bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Les séries télévisées et l’esthétique carnavalesque
Authors: Esquenazi Jean-Pierre
Published: May 2013

Dans son livre sur Rabelais, Mikhaïl Bakhtine pose les principes d’une esthétique carnavalesque qui serait à l’origine de l’ensemble de la littérature « hétéroglossique », c’est-à-dire capable de brasser les discours peuplant un univers social. L’auteur établit un parallèle entre ces écrits et certaines fictions télévisuelles où se manifestent les traits caractéristiques du carnavalesque (la grossièreté, le brassage des genres, la conquête d’un point de vue discordant, l’impertinence envers les puissances), inspirés par le bref renversement social que constituent les carnavals au Moyen Âge. L’auteur propose de regarder un moment de l’histoire des séries télévisées à travers la perspective carnavalesque, capable selon lui de rendre compte du projet de ces séries. L’auteur étudie en détail la narration de deux séries carnavalesques :The Simpsons(1989-…) etBoston Legal(2004-2008). Dans la première, la narration fait d’une petite ville fictive, Springfield, un microcosme des attitudes et des stéréotypes américains aperçus à travers la loupe de la famille Simpson. Dans la seconde, des juristes obsédés, obsessionnels et pervers se confrontent aux douleurs d’une Amérique vacillante.
Experiencias históricas recientes de reintegración de excombatientes en Colombia
Authors: Villarraga Sarmiento Álvaro
Published: May 2013

In the absence of a comprehensive peace agreement that enables the end of Colombia’s armed conflict, there have been peace agreements with several guerrillas’ organizations such as the M19, the EPL and others. Despite this, hostilities persist other guerrillas (FARC and ELN). At the same time, there was an agreement with paramilitary groups to achieve their deactivation. As a result, in the last decades there have been disarmament, demobilization and reintegration (DDR) experiences that have notorious differences according to the nature of the different armed groups, the processes carried out with each of them and their circumstances. However, the reintegration process is very similar for all participants in terms of the services offer by the institution in charged of the reintegration phase. The main difference of these DDR processes is related to the collective political aspiration hoped for by the insurgent forces following their insertion as a civilian group within legality. Simultaneously, the individual desertion and reintegration process comes up as a different case due to its application outside of a peace process frame. This individual dynamic cannot be seen as a demobilization process as the recent governments have assumed it.
La dimensión política del postconflicto: discusiones conceptuales y avances empíricos
Authors: Ugarriza Juan Esteban
Published: May 2013

This article describes the political challenges faced by post-conflict societies, using both normative and empirical perspectives. After a conceptual discussion on the system-, group-, and individuallevel challenges, referred to institutional reform, reintegration of excombatants, reconciliation, and participation, it focuses on developing an operative definition of political reintegration. Afterwards, it presents a descriptive analysis of the first results of a political deliberation excercise among ex-combatants from guerrilla and paramilitary groups. Not only do results offer insights on the politiclal behavior of those who had resorted in the past to the use of violence, but they also present an assessment of how feasible would be promoting deliberative politics as a strategy for democracy-deepening in post-conflict settings.
Electrolyte Design by Synergistic High‐Donor Solvent and Alcohol Anion Acceptor for Reversible Fluoride Ion Batteries
Authors: Li Guyue , Yu Yifan , Li Decheng , Li Chilin
Published: July 2024

Fluoride ion batteries (FIBs) are regarded as one of the most promising candidates for next‐generation energy storage systems to achieve lower cost and higher energy density. However, the appropriate electrolyte design strategy is still lacking for FIBs to simultaneously settle the issues of fluoride salt dissolution and metal cation shuttle. Herein, a novel fluoride ion shuttle electrolyte with the synergistic high‐donor solvent (N, N‐dimethylacetamide, DMA) and alcohol anion acceptor (benzyl alcohol, BA) is developed. BA enables the promotion of solubility of inorganic fluoride salt (CsF). Meanwhile, benefiting from the re‐configuration of hydrogen bonding network by DMA, the solvation structures of anions and cations are regulated with reduced hindrance to F− shuttle and mitigated dissolution of active material. This electrolyte formation achieves superior interfacial stability with cathode, high F− conductivity (2.05 mS cm−1), and transference number (0.53). After matching CuF2 cathode and Pb anode, the full cell exhibits the highly reversible conversion reaction process with an initial discharge capacity of 300.8 mAh g−1 and a reversible capacity of 245.5 mAh g−1 after 43 cycles. This study proposes a solution to high‐performance rechargeable FIBs at room temperature by synergistically manipulating the anionic and cationic solvation chemistry.
Additive Technologies and Materials for the Next‐Generation CubeSats and Small Satellites
Authors: Levchenko Igor , Baranov Oleg , Keidar Michael , Riccardi Claudia , Roman H.Eduardo , Xu Shuyan , Alexander Katia
Published: July 2024

