bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Explosion Safety in Arctic Environment
Authors: Dalheim J. , Nodland S.
Published: December 2011

The harsh environment of the arctic requires specialized safety solutions. An important safety issue in the arctic is the need for additional enclosed modules. Enclosed modules are used to prevent: ice and snow from process equipment; cold climate from imposing an unduly harsh working environment on the operators. Enclosed mechanically ventilated process modules differ from the open naturally ventilated process modules normally used in offshore facilities. The explosion safety performance of the non-standard mechanically ventilated process modules has been studied in detail through an extensive program of CFD simulations. Mechanically ventilated modules have explosion risk drivers distinct from risk drivers in naturally ventilated modules. Significant factors which primarily impact the explosion risk levels on confined process modules are: module size; HVAC philosophy; ignition source isolation efficiency; and the use of pressure relief panels. The impacts of these factors on explosion risk are discussed in this paper, along with significant conclusions to consider with future development in the arctic climatic environment.

Introduction

The primary difference between enclosed and open modules is that any gas leak will be trapped inside the enclosed module. Only the HVAC system can extract the gas from an enclosed module (open module gas leaks can be directed out of the module, with accumulated flammable gas negligible). For all leaks (except smallest) in a confined module, the gas will accumulate relatively fast to flammable concentration levels and greater in large portions of the module. After the leak has stopped and the gas is slowly vented out of the module by the HVAC system, the rich gas will pass through flammable concentrations and form a large flammable gas cloud. This secondary peak of flammable volumes (first peak occurs soon after the leak with the growing gas cloud) is usually significantly larger and persists longer than the first peak. Safety systems which control the transient of the secondary peak (and the ignition intensity in this period) are seen to be significant in controlling the explosion risk.
Assessment of noise levels in 200 Mosques in Riyadh, Saudi Arabia
Authors: Al Shimemeri S A , Patel Chirag B , Abdulrahman Al Fayez
Published: December 2011

Introduction: Noise-induced hearing loss (NIHL) is a recognized concern within the context of occupational and general health. However, noise levels are seldom studied at nonworkplace and nonabode sites that are visited regularly, e.g., places of worship. The purpose of this study was to assess the noise levels inside and outside of mosque prayer rooms and to compare the levels with established noise tolerance limits. Materials and Methods : A portable digital sound level meter was used to determine the noise level (measured in dB) inside and outside of mosque prayer rooms. The highest (peak) and lowest noise levels from each recording were tabulated. Statistical analysis was performed using a two-tailed Student′s t-test(alpha = 0.05). Results : Noise levels were measured at 200 mosque prayer rooms from all 15 municipal districts of Riyadh, Saudi Arabia. Of these, 151 prayer rooms (75.5%) had both inside and outside noise measurements and the remaining 49 prayer rooms (24.5%) had only inside noise measurements. There was significantly greater noise outside compared to inside the prayer rooms, for both the highest noise level (outside: 87.8 ± 4.8 dB compared to inside: 85.8 ± 5.4 dB, P < 0.0001) and lowest noise level (outside: 58.4 ± 3.8 dB compared to inside: 56.6 ± 3.6 dB, P < 0.00001). In all, 112 of the inside highest level measurements (56%) and 113 of the outside highest level measurements (74.8%) were greater than 85 dB, the sound level at which NIHL has been shown to occur in occupational settings. Conclusion : A large proportion (56%) of mosque prayer rooms with inside peak noise measurements were above acceptable levels (85 dB), however, prayers certainly do not last for 8 continuous hours. Therefore, the level of noise at mosques is acceptable and in compliance with international norms of hearing safety; moreover, it does not present any risk to hearing in the long run.
Trending toward gero‐electroceuticals that target membrane potential for reprogramming aging and lifespan
Authors: Tabibzadeh Siamak , Brown Olen R.
Published: June 2024

Ion gradients across cell membranes generate voltage potentials that are involved in a wide range of biological processes. According to the membrane hypothesis of aging, aging is inextricably linked to a decrease in resting membrane potential (Vmem). Alterations in ion channel activity and membrane fluidity caused by aging disrupt bioelectric homeostasis, increase intracellular calcium and potassium concentrations, induce abnormal mechanistic target of rapamycin (MTOR)‐ and AMPK‐regulated metabolism and energy dissipation, and decrease proliferation and regeneration. Failure to maintain ion channel activity and membrane potential leads to cell senescence or death. There is evidence that by manipulating ion channel activities, a cryptic memory can be recalled to restore lost proliferative or regenerative abilities. Reversal or prevention of senescence, aging phenotypes, and longevity may be achieved by fine‐tuning mitochondrial membrane polarization. Therefore, there is optimism that deciphering the bioelectric codes that govern cell functions will lead to the development of new gero‐electroceuticals that restore cell function and prevent tissue loss during aging.
Self‐Gelling Quinone‐Based Wearable Microbattery
Authors: Bertaglia Thiago , Kerr Emily F. , Sedenho Graziela C. , Wong Andrew A. , Colombo Rafael N. P. , Macedo Lucyano J. A. , Iost Rodrigo M. , Faria Luana C. I. , Lima Filipe C. D. A. , Teobaldo Gabriel B. M. , Oliveira Cristiano L. P. , Aziz Michael J. , Gordon Roy G. , Crespilho Frank N.
Published: June 2024

