bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Engineering 3D Printed Structures Towards Electrochemically Driven Green Ammonia Synthesis: A Perspective
Authors: Padinjareveetil Akshay Kumar K. , Perales‐Rondon Juan V. , Pumera Martin
Published: May 2023

Broadening scope of 3D printing technology is recently identified as a potential strategy to mitigate concerns in the light of rising energy crisis and environmental imbalances. The importance of ammonia as a hydrogen carrier is well known and, in the context of 3D printing, designing and fabrication of electrode substrates for ammonia synthesis from nitrate sources will present a twofold advantage toward addressing the energy crisis and also limiting the harmful effect of excessive nitrate from the environment. Studies in the direction of employing 3D printed catalysts or reactors for ammonia production have been rarely reported. Thus, in this perspective article, the possibilities of engineering several 3D printed electrocatalysts for nitrate reduction to ammonia via various techniques are discussed and experimental demonstrations to substantiate the potential of 3D printed electrocatalysts toward ammonia production are provided, for the first time. In addition, postfabrication treatments, modification, and patterned coating of 3D printed substrates using active materials are also discussed along with the possibilities of fabricating catalysts for ammonia synthesis via nitrogen reduction reaction. Certain limitations and possible solutions of this printing technology for ammonia production are discussed along with the future outlook. Such timely discussions will be interesting for researchers and scientists for enhancing further possibilities toward broadening this field and toward other catalytic applications.
An Intelligent, User‐Inclusive Pipeline for Organic Semiconductor Design
Authors: Packwood Daniel M. , Kaneko Yu , Ikeda Daiji , Ohno Mitsuru
Published: May 2023

Data‐guided methodologies for designing new materials are developing apace, yet advances for organic crystals have been infrequent. For the case of organic crystals, data‐guided design platforms involve two problems: the need to construct regression models that can predict solid‐state properties from molecular structures alone and the vast number of molecular structures that satisfy a targeted solid‐state property. In this paper, a new pipeline is presented for designing molecules with targeted solid‐state electronic properties. Here, the first problem is overcome by means of a novel visualization method for band structure data, which allows the user to specify their design preferences and simplify the creation of the required regression models. The second problem is overcome by allowing for user intervention in the selection of the final molecule for subsequent synthesis. The effectiveness of this pipeline is demonstrated by using it to design a simple new molecule with a targeted bandgap and impressive band dispersion. This pipeline is the first data‐guided method that can design new molecules on the basis of genuine solid‐state electronic properties, and with its emphasis on user‐inclusivity, it can easily be applied in collaborative or industry settings.
Molecular Dipoles as a Surface Flattening and Interface Stabilizing Agent for Lithium‐Metal Batteries
Authors: Jun Seo‐Young , Shin Kihyun , Lee Jun‐Seo , Kim Suji , Chun Jinyoung , Ryu Won‐Hee
Published: May 2023

Reaching the border of the capable energy limit in existing battery technology has turned research attention away from the rebirth of unstable Li‐metal anode chemistry in order to achieve exceptional performance. Strict regulation of the dendritic Li surface reaction, which results in a short circuit and safety issues, should be achieved to realize Li‐metal batteries. Herein, this study reports a surface‐flattening and interface product stabilizing agent employing methyl pyrrolidone (MP) molecular dipoles in the electrolyte for cyclable Li‐metal batteries. The excellent stability of the Li‐metal electrode over 600 cycles at a high current density of 5 mA cm−2 has been demonstrated using an optimal concentration of the MP additive. This study has identified the flattening surface reconstruction and crystal rearrangement behavior along the stable (110) plane assisted by the MP molecular dipoles. The stabilization of the Li‐metal anodes using molecular dipole agents has helped develop next‐generation energy storage devices using Li‐metal anodes, such as Li–air, Li–S, and semi‐solid‐state batteries.
Synthesis of Triazatriphenylene Derivative Through Multi‐Component Reaction of Aryl‐amine, Aldehyde, and Alkyne
Authors: Yamamoto Sachie , Ishida Naruki , Yasuda Takeshi , Kanbara Takaki , Kuwabara Junpei
Published: May 2023

The Povarov reaction is a representative multicomponent reaction used for synthesizing nitrogen‐containing aromatic compounds from aromatic amines, aldehydes, and dienophiles, such as electron‐rich alkenes and alkynes. In this study, we investigated a triple Povarov reaction of 1,3,5‐triaminobenzne with aromatic aldehydes and phenylacetylene to obtain triazatriphenylene derivatives. Reactions with arylaldehydes containing electron‐donating groups proceeded smoothly to provide triazatriphenylene derivatives. In contrast, reactions with arylaldehydes containing electron‐withdrawing groups resulted in low yields. Reactions with electron‐rich arylaldehydes are probably more favorable in terms of high stability of imine intermediates and smooth electrophilic cyclization. Single‐crystal X‐ray structure analysis revealed that the aryl groups derived from the aldehydes had small dihedral angles between with the triazatriphenylene core. The derivative with tertiary butyl groups (tBu‐TaT) had a high glass transition temperature, while that without tertiary butyl groups (H‐TaT) had a lower highest occupied molecular orbital (HOMO) and lowest unoccupied molecular orbital (LUMO) level and served as an efficient hole‐blocking material with better electron transport properties than those of tBu‐TaT. This study provides insights into the scope and limitations of the multicomponent reactions based on the Povarov reaction, substituent dependence on the crystal structures, and physical properties of π‐extended nitrogen‐containing aromatic compounds.
Synthesis and Resolution of an Axially Chiral Spirocyclic Quaternary Ammonium Ion‐Based Phase‐Transfer Catalyst
Authors: Li Shen , Zhou Hui , List Benjamin
Published: May 2023

