. The important role of ocean coupling in modulating the tropical circulation suggests that further investigation should be carried out to better understand the climate impacts of ocean-atmosphere coupling at low latitudes.
The language of crisis: spatiotemporal effects of COVID-19 pandemic dynamics on health crisis communications by political leaders
Authors: Mandl Benjamin J. , Reis Ben Y.
Published: January 2022

In times of crisis, communication by leaders is essential for mobilizing an effective public response. During the COVID-19 pandemic, compliance with public health guidelines has been critical for the prevention of infections and deaths. We assembled a corpus of over 1500 pandemic-related speeches, containing over 4 million words, delivered by all 50 US state governors during the initial months of the COVID-19 pandemic. We analyzed the semantic, grammatical and linguistic-complexity properties of these speeches, and examined their relationships to COVID-19 case rates over space and time. We found that as COVID-19 cases rose, governors used stricter language to issue guidance, employed greater negation to defend their actions and highlight prevailing uncertainty, and used more extreme descriptive adjectives. As cases surged to their highest levels, governors used shorter words with fewer syllables. Investigating and understanding such characteristic responses to stress is important for improving effective public communication during major health crises.
Improved clearing method contributes to deep imaging of plant organs
Authors: Sakamoto Yuki , Ishimoto Anna , Sakai Yuuki , Sato Moeko , Nishihama Ryuichi , Abe Konami , Sano Yoshitake , Furuichi Teiichi , Tsuji Hiroyuki , Kohchi Takayuki , Matsunaga Sachihiro
Published: January 2022

Tissue clearing methods are increasingly essential for the microscopic observation of internal tissues of thick biological organs. We previously developed TOMEI, a clearing method for plant tissues; however, it could not entirely remove chlorophylls nor reduce the fluorescent signal of fluorescent proteins. Here, we developed an improved TOMEI method (iTOMEI) to overcome these limitations. First, a caprylyl sulfobetaine was determined to efficiently remove chlorophylls from Arabidopsis thaliana seedlings without GFP quenching. Next, a weak alkaline solution restored GFP fluorescence, which was mainly lost during fixation, and an iohexol solution with a high refractive index increased sample transparency. These procedures were integrated to form iTOMEI. iTOMEI enables the detection of much brighter fluorescence than previous methods in tissues of A. thaliana, Oryza sativa, and Marchantia polymorpha. Moreover, a mouse brain was also efficiently cleared by the iTOMEI-Brain method within 48 h, and strong fluorescent signals were detected in the cleared brain.
Disrupted stepwise functional brain organization in overweight individuals
Authors: Lee Hyebin , Kwon Junmo , Lee Jong-eun , Park Bo-yong , Park Hyunjin
Published: January 2022

Functional hierarchy establishes core axes of the brain, and overweight individuals show alterations in the networks anchored on these axes, particularly in those involved in sensory and cognitive control systems. However, quantitative assessments of hierarchical brain organization in overweight individuals are lacking. Capitalizing stepwise functional connectivity analysis, we assess altered functional connectivity in overweight individuals relative to healthy weight controls along the brain hierarchy. Seeding from the brain regions associated with obesity phenotypes, we conduct stepwise connectivity analysis at different step distances and compare functional degrees between the groups. We find strong functional connectivity in the somatomotor and prefrontal cortices in both groups, and both converge to transmodal systems, including frontoparietal and default-mode networks, as the number of steps increased. Conversely, compared with the healthy weight group, overweight individuals show a marked decrease in functional degree in somatosensory and attention networks across the steps, whereas visual and limbic networks show an increasing trend. Associating functional degree with eating behaviors, we observe negative associations between functional degrees in sensory networks and hunger and disinhibition-related behaviors. Our findings suggest that overweight individuals show disrupted functional network organization along the hierarchical axis of the brain and these results provide insights for behavioral associations.
Structure of putative tumor suppressor ALDH1L1
Authors: Tsybovsky Yaroslav , Sereda Valentin , Golczak Marcin , Krupenko Natalia I. , Krupenko Sergey A.
Published: January 2022

Putative tumor suppressor ALDH1L1, the product of natural fusion of three unrelated genes, regulates folate metabolism by catalyzing NADP+-dependent conversion of 10-formyltetrahydrofolate to tetrahydrofolate and CO2. Cryo-EM structures of tetrameric rat ALDH1L1 revealed the architecture and functional domain interactions of this complex enzyme. Highly mobile N-terminal domains, which remove formyl from 10-formyltetrahydrofolate, undergo multiple transient inter-domain interactions. The C-terminal aldehyde dehydrogenase domains, which convert formyl to CO2, form unusually large interfaces with the intermediate domains, homologs of acyl/peptidyl carrier proteins (A/PCPs), which transfer the formyl group between the catalytic domains. The 4′-phosphopantetheine arm of the intermediate domain is fully extended and reaches deep into the catalytic pocket of the C-terminal domain. Remarkably, the tetrameric state of ALDH1L1 is indispensable for catalysis because the intermediate domain transfers formyl between the catalytic domains of different protomers. These findings emphasize the versatility of A/PCPs in complex, highly dynamic enzymatic systems.
Real time imaging of single extracellular vesicle pH regulation in a microfluidic cross-flow filtration platform
Authors: Riazanski Vladimir , Mauleon Gerardo , Lucas Kilean , Walker Samuel , Zimnicka Adriana M. , McGrath James L. , Nelson Deborah J.
Published: January 2022