CubeSat and small satellites play a very important role in modern space exploration. Their success and diverse capabilities rely on the development of efficient and compact sub‐systems. This task is not trivial due to multiple challenges posed by their small size and mass, and the solution calls for conceptually new designs for the fabrication and integration of complex miniaturized satellite components. The importance of additive techniques in small satellite manufacturing is steadily increasing as they enable rapid, large‐scale production of sophisticated architectures, such as hollow, webbed parts with a cell‐like structure similar to animal bone, with lower mass and improved functionality. Moreover, these architectures feature higher strength, enhanced heat transfer, and efficient thermal and electromagnetic radiation shielding. When compared to traditional subtractive technologies like cutting and milling, additive manufacturing proves to be more versatile and effective in realizing architectures with an increasing intricacy of shapes, structures, and compositions. The perspective explores the suitability of 3D printing in various satellite production tasks, including the propulsion system components and satellite elements. Looking ahead, the challenges and advantages of integrating 3D printing technology into satellite production, emphasizing the need for continuous development through consolidated, proactive collaborative efforts of many devoted teams are outlined.
Harnessing Coordination‐Assisted Surface Functionalization for Ligand‐Induced Growth of Ultrafine Metal Nanoparticles on MXene
Authors: Yang Eunyeong , Park Ki Hong , Lee Juyun , Oh Taegon , Ko Tae Yun , Kim Seon Joon
Published: July 2024

The synthesis of ultrafine metal nanoparticles and their integration onto 2D nanomaterials have attracted significant interest due to their outstanding chemical and electrochemical activity. Among 2D materials, MXenes have emerged as promising candidates for hybridization owing to their abundant surface nucleation sites and high electrical conductivity. However, achieving uniform growth of ultrafine metal nanoparticles on MXene surfaces remains a challenge due to non‐uniform metal nucleation and growth behaviors. In this study, a novel coordination‐assisted surface functionalization method is presented to graft organic ligands onto MXene, promoting the uniform growth of ultrafine metal nanoparticles. By leveraging the mutual attraction between metal ions, organic ligands, and MXene surface functional groups, MXene surfaces are efficiently functionalized through palladium coordination complexes. Subsequent ligand‐induced growth facilitated the uniform nucleation of ultrafine metal nanoparticles, resulting in densely anchored nanoparticles of 1–3 nm in size on MXene. Comprehensive characterizations reveal the effectiveness of the method, demonstrating exceptional properties of the MXene‐metal nanoparticle hybrid, particularly in hydrogen sensing applications. This study highlights the potential of coordination‐assisted surface functionalization for the controlled synthesis of MXene‐based nanomaterials with tailored properties for diverse applications.
Environmentally Stable and Highly Crystalline MXenes for Multispectral Electromagnetic Shielding up to Millimeter Waves
Authors: Iqbal Aamir , Kwon Jisung , Hassan Tufail , Park Sang Woon , Lee Won‐Hee , Oh Jung‐Min , Hong Junpyo , Lee Juyun , Naqvi Shabbir Madad , Zafar Ujala , Kim Seon Joon , Park Jong Hyuk , Kim Myung‐Ki , Koo Chong Min
Published: July 2024

Advanced electronics and telecommunication devices rely on electromagnetic (EM) waves of a wide frequency range during their operation, thereby necessitating the development of efficient and ultrathin materials for electromagnetic interference (EMI) shielding across multispectral EM waves, particularly those exceeding 100 GHz, equivalent to millimeter wavelengths. Here, this study reveals that highly crystalline Ti3C2TxMXene exhibits excellent EMI shielding performance across a multispectral frequency range from 100 kHz to 110 GHz, along with outstanding environmental stability and processability for solution coating and film fabrication. Notably, the highly crystalline Ti3C2TxMXene films exhibit the highest electrical conductivity (18,000 S cm−1) and remarkable environmental stability (maintaining >95% electrical conductivity over one year), coupled with effective EMI shielding (up to 106 dB at 110 GHz with an ultrathin thickness of 10 µm), surpassing five other MXenes, including Nb2CTx, V2CTx, conv.‐Ti3C2Tx, Ti3CNTx, and Mo2Ti2C3Tx, and different synthetic materials. Furthermore, increasing the thickness, electrical conductivity, and frequency enhances the shielding performance. These results demonstrate the potential of applying MXenes to next‐generation portable electronics, radar systems, and autonomous vehicles. This study also provides insight into the fundamental shielding mechanisms related to material thickness, electrical conductivity, and frequency of EM waves.
Electrical Stimulating Redox Membrane Incorporated with PVA/Gelatin Nanofiber for Diabetic Wound Healing
Authors: Kim Jeong‐Uk , Ko Junghyeon , Kim Ye‐sol , Jung Minwoong , Jang Myoung‐Hoon , An Young‐Hyeon , Hwang Nathaniel S.
Published: July 2024