We report the synthesis of a novel spirocyclic quaternary ammonium salt that possesses axial chirality. Enantiopure material was obtained by fractional crystallization of the corresponding (R,R)‐tartrate salt. Application of this chiral quaternary ammonium salt in phase‐transfer catalytic asymmetric alkylation of glycinate Schiff base was examined.
Large‐scale proteome and metabolome analysis of CSF implicates altered glucose and carbon metabolism and succinylcarnitine in Alzheimer's disease
Authors: Panyard Daniel J. , McKetney Justin , Deming Yuetiva K. , Morrow Autumn R. , Ennis Gilda E. , Jonaitis Erin M. , Van Hulle Carol A. , Yang Chengran , Sung Yun Ju , Ali Muhammad , Kollmorgen Gwendlyn , Suridjan Ivonne , Bayfield Anna , Bendlin Barbara B. , Zetterberg Henrik , Blennow Kaj , Cruchaga Carlos , Carlsson Cynthia M. , Johnson Sterling C. , Asthana Sanjay , Coon Joshua J. , Engelman Corinne D.
Published: May 2023

INTRODUCTION

A hallmark of Alzheimer's disease (AD) is the aggregation of proteins (amyloid beta [A] and hyperphosphorylated tau [T]) in the brain, making cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) proteins of particular interest.

METHODS

We conducted a CSF proteome‐wide analysis among participants of varying AT pathology (n = 137 participants; 915 proteins) with nine CSF biomarkers of neurodegeneration and neuroinflammation.

RESULTS

We identified 61 proteins significantly associated with the AT category (P < 5.46 × 10−5) and 636 significant protein‐biomarker associations (P < 6.07 × 10−6). Proteins from glucose and carbon metabolism pathways were enriched among amyloid‐ and tau‐associated proteins, including malate dehydrogenase and aldolase A, whose associations with tau were replicated in an independent cohort (n = 717). CSF metabolomics identified and replicated an association of succinylcarnitine with phosphorylated tau and other biomarkers.

DISCUSSION

These results implicate glucose and carbon metabolic dysregulation and increased CSF succinylcarnitine levels with amyloid and tau pathology in AD.

Highlights

Cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) proteome enriched for extracellular, neuronal, immune, and protein processing.

Glucose/carbon metabolic pathways enriched among amyloid/tau‐associated proteins.

Key glucose/carbon metabolism protein associations independently replicated.

CSF proteome outperformed other omics data in predicting amyloid/tau positivity.

CSF metabolomics identified and replicated a succinylcarnitine–phosphorylated tau association.
Subjective cognitive decline across ethnoracial groups in the A4 study
Authors: Robinson Talia , Klinger Hannah , Buckley Rachel , Deters Kacie D. , Quiroz Yakeel T. , Rentz Dorene , Rabin Jennifer S. , Sperling Reisa A. , Amariglio Rebecca E.
Published: May 2023

INTRODUCTION

The associations between subjective cognitive decline (SCD), cognition, and amyloid were explored across diverse participants in the A4 study.

METHODS

Five thousand one hundred and fifty‐one non‐Hispanic White, 262 non‐Hispanic Black, 179 Hispanic‐White, and 225 Asian participants completed the Preclinical Alzheimer Cognitive Composite (PACC), self‐ and study partner‐reported Cognitive Function Index (CFI). A subsample underwent amyloid positron emission tomography (18F‐florbetapir) (N = 4384). We examined self‐reported CFI, PACC, amyloid, and study partner‐reported CFI by ethnoracial group.

RESULTS

The associations between PACC‐CFI and amyloid‐CFI were moderated by race. The relationships were weaker or non‐significant in non‐Hispanic Black and Hispanic White groups. Depression and anxiety scores were stronger predictors of CFI in these groups. Despite group differences in the types of study partners, self‐ and study partner‐CFI were congruent across groups.

DISCUSSION

SCD may not uniformly relate to cognition or AD biomarkers in different ethnoracial groups. Nonetheless, self‐ and study partner‐SCD were congruent despite differences in study partner type.

Highlights

Association between SCD and objective cognition was moderated by ethnoracial group.

Association between SCD and amyloid was moderated by ethnoracial group.

Depression and anxiety were stronger predictors of SCD in Black and Hispanic groups.

Study‐partner and self‐reported SCD are congruent across groups.

