bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Adaptive variation in jack pine from north central Ontario determined by short-term common garden tests
Authors: Niejenhuis Annette van , Parker William H.
Published: January 2008

To improve our understanding of adaptive variation in jack pine, Pinusbanksiana Lamb., from north central Ontario, 64 seed sources were grown in three common garden tests, and relationships were determined between seedling performance and environment at seed origin. Twenty-three growth and phenological variables were studied, including seedling heights, needle flushing dates, timing of shoot elongation, fall foliage colour change, and drought survival. Significant components of variation were expressed among seed sources for all growth traits and many phenological characters. Linear regressions were run between seedling traits and climatic variables as well as spatial, soil, and vegetative variables that described the environment at seed origin. Resulting coefficients of determination were as high as 0.30. Principal component analysis was used to summarize the variation, with 33% and 21% of the variation accounted for by the first and second components, respectively. Regressions and mapping of principal component analysis scores indicated that the patterns of variation in this portion of the range of jack pine were clinal in nature; the patterns could be predicted by environment at seed origin. The greater growth potential of seedlings from the southwestern portion of the range, in contrast with those of the north shore of Lake Superior, reflected clinal trends seen in previous studies. Multiple regressions were run on the first and second sets of factor scores produced from principal component analysis against the climate variables, resulting in coefficients of determination of 0.30 and 0.38, respectively. Including soil and vegetative variables in the models resulted in only slightly higher coefficients. Thus, climate at seed origin should be considered as the prime factor when seed transfers are necessary in this area.
HYPERBRANCHED ALIPHATIC POLYESTER MODIFIED ACTIVATED CARBON PARTICLES WITH HOMOGENIZED SURFACE GROUPS
Authors: LIU PENG , ZHANG LIUXUE
Published: January 2008

The hyperbranched aliphatic polyester grafted activated carbon (HAPE-AC), was successfully prepared by the simple "one-pot" method. The surface functional groups of commercial activated carbon particles were homogenized to hydroxyl groups by being oxidized with nitric acid and then reduced with lithium tetrahydroaluminate ( LiAlH 4) at first. Secondly, the surface hydroxyl groups were used as the active sites for the solution polycondensation of the AB2 monomer, 2, 2-bis(hydroxymethyl)propionic acid (bis-MPA), with the catalysis of p-toluenesulfonic acid (p-TSA). The homogenization of the surface groups of the activated carbon particles and the graft polymerization of the hyperbranched aliphatic polyester were investigated by X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS) technique. The products were also characterized with Fourier transform infrared (FT-IR) and scanning electron microscope (SEM). The competitive adsorption properties of the products toward the heavy metal ions ( Cu (II), Hg (II), Zn (II), and Cd (II)) also proved the translations of the surface groups.
THE DESIGN OF SURFACE MODIFICATION OF AMORPHOUS ZrO2 NANOPARTICLES AS A LUBRICANT ADDITIVE
Authors: ZHENG SHAOHUA , GUAN RUIFANG , GUO QIUJU , SU DENGCHENG
Published: January 2008

ZrO 2 is a kind of inorganic material with high hardness, high tenacity, antiwear, corrosion, and resistance, therefore it is regarded as an ideal nanolubricant material. But untreated ZrO 2 nanoparticles are reunited in the lubricant medium instead of monodisperse because the consistency is poor between the material surface and lubricant, which restricts its application as a nanolubricant additive. Through theoretical analysis, this paper designed that the surface of ZrO 2 nanoparticles was modified with silicon coupling agent, and it was changed to lipophilic surface, so it was possible to be a monodisperse system in the lubricant. The modified spherical nanoparticles of ZrO 2 were dispersed in the lubricant and they could play a molecular bearing part in lubricating media. When the friction surface reached a certain load and temperature, once the metal surface produces the deficiency, physical adsorption and chemisorption on the metal surface would be produced because of high nano- ZrO 2 particle activity, and even the N atom in the particle surface silane tends to be absorbed to the metal surface to form chelate compound, and make ZrO 2 particles enrich to defective locations of the metal surface. Then, a self-repairing lubricated membrane in the friction surfaces was set up, and it can play the function in the antifriction, antiwear, and surface dynamic self-repair.
BEHAVIOR OF PLASMA-SPRAYED HYDROXYAPATITE COATINGS ONTO CARBON/CARBON COMPOSITES IN SIMULATED BODY FLUID
Authors: SUI JIN-LING , BO WU , HAI ZHOU , CAO NING , LI MU-SEN
Published: January 2008

Two types of hydroxyapatite (HA) coatings onto carbon/carbon composite ( C / C composites) substrates, deposited by plasma spraying technique, were immersed in a simulated body fluid (SBF) in order to determine their behavior in conditions similar to the human blood plasma. Calcium ion concentration, pH value, microstructure, and phase compositions were analyzed. Results demonstrated that both the crystal Ca – P phases or the amorphous HA do dissolve slightly, and the dissolution of CaO phases in SBF was evident after 1 day of soaking. The calcium-ion concentration was decreased and the pH value of SBF was increased with the increasing of the immersing time. The precipitation was mainly composed of HA, which was verified by X-ray diffraction (XRD) and electron-probe microanalyzer.
PREPARATION OF ULTRA-THIN CATION EXCHANGE COMPOSITE MEMBRANES BY A NOVEL PLASMA POLYMERIZATION TECHNIQUE
Authors: JIANG ZHONGQING , MENG YUEDONG , JIANG ZHONGJIE , SHI YICAI
Published: January 2008