Chronic wounds adversely affect the quality of life. Although electrical stimulation has been utilized to treat chronic wounds, there are still limitations to practicing it due to the complicated power system. Herein, an electrostimulating membrane incorporated with electrospun nanofiber (M‐sheet) to treat diabetic wounds is developed. Through the screen printing method, the various alternate patterns of both Zn and AgCl on a polyurethane substrate, generating redox‐mediated electrical fields are introduced. The antibacterial ability of the patterned membrane against both E. coli and S. aureus is confirmed. Furthermore, the poly(vinyl alcohol) (PVA)/gelatin electrospun fiber is incorporated into the patterned membrane to enhance biocompatibility and maintain the wet condition in the wound environment. The M‐sheet can improve cell proliferation and migration in vitro and has an immune regulatory effect by inducing the polarization of macrophage to the M2 phenotype. Finally, when applied to a diabetic skin wound model, the M‐sheet displays an accelerated wound healing rate and enhances re‐epithelialization, collagen synthesis, and angiogenesis. It suggests that the M‐sheet is a simple and portable system for the spontaneous generation of electrical stimulation and has great potential to be used in the practical wound and other tissue engineering applications.
Observation of Anapole Resonances in Lithium Niobate Metasurfaces with Significantly Enhanced Second Harmonic Generation
Authors: Liu Yunan , Wang Bo , Hu Leyong , Li Chensheng , Ji Xu , Geng Guangzhou , Pan Ruhao , Yang Haifang , Li Junjie
Published: July 2024

Benefiting from their large second‐order nonlinear coefficients and high integration capabilities, crystalline lithium niobate (LN) films have shown great application prospects in the field of nonlinear metasurfaces. It is necessary to endow LN metasurfaces with optical resonances to further boost nonlinear optical responses. Among these optical resonances, anapole resonances carried by LN metasurfaces have been predicted to efficiently enhance second harmonic generations (SHG) but have never been experimentally realized. Anapole resonance requires ideal nanostructures to have steep sidewalls and a high filling ratio, but the intrinsic hardness and inert chemical properties of LN materials pose great challenges for the fabrication of LN nanostructures. Here, a multi‐gas component dry‐etching technique is proposed to prepare various LN nanostructures, achieving typical LN nanopillar arrays with a sidewall angle of ≈85° at a depth of 300 nm and a filling ratio of 52%. Importantly, nanostructured LN metasurfaces are designed and fabricated to experimentally realize anapole resonances at a fundamental wavelength of ≈800 nm, demonstrating a ≈30‐fold enhancement in second harmonic generation compared with bare LN films. The work provides promising strategies for the versatile fabrication of LN nanostructures and their applications in nonlinear meta‐optics.
Tunable Ion Conductivity in Defect‐Controlled Graphene Nanochannels
Authors: Cui Yang‐Jun , Gao Long , Ying Cuifeng , Tian Jian‐Guo , Liu Zhi‐Bo
Published: July 2024

