bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Fluorinated Triazole Foldamers: Folded or Extended Conformational Preferences
Authors: Laxio Arenas José , Xu Yaochun , Milcent Thierry , Van Heijenoort Carine , Giraud François , Ha‐Duong Tap , Crousse Benoit , Ongeri Sandrine
Published: February 2021

Fluorinated peptidomimetic foldamers are still in their infancy. We report here the easy access to fluorinated triazolamers based on 2‐amino‐3,3,3‐trifluoropropyl‐1,4‐triazolyl acetic acid (CF3−1,4‐Tz) and on aminomethyl‐1,4‐triazolyl‐difluoroacetic acid (1,4‐Tz−CF2). Both CF3−1,4‐Tz and 1,4‐Tz−CF2 amino acids were efficiently prepared by copper(I)‐catalyzed Huisgen 1,3‐dipolar cycloaddition. Their conformational preferences were studied by 2D NMR analyses and molecular dynamic simulations. Foldamers based on CF3−1,4‐Tz amino acids are capable of adopting short multi‐stranded β‐sheet‐like structures that are maintained by electrostatic interactions between the triazole proton and N2 atom of neighboring subunits. On the contrary, foldamers based on 1,4‐Tz−CF2 units adopt elongated β‐strand‐like structures, stabilized by electrostatic interaction between fluorine atoms and their neighboring protons.
A short form of the Recovery Assessment Scale‐Domains and Stages: Development and validation among adults with anxiety disorders
Authors: De Silva Kaylah Teresa , Cockshaw Wendell David , Rehm Imogen C. , Hancock Nicola
Published: February 2021

The Recovery Assessment Scale‐Domains and Stages (RAS‐DS) is a 38‐item self‐report instrument measuring recovery from serious mental illness. We explored the suitability of the RAS‐DS for individuals with anxiety disorders. A parsimonious short form of the scale was developed. Participants with anxiety disorder symptoms (N = 295) completed the RAS‐DS, DASS‐21 and GAD‐7. Confirmatory factor analysis supported the expected four‐factor structure. Associations with related scales exhibited the expected pattern supporting construct validity in this population. The Recovery Assessment Scale‐Short Form (RAS‐SF) was derived by inspection of factor loadings and modification indices, yielding a 20‐item scale with five items per subscale. Strong correlations between subscales confirmed the total score represented a valid overarching measure of recovery. The present study indicates that recovery is pertinent to individuals with anxiety disorders. Development of the short‐form RAS‐SF affords opportunity for routine measurement of recovery in populations with anxiety and other high prevalence conditions.
Flexible, All‐Inorganic CsPbBr3 Perovskite Solar Cells Tailored by Heat‐resistant Muscovite Substrates
Authors: Xu Yafeng , Duan Jialong , Du Jian , Yang Xiya , Duan Yanyan , Tang Qunwei
Published: February 2021

All‐inorganic CsPbBr3 perovskite solar cells (PSCs) have attracted tremendous attention, owing to their excellent stability and rising power conversion efficiency. However, the mechanical flexibility of these solar cells has ground to a standstill because of the high‐temperature requirement for ideal CsPbBr3 perovskite films. In this study, a flexible CsPbBr3 PSC with an efficiency of 5.71 % has been made by means of fabricating a heat‐resistant conductive muscovite substrate, which demonstrates very high mechanical flexibility with nearly unchanged resistance even after 4000 bending cycles (12000 cycles of concave and convex bending for PSCs), owing to the weak van der Waals force and layered structure. Implementation of the muscovite substrate enables the fabrication of flexible PSCs under high‐temperature conditions, providing a new path to increase the efficiency without lowering the crystallization temperature of state‐of‐the‐art electron‐transporting materials and perovskite films in the future.
A Zn−Ce Redox Flow Battery with Ethaline Deep Eutectic Solvent
Authors: Cao Xiaozhou , Wang Song , Xue Xiangxin
Published: February 2021

Compared with conventional aqueous and ionic liquid electrolytes, deep eutectic solvent (DES) are considered as electrolyte for redox flow batteries because they have a wider electrochemical window and relatively low price. In this study, CeIV/CeIII and ZnII/Zn redox couples are used as the positive and negative active materials, respectively, in an electrolyte consisting of choline chloride ethylene glycol (ethaline). The structure of CeIII in the positive electrolyte is inferred through spectrum detection. CeIV/CeIII and ZnII/Zn redox couples show a stable potential difference of 2.2 V (vs. Ag) through cyclic voltammetry. The charge and discharge performance of battery was tested at different current densities. In addition, battery performance was evaluated at different temperatures and concentrations of cerium in the electrolyte. Consequently, at a current density of 0.5 mA cm−2 at room temperature and using 1.0 m CeIII, the battery performance reaches the best coulombic efficiency of 84 %.
Micropore‐Rich Yolk‐Shell N‐doped Carbon Spheres: An Ideal Electrode Material for High‐Energy Capacitive Energy Storage
Authors: Li Xinyuan , Liu Zhenhui , Cai Congcong , Yu Qiang , Jin Wenting , Xu Ming , Yu Chang , Li Shidong , Zhou Liang , Mai Liqiang
Published: February 2021