An after-glow capacitively coupled discharge technique has been used to fabricate ultra-thin proton exchange composite membranes in a plasma polymerization reactor, where styrene and acrylic acid are used as starting materials. By this technique, a good preservation of monomer structure can be achieved. The structure and composition of the plasma polymerized membranes were characterized by X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS) and Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FT-IR). The morphology information and thickness of the membranes were provided by Scanning electron micrographs (SEM). The synthesized membranes are dense with uniform structure and rich with carboxyl acid groups. This novel plasma polymerization technique is expected to be used for the preparation of alternative membranes to preserve their monomer structure to a maximum extent.
CHARACTERISTIC ANALYSIS ON GaN NANOCRYSTALLINE POWDER PREPARED BY SOL–GEL METHOD
Authors: LI ENLING , WANG XUEWEN , WANG SHANSHAN , CHEN GUICAN
Published: January 2008

Gallium nitride ( GaN ) nanocrystalline powder has been prepared by sol–gel method. The GaN powder has been confirmed as single-crystalline GaN with wurtzite structure by X-ray diffraction (XRD) and selected-area electron diffraction (SAED), and the diameter of the grains of GaN powder changes from 30 to 100 nm under transmission electron microscopy (TEM). Having been excited by 240 nm light at room temperature, GaN powder has a strong luminescence peak located at 395 nm and a weak luminescence peak located at 295 nm, attributed to GaN band-edge emission and blue-shift of the band-gap emission. Moreover, X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS) confirms the formation of the bond between Ga and N , and Raman scattering spectrum confirms A1 (TO) and E1 (TO) vibrational modes of GaN .
IRRADIATION EFFECTS ON MICROSTRUCTURE AND TENSILE BEHAVIOR OF POLYCRYSTALLINE NICKEL
Authors: GHAURI I. M. , AFZAL NAVEED , AKRAM RAZA M.
Published: January 2008

The microstructural modifications due to high energy electrons (8–18 MeV) and their correlation with the yielding behavior of polycrystalline nickel have been investigated. The specimens in the form of strips were irradiated at room temperature for 15 min in the energy range 8–18 MeV using linear accelerator. The comparison of microstructural results of irradiated specimens with that of the un-irradiated ones reveals that radiation deteriorate the surface of the target specimens. The damage was found to be more prominent at the grain boundaries. The tensile tests of both unirradiated and irradiated samples were carried out using Universal Testing Machine at room temperature. An increase in yield stress and loss of ductility was observed in case of irradiated specimens, which became more pronounced with an increase of incident beam energy. These effects are attributed to the interaction of glide dislocations stress fields with the defects produced during irradiation.
Violence, Identity and Poverty
Authors: Sen Amartya
Published: January 2008

The article discusses two main approaches to explaining violence in contemporary global society. Theories based on the culture of societies, among which the theory of the clash of civilizations is the most influential, attempt to explain violence by referring to antagonisms between collective identities. Theories of the political economy of power and inequality seek the sole cause of violence in economic factors. While each approach has some plausibility, both are inadequate on their own. When applied as sufficient explanations, they may distort our understanding in a way that undermines the possibility for both alleviating poverty and reducing conflict. The causal mechanisms are more complex than economic reductionism is capable of accounting for. Poverty and inequality are importantly linked to violence, but must be seen together with divisions between factors such as nationality, culture and religion. In turn, these factors must not be based on a false image of solitary identities and unavoidable antagonisms between cultural groups. The article suggests that the coupling between cultural identities and poverty increases the significance of inequality and may contribute to violence. Approaches to explaining violence should avoid isolationist programmes that explain violence solely in terms of social inequality and deprivation or in terms of identity and cultural factors.
Post-War New Zealand Literary Critique
Authors: Smithies James
Published: January 2008

For most of the 20th century literature and criticism of literature functioned as central engines of cultural change across the western world. This was especially the case in ex-colonial societies like New Zealand where writers and intellectuals frequently expressed a desire to create sophisticated local cultures which could compete with the foundation societies in Europe. Between 1940 and 1984 New Zealand writers and intellectuals developed a mode of literary criticism which this essay refers to as `Literary Critique' for this very reason. In the absence of well established cultural traditions and a sense that they had a duty to import and indigenise western intellectual thought in order to further the evolution of New Zealand culture, a series of writers wrote often scathing critiques of their culture, using literature as their point of entry. Post-War New Zealand Literary Critique stands as evidence of a provincial, masculine, and angry intellectual culture.
KAMA: A Temperature-Driven Model of Mate Choice Using Dynamic Partner Representations
Authors: French Robert M. , Kus Elif T.
Published: January 2008

KAMA is a model of mate-choice based on a gradual, stochastic process of building up representations of potential partners through encounters and dating, ultimately leading to marriage. Individuals must attempt to find a suitable mate in a limited amount of time with only partial knowledge of the individuals in the pool of potential candidates. Individuals have multiple-valued character profiles, which describe a number of their characteristics (physical beauty, potential earning power, etc.), as well as preference profiles, that specify their degree of preference for those characteristics in members of the opposite sex. A process of encounters and dating allows individuals to gradually build up accurate representations of potential mates. Individuals each have a “temperature,” which is the extent to which they are willing to continue exploring mate-space and which drives individual decision making. The individual-level mechanisms implemented in KAMA produce population-level data that qualitatively matches empirical data. Perhaps most significantly, our results suggest that differences in first-marriage ages and hazard-rate curves for men and women in the West may to a large extent be due to the Western dating practice whereby males ask women out and women then accept or refuse their offer.
Beyond social reproduction
Authors: Brotherton David C.
Published: January 2008

