bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Thermochemical behavior and kinetics study of algae pyrolysis using iron oxide catalyst
Authors: Anantharaman Anjana P. , Bangarraju Osipalli , Prakash Chalamala Jaya , Jayabalan Tamilmani
Published: July 2023

The shift in emphasis from fossil fuel‐derived energy to waste‐to‐energy technologies has widened the possibility for environmentally sustainable methods such as pyrolysis. Algae collected from local sources that grow in wastewater using atmospheric CO2 is a potential feedstock for pyrolysis. Thus, the work focuses on studying the pyrolysis reaction of macroalgae sourced from regional sources in the presence of Fe2O3 catalyst using the thermogravimetric analysis, followed by kinetic analysis using iso‐conversional methods of Flynn–Wall–Ozawa (FWO), Kissinger–Akahira–Sunose (KAS), and Starink methods, and model free Kissinger method. The kinetic model was developed using master plot method. XRD analysis of the Fe2O3 catalyst confirms the presence of the maghemite and hematite phases in the sample. Based on the conversion profile, DTG trend, and kinetic parameter variation, the overall pyrolysis process can be divided into three different stages of dissociation reactions. The apparent activation energy calculated from different models varies in the range: stage I (∼268 kJ/mol), stage II (∼261 kJ/mol), and stage III (∼328 kJ/mol), respectively. Master plot analysis of the kinetic data confirms the best fit of the nucleation model (A2) to experimental data in stage II. Further, the thermodynamic properties of the reaction, such as change in enthalpy (ΔH), change in Gibbs free energy (ΔG), and change in entropy (ΔS) range between 206 and 405 kJ/mol, 189 and 651 kJ/mol, −450 and 27 J/mol/K, respectively, corroborates the complexity of the reaction. Kinetics and thermodynamic property analysis of complex reactions like pyrolysis is essential for pilot plant design.
Microbial carbon and nitrogen limitations with mulching of proso millet fields on the Loess Plateau: Evidence from soil ecoenzymatic stoichiometry
Authors: Tian Lixin , Zhang Yuchuan , Gao Xiaoli , Feng Baili
Published: July 2023

Mulching measures can regulate soil properties; however, little is known about the effects metabolic limitations on farmland during the key growth stages of broomcorn millet in multiple regions of the Loess Plateau. We conducted field experiments to compare three techniques: flat planting with no mulching (TP), ridge–furrow mulching system (RF), and plastic film mulching (PFM). Soil extracellular enzymatic stoichiometry and physicochemical properties of three growth periods (jointing, flowering, and maturity) of proso millet (Panicum miliaceum L.) were measured to investigate microbial metabolic limitations and the relationship with soil moisture, temperature, and nutrients in the three regions of the Loess Plateau (Guyuan city, Huining County, and Yulin city). The results show that compared with TP, both PFM and RF techniques increased soil organic carbon (SOC), total nitrogen (TN), ammonium nitrogen (), and nitrate nitrogen () during the jointing period, but the levels decreased during the flowering period, and the activities of C‐, N‐, P‐acquiring enzymes were 29.02%, 33.68%, and 19.46% higher when using PFM, and 13.78%, 6.81%, and 6.52% higher when using RF. Meanwhile, RF treatment significantly increased the carbon metabolism limitation during the jointing, flowering, and maturity periods of proso millet in the three regions, and also improved the nitrogen metabolism limitation during the jointing and flowering periods of proso millet in the Huining and Yulin regions. Linear regression analysis showed that pH, SOC, and contents significantly affected carbon limitation, and nitrogen limitation was gradually alleviated with increases in SOC, TN, and contents in proso millet farmland soils. Partial least squares path modeling showed that soil moisture and nutrients differed significantly among the regions, and soil temperature positively regulated the soil nutrients. Mulching significantly improved the carbon limitation owing to increased soil temperature and moisture. These results provide important ideas for nutrient cycling and microbial metabolism of broomcorn millet farmland soil under mulching measures on the Loess Plateau.
Spatial and Polarization Division Multiplexing Harnessing On‐Chip Optical Beam Forming
Authors: González‐Andrade David , Le Roux Xavier , Aubin Guy , Amar Farah , Nguyen Thi Hao Nhi , Nuño Ruano Paula , Dinh Thi Thuy Duong , Oser Dorian , Pérez‐Galacho Diego , Cassan Eric , Marris‐Morini Delphine , Vivien Laurent , Alonso‐Ramos Carlos
Published: July 2023

On‐chip spatial and polarization multiplexing has emerged as a powerful strategy to boost the data transmission capacity of integrated optical transceivers. State‐of‐the‐art multiplexers require accurate control of the relative phase or the spatial distribution among different guided optical modes, seriously compromising the optical transmission bandwidth and performance of the devices. To overcome this limitation, a new approach based on the coupling between guided modes in integrated waveguides and optical beams free‐propagating on the chip plane is proposed. The engineering of the evanescent coupling between the guided modes and free‐propagating beams allows spatial and polarization multiplexing with state‐of‐the‐art performance. A two‐polarization multiplexed link and a three‐mode multiplexed link using standard 220‐nm‐thick silicon‐on‐insulator technology have been developed. The two‐polarization link shows a measured −35 dB crosstalk bandwidth of 180 nm, while the three‐mode link exhibits a −20 dB crosstalk bandwidth of 195 nm. These links are used to demonstrate error‐free operation (bit‐error‐rate <10−9) in multiplexing and demultiplexing of two and three non‐return‐to‐zero signals at 40 Gbps each, with power penalties below 0.08 and 1.5 dB for the two‐polarization and three‐mode links, respectively. The approach demonstrated for two polarizations and three modes is transferable to future implementation of more complex multiplexing schemes.
Plasma Neurofilament Light Chain Is Elevated in Adaptor Protein Complex 4‐Related Hereditary Spastic Paraplegia
Authors: Alecu Julian E. , Saffari Afshin , Ziegler Marvin , Jordan Catherine , Tam Amy , Kim Soyoung , Leung Edward , Szczaluba Krzysztof , Mierzewska Hanna , King Staci D. , Santorelli Filippo M. , Yoon Grace , Trombetta Bianca , Kivisäkk Pia , Zhang Bo , Sahin Mustafa , Ebrahimi‐Fakhari Darius
Published: July 2023