Increasing the energy density of electrochemical double layer capacitors (EDLCs) can broaden their applications in energy storage but remains a formidable challenge. Herein, micropore‐rich yolk‐shell structured N‐doped carbon spheres (YSNCSs) were constructed by a one‐pot surfactant‐free self‐assembly method in aqueous solution. The resultant YSNCSs after activation possessed an ultrahigh surface area of 2536 m2 g−1, among which 80 % was contributed from micropores. When applied in EDLCs, the activated YSNCSs demonstrated an unprecedentedly high capacitance (270 F g−1at 1 A g−1) in 1‐ethyl‐3‐methylimidazolium tetrafluoroborate ([EMIM][BF4]) ionic liquid, affording an ultrahigh energy density (133 Wh kg−1at 943 W kg−1). The present contribution provides insight into engineering porous carbons for capacitive energy storage.
Performance improvement of shunt active power filter under variable grid frequency condition using complex coefficient filter‐frequency locked loop
Authors: Dubey Alok Kumar , Mishra Jyoti Prakash , Kumar Amritesh
Published: February 2021

Synchronizing methodology for shunt active power filter (SAPF) based on the resonant controller using generalized integrator (GI) in the stationary reference frame is of great interest for researchers now a day. In this paper, a phase synchronizing technique based on the complex coefficient filter (CCF) embedded with a frequency locked loop (FLL) is proposed for the fundamental active and reactive component extraction of load current and unit template generation from grid supply. The proposed CCF‐FLL–based control works effectively under varying grid frequency, distorted and unbalance grid voltage conditions to generate the reference source current at a unity power factor for proper harmonic compensation using an indirect current control method. In this work, a detailed mathematical modeling for development of control logic for CCF‐FLL is done, and its feasibility with the bode plot is also confirmed. Simulation for SAPF is performed using both CCF and CCF‐FLL–based control strategy separately to judge the performance of each. Simulation confirms that the proposed CCF‐FLL based control is capable of maintaining the source current with low total harmonic distortion (THD) as per the IEEE‐519 standard with the nonlinear load. The effectiveness of the proposed controller for desired harmonics compensation is also validated through real‐time simulation using OPAL‐RT OP4510 platform.
Solar powered Modified Coupled Inductor, Capacitor Multiplier boost converter operated three‐phase small power inverter
Authors: Kannan Rathika , Subbaraman Srinath
Published: February 2021

The solar power generation system is being increasingly connected to the low power distribution system due to its low cost and abundant availability. The interconnection of the solar power generation system demands new and efficient power converters to provide sufficient boost factor for the solar panel output voltage. This paper presents a Modified Coupled Inductor, Capacitor Multiplier (MCICM) direct current (DC)–DC boost converter to provide high boost factor for the solar panel output voltage and to maximize the benefits of the grid‐interfacing three‐phase three‐wire inverter. The fuzzy logic‐based DC‐link voltage controller and hysteresis current controller (HCC) are also proposed to enhance the power transfer ability of the small power grid‐connected inverter. The new topology of boost converter constructed with the coupled inductors, capacitor, and high‐frequency transformers is demonstrated through the series of tests carried out with extensive MATLAB/Simulink simulation studies. The SPARTAN 3 field‐programmable gate array (FPGA)‐based prototyping model validated the performance of the proposed topology, experimentally.
Lamarckian learning‐based whale optimization algorithm to localize non‐line‐of‐sight nodes for achieving reliable data dissemination in vehicular ad‐hoc networks
Authors: Balamurugan A.
Published: February 2021

Non‐line‐of‐sight (NLOS) nodes in vehicular ad‐hoc networks (VANETs) are responsible for introducing channel congestion and broadcast storm during data dissemination for sustaining reliable connectivity between vehicular nodes. In this paper, an Integrated Lamarckian Learning and Whale Optimization Algorithm‐based NLOS Localization Technique (ILL‐WOA‐NLOS‐LT) is proposed for NLOS localization in order to improve high reliability and low latency during the emergency message sharing. This proposed ILL‐WOA‐NLOS scheme inherits an optimization process that concentrates on the objective of minimizing latency during warning message delivery. It included the merits of Lamarckian evolution‐based learning strategy for strengthening and speeding up the rate of local search. It possesses maximum probability of acquiring higher adaptability through active learning for improving the global convergence speed to attain better localization of NLOS nodes in emergency situations. It also incorporated a better tradeoff between exploitation and exploration for effective NLOS localization with reduced error. The simulation experiments of the proposed ILL‐WOA‐NLOS scheme conducted through EstiNet 8.1 confirmed its predominance in achieving an excellent mean emergency message dissemination rate of 12.96% mean NLOS node localization rate of 14.21% and the mean neighborhood awareness rate of 13.62% with different number of vehicular nodes, compared to the benchmarked localization approaches considered for investigation. The localization error of the proposed ILL‐WOA‐NLOS scheme was also identified to be significantly reduced by 12.82% compared to the baseline schemes used for investigation.
The meaning of high‐risk HPV other than type 16/18 in women with negative cytology: Is it really safe to wait for 1 year?
Authors: Kabaca Canan , Giray Burak , Guray Uzun Mine , Akis Serkan , Purut Yunus Emre , Keles Peker Esra , Cetiner Handan , Bostanci Ergen Evrim
Published: February 2021

Background

Human papillomavirus (HPV) is a primary risk factor for cervical cancer. HPV 16 and 18 are the two most carcinogenic genotypes and have been reported in the majority of cervical cancer. High‐risk HPVs (hrHPVs) other than HPV 16/18 cause approximately a quarter of cervical cancers. We aimed to present the colposcopy‐guided biopsy results of non‐16/18 hrHPV‐infected women with negative cytology.

Methods

This is a retrospective cohort study conducted on 752 patients between the ages of 30‐65 years with non‐16/18 hrHPV and negative cytology undergoing colposcopy‐guided biopsy at a tertiary gynecological cancer center between January‐2016 and January‐2019.