Researchers and theorists have described violent street gang subcultures in the USA as a response to the intersecting forces of marginalization inflicted on minority communities. Most gang scholars agree that the urban youth street gang is the quintessential example of social reproduction at work. While evidence can be mustered to defend such a position, it is important to consider how street gangs may constitute counter-hegemonic forms of both individual and collective resistance. In this article, I concentrate on the theoretical questions posed by such a perspective. My argument is that the open-ended view of earlier criminologists has been discarded and a pathological view of gang behavior holds sway. While this latter perspective may apply to some gangs, it does not pertain to all such subcultures. Based on my own and other studies, I advocate a return to resistance-based theory informed by literatures not normally consulted in gang criminology.
Sirt1 protects the heart from aging and stress
Authors: Hsu Chiao-Po , Odewale Ibrahim , Alcendor Ralph R. , Sadoshima Junichi
Published: January 2008

The prevalence of heart diseases, such as coronary artery disease and congestive heart failure, increases with age. Optimal therapeutic interventions that antagonize aging may reduce the occurrence and mortality of adult heart diseases. We discuss here how molecular mechanisms mediating life span extension affect aging of the heart and its resistance to pathological insults. In particular, we review our recent findings obtained from transgenic mice with cardiac-specific overexpression of Sirt1, which demonstrated delayed aging and protection against oxidative stress in the heart. We propose that activation of known longevity mechanisms in the heart may represent a novel cardioprotection strategy against aging and certain types of cardiac stress, such as oxidative stress.
TSH-Rezeptor-Antikörperbestimmung und ihre Diagnostische Wertigkeit / The diagnostic value of thyrotropin receptor antibody measurement
Authors: Albrecht Christin , Steveling Antje , Wallaschofski Henri
Published: January 2008

Der Morbus Basedow wird durch stimulierende TSH-Rezeptorantikörper (TRAK) verursacht. Neue Methoden zum Nachweis dieser Antikörper und deren klinischer Nutzen werden im Detail angesprochen und diskutiert. Diese sehr sensitiven Assays sind einfach verfügbar und kosteneffizient. Der routinemäßige Einsatz erlaubt eine klare Differenzierung zwischen Immunhyperthyreose und anderen Formen der Hyperthyreose. Trotz der verbesserten Sensitivität und Spezifität erlauben die neuen TRAK-Assays keine individuelle Prädiktion des klinischen Verlaufes des Morbus Basedow oder der endokrinen Orbitopathie.
Differentialdiagnostik des Syndrom der inadäquaten ADH-Sekretion gegenüber dem zerebralen Salzverlust-Syndrom / Differential Diagnosis – Syndrome of inappropriate ADH-Secretion (SIADH) versus Cerebral Salt-Wasting Syndrome (CSW)
Authors: Beyersdorf Steffi , Albrecht Christin , Wallaschofski Henri
Published: January 2008

Hyponatriämie ist eine der häufigsten Komplikationen bei Patienten mit Störungen des zentralen Nervensystems oder nach neurochirurgischen cerebralen Eingriffen. Die exakte Differenzierung zwischen dem Syndrom der inadäquaten ADH-Sekretion (SIADH) und dem zerebralen Salzverlust-Syndrom (CSW) ist aber von grundlegender Bedeutung, da beide Erkrankungen unterschiedliche Prognosen aufweisen und verschiedene Therapien erfordern. Während das SIADH eine bereits gut bekannte Störung ist, ist man noch wenig vertraut mit dem CSW. Dieser Artikel macht deutlich, wie wichtig es ist, das CSW in die differentialdiagnostischen Überlegungen mit einzubeziehen. Es wurden die Äthiologie, Pathophysiologie, Therapie und die Differentialdiagnosen des CSW herausgearbeitet. Im Mittelpunkt stehen dabei die bereits etablierten und die zur Zeit noch untersuchten diagnostischen Labor-Marker.
Downscaling of GCM forecasts to streamflow over Scandinavia
Authors: Nilsson Patrik , Uvo Cintia B. , Landman Willem A. , Nguyen Tinh D.
Published: January 2008

A seasonal forecasting technique to produce probabilistic and deterministic streamflow forecasts for 23 basins in Norway and northern Sweden is developed in this work. Large scale circulation and moisture fields, forecasted by the ECHAM4.5 model 4 months in advance, are used to forecast spring flows. The technique includes model output statistics (MOS) based on a non-linear Neural Network (NN) approach. Results show that streamflow forecasts from Global Circulation Model (GCM) predictions, for the Scandinavia region are viable and highest skill values were found for basins located in south-western Norway. The physical interpretation of the forecasting skill is that stations close to the Norwegian coast are directly exposed to prevailing winds from the Atlantic Ocean, which constitute the principal source of predictive information from the atmosphere on the seasonal timescale.
An attempt of process-oriented rainfall-runoff modeling using multiple-response data in an alpine catchment, Loehnersbach, Austria
Authors: Johst M. , Uhlenbrook S. , Tilch N. , Zillgens B. , Didszun J. , Kirnbauer R.
Published: January 2008