Background

Adaptor protein complex 4‐associated hereditary spastic paraplegia (AP‐4‐HSP) is caused by pathogenic biallelic variants in AP4B1, AP4M1, AP4E1, and AP4S1.

Objective

The aim was to explore blood markers of neuroaxonal damage in AP‐4‐HSP.

Methods

Plasma neurofilament light chain (pNfL) and glial fibrillary acidic protein (GFAP) levels were measured in samples from patients and age‐ and sex‐matched controls (NfL: n = 46 vs. n = 46; GFAP: n = 14 vs. n = 21) using single‐molecule array assays. Patients' phenotypes were systematically assessed using the AP‐4‐HSP natural history study questionnaires, the Spastic Paraplegia Rating Scale, and the SPATAX disability score.

Results

pNfL levels increased in AP‐4‐HSP patients, allowing differentiation from controls (Mann‐Whitney U test: P = 3.0e‐10; area under the curve = 0.87 with a 95% confidence interval of 0.80–0.94). Phenotypic cluster analyses revealed a subgroup of individuals with severe generalized‐onset seizures and developmental stagnation, who showed differentially higher pNfL levels (Mann‐Whitney U test between two identified clusters: P = 2.5e‐6). Plasma GFAP levels were unchanged in patients with AP‐4‐HSP.

Conclusions

pNfL is a potential disease marker in AP‐4‐HSP and can help differentiate between phenotypic subgroups. © 2023 International Parkinson and Movement Disorder Society.
A preparation pulse for fast steady state approach in Actual Flip angle Imaging
Authors: Zampini Marco Andrea , Sijbers Jan , Verhoye Marleen , Garipov Ruslan
Published: July 2023

Background

Actual Flip angle Imaging (AFI) is a sequence used for B1 mapping, also embedded in the Variable flip angle with AFI for simultaneous estimation of T1, B1 and equilibrium magnetization.

Purpose

To investigate the design of a preparation module for AFI to allow a fast approach to steady state (SS) without requiring the use of dummy acquisitions.

Methods

The features of a preparation module with a B1 insensitive adiabatic pulse, spoiler gradients, and a recovery time were studied with simulations and validated via experiments and acquired with different k‐space traveling strategies. The robustness of the flip angle of the preparation pulse on the acquired signal is studied.

Results

When a 90° adiabatic pulse is used, the forthcoming can be expressed as a function of repetition times and AFI flip angle only as , where n represents the ratio between the two repetition times of AFI. The robustness of the method is demonstrated by showing that using the values further away from 90° still allows for a faster approach to SS than the use of dummy pulses.

Conclusions

The preparation module is particularly advantageous for low flip angles, as well as for AFI sequences that sample the center of the k‐space early in the sequence, such as centric ordering acquisitions, and for ultrafast EPI‐based AFI methods, thus allowing to reduce scanner overhead time.
Bullied: Exploring the concepts of territorialism and groupthink involvement in workplace bullying
Authors: Green Cheryl , Dimino Luong Ada
Published: July 2023

Aims

To educate nurse managers on territorialism and groupthink as being factors within workplace bullying among nurses within the clinical and academic settings that can psychologically and physically harm affected persons.

Design

Territorialism and groupthink are explored as being factors within workplace bullying used by a bully or bullies to target others for personal gain and power. Workplace bullying has become habitual practice in nursing and nursing academia. Workplace bullying is identified not only as unethical behaviour but also as a dangerous practice that can lead to depression, anxiety, stress, and posttraumatic distress syndrome. Persons affected are subjected to emotional abuse that can lead to isolation, low self‐esteem, and self‐doubt.

Methods

Methods by which persons in the workplace can identify bullying that involves territorialism and groupthink are examined. Nurse managers are identified as being instrumental in the identification of workplace bullying involving territorialism and groupthink, and in working with the affected person(s) and bully or bullies to seek mediation through a human resource representative. For nursing managers, it is imperative that workplace bullying is immediately addressed. Workplace bullying creates a hostile and intimidating working environment that affects the physical and mental health of affected persons.

Results

Early identification and resolution of workplace bullying could alleviate the development of physiological and psychological health problems by affected persons. After workplace bullying has been reported, the affected persons should focus on the healing of mind, spirit, and body. New circumstances (e.g., a new place of employment or a promotion) may trigger feelings of anger, intimidation or fear; therefore, it' is important for persons who have experienced bullying in the workplace to understand the abusive environment itself was not directly associated with any wrongdoing by them.