Extracellular vesicles (EVs) are cell-derived membranous structures carrying transmembrane proteins and luminal cargo. Their complex cargo requires pH stability in EVs while traversing diverse body fluids. We used a filtration-based platform to capture and stabilize EVs based on their size and studied their pH regulation at the single EV level. Dead-end filtration facilitated EV capture in the pores of an ultrathin (100 nm thick) and nanoporous silicon nitride (NPN) membrane within a custom microfluidic device. Immobilized EVs were rapidly exposed to test solution changes driven across the backside of the membrane using tangential flow without exposing the EVs to fluid shear forces. The epithelial sodium-hydrogen exchanger, NHE1, is a ubiquitous plasma membrane protein tasked with the maintenance of cytoplasmic pH at neutrality. We show that NHE1 identified on the membrane of EVs is functional in the maintenance of pH neutrality within single vesicles. This is the first mechanistic description of EV function on the single vesicle level.
[13C]bicarbonate labelled from hyperpolarized [1-13C]pyruvate is an in vivo marker of hepatic gluconeogenesis in fasted state
Authors: Can Emine , Bastiaansen Jessica A. M. , Couturier Dominique-Laurent , Gruetter Rolf , Yoshihara Hikari A. I. , Comment Arnaud
Published: January 2022

Hyperpolarized [1-13C]pyruvate enables direct in vivo assessment of real-time liver enzymatic activities by 13C magnetic resonance. However, the technique usually requires the injection of a highly supraphysiological dose of pyruvate. We herein demonstrate that liver metabolism can be measured in vivo with hyperpolarized [1-13C]pyruvate administered at two- to three-fold the basal plasma concentration. The flux through pyruvate dehydrogenase, assessed by 13C-labeling of bicarbonate in the fed condition, was found to be saturated or partially inhibited by supraphysiological doses of hyperpolarized [1-13C]pyruvate. The [13C]bicarbonate signal detected in the liver of fasted rats nearly vanished after treatment with a phosphoenolpyruvate carboxykinase (PEPCK) inhibitor, indicating that the signal originates from the flux through PEPCK. In addition, the normalized [13C]bicarbonate signal in fasted untreated animals is dose independent across a 10-fold range, highlighting that PEPCK and pyruvate carboxylase are not saturated and that hepatic gluconeogenesis can be directly probed in vivo with hyperpolarized [1-13C]pyruvate.
Prediction of heptagonal bipyramidal nonacoordination in highly viable [OB-M©B7O7-BO]− (M = Fe, Ru, Os) complexes
Authors: Jin Bo , Li Hai-Ru , Wei Zhihong , Yan Miao , Yuan Caixia , Wu Yan-Bo , Li Si-Dian
Published: January 2022

Non-spherical distributions of ligand atoms in coordination complexes are generally unfavorable due to higher repulsion than for spherical distributions. To the best of our knowledge, non-spherical heptagonal bipyramidal nonacoordination is hitherto unreported, because of extremely high repulsion among seven equatorial ligand atoms. Herein, we report the computational prediction of such nonacoordination, which is constructed by the synergetic coordination of an equatorial hepta-dentate centripetal ligand (B7O7) and two axial mono-dentate ligands (-BO) in the gear-like mono-anionic complexes [OB-M©B7O7-BO]– (M = Fe, Ru, Os). The high repulsion among seven equatorial ligand B atoms has been compensated by the strong B–O bonding. These complexes are the dynamically stable (up to 1500 K) global energy minima with the HOMO-LUMO gaps of 7.15 to 7.42 eV and first vertical detachment energies of 6.14 to 6.66 eV (being very high for anions), suggesting their high probability for experimental realization in both gas-phase and condensed phases. The high stability stems geometrically from the surrounded outer-shell oxygen atoms and electronically from meeting the 18e rule as well as possessing the σ + π + δ triple aromaticity. Remarkably, the ligand-metal interactions are governed not by the familiar donation and backdonation interactions, but by the electrostatic interactions and electron-sharing bonding.
Phase-sensitive seeded modulation instability in passive fiber resonators
Authors: Bessin Florent , Naveau Corentin , Conforti Matteo , Kudlinski Alexandre , Szriftgiser Pascal , Mussot Arnaud
Published: January 2022

Modulation instability is one of the most ubiquitous phenomena in physics. Here we investigate the phase-sensitive properties of modulation instability with harmonic seeding in passive fiber resonators. Theoretical investigations based on the Lugiato−Lefever equation with time dependent pump and a three-wave truncation show that the dynamics of the system is sensitive to the relative phase between input signal, idler, and pump waves. The modulation instability gain can even vanish for a peculiar value of the initial relative phase. An advanced multi-heterodyne measurement technique had been developed to record the real time evolution, round-trip to round-trip, of the power and phase of the output cavity field to confirm these theoretical predictions.
Coexistence and tuning of spin-singlet and triplet transport in spin-filter Josephson junctions
Authors: Ahmad Halima Giovanna , Minutillo Martina , Capecelatro Roberto , Pal Avradeep , Caruso Roberta , Passarelli Gianluca , Blamire Mark G. , Tafuri Francesco , Lucignano Procolo , Massarotti Davide
Published: January 2022

