bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Phosphorescence by Trapping Defects in Boric Acid Induced by Thermal Processing
Authors: Stagi Luigi , Malfatti Luca , Zollo Alessia , Livraghi Stefano , Carboni Davide , Chiriu Daniele , Corpino Riccardo , Ricci Pier Carlo , Cappai Antonio , Carbonaro Carlo Maria , Enzo Stefano , Khaleel Abbas , Adamson Abdulmuizz , Gervais Christel , Falqui Andrea , Innocenzi Plinio
Published: November 2023

The phosphorescence of boric acid (BA, H3BO3) at room temperature is a puzzling phenomenon subject to controversial interpretations although the role of structural defects has not yet been considered. Heat treatments of boric acid cause its transformation into the metaboric phase and amorphous boron oxide (B2O3). The structural changes after thermal processing can create defects that become centers of luminescence and recombination channels in the visible range. In the present work, commercial boric acid is thermally processed at different temperatures. Samples treated between 200 and 400 °C exhibit remarkable phosphorescence in the visible range. At ≈480 and 528 nm, two distinct phosphorescent emissions occur, associated with trapped charge carriers recombinations identified by thermoluminescence (TL) and electron paramagnetic resonance spectroscopy (EPR). The structural and optical studies suggest that the activation of boric acid phosphorescence after heat treatment is correlated with the presence of defects. The afterglow results from a trapping and detrapping process, which delays the recombination at the active optical centers. Time‐dependent density functional study (DFT) of defective BOH molecules and clusters shows the emergence of near UV and blue optical transitions in absorption. These defects trigger the photoluminescence in thermally processed boric acid samples.
“Bobbit Worm”‐Inspired Soft Adaptive Grasper with Self‐Generated Triboelectric Force Sensor
Authors: Zhu Zhisen , Dai Keren , Wang Mingchuan , Jiang Liangjing , Bian Leixiang , Zhang Wenling , Tian Yu
Published: November 2023

Soft actuators can realize delicate adaptive grasping of fragile and irregularly shaped objects, which are essential in biological and engineering systems. Yet, critical concerns in the frontier soft graspers are insufficient grasping ability and functional limitations. Here, we propose a Bobbit worm‐inspired multimodal‐sensing adaptive soft grasper (MSASG) enabled by harnessing the Miura‐origami skeleton integrated with self‐generated triboelectric force sensors (TFSs). The Miura‐origami skeleton endows the soft grasper a high grasping force while provides an energy‐efficient way to passively embrace an object without extra energy input. A multimodal TFSs with tactile sensing (TFS‐1) and pressure‐feedback (TFS‐2) functions is constructed by directly packaging a pyramid‐pattern elastic film on the Miura‐origami skeleton. The MSASG implement fast grasping or releasing action by evaluating pressures of various approaching prey, including hermit crabs, crickets, and beetle, etc. And its sensitivity greater than 0.18 V mN−1. In particular, the grasping performances and triboelectric sensing capacity can be optimized by modulating topological parameters (crease length, and surface film thickness, etc.), using a combination of theoretical modeling, finite element simulations, and experiments. The bionic design of soft graspers broadens the future applications for versatile human‐robot‐environment interaction scenarios, such as adaptive robots, reconfigurable architectures, medical devices, and deep‐sea explorations.
In Situ Formed Amorphous Bismuth Sulfide Cathodes with a Self‐Controlled Conversion Storage Mechanism for High Performance Hybrid Ion Batteries
Authors: Zhang Wei , Sun Yuanhe , Ren Zhiguo , Zhao Yuanxin , Yao Zeying , Lei Qi , Si Jingying , Li Zhao , Ren Xiaochuan , Li Xiaolong , Li Aiguo , Wen Wen , Zhu Daming
Published: November 2023

Conversion‐type electrodes offer a promising multielectron transfer alternative to intercalation hosts with potentially high‐capacity release in batteries. However, the poor cycle stability severely hinders their application, especially in aqueous multivalence‐ion systems, which can fundamentally impute to anisotropic ion diffusion channel collapse in pristine crystals and irreversible bond fracture during repeated conversion. Here, an amorphous bismuth sulfide (a‐BS) formed in situ with unprecedentedly self‐controlled moderate conversion Cu2+ storage is proposed to comprehensively regulate the isotropic ion diffusion channels and highly reversible bond evolution. Operando synchrotron X‐ray diffraction and substantive verification tests reveal that the total destruction of the Bi─S bond and unsustainable deep alloying are fully restrained. The amorphous structure with robust ion diffusion channels, unique self‐controlled moderate conversion, and high electrical conductivity discharge products synergistically boosts the capacity (326.7 mAh g−1 at 1 A g−1), rate performance (194.5 mAh g−1 at 10 A g−1), and long‐lifespan stability (over 8000 cycles with a decay rate of only 0.02 ‰ per cycle). Moreover, the a‐BS Cu2+‖Zn2+ hybrid ion battery can well supply a stable energy density of 238.6 Wh kg−1 at 9760 W kg−1. The intrinsically high‐stability conversion mechanism explored on amorphous electrodes provides a new opportunity for advanced aqueous storage.
Designing Polymer Electrolytes via Ring‐Opening Polymerization for Advanced Lithium Batteries
Authors: Wang Shi , Zhang Lei , Zeng Qinghui , Guan Jiazhu , Gao Haiqi , Zhang Liaoyun , Zhong Jin , Lai Wen‐Yong , Wang Qian
Published: November 2023