Study‐partner report was consistent despite difference in study partner types.
Insights into Electrochemical CO2 Reduction on SnS2: Main Product Switch from Hydrogen to Formate by Pulsed Potential Electrolysis
Authors: Woldu Abebe R. , Talebi Pooya , Yohannes Asfaw G. , Xu Jianyin , Wu Xu‐Dong , Siahrostami Samira , Hu Liangsheng , Huang Xiao‐Chun
Published: May 2023

Tin disulfide (SnS2) is a promising candidate for electrosynthesis of CO2‐to‐formate while the low activity and selectivity remain a great challenge. Herein, we report the potentiostatic and pulsed potential CO2RR performance of SnS2 nanosheets (NSs) with tunable S‐vacancy and exposure of Sn‐atoms or S‐atoms prepared controllably by calcination of SnS2 at different temperatures under the H2/Ar atmosphere. The catalytic activity of S‐vacancy SnS2 (Vs‐SnS2) is improved 1.8 times, but it exhibits an exclusive hydrogen evolution with about 100 % FE under all potentials investigated in the static conditions. The theoretical calculations reveal that the adsorption of *H on the Vs‐SnS2 surface is energetically more favorable than the carbonaceous intermediates, resulting in active site coverage that hinders the carbon intermediates from being adsorbed. Fortunately, the main product can be switched from hydrogen to formate by applying pulsed potential electrolysis benefiting from in situ formed partially oxidized SnS2−x with the oxide phase selective to formate and the S‐vacancy to hydrogen. This work highlights not only the Vs‐SnS2 NSs lead to exclusively H2 formation, but also provides insights into the systematic design of highly selective CO2 reduction catalysts reconstructed by pulsed potential electrolysis.
Phase Transition Engineering of Host Perovskite toward Optimal Exsolution‐facilitated Catalysts for Carbon Dioxide Electrolysis
Authors: Zhang Bo‐Wen , Zhu Meng‐Nan , Gao Min‐Rui , Chen Jian , Xi Xiuan , Shen Jing , Feng Ren‐Fei , Semagina Natalia , Duan Nanqi , Zeng Hongbo , Luo Jing‐Li
Published: May 2023

The in situ exsolution technique of nanoparticles has brought new opportunities for the utilization of perovskite‐based catalysts in solid oxide cells. However, the lack of control over the structural evolution of host perovskites during the promotion of exsolution has restricted the architectural exploitation of exsolution‐facilitated perovskites. In this study, we strategically broke the long‐standing trade‐off phenomenon between promoted exsolution and suppressed phase transition via B‐site supplement, thus broadening the scope of exsolution‐facilitated perovskite materials. Using carbon dioxide electrolysis as an illustrative case study, we demonstrate that the catalytic activity and stability of perovskites with exsolved nanoparticles (P‐eNs) can be selectively enhanced by regulating the explicit phase of host perovskites, accentuating the critical role of the architectures of perovskite scaffold in catalytic reactions occurring on P‐eNs. The concept demonstrated could potentially pave the way for designing the advanced exsolution‐facilitated P‐eNs materials and unveiling a wide range of catalytic chemistry taking place on P‐eNs.
Dimerization of a Reactive Azaacene Diradical: Synthesis of a Covalent Azaacene Cage
Authors: Fuchs Kathleen , Medina Rivero Samara , Weidlich Anna , Rominger Frank , Israel Noel , Popov Alexey A. , Dreuw Andreas , Freudenberg Jan , Casado Juan , Bunz Uwe H. F.
Published: May 2023

Two series of regioisomeric dicyanomethylene substituted dithienodiazatetracenes with formal para‐ or ortho‐quinodimethane subunits were synthesized and characterized. Whereas the para‐isomers (p‐n, diradical index y0=0.01) are stable and isolable, the ortho‐isomer (y0=0.98) dimerizes into a covalent azaacene cage. Four elongated σ‐CC bonds are formed and the former triisopropylsilyl(TIPS) ‐ethynylene groups transformed into cumulene units. The azaacene cage dimer (o‐1)2 was characterized by X‐ray single crystal structure analysis and temperature‐dependent infrared (IR), electron paramagnetic resonance (EPR, solid‐state), nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR) and ultraviolet‐visible (UV/Vis) spectroscopies (solution) indicating reformation of o‐1.
Reversible Electrodeposition of Potassium‐bridged Molecular Vanadium Oxides: A New Approach Towards Multi‐Electron Storage
Authors: Arya Nikhil , Philipp Tom , Greiner Simon , Steiner Michael , Kranz Christine , Anjass Montaha
Published: May 2023

Molecular metal oxides, so‐called polyoxometalates (POMs), have shown outstanding performance as catalysts and lately attracted interest as materials in energy conversion and storage systems due to their capability of storing and exchanging multiple electrons. Here, we report the first example of redox‐driven reversible electrodeposition of molecular vanadium oxide clusters, leading to the formation of thin films. The detailed investigation of the deposition mechanism reveals that the reversibility is dependent on the reduction potential. Correlating electrochemical quartz microbalance studies with X‐ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS) data gave insight into the redox chemistry and oxidation states of vanadium in the deposited films in dependence on the potential window. A multi‐electron reduction of the polyoxovanadate cluster, which facilitates the potassium (K+) cation‐assisted reversible formation of potassium vanadium oxide thin films was confirmed. At anodic potentials, re‐oxidation of the polyoxovanadate and complete stripping of the thin film is observed for films deposited at potentials more positive than −500 mV vs. Ag/Ag+, while electrodeposition at more negative cathodic potential reduces the electrochemical reversibility of the process and increases the stripping overpotential. As proof of principle, we demonstrate the electrochemical performance of the deposited films for potential use in potassium‐ion batteries.
Alteration of Gut Microbiota in Individuals at High‐Risk for Rheumatoid Arthritis Associated With Disturbed Metabolome and the Initiation of Arthritis Through the Triggering of Mucosal Immunity Imbalance
Authors: Luo Yubin , Tong Yanli , Wu Liang , Niu Haitao , Li Yanhong , Su Lin Chong , Wu Yuxi , Bozec Aline , Zaiss Mario M. , Qing Pingying , Zhao Hua , Tan Chunyu , Zhang Qiuping , Zhao Yi , Tang Huairong , Liu Yi
Published: May 2023

Objective

In this study, we aimed to decipher the gut microbiome (GM) and serum metabolic characteristic of individuals at high risk for rheumatoid arthritis (RA) and to investigate the causative effect of GM on the mucosal immune system and its involvement in the pathogenesis of arthritis.