Wearable power sources are envisioned since their development promises to speed up the widespread application of wearable devices in different areas, such as healthcare, smart‐city management, and robotics. Here, the 4′‐((9,10‐anthraquinone‐2‐yl)oxy)butyrate (2‐BEAQ), an anthraquinone derivative, is synthesized, and further applied for producing a redox‐active shear‐thinning hydrogel (BEAQ‐gel). The gel comprises cylindrical aggregates of 2‐BEAQ molecules dispersed within a water matrix, interconnected through ionic, ion‐dipole, and hydrogen bonding interactions. BEAQ‐gel also presents interesting rheological characteristics and composition tunability since it can be produced in a large range of concentrations. This improved redox 3D hierarchical network also makes the network capable of retaining high quantities of potassium hydroxide, thereby enhancing conductivity. By coupling BEAQ‐gel with Ferricyanide the development of a wearable battery is demonstrated, which exhibits an output voltage of 0.89 V even when bent at a 180° angle, making it suitable for powering wearable devices. This work presents an innovative alternative for the production of wearable devices, from the design of the anode and cathode materials to the wearable casing and demonstrates the use of redox‐active low‐molecular‐weight‐gel (LMWG) as an active material of a microbattery giving a valuable glimpse to the further development of wearable energy storage devices.
Spatial and Chemical Dual Nano‐Confined Ultrastable Perovskite Quantum Dots Glass Manifesting Exciton Modulation
Authors: Wang Pengwei , Hu Zhiping , Cong Peixi , Zhou Fengxian , Yue Qi , Xue Zixiao , Lin Chenfang , Jiang Ying , Du Juan , Pan Anlian , Zhang Long , Cui Jiabin , He Jin
Published: June 2024

Nano‐confined synthesis of perovskite quantum dots (QDs) in solid matrix is emerging as a promising route to solve their long‐standing stability problem. Utilizing sol‐gel derived nanoporous glass as matrix that has high flexibility in chemical composition and pore size, a novel spatial and chemical dual nano‐confined strategy is presented for the synthesis of ultrastable perovskite QDs with tunable composition and bandgap in glass. The findings reveal that the Pb─O bonding is formed at perovskite QDs/glass interface during a nano‐confined chemical vapor deposition (CVD) reaction. In particular, the presence of interfacial chemical bonding is discovered to be critical for passivating surface traps and stabilizing the perovskite QDs during the final densification process (related photoluminescence intensity maintained ≈100% after immersed in aqueous solution for 30 days). Series optical spectroscopy unravels the exciton modulation (80 meV) of perovskite QDs in nanoporous and densified glass related to the unique combination of dual physical and chemistry nano‐confined effect. By shedding light on the nano‐confined growth of functional nanocrystals, the research offers the key paths for fabricating high‐performance perovskite devices.
Enhancing Electronic and Magnetic Properties in Eu‐Doped GaN Nanowires via p‐f Hybridization of Eu‐Defect Complexes
Authors: Gudelli Vijay Kumar , Aravindh S Assa , Roqan Iman S.
Published: June 2024

Density functional theory (DFT) is employed based on the generalized gradient approximation (GGA), including the Hubbard (U) parameter, to investigate the modification of the electronic properties of GaN nanowires (NWs) by Eu dopants introduced via Eu‐associated defect complexes to explore the origin of magnetic characteristics. These findings show that incorporating Eu dopants, including Eu‐intrinsic defect complexes, in GaN NWs leads to a significant change in the electronic properties of GaN, as evident from p‐f state hybridization, resulting in unique magnetic characteristics. However, while Ga‐vacancies (VGa) in Eu‐doped GaN NWs impart a significant magnetic moment on N atoms, N‐vacancies (VN) produce a negligible effect on the magnetic properties of NWs. To predict the magnetic exchange effect, two Eu3+ ions are introduced in the NWs, showing that the complex with two Eu atoms and Ga‐vacancy (2Eu‐VGa) induces stable ferromagnetism above room temperature.
Photochemical Action Plots Map Orthogonal Reactivity in Photochemical Release Systems
Authors: Michenfelder Rita T. , Pashley‐Johnson Fred , Guschin Viktor , Delafresnaye Laura , Truong Vinh X. , Wagenknecht Hans‐Achim , Barner‐Kowollik Christopher
Published: June 2024

The wavelength‐by‐wavelength resolved photoreactivity of two photo‐caged carboxylic acids, i. e. 7‐(diethylamino)‐coumarin‐ and 3‐perylene‐modified substrates, is investigated via photochemical action plots. The observed wavelength‐dependent reactivity of the chromophores is contrasted with their absorption profile. The photochemical action plots reveal a remarkable mismatch between the maximum reactivity and the absorbance. Through the action plot data, the study is able to uncover photochemical reactivity maxima at longer and shorter wavelengths, where the molar absorptivity of the chromophores is strongly reduced. Finally, the laser experiments are translated to light emitting diode (LED) irradiation and show efficient visible‐light‐induced release in a near fully wavelength‐orthogonal, sequence‐independent fashion (λLED1 = 405 nm, λLED2 = 505 nm) with both chromophores in the same reaction solution. The herein pioneered wavelength orthogonal release systems open an avenue for releasing two different molecular cargos with visible light in a fully orthogonal fashion.
Stabilized Carbon‐Centered Radical‐Mediated Carbosulfenylation of Styrenes: Modular Synthesis of Sulfur‐Containing Glycine and Peptide Derivatives
Authors: Yang Zihui , Liu Jia , Xie Lan‐Gui
Published: June 2024

