bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Long‐Cycle‐Life Cathode Materials for Sodium‐Ion Batteries toward Large‐Scale Energy Storage Systems
Authors: Zhang Hang , Gao Yun , Liu Xiaohao , Zhou Lifeng , Li Jiayang , Xiao Yao , Peng Jian , Wang Jiazhao , Chou Shu‐Lei
Published: May 2023

The development of large‐scale energy storage systems (ESSs) aimed at application in renewable electricity sources and in smart grids is expected to address energy shortage and environmental issues. Sodium‐ion batteries (SIBs) exhibit remarkable potential for large‐scale ESSs because of the high richness and accessibility of sodium reserves. Using low‐cost and abundant elements in cathodes with long cycling stability is preferable for lowering expenses on cathodes. Many investigated cathodes for SIBs are dogged by structural and morphology changes, unstable interphases between the cathode and the electrolyte, and air sensitivity, causing unsatisfactory cycling performance. Therefore, understanding the mechanism of capacity degeneration in depth and developing precise solutions are critical for designing low‐cost cathodes that are highly stable under cycling. Herein, recent progress in long‐cycle‐life and low‐cost cathodes for SIBs is focused on, and a comprehensive discussion of the key points in SIBs toward large‐scale applications is provided. The roots of the unstable cycling performance of low‐cost cathodes are discussed. Also, effective strategies are summarized from the recent progress on long‐cycle‐life and low‐cost cathodes. This review is expected to encourage deeper investigation of long‐lifespan cathodes for SIBs, particularly for potential large‐scale industrialization.
Hydroperoxide‐Mediated Degradation of Acetonitrile in the Lithium–Air Battery
Authors: McNulty Rory C. , Jones Kieran D. , Holc Conrad , Jordan Jack W. , Bruce Peter G. , Walsh Darren A. , Newton Graham N. , Lam Hon Wai , Johnson Lee R.
Published: May 2023

Understanding and eliminating degradation of the electrolyte solution is arguably the major challenge in the development of high energy density lithium–air batteries. The use of acetonitrile provides cycle stability comparable to current state‐of‐the‐art glyme ethers and, while solvent degradation has been extensively studied, no mechanism for acetonitrile degradation has been proposed. Through the application of in situ pressure measurements and ex situ characterization to monitor the degradation of acetonitrile in the lithium–air battery, a correlation between H2O concentration within the cell and deviation from the idealized electron/oxygen ratio is revealed. Characterization of the cycled electrolyte solution identifies acetamide as the major degradation product under both cell and model conditions. A new degradation pathway is proposed that rationalizes the formation of acetamide, identifies the role of H2O in the degradation process, and confirms lithium hydroperoxide as a critical antagonistic species in lithium–air cells for the first time. These studies highlight the importance of considering the impact of atmospheric gases when exploring lithium–air cell chemistry and suggest that further exploration of the impact of hydroperoxide species on the degradation in lithium–air cells may lead to identification of more effective electrolyte solvents.
Strain Regulation via Pseudo Halide‐Based Ionic Liquid toward Efficient and Stable α‐FAPbI3 Inverted Perovskite Solar Cells
Authors: Jiang Xiaofen , Wang Xue , Wu Xin , Zhang Shoufeng , Liu Baoze , Zhang Dong , Li Bo , Xiao Peng , Xu Fang , Lu Haipeng , Chen Tao , Jen Alex K.‐Y. , Yang Shangfeng , Zhu Zonglong
Published: May 2023

Inverted (p‐i‐n) perovskite solar cells have drawn great attention due to their outstanding stability and low‐temperature processibility. However, their power conversion efficiency (PCE) still lags behind conventional (n‐i‐p) devices mainly due to the lack of strategies to stabilize α‐FAPbI3 without changing the bandgap. In this work, a facile and effective strategy is reported to regulate the residual strain via pseudo halide‐based ionic liquids incorporation to stabilize α‐FAPbI3 perovskite in inverted perovskite solar cells (PVSCs). The employment of methylamine formate (MAFa) ionic liquid enables a homogenously stronger compressive strain to restrain the transition of shared‐corner PbI6 octahedron into shared‐face δ‐FAPbI3, as well as affecting the dynamic behavior of carriers and defects to achieve a record PCE (24.08%) among the reported inverted FAPbI3 perovskite solar cells up to now. In addition, the MAFa incorporation results in enhanced device stability, unencapsulated PVSC retains over 90% of its initial efficiency after stored in ambient environment (RH:30 ± 5%) for 1000 h. This work provides an efficient strategy to realize efficient and stable α‐FAPbI3 based inverted PVSCs to further catch up with the conventional ones.
High‐Capacity, Long‐Life Iron Fluoride All‐Solid‐State Lithium Battery with Sulfide Solid Electrolyte
Authors: Peng Jian , Wang Xue , Li Hong , Chen Liquan , Wu Fan
Published: May 2023

