bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Uncovering the Contributions of Charge Regulation to the Stability of Single Alpha Helices**
Authors: Fossat Martin J. , Posey Ammon E. , Pappu Rohit V.
Published: January 2023

The single alpha helix (SAH) is a recurring motif in biology. The consensus sequence has a di‐block architecture that includes repeats of four consecutive glutamate residues followed by four consecutive lysine residues. Measurements show that the overall helicity of sequences with consensus E4K4 repeats is insensitive to a wide range of pH values. Here, we use the recently introduced q‐canonical ensemble, which allows us to decouple measurements of charge state and conformation, to explain the observed insensitivity of SAH helicity to pH. We couple the outputs from separate measurements of charge and conformation with atomistic simulations to derive residue‐specific quantifications of preferences for being in an alpha helix and for the ionizable residues to be charged vs. uncharged. We find a clear preference for accommodating uncharged Glu residues within internal positions of SAH‐forming sequences. The stabilities of alpha helical conformations increase with the number of E4K4 repeats and so do the numbers of accessible charge states that are compatible with forming conformations of high helical content. There is conformational buffering whereby charge state heterogeneity buffers against large‐scale conformational changes thus making the overall helicity insensitive to large changes in pH. Further, the results clearly argue against a single, rod‐like alpha helical conformation being the only or even dominant conformation in the ensembles of so‐called SAH sequences.
Classification of maxillectomy in edentulous arch defects, algorithm, concept, and proposal classifications: A review
Authors: Alqarni Hatem , Alfaifi Mohammed , Ahmed Walaa Magdy , Almutairi Rania , Kattadiyil Mathew T.
Published: January 2023

Objectives

Aramany's classification of postsurgical maxillectomy defects was introduced for partially edentulous situations, and has been widely used for education and effective communication among practitioners. Numerous classifications of maxillofacial defects, based on surgical procedure, resultant defects, or prosthodontist's perspective after rehabilitation, exist in the literature. However, no single classification has incorporated all these factors. The purpose of this review was to highlight the classification systems and describe a pragmatic classification series for edentulous maxillary arch defects (maxillectomy) by applying the Aramany classification criteria, to enhance treatment outcomes and communication among practitioners.

Material and Methods

An electronic search of the literature published in English was conducted using the PubMed/MEDLINE and Google Scholar database. Keywords used were “maxillectomy classification” AND “surgical resection,” “maxillectomy classification” AND “complete edentulous.” In addition, a manual search was also performed followed the same criteria in the following journals: Journal of Prosthetic Dentistry and Journal of Prosthodontics.

Results

Several classification systems for partial dentition were found in terms of size, location, dentition, and extension of the defect (isolated or communication defects). The findings revealed a variety of maxillectomy defect classifications for partially dentate, considering surgical factors and rehabilitation. However, no study or classification system exist for the edentulous arch defects.

Conclusions

Different classification systems for maxillectomy defects exist in the literature, only for partially dentate patients. To the authors best knowledge, no classification system for completely edentulous maxillary arch defects have been proposed till date. A simple classification system with clear characteristics for edentulous maxillectomy dental arch defects has been proposed. This classification was modeled after Aramany classification for easier memorization and application.
OMIP‐088: Twenty‐target imaging mass cytometry panel for major cell populations in mouse formalin fixed paraffin embedded liver
Authors: Birrer Fabienne , Brodie Tess , Stroka Deborah
Published: January 2023

The purpose of this 20‐target imaging mass cytometry (IMC) panel is to identify the main cell types in formalin fixed paraffin embedded (FFPE) mouse liver tissue with the Hyperion™ mass cytometer from Standard BioTools (formerly Fluidigm). The antibody panel includes markers to identify hepatocytes (E‐cadherin, HNF4α (hepatocyte nuclear factor 4 alpha), Arginase‐1), liver sinusoidal endothelial cells (LSECs; CD206), Kupffer cells (F4/80, CD206), neutrophils (Ly6G, CD11b), bone marrow derived myeloid cells (BMDMs; CD11b), cholangiocytes (E‐cadherin high), endothelial cells (CD31, α‐SMA), plasmacytoid dendritic cells (CD317), B cells (CD19), T cells (CD3e, CD4, CD8a), NK cells (CD161) as well markers of cell activation (CD44, CD74), proliferation (Ki‐67) and to aid in cell segmentation (Pan‐Actin, E‐cadherin, histone H3). The panel has been tested in other mouse tissues, namely the spleen, colon and lung, and therefore is likely to work across various mouse FFPE samples of interest. It has not been tested using human samples, frozen samples or in suspension mass cytometry because FFPE treatment profoundly changes epitope conformation. In summary, this panel is a powerful tool for pre‐clinical research to determine cellular abundance and spatial distribution within mouse tissues and serves as a scaffold, to which more targets can be added for project specific requirements.
Porous Magnesium Oxide by Twin Polymerization: From Hybrid Materials to Catalysis
Authors: Scharf Sebastian , Notz Sebastian , Thomas Rico , Mehring Michael , Tegenkamp Christoph , Formánek Petr , Hübner René , Lang Heinrich
Published: January 2023

