bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Accounting for variation in temperature and oxygen availability when quantifying marine ecosystem metabolism
Authors: Bracken Matthew E. S. , Miller Luke P. , Mastroni Sarah E. , Lira Stephany M. , Sorte Cascade J. B.
Published: January 2022

It is critical to understand how human modifications of Earth’s ecosystems are influencing ecosystem functioning, including net and gross community production (NCP and GCP, respectively) and community respiration (CR). These responses are often estimated by measuring oxygen production in the light (NCP) and consumption in the dark (CR), which can then be combined to estimate GCP. However, the method used to create “dark” conditions—either experimental darkening during the day or taking measurements at night—could result in different estimates of respiration and production, potentially affecting our ability to make integrative predictions. We tested this possibility by measuring oxygen concentrations under daytime ambient light conditions, in darkened tide pools during the day, and during nighttime low tides. We made measurements every 1–3 months over one year in southeastern Alaska. Daytime respiration rates were substantially higher than those measured at night, associated with higher temperature and oxygen levels during the day and leading to major differences in estimates of GCP calculated using daytime versus nighttime measurements. Our results highlight the potential importance of measuring respiration rates during both day and night to account for effects of temperature and oxygen—especially in shallow-water, constrained systems—with implications for understanding the impacts of global change on ecosystem metabolism.
Individual differences in the experience of body ownership are related to cortical thickness
Authors: Matuz-Budai Timea , Lábadi Beatrix , Kohn Eszter , Matuz András , Zsidó András Norbert , Inhóf Orsolya , Kállai János , Szolcsányi Tibor , Perlaki Gábor , Orsi Gergely , Nagy Szilvia Anett , Janszky József , Darnai Gergely
Published: January 2022

The widely used rubber hand illusion (RHI) paradigm provides insight into how the brain manages conflicting multisensory information regarding bodily self-consciousness. Previous functional neuroimaging studies have revealed that the feeling of body ownership is linked to activity in the premotor cortex, the intraparietal areas, the occipitotemporal cortex, and the insula. The current study investigated whether the individual differences in the sensation of body ownership over a rubber hand, as measured by subjective report and the proprioceptive drift, are associated with structural brain differences in terms of cortical thickness in 67 healthy young adults. We found that individual differences measured by the subjective report of body ownership are associated with the cortical thickness in the somatosensory regions, the temporo-parietal junction, the intraparietal areas, and the occipitotemporal cortex, while the proprioceptive drift is linked to the premotor area and the anterior cingulate cortex. These results are in line with functional neuroimaging studies indicating that these areas are indeed involved in processes such as cognitive-affective perspective taking, visual processing of the body, and the experience of body ownership and bodily awareness. Consequently, these individual differences in the sensation of body ownership are pronounced in both functional and structural differences.
Anti-Pseudomonas aeruginosa activity of a C16-terpene dilactone isolated from the endophytic fungus Neofusicoccum luteum of Kigelia africana (Lam.)
Authors: Bodede Olusola , Kuali Mamokoena , Prinsloo Gerhard , Moodley Roshila , Govinden Roshini
Published: January 2022

Fungal endophytes have the capacity to biosynthesize secondary metabolites that are produced by their host plants. In this study, a dilactone terpenoid of C16 architecture was isolated from the fungal endophytes of Kigeliaafricana, in our attempt to identify anti-Pseudomonasaeruginosa metabolites. Thirty-eight fungal isolates were cultured for biomolecule production over a period of thirty days. Extracts from three (ZF 34, ZF 52 and ZF 91) of the fungi showed good anti-P.aeruginosa activity, with ZF 52 presenting the best MIC of 19.53 µg/mL and was accordingly subjected to chromatographic separation. Based on nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR) spectroscopy, high resolution mass spectrometry and single crystal X-ray diffraction (XRD) analyses, the isolated compound was identified as a C16-terpene dilactone, with a structure consistent with that of the known diterpene, CJ-14445. The isolated dilactone showed anti-P.aeruginosa activity with MIC of 0.61 µg/mL, signifying the antibacterial potential of the biomolecule. The bioactive fungal isolate (ZF 52) was identified as Neofusicoccumluteum based on genomic DNA sequencing. This is the first report of the endophyte N.luteum from K.africana and the first reported occurrence of CJ-14445 in the fungus.
Variation in community and ambulance care processes for out-of-hospital cardiac arrest during the COVID-19 pandemic: a systematic review and meta-analysis
Authors: Masuda Yoshio , Teoh Seth En , Yeo Jun Wei , Tan Darren Jun Hao , Jimian Daryl Lin , Lim Shir Lynn , Ong Marcus Eng Hock , Blewer Audrey L. , Ho Andrew Fu Wah
Published: January 2022