Results

The mean age of the women was 42.35±9.41 years. Cervical intraepithelial neoplasia (CIN) 2+ lesion was detected in 49 (6.5%) women with negative cytology. The rate of CIN 2+ lesions in women with abnormal cytology was 12.8%. Patients with abnormal cytology had about 2.1 and 2.4 times increased the odds of CIN 2+ lesion in cervical biopsy and endocervical curettage specimens, respectively. CIN 3+ lesion was detected in 20 (2.7%) women with negative cytology. One (0.1%) of the patients with HPV 39 and negative cytology had invasive cervical cancer. The two most common HPV subtypes were HPV 31 and HPV 51.

Conclusions

The risk of cervical preinvasive lesions still can be detected and cannot be completely eliminated among hrHPV other than 16/18‐infected women with negative cytology. Based on the results of this study, referral of non‐16/18 hrHPV‐infected women with negative cytology to colposcopy is supported as a credible and feasible strategy.
Neuroprotective effect of Na+/H+ exchangers isoform‐1 inactivation against 6‐hydroxydopamine‐induced mitochondrial dysfunction and neuronal apoptosis in Parkinson's disease models
Authors: Xing Ruixian , Liu Xuewen , Tian Buxian , Cheng Yan , Li Longguang
Published: February 2021

Parkinson's disease (PD) is a disabling neurodegenerative disease mainly caused by degeneration of mesencephalic dopaminergic neurons in the substantia nigra pars compacta (SNpc). The neuroprotective role of Na+/H+ exchangers isoform‐1 (NHE1) inactivation in cerebral ischemic damage has been elucidated. The current study aimed to investigate the impacts of NHE1 in PD. In this study, 6‐hydroxydopamine (6‐OHDA)‐induced PD rat models were established to attempt to illuminate the role and underlying mechanisms of NHE1 in SNpc neurons of PD. Meanwhile, nerve growth factor‐stimulated PC12 cells followed by 6‐OHDA treatment was used to mimic PD in vitro. Results showed that the protein levels of NHE1 were significantly increased in the SNpc neurons of rats and differentiated PC12 cells after 6‐OHDA treatment. Inactivation of NHE1 with chemical inhibitor HOE642 suppressed SNpc neuronal loss and NHE1 expression in PD rats. The overlays of tyrosine hydroxylase and NHE1 displayed that NHE1 expression was not colocalized but closely associated with TH. Besides, treatment with HOE642 relieved the dyskinesia, mitochondrial dysfunction, and neuronal apoptosis. Further in vitro evidence confirmed that inhibition of NHE1 by genetic‐knockdown prevented mitochondrial dysfunction and apoptosis. Our study represents the first experimental evidence of a potential role for NHE1 in the pathogenesis of PD.
Can effective population size estimates be used to monitor population trends of woodland bats? A case study of Myotis bechsteinii
Authors: Wright Patrick G. R. , Schofield Henry , Mathews Fiona
Published: February 2021

Molecular approaches to calculate effective population size estimates (Ne) are increasingly used as an alternative to long‐term demographic monitoring of wildlife populations. However, the complex ecology of most long‐lived species and the consequent uncertainties in model assumptions means that effective population size estimates are often imprecise. Although methods exist to incorporate age structure into Ne estimations for long‐lived species with overlapping generations, they are rarely used owing to the lack of relevant information for most wild populations. Here, we performed a case study on an elusive woodland bat, Myotis bechsteinii, to compare the use of the parentage assignment Ne estimator (EPA) with the more commonly used linkage disequilibrium (LD) Ne estimator in detecting long‐term population trends, and assessed the impacts of deploying different overall sample sizes. We used genotypic data from a previously published study, and simulated 48 contrasting demographic scenarios over 150 years using the life history characteristics of this species The LD method strongly outperformed the EPA method. As expected, smaller sample sizes resulted in a reduced ability to detect population trends. Nevertheless, even the smallest sample size tested (n = 30) could detect important changes (60%–80% decline) with the LD method. These results demonstrate that genetic approaches can be an effective way to monitor long‐lived species, such as bats, provided that they are undertaken over multiple decades.
An isolated white‐tailed deer (Odocoileus virginianus) population on St. John, US Virgin Islands shows low inbreeding and comparable heterozygosity to other larger populations
Authors: Nelson Suzanne L. , Taylor Scott A. , Reuter Jon D.
Published: February 2021

This is the first study to document the genetic diversity of the white‐tailed deer population on St. John, US Virgin Islands. The island population was founded by a small number of animals, has very limited hunting or predation, and recently experienced a reduction in size following an extended drought in 2015. DNA samples were collected from hair from 23 anesthetized adult deer (13 males, 10 females) ranging in age from 1 to 8 years (3.36 ± 1.9 years) and also from fecal DNA samples, for a total of 42 individuals analyzed for genetic diversity. The St. John deer data set averaged 4.19 alleles per marker and demonstrates the second lowest number of alleles (A) when compared to other populations of Odocoileus virginianus (4.19). Heterozygosity was similar to the other studies (0.54) with little evidence of inbreeding. To explain the level of heterozygosity and level of inbreeding within the St. John population, three hypotheses are proposed, including the effect of intrinsic biological traits within the population, a recent infusion of highly heterogeneous loci from North American populations, and a consistent level of immigration from a nearby island. Additional work is needed to further understand the genetic history of the St. John and regional deer populations.
Differences in quality of life between genders in acromegaly
Authors: Ballesteros‐Herrera Daniel , Briseño‐Hernández Paulina , Pérez‐Esparza Rodrigo , Portocarrero‐Ortiz Lesly A.
Published: February 2021

Objective

To study the impact of secondary mental disorders in patients affected with acromegaly and correlate them with quality of life (QoL) and disease status.