The increased capabilities of coupling more and more materials through functional interfaces are paving the way to a series of exciting experiments and extremely advanced devices. Here we focus on the capability of magnetically inhomogeneous superconductor/ferromagnet (S/F) interfaces to generate spin-polarized triplet pairs. We build on previous achievements on spin-filter ferromagnetic Josephson junctions (JJs) and find direct correspondence between neat experimental benchmarks in the temperature behavior of the critical current and theoretical modelling based on microscopic calculations, which allow to determine a posteriori spin-singlet and triplet correlation functions. This kind of combined analysis provides an accurate proof of the coexistence and tunability of singlet and triplet transport. This turns to be a powerful way to model disorder and spin-mixing effects in a JJ to enlarge the space of parameters, which regulate the phenomenology of the Josephson effect and could be applied to a variety of hybrid JJs.
Magnonic superradiant phase transition
Authors: Bamba Motoaki , Li Xinwei , Marquez Peraca Nicolas , Kono Junichiro
Published: January 2022

In the superradiant phase transition (SRPT), coherent light and matter fields are expected to appear spontaneously in a coupled light–matter system in thermal equilibrium. However, such an equilibrium SRPT is forbidden in the case of charge-based light–matter coupling, known as no-go theorems. Here, we show that the low-temperature phase transition of ErFeO3 at a critical temperature of approximately 4 K is an equilibrium SRPT achieved through coupling between Fe3+ magnons and Er3+ spins. By verifying the efficacy of our spin model using realistic parameters evaluated via terahertz magnetospectroscopy and magnetization experiments, we demonstrate that the cooperative, ultrastrong magnon–spin coupling causes the phase transition. In contrast to prior studies on laser-driven non-equilibrium SRPTs in atomic systems, the magnonic SRPT in ErFeO3 occurs in thermal equilibrium in accordance with the originally envisioned SRPT, thereby yielding a unique ground state of a hybrid system in the ultrastrong coupling regime.
Dissipation-driven strange metal behavior
Authors: Caprara Sergio , Castro Carlo Di , Mirarchi Giovanni , Seibold Götz , Grilli Marco
Published: January 2022

Anomalous metallic properties are often observed in the proximity of quantum critical points, with violation of the Fermi Liquid paradigm. We propose a scenario where, near the quantum critical point, dynamical fluctuations of the order parameter with finite correlation length mediate a nearly isotropic scattering among the quasiparticles over the entire Fermi surface. This scattering produces a strange metallic behavior, which is extended to the lowest temperatures by an increase of the damping of the fluctuations. We phenomenologically identify one single parameter ruling this increasing damping when the temperature decreases, accounting for both the linear-in-temperature resistivity and the seemingly divergent specific heat observed, e.g., in high-temperature superconducting cuprates and some heavy-fermion metals.
Asynchronous responses of aquatic ecosystems to hydroclimatic forcing on the Tibetan Plateau
Authors: Aichner Bernhard , Wünnemann Bernd , Callegaro Alice , van der Meer Marcel T. J. , Yan Dada , Zhang Yongzhan , Barbante Carlo , Sachse Dirk
Published: January 2022

High-altitude ecosystems react sensitively to hydroclimatic triggers. Here we evaluated the ecological and hydrological changes in a glacier-influenced lake (Hala Hu, China) since the last glacial. Rapid fluctuations of aquatic biomarker concentrations, ratios, and hydrogen isotope values, from 15 to 14,000 and 8 to 5000 years before present, provided evidence for aquatic regime shifts and changes in lake hydrology. In contrast, most negative hydrogen isotope values of terrestrial biomarkers were observed between 9 and 7,000 years before present. This shows that shifts of vapour sources and increased precipitation amounts were not relevant drivers behind ecosystem changes in the studied lake. Instead, receding glaciers and increased meltwater discharge, driven by higher temperatures, caused the pronounced ecological responses. The shifts within phytoplankton communities in the Late Glacial and mid Holocene illustrate the vulnerability of comparable ecosystems to climatic and hydrological changes. This is relevant to assess future ecological responses to global warming.
Injectable and pH-responsive self-assembled peptide hydrogel for promoted tumor cell uptake and enhanced cancer chemotherapy
Authors: Zhang Jiamin , Lin Wenjing , Yang Lijun , Zhang Aijie , Zhang Yumin , Liu Jinjian , Liu Jianfeng
Published: January 2022

An injectable, pH-responsive, in situ self-assembled drug-peptide hydrogel (MTX-KKFKFEFEF(DA)) for highly efficient local tumor chemotherapy.
The first salicylaldehyde Schiff base organic–inorganic hybrid lead iodide perovskite ferroelectric
Authors: Deng Bin-Bin , Cheng Ting-Ting , Hu Yan-Ting , Cheng Shu-Ping , Huang Chao-Ran , Yu Hang , Wang Zhong-Xia
Published: January 2022

The first salicylaldehyde Schiff base organic–inorganic hybrid perovskite ferroelectric [SAPD]PbI3 (SAPD = 1-((2-hydroxybenzylidene)amino)pyridin-1-ium) has been synthesized, which shows large spontaneous polarization and SHG response.
9-BBN and chloride catalyzed reduction of chlorophosphines to phosphines and diphosphines
Authors: Elser Iris , Andrews Ryan J. , Stephan Douglas W.
Published: January 2022