Bystander cardiopulmonary resuscitation (BCPR), early defibrillation and timely treatment by emergency medical services (EMS) can double the chance of survival from out-of-hospital sudden cardiac arrest (OHCA). We investigated the effect of the COVID-19 pandemic on the pre-hospital chain of survival. We searched five bibliographical databases for articles that compared prehospital OHCA care processes during and before the COVID-19 pandemic. Random effects meta-analyses were conducted, and meta-regression with mixed-effect models and subgroup analyses were conducted where appropriate. The search yielded 966 articles; 20 articles were included in our analysis. OHCA at home was more common during the pandemic (OR 1.38, 95% CI 1.11–1.71, p = 0.0069). BCPR did not differ during and before the COVID-19 pandemic (OR 0.94, 95% CI 0.80–1.11, p = 0.4631), although bystander defibrillation was significantly lower during the COVID-19 pandemic (OR 0.65, 95% CI 0.48–0.88, p = 0.0107). EMS call-to-arrival time was significantly higher during the COVID-19 pandemic (SMD 0.27, 95% CI 0.13–0.40, p = 0.0006). Resuscitation duration did not differ significantly between pandemic and pre-pandemic timeframes. The COVID-19 pandemic significantly affected prehospital processes for OHCA. These findings may inform future interventions, particularly to consider interventions to increase BCPR and improve the pre-hospital chain of survival.
Plasticity of feeding behaviour traits in response to production environment (temperate vs. tropical) in group-housed growing pigs
Authors: Poullet Nausicaa , Rauw Wendy M. , Renaudeau David , Riquet Juliette , Giorgi Mario , Billon Yvon , Gilbert Hélène , Gourdine Jean-Luc
Published: January 2022

Heat stress affects pig metabolism, health and welfare, resulting in reduced growth and important economic losses. The present experiment aimed to evaluate the effects of two climatic environments [temperate (TEMP) vs. tropical humid (TROP)] on feeding behaviour in growing pigs. The feeding behaviour traits were measured with automated feeders and included: daily feed intake, daily eating time, feeding rate, daily number of meals, feed intake per meal, and feeding time per meal. Pigs came from a backcross population between Large White (LW, heat sensitive) and Creole (CR, heat tolerant) pigs. The same 10 F1 LW × CR boars (sire families [SF]) were mated with related LW sows in each environment. Feeding behaviour was recorded for a total of 1,296 pigs (n = 634 pigs for TEMP and n = 662 pigs for TROP) between 11 and 23 weeks of age. Growth performance and thermoregulatory responses (rectal and skin temperatures) were also measured. Results show that TROP conditions affect feeding behaviour traits: animals had more meals per day but these meals were smaller both in duration and in size, resulting in lower daily feed intake and less time eating per day. Significant SF by environment (GxE) interactions were found for all feeding behaviour traits. When SF were distributed into robust and sensitive groups (previously defined according to performance and thermoregulatory traits), results showed group by environment interactions for all feeding traits, except meal frequency. Moreover, a significant difference in feeding rate between robust and sensitive group was detected in TEMP, suggesting that feeding rate may be a good candidate to evaluate heat tolerance.
A mechanistic view on the aging human skin through ex vivo layer-by-layer analysis of mechanics and microstructure of facial and mammary dermis
Authors: Lynch Barbara , Pageon Hervé , Le Blay Heiva , Brizion Sébastien , Bastien Philippe , Bornschlögl Thomas , Domanov Yegor
Published: January 2022

Age-related changes in skin mechanics have a major impact on the aesthetic perception of skin. The link between skin microstructure and mechanics is crucial for therapeutic and cosmetic applications as it bridges the micro- and the macro-scale. While our perception is governed by visual and tactile changes at the macroscopic scale, it is the microscopic scale (molecular assemblies, cells) that is targeted by topical treatments including active compounds and energies. We report here a large dataset on freshly excised human skin, and in particular facial skin highly relevant for cosmetics and aesthetic procedures. Detailed layer-by-layer mechanical analysis revealed significant age-dependent decrease in stiffness and elastic recoil of full-thickness skin from two different anatomical areas. In mammary skin, we found that the onset of mechanical degradation was earlier in the superficial papillary layer than in the deeper, reticular dermis. These mechanical data are linked with microstructural alterations observed in the collagen and elastic networks using staining and advanced imaging approaches. Our data suggest that with ageing, the earliest microstructural and mechanical changes occur in the top-most layers of dermis/skin and then propagate deeper, providing an opportunity for preventive topical treatments acting at the level of papillary dermis.
miR-548j-5p regulates angiogenesis in peripheral artery disease
Authors: Lee Chiu-Yang , Lin Shing-Jong , Wu Tao-Cheng
Published: January 2022

Peripheral artery disease (PAD) is a vascular disease involving diffuse atherosclerosis, and is associated with increased cardiovascular mortality and morbidity. Critical limb ischemia (CLI) is the most severe complication of PAD. In addition to medical and interventional treatment, therapeutic angiogenesis is a novel therapy for PAD. Circulating microRNAs (miRNAs) are considered key regulators of gene expression, but their role in ischemic-induced angiogenesis is poorly-characterized. There is currently a limited understanding of the specific miRNAs associated with PAD. To determine the regulation of miRNAs, we obtained miRNA profiles using RNA isolated from patients with PAD and a control group. The effects of specific miRNAs on angiogenesis were evaluated by assessing the in vitro angiogenic function of endothelial progenitor cells (EPCs), performing an in vivo angiogenesis assay, and employing a mouse hindlimb ischemic model. Our results demonstrated that circulating miR-548j-5p was significantly reduced in patients with PAD as compared with the controls. miR-548j-5p promoted EPC angiogenesis by enhancing migration and tube formation. The endothelial nitric oxide synthase (NOS) and stromal cell-derived factor (SDF)-1 signaling pathways appeared to be potential targets of miR-548j-5p. Furthermore, the results of a directed in vivo angiogenesis assay of EPCs and a hindlimb ischemia mouse model demonstrated that miR-548j-5p enhanced the capillary density and blood flow recovery in hindlimb ischemia. In conclusion, our data indicated that up-regulation of miR-548j-5p promotes angiogenesis in ischemic tissue and may represent a novel therapeutic approach for PAD.
Effect of thickness and reaction media on properties of ZnO thin films by SILAR
Authors: Yergaliuly Gani , Soltabayev Baktiyar , Kalybekkyzy Sandugash , Bakenov Zhumabay , Mentbayeva Almagul
Published: January 2022