Replacing liquid electrolytes with solid‐state polymer electrolytes (SPEs) can solve the safety hazards of Li metal batteries (LMBs) while increasing their energy density. However, there has been limited success so far in preparing advanced SPEs with controllable molecular structure and chemical composition, posing great obstacles to further promoting its application in LMBs. Recently, ring‐opening polymerization (ROP), including cationic ROP, anionic ROP, and ring‐opening metathesis polymerization, has become a dazzling new star in achieving SPEs due to its mild polymerization conditions and controllable chemical composition (molecular structure, functional group), etc. Besides, there is no small molecule released during the polymerization process, which means reduced interfacial side reaction. Hence, in this review, the merits of ROP in preparing SPEs and its mechanism as well as interfering factors, etc are evaluated from the perspective of synthetic chemistry. Furthermore, the review focuses on outlining the existing cases related to ROP as much as possible and summarize them from different ring structures (from triple ring to multivariate ring) and polymerization methods, hoping to provide a comprehensive understanding and serve as strategic guidance for designing high‐performance SPEs. Challenges and opportunities regarding this burgeoning field are also discussed at the end.
Optimizing the cask effect in multicomponent natural gas purification to provide high methane productivity
Authors: Chen Yuxin , Jiang Yunjia , Li Jiahao , Hong Xianghao , Ni Haofei , Wang Lingyao , Ma Nan , Tong Mingman , Krishna Rajamani , Zhang Yuanbin
Published: November 2023

The efficient separation of CH4 from natural gas containing C2H6 and C3H8 impurities is an important topic. Previous work on the separation of CH4/C2H6/C3H8 mixtures often focuses on the C3H8/CH4 selectivity, inadvertently sidelining the critical importance of C2H6/CH4 selectivity. This oversight results in reduced CH₄ productivity and compromised separation efficiency, a phenomenon often termed as the “cask effect.” Herein, we fine‐tune the interrelationship between thermodynamics and kinetics, targeting enhanced CH4 production. A synergistic thermodynamic–kinetic C3H8/CH4 and C2H6/CH4 selectivity is achieved using dynamic breakthrough experiments, underpinned by the stable metal–organic framework TIFSIX‐Cu‐TPA. The CH4 productivity in TIFSIX‐Cu‐TPA is up to 5 mmol g−1, surpassing most of the popular materials. Detailed density functional theory and molecular dynamics computational insights reveal a counteractive thermodynamic–kinetic relationship, proving pivotal for the simultaneous breakthrough of C2H6 and C3H8 under optimal conditions. Moreover, precise adsorption sites of C2H6 and C3H8 are clearly determined through in situ single‐crystal structures.
Not just females and males: Unravelling the complex sex determinism of the hemp palm, Trachycarpus fortunei
Authors: Jousson Antoine , Naciri Yamama , Christe Camille , Marazzi Brigitte , Stauffer Fred
Published: November 2023

Premise

The ornamental Asian palm Trachycarpus fortunei (Arecaceae: Coryphoideae) is widely planted in temperate regions. In Europe, it has spread outside of gardens, particularly on the southern side of the Alps. Sexual expression in the species is complex, varying from dioecy to polygamy. This study investigated (1) sexual floral development and (2) genetic markers implicated in sex determinism.

Methods

The morphology and anatomy of floral organs at different developmental stages were studied using SEM observations and anatomical section. Sex determinism was explored using a genome‐wide association study approach, searching for correlations between 31,000 single‐nucleotide polymorphisms and sex affiliation of 122 palms from 21 wild populations.

Results

We observed that sexual differentiation appears late in floral development of T. fortunei. Morpho‐anatomical characters of flowers conducive to panmixia were observed, such as well‐differentiated septal nectaries that are thought to promote cross‐pollination. At the molecular level, homozygous and heterozygous allelic systems with closely linked regions were found for sex determinism in individuals with female and “dominant‐male” phenotypes, respectively. Through our wide sampling in the southern Alps, the closely linked genetic regions in males suggest that at least fifteen percent of wild palms are the direct offspring of “males” that can also produce fertile pistillate flowers.

Conclusions

Trachycarpus fortunei is a further example of unstable sexual expression found in the family Arecaceae and represents an evolutionary path towards an XY genetic system. Our structural and genetic results may explain the high species dispersal ability in the southern Alps.
Differential sex‐association between PCSK1 polymorphisms and obesity risk in Portuguese children
Authors: Manco Licínio , Albuquerque David , Aranda Beatriz , Rodrigues Daniela , Machado‐Rodrigues Aristides M. , Padez Cristina
Published: November 2023

Objectives

The proprotein convertase subtilisin/Kexin type 1 gene (PCSK1) is implicated in hypothalamic appetite control. Several studies have addressed the relationship between PCSK1 polymorphisms and obesity, although conflicting results were observed. We tested the potential association of four PCSK1 variants with the risk of overweight/obesity and related variables in Portuguese children.

Methods

This is a case–control study, where four PCSK1 variants, rs6230 (c.−101T>C), rs6232 (p.N221D), rs6235 (p.S690T), and rs3811942 (c.*265T>C), were analyzed in Portuguese children (aged 5–13 years‐old). Anthropometric measures were objectively collected and used to provide weight‐for‐age, height‐for‐age, and body mass index (BMI) for age. The indices generated were compared to standard reference values of WHO to obtain the corresponding Z‐scores.

Results

Logistic regression, in the dominant model, revealed no significant associations between the four individual PCSK1 variants and the risk of overweight/obesity in the total population. However, stratifying the sample by sex, a marginally significant association was found between the rs6235 minor C‐allele and increased overweight/obesity in boys (n = 345) (OR 1.55 [1.01–2.38] p = .044), but not in girls (n = 340) (OR 0.73 [0.46–1.14] p = .169). Consistently, boys with genotype GG presented lower BMI Z‐score (0.62) when compared to those with the genotypes GC + CC (1.04). Testing for different effects in males versus females, a significant interaction was found between the rs6235 polymorphism and sex for BMI Z‐score (p = .025).