Sulfur‐containing amino acids and peptides play critical roles in organisms. Thiol‐ene reactions between the thiol residues of L‐cysteine and the alkenyl fragments in the designed coupling partners serve as primary tools for constructing C─S bonds in the synthesis of unnatural sulfur‐containing amino acid derivatives. These reactions are favored due to the preference for hydrogen transfer from thiol to β‐sulfanyl carbon radical intermediates. In this paper, the study proposes utilizing carbon‐centered radicals stabilized by the capto‐dative effect, generated under photocatalytic conditions from N–aryl glycine derivatives. The aim is to compete with the thiol hydrogen, enabling radical C─C bond formation with β‐sulfanyl carbon radicals. This protocol is robust in the presence of air and water, offers significant potential as a modular and efficient platform for synthesizing sulfur‐containing amino acids and modifying peptides, particularly with abundant disulfides and styrenes.
Regulating Water Activity for All‐Climate Aqueous Zinc‐Ion Batteries
Authors: Wang Yifan , Mo Li'e , Zhang Xianxi , Ren Yingke , Wei Tingting , He Yi , Huang Yang , Zhang Hong , Tan Peng , Li Zhaoqian , Zhou Jiang , Hu Linhua
Published: June 2024

Suppressing the water activity is challenging to achieve high‐performing aqueous zinc ion batteries (AZIBs), especially for its practical climate adaptability. Reconstructing the H‐bond network and repealing the solvation water can effectively reinforce the covalency inside water molecular. Here, a hydrogel electrolyte formula utilizing ClO4− anions and hydrophilic ─NH2 on polyacrylamide chains is shown to bond with water molecules, while the zincophilic glucose preferentially regulate Zn2+ solvation. The multifunctional hydrogel structure can effectively disrupt the intrinsic H‐bond network and inhibit the interface side‐reactions induced by active water. Finally, the delayed freezing point and expanded voltage stability window are realized, which promotes the ZIBs steady operate in a wide temperature range. When operating at 70 and −30 ˚C, the Zn//NVO battery achieves high specific capacity of 488 and 254 mAh g−1, respectively, surpassing most of the previously reported results. Remarkably, the pouch battery delivers the state‐of‐the‐art specific capacity of 438.1 mAh g−1 and realizes a capacity retention of 76.3% after 400 cycles at 200 mA g−1.
Striking a Balance: Decentralized and Centralized Wastewater Treatment Systems for Advancing Sustainable Development Goal 6
Authors: Saadatinavaz Fateme , Alomari Mohammed A. , Ali Muhammad , Saikaly Pascal E.
Published: June 2024

Water scarcity and sanitation pose a critical global challenge worsened by population growth and the finite nature of freshwater resources. Despite the United Nations’ Sustainable Development Goal 6 (SDG6) advocating for universal water and sanitation access, progress remains insufficient. Presently, approximately 50% of generated wastewater is released into the environment without adequate treatment, emphasizing the urgent need to address this issue. This article examines the socio‐economic and technical aspects of both centralized and decentralized wastewater treatment systems (DWTS) and assesses the environmental impact, spatial footprint, and energy usage across treatment technologies. An economic analysis underscores the cost advantages of DWTS, especially in sparsely populated regions. With modular designs, DWTS not only provides environmental and economic advantages but also enables water reuse. The research concludes that adopting DWTS is crucial in achieving SDG6 targets and ensuring universal access to safe sanitation, especially in low‐density and newly developed areas. This thorough investigation of wastewater management contributes to the ongoing dialogue on sustainable solutions amidst escalating global challenges of water scarcity and sanitation.
Synthetic Immunology—Building Immunity from the Bottom‐Up with Synthetic Cells
Authors: Staufer Oskar
Published: June 2024

Synthetic cells can advance immunotherapy, offering innovative approaches to understanding and enhancing immune responses. This review article delves into the advancements and potential of synthetic cell technologies in immunology, emphasizing their role in understanding and manipulating immune functions. Recent progress in understanding vertebrate immune systems and the challenges posed by diseases highlight the need for innovative research methods, complementing the analysis of multidimensional datasets and genetic engineering. Synthetic immune cell engineering aims to simplify the complexity of immunological systems by reconstructing them in a controlled setting. This approach, alongside high‐throughput strategies, facilitates systematic investigations into immunity and the development of novel treatments. The article reviews synthetic cell technologies, focusing on their alignment with the three laws of immunity: universality, tolerance, and appropriateness. It explores the integration of synthetic cell modules to mimic processes such as controlled T‐cell activation, bacteria engulfment and elimination, or cellular maturation into desirable phenotypes. Together, such advancements expand the toolbox for understanding and manipulating immune functions. Synthetic cell technologies stand at the innovation crossroads in immunology, promising to illuminate fundamental immune system principles and open new avenues for research and therapy.
Spectral and Transport Properties of Andreev Molecule Coupled to Majorana Wire
Authors: Górski Grzegorz , Kucab Krzysztof
Published: June 2024