Methods

Fecal samples were collected from 38 healthy individuals and 53 high‐risk RA individuals with anti–citrullinated protein antibody (ACPA) positivity (Pre‐RA), 12 of 53 Pre‐RA individuals developed RA within 5 years of follow‐up. The differences in intestinal microbial composition between the healthy controls and Pre‐RA individuals or among Pre‐RA subgroups were identified by 16S ribosomal RNA sequencing. The serum metabolite profile and its correlation with GM were also explored. Moreover, antibiotic‐pretreated mice that received GM from the healthy control or Pre‐RA groups were then evaluated for intestinal permeability, inflammatory cytokines, and immune cell populations. Collagen‐induced arthritis (CIA) was also applied to test the effect of fecal microbiota transplantation (FMT) from Pre‐RA individuals on arthritis severity in mice.

Results

Stool microbial diversity was lower in Pre‐RA individuals than in healthy controls. The bacterial community structure and function significantly differed between healthy controls and Pre‐RA individuals. Although there were differences to some extent in the bacterial abundance among the Pre‐RA subgroups, no robust functional differences were observed. The metabolites in the serum of the Pre‐RA group were dramatically different from those in the healthy controls group, with KEGG pathway enrichment of amino acid and lipid metabolism. Moreover, intestinal bacteria from the Pre‐RA group increased intestinal permeability in FMT mice and zonula occludens‐1 expression in the small intestine and Caco‐2 cells. Moreover, Th17 cells in the mesenteric lymph nodes and Peyer's patches were also increased in mice receiving Pre‐RA feces compared to healthy controls. The changes in intestinal permeability and Th17‐cell activation prior to arthritis induction enhanced CIA severity in PreRA‐FMT mice compared with HC‐FMT mice.

Conclusion

Gut microbial dysbiosis and metabolome alterations already occur in individuals at high risk for RA. FMT from preclinical individuals triggers intestinal barrier dysfunction and changes mucosal immunity, further contributing to the development of arthritis.
Torpor‐responsive microRNAs in the heart of the Monito del monte, Dromiciops gliroides
Authors: Breedon Sarah A. , Varma Anchal , Quintero‐Galvis Julian F. , Gaitán‐Espitia Juan Diego , Mejías Carlos , Nespolo Roberto F. , Storey Kenneth B.
Published: May 2023

The marsupial Monito del monte (Dromiciops gliroides) utilizes both daily and seasonal bouts of torpor to preserve energy and prolong survival during periods of cold and unpredictable food availability. Torpor involves changes in cellular metabolism, including specific changes to gene expression that is coordinated in part, by the posttranscriptional gene silencing activity of microRNAs (miRNA). Previously, differential miRNA expression has been identified in D. gliroides liver and skeletal muscle; however, miRNAs in the heart of Monito del monte remained unstudied. In this study, the expression of 82 miRNAs was assessed in the hearts of active and torpid D. gliroides, finding that 14 were significantly differentially expressed during torpor. These 14 miRNAs were then used in bioinformatic analyses to identify Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes (KEGG) pathways that were predicted to be most affected by these differentially expressed miRNAs. Overexpressed miRNAs were predicted to primarily regulate glycosaminoglycan biosynthesis, along with various signaling pathways such as Phosphoinositide‐3‐kinase/protein kinase B and transforming growth factor‐β. Similarly, signaling pathways including phosphatidylinositol and Hippo were predicted to be regulated by the underexpression of miRNAs during torpor. Together, these results suggest potential molecular adaptations that protect against irreversible tissue damage and enable continued cardiac and vascular function despite hypothermia and limited organ perfusion during torpor.
Serial virus filtration: A case study evaluating the product‐dependent impact of control strategies on process efficiency
Authors: Kozaili Julie , Shah Aesha , Robbins Donna , Brinkman Nathan , Burdick Michael , Strauss Daniel
Published: May 2023

The production of biopharmaceutical products carries an inherent risk of contamination by adventitious viruses. Historically, these manufacturing processes have incorporated a dedicated virus filtration step to ensure product safety. However, challenging process conditions can lead to passage of small viruses to the permeate pool and an overall decrease in the desired virus logarithmic reduction value (LRV) for the process. The implementation of serial virus filtration has improved the robustness of such processes, albeit concerns about increased operating times and process complexity have limited its implementation. This work focused on optimizing a serial filtration process and identifying process control strategies to provide maximum efficiency while ensuring proper controls for process complexity. Constant TMP was identified as the optimal control strategy, which combined with the optimal filter ratio, resulted in a robust and faster virus filtration process. To demonstrate this hypothesis, data with two filters connected in series (1:1 filter ratio) are presented for a representative non‐fouling molecule. Similarly, for a fouling product, the optimal setup was a combination of a filter connected in series to two filters operated in parallel (2:1 filter ratio). The optimized filter ratios bring cost‐ and time‐savings benefits to the virus filtration step, thereby offering improved productivity. The results of risk and cost analyses performed as part of this study combined with the control strategy, offer companies a toolbox of strategies to accommodate products with different filterability profiles in their downstream processes. This work demonstrates that the safety advantages of performing filters in series can be achieved with minimal increases in time, cost, and risk.
Medium composition overturns the widely accepted sulfate‐dependent repression of desulfurization phenotype in Rhodococcus qingshengii IGTS8
Authors: Martzoukou Olga , Mamma Diomi , Hatzinikolaou Dimitris G.
Published: May 2023