Commercially available 9-BBN and [Et4N]Cl catalyze reduction of chlorophosphines (R2PCl) with PhSiH3to provide phosphines (R2PH) and diphosphines (P2R4).
Room temperature synthesis of polythioamides from multicomponent polymerization of sulfur, pyridine-activated alkyne, and amines
Authors: Zhang Lihui , Hu Yang , Hu Rongrong , Tang Ben Zhong
Published: January 2022

Through the design of a pyridine-activated diyne monomer, the catalyst-free multicomponent polymerizations of sulfur, aromatic alkyne, and a group of commercially available primary and secondary diamines were realized at room temperature or 40 °C.
RBD conjugate vaccine with a built-in TLR1/2 agonist is highly immunogenic against SARS-CoV-2 and variants of concern
Authors: Zhou Shi-Hao , Zhang Ru-Yan , Zhang Hai-Wei , Liu Yan-Ling , Wen Yu , Wang Jian , Li Yu-Ting , You Zi-Wei , Yin Xu-Guang , Qiu Hong , Gong Rui , Yang Guang-Fu , Guo Jun
Published: January 2022

An RBD-based subunit vaccine with a built-in TLR1/2 agonist induced potent immune responses against SARS-CoV-2 and variants of concern.
A novel NiVP/Pi-based flexible sensor for direct electrochemical ultrasensitive detection of cholesterol
Authors: Thakur Neha , Mandal Debaprasad , Nagaiah Tharamani C.
Published: January 2022

A novel non-enzymatic electrochemical sensor was constructed to achieve a highly selective and ultrasensitive detection of cholesterol and in this way address the problems related to serious coronary heart disease.
Band gap modulation of organic–inorganic Sb(iii) halide by molecular design
Authors: Wang Yan-Ning , Tong Liang , Min-Wan  , Liu Jing-Yuan , Ye Si-Yu , Mensah Abraham , Li Jun-Yi , Chen Li-Zhuang
Published: January 2022

Four organic–inorganic hybrid materials were designed, and a successful adjustment of the band gap was obtained, from 2.933 eV to as low as 2.788 eV, via replacing the third hydrogen atom of the benzene ring in the organic cation with a halogen.
A {Cd4Cl2O14} cluster functionalized sandwich-type tungstoarsenate as a conformation modulator for misfolding Aβ peptides
Authors: Hua Jiai , Wei Xueman , Ma Xiang , Jiao Jinzhe , Chai Binghui , Wu Chenbin , Zhang Changli , Niu Yulan
Published: January 2022

A nanoscale polyoxometalate {[H2dap]6[Cd4Cl2(B-α-AsW9O34)2]} based on tetra-Cd cluster sandwiched trivacant Keggin-type tungstoarsenate was successfully synthesized, which it can modulate the β-sheet-rich fibrils of Aβ peptide efficiently.
Comment on “High-temperature superconductivity in transition metallic hydrides MH11 (M = Mo, W, Nb, and Ta) under high pressure” by M. Du, Z. Zhang, H. Song, H. Yu, T. Cui, V. Z. Kresinc and D. Duan, Phys. Chem. Chem. Phys., 2021, 23, 6717
Authors: Zheng X. H. , Zheng J. X.
Published: January 2022

In superconductors, scattered electrons cover the entire surface of the Fermi sphere (circle in the figure, valency = 3). In the MP scheme in the article concerned, the shaded wedge confines coverage, causing errors in results.
Global potential energy surface and product pair-correlated distributions for the F(2P) + SiH4 reaction – comparison with experiments
Authors: Espinosa-Garcia J.
Published: January 2022

In this paper we study the gas-phase hydrogen abstraction reaction between fluorine atoms and silane in a three-step process: potential energy surface, kinetics and dynamics.
First principles studies on the electronic and contact properties of single layer 2H-MoS2/1T′-MX2 heterojunctions
Authors: Yu Jiao , Xia Cai-Juan , Hu Zhen-Yang , Sun Jian-Ping , Hao Xiao-Peng , Wang Lu-Xia , Fang Qing-Long
Published: January 2022

Two-dimensional (2D) transition metal chalcogenide (TMD) field-effect transistors (FETs) are constructed via in-plane heterojunction contacts between the semiconducting 2H phase (as the channel) and the metallic 1T′ phase (as the electrode).
Synthesis of CxNy-rich polycyclic oligomers from primeval monomers in aqueous media
Authors: Lavado Nieves , de la Concepción Juan García , Cintas Pedro , Babiano Reyes
Published: January 2022

Reactions of cyanamide–glyoxal mixtures under prebiotic aqueous conditions open the door to new carbonaceous nitride structures.
A two-step MM and QM/MM approach to model AIEE of aryloxy benzothiadiazole derivatives for optoelectronic applications
Authors: Samuvel Michael David , Serangolam Krishnasami Sridhar , Vijay Solomon Rajadurai
Published: January 2022

The fluorescence of benzothiadiazole coupled electron acceptors intensifies upon aggregation resulting in near-infrared emission for nitro substituents, as determined using DFT calculations.
Hydroelementation of diynes
Authors: Walkowiak Jędrzej , Szyling Jakub , Franczyk Adrian , Melen Rebecca L.
Published: January 2022