Metal fluoride–lithium batteries with potentially high‐energy densities are regarded as promising candidates for next‐generation low‐cost rechargeable batteries. However, liquid‐electrolyte metal fluoride–lithium batteries suffer from sluggish reaction kinetics, high voltage hysteresis due to side reactions, poor rate capability, and rapid capacity drop during cycling. Moreover, the research on sulfide all‐solid‐state batteries (ASSBs) with metal fluoride cathode is still lacking. Herein, four kinds of iron fluoride materials are applied to the sulfide all‐solid‐state lithium battery system for the first time to investigate the best cathode and corresponding methods. Electrochemical tests showed the cycling performance at different current densities (0.1, 0.3, and 1 C) and rate performance of the four cathodes with the following rules: FeF3‐HT > FeF3‐RT > FeF3·0.33H2O > FeF3·3H2O. The reversible capacities of FeF3‐HT AASB are 519.9 mAh g−1 after 120 cycles at 0.3C and still maintains 340.7 mAh g−1 after 400 cycles even at a high rate of 1 C. In addition, electro impedence spectroscopy and cyclic voltammetry tests of the above four cathodes show that different contents of crystal water, morphologies, and particle sizes have a great influence on the lithium storage mechanism of cathode. Moreover, the reason for the FeF3‐HT cathode's superior specific capacity and rate performance compared with other cathodes at high current densities is revealed, according to cyclic voltammogram tests under different scan rates. The cause is that FeF3‐HT has the highest proportion of the contribution capacity of the cathode surface control process. The above research opens up a new avenue for FeF3‐HT, FeF3‐RT, FeF3·0.33H2O, and FeF3·3H2O cathodes in sulfide ASSBs.
Response of peanut (Arachis hypogaea L.) to sublethal rates of dicamba plus glyphosate at different growth stages
Authors: Daramola Olumide S. , Kharel Prasanna , Iboyi Joseph E. , Devkota Pratap
Published: May 2023

The widespread adoption of dicamba‐resistant crops has increased the applications of newer dicamba formulations for weed control. However, there is a concern for potential off‐target injury and yield reduction to peanuts (Arachis hypogea L.) planted in close proximity to dicamba‐resistant crops. Field experiments were conducted in the summer of 2019 and 2020 to evaluate peanut response to reduced rates (1/512X, 1/128X, 1/32X, and 1/8X the label rate, 564 + 1280 g ae ha−1) of dicamba plus glyphosate (XtendiMax plus Roundup PowerMax) at 25, 50, and 75 days after planting (DAP) which corresponds to vegetative, flowering, and pod development stages, respectively. Peanut exposure to dicamba plus glyphosate at 25 DAP resulted in 1.6–2.3 times greater injury and 3.4–8.5 times greater height and canopy width reductions compared to 50 and 75 DAP exposures. Peanuts suffered greater yield reduction (18%–19%) when exposed to dicamba plus glyphosate at 25 and 75 DAP than at 50 DAP (10%). Regression analysis indicated a significant linear response for peanut injury (except at 8 weeks after treatment), canopy width reduction, and yield reduction with an increasing rate of dicamba plus glyphosate. Dicamba plus glyphosate at 1/512X rate resulted in a 3% peanut yield reduction, whereas a 41% yield reduction was observed at 1/8X rate. Correlation analysis, with Pearson's rho values ranging from 0.81 to 0.86, showed that peanut injury can be a useful predictor for estimating yield reduction. Therefore, extreme care must be taken to prevent drift occurrence or spray‐tank contamination when applying dicamba plus glyphosate on XtendFlex crops near peanut fields.
Mucin‐inspirierte Einzelstrang‐Polymerfasern (MIP) als wirksame SARS‐CoV‐2‐Inhibitoren
Authors: Bej Raju , Nie Chuanxiong , Ludwig Kai , Ahmadi Vahid , Trimpert Jakob , Adler Julia M. , Povolotsky Tatyana L. , Achazi Katharina , Kagelmacher Marten , Vidal Ricardo Martin , Dernedde Jens , Kaufer Benedikt B. , Haag Rainer
Published: May 2023

Mucine sind eine Schlüsselkomponente der defensiven Schleimbarriere. Es handelt sich um ausgedehnte Fasern mit sehr hohem Molekulargewicht, deren vielfältige biologische Funktionen stark von ihren spezifischen Strukturparametern abhängen. Hier stellen wir eine Mucin‐inspirierte Nanostruktur basierend auf dendronisierten Polysulfaten auf Methacrylatbasis (MIP‐1) mit hohem Molekulargewicht (MW=450 kDa) vor. Das Thiol‐End‐funktionalisierte Mucin‐inspiriertem Polymer (MIP) wurde durch RAFT‐Polymerisation im Multi‐Gramm‐Maßstab hergestellt. Die Kryo‐Elektronentomographie‐Analyse (Kryo‐ET) von MIP‐1 bestätigte eine Mucin‐artige, wurmartige einkettige Faserstruktur (Länge=144±59 nm) in wässriger Lösung. Diese biokompatible Faser zeigte eine vielversprechende Aktivität mit einer bemerkenswert niedrigen mittleren inhibitorischen Konzentration (IC50, mit IC50=10.0 nM) gegenüber SARS‐CoV‐2 und dessen Mutantenstamm. Darüber hinaus untersuchen wir die Auswirkungen der Faserlänge auf die Hemmung gegenüber SARS‐CoV‐2, indem wir andere funktionelle Polymere (MIPs) mit unterschiedlichen Faserlängen miteinander vergleichen.
Reactive Magnesium Nitride Additive: A Drop‐in Solution for Lithium/Garnet Wetting in All‐Solid‐State Batteries
Authors: Chen Linhui , Tong Rong‐Ao , Zhang Jingxi , Wang Hailong , Shao Gang , Dong Yanhao , Wang Chang‐An
Published: May 2023