The quasiparticle spectrum and transport properties of the double quantum dot (DQD) deposited on a superconducting substrate (Andreev molecule) and side‐coupled to a nanowire hosting Majorana zero modes (MZMs) are studied. Placing a DQD on the superconducting substrate induces the trivial Andreev‐bound states (ABSs) in quantum dots. However, coupling of DQD with a nanowire causes the leakage of the MZM from the topological nanowire into quantum dots. The relationship between the Andreev states and the Majorana mode for different values of the coupling parameters is analyzed. Additionally, it is shown that the connection point of a metallic tip, treated as an scanning tunneling microscope (STM) tip, affects the measured results of the differential conductance.
Entanglement Protection Using Weak Measurement in Non‐Markovian Environment
Authors: Yang Xiuyi , Zhang Feng , Yin Hongjie , Nie Jing
Published: June 2024

In this work, a scheme to protect quantum entanglement from a non‐Markovian noisy environment is proposed. By applying two quantum weak measurements before and after sending the quantum state into the noisy channel, the quantum state can be “pushed” closer to a decoherence‐free state, reducing decoherence during the time evolution. Then, the second weak measurement can partially retrieve the initial quantum state from the state corrupted by the noisy environment. The study involves a non‐Markovian dynamic equation to examine the impact of the memory effect on the protection scheme's performance. Various factors affecting the residual entanglement and the success probability are analyzed. The results suggest that two measurement strengths shall be chosen approximately in a linear relation, with the best ratio determined by the memory time of the environment. Additionally, it is demonstrated that the memory effect significantly enhances the protection efficiency. Lastly, the scheme's robustness against systematic errors is evaluated.
Participation experiences of indirect victims of child sexual homicide in parole proceedings
Authors: Luksic Ziliani María Asunción , Álvarez‐Lister María Soledad , Pietrasanta Nicolás , Acosta‐Fuentes Alejandra
Published: June 2024

Few studies have examined victim participation in parole processes, particularly in countries that have specific procedures for hearing victims' statements in post‐conviction proceedings. This study, through in‐depth interviews, explores the experiences of seven indirect victims of child sexual homicide, identifying their needs and expectations in a justice system lacking formal mechanisms for their involvement. Results emphasize the necessity for official information for families and the consequent frustration from the absence of formal participation. Parole application becomes a new challenge to the ongoing grieving process, leading to distress responses that may require specialized care. Recommendations about formal mechanisms for victim notification, participation and support during the parole process are noted to acknowledge their experience and emotional impact.
AAVS1‐targeted, stable expression of ChR2 in human brain organoids for consistent optogenetic control
Authors: Hong Soojung , Lee Juhee , Kim Yunhee , Kim Eunjee , Shin Kunyoo
Published: June 2024

Self‐organizing brain organoids provide a promising tool for studying human development and disease. Here we created human forebrain organoids with stable and homogeneous expression of channelrhodopsin‐2 (ChR2) by generating AAVS1 safe harbor locus‐targeted, ChR2 knocked‐in human pluripotent stem cells (hPSCs), followed by the differentiation of these genetically engineered hPSCs into forebrain organoids. The resulting ChR2‐expressing human forebrain organoids showed homogeneous cellular expression of ChR2 throughout entire regions without any structural and functional perturbations and displayed consistent and robust neural activation upon light stimulation, allowing for the non‐virus mediated, spatiotemporal optogenetic control of neural activities. Furthermore, in the hybrid platform in which brain organoids are connected with spinal cord organoids and skeletal muscle spheroids, ChR2 knocked‐in forebrain organoids induced strong and consistent muscle contraction upon brain‐specific optogenetic stimulation. Our study thus provides a novel, non‐virus mediated, preclinical human organoid system for light‐inducible, consistent control of neural activities to study neural circuits and dynamics in normal and disease‐specific human brains as well as neural connections between brain and other peripheral tissues.
Towards hybrid technical learning: Transforming traditional Laboratories for distance learning
Authors: Abekiri Najib , Ajaamoum Mohammed , Rachdy Azzedine , Nassiri Boujemaa , Benydir Mohamed
Published: June 2024

The rise in the number of students pursuing scientific and technical fields, along with the constraints of physical infrastructure and the difficulties posed by the COVID‐19 pandemic, has led to a reassessment of conventional laboratory learning. The shift towards virtual or remote laboratories is not only a response to these challenges but also a chance to enhance educational methodologies in science and engineering. This study aims to develop and evaluate a method for transforming traditional laboratories into distance laboratories for science and engineering education. The focus is on optimizing existing laboratory equipment and integrating low‐cost IoT solutions to facilitate distance experiments while adopting a hybrid learning approach. This approach seamlessly integrates theory, simulations, remote experiments, and reflective activities. The study analyzed a diverse group of students from the electrical engineering discipline, evaluating their engagement, motivation, and learning outcomes. The preliminary results suggest an increase in student motivation and engagement, demonstrating improved analytical capacity and a more comprehensive understanding of experimental concepts. The implementation of IoT solutions in traditional laboratories can transform them into hybrid learning environments. This integration of practical and digital methods can address challenges and improve learning experiences. It emphasizes the importance of evolving teaching practices to engage and motivate students in the digital era.
Tophaceous gout
Authors: Neupane Durga , Lageju Nimesh , Jaiswal Lokesh Shekher , Pandit Narendra , Mahat Asim , Ghimire Saransh , Pokhrel Upendra , Koirala Sefali
Published: June 2024