Twin monomers [Mg(2‐OCH2‐cC6H4O)][L]0.8 (2, L=diglyme) and [Mg(2‐OCH2‐cC6H4O)][L]0.66 (3, L=tmeda) form by their thermal polymerization interpenetrating organic‐inorganic hybrid materials in a straightforward manner. Carbonization (Ar) followed by calcination gave porous MgO (2: surface area 200 m2 g−1, 3: 400 m2 g−1), which showed in catalytic studies towards Meerwein‐Ponndorf‐Verley reductions excellent yields and complete conversions for cyclohexanone and benzaldehyde. However, with crotonaldehyde a mixture of C4–C8 compounds was obtained. When MgO was exposed to air then primarily crotyl alcohol was formed. The range of applications could be easily extended by twin polymerization of 3 in presence of [Cu(O2CCH2O(CH2CH2O)2Me)2] (4) or [Ag(O2CCH2‐cC4H3S)(PPh3)] (5), resulting in the formation of nanoparticle‐decorated porous CuO@MgO or Ag@MgO materials, which showed high catalytic reactivity towards the reduction of methylene blue.
tBu4NCl/K2S2O8 System Induced C‐2 Functionalization of 8‐Aminoquinoline Amides with Primary Alcohols
Authors: Zhang Kaixin , Xu Jianxiong , Xiao Jinxiang , Zhong Ronglin , Li Jizhen
Published: January 2023

A metal and light‐free Minisci‐type acylation approach of 8‐aminoquinoline amides with general primary alcohols was demonstrated under tBu4NCl/K2S2O8 system. Simultaneously, the C2−H alkylation can be realized by accident for special benzyl alcohols bearing strong electron‐donating groups. Most N‐heterocycles were also compatible to afford corresponding acylated products. Furthermore, the mechanism investigation reveals that chlorine radical induced the original ketyl radical generation through abstracting the α‐C−H from the alcohols, then underwent nucleophilic carbon‐centered radicals addition, deprotonation, and oxidation to provide the target acylation products.
A Digital Framework for Locally and Geographically Distributed Simulation of Power Grids
Authors: Kyesswa Michael , Weber Moritz , Wiegel Friedrich , Wachter Jan , Waczowicz Simon , Kühnapfel Uwe , Hagenmeyer Veit
Published: January 2023

The power system sector is expected to contribute significantly to addressing the global climate change challenge through solutions such as the integration of distributed energy resources with low carbon emissions and demand side management as part of the flexibility solutions. However, the transformations in the power grids necessitate additional solutions to ensure the stable and reliable operation of the grids. Such novel solutions require detailed studies in laboratories before implementation in real grids. Power systems simulations combined with power‐hardware‐in‐the‐loop (P‐HIL) experiments provide a reliable form of conducting such studies. The current article introduces the Energy Grids Simulations and Analysis Laboratory of the Energy Lab 2.0 as a digital framework enabling local and distributed analysis of power grids. The outstanding feature of the laboratory is its ability to connect the simulation of validated networks directly to the real hardware of the Energy Lab 2.0 in form of P‐HIL setups and virtually to distant energy research infrastructures, thus enabling geographically distributed experimental studies. Results of the benchmark case studies show that the communication methods available in the simulation laboratory can be used to accurately set up locally and geographically distributed simulations, as well as for reliably interfacing physical hardware components to real‐time simulations.
Situation updating during discourse comprehension recruits right posterior portion of the multiple‐demand network
Authors: Yang XiaoHong , Lin Nan , Wang Lin
Published: January 2023

Discourse comprehension involves the construction of a mental representation of the situation model as well as a continuous update of this representation. This mental update is cognitively demanding and likely engages the multiple‐demand network. However, there is little evidence for the involvement of the multiple‐demand network during situation updating. In this study, we used fMRI to test whether situation updating based on the change of spatial location activated the multiple‐demand network. In a discourse comprehension task, readers read two‐sentence discourses in which the second sentence either continues or introduces a shift of the spatial location information presented in the first sentence. Compared to situation continuation, situation updating reliably activated the right superior parietal lobule. This area is a part of the multiple‐demand network as defined by a digit N‐back localizer task and locates within the dorsal attention network as defined in the previous study by Yeo et al. in 2011. Our results provide evidence for the reliable involvement of a specific area of the multiple‐demand network in situation updating during high‐level discourse processing.
The effects of thermal radiation on unsteady MHD free convective flow through the porous medium between two vertical plates with Hall effects
Authors: Nagaraju L. , Naikoti Kishan
Published: January 2023

The effects of thermal radiation and Hall current on magnetohydrodynamic free convection three‐dimensional flow in a vertical channel filled with a porous medium have been studied. We consider an incompressible viscous and electrically conducting incompressible viscous fluid in a parallel plate channel bounded by a loosely packed porous medium. The fluid is driven by a uniform pressure gradient parallel to the channel plates, and the entire flow field is subjected to a uniform inclined magnetic field of strength inclined at an angle of inclination with the normal to the boundaries in the transverse xy‐plane. The temperature of one of the plates varies periodically, and the temperature difference between the plates is high enough to induce radiative heat transfer. The effects of various parameters on the velocity profiles, the skin friction, the temperature field, and the rate of heat transfer in terms of their amplitude and phase angles are shown graphically.
Near constant groundwater recharge efficiency under global change in a central European catchment
Authors: Riedel Thomas , Weber Tobias K. D. , Bergmann Axel
Published: January 2023