No Patient or Public Contribution

Workplace bullying is disruptive to the workplace and affects productivity, absenteeism from work and turnover intentions. Persons impacted by territorialism and groupthink within the context of workplace bullying can develop psychological and physiological health problems.
Selective C‐7 Functionalization of Phenanthridines by Microwave‐Assisted Claisen Rearrangements of 8‐Allyloxyphenanthridines
Authors: Lepsøe Mathias Ryslett , Dalevold Aleksander Granum , Gundersen Lise‐Lotte
Published: July 2023

Carbon‐carbon bond formation in the phenanthridine 7‐position was achieved by microwave‐assisted Claisen rearrangement of 8‐allyloxyphenanthridines. The reactions took place with excellent regioselectivity and high chemical yields. If the 7‐position was substituted, rearrangement to C‐9 took place, but the reaction occurred less readily. Rearrangements of 8‐allyloxy‐5,6‐dihydrophenanthridines (phenanthridines with a saturated B‐ring) gave a mixture of 7‐ and 9‐substituted products. The experimental results were supported by DFT (density functional theory) calculations.
Exploring the Government's role during COVID‐19 through a newly validated scale
Authors: Bala Rajni , Singh Sandeep , Rehman Shafique Ur
Published: July 2023

The present study aims to explore the perceived role of the government during this pandemic situation. The study, through the perception of general masses examine the government's role during the COVID‐19 pandemic. It is believed that this is the first empirical study conducted on this issue. The study was conducted on general masses in the northern part of India. The data was collected from two states, namely, Punjab and Himachal Pradesh having different geographical and cultural base. It confirms preventive and supportive role of the government during this pandemic. The study provides a validated scale for future research on the issue under investigation. The results of this study obtained through newly validated scale can be generalised for evaluating the real performance of the government during this pandemic. Further, the government can also assess its role played at the time of this pandemic.
Comparative metabolic profiling of mycelia, fermentation broth, spore powder and fruiting bodies of Ophiocordyceps gracilis by LC–MS/MS
Authors: Wang Yue , Yang Lin‐Hui , Tong Ling‐Ling , Yuan Li , Ren Bo , Guo Dong‐Sheng
Published: July 2023

Introduction

Ophiocordyceps gracilis, a type of edible and medicinal fungus, exhibits multiple health‐promoting effects. Due to the scarcity of natural O. gracilis, artificial cultures have been developed as its substitutes. However, lacking comprehension of the metabolite composition of cultures limits its utilisation.

Objective

This research aimed to evaluate the nutritional and medicinal value of four cultures of O. gracilis by analysing their metabolite composition. In addition, metabolic pathways in mycelia and fruiting bodies were analysed to explore fruiting body formation mechanism at metabolic level.

Method

The mycelia, fermentation broth, spore powder and fruiting bodies of O. gracilis were cultivated in this study. Their metabolite composition was compared using an untargeted metabolomics approach based on liquid chromatography–tandem mass spectrometry (LC–MS/MS).

Results

Principal component analysis (PCA) and orthogonal projections to latent structures discriminant analysis (OPLS‐DA) showed that the four cultures have noticeable differences in metabolite composition. A total of 612 metabolites were identified, among which 159 metabolites showed significant differences, and these differential metabolites were classified into 13 categories. The metabolites in the fruiting bodies were the most abundant compared with other cultures. However, each culture had its own advantages and significantly accumulates some active metabolites respectively. Pearson's correlation analysed the mutual relationship among metabolites. In addition, seven metabolic pathways were closely related to fruiting body formation, such as “Biosynthesis of plant secondary metabolites”, “amino acids metabolism”, “tricarboxylic acid (TCA) cycle”.

Conclusion

This study offered a reference to mycelia, fermentation broth, spore powder and fruiting bodies of O. gracilis as health‐promoting functional foods and medicine.
Study of the chlorogenic acid extraction with choline chloride‐based deep eutectic solvents and its non‐covalent interactions analysis
Authors: Herrera‐Beltrán Ilse V. , Méndez‐Torruco Mauricio , Matus Myrna H. , Domínguez Zaira
Published: July 2023

The microwave‐assisted extraction of the main phenolic component of green coffee beans, chlorogenic acid (CGA), was carried out employing deep eutectic solvents based on choline chloride and five different hydrogen bond donors (HBD) in a 1:2 ratio. The best performance for the extraction process of CGA was reached by the mixtures of choline chloride/ethylene glycol and choline chloride/urea. To understand the various interactions between the phenolic compound and the two most efficient deep eutectic solvents, computational calculations were carried out at the density functional theory (DFT) level, as well as Atoms in Molecules (AIM) and Non‐Covalent Interactions (NCIs) analyses. In that way, a variety of hydrogen bond types were found in every structure. Nevertheless, the CGA does not disrupt the hydrogen bond network established between ChCl and the HBD. Among the strongest interactions are those hydrogen bonds between the quinic acid moiety and the ethylene glycol or the urea. In addition, the thermochemistry of the formation of the two main deep eutectic solvents and their corresponding complexes with CGA was calculated, where the formation of urea‐based structures was slightly more effective by ~3 kcal/mol.
Eucalyptus globulus essential oil thin film polymerized by cold plasma on Ti6Al4V: Sterilization effect, antibacterial activity, adhesion, and viability of mesenchymal stem cells
Authors: da Silva Bullmann Matheus , de Castro Victor Velho , Coutinho Daniel Augusto Krieger , Lopes Fernanda Cortez , Maurmann Natasha , Pereira Marcelo B. , Rodrigues Miguel , Pranke Patricia , Ferraz Maria Pia , Lopes Maria Ascensão , Arenas Leliz Ticona , Malfatti Célia de Fraga
Published: July 2023