Conclusions

Results of this study suggest for a sex‐differentiated association between PCSK1 rs6235 and overweight/ obesity in Portuguese children.
Synthesis of N‐Acylsulfenamides from (Hetero)Aryl Iodides and Boronic Acids by One‐Pot Sulfur‐Arylation and Dealkylation
Authors: Greenwood Nathaniel S. , Cerny Nicholas P. , Deziel Anthony P. , Ellman Jonathan A.
Published: November 2023

A general one‐pot approach to diverse N‐acylsulfenamides from a common S‐phenethylsulfenamide starting material is reported. This approach was demonstrated by C−S bond formation utilizing commercially abundant (hetero)aryl iodides and boronic acids to provide sulfilimine intermediates that undergo thermal elimination of styrene. In contrast, all prior approaches to N‐acylsulfenamides rely on thiol inputs to introduce sulfenamide S‐substituents. A broad scope of reaction inputs was demonstrated including for approved drugs and drug precursors with dense display of functionality. Several different types of sulfur functionalization were performed on a sulfenamide derived from a complex precursor of the blockbuster anticoagulant drug apixaban, highlighting the utility of this approach for the introduction of high oxidation state sulfur groups in complex bioactive compounds. Mechanistic studies established that the key styrene elimination step proceeds by a concerted elimination that does not require reagents or catalysts, and therefore, this one‐pot approach should be applicable to the synthesis of N‐acylsulfenamides utilizing diverse electrophiles and reaction conditions for C−S bond formation.
Stereocontrolled Synthesis of α‐3‐Deoxy‐d‐manno‐oct‐2‐ulosonic Acid (α‐Kdo) Glycosides Using C3‐p‐Tolylthio‐Substituted Kdo Donors: Access to Highly Branched Kdo Oligosaccharides
Authors: Sun Ao , Li Zipeng , Wang Yuchao , Meng Shuai , Zhang Xiao , Meng Xiangbao , Li Shuchun , Li Zhongtang , Li Zhongjun
Published: November 2023

3‐Deoxy‐d‐manno‐oct‐2‐ulosonic acid (Kdo) is an eight‐carbon monosaccharide found widely in bacterial lipopolysaccharides (LPSs) and capsule polysaccharides (CPSs). We developed an indirect method for the stereoselective synthesis of α‐Kdo glycosides with a C3‐p‐tolylthio‐substituted Kdo phosphite donor. The presence of the p‐tolylthio group enhanced the reactivity, suppressed the formation of elimination by‐products (2,3‐enes), and provided complete α‐stereocontrol. A variety of Kdo α‐glycosides were synthesized by our method in excellent yields (up to 98 %). After glycosylation, the p‐tolylthio group can be efficiently removed by free‐radical reduction. Subsequently, the orthogonality of the phosphite donor and thioglycoside donor was demonstrated by the one‐pot synthesis of a trisaccharide in Helicobacter pylori and Neisseria meningitidis LPS. Moreover, an efficient total synthesis route to the challenging 4,5‐branched Kdo trisaccharide in LPSs from several A. baumannii strains was highlighted. To demonstrate the high reactivity of our approach further, the highly crowded 4,5,7,8‐branched Kdo pentasaccharide was synthesized as a model molecule for the first time. Additionally, the reaction mechanism was investigated by DFT calculations.
Sulfonium Cation in the Service of π‐Acid Catalysis**
Authors: Li Ruiping , Zafar Mohammad , Danovich David , Subramaniyan Vasudevan , Tibika Françoise , Tulchinsky Yuri
Published: November 2023

While still rare, cationic ligands offer much promise as tunable electron‐withdrawing ligands for π‐acid catalysis. Recently, we introduced pincer‐type sulfonium cations into the list of available strongly π‐acidic ancillary ligands. However, the M−S bond in sulfonium complexes of these ligands was found highly labile, precluding their catalytic applications. Herein we demonstrate that this obstacle can be overcome by increasing the rigidity of the sulfonium pincer scaffold. X‐ray analyses confirm that despite bearing a formal positive charge, the sulfur atom of this newly designed sulfonium ligand maintains its coordination to the Pt(II)‐center, while DFT calculations indicate that by doing so it strongly enhances the electrophilic character of the metal. Kinetic studies carried out on three model cycloisomerization reactions prove that such a tris‐cationic sulfonium‐Pt(II) complex is highly reactive, compared to its thioether‐based analogue. This proof‐of‐concept study presents the first example of employing sulfonium‐based ligands in homogeneous catalysis.
An Electrolyte with Less Space‐Occupying Diluent at Cathode Inner Helmholtz Plane for Stable 4.6 V Lithium‐Ion Batteries
Authors: Fang Mingming , Du Bingyuan , Zhang Xinran , Dong Xubing , Yue Xinyang , Liang Zheng
Published: November 2023