The fraction of precipitation that infiltrates soils and subsequently becomes recharge is one of the principle components of an unconfined aquifer's water budget (this fraction is here termed recharge efficiency). Here we tested how recharge efficiency will respond to climate change including a possible plant physiological response to climate change (e.g., stomatal closure; increasing leaf area) in a catchment used for drinking water production in western Germany. To this end we used a soil water model (HYDRUS‐1D) forced with climate data spanning the time period from 1971 to 2099. Three different vegetation types were considered: turf grass representing the primary infiltration sites within residential areas; maize representing the main crop on agriculturally used land; and beech representing the forested parts of the catchment. We found that, the positive effects of climate change on recharge efficiency (more rain during the main recharge season in winter, less crop water demand due to faster plant ripening in spring and summer, increased plant water use efficiency, reduced global radiation as cloud density increases) were not completely compensated by the negative effects (less precipitation, higher leaf area index and increasing vapour pressure deficit in summer season) at our study site. Because total annual precipitation increased slightly until the end of the 21th century, changes in the amount of total annual recharge were also positive, though moderate (up to +20% change in the period 2071–2099 as compared to 1970–2000). The results of this study will be helpful for water authorities managing water rights under the perspective of a changing climate. In the future, our study site is expected to receive sufficient recharge from precipitation to maintain current rates of groundwater withdrawal for public water supply and irrigation. Thus, the region's agriculture sector may become a ‘global warming winner,’ when cropping in other regions in Europe may increasingly suffer from drying conditions during the growing season.
Spatial Chemoproteomics for Mapping the Active Proteome
Authors: Swenson Colin S. , Smitha Pillai Kavya , Carlos Anthony J. , Moellering Raymond E.
Published: January 2023

Functional regulation of cell signaling through dynamic changes in protein activity state as well as spatial organization represent two dynamic, complex, and conserved phenomena in biology. Seemingly separate areas of ‐omics method development have focused on building tools that can detect and quantify protein activity states, as well as map sub‐cellular and intercellular protein organization. Integration of these efforts, through the development of chemical tools and platforms that enable detection and quantification of protein functional states with spatial resolution provide opportunities to better understand heterogeneity in the proteome within cell organelles, multi‐cellular tissues, and whole organisms. This review provides an overview of and considerations for major classes of chemical proteomic probes and technologies that enable protein activity mapping from sub‐cellular compartments to live animals.
Chinese aid and crime: Evidence from Africa
Authors: Appiah‐Kubi Michael , Jarrett Jeneshia
Published: January 2023

We study how the allocation of resources impacts localised crime rates. Recent studies on the effects of Chinese aid in Africa have increased rapidly, and this paper contributes by showing the mechanism by which aid increases crime. Using a geo‐referenced dataset of subnational allocation of Chinese projects, geographically matched with 145 701 respondents of four rounds of Afrobarometer surveys from 36 African countries, we use a difference‐in‐difference‐in‐difference (DDD) approach and an instrumental variable (IV) identification strategy to account for endogeneity and capture the effect of living near projects under implementation before or after a survey against those with no projects. We find that Chinese aid projects significantly increased crime rates in the immediate locations where the projects were implemented. The main channel of effect is the increased local economic activities leading to the availability of employable opportunities. There is a similar but smaller magnitude of the effect regarding projects funded by other donor agencies.
Optimization of sowing date for spring maize in China's loess plateau based on presowing temperature and soil water content
Authors: Shen Hongzheng , Xu Yue , Wang Yue , Cheng Gang , Li Shilei , Jiang Kongtao , Ma Xiaoyi
Published: January 2023

Background

The sowing date of spring maize in China's Loess Plateau is often restricted by the presowing temperature and soil water content (SWC). The effective measurement of the effects of presowing temperature and SWC on the sowing date is a major concern for agricultural production in this region. In this paper, we considered the average daily air temperature of ˃10 °C in the 7 days before sowing. The Decision Support System for Agrotechnology Transfer (DSSAT) model was used to simulate a spring maize yield under distinct combinations of SWC and sowing date for 51 years (1970–2020). Subsequently, through the cumulative probability distribution function, the contribution of presowing SWC to the spring maize yield was quantified, and the optimal sowing date of spring maize in each production location was determined.

Results

The results revealed that the daily average temperature of ˃10 °C for 7 days consecutively can be used effectively as the basis for the simulation of spring maize sowing date. The presowing SWC affected the spring maize yield but did not change the optimal sowing date. When the SWC of each study site is about 70% of the field capacity, Wenshui and Yuanping can properly delay sowing, and Lin county can sow early to obtain a higher yield.

Conclusion

This study provides an effective approach for optimizing presowing soil moisture management and the sowing date of spring maize in the semiarid regions of the Loess Plateau. © 2023 Society of Chemical Industry.
Team Consistency in Reducing Operative Time in Head and Neck Surgery with Microvascular Free Flap Reconstruction
Authors: Sawaf Tuleen , Renslo Bryan , Virgen Celina , Farrokhian Nathan , Yu Katherine M. , Gessert Thomas G. , Jackson Cree , O'Neill Katie , Sperry Bethany , Kakarala Kiran
Published: January 2023

Objective(s)

To evaluate the impact of consistent surgical teams on procedure duration in head and neck free tissue transfer, and to evaluate the length of stay and readmission rates with consistent teams.