Design

An observational transversal descriptive and comparative study that evaluates QoL's impact due to secondary mental disorders in affected Mexicans with acromegaly using AcroQoL and SF‐36 instruments. Correlation of the results with the disease's biochemical status was performed. According to Beck's scales, anxiety and depression analyses evaluate QoL's impact, and its gender variability is described.

Results

Eighty‐five patients with diagnoses of acromegaly were included. The mean age was 43.18 years, 47 being women (55.29%). The mean age at diagnosis was 37.95 years, with no difference between men and women. AcroQoL and SF‐36 global and sub‐domain scores differed significantly between men and women, the latter having lower global and individual sub‐domain scores. The mean score of QoL, according to AcroQoL, is 59.40. In women, the mean values are less (55.13) than men (64.68), p = 0.021. The sub‐domain analyses’ scores in physical, appearance and social relationships were less in women (53.21; 47.34; 62.32) than men (62.68; 56.76; 73.87) p = 0.044, 0.069 and 0.013, respectively. Higher Beck's Depression Inventory (BDI) and Beck's Anxiety Inventory (BAI) scores correlated with lower QoL as assessed by global and individual sub‐domain scores. Women presented significantly higher BDI and BAI mean scores when compared to men regardless of their biochemical status. Anxiety (p = 0.027) and depression (p < 0.001) severity were higher in women compared to men.

Conclusion

Correlations between female gender, depression/anxiety scores and QoL require further validation. There is much to be routinely done to improve secondary psychopathology in patients affected by this disease. The need for mental status screening at diagnosis should be emphasized to identify secondary mental illnesses to improve QoL with its treatment.
Eligibility for subcutaneous implantable cardioverter‐defibrillator in adults with congenital heart disease
Authors: Zormpas Christos , Silber‐Peest Ann Sophie , Eiringhaus Jörg , Hillmann Henrike A.K. , Hohmann Stephan , Müller‐Leisse Johanna , Westhoff‐Bleck Mechthild , Veltmann Christian , Duncker David
Published: February 2021

Aims

Patients with adult congenital heart disease (ACHD) carry an increased risk for sudden cardiac death. Implantable cardioverter‐defibrillator (ICD) therapy may be challenging in these patients due to anatomical barriers, repeated cardiac surgery, or complicated transvenous access. Thus, the subcutaneous ICD (S‐ICD) can be a promising alternative in this patient population. Patients with ACHD show significant electrocardiogram (ECG) abnormalities, which could affect S‐ICD sensing because it depends on surface ECG.

Methods and results

One hundred patients with ACHD were screened for S‐ICD eligibility. Standard ECG‐based screening test and automated S‐ICD screening test were performed in all patients. Sixty‐six patients (66%) were male. Underlying congenital heart disease (CHD) was mainly CHD of great complexity (71%) and moderate complexity (29%), including repaired tetralogy of Fallot (20%), which was the most common entity. Thirty‐seven patients (37%) already had a pacemaker (23%) or ICD (14%) implanted. Automated screening test identified 83 patients (83%) eligible for S‐ICD implantation in either left parasternal position (78%) or right parasternal position (75%). Absence of sinus rhythm, QRS duration, and a paced QRS complex were associated with S‐ICD screening failure in univariate analysis. Receiver operating characteristic curve and multivariate analysis revealed a QRS duration ≥148 ms as the only independent predictor for S‐ICD screening failure.

Conclusions

Patients with ACHD show satisfactory eligibility rates (83%) for S‐ICD implantation utilizing the automated screening test, including patients with CHD of high complexity. S‐ICD therapy should be considered with caution in ACHD patients with a QRS duration ≥148 ms and/or need for ventricular pacing.
TFF3 mediates the NF‐κB/COX2 pathway to regulate PMN‐MDSCs activation and protect against necrotizing enterocolitis
Authors: Liu Jingping , Yang Qiong , Chen Ziyang , Lv Shuaijun , Tang Jian , Xing Zhe , Shi Mengyu , Lei Aihua , Xiao Gang , He Yumei
Published: February 2021

Intestinal trefoil factor 3 (TFF3) plays an important role in repairing the intestinal mucosa. However, the detailed mechanism regarding immune regulation by TFF3 is not well defined. Here, we reported that treatment of mouse BM cells and human peripheral blood mononuclear cells from healthy volunteers with TFF3 activated polymorphnuclear myeloid‐derived suppressor cells (PMN‐MDSCs) in vitro. We also found that prostaglandin E2 is a major TFF3‐mediated MDSC target, and that NF‐κB/COX2 signaling was involved in this process. Moreover, TFF3 treatment or transfer of TFF3‐derived PMN‐MDSCs (TFF3‐MDSCs) to experimental necrotizing enterocolitis (NEC) mice caused PMN‐MDSC accumulation in the lamina propria (LP), which was associated with decreased intestinal inflammation, permeability, bacterial loading, and prolonged survival. Interestingly, no NEC severity remission was observed in Rag1 KO mice that were given TFF3‐MDSCs, but coinjection with CD4+ T cells significantly relieved NEC inflammation. Overall, TFF3 mediates the NF‐κB/COX2 pathway to regulate PMN‐MDSC activation and attenuates NEC in a T‐cell‐dependent manner, which suggests a novel mechanism in preventing NEC occurrence.
Phosphorescent Cyclometalated Platinum(II) Imidazolinylidene Complexes
Authors: Stipurin Sergej , Strassner Thomas
Published: February 2021