Reasonably elevating the working voltage (≥4.4 V vs. Li/Li+) of the cathode is one of the efficient approaches to maximize the energy density of lithium‐ion batteries (LIBs). As a preferred partner for high‐voltage LIB systems, localized high‐concentration electrolyte (LHCE), characterized by a stronger Li solvation structure, less free solvent, and robust electrode/electrolyte interphase has attracted much attention in academic circles. Herein, we systematically studied the role of the diluent in LHCE on the formation of the cathode electrolyte interphase (CEI) and elucidated that the existing anion‐diluent pairing in the inner Helmholtz plane (IHP) results in an uneven CEI and subsequent battery degradation under high voltage. A m‐fluorotoluene (mFT) diluent was further employed in the LHCE containing lithium difluoro(oxalato)borate (LiDFOB) to facilitate a uniform and rich‐anion‐derived CEI, since the weaker interaction of HmFT−BDFOB−, as compared to the HHhydrofluoroether−BDFOB−, reduces the influence of mFT in IHP or initial CEI formation. Consequently, the mFT‐dominated LHCE propels the high‐voltage performance of LIBs one step forward, endowing a 4.6 V‐class 1.2‐Ah graphite||LiNi0.8Co0.1Mn0.1O2 pouch cells a 90.4 % capacity retention after 130 cycles. Our study thus describes a new index affecting the CEI formation and proposes novel strategies to deeply optimize the high‐voltage LIBs.
Several biological properties and synthesis of 2‐(4‐methylthiazol‐5‐yl) ethoxy substitute zinc phthalocyanine
Authors: Solğun Derya Güngördü , Özdemir Sadin , Dündar Abdurrahman , Ağırtaş Mehmet Salih
Published: November 2023

In this study, 4‐(2‐(4‐methylthiazol‐5‐yl) ethoxy) phthalonitrile (3) and zinc phthalocyanine complex (4) were synthesized and characterized. UV–vis and fluorescence spectra, aggregation, and fluorescence parameters of the zinc phthalocyanine compound were investigated. As biological properties, DPPH radical capture, antidiabetic, DNA cutting, antimicrobial, photodynamic antimicrobial, anti‐biofilm activities, and microbial cell viability parameters of the compounds were determined. The highest antioxidant activity was found as 62.80% at 100 mg/L concentration with compound 4, and compound 4 also showed the best antidiabetic activity as 65.17% at 400 mg/L concentration. In DNA cutting activity, it was determined that 3 and 4 cut DNA at all concentrations. For compounds 3–4, the minimum inhibitory concentration (MIC) values were found to be 32 and 16 mg/L for Enterococcus hirae and Enterococcus feacalis, respectively. The strongest MIC value of photodynamic antimicrobial activity was achieved as 4 mg/L for E. feacalis with 4. It was observed that both compounds inhibited the microbial viability activity of Escherichia coli by 100% at concentrations of 100 mg/L. Compound 4 inhibited biofilms of Pseudomonas aureginosa and Staphylococcus aureus as 92.48% and 98.56% at 50 mg/L concentration, respectively.
Efficient Analysis of Interdependencies in Electrode Manufacturing Through Joint Application of Design of Experiments and Explainable Machine Learning
Authors: Haghi Sajedeh , Keilhofer Josef , Schwarz Nico , He Pengdan , Daub Rüdiger
Published: November 2023

Battery cell production is a key contributor to achieving a net‐zero future. A comprehensive understanding of the various process steps and their interdependencies is essential for speeding up the commercialization of newly developed materials and optimizing production processes. While several approaches have been employed to analyze and understand the complexity of the process chain and its interdependencies – ranging from expert‐ and simulation‐based to data‐driven – the latter holds significant potential for real‐time application. This is particularly relevant for inline process control and optimization. To streamline the development and implementation of data‐driven models, a holistic framework that encompasses all necessary steps – from identification of relevant parameters and generation of data to development of models – is imperative. This article aims to address this objective by presenting a comprehensive and systematic methodology, demonstrated for efficient cross‐process analysis in electrode manufacturing. Through the combined utilization of design of experiments methods, data‐driven models, and explainable machine learning methods, the interdependencies between production parameters and the physical, mechanical, and electrochemical characteristics of the electrodes were uncovered. These actionable insights are essential for enabling informed decision‐making, facilitating the selection of appropriate process parameters, and ultimately optimizing the production process.
Popular boys, the ideal schoolboy, and blended patterns of masculinity for 10‐ to 11‐year‐olds in two London schools
Authors: Swain Jon
Published: November 2023

Generating data from small group interviews with 41 boys aged 10–11 years from two London schools in 2022, this paper contributes to the field of gender by introducing a new form of non‐hegemonic and positive masculinity, which I am calling ‘blended’ masculinity, and which was the most common formation in each school. Although its features differed a little in each setting, this blended formulation broadly consisted of orthodox qualities of masculinity (e.g. athleticism, assertiveness, confidence, independence), combined with feminine‐associated traits (e.g. kindness, caring, sociability, emotional literacy). I argue that this blended form is different from previous conceptualisations of hybrid masculinity in the gender literature and is more akin to recent conceptions of hybrid femininity. There were no dominant forms of masculinity with hierarchical connotations of superiority, and no hegemony that legitimated unequal relations, with obvious subordination of other masculinities or femininities. Boys and girls generally got on well with each other and there was also no evidence of homophobia or misogyny. The paper also explores notions of peer‐group popularity, which was based on a series of resources, and delineates the characteristics of a fictional, ‘ideal’, schoolboy, whose features and attributes were connected to the different versions of masculinity on show.
Identification of the absorbed constituents and metabolites of Huangqi Guizhi Wuwu decoction by ultrahigh‐performance liquid chromatography coupled with quadrupole time‐of‐flight mass spectrometry
Authors: Fan Zhuoyu , Li Lele , Cui Yue , Tang Xinmiao , Shen Guanghai , Feng Bo , Guan Jiao , Zhu Heyun
Published: November 2023