This work aims to evaluate the characterization, antibacterial activity, and mesenchymal stem cell (MSC) viability in films obtained by cold plasma polymerization, from the essential oil of Eucalyptus globulus on Ti6Al4V alloy. The film presented low roughness values and a contact angle of 85°. The process incorporated a coating with oxygenated functional groups (OH and C═O). The effect of ultraviolet radiation, ethylene oxide, autoclave, and air plasma sterilization on polymer degradation was evaluated. Biofilm formation by Staphylococcus aureus was reduced on the film surface with no toxicity to MSCs. These effects can be attributed to functional groups, combined with the surface roughness and contact angle. These results suggest a potential for the application of this coating in biomaterials.
Validation of in situ diagnostics for the detection of OH and H2O2 in liquids treated by a humid atmospheric pressure plasma jet
Authors: Schüttler Steffen , Jolmes Ludwig , Jeß Emanuel , Tschulik Kristina , Golda Judith
Published: July 2023

A humid atmospheric pressure plasma jet was used to treat an aqueous liquid. The transport of hydrogen peroxide and hydroxyl from the plasma to the liquid was analyzed. Two in situ liquid diagnostics for each species were compared and validated. In the case of H2O2, a spectrophotometric approach using ammonium metavanadate and electrochemical sensing based on Prussian blue carbon paste electrodes was applied. Both methods show very good agreement in trends and absolute values. The detection of OH was performed by terephthalic acid (TA) dosimetry and its distribution was visualized by the chemiluminescence of luminol. There, the measurement using TA resembles the luminol measurements and vice versa, and a very good agreement between both methods was found.
Protective effect and possible mechanisms of resveratrol in animal models of osteoporosis: A preclinical systematic review and meta‐analysis
Authors: Lin Fan , Chen Jiaru , Chen Mangmang , Lin Shenglei , Dong Shuangxia
Published: July 2023

Resveratrol (RES) has extensively been utilized to treat osteoporosis (OP) in animal models. However, the anti‐OP effects of RES have not been tested during clinical application due to the lack of evidence and poor knowledge of the underlying mechanisms. Moreover, there is little preclinical evidence to support the use of RES in the management of OP. In the present paper, we conducted a preclinical systematic review and meta‐analysis to assess the efficacy of RES in animal OP models. The potential mechanisms underlying the efficacy of RES against OP were summarized. The online databases PubMed, CNKI, EMBASE, Wanfang, Web of Science, Chinese Biomedical Literature, Cochrane Library, and Chinese VIP were retrieved from inception to December 2021. The CAMARADES 10‐item quality checklist was utilized to assess the risk of bias of the included studies. STATA 12.0 software was employed to analyze the data. The quality of evidence was assessed using the Grading of Recommendations, Assessment, Development, and Evaluation (GRADE) approach. Thirteen studies containing 248 animals were included yielding a mean risk of bias score of 5.54 (range 4–7). The pooled estimates showed that the administration of RES could significantly elevate the bone mineral density (BMD) both at femur (SMD = 2.536; 95% CI = 1.950–3.122; p < 0.001) and lumbar spine (SMD = 1.363; 95% CI = 0894–1.832; p < 0.001), bone volume over total volume (BV/TV) (SMD = 2.543; 95% CI = 2.023–3.062; p < 0.001), trabecular linear density (Tb.N) (SMD = 2.724; 95% CI = 2.186–3.262; p < 0.001) and trabecular thickness (Tb.Th) (SMD = 1.745; 95% CI = 1.294–2.196; p < 0.001), while serum phosphorus (S‐P) (SMD = −2.168; 95% CI = −2.753 to −1.583; p < 0.001) and trabecular separation (Tb.Sp) (SMD = −2.856; 95% CI = −4.218 to −1.494; p < 0.001) were significantly reduced in animal OP models. No significant change in serum calcium (S‐Ca) (SMD = −2.448; 95% CI = −5.255–0.360; p = 0.087) was observed after RES treatment. Furthermore, RES could significantly improve the bone biomechanical indexes: bone maximum load (BML) (SMD = 2.563; 95% CI = 1.827–3.299; p < 0.001) and connectivity density (Conn.D) (SMD = 1.512; 95% CI = 0.909–2.116; p < 0.001) and decrease the structural model index (SMI) (SMD = −2.522; 95% CI = −3.243 to −1.801; p < 0.001). Overall, the present study revealed that RES has huge prospects as a medicine or dietary supplement for the clinical treatment of OP. High‐quality studies with stringent designs and larger sample sizes are warranted to substantiate our conclusion.
Differential health outcomes of the COVID‐19 pandemic among minority populations: An analysis based on Chicago's neighborhoods
Authors: Geletta Simon , Soyemi Kenneth
Published: July 2023

Background

The study examines the effects of the COVID‐19 pandemic on different ethnic and racial groups. It aims to investigate the existence or nonexistence of significant variations in COVID‐19 health outcomes among two ethnic and racial minorities that resided in Chicago neighborhoods during the onslaught of the pandemic. Researchers have traditionally studied health disparities by comparing the health of minorities representing “underserved” populations and those with adequate healthcare. This study focuses on the heterogeneity of health outcomes between different minority populations, mainly Black and Hispanic, traditionally considered underserved populations.

Methods

This cross‐sectional study uses secondary data from a public reporting site. The unit of analysis is neighborhood units based on US postal zip codes that are cross‐referenced with the US Census Bureau's zip code tabulation area codes. We used Chicago neighborhood data and applied geographic analyses to describe the patterns of similarities and differences in the outcomes of the COVID‐19 pandemic among neighborhoods with different ethnic and racial minorities residing in them. Using the one‐way analysis of variance technique, we also tested research hypotheses about the COVID‐19 outcome differences and/or similarities among the neighborhoods.

Results

Our findings show that although Hispanic neighborhoods disproportionately carried a higher burden of infection by the disease, the mortality due to the illness or the case fatality rate was not much higher than in the other neighborhoods. In contrast, African American neighborhoods did experience significantly higher case fatality rates—although their infection rate was not statistically significantly higher than the average infection rates of the other Chicago neighborhoods.