We present the synthesis and characterization of six novel bidentate
cyclometalated platinum(ii) complexes derived from saturated N‐heterocyclic carbene precursors, namely 1‐aryl‐3‐methyl‐1H‐4,5‐dihydroimidazolium salts. The title compounds were then synthesized by a multi‐step reaction, which includes an in situ generation of the silver carbene complex, followed by transmetalation to platinum and subsequent introduction of the β‐diketonate ligand. Structural characterization by NMR experiments and solid‐state structures prove the cyclometalation and the saturated backbone of the NHC motif. Photophysical and electrochemical properties of the platinum(ii) complexes were examined and studied in detail by DFT calculations. The title compounds are strongly emissive at room temperature in the sky‐blue region of the visible spectrum and show quantum yields of up to 71 % in a PMMA matrix.
Mn–Doped Hollow Na3V2O2(PO4)2F as a High Performance Cathode Material for Sodium Ion Batteries
Authors: Du Peng , Mi Kan , Hu Fangdong , Jiang Xiaolei , Zheng Xiuwen
Published: February 2021

Na3V2O2(PO4)2F (marked as NVOPF) is a promising cathode material for sodium‐ion batteries owing to its high voltage and theoretical energy density, while the low electrical conductivity hinders its practical applications. Ion‐doping could effectively improve electronic conductivity and structural stability of these materials. In this study, Mn‐doping Na3V2−xMnxO2(PO4)2F (0≤x≤0.15) hollow microspheres were successfully synthesized by hydrothermal method in the presence of H2O2. Among these obtained materials, NVMOPF‐0.050 exhibits the best electrochemical performance with initial discharge capacity of 118 mAh g−1 and 61 mAh g−1 at 0.1 C and 2 C as cathode material for sodium ion batteries. Excellent performance can be attributed to the hollow spherical architecture, and good structural stability.
One foot out the door: Stay/leave ambivalence predicts day‐to‐day fluctuations in commitment and intentions to end the relationship
Authors: Joel Samantha , Stanton Sarah C. E. , Page‐Gould Elizabeth , MacDonald Geoff
Published: February 2021

Why do some people maintain stable feelings of commitment toward their partners, whereas others’ feelings wax and wane from day to day? The current article draws insight from decision conflict research suggesting that individuals torn between decision options are particularly susceptible to attitude change. In three samples, we validated a stay/leave ambivalence scale to capture internal conflict about whether to remain in versus exit a relationship. In two dyadic daily experience studies, individuals who felt more ambivalent about their relationships experienced greater daily fluctuation in commitment and breakup contemplation compared to less ambivalent individuals. Ambivalent individuals’ relationship intentions were also more strongly tied to their daily experiences, such that they felt more motivated to stay on days with greater relationship positivity, and more motivated to leave on days with greater relationship negativity. We discuss implications of these results for ambivalent individuals, their partners, and our understanding of stay/leave decision processes.
Tethered humanity: Humanizing self and others in response to interpersonal harm
Authors: Vaes Jeroen , Bastian Brock
Published: February 2021

We propose an integrative framework in which the self‐image of perpetrators and victims in interpersonal conflictual relationships becomes tethered to each other. To the extent that both parties stop seeing themselves as fully human when interpersonal harm is inflicted, we theorize that this state motivates attempts at restoration. Specifically, we propose the tethered humanity hypothesis which ascertains that perpetrators or victims can reclaim their full human status by re‐establishing the humanness of the opposing party. This hypothesis was analyzed from both the perspective of the perpetrator (Studies 1–3) and the victim (Study 4). In all studies, results indicated that perpetrators or victims self‐dehumanize in response to interpersonal harm and managed to regain a full human status when re‐humanizing the opposing party. Interestingly, this process was interrupted when the opposing party did not accept attempts at reconciliation. Our findings offer a new interpersonal perspective on the implications of immoral behavior.
Partner support and goal outcomes during COVID‐19: A mixed methods study
Authors: Vowels Laura M. , Carnelley Katherine B. , Francois‐Walcott Rachel R. R.
Published: February 2021

During the COVID‐19 pandemic, people have been stuck indoors with their partners for months. Having a supportive partner is likely to be especially important during this time when access to outside sources of support is limited. The present mixed‐methods study aimed to investigate how partner support is associated with goal outcomes during COVID‐19. The survey participants (n = 200) completed a daily diary for a week and five weekly longitudinal reports, and 48 participants attended a semi‐structured interview. The quantitative results showed that higher relational catalyst support (i.e., support for growth opportunities) predicted better goal outcomes; qualitative analyses revealed partners use direct and indirect forms of emotional and instrumental support toward goal pursuit. This is important because most studies to date have not differentiated between direct and indirect forms of support. Overall, the findings suggest that having a supportive partner is important for not only surviving, but also thriving through the pandemic.
Confrontation as an interpersonal response to ostracism
Authors: Zimmerman Carla A. , Carter‐Sowell Adrienne R. , Ganesan Asha
Published: February 2021