Huangqi Guizhi Wuwu decoction (HGWWD) is a widely used traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) preparation for the treatment of ischemic stroke and diabetes peripheral neuropathy. However, the material basis for the efficacy of HGWWD remains unclear. In this study, a rapid, sensitive and selective ultrahigh‐performance liquid chromatography coupled with quadrupole time‐of‐flight mass spectrometry (UHPLC–Q‐TOF–MS) method was developed to separate and identify the absorbed components and metabolites of HGWWD in rat plasma after oral administration for the first time. By comparing the retention time, high‐resolution mass spectrometry primary and secondary mass spectrometry data of blank plasma and drug‐containing plasma, a total of 42 constituents, including 24 prototype compounds and 18 metabolites, were identified or tentatively characterized. The results indicated that monoterpenes, flavonoids, organic acids, amino acids, gingerols and alkaloids were main prototype compounds in rat plasma, and flavonoid‐related metabolites, organic acid‐related metabolites and gingerol‐related metabolites were major metabolites. It is concluded the developed UHPLC–Q‐TOF–MS method with high sensitivity and resolution is suitable for identifying and characterizing the absorbed components and metabolites of HGWWD, and the results will provide important data for further study on the relationship between the chemical constituents and pharmacological activities of HGWWD.
Cross‐cultural adaptation of Nepalese literacy and stigma of suicide scales (LOSS‐SF‐Nep and SOSS‐SF‐Nep) among Nepalese medical and nursing students
Authors: Gupta Anoop Krishna , Sharma Rakhi , Sah Ram Prakash , Sharma Subodh , Jha Ashish , Chapagai Manisha , Saeed Fahimeh , Shoib Sheikh
Published: November 2023

Introduction: Nepal is a country in South‐east Asia with high suicide. There is ongoing trend of emerging research on suicide from Nepal but there is lack of validated scale in measuring literacy or stigma. In the view of poor media reporting and large treatment gap, this study was conducted. All previous validation studies were done in non‐Hindu populations.

Methods: A cross‐sectional study was planned where the short forms of Nepalese literacy of suicide scale (LOSS‐SF‐Nep) and Stigma of Suicide Scale (SOSS‐SF‐Nep) were validated using standard procedure at a medical college in southern Nepal. Medical and nursing students of all batches were approached offline after successful pretesting. The psychometric properties of the scales were tested, and the statuses of literacy and stigma were assessed. Patient Health Questionnaire‐9 and General Anxiety Disorder Scale‐7 were used for revealing depression and generalized anxiety.

Results: Three hundred and nineteen Nepalese students participated and most of them were males, belonged to nuclear family, upper‐middle socioeconomic status and represented 46 out of 77 districts of Nepal. The mean score of LOSS‐SF‐Nep was 6.36 ± 1.92 and literacy ranged from 37.9% to 89.7%. The deeper exposure to suicidal patients was associated with better literacy. Factor analysis of SOSS‐SF‐Nep revealed three subscales: stigmatization, isolation/depression, and normalization/glorification and had acceptable psychometric properties. Gender, occupation of head of the family, region and years of education, using mental health services, and depression were associated with variable literacy or stigma.

Conclusion: Literacy and stigma scales were validated in Nepali, and SOSS factor structures were revealed with modified descriptors. The literacy and stigma levels in medical students were calculated for the first time in Nepal and Hindu majority population.
Four New Pentacyclic Triterpene Glycosides Isolated from the Fruits of Cryptolepis buchananii R.Br. ex Roem. & Schult and Their Inhibition of NO Production in LPS‐activated RAW264.7 Cells
Authors: Duc Duy Nguyen , Anh Bang Ngo , Hai Yen Pham , Thi Trang Do , Thi Nha Trang Bui , Thi Kim Thuy Nguyen , Thi Cuc Nguyen , Xuan Nhiem Nguyen , Van Kiem Phan , Khac Ban Ninh , Huu Tai Bui
Published: November 2023

From the methanol extract of the Cryptolepis buchananii fruits, four undescribed pentacyclic triterpenene glycosides (1–4) and five known pentacyclic triterpenenes (5–9) were isolated. Their structures were determined to be uncargenin C 28‐O‐α‐L‐rhamnopyranosyl‐(1→2)‐β‐D‐glucopyranosyl ester (1), 3‐O‐β‐D‐glucopyranosyluncargenin C 28‐O‐α‐L‐rhamnopyranosyl‐(1→2)‐β‐D‐glucopyranosyl ester (2), 3‐O‐β‐D‐glucopyranosyl‐(1→6)‐β‐D‐glucopyranosyl‐6β,23‐dihydroxyursolic acid 28‐O‐α‐L‐rhamnopyranosyl‐(1→2)‐β‐D‐glucopyranosyl ester (3), 3‐O‐β‐D‐glucopyranosyl‐(1→2)‐β‐D‐glucopyranosylasiatic acid 28‐O‐α‐L‐rhamnopyranosyl‐(1→2)‐β‐D‐glucopyranosyl ester (4), asiatic acid (5), 2α,3β,23‐trihydroxyoleana‐11,13(18)‐dien‐28‐oic acid (6), arjunolic acid (7), 6β‐hydroxyarjunolic acid (8), and actinidic acid (9) based on analyses of their HR‐ESI‐MS, 1D and 2D NMR spectra. All the isolates showed significantly NO production inhibition in LPS‐activated RAW264.7 cells with the IC50 values ranging from 18.79 to 37.57 μM, compared to that of the positive control compound, dexamethasone, which showed IC50 value of 14.05 μM.
Physicochemical and functional properties of fermented pea and navy bean protein isolates
Authors: Khorsandi Azita , Stone Andrea K. , Shi Dai , Xu Caishuang , Das Prem P. , Lu Yuping , Rajagopalan Nandhakishore , Tanaka Takuji , Korber Darren R. , Nickerson Michael T.
Published: November 2023

Background and Objectives

There has been a significant increase in the use of fermentation for protein modification by the food industry. This research aimed to investigate the use of solid‐state fermentation (SSF) by Aspergillus oryzae NRRL 5590 on pea and navy bean protein isolates (PPI and NBPI, respectively) to enhance their physicochemical and functional properties.