Methods

A retrospective chart review of head and neck microvascular reconstruction by a single surgeon between August 2017 and November 2021 was performed. Procedure duration, wound complications, length of stay, and 30‐day readmissions were analyzed. One circulating nurse (CN) and surgical technologist (ST) were considered “consistent” due to their prior work with the primary surgeon. All others were considered “ad hoc.” Teams were “Consistent CN + ST,” “Consistent ST,” “Consistent CN,” or “Ad hoc.” Procedure duration between groups was compared via analysis of variance. Multivariate linear regression was performed to predict procedure duration.

Results

A total of 135 patients were included. Age, sex, and American Society of Anesthesiologists status did not significantly differ across groups (p = 0.963; p = 0.467; p = 0.908, respectively). The mean procedure duration was 339.3 min and differed significantly across all groups (p = 0.006, Cohen d = 0.32). Compared to the Ad hoc group, consistent teams demonstrated significant reductions in mean procedure duration (Consistent CN + ST: 58.4 min, p = 0.001, Cohen d = 0.67; Consistent ST: 51.6 min, p = 0.013, Cohen d = 0.61; Consistent CN: 44.5 min, p = 0.031, Cohen d = 0.52). Controlling for other factors, the ad hoc team predicted increased procedure duration on multivariate analysis ( 57.38, 19.92–94.85, p < 0.003). Wound complications, length of stay, and readmission rates did not differ significantly across groups (p = 0.940; p = 0.174; p = 0.935, respectively).

Conclusion

Consistent CN and ST improve operative efficiency in head and neck‐free tissue transfer. Future studies may evaluate the impact of team consistency on complications, physician burnout, and health systems costs.

Level of Evidence

3 Laryngoscope, 133:2154–2159, 2023
When to invest in electric vehicles under dual credit policy: A real options approach
Authors: Liu Feng , Tan Yingshuang , Sarkar Sudipto , Zhang Xueqing , Huang Xingjun
Published: January 2023

This research aims to investigate traditional vehicle manufacturers' green technology investment theory under dual credit policy from the perspective of real options, overcoming earlier investigations of this issue that considered it only from a stability or single uncertainty perspective. An analytical real options model was first provided for traditional automaker investment. Then we solved the analytical solution for the electric vehicle investment threshold based on the uncertainty of credit price and fuel vehicle market scenarios. The optimal electric vehicle investment timing is demonstrated using numerical simulation. Results show that (1) when the fuel vehicle market demand falls to a certain level, automakers will choose to make electric vehicle investments regardless of how the credit price changes in the market; (2) the effect of volatility on the investment threshold depends on the covariance or correlation coefficient; (3) the numerical simulation results revealed that the credit price drift rate, risk‐free rate, correlation parameters, and electric vehicle production cost all have a positive impact on the electric vehicle investment region, whereas the drift rate of fuel vehicle and electric vehicle production cost have a negative impact. These results can be used to make theoretical conclusions about electric vehicle investments.
Democratization from below: Civil society in Tajikistan
Authors: Fisher Melton Julie
Published: January 2023

A decade ago an exploration of civil society in South Africa, Tajikistan and Argentina highlighted its role in supporting democratization. Despite continuing global autocratic trends since then, South Africa and Argentina have remained vibrant democracies with strong civil societies. Tajikistan, in contrast, remains autocratic, and civil society has apparently weakened in recent years. However, at the grassroots level a combination of traditional grassroots organizations and Internet organizing provides a more complex picture of the relationships between local participation, ties with other civil society organizations, democratization and development. The purpose of this paper is to highlight both these relationships and the contrast between local democratization and national autocracy.
MMR vaccination timing and long‐term immunity among childhood cancer survivors
Authors: Speckhart Susan Ashley
Published: January 2023

Long‐term seroprotection against the measles and mumps viruses has not been reported in childhood cancer survivor (CCS) who received two‐lifetime doses of the measles, mumps, and rubella (MMR) vaccine. We performed a retrospective study of measles and mumps titers among 55 CCS who received standard chemotherapy and two MMR vaccinations at any time. Over 75% of CCS who received at least one MMR prior to their cancer diagnosis had a negative or equivocal titer to measles or mumps. In contrast, all CCS who received the MMR series following their cancer treatment demonstrated long‐term seroprotection to both viruses at a mean of 8.2 years after their last vaccination.
Barriers to medication adherence among adolescents and young adults with cancer
Authors: McGrady Meghan E. , Ketterl Tyler G. , Norris Robin E. , Perentesis John P. , Pettee Daniel , Mara Constance A. , Breen Gabriella , Pai Ahna L. H.
Published: January 2023

Background

Adherence promotion is a critical component of adolescent and young adult (AYA) cancer care, but predictors of nonadherence that could be targeted in intervention efforts remain largely unknown. The purpose of this multi‐site longitudinal observational study was to examine the relationship between barriers and medication adherence among AYAs with cancer.