Conclusions

Minority status creates distinct adverse effects on different minority groups. The patterns of distinct outcomes need to be well understood through further studied and considered by policymakers when health policies are designed to address the impact of health disparities.
Decoherence of Single‐Excitation Entanglement over Duan‐Lukin‐Cirac‐Zoller Quantum Networks Caused by Slow‐Magnetic‐Field Fluctuations and Protection Approach
Authors: Sun Can , Li Ya , Hou Yi‐bo , Wang Min‐jie , Li Shu‐jing , Wang Hai
Published: July 2023

Atomic spin‐wave (SW) memory is a building block for quantum repeater. However, due to decoherence caused by atomic motions and magnetic‐field gradients, SW retrieval efficiency decays with storage time. Slow magnetic‐field fluctuations (SMFFs) lead to shot‐to‐shot phase noises of SWs, but have not been considered in previous repeater protocols. Here, a SW model including a homogeneous phase noise caused by SMFFs is developed, and then revealed that such phase noise induces decoherence of single‐excitation entanglement between two atomic ensembles in a repeater link. For verifying this conclusion, single‐excitation entanglement between two SWs in a cold atomic ensemble is experimentally prepared and observed entanglement decoherence induced by SMFFs. Limited by SMFFs, the evaluated lifetime of the single‐excitation entanglement over a repeater link is ≈135 ms, even if the link uses optical‐lattice atoms as nodes. Then an approach that may overcome such limitations and extend this lifetime to ≈1.7 s is presented.
High‐resolution thermal imagery reveals how interactions between crown structure and genetics shape plant temperature
Authors: Olsoy Peter J. , Zaiats Andrii , Delparte Donna M. , Germino Matthew J. , Richardson Bryce A. , Roop Spencer , Roser Anna V. , Forbey Jennifer S. , Cattau Megan E. , Buerki Sven , Reinhardt Keith , Caughlin T. Trevor
Published: July 2023

Understanding interactions between environmental stress and genetic variation is crucial to predict the adaptive capacity of species to climate change. Leaf temperature is both a driver and a responsive indicator of plant physiological response to thermal stress, and methods to monitor it are needed. Foliar temperatures vary across leaf to canopy scales and are influenced by genetic factors, challenging efforts to map and model this critical variable. Thermal imagery collected using unoccupied aerial systems (UAS) offers an innovative way to measure thermal variation in plants across landscapes at leaf‐level resolutions. We used a UAS equipped with a thermal camera to assess temperature variation among genetically distinct populations of big sagebrush (Artemisia tridentata), a keystone plant species that is the focus of intensive restoration efforts throughout much of western North America. We completed flights across a growing season in a sagebrush common garden to map leaf temperature relative to subspecies and cytotype, physiological phenotypes of plants, and summer heat stress. Our objectives were to (1) determine whether leaf‐level stomatal conductance corresponds with changes in crown temperature; (2) quantify genetic (i.e., subspecies and cytotype) contributions to variation in leaf and crown temperatures; and (3) identify how crown structure, solar radiation, and subspecies‐cytotype relate to leaf‐level temperature. When considered across the whole season, stomatal conductance was negatively, non‐linearly correlated with crown‐level temperature derived from UAS. Subspecies identity best explained crown‐level temperature with no difference observed between cytotypes. However, structural phenotypes and microclimate best explained leaf‐level temperature. These results show how fine‐scale thermal mapping can decouple the contribution of genetic, phenotypic, and microclimate factors on leaf temperature dynamics. As climate‐change‐induced heat stress becomes prevalent, thermal UAS represents a promising way to track plant phenotypes that emerge from gene‐by‐environment interactions.
Influence of Fe on Crystallization Behaviour and Electrical Conductivity of V2O5 ⋅ MoO3 ⋅ CdO ⋅ ZnO Glass Nanocomposite
Authors: Mondal Ajit , Biswas Prosanta , Kumar Mondal Manas , Karmakar Srikanta , Roy Debasish , Bhattacharya Sanjib , Mallik Amit
Published: July 2023

The effect of varying iron content on the crystallization behavior and electrical conductivity mechanism of glass nanocomposite based on the system xFe ⋅ (1‐x) ⋅ (0.3 V2O5 ⋅ 0.2MoO3 ⋅ 0.4CdO ⋅ 0.1ZnO) (x=0.0, 0.05 and 0.1) was investigated by differential scanning calorimetry (DSC), Fourier transforms infrared (FTIR), X‐ray diffraction (XRD), and field emission‐scanning electron microscopy (FESEM). Different crystal phases and the average size of the developed nanocrystallites in the as‐prepared samples have been obtained from the XRD diffraction data. The size of estimated nanocrystallites increases up to Fe (x) content 0.05, after which the size of nanocrystallites decreases as the Fe content in the compositions increases. FESEM micrographs confirm the formation of plate‐like and dendrite nano crystallites throughout the glass matrix. Energy‐dispersive X‐ray spectroscopy (EDX) mapping analysis shows the weight percentage of each constituent element. The dc activation energy (Eσ), as well as activation energy (EH) for hopping frequency of as‐prepared samples, gradually decreases with increasing Fe content whereas AC and DC conductivity gradually increased.
An Ion Selective Electrode Study: Naproxen (NA) Quantification in Pharmaceutical Formulations
Authors: Fatah Sazgar Q. , Karim Wrya O.
Published: July 2023