The development of process-oriented hydrological models, which are able to simulate hydrological processes distributed in space and time, is crucial for optimal management of water resources. The model TACD (tracer aided catchment model, distributed) was modified and applied to the mountainous Loehnersbach catchment (16 km2), Kitzbueheler Alps, Austria, with the aim of simulating the dominant hydrological processes in a distributed way. It can be seen as a further developed, fully distributed version of the HBV-model with a more process-based runoff generation routine, which uses a spatial delineation of hydrological response units (HRUs). Good overall runoff simulations could be obtained for the whole catchment. Additional data, i.e. discharge from sub-catchments, snow height measurements and dissolved silica concentrations, enabled to some extent the evalulation of the simulation of single processes. Certain periods, e.g. short-term runoff fluctuations during snow melt periods, could not be simulated well even when different model modifications were executed. This indicates model shortcomings because of incomplete process understanding and the necessity for further experimental research as well as for new concepts of model structure. In particular, the understanding and mathematical description of subsurface storm flows has to be improved. The impact of different HRU delineations on discharge simulations at the catchment outlet was relatively low, as long as the direct runoff producing units remained constant. However, the impact on runoff predictions at sub-catchment scale was significant. This indicates an ’averaging out’ effect for peculiarities and errors of runoff predictions at larger scales.
The Minimum Water Consumption of Ethanol Production via Biomass Fermentation
Authors: Pfromm P.H.
Published: January 2008

The water consumption of fermentation-based bio-ethanol production has recently begun to attract public attention.
We calculate a minimum consumption of 2.85 gal water/gal of ethanol produced assuming zero liquid discharge and
otherwise current industrial practice data. Including cooling tower blowdown and drift this value may increase to on the
order of 4 gal water/gal of ethanol produced. Reduction of the thermal energy input to the process is vital to reduce this irretrievable
water consumption.
Mental Health Care Utilization Among Parents of Children With Cancer
Authors: Hu Xin , Grosse Scott D. , Han Xuesong , Marchak Jordan Gilleland , Ji Xu
Published: April 2024

Importance

Caring for children diagnosed with cancer may adversely affect the mental health (MH) of parents.

Objective

To characterize utilization of MH services among parents of children with vs without cancer using nationwide commercial claims data.

Design, Setting, and Participants

For this cross-sectional study, the Merative MarketScan Commercial Claims Database was used to identify continuously insured families of children treated for cancer (aged ≤21 years at diagnosis) during 2010 to 2018, compared with families who matched eligibility criteria but did not have a child with a cancer history. Parents were assessed from 18 months before to 12 months after their child’s cancer diagnosis. Analyses were conducted from February 2022 to September 2023.

Exposures

Children’s cancer diagnosis.

Main Outcomes and Measures

Outcomes included parents’ MH-related visits during the first year following their child’s cancer diagnosis. Logistic regressions compared outcomes between families of children with vs without cancer, adjusting for sociodemographic and clinical factors.

Results

This study included 4837 families of children with cancer (4210 mothers and 4016 fathers) and 24 185 families of children without cancer (21 444 mothers and 19 591 fathers) with continuous insurance enrollment. Most household leads were aged 35 to 54 years (3700 [76.5%] in families of children with cancer vs 17 812 [73.6%] in families of children without cancer) and resided in urban areas (4252 [87.9%] vs 21 156 [87.5%]). The probabilities of parents having anxiety-related visits (10.6% vs 7.0%), depression-related visits (8.4% vs 6.1%), and any MH-related visits (18.1% vs 13.3%) were higher in families of children with vs without cancer. Adjusted analyses showed absolute increases of 3.2 percentage points (95% CI, 2.3 to 4.0; 45.7% relative increase), 2.2 percentage points (95% CI, 1.4 to 3.0; 36.1% relative increase), and 4.2 percentage points (95% CI, 3.1 to 5.3; 31.3% relative increase) in the probabilities of 1 or both parents having anxiety-related visits, depression-related visits, and any MH-related visits, respectively, among families of children with vs without cancer. Such differences were greater in magnitude among mothers than fathers.

Conclusions and Relevance

In this cohort study of privately insured parents, those caring for children with cancer had a higher likelihood of utilizing MH care than other parents. These findings underline the importance of interventions toward targeted counseling and support to better meet MH care needs among parents and caregivers of children with cancer.
Extraction and Purification of Lithium from Minerals
Authors: Wilson Shane M. , Gilligan Rorie , Nikoloski Aleksandar N.
Published: April 2024

Demand for lithium‐ion batteries for use in electric vehicles is driving lithium demand. A large increase in demand between now and 2040 is expected due to increasing electrification of the transport and energy sectors of the economy. This is in part due to an interest in improving air quality in cities and in the reduction of greenhouse gas emissions when electricity is generated without fossil fuel combustion. Currently, the two major natural sources of lithium for use in lithium‐ion batteries are brines and hard‐rock minerals. Lithium‐bearing clays have also been investigated as a potential source of lithium. Battery recycling is another potential source. Lithium in hard‐rock minerals is predominantly found in pegmatites. Lithium‐bearing minerals that may occur in pegmatites include petalite, lepidolite, and spodumene. The latter is currently the predominant hard‐rock lithium source. Following comminution, a number of treatments or combinations of treatments can be used to produce materials suitable for the final stage of purification of lithium products. Most involve high‐ or very‐high‐temperature treatments with various reagents followed by water leaching, although a few treat lithium‐bearing feed directly with acid leaching. Other elements are co‐leached and must be separated from lithium to allow the production of high‐purity lithium carbonate or lithium hydroxide, which are then used to manufacture lithium‐ion battery cathodes.
The scorpion toxin BeKm‐1 blocks hERG cardiac potassium channels using an indispensable arginine residue
Authors: Zavarzina Iana I. , Kuzmenkov Alexey I. , Dobrokhotov Nikita A. , Maleeva Ekaterina E. , Korolkova Yuliya V. , Peigneur Steve , Tytgat Jan , Krylov Nikolay A. , Vassilevski Alexander A. , Chugunov Anton O.
Published: April 2024