Procedure

Sixty‐five AYAs (ages 15–24 years; mean age = 18.97 years, SD = 2.51; Mmean time since diagnosis = 1.42 years, SD = 1.95) with newly diagnosed or relapsed cancer completed self‐report measures of barriers and adherence at quarterly study visits and used an electronic adherence monitoring device for 12 months. Longitudinal mixed effects models were used to examine our primary hypothesis that greater barriers are related to lower adherence over time. Descriptive statistics were used to explore our secondary aim of describing the frequency and patterns of barriers endorsed by AYAs with cancer.

Results

After controlling for covariates (time, medication type, race, ethnicity, diagnosis, time since diagnosis), a greater number of barriers was associated with lower electronically monitored (β = −5.99, p = .005) and self‐reported (β = −1.92, p < .001) adherence. The specific barriers endorsed by AYAs differed across participants, and the majority of AYAs endorsed an entirely different pattern of barriers than any other AYA in the study.

Conclusion

Barriers are associated with nonadherence and may be a promising target for intervention. Individual variability across barriers, however, suggests that tailoring may be necessary, and a promising next step is to explore personalized approaches to adherence promotion.
Gap‐Surface Plasmon‐Enhanced Photoluminescence of InSe
Authors: Lee Ha Young , Nelson Damian , Yan Wei , Crozier Kenneth B. , Bullock James , Kim Sejeong
Published: January 2023

2D materials, with distinct characteristics compared to their conventional bulk counterparts, have been a popular topic in various optoelectronic research fields. Herein, indium selenide (InSe), a monochalcogenide van der Waals layered semiconductor, which has been studied due to its thickness dependent optical characteristics is explored. For InSe to be used as a versatile light source, enhancing the emission of InSe is required. Here, enhanced photoluminescence (PL) from multi‐layer InSe is demonstrated using a gap plasmon induced between Ag nanocube dimer and an Au substrate. Such plasmonic structures support multiple resonances, one of those overlapping with InSe's band edge PL emission. The calculated Purcell factor shows a 200‐fold increase on the short edge of nanocube dimers. Experimentally, PL enhancement of 6‐fold is demonstrated at room temperature. In addition, a method for determining the thickness of 2D materials via dark‐field spectroscopy using white light illumination is shown. This study paves the way for the incorporation of 2D InSe into nanophotonic structures.
Low‐Frequency Vibration and Noise Reduction and Wave Propagation Properties of Hexagonal Hybrid Metamaterials with Local Resonance Strips
Authors: Li Xiao-feng , Cheng Shu-liang , Yang Hong-yun , Yan Qun , Wang Bin , Sun Yong-tao , Ding Qian , Yan Hao , Fan Zi-ye , Xin Ya-jun
Published: January 2023

Based on the idea of local resonance, a class of hybrid acoustic metamaterials with interposed resonant strips is proposed in this article, and the bandgap characteristics and transmission properties are calculated by combining Bloch's theorem and lattice theory. The new structure is verified to have low‐frequency damping and noise reduction capability through the analysis of the stress cloud diagram at specific frequencies in the bandgap range. A comprehensive analysis of vibration modes, phase constant surfaces, group velocity, phase velocity, and wave propagation direction diagram is used to explore the wave propagation and bandgap opening mechanism, providing technical support and theoretical basis for subsequent bandgap optimization and structural improvement. The results show that this structure can open multiple bandgaps in the low‐frequency range below 500 Hz, and the stepped design of the single‐cell structure and the introduction of resonant strips provide a new design idea for low‐frequency vibration and noise reduction.
Safety‐critical control for robotic systems with uncertain model via control barrier function
Authors: Zhang Sihua , Zhai Di‐Hua , Xiong Yuhan , Lin Juncheng , Xia Yuanqing
Published: January 2023

Usually, it is difficult to build accurate dynamic models for real robots, which makes safety‐critical control a challenge. In this regard, this article proposes a double‐level framework to design safety‐critical controller for robotic systems with uncertain dynamics. The high level planner plans a safe trajectory for low level tracker based on the control barrier function (CBF). First, the high level planning is done independently of the dynamic model by quadratic programs subject to CBF constraint. Afterward, a novel method is proposed to learn the uncertainty of drift term and input gain in nonlinear affine‐control system by a data‐driven Gaussian process (GP) approach, in which the learning result of uncertainty in input gain is associated with CBF. Then, a Gaussian processes‐based control barrier function (GP‐CBF) is designed to guarantee the tracking safety with a lower bound on the probability for the low level tracker. Finally, the effectiveness of the proposed framework is verified by the numerical simulation of UR3 robot.
Highly Active and Recyclable CuxFe3‐xO4 NPs for Selective Oxidation of Benzyl Alcohol using TBHP as an Oxidant
Authors: Arjunan Ayyappan , Manikandan Marimuthu , Vijayaraghavan Rajagopalan , Sangeetha Palanivelu
Published: January 2023