This study presents fabrication, characterizations and application of an ion‐selective electrode based on naproxen‐sodium tungstate (NA‐ST) ion pairs as a sensor for the quantification of naproxen in a number of pharmaceutical formulations. The ISE is made of the sensor (electrochemical active species or ion pairs) as well as polyvinyl chloride (PVC) and dibutyl phthalate as supporting and plasticizer materials, respectively. The characterizations of the sensor film comprise usage of Fourier transform infrared (FTIR), scanning electron microscope (SEM); in addition to determining the stoichiometric ratio between the components of the sensor using elemental analysis (CHN microanalysis). The analytical evaluation of the sensor film based on selectivity, sensitivity, and Nernstian behavior (55.8±1.1 mV/decade) are shown. The relative high selectivity of sensor towards NA as a target in the presence of several common interferents are exhibited. The ISE possesses a satisfactory sensitivity by recording a detection limit of 0.005 μM. The sensor also experiences a Nernstian behavior during all measurements. The dynamic linear range lies between 0.01 and 100 μM at 25 °C with R2=0.9998. The shelf life is 17 s and longevity lasts four months.
Synthesis andIn vitro‐In silicoEvaluation of Thiazolo‐triazole Hybrids as Anticancer Candidates
Authors: Aggarwal Ranjana , Kumar Prince , Jain Naman , Hooda Mona , Kumar Suresh , Sadana Rachna , Lwanga Robert , Guzman Andrea , Chugh Heerak , Chandra Ramesh
Published: July 2023

To meet the growing need for stable and clinically effective chemotherapeutic agents, herein, we have synthesized a series of acyl‐functionalized thiazolo[3,2‐b]‐[1,2,4]triazole derivatives in highly efficient and regioselective manner. The structure of newly synthesized regioisomeric products was unambiguously characterized by multinuclear 2D‐NMR [(1H−13C) HMBC, (1H−13C) HMQC] spectroscopic data. To assess the anticancer and pharmacokinetic profile of the synthesized compounds, we performedin silico, andex vivobinding studies of compounds with calf‐thymus deoxyribonucleic acid (ct‐DNA) and bovine serum albumin (BSA), respectively, and also tested their efficacy against five human cancer cell lines.viz., MCF‐7 (breast cancer), BT‐474 (breast cancer), A549 (lung cancer), MOLT4 (acute lymphoblastic leukemia), and BxPC3 (pancreatic cancer). Compounds (2‐(4‐chlorophenyl)‐6‐methylthiazolo[3,2‐b][1,2,4]triazol‐5‐yl)(4‐fluorophenyl)methanone6 l, (4‐chlorophenyl)(2‐(4‐chlorophenyl)‐6‐methylthiazolo[3,2‐b][1,2,4]triazol‐5‐yl)methanone6 mand (2‐(4‐chlorophenyl)‐6‐methylthiazolo[3,2‐b][1,2,4]triazol‐5‐yl)(4‐methoxyphenyl) methanone6 qexhibited excellent anticancer potential among the screened derivatives. Furthermore, ex‐vivomechanistic investigations showed the static mode of quenching and moderate bindings between the ligand and biomolecules; DNA (Kq=2.01‐2.24*1012 M−1 s−1) and BSA (Kq=2.25‐.2.72*1012 M−1 s−1). Moreover, fluorescence displacement assay demonstrated a groove binding mode of interaction with ct‐DNA, which was supported by UV‐Visible absorption spectrum, circular dichroism, and viscosity analysis.
Strong Be−Be and Zn−Zn Bonded Aromatic Complexes of Ethyne
Authors: Guha Ankur Kanti
Published: July 2023

Quantum chemical calculations reveal that ethyne (C2H2) can be a very good fragment to create strong Be−Be and Zn−Zn interactions. The complexes are thermodynamically stable in which Be2and Zn2fragments act as electron donors towards C2H2fragment acquiring Be2δ+and Zn2δ+states. The partial positive nature of Be2and Zn2fragments made their electronic structure to be described adequately by single reference character. Introduction of electronegative F atom as in C2F2results in shorter Be−Be and Zn−Zn distances. Bonding analyses reveal that all these complexes feature delocalized π bond resulting in aromaticity.
Peptide‐tethered Perylenebisimide Aggregates with Copper Nanoclusters showing Thermoresponsive and Photoresponsive Properties
Authors: Hazra Soumyajit , Bairagi Dipayan , Hazra Niladri , Nandi Arun Kumar , Banerjee Arindam
Published: July 2023

A centrally located dipeptide(P) covalently attached to two perylene bisimide units [(PBI)2P] was synthesized and it was used to fabricate a hybrid system by aggregating with blue‐emitting, atomically precise copper nano‐clusters (Cu NCs). The interactions between these components [(PBI)2P] and Cu NCs] was thoroughly investigated by UV‐Vis spectroscopy and field emission gun transmission electron microscopy (FEG‐TEM).The effect of interaction between components on the optical properties of the hybrids was investigated by fluorescence spectroscopy. Interestingly, this hybrid system shows fluorescence thermometric behaviour at the 20–50 °C temperature range with a promising reversible switchable fluorescence property. Photo‐switching property is enhanced significantly in the hybrid compared to that of the peptide tethered pelylene bisimides as it is evident from the improvement of photocurrent gain (Ion/Ioff) from 2.6 in [(PBI)2P] to 6.9 in the hybrid. Modulation of photo‐switching property along with the thermo‐sensitive fluorescence property in this hybrid holds a future promise for fabrication of devices from the peptide based hybrids.
Dynamic Color‐Switching of Hydrogel Micropillar Array under Ethanol Vapor for Optical Encryption
Authors: Zhou Ming‐Xia , Jin Feng , Wang Jian‐Yu , Dong Xian‐Zi , Liu Jie , Zheng Mei‐Ling
Published: July 2023