BeKm‐1 is a peptide toxin from scorpion venom that blocks the pore of the potassium channel hERG (Kv11.1) in the human heart. Although individual protein structures have been resolved, the structure of the complex between hERG and BeKm‐1 is unknown. Here, we used molecular dynamics and ensemble docking, guided by previous double‐mutant cycle analysis data, to obtain an in silico model of the hERG–BeKm‐1 complex. Adding to the previous mutagenesis study of BeKm‐1, our model uncovers the key role of residue Arg20, which forms three interactions (a salt bridge and hydrogen bonds) with the channel vestibule simultaneously. Replacement of this residue even by lysine weakens the interactions significantly. In accordance, the recombinantly produced BeKm‐1R20K mutant exhibited dramatically decreased activity on hERG. Our model may be useful for future drug design attempts.
The prognosis of patients treated with everolimus for advanced ER‐positive, HER2‐negative breast cancer is driven by molecular features
Authors: Salaün Hélène , Djerroudi Lounes , Haik Laura , Schnitzler Anne , Bataillon Guillaume , Deniziaut Gabrielle , Bièche Ivan , Vincent‐Salomon Anne , Debled Marc , Cottu Paul
Published: April 2024

Everolimus is widely used in patients with advanced ER‐positive, HER2‐negative breast cancer. We looked at alterations in the PIK3CA/AKT/mTOR pathway in a multicenter cohort as potential biomarkers of efficacy. Patients with advanced ER‐positive, HER2‐negative breast cancer treated with everolimus and endocrine therapy between 2012 and 2014 in two cancer centers were included. Targeted sequencing examined mutations in PIK3CA, ESR1, and AKT1 genes. An immunochemical analysis was conducted to evaluate expression of PTEN, INPP4B, STK11, p4EBP1, and pS6. We analyzed 71 patients (44 primary tumors; 27 metastatic tissues). Median age was 63 years [58–69]. All patients had heavily pretreated advanced disease. A mutation in the PIK3CA pathway was observed in 32 samples (PIK3CA exons 10 and 21 and AKT1 exon 4 in 15.5%, 24.0%, and 5.6% of samples), and in ESR1 in 5 samples (7.0%), respectively. Most samples showed cytoplasmic expression of the PIK3CA pathway proteins. Progression‐free survival was longer in patients with a pS6 or p4EBP1 histoscore ≥ median value (6.6 versus 3.7 months, p = 0.037), and in patients with a PTEN histoscore ≤ median value (7.1 versus 5.3 months, p = 0.02). Overall survival was longer in patients with pS6 ≥ 3rd quartile (27.6 versus 19.3 months, p = 0.038) and in patients with any mutation in the PIK3CA/AKT/mTOR pathway (27.6 versus 19.3 months, p = 0.011). The prognosis of patients treated with everolimus for advanced ER‐positive, HER2‐negative breast cancer appears primarily driven by molecular features associated with the activation of the PIK3CA/AKT/mTOR pathway.
Understanding the Effect of Saturated Gases on Catalytic Performance of Graphitic Carbon Nitride (g‐C3N4) for H2O2 Generation and Dye Degradation in the Presence of Ultrasound
Authors: Karunakaran A. , Nguyen Hoang‐Duy P. , Bowen Chris R. , Marken Frank , Narayan Bastola , Dunn Steve , Zhang Yan , Jia Miao , Zhao Yan , Nguyen Nguyen‐Phuong , Le Bao‐Ngoc T. , Pham Thuy‐Phuong T.
Published: April 2024

In this article, the effect of saturated gases on H2O2 generation and dye degradation is examined using graphitic carbon nitride (g‐C3N4) as a piezoelectric catalyst. A detailed catalytic evaluation is carried out using a double‐bath sono‐reactor, where the performance of g‐C3N4 for H2O2 production and degradation of rhodamine B and indigo carmine dyes is evaluated for a range of catalyst dosage levels and saturated gases. Specific gases are selected to understand their role in the sonochemical production of reactive oxygen species (ROS) and reactive nitrogen species (RNS) and to elucidate the catalytic mechanism. The use of an Ar–O2 gas mixture leads to the highest yield for H2O2 production and dye degradation due to the positive effect of argon and oxygen in the generation of H2O2 and ROS, respectively. The presence of nitrogen in both air and in an Ar–air mixture increases H2O2 generation since RNS improves the conversion of •OH into H2O2. In contrast, air and Ar–air negatively influences the generation of ROS, which results in a low rate of dye degradation. In this work, new insights of the mechanisms of sonochemical and piezocatalytic processes in the use of graphitic carbon nitride in catalytic applications are provided.
Robust Room Temperature Thermoelectric Performance of Mg3(Sb, Bi)2‐Based Alloys via Multivalent Mn Doping
Authors: Yang Kangkang , Li Xiangyu , Sun Congli , Song Wei , Zhao Wenyu , Zhang Qingjie
Published: April 2024