Herein, we report the synthesis of CuxFe3‐xO4 nanoparticles (NPs) via a novel, facile, cost‐effective, and eco‐benign method using a water‐soluble egg‐white. The characterization studies confirmed that the fabricated CuxFe3‐xO4 NPs are crystalline and possess super‐paramagnetic behavior. The fabricated magnetic CuxFe3‐xO4 NPs also exhibited excellent catalytic performance towards the selective oxidation of benzyl alcohol to benzaldehyde using tetra‐butyl hydroperoxide (TBHP) as an oxidant under solvent‐free conditions. It was found that the addition of egg‐white during the synthesis significantly enhanced both the crystallinity and catalytic activity. Among the prepared ratios, Cu1.5Fe1.5O4 demonstrated the highest conversion (>73 %) and complete selectivity (100 %) to benzaldehyde under lenient oxidation conditions. The novelty of the work lies in achieving the magnetically recoverable CuxFe3‐xO4 NPs in the absence of any base or other organic reagents and is highly selective for the production of benzaldehyde under the mild reaction condition.
Metallic MoO2 as a Highly Selective Catalyst for Electrochemical Nitrogen Fixation to Ammonia under Ambient Conditions
Authors: N. K Muhammed Safeer , Sathiskumar Chinnusamy , John Neena S.
Published: January 2023

The development of earth‐abundant and non‐noble based metal catalysts for electrochemical nitrogen reduction towards sustainable ammonia production from N2 and H2O in the ambient atmosphere holds immense potential in realizing an alternate route to energy‐intensive Haber‐Bosch process. Herein, we have employed highly conductive MoO2 synthesized by hydrothermal route as an electrocatalyst for ammonia generation. The MoO2 catalyst was employed for electrochemical nitrogen reduction in N2 saturated 0.1 m HCl electrolyte in a two‐compartment cell. Ammonia yield rate of 2.30 μg h−1 mg−1cat and 2.40 % Faradaic efficiency has been obtained at a potential of −0.3 V vs. RHE. The MoO2 catalyst is selective for ammonia generation without any hydrazine formation. The metallic nature of MoO2 catalyst assists in achieving comparable activity for the electrochemical nitrogen reduction. The above catalyst has the potential for providing better ammonia yield rate by combining or doping with other active elements.
Surfactant‐Mediated Synthesis of Novel Mesoporous Hollow CuO Nanotubes as an Anode Material for Lithium‐Ion Battery Application
Authors: Singh J. , Lee S. , Tomar A. , Zulkifli  , Kim Jaekook , Kumar Rai Alok
Published: January 2023

In this work, the hollow mesoporous CuO nanotubes are synthesized using a surfactant‐assisted soft template approach. It is believed that the surfactant used during the synthesis provides a skeleton for the rearrangement of nanoparticles, resulting in the formation of hollow nanotubes. Furthermore, the sample becomes mesoporous during the calcination at 500 °C due to the removal of the surfactant template. On the other hand, the porous nanostructure efficiently improves the reaction kinetics of the electrode material, which offers excellent electrochemical performance. The obtained hollow mesoporous CuO nanotube electrode manifests high Li‐ion storage such as ∼253 mAh g−1 at 1 C and 118 mAh g−1 at 3 C after 150 cycles. It is significant to highlight that the current synthesis process is straightforward, affordable, time‐efficient and environment friendly as compared to tedious physical approaches. In addition, the proposed strategy in this work also demonstrates a window for the development of new advanced nanomaterials for post‐lithium‐ion battery applications.
Orthogonal Light‐Dependent Membrane Adhesion Induces Social Self‐Sorting and Member‐Specific DNA Communication in Synthetic Cell Communities
Authors: Heidari Ali , Sentürk Oya I. , Yang Shuo , Joesaar Alex , Gobbo Pierangelo , Mann Stephen , de Greef Tom F. A. , Wegner Seraphine V.
Published: January 2023

Developing orthogonal chemical communication pathways in diverse synthetic cell communities is a considerable challenge due to the increased crosstalk and interference associated with large numbers of different types of sender‐receiver pairs. Herein, the authors control which sender‐receiver pairs communicate in a three‐membered community of synthetic cells through red and blue light illumination. Semipermeable protein‐polymer‐based synthetic cells (proteinosomes) with complementary membrane‐attached protein adhesion communicate through single‐stranded DNA oligomers and synergistically process biochemical information within a community consisting of one sender and two different receiver populations. Different pairs of red and blue light‐responsive protein‐protein interactions act as membrane adhesion mediators between the sender and receivers such that they self‐assemble and socially self‐sort into different multicellular structures under red and blue light. Consequently, distinct sender‐receiver pairs come into the signaling range depending on the light illumination and are able to communicate specifically without activation of the other receiver population. Overall, this work shows how photoswitchable membrane adhesion gives rise to different self‐sorting protocell patterns that mediate member‐specific DNA‐based communication in ternary populations of synthetic cells and provides a step towards the design of orthogonal chemical communication networks in diverse communities of synthetic cells.
Metallic Metastable Hybrid 1T′/1T Phase Triggered Co,PSnS2 Nanosheets for High Efficiency Trifunctional Electrocatalyst
Authors: Singh Manjinder , Nguyen Thanh Tuan , P Muthu Austeria , Ngo Quynh Phuong , Kim Do Hwan , Kim Nam Hoon , Lee Joong Hee
Published: January 2023