Microbial desulfurization has been extensively studied as a promising alternative to the widely applied chemical desulfurization process. Sulfur removal from petroleum and its products becomes essential, as the environmental regulations become increasingly stringent. Rhodococcus qingshengii IGTS8 has gained ground as a naturally occurring model biocatalyst, due to its superior specific activity for desulfurization of dibenzothiophene (DBT). Recalcitrant organic sulfur compounds—DBT included—are preferentially removed by selective carbon‐sulfur bond cleavage to avoid a reduction in the calorific value of the fuel. The process, however, still has not reached economically sustainable levels, as certain limitations have been identified. One of those bottlenecks is the repression of catalytic activity caused by ubiquitous sulfur sources such as inorganic sulfate, methionine, or cysteine. Herein, we report an optimized culture medium for wild‐type stain IGTS8 that completely alleviates the sulfate‐mediated repression of biodesulfurization activity without modification of the natural biocatalyst. Medium C not only promotes growth in the presence of several sulfur sources, including DBT, but also enhances biodesulfurization of resting cells grown in the presence of up to 5 mM sulfate. Based on the above, the present work can be considered as a step towards the development of a more viable commercial biodesulfurization process.
Knockdown of miR‐19a suppresses gastrointestinal dysmotility diarrhea after TBI by regulating VIP expression
Authors: An Ying , Hu Sheng , Zhang Yu , Song Zhengji , Li Ruochang , Li Yan , Li Yongli , Ren Wenjun , Wan Ping
Published: May 2023

Background and aims

Traumatic brain injury (TBI) is the main cause of death and can lead to a variety of physiological complications, including gastrointestinal dysfunction. The present study aimed to confirm the miR‐19a‐mediated suppression of diarrhea after TBI through the regulation of VIP expression.

Methods

A rat model of TBI induced by controlled cortical injury was used to observe gastrointestinal morphology by opening the abdomen after TBI. After 72 h of injury, the fecal water content of the rats was measured. The end ileal segments were removed, and HE staining was used to observe the histopathological changes in the intestine. The levels of serum miR‐19a and VIP mRNA were detected by qRT‐PCR. ELISA was performed to detect VIP levels in serum. Immunohistochemistry was used to detect the level of VIP in ileal tissues, and immunofluorescence was used to detect c‐kit expression in ileal tissue. CCK‐8 assay was used to detect the cell viability of interstitial cells of Cajal (ICCs), and TUNEL assay was used to detect apoptosis of ICCs.

Results

miR‐19a and VIP were highly expressed in the serum of TBI rats, and the knockdown of miR‐19a alleviated TBI‐induced diarrhea. In addition, the overexpression of miR‐19a or VIP inhibited the proliferation of ICCs, promoted apoptosis, and suppressed intracellular Ca2+levels, whereas miR‐19a suppression had the opposite effects. A nonselective nitric oxide synthase inhibitor (L‐NA), PKG inhibitors (KT‐5823 and RP‐8CPT‐cGMPS), and a guanylate cyclase inhibitor (ODQ) restored the inhibitory effects of VIP on ICC proliferation, anti‐apoptosis effects, and Ca2+concentrations.

Conclusion

Knockdown of miR‐19a inhibits activation of the VIP–NO–cGMP–PKG pathway through suppression of VIP expression, which in turn inhibits diarrhea after TBI.
DBD plasma‐assisted coating of metal alkoxides on sulfur powder for Li–S batteries
Authors: Shafique Ahmed , Vanhulsel Annick , Rangasamy Vijay S. , Baert Kitty , Hauffman Tom , Adriaensens Peter , Safari Mohammadhosein , Van Bael Marlies K. , Hardy An , Sallard Sébastien
Published: May 2023

Sulfur particles coated by activation of metal alkoxide precursors, aluminum–sulfur (Alu–S) and vanadium–sulfur (Van–S), were produced by dielectric barrier discharge (DBD) plasma technology under low temperature and ambient pressure conditions. We report a safe, solvent‐free, low‐cost, and low‐energy consumption coating process that is compatible for sustainable technology up‐scaling. NMR, XPS, SEM, and XRD characterization methods were used to determine the chemical characteristics and the superior behavior of Li–S cells using metal oxide‐based coated sulfur materials. The chemical composition of the coatings is a mixture of the different elements present in the metal alkoxide precursor. The presence of alumina Al2O3 within the coating was confirmed. Multi‐C rate and long‐term galvanostatic cycling at rate C/10 showed that the rate capability losses and capacity fade could be highly mitigated for the Li–S cells containing the coated sulfur materials in comparison to the references uncoated (raw) sulfur. Electrochemical impedance spectroscopy (EIS) and cyclic voltammetry (CV) confirm the lower charge‐transfer resistance and potential hysteresis in the electrodes containing the coated sulfur particles. Our results show that the electrochemical performance of the Li–S cells based on the different coating materials can be ranked as Alu‐S > Van‐S > Raw sulfur.
The “rebirth” of traditional musical instrument: An interactive installation based on augmented reality and somatosensory technology to empower the exhibition of chimes
Authors: Guo Wenchen , Huang Yiyuan , Chen Zhirui , Zhang Zixun , Sun Guoyu , Zeng Qingxiang , Li Xiao
Published: May 2023