This comprehensive review highlights the hydroelementation reactions of conjugated and separated diynes to various products including enynes, dienes, allenes, polymers or cyclic compounds, and their further transformation to valuable compounds.
MOF-enabled confinement and related effects for chemical catalyst presentation and utilization
Authors: Liu Jian , Goetjen Timothy A. , Wang Qining , Knapp Julia G. , Wasson Megan C. , Yang Ying , Syed Zoha H. , Delferro Massimiliano , Notestein Justin M. , Farha Omar K. , Hupp Joseph T.
Published: January 2022

This review illustrates molecular-scale confinement, containment, isolation, and related concepts to present MOF-centric catalysts and to realize desired chemical transformations.
Synthesis, characterization and evaluation of aqueous Zn-based quantum dots for bioapplications
Authors: Papadopoulou Athina , Chalmpes Nikolaos , Gournis Dimitrios , Kostopoulou Nikoleta , Efthimiadou Eleni K.
Published: January 2022

Quantum dots based on Zn like ZnO, ZnSe, ZnS, and doped ZnS : Mn and ZnS : Cd were developed via a simple sol–gel synthesis in an aqueous solution.
Emerging investigator series: microplastic sources, fate, toxicity, detection, and interactions with micropollutants in aquatic ecosystems – a review of reviews
Authors: Ateia Mohamed , Ersan Gamze , Alalm Mohamed Gar , Boffito Daria Camilla , Karanfil Tanju
Published: January 2022

Hundreds of review studies have been published focusing on microplastics (MPs) and their environmental impacts.
Strong and weak polarization-dependent interactions in connected and disconnected plasmonic nanostructures
Authors: Eschimèse Damien , Vaurette François , Ha Céline , Arscott Steve , Mélin Thierry , Lévêque Gaëtan
Published: January 2022

Left: electric field amplitude (color) and surface charge amplitude (grayscale) of the low-energy quasi-normal modes of the disconnected (top) and connected (bottom) nanostructures. Right: SEM images of the experimental nanostructures.
The Yin and Yang of epigenetics in the field of nanoparticles
Authors: Musolino Elettra , Pagiatakis Christina , Serio Simone , Borgese Marina , Gamberoni Federica , Gornati Rosalba , Bernardini Giovanni , Papait Roberto
Published: January 2022

Evaluating the role of epigenetics in the field of NPs: first, the role of epigenetics in mediating nanotoxicity, and second, the possibility of using NPs for delivery of “epi-drugs” to overcome their limitations.
Fe3O4–SiO2–graphene oxide–amino acid ionic liquid magnetic solid-phase extraction combined with inductively coupled plasma optical emission spectrometry for speciation of Cr(iii) and Cr(vi) in environmental water
Authors: Cang Jinshun , Gu Weixi , Zhang Yuheng , Zhu Xiashi
Published: January 2022

This developed method, based on the combination of functionalized Fe3O4–SiO2–GO–AAIL and ICP-OES, is capable of remarkable selectivity towards Cr(iii).
Sustainable biodiesel generation through catalytic transesterification of waste sources: a literature review and bibliometric survey
Authors: Nabgan Walid , Jalil Aishah Abdul , Nabgan Bahador , Jadhav Arvind H. , Ikram Muhammad , Ul-Hamid Anwar , Ali Mohamad Wijayanuddin , Hassan Nurul Sahida
Published: January 2022

Sustainable renewable energy production is being intensely disputed worldwide because fossil fuel resources are declining gradually.
Hyperpolarised NMR to aid molecular profiling of electronic cigarette aerosols
Authors: Tickner Ben. J. , Komulainen Sanna , Palosaari Sanna , Heikkinen Janne , Lehenkari Petri , Zhivonitko Vladimir V. , Telkki Ville-Veikko
Published: January 2022

SABRE hyperpolarisation enhances NMR signals of low concentration nicotine and acrolein and allows quantitative detection in electronic cigarette aerosol solutions.
PLGA-coated methylene blue nanoparticles for photoacoustic imaging and photodynamic/photothermal cascaded precisely synergistic therapy of tumor
Authors: Xu Xiaomu , Wu Haiyan , Yang Yue , Liu Bo , Tian Jijing , Bao Huihui , Liu Tianlong
Published: January 2022

Photodynamic therapy (PDT) and photothermal therapy (PTT) are synergetic treatment strategies in antitumor treatment to achieve the best anticancer efficacy.
A method to estimate the size of single-chain nanoparticles under severe crowding conditions
Authors: Asenjo-Sanz Isabel , Verde-Sesto Ester , Pomposo José A.
Published: January 2022

A method to estimate the size of single-chain nanoparticles (SCNPs), ring polymers and nanostructured Janus-shaped SCNPs under crowding.
An electric-field regulated crystallization process for enhanced performance of perovskite solar cells
Authors: Wang Man Qi , Zhang Xiaobo , Yan Shaoxin , Nadege Ouedraogo Nabonswende Aida , Zhang Yongzhe , Yan Hui , Han Chang Bao
Published: January 2022