Garnet oxides such as Li6.4La3Zr1.4Ta0.6O12 (LLZTO) are promising solid electrolyte materials for all‐solid‐state lithium‐metal batteries because of high ionic conductivity, low electronic leakage, and wide electrochemical stability window. While LLZTO has been frequently discussed to be stable against lithium metal anode, it is challenging to achieve and maintain good solid‐on‐solid wetting at the metal/ceramic interface in both processing and extended electrochemical cycling. Here we address the challenge by a powder‐form magnesium nitride additive, which reacts with the lithium metal anode to produce well‐dispersed lithium nitride. The in situ formed lithium nitride promotes reactive wetting at the Li/LLZTO interface, which lowers interfacial resistance, increases critical current density (CCD), and improves cycling stability of the electrochemical cells. The additive recipe has been diversified to titanium nitride, zirconium nitride, tantalum nitride, and niobium nitride, thus supporting the general concept of reactive dispersion‐plus‐wetting. Such a design can be extended to other solid‐state devices for better functioning and extended cycle life.
Electrocatalytic Reduction of Nitrogen to Ammonia Using Tiara‐like Phenylethanethiolated Nickel Cluster
Authors: Maman Manju P. , Gurusamy Tamilselvi , Pal Arun K. , Jana Rajkumar , Ramanujam Kothandaraman , Datta Ayan , Mandal Sukhendu
Published: May 2023

The fixing of N2 to NH3 is challenging due to the inertness of the N≡N bond. Commercially, ammonia production depends on the energy‐consuming Haber‐Bosch (H−B) process, which emits CO2 while using fossil fuels as the sources of hydrogen and energy. An alternative method for NH3 production is the electrochemical nitrogen reduction reaction (NRR) process as it is powered by renewable energy sources. Here, we report a tiara‐like nickel‐thiolate cluster, [Ni6(PET)12] (where, PET=2‐phenylethanethiol)] as an efficient electro‐catalyst for the electrochemical NRR at ambient conditions. Ammonia (NH3: 16.2±0.8 μg h−1 cm−2) was the only nitrogenous product over the potential of −2.3 V vs. Fc+/Fc with a Faradaic efficiency of 25%±1.7. Based on theoretical calculations, NRR by [Ni6(PET)12] proceeds through both the distal and alternating pathways with an onset potential of −1.84 V vs. RHE (i.e., −2.46 V vs. Fc+/Fc) which corroborates with the experimental findings.
Investigation on nitrogen oxidation characteristics and volatile–char interaction during co‐combustion of semi‐coke and bituminous coal
Authors: Zhang Jinping , Wang Chang'an , Chen Lei , Che Defu
Published: May 2023

Blending bituminous coal (BC) in semi‐coke (SC) is a promising approach to improve the combustion behaviors of SC, while the nitrogen conversion characteristics during the co‐combustion are still unclear. This paper deals with the oxidation characteristics of volatile‐N and char‐N and their contributions to total NO during the co‐combustion of SC and BC using a volatile–char separated combustion system. By comparing the volatile–char separated combustion with the entrained flow combustion, the interaction between volatile‐N and char‐N has also been elucidated. Results indicated volatile‐N was the main contribution to total NO formation for both SC and BC at temperatures above 1000°C. The volatile‐NO and char‐NO conversion ratios presented distinct variations along with the temperature, and the temperature had different impact on the two combustion modes. The char‐NO was more sensitive to the variation of oxygen concentration, and the nitrogen conversion of SC was more susceptible to oxygen compared with that of BC. The blending of BC inhibited the volatile‐NO and char‐NO formation of SC, and the inhibition effect enhanced in pace with the blending ratio of BC. The influence of volatile–char interaction on nitrogen conversion was temperature‐dependent and fuel‐varying: for SC, it was more significant in pyrolysis stage in the temperature range of 900°C to 1400°C, and sufficient pyrolysis measures can effectively reduce the NO formation; however, the identical result occurred when the temperature exceeded 1100°C for the blend.
Enhancement of the dielectric energy storage performance of PVDF‐TrFE composite film via core‐shell structured (1‐x)Ba(Ti0.8Zr0.2)O3‐x(Ba0.7Ca0.3)TiO3@TiO2
Authors: Ding Yuxing , Zhang Weimin , Zou Xuexue , Wang Zengmei
Published: May 2023

PVDF‐based materials have gained significant attention in the field of dielectric energy storage due to their excellent breakdown strength and energy storage density. However, the improvement has been limited by their low dielectric constant. In this article, the PVDF‐TrFE composite films with core‐shell structured (1‐x)Ba(Ti0.8Zr0.2)O3‐x(Ba0.7Ca0.3)TiO3@TiO2(BZT‐xBCT@TiO2) nanofibers were fabricated using hot pressing, electrospinning, and hydrothermal method. Doping the PVDF‐TrFE composite film with 3 wt% BZT‐0.6BCT increased its energy storage density to 14.2 J·cm−3. When the doped ceramic fibers were coated with the TiO2 core‐shell of ~75 nm, the composite film exhibits improved breakdown field strength (Eb) of 365 kV mm−1, enhanced energy storage density (Ue) of 18.71 J·cm−3, and superior energy storage efficiency (η) of 60.03%.
Recent Research Progress of Surface‐Enhanced Raman Scattering Dominated Analysis Strategies in Early Diagnosis of Diseases
Authors: Chen Yixin , Zheng Shujun , Tang Xiaoya , Wang Fei , Wang Linjie , Li Caolong
Published: May 2023