Zinc oxide (ZnO) is one of the most promising metal oxide semiconductor materials, particularly for optical and gas sensing applications. The influence of thickness and solvent on various features of ZnO thin films deposited at ambient temperature and barometric pressure by the sequential ionic layer adsorption and reaction method (SILAR) was carefully studied in this work. Ethanol and distilled water (DW) were alternatively used as a solvent for preparation of ZnO precursor solution. Superficial morphology, crystallite structure, optical and electrical characteristics of the thin films of various thickness are examined applying X-ray diffraction (XRD) system, scanning electron microscopy, the atomic force microscopy, X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy, ultraviolet–visible spectroscopy, photoluminescence spectroscopy, Hall effect measurement analysis and UV response study. XRD analysis confirmed that thin films fabricated using ethanol or DW precursor solvents are hexagonal wurtzite ZnO with a preferred growth orientation (002). Furthermore, it was found that thin films made using ethanol are as highly crystalline as thin films made using DW. ZnO thin films prepared using aqueous solutions possess high optical band gaps. However, films prepared with ethanol solvent have low resistivity (10–2 Ω cm) and high electron mobility (750 cm2/Vs). The ethanol solvent-based SILAR method opens opportunities to synthase high quality ZnO thin films for various potential applications.
Detection of impaired renal allograft function in paediatric and young adult patients using arterial spin labelling MRI (ASL-MRI)
Authors: Radovic Tijana , Jankovic Milica M. , Stevic Ruza , Spasojevic Brankica , Cvetkovic Mirjana , Pavicevic Polina , Gojkovic Ivana , Kostic Mirjana
Published: January 2022

The study aimed to discriminate renal allografts with impaired function by measuring cortical renal blood flow (cRBF) using magnetic resonance imaging arterial spin labelling (ASL-MRI) in paediatric and young adult patients. We included 18 subjects and performed ASL-MRI on 1.5 T MRI to calculate cRBF on parameter maps. cRBF was correlated to calculated glomerular filtration rate (GFR) and compared between patient groups with good (GFR ≥ 60 mL/min/1.73 m2) and impaired allograft function (GFR < 60 mL/min/1.73 m2). Mean cRBF in patients with good allograft function was significantly higher than in patients with impaired allograft function (219.89 ± 57.24 mL/min/100 g vs. 146.22 ± 41.84 mL/min/100 g, p < 0.008), showing a highly significant correlation with GFR in all subjects (r = 0.75, p < 0.0001). Also, the diffusion-weighted imaging (DWI-MRI) apparent diffusion coefficient (ADC) and Doppler measurements of peak-systolic and end-diastolic velocities and the resistive index (PS, ED, RI) were performed and both methods showed no significant difference between groups. ADC implied no correlation with GFR (r = 0.198, p = 0.464), while PS indicated moderate correlation to GFR (r = 0.48, p < 0.05), and PS and ED moderate correlation to cRBF (r = 0.58, p < 0.05, r = 0.56, p < 0.05, respectively). Cortical perfusion as non-invasively measured by ASL-MRI differs between patients with good and impaired allograft function and correlates significantly with its function.
Invasion front dynamics of interactive populations in environments with barriers
Authors: Azimzade Youness
Published: January 2022

Invading populations normally comprise different subpopulations that interact while trying to overcome existing barriers against their way to occupy new areas. However, the majority of studies so far only consider single or multiple population invasion into areas where there is no resistance against the invasion. Here, we developed a model to study how cooperative/competitive populations invade in the presence of a physical barrier that should be degraded during the invasion. For one dimensional (1D) environment, we found that a Langevin equation as$$dX/dt=V_ft+\sqrt{D_f}\eta (t)$$dX/dt=Vft+Dfη(t)describing invasion front position. We then obtained how$$V_f$$Vfand$$D_f$$Dfdepend on population interactions and environmental barrier intensity. In two dimensional (2D) environment, for the average interface position movements we found a Langevin equation as$$dH/dt=V_Ht+\sqrt{D_H}\eta (t)$$dH/dt=VHt+DHη(t). Similar to the 1D case, we calculate how$$V_H$$VHand$$D_H$$DHrespond to population interaction and environmental barrier intensity. Finally, the study of invasion front morphology through dynamic scaling analysis showed that growth exponent,$$\beta$$β, depends on both population interaction and environmental barrier intensity. Saturated interface width,$$W_{sat}$$Wsat, versus width of the 2D environment (L) also exhibits scaling behavior. Our findings show revealed that competition among subpopulations leads to more rough invasion fronts. Considering the wide range of shreds of evidence for clonal diversity in cancer cell populations, our findings suggest that interactions between such diverse populations can potentially participate in the irregularities of tumor border.
Effect of the toothbrush tuft arrangement and bristle stiffness on the abrasive dentin wear
Authors: Hamza Blend , Niedzwiecki Maria , Körner Philipp , Attin Thomas , Wegehaupt Florian J.
Published: January 2022