Responsive structural colors from artificially engineered micro/nanostructures are critical to the development of anti‐counterfeiting, optical encryption, and intelligent display. Herein, the responsive structural color of hydrogel micropillar array is demonstrated under the external stimulus of ethanol vapor. Micropillar arrays with full color are fabricated via femtosecond laser direct writing by controlling the height and diameter of the micropillars according to the FDTD simulation. Color‐switching of the micropillar arrays is achieved in <1 s due to the formation of liquid film among micropillars. More importantly, the structural color blueshift of the micropillar arrays is sensitive to the micropillar diameter, instead of the micropillar height. The micropillar array with a diameter of 772 nm takes 400 ms to complete blueshift under ethanol vapor, while that with a diameter of 522 nm blueshifts at 2400 ms. Microscale patterns are realized by employing the size‐dependent color‐switching of designed micropillar arrays under ethanol vapor. Moreover, Morse code and directional blueshift of structural colors are realized in the micropillar arrays. The advantages of controllable color‐switching of the hydrogel micropillar array would be prospective in the areas of optical encryption, dynamic display, and anti‐counterfeiting.
A Pressure‐Assisted Fast Crystallization Strategy for Perovskite Solar Cells
Authors: Zhang Guodong , Zheng Yifan , Wang Haonan , Shi Yifeng , Sun Mengjie , Ma Xiaorong , Wang Hu , Li Qingyuan , Li Tao , Yu Junsheng , Shao Yuchuan
Published: July 2023

The achievement of high‐performance solar cell production hinges on the development of a reliable and effective approach for perovskite crystallization that is compatible with rapid and continuous processing on large substrates. Herein, a pressure‐assisted fast crystallization technique is presented that reduces the thermal annealing period to less than 2 min and achieves the impressive formation of micrometer‐sized vertical‐monolithic perovskite crystals. The pressure‐assisted technique provides confined space and pressure, where the confined space hinders the volatilization of residual solvents and enhances the Ostwald ripening effect. The presence of pressure provides internal energy for crystal growth, while the presence of solvent molecules accelerates solute diffusion. These factors collectively contribute to the rapid growth of grains. Results demonstrate that this pressure‐assisted fast crystallization strategy significantly enhances the power conversion efficiency (PCE) of both n‐i‐p and p‐i‐n perovskite solar cells (PSCs), achieving PCEs of 22.80% and 24.69%, respectively. The improvement in PCE can be attributed to the reduced number of grain boundaries, minimized interfacial defects, and enhanced surface crystalline quality. Importantly, this approach is universal and highly reproducible for solution‐processed manufacturing methods. It is anticipated that this efficient, reliable, and reproducible technique will accelerate the commercialization of PSCs.
Mineral nutrients in plants under changing environments: A road to future food and nutrition security
Authors: Khan M. Iqbal R. , Nazir Faroza , Maheshwari Chirag , Chopra Priyanka , Chhillar Himanshu , Sreenivasulu Nese
Published: July 2023

Plant nutrition is an important aspect that contributes significantly to sustainable agriculture, whereas minerals enrichment in edible source implies global human health; hence, both strategies need to be bridged to ensure “One Health” strategies. Abiotic stress‐induced nutritional imbalance impairs plant growth. In this context, we discuss the molecular mechanisms related to the readjustment of nutrient pools for sustained plant growth under harsh conditions, and channeling the minerals to edible source (seeds) to address future nutritional security. This review particularly highlights interventions on (i) the physiological and molecular responses of mineral nutrients in crop plants under stressful environments; (ii) the deployment of breeding and biotechnological strategies for the optimization of nutrient acquisition, their transport, and distribution in plants under changing environments. Furthermore, the present review also infers the recent advancements in breeding and biotechnology‐based biofortification approaches for nutrient enhancement in crop plants to optimize yield and grain mineral concentrations under control and stress‐prone environments to address food and nutritional security.
Diverse genome‐wide DNA methylation alterations in canine hepatocellular tumours
Authors: Asari Yu , Yamazaki Jumpei , Thandar Oo , Suzuki Tamami , Aoshima Keisuke , Takeuchi Kyosuke , Kinoshita Ryohei , Kim Sangho , Hosoya Kenji , Ishizaki Teita , Kagawa Yumiko , Jelinek Jaroslav , Yokoyama Shoko , Sasaki Noboru , Ohta Hiroshi , Nakamura Kensuke , Takiguchi Mitsuyoshi
Published: July 2023

Background

Canine hepatocellular tumours (HCTs) are common primary liver tumours. However, the exact mechanisms of tumourigenesis remain unclear. Although some genetic mutations have been reported, DNA methylation alterations in canine HCT have not been well studied.

Objectives

In this study, we aimed to analyse the DNA methylation status of canine HCT.

Methods

Tissues from 33 hepatocellular carcinomas, 3 hepatocellular adenomas, 1 nodular hyperplasia, 21 non‐tumour livers from the patients and normal livers from 5 healthy dogs were used. We analysed the DNA methylation levels of 72,367 cytosine–guanine dinucleotides (CpG sites) in all 63 samples.