Key Clinical Message

Hyperuricemic patients (≥7.8 mg/dL) can develop polyarticular tophaceous gout from intermittent arthritis if untreated. Acute flares and tophi development can be avoided by lowering blood urate levels with xanthine oxidase inhibitors.
Severe coinfection of dengue and malaria: A case report
Authors: Siddig Emmanuel Edwar , Mohamed Nouh Saad , Ahmed Ayman
Published: June 2024

Key Clinical Message

In countries like Sudan, where several infectious diseases are prevalent, health care providers should not be satisfied with initial detection of a single pathogen and whenever it is feasible, they should investigate coinfections. Infections with high mortality or severe morbidity should be prioritized during the differential diagnosis particularly for diseases with similar clinical manifestations to reduce the death and disability rates. However, this requires substantial improvement in the diagnostic capacity.

Here we report a case of dengue and malaria coinfection from the southeast region of Sudan, bordering Ethiopia and Eritrea. A 25‐year‐old male from Sudan presented with symptoms of fever, chills, vomiting, and muscle and joint pain. Laboratory investigations confirmed a coinfection of dengue and malaria, which is assumingly not uncommon in areas heavily syndemic with several diseases but it is severely under‐detected, underreported, and underestimated. The case has fully recovered after the supportive care for dengue and chemotherapy treatment for malaria. In such a case, it was important to monitor the patient's recovery and the treatment outcome through clinical indicators and laboratory parameters to update the treatment course whenever needed, according to response. The increasing burden and outbreaks of vector‐borne diseases including dengue and malaria in Sudan, indicates the need for improving the implementation of the global vector control response that established by the World Health Organization. Additionally, the increasing prevalent of coinfections is urging substantial improvement in the diagnostic capacity in endemic countries.
Cellular‐resolution gene expression mapping reveals organization in the head ganglia of the gastropod, Berghia stephanieae
Authors: Ramirez M. Desmond , Bui Thi N. , Katz Paul S.
Published: June 2024

Gastropod molluscs such as Aplysia, Lymnaea, and Tritonia have been important for determining fundamental rules of motor control, learning, and memory because of their large, individually identifiable neurons. Yet only a small number of gastropod neurons have known molecular markers, limiting the ability to establish brain‐wide structure–function relations. Here we combine high‐throughput, single‐cell RNA sequencing with in situ hybridization chain reaction in the nudibranch Berghia stephanieae to identify and visualize the expression of markers for cell types. Broad neuronal classes were characterized by genes associated with neurotransmitters, like acetylcholine, glutamate, serotonin, and GABA, as well as neuropeptides. These classes were subdivided by other genes including transcriptional regulators and unannotated genes. Marker genes expressed by neurons and glia formed discrete, previously unrecognized regions within and between ganglia. This study provides the foundation for understanding the fundamental cellular organization of gastropod nervous systems.
‘Accelerated’ Deactivation of Carbon Nitride Photocatalyst for Solar Hydrogen Evolution
Authors: Xiao Mu , Lyu Miaoqiang , Wang Zitong , Wang Lianzhou
Published: June 2024

Carbon nitride photocatalysts are among the most studied candidates for efficient solar hydrogen (H2) production due to their abundance of precursors, suitable bandgap, and visible light utilization. However, the polymeric nature of carbon nitride materials raises concerns regarding the self‐decomposition during photocatalytic redox processes. Yet, the operational stability of carbon nitride photocatalysts for solar H2 production remains under‐explored. Here we evaluate the photostability of carbon nitride photocatalysts with platinum (Pt) as the co‐catalyst for solar H2 evolution and significant deactivation of this photocatalyst is observed under'accelerated’ testing conditions. It is demonstrated that the detachment of the Pt co‐catalyst on the surface of carbon nitride is the major reason for this deactivation, which can be attributed to a synergistic effect of photo‐corrosion and mechanical stirring. The photo‐corrosion weakens the interfacial bonding between carbon nitride and Pt co‐catalyst, while continuous collisions from the mechanical stirring promote the detachment of co‐catalysts from the surface of carbon nitride. These understandings provide insights into the rational design of photocatalysts and photocatalytic systems for improved operational stability.
A Comparison of Monoglyceride Production from Microalgaelipids and Rapeseed Oil Catalyzed by Metal Oxides
Authors: Ferreira Gabriela F. , Ríos Pinto Luisa F. , Filho Rubens Maciel , Fregolente Leonardo V. , Hayward James S. , Bartley Jonathan K.
Published: June 2024