The geometrical properties of toothbrushes play a role in developing abrasive tooth wear and non-carious cervical lesions. This study investigated the interplay between the toothbrush tuft arrangement (crossed vs. parallel) and bristle stiffness (soft vs. medium) on the abrasive dentin wear using three slurries with different levels of abrasivity (RDA: 67, 121 and 174). Twelve groups of bovine dentin samples (n = 20) were brushed with a combination of the aforementioned variables. Abrasive dentin wear was recorded with a profilometer and the resulting abrasive wear of each group was calculated and compared with each other using two-way ANOVA and pairwise tests. Toothbrushes with parallel tuft arrangement caused statistically significantly higher dentin wear compared to crossed tuft arrangement, regardless of the abrasivity level of the used slurry and the bristle stiffness. Soft crossed tuft toothbrushes caused statistically significantly higher abrasive dentin wear than medium crossed tuft toothbrushes, while soft and medium parallel tuft toothbrushes caused the same amounts of dentin wear, regardless of the RDA value of the used slurry. These results could be helpful for dentists and dental hygienists when advising patients. Crossed tuft toothbrushes could be a less-abrasive choice in comparison to parallel tuft toothbrushes.
Predicting ketosis during the transition period in Holstein Friesian cows using hematological and serum biochemical parameters on the calving date
Authors: Ha Seungmin , Kang Seogjin , Han Manhye , Lee Jihwan , Chung Hakjae , Oh Sang-Ik , Kim Suhee , Park Jinho
Published: January 2022

Ketosis often occurs during the postpartum transition period in dairy cows, leading to economic and welfare problems. Previously, ketosis was reported to be associated with hematological and serum biochemical parameters. However, the association between the parameters on the calving date and ketosis during the postpartum transition period remains unclear. This study aimed to investigate this association. Blood samples were collected from the jugular vein of Holstein cows on the calving date and β-hydroxybutyrate was tested once every 3 days (8 times in 21 days). The cows were divided into three groups: non-ketosis, subclinical ketosis, and clinical ketosis. The clinical ketosis group significantly had the highest values of mean corpuscular volume, mean corpuscular hemoglobin, β-hydroxybutyrate, non-esterified fatty acids, and total bilirubin, but the lowest values of red cell distribution width, the counts of white blood cell, monocyte, and eosinophil, albumin, alanine transaminase, lactate dehydrogenase, and amylase. In contrast, the non-ketosis group showed the opposite results (p < 0.05). In conclusion, these parameters are associated with the development and severity of ketosis. Our findings suggest that these parameters on the calving date may be useful indicators to identify dairy Holstein cow susceptible to ketosis during the transition period.
Dominant change pattern of extreme precipitation and its potential causes in Shandong Province, China
Authors: Xia Jun , Yang Xu-yang , Liu Jian , Wang Mingsen , Li Jiake
Published: January 2022

Due to global warming, global and regional extreme precipitation events occur frequently, causing severe drought and flood disasters. This has a significant impact on productivity and human life. Therefore, it is of great significance to study the characteristics of extreme precipitation and its spatiotemporal variation. In this study, we investigate the dominant variation patterns of extreme precipitation (EP), which is characterized by indices, and also analyze its potential causes in the Shandong province of China during 1961–2015 using the daily precipitation data from 123 metrological stations. The results show that there has been a dry trend in the Shandong Province in the past 55 years, that is, with the decrease in precipitation, most of the extreme precipitation index has basically showed a downward trend to varying degrees. In particular, the increase in the number of consecutive dry days (CDD) and the decrease in the number of consecutive wet days (CWD) can better explain the drought in this region. After the 1980s, the extreme precipitation index basically showed an upward trend to varying degrees, indicating that extreme precipitation events have shown an increasing trend in recent years. The spatial distribution of each extreme precipitation index generally increased from north to south. The mutation of each extreme precipitation index occurred in the 1970s and 1990s, and there was a main period of 0.9–2.2 years. In terms of influencing factors, the NINO3 area can be used as the critical sea area for the response of extreme precipitation to SSTAs in the Shandong Province. The research results are helpful to understand the temporal and spatial variations of extreme precipitation and have very important reference value for the prediction of and response to climate change and extreme events in the future.
gp130/STAT3 signaling is required for homeostatic proliferation and anabolism in postnatal growth plate and articular chondrocytes
Authors: Liu Nancy Q. , Lin Yucheng , Li Liangliang , Lu Jinxiu , Geng Dawei , Zhang Jiankang , Jashashvili Tea , Buser Zorica , Magallanes Jenny , Tassey Jade , Shkhyan Ruzanna , Sarkar Arijita , Lopez Noah , Lee Siyoung , Lee Youngjoo , Wang Liming , Petrigliano Frank A. , Van Handel Ben , Lyons Karen , Evseenko Denis
Published: January 2022

Growth of long bones and vertebrae is maintained postnatally by a long-lasting pool of progenitor cells. Little is known about the molecular mechanisms that regulate the output and maintenance of the cells that give rise to mature cartilage. Here we demonstrate that postnatal chondrocyte-specific deletion of a transcription factor Stat3 results in severely reduced proliferation coupled with increased hypertrophy, growth plate fusion, stunting and signs of progressive dysfunction of the articular cartilage. This effect is dimorphic, with females more strongly affected than males. Chondrocyte-specific deletion of the IL-6 family cytokine receptor gp130, which activates Stat3, phenocopied Stat3-deletion; deletion of Lifr, one of many co-receptors that signals through gp130, resulted in a milder phenotype. These data define a molecular circuit that regulates chondrogenic cell maintenance and output and reveals a pivotal positive function of IL-6 family cytokines in the skeletal system with direct implications for skeletal development and regeneration.
Genomic interrogation of a MAGIC population highlights genetic factors controlling fiber quality traits in cotton
Authors: Wang Maojun , Qi Zhengyang , Thyssen Gregory N. , Naoumkina Marina , Jenkins Johnie N. , McCarty Jack C. , Xiao Yingjie , Li Jianying , Zhang Xianlong , Fang David D.
Published: January 2022