Timely and powerful diagnostic means can achieve better therapeutic effects, reduce disease torment, and improve survival rate. As a powerful non‐invasive spectroscopy technology, surface‐enhanced Raman scattering (SERS) have testified to be a great potential candidate for extensive early clinical disease diagnosis. In recent years, the introduction of SERS label, combined with other analysis modes or artificial intelligence, and the emergence of miniaturized devices have made SERS technology more advantageous in early diagnosis of diseases. This review focuses on the research progress of SERS dominated analytical strategies in the field of early disease diagnosis in the past five years. The main content includes the application of label‐free SERS detection; the construction of label SERS methodologies for various disease markers; SERS dominated multimode early disease diagnosis strategies; integration of SERS and artificial intelligence; portable Raman equipment and SERS imaging; and opportunities and trends for SERS diagnostic technology in the future.
Optimizing VLP production in gene therapy: Opportunities and challenges for in silico modeling
Authors: Zehetner Leopold , Széliová Diana , Kraus Barbara , Graninger Michael , Zanghellini Jürgen , Hernandez Bort Juan A.
Published: May 2023

Over the past decades, virus‐like particle (VLP)‐based gene therapy (GT) evolved as a promising approach to cure inherited diseases or cancer. Tremendous costs due to inefficient production processes remain one of the key challenges despite considerable efforts to improve titers. This review aims to link genome‐scale metabolic models (GSMMs) to cell lines used for VLP synthesis for the first time. We summarize recent advances and challenges of GSMMs for Chinese hamster ovary (CHO) cells and provide an overview of potential cell lines used in GT. Although GSMMs in CHO cells led to significant improvements in growth rates and recombinant protein (RP)‐production, no GSMM has been established for VLP production so far. To facilitate the generation of GSMM for these cell lines we further provide an overview of existing omics data and the highest production titers so far reported.
A Novel Biomaterial for Decolorization of Azo Dyes: Myoglobin‐Zn(II) Assisted Hybrid Nanoflowers
Authors: Altinkaynak Cevahir , Turk Merve , Yangin Nazlican , Özdemir Nalan
Published: May 2023

Protein‐inorganic hybrid nanoflowers are new multifunctional materials shown enhanced catalytic performance. Specially, they are used as catalyst and dye decolorizer via Fenton reaction. In this study, the Myoglobin‐Zn (II) assisted hybrid nanoflowers (MbNFs@Zn) were fabricated by using myoglobin and zinc (II) ions in different synthesis conditions. The optimum morphology was characterized SEM, TEM, EDX, XRD, and FT‐IR. The hemisphere and uniform morphology was obtained at pH 6 and 0.1 mg mL−1. The size of MbNFs@Zn are 5–6 μm. The encapsulation yield was ∼95 %. In the presence of H2O2, the peroxidase mimic activity of MbNFs@Zn was spectrophotometrically investigated in the different pH values (4–9). The highest peroxidase mimic activity was found as 3.378 EU/mg at pH 4. MbNFs@Zn was exhibited 0.28 EU/mg after eight cycles. MbNFs@Zn has lost about 92 % of its activity. The usability of MbNFs@Zn for decolorization of azo dyes such as Congo red (CR), and Evans blue (EB) was researched at different times, temperatures and concentrations. The decolorization efficiency was found maximum as 92.3 % and 88.4 % for EB and CR dyes, respectively. MbNFs@Zn has perfect properties such as enhanced catalytic performance, high decolorization efficiency, stability and reusability, and can be excellent potential materials for many industrial applications.
Spirocyclic Chromenopyrazole Inhibitors Disrupting the Interaction between the RNA‐Binding Protein LIN28 and Let‐7
Authors: Borgelt Lydia , Huang Fubao , Hohnen Lisa , Qiu Xiaqiu , Goebel Georg L. , Hommen Pascal , Wu Peng
Published: May 2023

Small‐molecule inhibitors of the RNA‐binding and regulating protein LIN28 have the potential to be developed as chemical probes for biological perturbation and as therapeutic candidates. Reported small molecules disrupting the interaction between LIN28 and let‐7 miRNA suffer from moderate to weak inhibitory activity and flat structure‐activity relationship, which hindered the development of next‐generation LIN28 inhibitors that warrant further evaluations. We report herein the identification of new LIN28 inhibitors utilizing a spirocyclization strategy based on a chromenopyrazole scaffold. Representative compounds 2–5 showed potent in vitro inhibitory activity against LIN28‐let‐7 interaction and single‐digit micromolar potency in inhibiting the proliferation of LIN28‐expressing JAR cancer cells. The spirocyclic compound 5 incorporated a position that is amenable for functional group appendage and further structural modifications. The binding mode of compound 5 with the LIN28 cold shock domain was rationalized via a molecular docking analysis.
Loving your children: Quality time, gestures, and affirmations
Authors: Knopf Alison
Published: May 2023

On your busy days it's important to keep in mind that your children need quality time, and that quality isn't the same as quantity. If you don't have a lot of time — and who does — you can still express love, and there's nothing your children need more from you. The loving gestures and affirmations can easily be incorporated into daily routines, the American Academy of Pediatrics reminds parents. This is true for all children, regardless of whether they have disabilities.
Refining the NobleStitch PFO closure technique using an anatomy‐tailored approach
Authors: Poulin Marie‐France , Kavinsky Clifford J.
Published: May 2023

Key Points

Patent foramen ovale (PFO) tunnel width and length can help predict successful closure after NobleStitch.