Tangible cultural heritage is rich in historical, artistic and scientific value, but due to its own characteristics and the constraints of museum displays, the key issue facing us today is how to utilize and activate cultural heritage to enhance the experience and learning interest of the audience. Focusing on the Chinese cultural treasure, the chimes, this article innovatively proposes an interaction system based on digital augmented projection and somatosensory technology to empower the aesthetic expression and knowledge dissemination of chimes. On this basis, a series of evaluations were carried out and the results showed that the system effectively provides a satisfying, personalized and fun way for users to interact with chimes and learn the traditional culture, successfully bringing this ancient instrument back to life. Moreover, this article shares in detail the research, design and development process, which provides inspiration and examples for other museums to present their tangible cultural heritage through mixed reality and interactive technology.
Advances in Metal Oxide‐based Nanocatalysts for Biodiesel Production: A Review
Authors: Joshi Naveen Chandra , Gururani Prateek , Bhatnagar Pooja , Kumar Vinod , Vlaskin Mikhail S
Published: May 2023

The demand for renewable fuels has risen as a result of increasing human population, urbanization, industrialization, and transport systems. Biodiesel production using metal oxide‐based heterogeneous catalysts is an efficient, sustainable, and environmentally friendly approach. Because of their recovery, reusability, and consistency, heterogeneous catalysts may be preferable to homogeneous catalysts. Since the last few decades, the metal oxides of alkali earth and transition metals and their composite materials have been used as nanocatalysts in the production of biodiesel fuel. Utilization of inorganic metal oxide nanoparticles (MONPs) and their composite materials in producing biodiesel has gained increased attention because of their advanced physical and chemical characteristics. In this review, the applicability of metal oxides and their nanocomposite‐based catalysts in biodiesel production, transesterification reactions with nanocatalytic systems, and the important parameters that affect these reactions are discussed.
Micrometre‐Sized Porous Polymer Beads as Heterogeneous Molecular Catalysts
Authors: Stammler Michael B. , Bauer Anton , Alkhurisi Mohammed H. , Gigl Ferdinand , Wisser Florian M.
Published: May 2023

Porous polymers have great potential as versatile, chemically stable catalyst supports. Yet, shaping of the resulting powders remains a challenge. Here, we demonstrate the use of suspension polymerisation to design micrometre‐sized porous polymers beads containing metal binding sites. The good accessibility of the binding sites ensures high catalytic activity, which is demonstrated for two model reactions: photochemical CO2 reduction and transfer hydrogenation of aromatic ketones. Importantly, the shaping of the host material does not affect the catalytic activity of the active site.
Switched inductor‐capacitor‐based quasi‐Z source converter for renewable energy source integration
Authors: Gopinathan Sija , Rao Vemparala Seshagiri , Sundaramurthy Kumaravel
Published: May 2023

In applications involving renewable energy sources such as solar PV and fuel cells, the high‐gain DC–DC converter must have the following desirable characteristics: high voltage gain, continuous input current with low ripple content, common ground structure, reduced voltage stress on the components, and high efficiency. In addition, the requirement of a lower duty ratio to produce a higher voltage gain aids in reducing the converter's inductor core saturation issue. In this research, a converter employing switched capacitor–inductor cells and a quasi‐Z source network with the aforementioned features is proposed. The steady‐state analysis in both CCM and DCM is presented. The performance of the converter including the parasitic effect of converter components is analyzed. This paper also includes a comprehensive comparative analysis highlighting the benefits of the proposed converter. A small signal model and the output‐to‐control transfer function are derived. The analytical performance of the proposed converter is validated using a hardware prototype of 500 W, 50 kHz. A compensator is designed to improve the dynamic closed‐loop performance and validated experimentally. The experimental findings for boosting 48 V input to 650 V output are provided. The results prove that the proposed converter has the advantages of high gain with a lower duty ratio, low voltage stress on components, continuous input current with low ripple content, and a common ground structure.
Machine learning‐based regression models for predicting signal quality of dense wavelength division multiplexing (DWDM) optical communication network
Authors: Masih Asbah , Kaur Gurjit
Published: May 2023

Over the years, optical communication systems have been a significant source of fast and secure communication. However, factors like noise and mitigation error can degrade the bit error rate (BER) and quality factor (Q factor) of optical communication systems. Predicting the optimal threshold, Q factor, and BER is usually a difficult task. Therefore, in this paper, machine learning‐based linear regression, least absolute shrinkage and selection operator (LASSO) regression, and Ridge regression have been used for a dense wavelength division multiplexing (DWDM)‐based optical communication network to predict the signal quality. These techniques have been used to predict the desired BER, Q factor, threshold, and eye height of the system. To demonstrate this research concept, a DWDM‐based optical communication network of 50 km length is designed and simulated using Optisystem‐14.0. After data preparation, regression models have been developed and validated through diagnostic plots. Results show that mean square error (MSE) has a significant decline with an increase in the number of epochs for all four models. LASSO and Ridge regression have effectively resolved the issue of overfitting, which occurred in the linear regression case. Furthermore, the mean MSE plot proved the significant reduction of mean MSE in the case of LASSO regression. Results show that min BER for LASSO regression came out to be −173,627.14, providing a robust and cost‐efficient process.
ChatGPT use could change views on academic misconduct
Authors: McCarthy Claudine
Published: May 2023