Cotton (Gossypium hirsutum L.) fiber is the most important resource of natural and renewable fiber for the textile industry. However, the understanding of genetic components and their genome-wide interactions controlling fiber quality remains fragmentary. Here, we sequenced a multiple-parent advanced-generation inter-cross (MAGIC) population, consisting of 550 individuals created by inter-crossing 11 founders, and established a mosaic genome map through tracing the origin of haplotypes that share identity-by-descent (IBD). We performed two complementary GWAS methods—SNP-based GWAS (sGWAS) and IBD-based haplotype GWAS (hGWAS). A total of 25 sQTLs and 14 hQTLs related to cotton fiber quality were identified, of which 26 were novel QTLs. Two major QTLs detected by both GWAS methods were responsible for fiber strength and length. The gene Ghir_D11G020400 (GhZF14) encoding the MATE efflux family protein was identified as a novel candidate gene for fiber length. Beyond the additive QTLs, we detected prevalent epistatic interactions that contributed to the genetics of fiber quality, pinpointing another layer for trait variance. This study provides new targets for future molecular design breeding of superior fiber quality.
Functional brain activity constrained by structural connectivity reveals cohort-specific features for serum neurofilament light chain
Authors: Sihag Saurabh , Naze Sébastien , Taghdiri Foad , Gumus Melisa , Tator Charles , Green Robin , Colella Brenda , Blennow Kaj , Zetterberg Henrik , Dominguez Luis Garcia , Wennberg Richard , Mikulis David J. , Tartaglia Maria C. , Kozloski James R.
Published: January 2022

Background

Neuro-axonal brain damage releases neurofilament light chain (NfL) proteins, which enter the blood. Serum NfL has recently emerged as a promising biomarker for grading axonal damage, monitoring treatment responses, and prognosis in neurological diseases. Importantly, serum NfL levels also increase with aging, and the interpretation of serum NfL levels in neurological diseases is incomplete due to lack of a reliable model for age-related variation in serum NfL levels in healthy subjects.

Methods

Graph signal processing (GSP) provides analytical tools, such as graph Fourier transform (GFT), to produce measures from functional dynamics of brain activity constrained by white matter anatomy. Here, we leveraged a set of features using GFT that quantified the coupling between blood oxygen level dependent signals and structural connectome to investigate their associations with serum NfL levels collected from healthy subjects and former athletes with history of concussions.

Results

Here we show that GSP feature from isthmus cingulate in the right hemisphere (r-iCg) is strongly linked with serum NfL in healthy controls. In contrast, GSP features from temporal lobe and lingual areas in the left hemisphere and posterior cingulate in the right hemisphere are the most associated with serum NfL in former athletes. Additional analysis reveals that the GSP feature from r-iCg is associated with behavioral and structural measures that predict aggressive behavior in healthy controls and former athletes.

Conclusions

Our results suggest that GSP-derived brain features may be included in models of baseline variance when evaluating NfL as a biomarker of neurological diseases and studying their impact on personality traits.
In situ generation of radical initiators using amine-borane complexes for carbohalogenation of alkenes
Authors: Liautard Virginie , Delgado Marine , Colin Boris , Chabaud Laurent , Michaud Guillaume , Pucheault Mathieu
Published: January 2022

Atom transfer radical addition of alkyl halides to alkenes was developed using a low amount of a stable initiator, amine borane complexes.
Ionic liquids and deep eutectics as a transformative platform for the synthesis of nanomaterials
Authors: Hammond Oliver S. , Mudring Anja-Verena
Published: January 2022

Ionic liquids and their siblings deep eutectic solvents offer a unique combinatorial toolbox enabling deliberate nanosynthesis like no other solvents.
Ammonium vanadate cathode materials with enhanced Zn storage by the optimization of electrolytes
Authors: Luo Chengkang , Xiao Li , Wu Xiang
Published: January 2022

Herein, we synthesize NH4V4O10 assemblies by a facile hydrothermal route. The obtained product is utilized as the cathode for NHVO/Zn batteries, which can be improved by the introduction of trace Li ions into the electrolyte.
In silico design of metal-free hydrophosphate catalysts for hydrogenation of CO2 to formate
Authors: Wang Honglei , Zhao Yanliang , Zhao Huixuan , Yang Junxia , Zhai Dong , Sun Lei , Deng Weiqiao
Published: January 2022

The metal-free catalysts composed of K3−nHnPO4 (n = 0, 1, 2) and B(C6F5−mHm)3 (m = 0, 3, 5) are studied using DFT calculations, where this emerging Lewis pair catalyst is considered as a new class of candidate catalysts for reducing CO2 to formate.
Synergistic effect of the MoO2/CeO2 S-scheme heterojunction on carbon rods for enhanced photocatalytic hydrogen evolution
Authors: Wang Xuanpu , Li Teng , Zhu Pengfei , Jin Zhiliang
Published: January 2022

MoO2 particles were successfully loaded on carbon rods and formed an S-scheme heterojunction with CeO2. The performance of photocatalytic hydrogen evolution is increased with the increase of photoelectron-hole separation efficiency.
A hierarchically porous TiO2@C membrane with oxygen vacancies: a novel platform for enhancing the catalytic conversion of polysulfides
Authors: Qiu Sheng-You , Wang Chuang , Gu Liang-Liang , Wang Ke-Xin , Gao Xiao-Tian , Gao Jian , Jiang Zaixing , Gu Jian , Zhu Xiao-Dong
Published: January 2022