A maximal tunnel width/shortest length ratio ≤0.61 is a good predictor of a significant (grade 2–3) residual right‐left shunt after a single stitch at follow‐up.

Consideration of using two stitches for patients with large and/or short PFO tunnels should be made at the index procedure.
Smartphone‐Assisted Electrochemical Sensor Based on Mg0.5Co2.5(PO4)2 and Carbon Black for Trace Bisphenol A Detection
Authors: Salhi Ouissal , Oularbi Larbi , Ez‐zine Tarik , El Attar Anas , Chemchoub Sanaa , Aaddane Abdellah , El Rhazi Mama
Published: May 2023

Bisphenol A (BPA) widely recognized as an endocrine disruptor can induce serious threats to human health such as sexual anomalies and cancer. Unfortunately, BPA has been increasingly used since 1950s; specifically during the manufacturing of polycarbonates and plastics such as food containers and water bottles. Thus, there is an urgent need to develop low‐cost, simple, portable and sensitive sensors for in‐situ detection of this contaminant in food and water. The combination of nanostructured carbon materials and metal/metal oxide nanoparticles can result in materials with unique physicochemical properties as well as excellent catalytic behaviors. Herein, we propose a smartphone‐assisted electrochemical sensor based on the combination of Mg0.5Co2.5(PO4)2 and carbon black (CB) modified screen‐printed electrode (SPE) for a rapid and sensitive determination of BPA. Structural characterization confirmed the formation of Mg0.5Co2.5(PO4)2/CB nanocomposite on SPE surface. Very low oxidation potential of BPA was observed during the differential pulse voltammetry (DPV) experiments at 0.16 V vs. Ag/AgCl. The sensor revealed two‐step linear response from 0.5–6.5 μm and from 16.5–100 μm with a lower limit of detection (LOD) of 0.15 μm. A good reproducibility, excellent stability, and high interference‐free ability were obtained. Furthermore, the developed sensor showed satisfactory recoveries for BPA detection in real water samples.
High‐Pressure and High‐Temperature Dion–Jacobson Layered Perovskite Polymorphs of KWO3F
Authors: Zimmerhofer Fabian , Krüger Hannes , Huppertz Hubert
Published: May 2023

Two new Dion–Jacobson layered perovskite polymorphs of the known oxyfluoride compound KWO3F are reported. A high‐pressure modification was synthesized using a multianvil setup and subsequently transformed into a high‐temperature phase at ∼311 °C. The crystal structures of both polymorphs were determined by use of single‐crystal X‐ray diffraction and are described in detail herein. Differential thermal analyses and thermogravimetric analyses were carried out to further investigate the phase transition characteristics. Bond valence (BV) and charge distribution (CHARDI) calculations confirm the occupancy of mixed O|F anion positions, and Rietveld refinements as well as MAPLE calculations support the structure models.
Sex differences in white matter tracts of capuchin monkey brains
Authors: Reilly Olivia T. , Brosnan Sarah F. , Benítez Marcela E. , Phillips Kimberley A. , Hecht Erin E.
Published: May 2023

Nonhuman primates exhibit sexual dimorphism in behavior, suggesting that there could be underlying differences in brain organization and function. Understanding this neuroanatomical variation is critical for enhancing our understanding of the evolution of sex differences in the human brain. Tufted capuchin monkeys (Sapajus [Cebus] apella) represent a phylogenetically diverse taxa of neotropical primates that converge on several behavioral characteristics with humans relevant to social organization, making them an important point of comparison for studying the evolution of sex differences in primates. While anatomical sex differences in gray matter have previously been found in capuchin monkeys, the current study investigates sex differences in white matter tracts. We carried out tract‐based spatial statistical analysis on fractional anisotropy images of tufted capuchin monkeys (15 female, 5 male). We found that females showed significantly higher fractional anisotropy than males in regions of frontal‐parietal white matter in the right cerebral hemisphere. Paralleling earlier findings in gray matter, male and female fractional anisotropy values in these regions were nonoverlapping. This complements prior work pointing toward capuchin sex differences in limbic circuitry and higher‐order visual regions. We propose that these sex differences are related to the distinct socioecological niches occupied by male and female capuchins. Capuchin neuroanatomical sex differences appear to be more pronounced than in humans, which we suggest may relate to human adaptations for prolonged neurodevelopmental trajectories and increased plasticity.
Selection of cowpea (Vigna unguiculata [L.] Walp) accessions resistant to root‐knot nematode
Authors: Silva Thais França , Peixoto Gustavo Henrique Silva , Souza Caio Felipe de Barros , Roberts Philip Alan , Santos Jansen Rodrigo Pereira , Cares Juvenil Enrique
Published: May 2023