This manuscript reports for the first time a heterogenous catalytic route to monoglycerides (MAGs) from microalgal oil. Microalgae is an important biomass source with high‐value applications, such as food ingredients with essential fatty acids. To date, the glycerolysis of microalgae has only been investigated for a microbial oil (Schizochytrium sp.) using enzyme catalysis. However, the use of enzymes on a large scale is currently economically impeditive and requires highly selective lipases. In this study, metal oxides were screened and the reaction conditions optimized for rapeseed oil. The optimized conditions were then used to investigate the production of MAGs from Scenedesmus sp. microalga. The most promising catalyst was found to be MgO/KOH, which gave a 44 % yield. Comparing two reaction systems (low temperature 70 °C/atmospheric pressure and high temperature at 200 °C/20 bar), it was found that the latter has a superior performance. Due to the stability of the product in air, the presence of an inert atmosphere is essential to achieve high yields.
Seasonality in functional connectivity: A case study with the American marten in Forillon National Park
Authors: Viau Julie‐Pier , Sigouin Daniel , St‐Laurent Martin‐Hugues
Published: June 2024

Protected areas are essential tools for reducing loss of global biodiversity. To fulfill their ecological functions, protected areas must be connected to their surroundings, a requirement that is difficult to meet in landscapes intensively disturbed by anthropogenic activities. Therefore, protecting movement corridors at the edges of protected areas is crucial, especially for species with broad habitat needs, such as the American marten (Martes americana). However, habitat selection and space use patterns are dynamic processes, so we could expect that functional connectivity would vary temporally in response to changing environmental conditions and levels of human activities. In this study, we aimed at predicting the location of movement corridors for the American marten in Forillon National Park and its periphery during two contrasted periods (snow‐free: May–November; snow‐covered: December–April). We used “seasonal” resource selection functions to identify core areas (interpreted as circuit “nodes”) and CircuitScape to delineate movement corridors between them based on the electrical circuit theory. Habitat selection patterns differed between periods, with martens avoiding open areas, high elevations and road proximity during the snow‐free period, while avoiding areas closer to secondary roads but selecting areas closer to primary roads and housing structures during the snow‐covered period. Consequently, the location of movement corridors differed partially between periods. Functional connectivity was favored by the presence of forest patches for both periods, while being constrained by open environments, especially during the snow‐free period. Our study highlights the importance of modeling functional connectivity at fine temporal scales in order to provide movement corridors that fulfill the requirements of a species at each period of its annual cycle.
(Radio)Fluorination Reactions for the Synthesis of Aryl Fluorides: Recent Advances and Perspectives
Authors: Han Jie , Zhang Zhan‐Ming
Published: June 2024

The formation of carbon‐fluorine (C−F) bonds is an important research field in organic synthesis because inserting a fluorine atom into an organic compound can alter its physicochemical properties, such as metabolic stability and permeability. Due to this unique property, organic fluorinated compounds, especially aryl fluorides, have a wide range of applications in various fields, including agrochemicals, pharmaceuticals, and materials science. Therefore, numerous metal‐ or metal‐free‐mediated fluorination reactions have been developed to synthesize aryl fluorides. In this mini‐review, we summarize recent ten years’ advances in fluorination reactions for the synthesis of aryl fluorides.
Benzodithiophene‐Based Copolymers as Dopant‐Free Hole‐Transporting Materials for Perovskite Solar Cells
Authors: Vineetha Pookalavan Karicherry , Nair Pratheesh Viswambharan , Sruthy Somanathan Pillai , Anas Saithalavi
Published: June 2024

Over a decade, single‐junction perovskite solar cells (PSCs) have achieved a remarkable power conversion efficiency of 26.4%. However, the pressing challenge remains to address their long‐term stability for large‐scale industrial production. A significant factor contributing to this instability is the use of doped hole‐transporting materials (HTMs), which often introduce moisture into contact with the perovskite film, leading to its degradation. To address this issue, research has focused on developing novel and stable “dopant‐free” HTMs. These materials possess inherent conductivity and can function without the need for additional dopants. These HTMs, constructed with donors and acceptors, have properties like film‐forming abilities, tunable molecular weights, unique stacking, and high hole mobility. Among the classic donor units, benzodithiophene (BDT) has emerged as a widely utilized component for the synthesis of molecules and polymers for photovoltaic applications. To stimulate further research and optimization of these materials, this overview presents a comprehensive examination of various BDT‐based dopant‐free polymeric HTMs with different acceptor units within the field of PSCs. It provides a concise historical overview, followed by an in‐depth classification and examination of polymeric structures. The exploration delves into their constituent building blocks, aiming to uncover the relationships between structure and activity wherever feasible.
Co‐pyrolysis of cypress sawdust and green algae over Ni/ZrO2 catalyst: Syngas yield and carbon emission
Authors: Wan Ziliang , Sun Wei , Tian Longjin , Fan Guozhi , Pan Cheng , Cheng Qunpeng
Published: June 2024