A self-supported TiO2−x@C membrane with superiorities relating to the presence of defects, its structure, and its components achieves efficient polysulfide adsorption and catalytic transformation performance, supporting its use in Li–S batteries.
Highly thermostable white-emitting Ca9ZnK(PO4)7:Ce3+,Dy3+ single-phase phosphor with tunable photoluminescence and energy transfer
Authors: Zheng Youkui , Wang Zizheng , Yang Dan , Fang Zhenyu , Xiang Yuefei , Yang Tongsheng , Yang Shuqing , Mao Yong , Xiong Kai , Zhu Jing
Published: January 2022

A facile Ce3+ → Dy3+ energy transfer strategy was used to obtain a single-phase white-emitting phosphor Ca9ZnK(PO4)7:Ce3+,Dy3+ with highly thermostable behavior.
Near-infrared emitting copper(i) complexes with a pyrazolylpyrimidine ligand: exploring relaxation pathways
Authors: Shekhovtsov Nikita A. , Kokina Tatyana E. , Vinogradova Katerina A. , Panarin Andrey Y. , Rakhmanova Marianna I. , Naumov Dmitry Y. , Pervukhina Natalya V. , Nikolaenkova Elena B. , Krivopalov Viktor P. , Czerwieniec Rafał , Bushuev Mark B.
Published: January 2022

Mononuclear copper(i) complexes demonstrate T1 → S0 phosphorescence in the near-infrared region associated with ligand-to-metal charge transfer. The most effective intersystem crossing channels are S6 → T7, S6 → T8 and S10 → T12.
XPS characterization of vanadium carbide species formed during the atomization process in electrothermal atomic absorption spectroscopy
Authors: Ruiz Frine , Benzo Zully , Garaboto Ángel , Salas Janeth , Brito Joaquín L.
Published: January 2022

Solid-state species deposited on L'vov platforms during ETAAS of vanadium solutions were studied by X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy. The presence of vanadium carbide (VC) during ashing and atomization stages was confirmed.
Stability and electronic properties of gallenene
Authors: Kutana Alex , Altalhi Tariq , Ruan Qiyuan , Zhang Jun-Jie , Penev Evgeni S. , Yakobson Boris I.
Published: January 2022

Two-dimensional metals offer intriguing possibilities to explore the metallic character and other related properties in systems with reduced dimensionality.
Preparation of a nonenzymatic electrochemical sensor based on a g-C3N4/MWO4 (M: Cu, Mn, Co, Ni) composite for the determination of H2O2
Authors: Habibi Mohammad Mehdi , Mousavi Mitra , Shadman Zahra , Ghasemi Jahan B.
Published: January 2022

The GCE was modified with g-C3N4/MWO4 to obtain g-C3N4/MWO4/GCE and applied in H2O2 detection. Under optimized conditions, g-C3N4/CuWO4/GCE displayed superior sensing features, wide linear range, low detection limit, high sensitivity and selectivity.
Hybrid monometallic and bimetallic copper–palladium zeolite catalysts for direct synthesis of dimethyl ether from CO2
Authors: Navarro-Jaén Sara , Virginie Mirella , Morin Jean-Charles , Thuriot-Roukos Joëlle , Wojcieszak Robert , Khodakov Andrei Y.
Published: January 2022

Low palladium content in the hybrid bimetallic copper-palladium zeolite catalysts is beneficial for the dimethyl ether production from CO2.
Synthesis and characterization of CdTe QDs capped with a branched 3MB3MP ligand and fluorescent switching detection of H2O2
Authors: Choudhary Yogesh S. , Nageswaran Gomathi
Published: January 2022

Label free turn-on detection of H2O2 using water-soluble CdTe quantum dots modified with a novel multifunctional branched ligand.
Cu(ii)-based DNA labeling identifies the structural link between transcriptional activation and termination in a metalloregulator
Authors: Casto Joshua , Mandato Alysia , Hofmann Lukas , Yakobov Idan , Ghosh Shreya , Ruthstein Sharon , Saxena Sunil
Published: January 2022

Herein, we exploit site-directed Cu(ii)-labeling to measure the DNA conformations in each step of the transcription cycle of the Copper Efflux Regulator (CueR), in order to establish how transcription is activated and terminated.
Matrix effects on the performance and mechanism of Hg removal from groundwater by MoS2 nanosheets
Authors: Wang Mengxia , Han Qi , Shu Yufei , Wang Kunkun , Wang Li , Liu Bei , Zucker Ines , Wang Zhongying
Published: January 2022

Matrix effects of groundwater have profound implications on the removal mechanism and efficiency of Hg by two-dimensional MoS2 nanosheets.
Improving state estimation accuracy in active distribution networks by coordinating real‐time and pseudo‐measurements considering load uncertainty
Authors: Ajoudani Mojtaba , Shiekholeslami Abdolreza , Zakariazadeh Alireza
Published: January 2022

Measurements at the level of active distribution networks can be classified into three major groups. Data collection and transmission involve the time interval of several seconds for the first category, several minutes to 24 h for the second category, and finally, several weeks to several months for the third category. Considering this three‐level classification of the measurements, state estimation by these data should deal with three kinds of heterogeneous data, but it has undesirable effects on the state estimation process, such as lower accuracy of the results. Despite the existence of heterogeneous data and different time rates, this study presents a state estimation model for updating measurement devices in each of the categories, aiming at establishing coordination among the measured data and increasing the accuracy of the estimation. The opportunities and limitations of the proposed model are compared to those of the conventional models. To illustrate the effectiveness of the proposed method, two IEEE standard systems 34‐bus and 123‐bus, have been used. The experimental network includes various load patterns, as well as distributed generation sources whose uncertainty is considered in the proposed model.
Spectropolarimetric observations of the solar atmosphere in the Hα6563 Å line
Authors: Jaume Bestard J. , Trujillo Bueno J. , Bianda M. , Štěpán J. , Ramelli R.
Published: January 2022