n‐type Mg3(Sb, Bi)2 has excellent room temperature thermoelectric performance, which is, however, severely restricted by the negatively charged Mg vacancies that significantly deteriorate the carrier mobility. Herein, by manipulating the threshold solubility and defect formation energy of Mn, multivalent Mn is selectively introduced that synergistically promotes the carrier conduction according to different Mg chemical potentials; In Mg‐rich areas, interstitial Mn dominates which effectively reduces the migration and accumulation of Mg vacancies, while in Mg poor areas, interstitial Mn switches to substitutional sites that directly compensate for the negative charge. All the Mn centers possess Jahn–Teller inactive positions, leading to an ultra‐stable room temperature thermoelectric performance with a leading ZT up to 0.97. This work reveals the critical effect of multivalent and multifunctional transition metal incorporation in Mg3(Sb, Bi)2‐based alloys toward high room‐temperature thermoelectric performance.
Nano‐Scale Interface Engineering of Sulfur Cathode to Enable High‐Performance All‐Solid‐State Li–S Batteries
Authors: Zhong Haoyue , Su Yu , Ma Ruqin , Luo Yu , Lin Hongxin , Gu Jiabao , Gong Zhengliang , Yang Yong
Published: April 2024

All‐solid‐state lithium–sulfur batteries (ASSLSBs) are expected to be the next generation of high‐energy battery systems due to their long lifespan and high safety. However, unstable interfaces between elemental sulfur, conductive carbon, and solid electrolytes lead to slow charge transport and mechanical failures, thereby limiting battery performance. Herein, atomic layer deposition‐derived lithium phosphorus oxide is applied to the surface of carbon/sulfur particles to enhance the interfacial stability of the sulfur cathode and improve the electrochemical performance of ASSLSBs. The coating layer can inhibit electrolyte decomposition and improve interfacial stability by blocking electron conduction between carbon and electrolyte. Moreover, it not only serves as an ion‐conducting layer to facilitate Li+ transport but also acts as a stress buffer layer to alleviate contact failure. The assembled ASSLSBs with sulfide electrolyte exhibit an initial specific capacity of 1322 mAh g−1 at 0.2 C and capacity retention of 86.4% after 300 cycles. Furthermore, ASSLSBs maintain a reversible capacity of 645 mAh g−1 at 0.5 A g−1 after 1000 cycles, confirming the long cycling stability of the coated sulfur cathode. Even under high sulfur loading, ASSLSBs achieve high areal capacities of 4.6 mAh cm−2 at 30 °C and 11.7 mAh cm−2 at 60 °C.
Palladium‐Boride Nanoflowers with Controllable Boron Content for Formic Acid Electrooxidation
Authors: Liu Yi‐Ming , Miao Bo‐Qiang , Yang Han‐Yue , Ai Xuan , Wang Tian‐Jiao , Shi Feng , Chen Pei , Chen Yu
Published: April 2024

The rational design of the electronic structure and elemental compositions of anode electrocatalysts for formic acid electrooxidation reaction (FAOR) is paramount for realizing high‐performance direct formic acid fuel cells. Herein, palladium‐boride nanoflowers (Pd‐B NFs) with controllable boron content are rationally designed via a simple wet chemical reduction method, utilizing PdII‐dimethylglyoxime as precursor and NaBH4 as both reductant and boron source. The boron content of Pd‐B NFs can be regulated through manipulation of reaction time, accompanying with the crystal phase transition from face‐centered cubic to hexagonal close‐packed within the parent Pd lattice. The obtained Pd‐B NFs exhibit increased FAOR mass and specific activity with increasing boron content, showcasing remarkable inherent stability and anti‐poisoning capability compare to commercial Pd and platinum (Pt) nanocrystals. Notably, the sample reacted for 12 h reveals high FAOR specific activity (31.5 A m−2), which is approximately two times higher than the commercial Pd nanocrystals. Density functional theory calculations disclose that the d‐sp orbital hybridization between Pd and B modifies surface d‐band properties of Pd, thereby optimizing the adsorption of key intermediates and facilitating FAOR kinetics on the Pd surface. This study paves the way toward the utilization of metal boride‐based materials with simple synthesis methods for various electrocatalysis applications.
Optical Microcavity‐Induced Moiré Exciton Localization in Twisted WSe2 Homobilayer
Authors: Wu Biao , Xie Xing , Chen Junying , Li Shaofei , Ding Junnan , He Jun , Liu Zongwen , Liu Yanping
Published: April 2024

2D moiré superlattices offer a versatile platform for manipulating quantum materials, exploiting their spatially varying atomic registry to modify electronic structures, resulting in the emergence of flat electronic minibands, enhanced electronic interactions, and the onset of novel quantum phenomena. Despite extensive investigations into moiré excitons within twisted bilayer moiré superlattices, the interplay between moiré superlattices and optical microcavities remains elusive. Here, a WSe2 homobilayer with a small twist angle positioned on optical microcavities atop a SiO2 (285 nm)/Si substrate is investigated. Utilizing low‐temperature photoluminescence (PL) spectroscopy, it is observed that the twisted homobilayer at the edge of the optical cavity (Edge‐THB) exhibits enhanced localization of moiré excitons and a deeper moiré potential. This behavior is attributed to the combined influence of strain induced by the optical microcavity structure on the moiré superlattice and the amplification of the electromagnetic field. Furthermore, the existence of moiré excitons through a comprehensive analysis, encompassing temperature‐dependent PL spectra, circularly polarized PL spectra, and Landé g‐factor measurements for Edge‐THB is validated. These findings provide valuable insights into the intricate interaction between moiré superlattices and optical microcavities, paving the way for future applications in quantum technologies.
Printed 1d Perovskite Photodetector for Indoor/Outdoor Non‐Contact and Real‐Time Sports Training Monitoring
Authors: Zhang Jiabing , Xie Hongfei , Hu Yuming , Sun Wei , Lv Mengfei , Han Teng , Tian Xiaolin , Wang Shuang , Su Meng
Published: April 2024