Cowpea, Vigna unguiculata, is a legume adapted to regions with a tropical climate and limited water resources, and it has become a basic food source and income generator. Root‐knot nematodes (Meloidogyne spp.) cause substantial damage to the root system, resulting in yield losses. Genetic resistance is one of the most efficient management methods. The objective of this study was to generate information on genetic resistance to Meloidogyne incognita and Meloidogyne javanica of Brazilian cowpea genotypes. For this, 18 accessions of cowpea from the collection of Embrapa Meio‐Norte and six control accessions of cowpea were tested in completely randomized design with six replications, evaluated 60 days after inoculation, and carried out twice in time. To assess root penetration of nematodes and root gall formation in NIL‐CB3‐isoline, which allows reproduction but limits gall formation, nematodes inside the roots were stained with acid fuchsin, after inoculation with 5000 J2, with estimates at 72 h time‐points up to 28 days. None of the 18 accessions from Embrapa showed resistance to M. javanica, but accessions MNC06‐895‐1, MNC04‐14, MNC06‐909‐6, 98, MNCO4‐907‐35, and Am60‐15 showed resistance to M. incognita. There was a reduction in the number and size of galls in the NIL‐CB3 egg isoline, and an increase in formation of males, which are not important for parasitism. Given the importance and prospects for expansion of the cowpea crop throughout Brazil, the results of this study contribute to the knowledge on the reaction of Brazilian cowpea genotypes to the root‐knot nematode.
Board of Directors' characteristics and environmental SDGs adoption: an international study
Authors: Taglialatela Jonathan , Pirazzi Maffiola Kevin , Barontini Roberto , Testa Francesco
Published: May 2023

Drivers of environmentally conscious firm behaviour have gained increasing attention over past decades. The Board of Directors holds a central role in corporate decision‐making, and previous empirical evidence suggests that its characteristics could influence corporate environmental performance. This paper contributes to the literature with the first evidence of the influence certain board characteristics have on whether a firm ultimately supports one or more environmental SDGs. Our focus is on board size, gender diversity, board independence and CEO duality. Logistic and fractional regressions on 4417 globally listed firms highlight that board size, the share of female directors, and the share of independent directors are significant drivers of support for environmental SDGs. The results and insights revealed in this study should be helpful to policymakers, investors and corporations in evaluating the effectiveness of corporate governance characteristics and fostering corporate contributions to the 2030 Agenda.
H8[PV5Mo7O40] – A Unique Polyoxometalate for Acid and RedOx Catalysis: Synthesis, Characterization, and Modern Applications in Green Chemical Processes
Authors: Raabe Jan‐Christian , Poller Maximilian J. , Voß Dorothea , Albert Jakob
Published: May 2023

Polyoxometalates (POMs) are a fascinating group of anionic metal‐oxide clusters with a broad variety of structural properties and several catalytic applications, especially in the conversion of bio‐derived platform chemicals. H8[PV5Mo7O40] (HPA‐5) is a unique POM catalyst that ideally links numerous fascinating research fields for the following reasons: a) HPA‐5 can be synthesized by rational design approaches; b) HPA‐5 can be well characterized using multiple analytical tools explaining its catalytic properties; and c) HPA‐5 is suitable for multiple important catalytic transformations of bio‐based feedstock. This Review combines the fields of synthesis, spectroscopic, electrochemical, and crystallographic characterization of HPA‐5 with those of sustainable catalysis and green chemistry. Selected catalytic applications include esterification, dehydration, and delignification of biomass as well as selective oxidation and fractionation of bio‐based feedstock. The unique HPA‐5 is a fascinating POM that has a broad application scope for biomass valorization.
Computational and experimental analyses of alanine racemase suggest new avenues for developing allosteric small‐molecule antibiotics
Authors: van Wieren Arie , Durrant Jacob D. , Majumdar Sudipta
Published: May 2023

Given the ever‐present threat of antibacterial resistance, there is an urgent need to identify new antibacterial drugs and targets. One such target is alanine racemase (Alr), an enzyme required for bacterial cell‐wall biosynthesis. Alr is an attractive drug target because it is essential for bacterial survival but is absent in humans. Existing drugs targeting Alr lack specificity and have severe side effects. We here investigate alternative mechanisms of Alr inhibition. Alr functions exclusively as an obligate homodimer, so we probed seven conserved interactions on the dimer interface, distant from the enzymatic active site, to identify possible allosteric influences on activity. Using the Alr from Mycobacterium tuberculosis (MT) as a model, we found that the Lys261/Asp135 salt bridge is critical for catalytic activity. The Lys261Ala mutation completely inactivated the enzyme, and the Asp135Ala mutation reduced catalytic activity eight‐fold. Further investigation suggested a potential drug‐binding site near the Lys261/Asp135 salt bridge that may be useful for allosteric drug discovery.
Dolomitisation of carbonate platform margins by fault‐controlled geothermal convection: Insights from coupling stratigraphic and reactive transport models
Authors: Frazer Miles , Hollis Cathy , Whitaker Fiona
Published: May 2023

Reactive transport modelling is increasingly deployed to quantitatively evaluate conceptual models of diagenetic processes. However, construction of models of complex systems involves trade‐offs between accuracy and simplification. This tension is explored for models of fault‐associated dolomitisation by sea water convection in a syn‐rift carbonate platform, evaluating the contribution of incorporating stratigraphic growth and fault propagation. Simulations of the high heat flux southern margin of the Derbyshire Platform (Northern England), with heterogeneous matrix permeability that reflects the evolving stratal architecture and burial compaction focusses dolomitisation in more permeable units at all depths. A permeable platform margin fault zone enhances dolomitisation in a broad area on the upper slope and margin, and to a lesser but significant extent, across the interior as platform top waters are entrained and discharge via the fault. Stepwise simulation of flow and reactions during stratigraphic growth suggests that static models over‐predict dolomite abundance in younger sediments and show how regions optimally supplied with reactants and heat to drive dolomite formation migrate vertically and laterally during platform growth. Dolomitisation intensity increases with depth due to greater time for reactions and kinetically favourable temperatures. Adding the fault zone to this model focusses and accelerates flow, giving a more spatially restricted dolostone body and reducing dolomitisation temperature. Changes in fault connectivity with the surface of the evolving platform shift fluid flow pathways and change the rate and temperature of dolomite formation. Results concur with petrographic, isotopic and geochemical observations of the early dolomite on the Derbyshire Platform. This work demonstrates the importance of understanding diagenesis as the product of an evolving set of processes that respond to geological and palaeoenvironmental changes rather than as a sequence of individual diagenetic events. This is particularly critical for reactions, such as dolomitisation by geothermal convection of sea water, which occur over timescales synchronous with platform development.
Project Body Neutrality: Piloting a digital single‐session intervention for adolescent body image and depression
Authors: Smith Arielle C. , Ahuvia Isaac , Ito Sakura , Schleider Jessica L.
Published: May 2023