We present novel spectropolarimetric observations of the hydrogen Hαline taken with the Zürich Imaging Polarimeter (ZIMPOL) at the Gregory Coudé Telescope of the Istituto Ricerche Solari Locarno (IRSOL). The linear polarization is clearly dominated by the scattering of anisotropic radiation and the Hanle effect, while the circular polarization is dominated by the Zeeman effect. The observed linear polarization signals show a rich spatial variability, the interpretation of which would open a new window for probing the solar chromosphere. We study their spatial variation within coronal holes, finding a different behaviour for theU/Isignals near the north and south solar poles. We identify some spatial patterns, which may facilitate the interpretation of the observations. In close-to-the-limb regions with sizable circular polarization signals, we find similar asymmetricQ/Iprofiles. We also show examples of net circular polarization profiles (NCP), along with the corresponding linear polarization signals. The application of the weak field approximation to the observed circular polarization signals gives 10 G (40–60 G) close to the limb quiet (plage) regions for the average longitudinal field strength over the spatio-temporal resolution element.
Short-timescale X-ray spectral variability in the Seyfert 1 galaxy NGC 3783
Authors: Costanzo D. , Dadina M. , Vignali C. , De Marco B. , Cappi M. , Petrucci P. O. , Bianchi S. , Kriss G. A. , Kaastra J. S. , Mehdipour M. , Behar E. , Matzeu G. A.
Published: January 2022

Aims. We report on the X-ray time-resolved spectral analysis of XMM-Newton observations of NGC 3783. Our main goal is to detect transient features in the Fe K line complex in order to study the dynamics of the innermost accretion flow.

Methods. We reanalyse archival observations of NGC 3783, a bright local active galactic nucleus, for which a transient Fe line was reported, complementing this data set with new available observations. This results in a long set of observations which can allow us to better assess the significance of transient features and possibly test their recurrence time. Moreover, as the new data catch the source in an obscured state, this analysis allows also to test whether the appearance and disappearance of transient features is linked to the presence of obscuring gas.

Results. We detect discrete features at the ≥90% significance level both in emission and in absorption at different times of the observations, split into 5 ks time-resolved spectra. The overall significance of individual features is higher in the obscured dataset. The energy distribution of the detections changes between the two states of the source, and the features appear to cluster at different energies. Counting the occurrences of emission and absorption lines at the same energies, we identify several groups of ≥3σ detections: emission features in the 4–6 keV band are present in all observations and are most likely due to effects of the absorber present in the source; an emission line blend of neutral Fe Kβ and ionised Fe Kα is present in the unobscured dataset; absorption lines produced by gas at different outflowing velocities and ionisation states show an increase in energy between the two epochs, shifting from ∼6.6 keV to ∼6.7 − 6.9 keV. The representation of the features in a time–energy plane via residual maps highlights a possible modulation of the Fe Kα line intensity linked to the clumpiness of the absorbing medium.
Oil Shale of Rif region: natural adsorbents for environmental cleaning
Authors: El Hammari Larbi , Latifi Souhayla , Gouza Asmae , Boukra Omar , Saoiabi Sanaa , Saoiabi Ahmed
Published: January 2022

Oils shales are the largest energy resource in the world and are widely used in the development of industrial fuel and petroleum activities. Oil shale is one of the important mineral resources in Morocco and it has a large reserve, the most important of which is of Timahdit, Tarfaya, and Tangier. Nowadays, the increasing concentration of toxic organic species (Antibiotics, Colorants) in soils and domestic, agricultural, and industrial wastewater has become a major environmental concern. for this reason, we have focused on the interactions of raw oil shale deposits with toxic organic species as part of an additional valuation of national energy resources. Our work is focused on the contribution of organic matter on antibiotic retention, as well as the role of hydrophobic interactions on the molecules-mineral surfaces. The results of the characterizations show the possible contribution of raw oil shales in the accumulation of organic pollutants in soil and water. Thermally treated oil shell powders can be good mineral sorbents for environmental cleaning.
Numerical solution by meshless method of a fully-coupled bed load and shallow water flows
Authors: Marwane Bensaad , Elmiloud Chaabelasri
Published: January 2022

The one-dimensional shallow water equations (SWEs), coupled with bed load (Exner equation) were solved in this paper for the numerical simulation of the sediment transport problem. By using an efficient meshless method based on radial basis function (RBF) that approximates the unknown variables on a set of collocation nodes and Runge–Kutta fourth-order scheme to approximate the temporal derivative. Besides, the artificial viscosity to avoid oscillations, we implement the proposed numerical model of bedload and set up a series of numerical tests using various nontrivial solutions to confirm the efficiency of the suggested approaches. The numerical simulations demonstrate the accuracy, computational efficiency, and ability of the suggested numerical methods in solving the coupled Exner shallow water problem.
The study of electronic and optical properties of perovskites CH3NH3PbCl3 and CH3NH3PbBr3 using first-principle
Authors: Moulaoui Lhouceine , Bajjou Omar , Najim Abdelhafid , Rahmani Khalid
Published: January 2022