As people increased emphasis on health problems, various wearable electronic devices are developed for sport‐related activity monitoring. However, these reported sensors must be tightly attached on the body to record the photonic, electronic even chemical changes during exercise. Poor user experience hinders the rapid application of wearable sensors. Here, an all‐printed perovskite photodetector for achieving non‐contact sports motion monitoring is developed. 1D MAPbBr3 arrays are printed with uniform orientation and strict crystallization via the droplet‐manipulation printing strategy. Under the guidance of microarrays on the template, the perovskite‐loaded droplet can be self‐shaped into the linear confined liquid space for the next crystallization. 1D perovskite photodetectors with high responsivity (R, MAX: 198 A W−1) and detectivity (D*, MAX: 6.64 × 1013 Jones) can be utilized to detect changes in the ambient light intensity under the body during the push‐up movement, achieving non‐contact real‐time monitoring of motions. The average accuracy of printed photodetectors to classify the collected push‐up signals reaches 97.40%. This strategy provides a reference for further improving the sensing performance of wearable sensors, which also extends the application of sports monitoring.
A Flame‐Retardant, Water Resistant, and Degradable Wood Toward Construction Application
Authors: Sun Xiaoxiao , Chen Yang , Chen Lei , Zheng Dingyuan , Yang Minghui , Yao Wenrui , Zhang Yanhua
Published: April 2024

Wood presents excellent opportunities for sustainable urbanism as a renewable building material. Here, the chemical synthesis of a novel wood composites (3%PFeW) which owns flame‐retardance, water resistance, and degradability is investigated. The 3%PFeW is composed of porous wood framework impregnated with citric acid, 1,8‐octanediol, and the flame retardants (Fe3O4 and 2‐carboxyethyl phenyl hypophosphite (CEPPA)). The 3%PFeW's effective flame retardancy is realized by the introduction of Fe3O4 and CEPPA. Self‐extinguish phenomenon of 3%PFeW happens after being removed from flame. Moreover, 3%PFeW holds an LOI value of 27, reaching V0 flame retardant standard. The 3%PFeW exhibits exceptional water resistance, being proven by its water contact angle (100 °) as well as the low absorbed water content (only 6.5% after soaking 7 days). In addition, the wood composite shows degradable after immersion in NaOH for several days (71.37% degradation content after 7 days), which facilitates the recycling and reutilization of the wood framework after utilization. The modified wood with flame‐retardant, water resistant, and degradable capabilities shown here provides an appealing composite toward building area.
Sustained‐Release of Antigens and CpG‐DNA using Temperature‐Responsive Biodegradable Injectable Polymers: Performance on Induction of Immune Responses
Authors: Yoshizaki Yuta , Horii Kenta , Murase Nobuo , Kuzuya Akinori , Ohya Yuichi
Published: April 2024

Here, a vaccine delivery system is developed that attains sustained release of antigens (ovalbumin; model antigen) and adjuvants (CpG‐DNA; oligodeoxynucleotides containing unmethylated cytosine‐guanine motifs) using biodegradable temperature‐responsive injectable polymers (IP). Previously a biodegradable IP system was prepared that exhibited a temperature‐responsive sol‐to‐gel transition and subsequent chemical cross‐linking. The IP system used triblock copolymers, poly(ε‐caprolactone‐co‐glycolide)‐b‐poly(ethylene glycol)‐b‐poly(ε‐caprolactone‐co‐glycolide) (tri‐PCG) and a polymer whose termini were converted to N‐hydroxysuccinimide esters (tri‐PCG‐OSu). OVA and CpG‐DNA sustained release was achieved using tri‐PCG‐based IP systems in vitro. Moreover, the release of CpG‐DNA was delayed using an IP system containing tri‐PCG‐OSu mixed with poly(L‐lysine) (PLL). Subcutaneous administration of the tri‐PCG‐based IP gel vaccine induced stronger humoral and cellular immune responses in mice than in those without IP administration. The Tri‐PCG‐OSu IP gel maintained high OVA‐specific IgG titers for 22 weeks. In contrast, the tri‐PCG IP gel exhibits a relatively rapid release of CpG DNA in vitro, predominantly inducing cellular immune responses. Furthermore, the tri‐PCG IP gel shows a potent antitumor effect against OVA‐expressing T lymphoma (E.G7‐OVA) and extends the survival duration of mice. Therefore, tri‐PCG‐based IP systems are promising vaccine platforms for controlling the release of antigens and adjuvants to enhance the humoral and cellular immune responses.
Aromatic‐Carbonyl Interactions as an Emerging Type of Non‐Covalent Interactions
Authors: Yin Chaowei , Ye Hebo , Hai Yu , Zou Hanxun , You Lei
Published: April 2024