Perovskite solar cells (PSCs) have received tremendous attention because of their advantages of low fabrication cost and rising power conversion efficiency (PCE).
Tuning the through-space charge transfer emission in triarylborane and triarylamine functionalized dipeptide organogels
Authors: Wang Yu , Wang Bowen , Liu Kanglei , Yin Xiaodong , Chen Pangkuan , Wang Nan
Published: January 2022

Intense through space charge transfer interaction has been observed between the BMes2 and carbazolyl functionalized dipeptide based binary gels.
Impact of cationic surfactant-induced DNA compaction on the characteristics of a minor groove bound flavonol
Authors: Halder Dipanjan , Purkayastha Pradipta
Published: January 2022

This report shows the impact of the various stages of cationic surfactant-induced DNA compaction on the excited state intramolecular proton transfer in a model flavonol.
Regulation of the electronic structure of perovskites to improve the electrocatalytic performance for the nitrogen-reduction reaction
Authors: Zhang Yan , Wang Jia-Zhi , Li Kai , Shi Miao-Miao , Wen Zi , Jiao Meng-Gai , Bao Di
Published: January 2022

The correlation between the effective spin magnetic moment of Co-doped LaNiO3 and its catalytic performance for the electrocatalytic nitrogen reduction reaction.
[12]aneN3-Conjugated AIEgens with two-photon imaging properties for synergistic gene/photodynamic therapy in vitro and in vivo
Authors: Liu Xu-Ying , Yang Jing-Bo , Wu Cheng-Yan , Tang Quan , Lu Zhong-Lin , Lin Lan
Published: January 2022

Six amphiphiles consisting of macrocyclic polyamine triazole-[12]aneN3 (M) and tetraphenylethenethiophene modified cyanoacrylate (TTC) moiety linked with alkyl chains (L), have been synthesized for synergetic anticancer gene therapy and photodynamic therapy.
Novel CuBr-assisted graphdiyne synthesis strategy and application for efficient photocatalytic hydrogen evolution
Authors: Li Junke , Li Mei , Li Hongying , Jin Zhiliang
Published: January 2022

This work using CuBr powder as the catalytic substrate instead of copper foil or CuI carried out the synthesis of GDY, which provides a new reference for the synthesis and application of GDY in the field of photocatalytic hydrogen evolution.
Emergent solution based IGZO memristor towards neuromorphic applications
Authors: Martins Raquel Azevedo , Carlos Emanuel , Deuermeier Jonas , Pereira Maria Elias , Martins Rodrigo , Fortunato Elvira , Kiazadeh Asal
Published: January 2022

Solution-based memristors are emergent devices, due to their potential in electrical performance for neuromorphic computing combined with simple and cheap fabrication processes.
(DSF)n-graphene: a carbon semimetal with double stacking faults
Authors: Wei Juan , Kong Weixiang , Xiao Xiaoliang , Xu Wangping , Wang Rui , Gan Li-Yong , Fan Jing , Wu Xiaozhi
Published: January 2022

The grain boundary of (DSF)n-graphene is constructed by a double stacking fault. The Dirac cone of (DSF)n-graphene is mainly contributed by the grain boundaries. The surface states prove that (DSF)n-graphene have nontrivial topological features.
Aminophosphine-derived, high-quality red-emissive InP quantum dots by the use of an unconventional in halide
Authors: Choi Seung-Wan , Kim Hyun-Min , Yoon Suk-Young , Jo Dae-Yeon , Kim Sun-Kyo , Kim Yuri , Park Seong Min , Lee Young-Ju , Yang Heesun
Published: January 2022

Bright-, sharp-emissive red InP quantum dots were synthesized with the combination of In bromide and aminophosphine and further employed as efficient electroluminescent emitters.
An attention‐based cascade R‐CNN model for sternum fracture detection in X‐ray images
Authors: Jia Yang , Wang Haijuan , Chen Weiguang , Wang Yagang , Yang Bin
Published: January 2022

Fracture is one of the most common and unexpected traumas. If not treated in time, it may cause serious consequences such as joint stiffness, traumatic arthritis, and nerve injury. Using computer vision technology to detect fractures can reduce the workload and misdiagnosis of fractures and also improve the fracture detection speed. However, there are still some problems in sternum fracture detection, such as the low detection rate of small and occult fractures. In this work, the authors have constructed a dataset with 1227 labelled X‐ray images for sternum fracture detection. The authors designed a fully automatic fracture detection model based on a deep convolution neural network (CNN). The authors used cascade R‐CNN, attention mechanism, and atrous convolution to optimise the detection of small fractures in a large X‐ray image with big local variations. The authors compared the detection results of YOLOv5 model, cascade R‐CNN and other state‐of‐the‐art models. The authors found that the convolution neural network based on cascade and attention mechanism models has a better detection effect and arrives at an mAP of 0.71, which is much better than using the YOLOv5 model (mAP = 0.44) and cascade R‐CNN (mAP = 0.55).
Role of observable nonlinearities in solar cycle modulation
Authors: Talafha M. , Nagy M. , Lemerle A. , Petrovay K.
Published: January 2022

Context. Two candidate mechanisms have recently been considered with regard to the nonlinear modulation of solar cycle amplitudes. Tilt quenching (TQ) comprises the negative feedback between the cycle amplitude and the mean tilt angle of bipolar active regions relative to the azimuthal direction. Latitude quenching (LQ) consists of a positive correlation between the cycle amplitude and average emergence latitude of active regions.