Findings

The impact of fermentation was more profound on PPI than NBPI with a higher degree of hydrolysis achieved for the former (9.3% vs. 4.4%). Fermented PPI had significantly increased protein content, surface charge and hydrophobicity, solubility, and foaming properties, but decreased emulsion stability. For NBPI, modifications were only observed for surface hydrophobicity and water hydration capacity (WHC), which both increased after fermentation. Overall, navy bean proteins were less susceptible to protein hydrolysis than pea proteins upon fermentation, possibly due to the phaseolin protein in navy bean.

Conclusions

In summary, fermentation may be used to enhance the solubility and foaming properties of PPI and WHC of NBPI for their use as ingredients in applications where such higher functionalities are favorable.

Significance and Novelty

The results provide insights into pulse protein modification by bioprocessing, specifically fermentation, and opportunities for potential value‐added applications for pea and navy bean proteins.
The endoscopic treatment of fourth ventricle outlet obstruction: Report of two children and systematic review
Authors: Mulhem Ali , Alsulaiman Abdul Masih , Hammersen Stefanie , Kantelhardt Sven
Published: November 2023

Key Clinical Message

Fourth ventricle outlet obstruction (FVOO) is a rare cause of hydrocephalus. In the last century, the standard treatment was the suboccipital craniotomy with magendieplasty or ventriculoperitoneal shunt (VP shunt). Since the beginning of the 21st century, the endoscopic third ventriculostomy (ETV) has been considered a less invasive alternative. The medical literature lacks sufficient reports of FVOO cases and strong evidence about ETV's efficacy in treating this condition. We report two cases of FVOO treated with ETV and review published similar cases. Clinical and radiological findings of two FVOO cases with outcomes after ETV were presented. Moreover, we conducted a systematic review after protocol registration in PROSPERO (CRD42021281474). MEDLINE, Embase, Scopus, and Web of Science were searched from inception till December 31, 2022. Studies were included if they reported cases of FVOO treated initially with ETV. Cases with Chiari malformation, Dandy‐Walker malformation, tuberous sclerosis, trapped fourth ventricle, or space‐occupying lesions were excluded. Two reviewers independently examined title/abstract records in the first stage and full‐text publications in the second for eligibility. The primary outcome was the recurrence rate, defined by the need for re‐ETV or other invasive treatments (e.g., VP shunt or magendieplasty). Other outcomes included clinical state at follow‐up and mortality. Two cases, a 3‐year‐old male and 3.5‐year‐old female, with FVOO, were treated with ETV in our department by the same neurosurgeon (SH) in 2013 and 2021. Both cases improved significantly after ETV, and there was no recurrence through the follow‐up. Besides the present cases, we found 57 other cases of FVOO treated with ETV reported in 17 studies between 2001 and 2021. The median age was 26 years, with an IQR from 2.4 to 59 years, and 56% of cases were females. The recurrence rate was 32% in the sample (19 out of 59), with a 95% CI from 21% to 46%. The median time to recure was 2 months with IQR from 1.25 to 26. A VP shunt was the treatment for recurrence in 68% and a re‐ETV in 32%. At the follow‐up (41 ± 29 months), only one case died, and one deteriorated clinically. FVOO is a rare cause of hydrocephalus encountered mainly in the first or sixth decades of life. ETV provides the first reasonable treatment. Despite the moderate recurrence rate, the outcomes are favorable.
Genetic depletion does not prevent rapid evolution in island‐introduced lizards
Authors: Sherpa Stéphanie , Paris Josephine R. , Silva‐Rocha Iolanda , Di Canio Viola , Carretero Miguel Angel , Ficetola Gentile Francesco , Salvi Daniele
Published: November 2023

Experimental introductions of species have provided some of the most tractable examples of rapid phenotypic changes, which may reflect plasticity, the impact of stochastic processes, or the action of natural selection. Yet to date, very few studies have investigated the neutral and potentially adaptive genetic impacts of experimental introductions. We dissect the role of these processes in shaping the population differentiation of wall lizards in three Croatian islands (Sušac, Pod Kopište, and Pod Mrčaru), including the islet of Pod Mrčaru, where experimentally introduced lizards underwent rapid (~30 generations) phenotypic changes associated with a shift from an insectivorous to a plant‐based diet. Using a genomic approach (~82,000 ddRAD loci), we confirmed a founder effect during introduction and very low neutral genetic differentiation between the introduced population and its source. However, genetic depletion did not prevent rapid population growth, as the introduced lizards exhibited population genetic signals of expansion and are known to have reached a high density. Our genome‐scan analysis identified just a handful of loci showing large allelic shifts between ecologically divergent populations. This low overall signal of selection suggests that the extreme phenotypic differences observed among populations are determined by a small number of large‐effect loci and/or that phenotypic plasticity plays a major role in phenotypic changes. Nonetheless, functional annotation of the outlier loci revealed some candidate genes relevant to diet‐induced adaptation, in agreement with the hypothesis of directional selection. Our study provides important insights on the evolutionary potential of bottlenecked populations in response to new selective pressures on short ecological timescales.
Biogeography and environmental preferences of Butia yatay (Mart.) Becc
Authors: Silva G. Carolina , Solís Neffa Viviana Griselda , Zuquim Gabriela , Balslev Henrik
Published: November 2023