Ostracism—being ignored and excluded by others—has detrimental effects on targets. Confrontation allows targets to express displeasure with mistreatment. Three studies examined confrontation in response to ostracism. In Study 1, participants completed an ostracism manipulation, Cyberball, and were given the opportunity to message their ostracizers. Message coding indicated that one‐third of targets wrote messages expressing unhappiness with how they were treated, significantly more than included participants. In Studies 2 and 3, participants completed Cyberball before random assignment to a distraction, writing, or confrontation task. Analysis of need‐recovery indicated that the distraction consistently improved need‐satisfaction and affective recovery between the immediate and delayed measurements. Results provided mixed support regarding the effectiveness of confrontation in coping with ostracism; however, no significant changes in need satisfaction were seen for those in the writing condition. In sum, distraction is a response to ostracism that may improve the recovery of depleted need‐satisfaction following ostracism better than confrontation.
‘Enemy of the people’: Family identity as social cure and curse dynamics in contexts of human rights violations
Authors: Kellezi Blerina , Guxholli Aurora , Stevenson Clifford , Ruth Helen Wakefield Juliet , Bowe Mhairi , Bridger Kay
Published: February 2021

Although Social Cure research shows the importance of family identification in one's ability to cope with stress, there remains little understanding of family responses to human rights violations. This is the first study to explore the role of family identity in the collective experience of such violations: meanings ascribed to suffering, family coping strategies, and family‐based understandings of justice. Semi‐structured interviews (N = 27) with Albanian dictatorship survivors were analysed using Social Identity Theory informed thematic analysis. The accounts reveal Social Cure processes at work, whereby family groups facilitated shared meaning‐making, uncertainty reduction, continuity, resilience‐building, collective self‐esteem, and support, enhanced through common fate experiences. As well as being curative, families were contexts for Social Curse processes, as relatives shared suffering and consequences collectively, while also experiencing intergenerational injustice and trauma. Although seeking and achieving justice remain important, the preservation of family identity is one of the triumphs in these stories of suffering.
Optimization of the Design and Operating Conditions of an Amperometric Biosensor for Glutamate Concentration Measurements in the Blood Plasma
Authors: Mruga D. , Soldatkin O. , Paliienko K. , Topcheva A. , Krisanova N. , Kucherenko D. , Borisova T. , Dzyadevych S. , Soldatkin A.
Published: February 2021

Today, the concentration of glutamate in the patient′s blood is an important indicator in medical diagnostics; therefore, it is necessary to have a simple, accurate, and fast tool to obtain the data. Here, a recently developed amperometric glutamate‐sensitive biosensor was optimized to improve its characteristics. The platinum disk electrode was used as a transducer. As a bioselective element we used the enzyme glutamate oxidase, covalently crosslinked with bovine serum albumin by glutaraldehyde. Circumstances of enzyme immobilization on the transducer‘s surface were optimized (enzyme and glutaraldehyde concentrations and immobilization duration). To test the ability of this biosensor to work in biological environments containing complex biological substances, the influence of the working solution was investigated (concentration of the working buffer, its temperature, presence of the protein in the analyzed sample). The linear range of biosensor was from 5 to 600 μM of glutamate and the sensitivity was 150–200 nA/mM. Measurements of glutamate concentrations in the blood plasma were performed by biosensor and glutamate dehydrogenase assay. The linear correlation between the methods was found in a range of 50.4–182.5 μM (R2=0.99). Thus, it has been shown that the developed biosensor makes it possible to measure the concentration of glutamate in blood plasma.
A Novel Sensor Based on Carbon Paste Electrode Modified with Polypyrrole/Multi‐walled Carbon Nanotubes for the Electrochemical Detection of Cytostatic Drug Rapamycin
Authors: Zrinski Ivana , Martinez Sanja , Ortner Astrid , Samphao Anchalee , Zavašnik Janez , Kalcher Kurt , Mehmeti Eda
Published: February 2021

The electrocatalytic oxidation of rapamycin, one of the most studied immunosuppressant, cancer‐preventing drug, is investigated for the first time on the surface of the modified carbon paste electrode prepared by incorporating multi‐walled carbon nanotubes (MWCNTs) and conductive polymer pyrrole using differential pulse voltammetry (DPV). Rapamycin exhibited a well‐defined oxidation peak at +1.1 V (versus Ag/AgCl) in Briton Robinson buffer solution with a pH 4.0. Effect of the most important experimental parameters was optimized and obtained signals are linear to the concentration of rapamycin in the range from 0.1 to 20 μM with 0.06 μM limit of detection. The repeatability is calculated as ±2 % and the reproducibility as ±5 %. The possible interfering compounds were tested showing negligible effect and the sensor was successfully applied for the determination of rapamycin in commercial pharmaceutical formulations with obtained recoveries in the range from 98 % to 102 %.
Simple carbazole derivatives with mono/dimethoxyphenylacrylonitrile substituents as hole‐transporting materials: Performance studies in hybrid perovskite solar cells
Authors: Keremane Kavya S. , Adhikari Airody Vasudeva
Published: February 2021