In order to promote syngas yield and reduce carbon emission, Ni loaded ZrO2 (Ni/ZrO2) catalysts were prepared for the co‐pyrolysis of cypress sawdust and green algae in a two stage fixed bed reactor. The syngas yield, syngas component, and carbon emission were investigated. The results showed that Ni/ZrO2 catalyst could obviously increase the combustible gas component in syngas. H2 content was increased from 7.5% (single component) and 8.12% (co‐pyrolysis) to 16.56% (catalytic pyrolysis). CO content was also increased from 19.62% (single component) and 19.46% (co‐pyrolysis) to 25.94% (catalytic pyrolysis). However the catalyst had a little effect on the syngas yield compared with single component pyrolysis and co‐pyrolysis. The pyrolysis temperature could make great influence on the carbon emission. The carbon emission reduction was increased from 33.32 to 234.25 g CO2 and from 105.94 to 369.23 g CO2, respectively for green algae and cypress sawdust.
Determining the exergy and energy efficiency of an organic Rankine cycle using fuzzy logic method
Authors: Elbir Ahmet , Şahin Mehmet Erhan
Published: June 2024

The Organic Rankine Cycle (ORC) serves as a pivotal technology for energy conversion, harnessing high‐temperature organic liquids sourced from heat reservoirs to propel turbines and generate electricity. This process not only facilitates the conversion of heat into mechanical energy but also significantly mitigates environmental impacts. ORC stands out as the preferred technology for enhancing energy efficiency and leveraging low‐temperature resources optimally. With the advent of artificial intelligence, particularly fuzzy logic, these systems have witnessed integration, providing a robust solution to address uncertainties. Unlike traditional logic, which offers binary outcomes, fuzzy logic offers a more adaptable approach by accommodating uncertainty, thus enabling modeling of complex real‐world situations. In this study, utilizing the fuzzy logic method, we estimated the energy and exergy efficiency of the ORC, resulting in an impressive 90% estimation accuracy.
Catalytic pyrolysis of torrefied biomass with molecular sieve catalysts to produce hydrocarbon rich biocrude
Authors: Singh Ranjita , Kakku Sivasankar , Shah Khushee , Zhang Xiaolei , Sharma Abhishek , Chakinala Nandana , Chakinala Anand G.
Published: June 2024

The downstream processing of biocrudes obtained from direct biomass pyrolysis poses significant challenges due to stability issues, necessitating costly upgrading for further coprocessing with refinery feeds. This study examines the impact of torrefaction pretreatment on pyrolysis product distribution and biocrude composition using sawdust (SD) and groundnut shell (GS) feeds. Torrefaction was conducted at varying temperatures (200, 250 and 300°C) for 30 min under different reactor conditions. Increasing the severity of torrefaction resulted in decreased biocrude yields with reduced water content and gas formation, particularly evident with GS. A torrefaction temperature of 250°C and 30 min of pretreatment yielded higher phenolics and hydrocarbons. This increase in phenolics can be attributed to lignin enrichment during torrefaction, which, in the presence of a catalyst, undergoes deoxygenation leading to hydrocarbon formation. The influence of feed particle size, whether in powder or pellet form, on biocrude yield and composition was found to be minimal. Catalytic pyrolysis of SD using molecular sieve catalysts yielded the highest hydrocarbon (42%) and aromatic content (44%) at catalyst to biomass ratios of 1:1 and 2:3. The combination of torrefaction and pyrolysis was shown to enhance the quality of biocrude by increasing its hydrocarbon content, but at the expense of lower liquid yields. Experimental observations were supported by statistical analysis tools such as principal component analysis, which assessed pyrolysis product yields and composition.
Review of the development and research of permeable pavements
Authors: Zhou Jinjun , Pang Yali , Du Wei , Huang Tianyi , Wang Hao , Zhou Meilin , Liu Jiahong
Published: June 2024

Permeable pavements, which not only increase rainwater infiltration and purify surface runoff water but also absorb noise and promote evaporative cooling, are an effective measure for alleviating urban flooding and the heat island effect. Moreover, permeable pavements have significant implications for the urban hydrological cycle and for human development that promotes ecosystem health. This paper reviews the development history of permeable pavements, evaluates the technical aspects and benefits thereof in the context of green city construction, and analyzes existing issues in the development of permeable pavements. This paper mainly discusses the current classifications of permeable pavements, the indicators used to evaluate permeable pavements, and construction techniques with a focus on two aspects: improving strength and removing blockages for planning, and three aspects: enhancing permeability, recycling resources, and preventing pollution for ecohydrological effects. Further, this paper discusses the benefits of permeable pavements and the commonly used methods for evaluating benefits. The main problems in the development and construction of permeable pavements include the limitations of permeable pavements, difficulty in evaluating their benefits, and restrictions on their applications. The following recommendations are proposed: improve the evaluation mechanism for permeable pavements, establish appropriate guidance for construction, scientifically and quantitatively analyse the feasibility of permeable pavement construction, evaluate the rationality of permeable pavement construction in various regions, and encourage the construction of permeable pavements in suitable areas. The importance of developing standards and technical specifications is also emphasized.
Potential causal links of long‐term exposure to PM2.5 and its chemical components with the risk of nasopharyngeal carcinoma recurrence: A 10‐year cohort study in South China
Authors: Sun Xurui , Lin Xiao , Yao Jijin , Tian Tian , Li Zhiqiang , Chen Shimin , Hu Weihua , Jiang Jie , Tang Hui , Cai Huanle , Guo Tong , Chen Xudan , Chen Zhibing , Zhang Man , Sun Yongqing , Lin Shao , Qu Yanji , Deng Xinlei , Lin Ziqiang , Xia Liangping , Jin Yanan , Zhang Wangjian
Published: June 2024