CLEARWATER, FLORIDA — Student and faculty use of ChatGPT has quickly become one of the biggest controversies in higher education. As detractors resist the free, online text‐generating tool like the plague and others delight in its exciting possibilities, ChatGPT is taking the world by storm, threatening to upend longstanding concepts of plagiarism, authorship, ownership, and learning, according to intellectual property expert Jacob Rooksby, J.D., Ph.D., Professor and Dean of the Gonzaga University School of Law, and IP Optimization Strategist with FIG. 1 Patents, PLLC. He spoke at Stetson University's annual National Conference on Law and Higher Education.
Cultivating accessible architecture for all: an interview with Steve Wright
Authors: Allarakhia Hawa
Published: May 2023

At the University of Miami, students studying architecture now have the opportunity to learn about incorporating accessibility by taking a first‐of‐its‐kind class about universal design. Steve Wright, the instructor of the course, discusses how he integrated the experiences and needs of a wide variety of individuals with disabilities into the course.
How to realize the sustainable distribution of desert riparian forest?
Authors: Zhao Xinfeng , Xu Hailiang , Zhang Peng , Yang Yongqiang , Xu Qiao , Wang Chuhan
Published: May 2023

The purpose of this study is to restore the dominant natural species of the desert riparian forests, that is, Populus euphratica oliv, and clarify the regeneration mechanism. The frequency of P. euphratica euphratica occurrence was investigated, and soil samples were collected every 1 km along the 368‐km river to analyse the distribution and influence mechanism of P. euphratica euphratica. The main results show (1) the distribution of soil salt in the lower reaches of the Tarim River showed the phenomenon of high salt content at the head and the tail, whereas the occurrence frequency of P. euphratica was the opposite. (2) Soil salinity had a significant effect on the distribution of P. euphratica (p < 0.001) but had little effect on the distribution of vegetation coverage and species. Soil salinity limits the distribution of P. euphratica seeds by limiting their germination. When the concentration of NaCl solution reached 0.3 mol/L, the germination rate of P. euphratica seeds began to decrease significantly, and when the concentration reached 0.6 mol/L, the germination rate decreased, with almost no germination. P. euphratica had the lowest saline‐alkali resistance among the main tree species in desert riparian forests. (3) In order to promote the regeneration of forest land, the moderate flooding disturbance should be adopted. Flooding regimes were a pre‐condition of P. euphratica regeneration, which provided conditions for seed germination and seeding growth.
Coronary microvascular dysfunction in Takotsubo syndrome and associations with left ventricular function
Authors: Ekenbäck Christina , Nickander Jannike , Jokhaji Fadi , Tornvall Per , Engblom Henrik , Spaak Jonas , Persson Jonas
Published: May 2023

Aims

Coronary microvascular dysfunction (CMD) has been proposed as an important pathophysiological mechanism in Takotsubo syndrome (TTS). Our aims were (i) to evaluate and compare levels of CMD in patients with TTS and patients with ischaemia and no obstructive coronary arteries (INOCA) and (ii) to investigate associations between CMD and clinical parameters, left ventricular function, and coronary atherosclerosis in TTS.

Methods and results

We conducted a prospective study of 27 female TTS patients and an equally sized, age‐ and gender‐matched, cohort of INOCA patients. Coronary microvascular function was quantified invasively using the index of microcirculatory resistance (IMR), coronary flow reserve (CFR), and resistive reserve ratio (RRR). CMD was defined as IMR ≥ 25 and/or CFR ≤ 2. In the TTS patients, left ventricular function was assessed with echocardiography and cardiovascular magnetic resonance (CMR) imaging, and coronary atherosclerosis was visualized with intravascular ultrasound with near‐infrared spectroscopy (IVUS‐NIRS). The incidence of CMD was higher in the TTS patients than in the INOCA cohort (78% vs. 44%, P = 0.01), with higher IMR (30 vs. 14, P = 0.002), lower CFR (1.8 vs. 2.8, P = 0.009), and lower RRR (2.1 vs. 3.5, P = 0.003). In apical compared with midventricular TTS, IMR was numerically higher (50 vs. 28, P = 0.20), whereas CFR and RRR were lower (1.5 vs. 2.5, P = 0.003 and 1.6 vs. 2.7, P = 0.01, respectively). Global longitudinal strain and global circumferential strain, assessed with CMR imaging, were more impaired in apical than in midventricular TTS (−11 vs. −14, P < 0.001 and −12 vs. −15, P = 0.049, respectively). In the TTS patients, CFR and RRR correlated with echocardiography‐derived (R2 = 0.15, P = 0.002 and R2 = 0.18, P = 0.007, respectively) and CMR‐derived (R2 = 0.09, P = 0.025 and R2 = 0.10, P = 0.038, respectively) ejection fraction. CFR and RRR correlated inversely with CMR‐derived end‐diastolic volume index, end‐systolic volume index, and left ventricular mass index. IMR, CFR, and RRR were not associated with measures of coronary atherosclerosis derived by IVUS‐NIRS.