The development of trifunctional electrocatalyst for oxygen reduction reaction (ORR), oxygen evolution reaction (OER), and hydrogen evolution reaction (HER) with deeply understanding the mechanism to enhance the electrochemical performance is still a challenging task. In this work, the distorted metastable hybrid‐phase induced 1T′/1T Co,PSnS2 nanosheets on carbon cloth (1T′/1T Co,PSnS2@CC) is prepared and examined. The density functional theoretical (DFT) calculation suggests that the distorted 1T′/1T Co,PSnS2 can provide excellent conductivity and strong hydrogen adsorption ability. The electronic structure tuning and enhancement mechanism of electrochemical performance are investigated and discussed. The optimal 1T′/1T Co,PSnS2@CC catalyst exhibits low overpotential of ≈94 and 219.7 mV at 10 mA cm−2 for HER and OER, respectively. Remarkably, the catalyst exhibits exceptional ORR activity with small onset potential value (≈0.94 V) and half‐wave potential (≈0.87 V). Most significantly, the 1T′/1T Co,PSnS2||Co,PSnS2 electrolyzer required small cell voltages of ≈1.53, 1.70, and 1.82 V at 10, 100, and 400 mA cm−2, respectively, which are better than those of state‐of‐the‐art Pt‐C||RuO2 (≈1.56 and 1.84 V at 10 and 100 mA cm−2). The present study suggests a new approach for the preparation of large‐scalable, high performance hierarchical 3D next‐generation trifunctional electrocatalysts.
Renal Clearable Catalytic 2D Au–Porphyrin Coordination Polymer Augmented Photothermal‐Gas Synergistic Cancer Therapy
Authors: Zhou Gaoxin , Chen Yang , Chen Wenhao , Wu Hao , Yu Yun , Sun Chunlong , Hu Benhui , Liu Yun
Published: January 2023

As a gasotransmitter, carbon monoxide (CO) possesses antitumor activity by reversing the Warburg effect at higher concentrations. The targeted delivery of carbon monoxide‐releasing molecules (CORMs) using nanomaterials is an appealing option for CO administration, but how to maintain CO above the threshold concentration in tumor tissue remains a challenge. Herein, a nanozyme‐catalyzed cascade reaction is proposed to promote CO release for high‐efficacy photothermal therapy (PTT)‐combined CO therapy of cancer. A gold‐based porphyrinic coordination polymer nanosheet (Au0–Por) is synthesized to serve as a carrier for CORM. It also possesses excellent glucose oxygenase‐like activity owing to ultrasmall zero‐valent gold atoms on the nanosheet. The catalytically generated H2O2 can efficiently catalyze CORM decomposition, which enables in situ generation of sufficient CO for gas therapy. In vivo, the Au0–Por nanosheets‐enhanced photoacoustic imaging (PAI) and fluorescence imaging collectively demonstrate high tumor‐targeting efficiency and nanomaterial retention. Proven to have augmented therapeutic efficacy, the nanoplatform can also be easily degraded and excreted through the kidney, indicating good biocompatibility. Thus, the application of rational designed Au0–Por nanosheet with facile approach and biodegradable property to PAI‐guided synergistic gas therapy can provide a strategy for the development of biocompatible and highly effective gaseous nanomedicine.
Morphology‐Tailored Hydroxyapatite Nanocarrier for Rhizosphere‐Targeted Phosphorus Delivery
Authors: Tang Siqi , Liang Jiaming , Li Ouyang , Shao Ningning , Jin Yongsheng , Ni Jinren , Fei Xunchang , Li Zhenshan
Published: January 2023

High hydrophilicity and soil fixation collectively hamper the delivery of phosphorus (P) released from conventional chemical phosphorus fertilizers (CPFs) to plant rhizosphere for efficient uptake. Here, a phosphorus nutrient nanocarrier (PNC) based on morphology‐tailored nanohydroxyapatite (HAP) is constructed. By virtue of kinetic control of building blocks with designed calcium phosphate intermediates, rod‐like and hexagonal prism‐like PNCs are synthesized, both having satisfactory hydrophobicity (water contact angle of 105.4–132.9°) and zeta potential (−17.43 to −58.4 mV at pH range from 3 to 13). Greenhouse experiments demonstrate that the P contents increase by up to 183% in maize rhizosphere and up to 16% in maize biomass when compared to the CPF. Due to the water potential gradient driven by photosynthesis and transpiration, both PNCs are stably transported to maize rhizosphere, and they are capable to counteract soil fixation prior to uptake by plant roots. Within the synergies of the HAP morphological characteristics and triggered phosphate starvation response, root anatomy confirms that two pathways are elucidated to enhance plant P replenishment from the PNCs. Together with structure tunability and facile synthesis, our results offer a new nanodelivery prototype to accommodate plant physiological traits by tailoring the morphology of HAP.
Growth of Boron Nitride Nanotube Over Al‐Based Active Catalyst and its Application in Thermal Management
Authors: He Qian , Ding Liping , Wu Liyun , Zhou Zhengyang , Wang Ying , Xu Tao , Wang Nanyang , Zhang Kai , Wang Xuebin , Ding Feng , Zhang Jin , Yao Yagang
Published: January 2023