There is a lack of evidence from cohort studies on the causal association of long‐term exposure to ambient fine particulate matter (PM2.5) and its chemical components with the risk of nasopharyngeal carcinoma (NPC) recurrence. Based on a 10‐year prospective cohort of 1184 newly diagnosed NPC patients, we comprehensively evaluated the potential causal links of ambient PM2.5 and its chemical components including black carbon (BC), organic matter (OM), sulfate (SO42−), nitrate (NO3−), and ammonium (NH4+) with the recurrence risk of NPC using a marginal structural Cox model adjusted with inverse probability weighting. We observed 291 NPC patients experiencing recurrence during the 10‐year follow‐up and estimated a 33% increased risk of NPC recurrence (hazard ratio [HR]: 1.33, 95% confidence interval [CI]: 1.02–1.74) following each interquartile range (IQR) increase in PM2.5 exposure. Each IQR increment in BC, NH4+, OM, NO3−, and SO42− was associated with HRs of 1.36 (95%CI: 1.13–1.65), 1.35 (95%CI: 1.07–1.70), 1.33 (95%CI: 1.11–1.59), 1.32 (95%CI: 1.06–1.64), 1.31 (95%CI: 1.08–1.57). The elderly, patients with no family history of cancer, no smoking history, no drinking history, and those with severe conditions may exhibit a greater likelihood of NPC recurrence following exposure to PM2.5 and its chemical components. Additionally, the effect estimates of the five components are greater among patients who were exposed to high concentration than in the full cohort of patients. Our study provides solid evidence for a potential relationship between long‐term exposure to PM2.5 and its components and the risk of NPC recurrence.
Discrimination against suspected Islamic terrorists: Nationality, right‐wing authoritarianism, and perceived threat as predictors of support for torture
Authors: da Costa Silva Khalil , Torres Ana Raquel Rosas , Álvaro Estramiana José Luis , Garrido Luque Alicia
Published: June 2024

This research investigates discrimination against suspected Islamic terrorists based on tolerance for the use of torture. This research is justified by the need to identify how intergroup and ideological factors combine to express discrimination. Two experimental studies were conducted with a between‐subjects design. Study 1 (N = 282) analysed the terrorist threat against the ingroup and the nationality of torturers with respect to support for torture against suspected Islamic terrorists. Study 2 (N = 165) analysed the interaction among terrorist threat against the ingroup and perceived threat (realistic and symbolic) as moderators in the relationship between RWA and discrimination. Study 1 indicated that support for torture was greater when the victims of terrorist acts and the torturers belonged to the ingroup. Study 2 indicated that the perceived threat encourages support for the use of torture, regardless of the levels of RWA. Taken together, these results elucidate the psychosocial processes that are present in the hostility towards social minorities from predominantly Muslim countries and in the strengthening of xenophobic political positions.
Multiplexing Meta‐Illusion with High Correlation in Both Near‐ and Far‐Field Region
Authors: Huang Hailin , Guan Chunsheng , Zheng Bin , Li Xiaofeng , Cui Xingshuo , Liang Jiangang , Jiang Weixiang , Chen Hongsheng , Cai Tong
Published: June 2024

Microwave illusion, which can generate the scattering field of objects that don't exist to deceive the detecting devices, is an important and advanced technology in modern science. The conventional illusion device is limited by the narrow working band, non‐flat structure, or single functionality, which is inconvenient for electromagnetic integration. The newly multiplexing metasurfaces provide an effective method to achieve microwave illusion due to their excellent ability in wavefront tailoring. Here, a dual‐band microwave illusion enabled by multiplexing metasurface is proposed, and such a device can simulate two independent scattering fields of real objects at two separate frequencies by recording the near‐ and far‐field information. As a proof of concept, a meta‐illusion, realizing the electromagnetic information of the scaled‐down Sydney Opera House and Pyramid, is designed and fabricated. Microwave experiments are performed to demonstrate the predicted effects. The results show high correlation properties in both near‐ and far‐field characterizations, which is 83%, 80%, and 91%, 80% at two operating frequencies, respectively, verifying the high performance of the meta‐illusion. The findings may motivate the realizations of high‐performance meta‐illusions in other frequency domains and meta‐devices with complex functionalities.
Synthesis of New Glycine‐Based Polymers and their Thermoresponsive Behavior in Water
Authors: Mohimont Florent , Rieger Jutta , Stoffelbach François
Published: June 2024

In this work, new glycine‐derived polymers are developed that exhibit thermoresponsive properties in water. Therefore, a series of monomers containing one, two, or three amide functional groups and one terminal cyanomethyl group is synthesized. The resulting homopolymers, obtained by free radical polymerization (FRP) and reversible addition fragmentation chain transfer (RAFT) polymerization, display a sharp and reversible upper critical solution temperature (UCST)‐type phase transition in water. Additionally, it is shown that the cloud point (TCP) can be adjusted over more than 60 °C by the number of glycyl groups present in the monomer structure and by the polymer's molar mass. These novel thermoresponsive polymers based on cyanomethylglycinamide enrich the range of nonionic UCST polymers and are promising to find applications in various fields.