During the Quaternary, Chaco Phytogeographic Domain (Chaco) flora in subtropical South America experienced temperature and humidity fluctuations, primarily driven by wind dynamics, leading to significant shifts in species distribution. The palm Butia yatay is endemic to the Chaco and thrives in areas characterized by a warm–rainy climate and mostly restricted to sandy soils. To investigate the current geographic distribution of suitable habitat for B. yatay while assessing the significance of soil variables, we employed two distinct algorithms in species distribution modeling (SDM). We also determined whether the distribution of B. yatay has changed since the Pleistocene and whether these changes align with previously proposed Pleistocene refugia. In the present SDMs, we considered two separate sets of predictors, one set with bioclimatic variables only and the other set with bioclimatic topographic and soil variables. Additionally, we reconstructed the historical geographic distribution of suitable habitats using bioclimatic data. Our results suggested that the primary determinants of B. yatay's current distribution include precipitation and temperature of the driest month and soil cation exchange capacity. Incorporating soil variables affected the estimated size and range of suitable areas. Projections into the past indicated similar suitable habitat distributions during interglacial periods compared with the present. During the Last Glacial Maximum, climatically suitable habitat may have shifted northward, partially overlapping with previously suggested Pleistocene refugia located between the Paraná and Uruguay Rivers. These findings indicate the main factors driving the distribution and ecology of B. yatay and enhance understanding of subtropical flora shifts during the Quaternary. The approach also may prove valuable for other studies within the Chaco.
20th‐Century hurricanes leave long‐lasting legacies on tropical forest height and the abundance of a dominant wind‐resistant palm
Authors: Uriarte María , Tang Chengliang , Morton Douglas C. , Zimmerman Jess K. , Zheng Tian
Published: November 2023

Projected increases in hurricane intensity under a warming climate will have profound effects on many forest ecosystems. One key challenge is to disentangle the effects of wind damage from the myriad factors that influence forest structure and species distributions over large spatial scales. Here, we employ a novel machine learning framework with high‐resolution aerial photos, and LiDAR collected over 115 km2 of El Yunque National Forest in Puerto Rico to examine the effects of topographic exposure to two hurricanes, Hugo (1989) and Georges (1998), and several landscape‐scale environmental factors on the current forest height and abundance of a dominant, wind‐resistant species, the palm Prestoea acuminata var. montana. Model predictions show that the average density of the palm was 32% greater while the canopy height was 20% shorter in forests exposed to the two storms relative to unexposed areas. Our results demonstrate that hurricanes have lasting effects on forest canopy height and composition, suggesting the expected increase in hurricane severity with a warming climate will alter coastal forests in the North Atlantic.
Unexpected consequence of enterprise digital transformation on financial investments
Authors: Li Shiguang , Yang Zheng , Tian Yixiang
Published: November 2023

Digital transformation provides new opportunities for companies, but also unexpected consequences. We quantify the firms’ level of digitalization using text analysis to examine whether digital transformation affects financial investment. The results conclude that digital transformation increases financial investment and our findings remain valid after robustness checks, indicating that digital transformation unexpectedly exacerbates the financialization problem of Chinese companies. We further discuss the motive and channels of corporate financialization under digital transformation. Our results show that digital transformation increases financial investment through financial surrogate intermediaries and higher return on financial assets. Therefore, managers should not ignore the potential negative effects during the process of digital transformation.
Graduate Students as Leaders and Followers: Effective Practices for Mentoring and Being Mentored
Authors: Kaufman Eric K. , Richardson Sydney D. , Stedman Nicole L. P.
Published: November 2023

Graduate student development depends heavily upon effective mentoring. The ideal outcome is a scholar and/or professional who can work independently, not simply following in the footsteps and example of their mentor(s). In many instances, the developmental process requires the graduate student to be a mentor to others, whether that be for less experienced scholars (e.g., undergraduate students) or in a reverse mentoring role (e.g., guiding their faculty advisor). Effective mentoring is particularly challenging when the relationship is mediated through virtual engagement, which is the case for many online degree programs. The current article illuminates important considerations and strategies for success when facing these challenges. Particular attention is given to the openness framework, which highlights the importance of being open to change, feedback, action, and accountability.
A continuous classification of the 476,697 lakes of the conterminous US based on geographic archetypes
Authors: Lapierre Jean‐Francois , Webster Katherine E. , Hanks Ephraim M. , Wagner Tyler , Soranno Patricia A. , McCullough Ian M. , Reinl Kaitlin L. , Domka Marcella , Lotting Noah R.
Published: November 2023

A variety of classification approaches are used to facilitate understanding, prediction, monitoring, and the management of lakes. However, broad‐scale applicability of current approaches is limited by either the need for in situ lake data, incompatibilities among approaches, or a lack of empirical testing of approaches based on ex situ data. We developed a new geographic classification approach for 476,697 lakes ≥ 1 ha in the conterminous U.S. based on lake archetypes representing end members along gradients of multiple geographic features. We identified seven lake archetypes with distinct combinations of climate, hydrologic, geologic, topographic, and morphometric properties. Individual lakes were assigned weights for each of the seven archetypes such that groups of lakes with similar combinations of archetype weights tended to cluster spatially (although not strictly contiguous) and to have similar limnological properties (e.g., concentrations of nutrients, chlorophyll a (Chl a), and dissolved organic carbon). Further, archetype lake classification improved commonly measured limnological relationships (e.g., between nutrients and Chl a) compared to a global model; a discrete archetype classification slightly outperformed an ecoregion classification; and considering lakes as continuous mixtures of archetypes in a more complex model further improved fit. Overall, archetype classification of US lakes as continuous mixtures of geographic features improved understanding and prediction of lake responses to limnological drivers and should help researchers and managers better characterize and forecast lake states and responses to environmental change.
Electromagnetic Shielding Effectiveness and Impact Test Performance of Carbon Fiber Reinforced Polymer Composites with Hematite and Goethite
Authors: Eken Taha Yasin , Kaykilarli Cantekin , Kucukelyas Burak , Tabakcioglu Mehmet Baris
Published: November 2023