Conclusions

Coronary microvascular dysfunction is common in patients with TTS and more frequent than in patients with INOCA. CMD in TTS is more severe in the apical compared with the midventricular phenotype of the syndrome, is associated with left ventricular function, but is unrelated to coronary atherosclerosis. Our results support the notion of CMD as a key mediator in TTS.
Acute heart failure and valvular heart disease: A scientific statement of the Heart Failure Association, the Association for Acute CardioVascular Care and the European Association of Percutaneous Cardiovascular Interventions of the European Society of Cardiology
Authors: Chioncel Ovidiu , Adamo Marianna , Nikolaou Maria , Parissis John , Mebazaa Alexandre , Yilmaz Mehmet Birhan , Hassager Christian , Moura Brenda , Bauersachs Johann , Harjola Veli‐Pekka , Antohi Elena‐Laura , Ben‐Gal Tuvia , Collins Sean P. , Iliescu Vlad Anton , Abdelhamid Magdy , Čelutkienė Jelena , Adamopoulos Stamatis , Lund Lars H. , Cicoira Mariantonietta , Masip Josep , Skouri Hadi , Gustafsson Finn , Rakisheva Amina , Ahrens Ingo , Mortara Andrea , Janowska Ewa A. , Almaghraby Abdallah , Damman Kevin , Miro Oscar , Huber Kurt , Ristic Arsen , Hill Loreena , Mullens Wilfried , Chieffo Alaide , Bartunek Jozef , Paolisso Pasquale , Bayes‐Genis Antoni , Anker Stefan D. , Price Susanna , Filippatos Gerasimos , Ruschitzka Frank , Seferovic Petar , Vidal‐Perez Rafael , Vahanian Alec , Metra Marco , McDonagh Theresa A. , Barbato Emanuele , Coats Andrew J.S. , Rosano Giuseppe M.C.
Published: May 2023

Acute heart failure (AHF) represents a broad spectrum of disease states, resulting from the interaction between an acute precipitant and a patient's underlying cardiac substrate and comorbidities. Valvular heart disease (VHD) is frequently associated with AHF. AHF may result from several precipitants that add an acute haemodynamic stress superimposed on a chronic valvular lesion or may occur as a consequence of a new significant valvular lesion. Regardless of the mechanism, clinical presentation may vary from acute decompensated heart failure to cardiogenic shock. Assessing the severity of VHD as well as the correlation between VHD severity and symptoms may be difficult in patients with AHF because of the rapid variation in loading conditions, concomitant destabilization of the associated comorbidities and the presence of combined valvular lesions. Evidence‐based interventions targeting VHD in settings of AHF have yet to be identified, as patients with severe VHD are often excluded from randomized trials in AHF, so results from these trials do not generalize to those with VHD. Furthermore, there are not rigorously conducted randomized controlled trials in the setting of VHD and AHF, most of the data coming from observational studies. Thus, distinct to chronic settings, current guidelines are very elusive when patients with severe VHD present with AHF, and a clear‐cut strategy could not be yet defined. Given the paucity of evidence in this subset of AHF patients, the aim of this scientific statement is to describe the epidemiology, pathophysiology, and overall treatment approach for patients with VHD who present with AHF.
Analysis of the response characteristics of a roadway wall under the impact of gas explosion
Authors: Zhenzhen Jia , Qing Ye
Published: May 2023

Mine gas explosion causes serious failure (damage) to the roadway, but the research on the response characteristics of the impact load of gas explosion to the roadway wall are still very limited. In view of the shortcomings of the existing research, the LS‐DYNA software is used to establish the physical and mathematical models of gas explosion in a roadway, and the validation results show that the model is effective and reliable. Based on the model, changes of pressure, velocity, displacement of roadway walls and equivalent stress under the impact of gas explosions are measured. The response characteristics of the end and wall of roadway under the thermal impact of gas explosion are analyzed. The results show that the pressure on the closed end wall, the center and edge of the roadway is relatively large, and the wall failure is also relatively more serious. With the propagation of gas explosion, the overpressure on the closed end wall gradually attenuates, and the maximum overpressure region also retracts to the center. At the closed end, the explosion pressure is first loaded on the inner wall and gradually transferred to the outer wall. During the transfer, the pressure decays step by step, and the velocity of the measuring point at the closed end decays continuously. With the propagation of gas explosion, the displacement of each measuring point in theZdirection increases continuously. In the axial direction, the displacement near the center of the roadway is large, and then the displacement decreases in the form of regular rings. The impact load produced by the gas explosion is first loaded onto the closed end wall, resulting in wall deformation and equivalent stress. The study results can provide some theoretical basis and data support for the roadway wall design, and reduction of the wall failure.
Numerical investigation on the transient gas–liquid flow in the rapid switching process of pump turbine
Authors: Zhang Fangfang , Zhu Di , Xiao Ruofu , Liu Weichao , Tao Ran
Published: May 2023

The frequent switching of pump mode and turbine mode of the pump turbine leads to frequent transient phenomena. To ensure the safe and stable operation of the unit, a detailed study on the exhaust and pressurization process when the unit switches from turbine mode to the pump mode has been carried out. Based on the Shear Stress Transfer model (SST) k–ω turbulent model, the numerical simulations are processed both in a steady and unsteady state. The visualization results of gas–liquid two phases distribution in the dynamic process of exhaust and pressurization are given, and the characteristic references of each stage are also carried out. The transient characteristics of the torque, axial, and radial force of the runner and guide vane are analyzed by combining the short‐time Fourier transform. The results show that the main frequencies in this transient process are the blade passing frequency and its harmonic frequency. This process also presents a high amplitude band at all frequency values, which may be caused by the entrainment and centrifugal action of the runner on the free liquid surface.