Results and conclusions

Although a large fraction of CpG sites that were highly methylated in the normal liver became hypomethylated in tumours from most patients, we also found some patients with less remarkable change or no change in DNA methylation. Hierarchical clustering analysis revealed that 32 of 37 tumour samples differed from normal livers, although the remaining 5 tumour livers fell into the same cluster as normal livers. In addition, the number of hypermethylated genes in tumour livers varied among tumour cases, suggesting various DNA methylation patterns in different tumour groups. However, patient and clinical parameters, such as age, were not associated with DNA methylation status. In conclusion, we found that HCTs undergo aberrant and diverse patterns of genome‐wide DNA methylation compared with normal liver tissue, suggesting a complex epigenetic mechanism in canine HCT.
Lifestyle, an integrative concept: Cross‐disciplinary insights for low‐carbon research
Authors: Agnew Maureen D. , Pettifor Hazel , Wilson Charlie
Published: July 2023

Lifestyle change is a fundamental component of transformative pathways to net‐zero emissions. Despite the pervasive use of ‘lifestyle’ as a concept, there is lack of convergence on what constitutes lifestyle due to contrasting perspectives and approaches within and across disciplines. While there is a long tradition of lifestyle research in public health and in marketing, this does not currently inform low‐carbon lifestyle research. We review a wide range of empirical and theoretical lifestyle studies using a directed thematic approach. Focusing on current knowledge within low‐carbon lifestyles research, we draw insights from two contrasting research perspectives (health, marketing) to support and advance low‐carbon research. We argue that ‘lifestyle’ is a unifying meta‐concept comprised of three common integrating elements: behaviours, cognitions, and context. We find variation across research fields reflecting differing emphasis and differentiate integrative from domain‐specific frameworks. Fragmented approaches in low‐carbon research compartmentalise concepts within domains such that ‘lifestyle’ is aligned more closely in meaning to ‘behaviour’, accentuating inconsistencies. Lifestyle heterogeneity is characterised by clusters of cognitive and behavioural factors linked to broad social and material contexts. We identify drivers of lifestyle change, and argue lifestyle is not purely a matter of choice but shaped by contextual factors which lock‐in unsustainable behaviours or facilitate sustainable behaviours. There are important implications for research and intervention. Lifestyle complexities demand a wider analytical lens incorporating cross‐disciplinary datasets and integrative frameworks. Broadening cognitive and contextual dimensions would deepen understanding of lifestyle change. Comprehensive low‐carbon lifestyle interventions should combine multiple strategies, at‐risk groups, and opportunistic circumstance.

This article is categorized under:

Climate and Environment > Net Zero Planning and Decarbonization

Human and Social Dimensions > Behavioral Science
Mapping water quality parameters in Baner and Gaj rivulets: Insights into the potential impact on river Beas in Himachal Pradesh using ArcGIS
Authors: Brar Bhavna , Thakur Kushal , Mahajan Danish , Sharma Dixit , Kumar Sunil , Upmanyu Sachin , Kumar Rakesh
Published: July 2023

Several natural and anthropogenic activities, as well as rapid urbanization and industrialization, have caused freshwater bodies and their water quality to deteriorate rapidly over the past two decades. This study utilizes ArcGIS to map water quality parameters in the Baner and Gaj rivulets, tributaries of the river Beas in Himachal Pradesh, with the objective of gaining insights into their potential impact on the main river. So, the main aim of the present research was to assess the impact of anthropogenic actions on the ecology and the fitness of the rivulets basin to perpetuate freshwater diversity. A total of six sampling zones were selected; three sampling zones on Baner and three sampling zones on Gaj rivulets, in order to assess the water quality during the period of one year, from January 2022 to December 2022. During the present study, the Water Quality Index (WQI) was used to assess the status of water quality in both rivulets. Fourteen physicochemical parameters were examined using appropriate techniques and then compared to international standards. A slight upsurge was observed in some physicochemical parameters, such as pH, hardness, TDS, nitrate, and phosphate, at sampling zone 3 (S3) of the Baner rivulet. The results of WQI ranged from 45.5 at S1 to 50.2 at S3 in Gaj and 48.5 at S1 to 55.2 at S3 in Baner, which reflected a slight impact of natural and anthropogenic activities. The status of the water quality in both rivulets confirmed the abundance of aquatic species. Human activities, such as riverbed mining, also negatively impacted the water quality at some sample zones. There is, however, a need to monitor and evaluate these types of activities. However, further research and monitoring are necessary to validate the study's findings and extend its scope to other regions.
Gravitational reheating at strong coupling
Authors: Buchel Alex
Published: July 2023

Abstract

We use the gauge/gravity correspondence to study the gravitational reheating of strongly coupled gauge theories in the rapid exit from the long inflationary (de Sitter) phase. We estimate the maximal reheating temperature of holographic models in d-spatial dimensions, whose scale invariance is explicitly broken by a source term for an operator 𝒪∆ of dimension $$ \frac{d}{2}+\frac{1}{2}<\Delta <d+1 $$

d
2

+

1
2

<
∆
<
d
+
1
, as well as the top-down 𝒩 = 2* and the cascading gauge theories. The reheating is most efficient when the inflationary phase Hubble constant is much larger than the mass scale of the conformal symmetry breaking of the theory, and for theories with the conformal symmetry breaking operators that are close to marginal.
Chiral soliton lattice at next-to-leading order
Authors: Brauner Tomáš , Kolešová Helena
Published: July 2023

Abstract

We compute the free energy of the chiral soliton lattice state in quantum chromodynamics (QCD) at nonzero baryon chemical potential, temperature and external magnetic field at the next-to-leading order of chiral perturbation theory. This extends previous work where only a special limit of the chiral soliton lattice, the domain wall, was considered. Our results therefore serve as a consistency check of the previously established phase diagram of QCD at moderate magnetic fields and temperature and sub-nuclear baryon chemical potentials. Moreover, we use the result for the free energy to determine the magnetization carried by the domain wall and the chiral soliton lattice, both at the next-to-leading order.