At present, Organic-inorganic hybrid methylammonium lead halide perovskites MAPbX3 (MA= CH3NH3; X = Cl, Br) have recently attract attention scientific researchers, as a promising candidate for photovoltaic and optoelectronic devices. We have studied the electronic structures and optical properties of perovskites CH3NH3PbBr3 and CH3NH3PbCl3, using density functional theory (DFT). These physical properties are calculated by CASTEP code, such as the band structures, total density of states (TDOS), absorption coefficient, refractive index and optical conductivity. The analysis of band gap shows that these two perovskites are semiconducting materials. Calculated absorption coefficient of CH3NH3PbBr3 and CH3NH3PbCl3 shows an absorption peak around 3.87 eV and 2.04 eV, respectively. The above results provide good agreement with experimental work for optoelectronic properties of CH3NH3PbBr3 and CH3NH3PbCl3 materials.
Comparison of thermal comfort in a traditional and intelligent building
Authors: Krawczyk Natalia
Published: January 2022

The article presents a comparison of thermal comfort in two educational buildings of the Kielce University of Technology, a traditional building and an intelligent building Energis (using solar energy to generate electricity for heating water and lighting the building). The results obtained from the questionnaires allowed the calculation of the Thermal Sensation Vote (TSV) and comparison with the Fanger model. The analysis consisted in comparing the thermal and air humidity ratings in both buildings. Graphs on thermal assessment, air humidity and thermal preferences were drawn up. On the basis of the obtained results, it can be concluded that the vast majority of the respondents did not feel well in the rooms they studied. The results obtained from the research may be useful for building managers to apply the appropriate thermal conditions.
Machine learning for predictive maintenance of photovoltaic panels: cleaning process application
Authors: Nabti Mohamed , Bybi Abdelmajid , Chater El Ayachi , Garoum Mohammed
Published: January 2022

It is well known that the presence of dust on the surface of PV modules has a significant impact on their efficiency. Then, the consequent reduction in energy production has a non-negligible effect on the incomes. Although there is a growing need for accurate data showing where the solar arrays need maintenance in this rush for renewable energy. The purpose of this article is to introduce the research on existing photovoltaic panel maintenance solutions and introduce a new machine learning algorithm application to minimize the cleaning process of photovoltaic modules.
Contribution to the Control of the Power Switches of DC-DC Converters with two stages of a Photovoltaic System
Authors: Yaden Mohammed Faysal , Baghaz El Hadi , Melhaoui Mustapha , Hirech Kamal
Published: January 2022

The work presented in this article proposes the design and the realization of a PWM controller, which allows the control of the power switches of DC-DC converters of discrete two-stage photovoltaic systems in series. The method employed is based on the use of two drivers by exploiting their functionalities in order to improve and control the two power switches of the discretized photovoltaic system. The proposed technique is validated by experimentation on a photovoltaic system, the upper stage of which can request a floating voltage on the MOSFET drain of up to 30V. the studied PV installation is equipped by a protection circuit block for protect the PV equipments in the event of poor connection or deterioration of elements in system blocks. The simulations and the experiments showed a good functioning of the control unit which ensured: An amplitude of the PWM signals large enough to control the power switches, optimal system operation regardless of load and weather changes and good efficiency, and protection of the installation in the event of malfunction.
Assessment of the relative impacts of climate changes and anthropogenic forcing on Ouergha watershed hydrology (North-East of Morocco)
Authors: Erraioui Lamia , Mafhoum Nouhaila , Taia Soufiane , Chao Jamal , El Mansouri Bouabid , Haida Souad , Taj-Eddine Kamal
Published: January 2022

Understanding the spatiotemporal distribution of past and future climate change impact is essential for effective water resource management. This study aims to reveal the impact of temperature and precipitation change on hydrological streamflow of Ouergha watershed and on the inflow regime of Al Wahda dam. Initially, historical climate trend was assessed using Mann Kendall tests and Sen’s slope. Then, regional Climate Models (Cordex-Africa) were used to project future precipitation and temperature data under two emission scenarios (RCP4.5 as realistic and RCP8.5 as pessimistic). After correcting the biases in climatic variables using three different methods, the calibrated and validated SWAT model was forced to project the hydrological simulations under both scenarios. The study shows a clear decreasing in precipitation and augmentation in annual mean temperature over the past decades. In addition, projected climate variables expected severe change in future precipitation (decreasing) and mean temperature (Increasing). The impact of this climatic alteration is expected to extremely affect rivers discharge and reservoir inflows in both magnitude and timing.
Effects of the terminal donor unit on the photovoltaic parameters of benzocarbazole-based dyes for DSSCs: DFT/TD-DFT investigations
Authors: Etabti Hanane , Fitri Asmae , Touimi Benjelloun Adil , Benzakour Mohammed , Mcharfi Mohammed
Published: January 2022

In this paper, a computational study on five organic p-conjugated molecules based benzocarbazole (BC) is reported. These new dyes were characterize theoretically by density functional theory (DFT) and time-dependent (TD-DFT) approaches. Different electron side groups were introduced as a terminal donor to investigate their effects on the electronic structure; the HOMO, LUMO, free energy of electron injection (∆Ginject), free energy regeneration (∆Greg), open circuit voltage (Voc), the gap energy and UV–visible absorption spectra analysis of these dyes have been reported and discussed. The calculated results show that dye M3 with phenoxazine as a terminal donor groups can be used as a potential donor of electron in DSSCs, due to its best electronic and optical properties and good photovoltaic.