Objective

Eating disorders and depression impact youth at alarming rates, yet most adolescents do not access support. Single‐session interventions (SSIs) can reach youth in need. This pilot examines the acceptability and utility of a SSI designed to help adolescents improve functionality appreciation (a component of body neutrality) by focusing on valuing one's body based on the functions it performs, regardless of appearance satisfaction.

Method

Pre‐ to post‐intervention data were collected, and within‐group effect sizes and 95% confidence intervals were computed, to evaluate the immediate effects of the SSI on hopelessness, functionality appreciation, and body dissatisfaction. Patterns of use, demographics, program feedback, and responses from within the SSI were collected.

Results

The SSI and all questionnaires were completed by 75 adolescents (ages: 13–17 years, 74.70% White/Caucasian, 48.00% woman/girl) who reported elevated body image and mood problems. Analyses detected significant pre–post improvements in hopelessness (dav = 0.60, 95% CI: 0.35–0.84; dz = 0.77, 95% CI: 0.51–1.02), functionality appreciation (dav = 0.72, 95% CI: 0.46–0.97; dz = 0.94, 95% CI: 0.67–1.21), and body dissatisfaction (dav = 0.61, 95% CI: 0.36–0.86; dz = 0.76, 95% CI: 0.50–1.02). The SSI was rated as highly acceptable, with a mean overall score of 4.34/5 (SD = 0.54). Qualitative feedback suggested adolescents' endorsement of body neutrality concepts, including functionality appreciation, as personally‐relevant, helpful targets for intervention.

Discussion

This evaluation supports the acceptability and preliminary effectiveness of the Project Body Neutrality SSI for adolescents with body image and mood concerns.

Public Significance

Results suggest the acceptability and utility of a digital, self‐guided, single‐session intervention—Project Body Neutrality—for adolescents experiencing co‐occurring depressive symptoms and body image disturbances. Given the intervention's low cost and inherent scalability, it may be positioned to provide support to youth with limited access to traditional care.
Adaptation of family‐based treatment within an inpatient medical stabilization program for children with eating disorders
Authors: Anderson Katelyn E. , Han Sohyun C. , Kavlich Sarah G. , Brown Shonda , Ho Jennifer , Everhart Samantha A.
Published: May 2023

Objective

Eating disorders are serious psychiatric conditions predominantly affecting children, adolescents, and young adults. While family‐based treatment (FBT) is the gold standard outpatient treatment approach for adolescents with restrictive eating disorders, there is not a universally recognized best practice within higher levels of care. There is a particular dearth of literature detailing recommended psychological and behavioral interventions in the inpatient medical setting.

Method

The present article provides an account of how FBT principles have been incorporated in Children's Hospital of Orange County at Mission's inpatient medical stabilization program for children and adolescents with restrictive eating disorders. Practical examples illustrate how key FBT tenets are successfully translated into the inpatient multidisciplinary setting.

Results

The use of FBT can encourage a unified approach among medical and psychosocial providers and serves to destigmatize patients with eating disorders and associated behaviors. The successes and challenges of FBT implementation are discussed.

Discussion

Though anecdotal evidence and preliminary findings support positive outcomes from the implementation of FBT within a pediatric medical stabilization program for patients, families, and staff, research is needed to understand best practices within higher levels of care. Additional research efforts will also help elucidate whether adapted FBT can become a standard of care for patients with restrictive eating disorders in inpatient settings.

Public Significance

This article describes how a children's hospital has adopted family‐based treatment (FBT) for youth who are hospitalized due to an eating disorder. FBT is the most efficacious treatment for youth with eating disorders. This article describes specific examples of how FBT can be implemented within a medical setting. This article will support a greater understanding of FBT principles and guide providers to translate FBT into higher level of care settings.
Predicting geographic distribution and habitat suitability of Opuntia streptacantha in paleoclimatic, current, and future scenarios in Mexico
Authors: Cruz‐Jiménez Israel , Delgado‐Sánchez Pablo , Guerrero‐González María de la Luz , Puente‐Martínez Raúl , Flores Joel , De‐Nova José Arturo
Published: May 2023