Herein, we report the development of two new low‐cost 9‐(2‐ethylhexyl)‐9H‐carbazoles carrying the mono/dimethoxyphenyl substituted cyanovinylene units symmetrically at 3‐ and 6‐positions of the carbazole core (CZ1‐2), as potential hole‐transporting materials (HTMs) for perovskite solar cell (PSC) application. The current work highlights their structural, photophysical, electrochemical, theoretical, and photoelectrochemical studies, including evaluation of their structure‐property relationships. Evidently, the optical studies showcased their excellent fluorescence ability due to their push‐pull natured structure; their λabs and λemi values were found to be in the order of 410–430 nm and 530–560 nm, respectively, with a bandgap in the range of 2.5–2.6 eV. Further, their theoretical studies, performed by using the DFT simulations clearly revealed in‐depth information on their molecular geometries, FMO, and electronic properties. Finally, new PSCs were fabricated successfully by employing CZ1‐2 as HTMs to evaluate their photovoltaic performances. Their results indicated that the device with CZ1 displayed enhanced PCE of 2.55% (JSC = 7.85 mA/cm2, VOC = 0.79 V and FF = 40%) than the cell with CZ2 (PCE = 1.71%, JSC = 8.15 mA/cm2, VOC = 0.4 V, FF = 49%) and the obtained data are well comparable with reference, Sipro‐OMeTAD (PCE = 4.76%, JSC = 12.27 mA/cm2, VOC = 0.84 V, FF = 45%). Conclusively, the study furnishes a deeper understanding of the intricacies involved in the structural modification of in low‐cost HTM in achieving an enhanced performance of the devices.
Fresh insights into detonation nanodiamond aggregation: An X‐ray photoelectron spectroscopy, thermogravimetric analysis, and nuclear magnetic resonance study
Authors: Katsiev Khabiboulakh , Solovyeva Vera , Mahfouz Remi , Abou‐Hamad Edy , Peng Wei , Idriss Hicham , Kirmani Ahmad R.
Published: February 2021

Detonation nanodiamonds (DNDs) are known to be produced in aggregated clusters of a few nanometer‐sized primary crystalline particles embedded in an amorphous carbon matrix exhibiting high degree of polydispersity. A commonly accepted mechanism behind DND aggregation is the bridging of primary particles via oxygen containing functionalities. Here, we provide definitive spectroscopic evidence in favor of this working mechanism by carrying out systematic chemical compositional analysis on monodispersed DND aggregates of various sizes. Oxygen content is found to increase proportionally with the aggregate size confirming the role of oxygen containing functionalities as a cross‐linker. Solid‐state nuclear magnetic resonance data confirms these linkers to be of ether (COC) nature. Our results imply that oxygen content in DNDs can be independently tuned by varying the aggregate size, a knowledge which might benefit other applications, in addition. Next, we use this understanding to engineer the DND surfaces via an acid hydrolysis step to strip off these oxygen functionalities leading to size reduction of ca. 150 nm as‐received DND aggregates to ca. 40 nm with >90% yields, without resorting to any other pre‐ or post‐hydrolysis treatment such as surface functionalization or milling.
An Anion‐Exchange Membrane Fuel Cell Containing Only Abundant and Affordable Materials
Authors: Biemolt Jasper , Douglin John C. , Singh Ramesh K. , Davydova Elena S. , Yan Ning , Rothenberg Gadi , Dekel Dario R.
Published: February 2021

Herein, a unique anion‐exchange membrane fuel cell (AEMFC) containing only affordable and abundant materials is presented: NiFe hydrogen oxidation reaction (HOR) and nitrogen‐doped carbon oxygen reduction reaction (ORR) electrocatalysts. AEMFCs are an attractive alternative to proton‐exchange membrane fuel cells. They can run under alkaline conditions, allowing the use of platinum group metal (PGM)‐free electrocatalysts. Yet, the same alkaline conditions incur an overpotential loss in ORR and also slow the HOR. This can be solved by using PGM electrodes, but then the original advantage disappears. In contrast, the fuel cell is free of both PGMs and critical raw materials (CRMs). Electrochemical studies confirmed that the catalysts are highly active in both HOR and ORR in an alkaline electrolyte. The morphology, composition, and chemical states of the electrocatalysts are characterized by different techniques, including scanning electron microscopy (SEM), transmission electron microscopy (TEM), X‐ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS), X‐ray diffraction (XRD), and electron energy loss spectroscopy (EELS). Then, the electrocatalysts’ performance is tested in a fuel cell device. The cell gives a maximum power density of 56 mW cm−2 and a limiting current density of 220 mA cm−2. These results are among the best CRM‐free anion‐exchange membrane fuel cells reported to date.
Potential impact of global warming on wind power production in Central Asia
Authors: Turgali Dana , Kopeyeva Assel , Dikhanbayeva Dinara , Rojas‐Solórzano Luis
Published: February 2021

Global warming is affecting the Earth's surface temperature and consequently the intensity of near‐surface airstreams and wind power potential in many regions. Conversely, global wind power installed capacity is continuously growing during the last years. The economic viability and sustainability of centralized wind projects relies heavily on wind resources, efficient technologies, and an attractive and dynamic Feed‐in‐Tariff (FIT). Therefore, this study assesses the potential effect of global warming on the life‐cycle techno‐economic viability of future wind power projects in Central Asia, specifically in Kazakhstan. Hence, the Ereymentau Wind Power Plant (WPP) in the Northern region of Kazakhstan was selected as case study. Historic data showed that monthly averaged wind speed and ambient pressure can be treated as statistically stationary, and only the air density drop due to temperature increase of 0.2°C per decade is assumed in the present study. Our results predict a reduction in Net Present Value, Benefit–Cost Ratio, and Internal Rate of Return of 29 million KZT, of 0.0015, and 0.03%, respectively, in the lifetime of Ereymentau WPP. Moreover, an Equity payback increase of 0.4 years and a drop of 987 tCO2e in GHG emission reductions are projected. Consequently, our results indicate that global warming, despite of being a global problem of significance, would have a negligible impact in ongoing plans to develop the wind potential in Northern regions of Eurasian countries sharing similar conditions to those present in Ereymentau‐Kazakhstan.
Optimization of microalgal biomass and lipid productivities for bioenergy production using central composite design with desirability function
Authors: Zakir Hossain S. M. , Sultana N. , Hossain M. M. , Razzak S. A.
Published: February 2021