Aims. Here, we explore the relative importance and the determining factors behind the LQ and TQ effects.

Methods. We systematically probed the degree of nonlinearity induced by TQ and LQ, as well as a combination of both using a grid based on surface flux transport (SFT) models. The roles played by TQ and LQ are also explored in the successful 2×2D dynamo model, which has been optimized to reproduce the statistical behaviour of real solar cycles.

Results. The relative importance of LQ versus TQ is found to correlate with the ratio u0/η in the SFT model grid, where u0 is the meridional flow amplitude and η is the diffusivity. An analytical interpretation of this result is given, further demonstrating that the main underlying parameter is the dynamo effectivity range, λR, which is, in turn, determined by the ratio of equatorial flow divergence to diffusivity. The relative importance of LQ versus TQ is shown to scale as $ C_1+C_2/\lambda_R^2 $. The presence of a latitude quenching effect is seen in the 2×2D dynamo, contributing to the nonlinear modulation by an amount that is comparable to TQ. For other dynamo and SFT models considered in the literature, the contribution of LQ to the modulation covers a broad range – from entirely insignificant to serving as a dominant source of feedback. On the other hand, the contribution of a TQ effect (with the usually assumed amplitude) is never shown to be negligible.
Demonstration and analysis of a steam reforming process driven with solar heat using molten salts as heat transfer fluid
Authors: Giaconia Alberto , Caputo Giampaolo , Di Ascenzi Primo , Monteleone Giulia , Turchetti Luca
Published: January 2022

Solar reforming of biogas or biomethane represents an example hydrogen production from the combination of renewable sources such as biomass and solar energy. Thanks to its relatively low-cost and flexibility, solar-reforming can represent a complementary source of hydrogen where/when the demand exceeds the green hydrogen availability from water electrolysis powered by PV or wind. Molten salts can be used as heat transfer fluid and heat storage medium in solar-driven steam reforming. The main units of the process have been developed at the pilot scale and experimentally tested in a molten salt experimental loop at ENEA-Casaccia research center: a molten salt heater and a molten salt membrane reformer. After experimental validation, techno-economic studies have been carried out to assess the solar reforming technology on commercial scale and exploitation opportunities have been analysed.
Benefits of the multi-modality formulation in hydrogen supply chain modelling
Authors: Parolin Federico , Colbertaldo Paolo , Campanari Stefano
Published: January 2022

Hydrogen is recognized as a key element of future low-carbon energy systems. For proper integration, an adequate delivery infrastructure will be required, to be deployed in parallel to the electric grid and the gas network. This work adopts an optimization model to support the design of a future hydrogen delivery infrastructure, considering production, storage, and transport up to demand points. The model includes two production technologies, i.e., steam reforming with carbon capture and PV-fed electrolysis systems, and three transport modalities, i.e., pipelines, compressed hydrogen trucks, and liquid hydrogen trucks. This study compares a multi-modality formulation, in which the different transport technologies are simultaneously employed and their selection is optimized, with a mono-modality formulation, in which a single transport technology is considered. The assessment looks at the regional case study of Lombardy in Italy, considering a long-term scenario in which an extensive hydrogen supply chain is developed to supply hydrogen for clean mobility. Results show that the multi-modality infrastructure provides significant cost benefits, yielding an average cost of hydrogen that is up to 11% lower than a mono-modality configuration.
Pressure management in smart gas networks for increasing hydrogen blending
Authors: Cavana Marco , Vaccariello Enrico , Leone Pierluigi
Published: January 2022

The injection of hydrogen into existing gas grids is acknowledged as a promising option for decarbonizing gas systems and enhancing the integration among energy sectors. Nevertheless, it affects the hydraulics and the quality management of networks. When the network is fed by multiple infeed sites and hydrogen is fed from a single injection point, non-homogeneous hydrogen distribution throughout the grid happens to lead to a reduction of the possible amount of hydrogen to be safely injected within the grid. To mitigate these impacts, novel operational schemes should therefore be implemented. In the present work, the modulation of the outlet pressures of gas infeed sites is proposed as an effective strategy to accommodate larger hydrogen volumes into gas grids, extending the area of the network reached by hydrogen while keeping compliance with quality and hydraulic restrictions. A distribution network operated at two cascading pressure tiers interfaced by pressure regulators constitutes the case study, which is simulated by a fluid-dynamic and multi-component model for gas networks. Results suggest that higher shares of hydrogen and other green gases can be introduced into existing distribution systems by implementing novel asset management schemes with negligible impact on grid operations.
The efficiency of chitosan-graphene oxide composite membranes modified with genipin in fuel cell application
Authors: Gorgieva Selestina , Osmić Azra , Genorio Boštjan , Hacker Viktor , Wolf Sigrid , Hribernik Silvo
Published: January 2022