Mexican territory is one of the centers of origin and dispersion of the genus Opuntia, where several of its species have been an important plant resource for people in arid and semiarid zones. Opuntia streptacantha is widely distributed in Mexico; however, precise aspects of its geographic distribution and ecological status are still unknown. Here, we modeled its potential distribution under paleoclimatic, current, and future conditions through maximum entropy and predictions from 824 records and seven environmental variables. Potential distribution of O. streptacantha in the interglacial period was contracted and slightly north than current distribution, with 44,773 km2 of optimal habitat. In other past periods, the central location of potential distribution coincides with the actual current distribution, but the period of the last glacial maximum was characterized by 201 km2 of very suitable habitat, absent in interglacial, current, and future periods. The future model suggests that potential distribution will move toward the south of the Mexican territory. Synthesis and applications. The potential distribution of O. streptacantha can be applied for the conservation and management of the species, and also in the selection of areas with crassicaule scrubs for protection, conservation, and reproduction of species resistant to the hostile conditions of arid and semiarid zones of Mexican territory, where the structure and composition of the vegetation will be affected in the next 100 years.
Application of a deep learning image classifier for identification of Amazonian fishes
Authors: Robillard Alexander J. , Trizna Michael G. , Ruiz‐Tafur Morgan , Dávila Panduro Edgard Leonardo , de Santana C. David , White Alexander E. , Dikow Rebecca B. , Deichmann Jessica L.
Published: May 2023

Given the sharp increase in agricultural and infrastructure development and the paucity of widespread data available to support conservation management decisions, a more rapid and accurate tool for identifying fish fauna in the world's largest freshwater ecosystem, the Amazon, is needed. Current strategies for identification of freshwater fishes require high levels of training and taxonomic expertise for morphological identification or genetic testing for species recognition at a molecular level. To overcome these challenges, we built an image masking model (U‐Net) and a convolutional neural net (CNN) to classify Amazonian fish in photographs. Fish used to generate training data were collected and photographed in tributaries in seasonally flooded forests of the upper Morona River valley in Loreto, Peru in 2018 and 2019. Species identifications in the training images (n = 3068) were verified by expert ichthyologists. These images were supplemented with photographs taken of additional Amazonian fish specimens housed in the ichthyological collection of the Smithsonian's National Museum of Natural History. We generated a CNN model that identified 33 genera of fishes with a mean accuracy of 97.9%. Wider availability of accurate freshwater fish image recognition tools, such as the one described here, will enable fishermen, local communities, and citizen scientists to more effectively participate in collecting and sharing data from their territories to inform policy and management decisions that impact them directly.
Exotic tree species have consistently lower herbivore load in a cross‐Atlantic tree biodiversity experiment
Authors: Berthelot Sylvie , Bauhus Jürgen , Dormann Carsten F. , Gravel Dominique , Messier Christian , Nock Charles A. , Paquette Alain , Reich Peter B. , Fründ Jochen
Published: May 2023

It is commonly expected that exotic plants experience reduced herbivory, but experimental evidence for such enemy release is still controversial. One reason for conflicting results might be that community context has rarely been accounted for, although the surrounding plant diversity may moderate enemy release. Here, we tested the effects of focal tree origin and surrounding tree diversity on herbivore abundance and leaf damage in a cross‐Atlantic tree‐diversity experiment in Canada and Germany. We evaluated six European tree species paired with six North American congeners in both their native and exotic range, expecting lower herbivory for the exotic tree species in each pair at each site. Such reciprocal experiments have long been called for, but have not been realized thus far. In addition to a thorough evaluation of overall enemy release effects, we tested whether enemy release effects changed with the surrounding tree diversity. Herbivore abundance was indeed consistently lower on exotics across all six tree genera (12 comparisons). This effect of exotic status was independent of the continent, phylogenetic relatedness, and surrounding tree diversity. In contrast, leaf damage associated with generalist leaf chewers was consistently higher on North American tree species. Interestingly, several species of European weevils were the most abundant leaf chewers on both continents and the dominant herbivores at the Canadian site. Thus, most observed leaf damage is likely to reflect the effect of generalist herbivores that feed heavily on plant species with which they have not evolved. At the German site, sap suckers were the dominant herbivores and showed a pattern consistent with enemy release. Taken together, the consistently lower herbivory on exotics on both continents is not purely a pattern of enemy release in the strictest sense, but to some degree additionally reflects the susceptibility of native plants to invasive herbivores. In conclusion, our cross‐Atlantic study is consistent with the idea that nonnative trees have generally reduced herbivory, regardless of tree community diversity and species identity, but for different reasons depending on the dominant herbivore guild.
Movement drives population dynamics of one of the most mobile ungulates on Earth: Insights from a mechanistic model
Authors: Stratmann Theresa S. M. , Forrest Matthew , Traylor Wolfgang , Dejid Nandintsetseg , Olson Kirk A. , Mueller Thomas , Hickler Thomas
Published: May 2023

Long‐distance movements are hypothesized to positively influence population size and stability of mobile species. We tested this hypothesis with a novel modeling approach in which moving herbivores interact with the environment created by a dynamic global vegetation model using highly mobile Mongolian gazelles in the eastern Mongolian grasslands as a case study. Gazelle population dynamics were modeled from 1901 to 2018 under two scenarios, one allowing free movement and one restricting movement. Gazelles were 2.2 times more abundant when they could move freely and were extirpated in 71% of the study area when mobility was restricted. Mobility resulted in greater population increases during times of abundant forage and smaller population decreases during drought. Reduced thermoregulatory costs associated with climate change, combined with an increase in vegetation biomass, increased gazelle abundance. Since high abundances often resulted in overgrazing and, thus, extirpation when movement was restricted, mobility had an important role in maintaining higher densities. The novel modeling approach shows how accounting for not just herbivore but also plant ecophysiology can improve our understanding of the population dynamics of highly mobile herbivores, in particular when examining the effects of habitat and climate change. Since the model simulates herbivores based on general physiological mechanisms that apply across large herbivores and the vegetation model can be applied globally, it is possible to adapt the model to other large‐herbivore systems.