This study investigates the influences of light‐dark cycles and NaNO3 dose on Chlorella kessleri microalgal‐specific growth rate (SGR), biomass productivity (P), and intracellular lipid productivity (LP) by using central composite design with desirability function. A single‐objective optimization showed that the maximum SGR, P, and LP can be achieved as 0.487 day−1, 58.718 g/L day−1, and 14.252 mg/L day−1, respectively. The corresponding optimized light‐dark cycle and NaNO3 loading were determined as 11.6/8.4 (h/h) and 15.54 g/L, 12/12 (h/h) and 16.23 g/L, and 12/12 (h/h) and 6.63 g/L, respectively. The multi‐response optimization showed that the highest SGR of 0.359 day−1, biomass productivity of 50.663 g/L day−1 and LP of 14.114 mg/L day−1 can be accomplished at culture environments of 12/12 (h/h) light‐dark cycles and 10.38 g/L NaNO3. These results suggest that the central composite design with desirability function‐based technique is useful for design and operation of photobioreactors to produce lipid from microalgae. Analysis of variance was employed to explore the significance of the factors affecting microalgal growth as well as biomass and lipid productivities. The predicted optimized culture conditions were experimentally confirmed (error < 6%) indicating the process is robust and reliable.
Special issue: Marine and river bedforms dynamics, MARID VI
Authors: Lefebvre Alice , Winter Christian
Published: February 2021

Marine and river bedforms are rhythmic features driven by unidirectional or reversing currents and waves. They are ubiquitous on the floors of rivers, estuaries, coastal and marine settings. Despite a considerable history of dedicated studies, many aspects of their origin, development and dynamics are still the subject of scientific debate in various disciplines. The MARID conferences series hosts experts from geosciences, physics, engineering and other disciplines to provide a platform for the interdisciplinary exchange of fundamental and applied knowledge of marine and river dune dynamics. MARID VI took place in April 2019 in Bremen, Germany. Related scientific contributions are presented in this special issue of Earth Surface Processes and Landforms. An overview of the conference series and the specifics of MARID VI, as well as considerations in the context of equity, diversity and inclusion, are given. This introduction highlights the progress made with the papers published in the special issue.
6G: A comprehensive survey on technologies, applications, challenges, and research problems
Authors: Mahmoud Haitham Hassan H. , Amer Amira A. , Ismail Tawfik
Published: February 2021

The inherent limitations of the network keep on going to be revealed with the continuous deployment of cellular networks. The next generation 6G is motivated by these drawbacks to properly integrate important rate‐hungry applications such as extended reality, wireless brain‐computer interactions, autonomous vehicles, and so on. Also, to support significant applications, 6G will handle large amounts of data transmission in smart cities with much lower latency. It combines many state‐of‐the‐art trends and technology to provide higher data rates for ultra‐reliable and low latency communications. By outlining the system requirements, potential trends, technologies, services, applications, and research progress, this article comprehensively conceptualized the 6G cellular system. Open research issues and current research groups in their field of research are summarized to provide readers with the technology road‐map and the potential challenges to consider in their 6G research.
Using niche construction theory to generate testable foraging hypotheses at Liang Bua
Authors: Veatch Elizabeth G. , Ringen Erik J. , Kilgore Megan B. , Jatmiko
Published: February 2021

Niche construction theory (NCT) has emerged as a promising theoretical tool for interpreting zooarchaeological material. However, its juxtaposition against more established frameworks like optimal foraging theory (OFT) has raised important criticism around the testability of NCT for interpreting hominin foraging behavior. Here, we present an optimization foraging model with NCT features designed to consider the destructive realities of the archaeological record after providing a brief review of OFT and NCT. Our model was designed to consider a foragers decision to exploit an environment given predation risk, mortality, and payoff ratios between different ecologies, like more‐open or more‐forested environments. We then discuss how the model can be used with zooarchaeological data for inferring environmental exploitation by a primitive hominin, Homo floresiensis, from the island of Flores in Southeast Asia. Our example demonstrates that NCT can be used in combination with OFT principles to generate testable foraging hypotheses suitable for zooarchaeological research.
High yields of hybrid rice do not require more nitrogen fertilizer than inbred rice: A meta‐analysis
Authors: Xu Le , Yuan Shen , Wang Xinyu , Yu Xing , Peng Shaobing
Published: February 2021

Hybrid rice has been planted throughout China to ensure food security owing to its higher yield potential than inbred rice. Meanwhile, substantial nitrogen (N) fertilizer has been applied to feed hybrid varieties for maximizing grain yield. However, to what extent the higher yield of hybrid than inbred rice depends on N fertilizer input remains unclear. A meta‐analysis was conducted in this study to (1) quantify the difference in N uptake and utilization between hybrid and inbred rice; (2) determine whether hybrid rice requires more N than inbred rice for producing per unit grain yield; and (3) evaluate the impact of the difference in crop growth duration between hybrid and inbred rice on their yield performance. The results showed that, overall, hybrid rice achieved a 10.1% higher grain yield, and 9.7% higher daily grain yield than inbred rice. This grain yield advantage increased from 6.1% to 11.9% depending on whether hybrids have longer crop growth duration than inbred rice. The yield advantage of hybrid rice was explained by higher total N uptake and internal N use efficiency, but not explained by N fertilizer input. Moreover, the yield advantage of hybrid rice with N fertilizer was driven by higher yield without N fertilizer instead of yield response to N fertilizer. These results suggest that hybrid rice does not necessarily require more N fertilizer to achieve higher yield than inbred rice. Therefore, hybrid rice could be planted with fewer external N to ensure food security and reduce environmental costs.