The paper reports on the processing of chitosan N-doped reduced graphene oxide (CS/N-rGO) nanocomposite membranes prepared by a facile, dispersion-casting procedure aimed as anion exchange membranes in fuel cells. Genipin (GEN) was used as a crosslinking agent to ameliorate mechanical weakens of nanocomposite membranes, while the N-rGO filler, aside of its role as a mechanical enhancer, is expected to improve the ionic conductivity of membranes. The resulting properties of processed membranes in terms of morphology, tensile strength, elasticity, and ethanol permeability were examined. The relevance of the membranes in terms of efficiency and performance was demonstrated in a single cell test.
Graphite/epoxy composite for building Bipolar Plates
Authors: Spinelli Luca , Roncaglia Fabrizio , Biagi Roberto , di Bona Alessandro , Romagnoli Marcello , Mucci Adele
Published: January 2022

Bipolar plates (BPs) are important components of Proton Exchange Membrane Fuel Cells (PEMFC). Graphite-epoxy composites, having a better corrosion resistance than metal-based BPs and better mechanical properties than graphite BPs, are a promising alternative. In this study, we tried to develop graphite-epoxy composites meeting the technical US DOE targets for 2020, with a proper choice of manufacturing conditions that ensure a good compromise between conductivity, flexural strength, and gas permeability. In particular, we studied the influence of the filler to binder ratio, changed the molding temperature and time, and investigated the effects of increasing pressure both on in-plane conductivity and on helium permeability. We found that both formulation and molding pressure are crucial in determining the permeability of the graphite-epoxy composites, whereas molding temperature and time seem to play a minor role.
Nanostructured gas diffusion layer to improve direct oxygen reduction reaction in Air-Cathode Single-Chamber Microbial Fuel Cells
Authors: Massaglia Giulia , Verpoorten Eve , Pirri Candido F. , Quaglio Marzia
Published: January 2022

The aim of this work is the development of new nanostructured-gas-diffusion-layer (GDL) to improve the overall behaviour of Air-Cathode Single-Chamber-Microbial-Fuel-Cells (SCMFCs). The design of new nanostructured-GDL allowed exploiting all nanofibers ’intrinsic properties, such as high surface ratio to volume, high porosity, achieving thus a good oxygen diffusion into the proximity of catalyst layer, favouring thus the direct oxygen-reduction-reaction (ORR). Nanostructured-GDLs were prepared by electrospinning process, using a layer-by-layer deposition to collect 2 nanofibers’ mats. The first layer was made of cellulose nanofibers able to promote oxygen diffusion into SCMFC. The second layer, placed outwards, was based on polyvinyl-fluoride (PVDF) nanofibers to prevent the electrolyte leakage. This nanostructured-GDL plays a pivotal role to improve the overall performance of Air-Cathode-SCMFCs. A maximum current density of 20 mA m-2was obtained, which is higher than the one reached with commercial-GDL, used as reference material. All results were analysed in terms of energy recovery parameter, defined as ratio of generated power integral and the internal volume of devices, evaluating the overall SCMFC performance. SCMFCs with a nanostructured-GDL showed an energy recovery equal to 60.83 mJ m-3, which was one order of magnitude higher than the one obtained with commercial-GDL, close to 3.92 mJ m-3.
Redox Cycling for SOFC Accelerated Degradation
Authors: Vladikova Daria , Burdin Blagoy , Sheikh Asrar , Piccardo Paolo , Krapchanska Milena , Montinaro Dario
Published: January 2022

This work aims at development of Accelerated Stress Tests for SOFC via artificial aging of the fuel electrode applying chemical and electrochemical (hydrogen starvation) redox cycling. In principle the degradation processes follows that of calendar aging (Ni coarsening and migration), but in addition it can bring to irreversible damages caused by the development of cracks at the interface anode/electrolyte due to the expansion/shrinkage of the Ni network. The challenge is to introduce conditions which will prevent the formation of cracks which can be done by partial oxidation. The advantage of the proposed methodology is that a mild level of oxidation can be regulated by direct impedance monitoring of the Ni network resistance changes during oxidation/reduction. Once the redox cycling conditions are fixed on bare anode and checked on anode/electrolyte sample for eventual cracks, the procedure can be introduced for AST in full cell configuration. The developed methodology is evaluated by comparative impedance analysis of artificially aged and calendar aged button cells. The results for 20 redox cycles which can be performed for 24 hours are comparable with those obtained for about 1600 hours operation in standard conditions which ensures more than 50 times acceleration.
Knowledge Based Engineering for Hydrogen Gas Turbines and Burners Design: a review
Authors: Angelo Corallo , Carla Dibiccari , Mariangela Lazoi , Giuseppe Starace , Domenico Laforgia
Published: January 2022

Hydrogen gas turbines and burners need high attention and their appropriate realization, yet during their design, can lead important benefits for the whole sector. Realizing the best design, the first time, reduces reworks and requests of design changes from the manufacturing departments. In this field, Knowledge Based Engineering is a good strategy for embedding, in an automatic way, experts’ knowledge into CAD models during the design of a component. It enables a reduction of human errors and costs in several design tasks and improving the final quality of a component model. With these premises, the aim to the study is to lead improvements and appropriate actions in the design and re-configuration of hydrogen power generation systems (i.e. gas turbines and burners) by means of KBE, leading improvements yet in this early phase of the global race for hydrogen. A systematic literature review is carried out to explore the current state of art for the application of KBE for the design of turbines and burners in different industrial sectors. Evidences from the practice are collected in a structured classification and elaborated and summarized for application in the design of gas turbines and burners for the hydrogen production.