The effective identification of the active catalytic phase is essential to elucidate the growth mechanism of boron nitride nanotubes (BNNTs) and realize their controllable and scalable synthesis. However, owing to the complexity of chemical reactions during BNNT growth via chemical vapor deposition (CVD) and the lack of techniques for in situ characterization at high temperatures (1100–1300 °C), identifying the true catalyst during BNNT growth is challenging. Herein, an aluminum (Al)‐based active catalyst for BNNT growth via CVD is investigated. The initial Al2O3 nanoparticle catalyst precursor is transformed into an Al‐B phase prior to BNNT growth. Based on our density functional theory‐based molecular dynamic simulations of BNNT nucleation, AlB
x
(x = 1.5 to 2) shows catalytic activity for the formation of BN chains and BN six‐membered rings. Confirmatory experiments demonstrate that AlB2 is the active Al‐based catalyst during BNNT growth. A nanocomposite is prepared from cellulose nanocrystal, and purified BNNTs exhibited a high in‐plane thermal conductivity of 13.33 W m−1 K−1 at 20 wt% BNNTs. A further application for light‐emitting diode chip cooling demonstrates excellent heat‐dissipation performance of the nanocomposite film. Thus, this study can guide the controllable synthesis of high‐quality BNNTs and facilitate their use in thermal interface materials.
Farmer‐led irrigation development in sub‐Saharan Africa
Authors: Harmon Grace , Jepson Wendy , Lefore Nicole
Published: January 2023

Farmer‐led irrigation development (FLID) is a process where individual farmers play a driving role in configuring agricultural technology practices, crop‐specific market linkages, land and water governance arrangements, and informal and formal value chain actor networks. Multilateral donors are increasingly funding FLID as a development strategy in sub‐Saharan Africa to expand irrigation coverage, recognizing co‐benefits such as enhanced climate resilience, improved household food insecurity, and alleviated rural poverty. This review suggests that FLID can be understood as a farmer response to the shortcomings of neoliberal structural adjustment and cost recovery policies. Simultaneously, multilateral donor‐funded FLID projects advance Integrated Water Resource Management (IWRM) policy tools, exposing a policy paradox. Following multilateral and bilateral donor investments in FLID over 30 years, the review establishes how farmers initiated their own irrigation investments and the subsequent “scale‐up” of FLID by multilateral finance institutions. The stances of multilateral donors (e.g., World Bank) and multilateral entities (e.g., FAO) toward water governance for FLID present a contradictory picture. The review demonstrates how multilateral donors have transformed FLID into distinct agribusiness project models through Water‐Energy‐Food nexus and climate frameworks, with attention to farmers' collective action strategies. However, collective action as an avenue for the expansion of FLID does not automatically guarantee a socially inclusive and environmentally sustainable process across project models. Future research should focus on examining socioeconomic impacts on farmers participating in a project intervention, as well as farmers and irrigated value chain actors in proximal areas, to work toward effective and equitable water governance for FLID.

This article is categorized under:

Human Water > Water Governance

Human Water > Rights to Water
The Right to (Not) Be Forgotten, Right to Know, and Model of Four Categories of the Right to Be Forgotten
Authors: Čtvrtník Mikuláš
Published: January 2023

Both at the level of the most basic civil and democratic rights declared at the constitutional level and specifically in the field of archiving, there has long been a fundamental tension between two principles: On the one hand, it is the right to the protection of personality, privacy, and the private sphere, specifically expressed also in the form of the right to protection of personal data and restriction of their disclosure. On the other hand, there is the right of access to information, freedom of inquiry, and similar rights, which can be summarised under the common denominator of the right to know. This dichotomy, in a specific and in a way analogous sense, is also at the level of the relationship between the right to be forgotten and, conversely, the right to be remembered and not forgotten.

Encounters and, in many cases, clashes between these two principles on both levels of meaning have changed in recent years and have intensified, including in court decisions. What implications does it have for archiving, for the creation and preservation of collective memory in society, and for the relationship to one’s own history? What are the implications of the current development of the legal order for the archival sector, within the European Union, especially in connection with the adoption of the General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR), specifically at the level of the application of the right to be forgotten as one of the new rights of the European citizen, which, however, has much deeper and older roots than the existence of the GDPR? How does the newly established right to be forgotten manifest in the field of archiving? What impacts and potential risks can be expected when applying this newly formed right of (not only) the European citizen to archival practice? This chapter will seek answers to the above questions. The chapter will include the presentation of the author’s concept of a model of the four categories of the right to be forgotten, applicable mainly in the field of records management and archiving, but also in a wide range of scientific disciplines.
RanBox: anomaly detection in the copula space
Authors: Dorigo Tommaso , Fumanelli Martina , Maccani Chiara , Mojsovska Marija , Strong Giles C. , Scarpa Bruno
Published: January 2023

Abstract

The unsupervised search for overdense regions in high-dimensional feature spaces, where locally high population densities may be associated with anomalous contaminations to an otherwise more uniform population, is of relevance to applications ranging from fundamental research to industrial use cases. Motivated by the specific needs of searches for new phenomena in particle collisions, we propose a novel approach that targets signals of interest populating compact regions of the feature space. The method consists in a systematic scan of subspaces of a standardized copula of the feature space, where the minimum p-value of a hypothesis test of local uniformity is sought by greedy descent. We characterize the performance of the proposed algorithm and show its effectiveness in several experimental situations.