Aromatic‐carbonyl (Ar···C═O) interactions, attractive interactions between the arene plane and the carbon atom of carbonyl, are in the infancy as one type of new supramolecular bonding forces. Here the study and functionalization of aromatic‐carbonyl interactions in solution is reported. A combination of aromatic‐carbonyl interactions and dynamic covalent chemistry provided a versatile avenue. The stabilizing role and mechanism of arene‐aldehyde/imine interactions are elucidated through crystal structures, NMR studies, and computational evidence. The movement of imine exchange equilibria further allowed the quantification of the interplay between arene‐aldehyde/imine interactions and dynamic imine chemistry, with solvent effects offering another handle and matching the electrostatic feature of the interactions. Moreover, arene‐aldehyde/imine interactions enabled the reversal of kinetic and thermodynamic selectivity and sorting of dynamic covalent libraries. To show the functional utility diverse modulation of fluorescence signals is realized with arene‐aldehyde/imine interactions. The results should find applications in many aspects, including molecular recognition, assemblies, catalysis, and intelligent materials.
High‐Entropy Phase Stabilization Engineering Enables High‐Performance Layered Cathode for Sodium‐Ion Batteries
Authors: Wang Bing , Ma Jun , Wang Kejian , Wang Dekai , Xu Gaojie , Wang Xiaogang , Hu Zhiwei , Pao Chih‐Wen , Chen Jeng‐Lung , Du Li , Du Xiaofan , Cui Guanglei
Published: April 2024

O3‐type layered oxides are considered as one of the most promising cathode materials for rechargeable sodium‐ion batteries (SIBs) due to their appealing energy density and feasible synthesis. Nevertheless, it undergoes complicated phase transitions and pronounced structural degradation during the cycling of charge/discharge process, rendering severe volumetric strain and poor cycling performance. Herein, a zero‐strain high‐entropy NaNi0.2Fe0.2Mn0.35Cu0.05Zn0.1Sn0.1O2 cathode for SIBs is presented by high‐entropy phase stabilization engineering. It is verified that this low‐nickel cobalt‐free high‐entropy cathode can deliver a highly reversible phase evolution, zero volumetric strain, and a significantly improved cycling performance in full cells (87% capacity retention after 500 cycles at 3.0  C). Combining X‐ray absorption spectra and first‐principles calculations, the varied elemental functions in the high‐entropy framework are clearly elucidated, namely, Ni/Fe/Cu acts as charge compensators, while Mn/Zn/Sn serve as interlayer slipping inhibitors through enhanced charge localization besides their stable valence states. By addressing the volumetric strain and cycling instability concerns for O3‐type cathode materials, this work presents a promising strategy for inhibiting irreversible phase transitions and structural degradation in intercalation electrodes, which significantly boosts the development of commercially feasible cathodes for high‐performance SIBs.
Does urban–rural integration reduce rural poverty?
Authors: Niu Kunzai , Xu Hengzhou
Published: April 2024

Rural poverty reduction is a challenge worldwide. Urban–rural integration is not only the result of urban and rural development but also the cause of poverty alleviation. Few studies, however, have used empirical methods to examine the social impact of urban–rural integration. Against the Chinese background, this study adopts an empirical method to analyze the impact of urban–rural integration on rural poverty reduction at the micro level. The study finds that urban–rural integration can reduce rural households' absolute poverty and relative income poverty. The main channel is the access of rural households to medical services. However, there is regional heterogeneity and household heterogeneity. Urban–rural integration cannot reduce rural household poverty for the western regions with backward economies. Household heads' age, health and job will impact the effect of urban–rural integration on reducing rural household poverty. Urban–rural integration and poverty alleviation development work should pay more attention to access to resources and services and adopt differentiated policies for different regions. [EconLit Citations: R1]
Perovskite‐Nanowire‐Array‐Based Continuous‐State Programmable Artificial Synapse for Neuromorphic Computing
Authors: Zhang Yuting , Ma Zichao , Chen Zhesi , Poddar Swapnadeep , Zhu Yudong , Han Bing , Chan Chak Lam Jonathan , Ding Yucheng , Kong Xiangpeng , Fan Zhiyong
Published: April 2024

Perovskite‐based memristors with tunable nonvolatile states are developed to mimic the synaptic interconnects of biological nervous systems and map neuromorphic computing networks to integrated circuits. To emulate the plasticity of synaptic structures, memristors with robust multilevel resistive states are fabricated in this work using high‐density polycrystalline MAPbCl3nanowires (NWs) array that vertically integrated using solution method. In particular, the fabricated memristors exhibit both short‐ and long‐term plasticity and traits akin to biological synapses. A fabricated memristor device is precisely programmed to 18 resistive states and each state exhibits stable data retention of more than 100 000 s. Furthermore, a matrix processing unit using a 4‐by‐4 memristor array is fabricated as the hardware core of an encoder–decoder artificial neural network to demonstrate high accuracy and reliable in‐image font conversion. The resistive states of the 16 memristors are precisely programmed to the corresponding resistance values for specific synaptic weights of the artificial‐neural‐network‐trained offline. In addition, experimental characterization and first‐principles simulations attribute the continuous programmability and high reliability features of the memristors to the confinement mechanisms of the horizontal grain‐boundary structure in polycrystalline perovskite NWs.
Synthesis of 3‐Aryl Substituted Triimidazotriazines via Regioselective Direct Arylation
Authors: Rosadoni Elisabetta , Ballerini Lorenzo , Del Vecchio Antonio , Bellina Fabio
Published: April 2024

A general and convenient selective direct arylation of the 3‐position of triimidazo[1,2‐a:1’,2’‐c:1’’,2’’‐e][1,3,5]triazine (1) with (hetero)aryl halides in DMA was successfully achieved in the presence of K2CO3 as the base and a catalyst precursor consisting of Pd(OAc)2 and P(2‐furyl)3. Electron‐poor and ‐rich (hetero)aryl moieties, including the strongly deactivated and sterically encumbered 2,4,6‐trimethoxyphenyl unit, are well tolerated in the electrophilic partner. The data obtained in this synthetic study support a reaction mechanism involving an electrophilic attack of an arylpalladium‐(II) halide species onto the triazine ring.