Carbon fibers (CFs) are versatile materials widely employed in carbon fiber‐reinforced polymer (CFRP) composites, known for their superior mechanical properties and electromagnetic interference (EMI) shielding capabilities. This study focuses on the successful production of 2‐layer CFRP composites reinforced with hematite (Fe2O3) particles, in two different sizes (≈44 µm (325 mesh) and 50 nm), and goethite (FeO(OH)), utilizing the hand lay‐up method. The investigation encompasses EMI shielding effectiveness (SE) within a frequency range of 700 to 6000 MHz, and the drop‐impact strength resistance properties (under a 6 J load). Results indicate that the highest EMI SE value, 60.19 dB at 5900 MHz, is achieved with 5 wt.% goethite reinforcements, while with a reduction in drop‐impact strength. For hematite‐reinforced composites, the highest EMI SE, measuring 57.85 dB at 5800 MHz, is observed for samples containing 15 wt.% hematite particles with a size of 50 nm, which exhibited an overall improvement in impact strength compared to non‐reinforced samples. This research highlights the potential of these CFRP composites for EMI shielding applications, with considerations for their impact on mechanical properties, providing valuable insights for applications demanding both EMI protection and structural integrity.
Textile Actuators Comprising Reduced Graphene Oxide as the Current Collector
Authors: Dutta Sujan , Mehraeen Shayan , Martinez Jose G. , Bashir Tariq , Persson Nils‐Krister , Jager Edwin W. H.
Published: November 2023

Electronic textiles (E‐textiles) are made using various materials including carbon nanotubes, graphene, and graphene oxide. Among the materials here, e‐textiles are fabricated with reduced graphene oxide (rGO) coating on commercial textiles. rGO‐based yarns are prepared for e‐textiles by a simple dip coating method with subsequent non‐toxic reduction. To enhance the conductivity, the rGO yarns are coated with poly(3,4‐ethylene dioxythiophene): poly(styrenesulfonic acid) (PEDOT) followed by electrochemical polymerization of polypyrrole (PPy) as the electromechanically active layer, resulting in textile actuators. The rGO‐based yarn actuators are characterized in terms of both isotonic displacement and isometric developed forces, as well as electron microscopy and resistance measurements. Furthermore, it is demonstrated that both viscose rotor spun (VR) and viscose multifilament (VM) yarns can be used for yarn actuators. The resulting VM‐based yarn actuators exhibit high strain (0.58%) in NaDBS electrolytes. These conducting yarns can also be integrated into textiles and fabrics of various forms to create smart e‐textiles and wearable devices.
Bio‐inspired synthesis of bio‐hydroxyapatite/synthetic hydroxyapatite hybrid nanosystems
Authors: Zubieta‐Otero Luis F. , Gomez‐Vazquez Omar M. , Correa‐Piña Brandon A. , Rodriguez‐Garcia Mario E.
Published: November 2023

The current study focuses on the synthesizing of novel hybrid nanosystems of bio‐hydroxyapatite (BioHAp)/synthetic‐hydroxyapatite (HAp‐Syn). Bio‐HAp was defatted, deproteinized, and then sonicated to obtain nanoparticles (nBioHAp). Hybrid nanosystems (HNS) were synthesized by wet chemical precipitation using nBioHAp as nucleation sites and applying four different precipitation times of 45, 90, 135, and 180 min. X‐ray diffraction (XRD) showed that the patterns of the nBioHAp and HAp‐Syn samples have broadened diffraction peaks due to simultaneous elastic and inelastic scattering. Their crystallite size is about 25 nm, while the hybrid nanosystems have a size between 35 and 40 nm. Fourier‐transform infrared spectroscopy (FT‐IR) revealed the main groups associated with hydroxyapatite (PO32−, OH−, and CO32−), and the nanometer character of the crystals was demonstrated by studying the full width at half maximum (FWHM) of the spectra. Scanning electron microscopy (SEM) revealed the differences between the morphologies of nBioHAp and HAp‐Syn. The shape of HNS resembled that of biogenic HAp, which was confirmed by transmission electron microscopy (TEM). Inductively coupled plasma spectroscopy (ICP‐OES) and energy dispersive X‐ray spectroscopy (EDS) were used to confirm the elemental composition of Mg, Na, K, and Zn as minority ions.
Taylor series solutions to steady‐state non‐isothermal diffusion–reaction problems for porous catalyst pellets with arbitrary kinetics
Authors: Andreev Vsevolod V. , Skrzypacz Piotr , Golman Boris
Published: November 2023

In this study, we present Taylor series solutions for steady‐state non‐isothermal diffusion–reaction problems pertaining to porous catalyst pellets exhibiting arbitrary kinetics. Using the Damkohler relation, the system of two nonlinear differential equations is reduced to a single differential equation subject to the algebraic constraint. We derive the novel semi‐analytical and closed‐form explicit approximate solutions for the reactant concentration and temperature in catalyst pellets of planar, cylindrical, and spherical geometries. The derived semi‐analytical and explicit approximations give insight into the effect of process parameters on concentration and temperature profiles. The proposed methods are verified numerically for isothermal and non‐isothermal steady‐state problems with power‐law kinetics. They can serve as a practicable alternative to numerical schemes.