Many novel transport phenomena are observed in graphene nanochannels with ultrahigh surface flatness and nano‐ or sub‐nanoscale constraints. Two critical physical parameters, surface slip length, and surface charge, play a vital role in the channel transport process. However, effectively controlling these parameters under such tight constraints remains a significant challenge. Here, it is developed a novel method that combines oxygen ion etching and layer‐by‐layer assembly of 2D material, to prepare graphene nanochannels. During the assembly process, defects are introduced into the graphene surface via oxygen ion etching. A significantly higher conductivity is observed for the pristine graphene channels compared to those with defects on both the upper and lower surfaces. Consistent with this observation, the conductivity of graphene channels with defects on only one surface falls between the two aforementioned values. Combined with theoretical analysis, the conductivity difference is attributed to the surface slip inhibition due to the introduced defects, and the change of surface charge, both caused by oxygen ion etching. By introducing defects, a new method is uncovered for fine‐tuning ion transport in graphene nanochannels.
Direct Recycling at the Material Level: Unravelling Challenges and Opportunities through a Case Study on Spent Ni‐Rich Layered Oxide‐Based Cathodes
Authors: Gnutzmann Maike Michelle , Makvandi Ardavan , Ying Bixian , Buchmann Julius , Lüther Marco Joes , Helm Bianca , Nagel Peter , Peterlechner Martin , Wilde Gerhard , Gomez‐Martin Aurora , Kleiner Karin , Winter Martin , Kasnatscheew Johannes
Published: July 2024

Direct recycling is a key technology for enabling a circular economy of spent lithium ion batteries (LIBs). For cathode active materials (CAMs), it is regarded as the tightest closed‐loop and most efficient approach among current recycling techniques as it simply proceeds via re‐lithiation and reconstruction of aged CAMs instead of separating them into elemental components. In this work, spent, i.e., morphologically and structurally decomposed CAM based on LiNi0.83Co0.12Mn0.05O2 (NCM‐831205) is restored by mimicking conditions of original CAM synthesis. After evaluating and optimizing the high‐temperature duration for CAM restoration and subsequent washing procedure, the recycled CAM is shown to maintain poly‐crystallinity and tap density, successfully recover specific surface area, lithium content, crystal structure in surface and bulk, while, however, only partly the original secondary particle size and shape. Though, comparable in initial 100 charge/discharge cycles with pristine CAM in lithium ion‐cells, the subsequent increase in resistance and capacity fading remains a challenge. High temperature during recycling can be regarded as a key challenge on material level, as it not only promotes detrimental surface carbonate species from residual carbon black but also enhances cation disorder and micro‐/nanoscopic porosity through oxygen release, likely in de‐lithiated, thus less thermally stable regions of cycled NCM.
Plastid genome evolution in leafless members of the orchid subfamily Orchidoideae, with a focus on Degranvillea dermaptera
Authors: Barrett Craig F. , Pace Matthew C. , Corbett Cameron W.
Published: July 2024

Premise

Leafless, heterotrophic plants are prime examples of organismal modification, the genomic consequences of which have received considerable interest. In particular, plastid genomes (plastomes) are being sequenced at a high rate, allowing continual refinement of conceptual models of reductive evolution in heterotrophs. However, numerous sampling gaps exist, hindering the ability to conduct comprehensive phylogenomic analyses in these plants.

Methods

Using floral tissue from an herbarium specimen, we sequenced and analyzed the plastome of Degranvillea dermaptera, a rarely collected, leafless orchid species from South America about which little is known, including its phylogenetic affinities.

Results

The plastome is the most reduced of those sequenced among the orchid subfamily Orchidoideae. In Degranvillea, it has lost the majority of genes found in leafy autotrophic species, is structurally rearranged, and has similar gene content to the most reduced plastomes among the orchids. We found strong evidence for the placement of Degranvillea within the subtribe Spiranthinae using models that explicitly account for heterotachy, or lineage‐specific evolutionary rate variation over time. We further found evidence of relaxed selection on several genes and of correlations among substitution rates and several other “traits” of the plastome among leafless members of orchid subfamily Orchidoideae.

Conclusions

Our findings advance knowledge on the phylogenetic relationships and paths of plastid genome evolution among the orchids, which have experienced more independent transitions to heterotrophy than any other plant family. This study demonstrates the importance of herbarium collections in comparative genomics of poorly known species of conservation concern.
Suicides among construction workers in the United States, 2021
Authors: Harris William , Trueblood Amber B. , Yohannes Thomas , Rodman Christopher P. , Rinehart Rick
Published: July 2024

Background

Construction workers have the second highest suicide death rate; despite this, there is limited literature examining suicides in the industry, which is necessary to identify those at higher risk of death by suicide. The objective of this study was to examine the characteristics of those who died by suicide in construction to address this knowledge gap.

Methods

Data from the National Center for Health Statistics National Vital Statistics System 2021 public use Mortality Multiple Cause‐of‐Death file were used to identify deaths by suicide, while denominator data for rates come from the 2021 Current Population Survey.

Results

In 2021, construction workers were disproportionately affected by suicide deaths. Almost a fifth (17.9%) of deaths by suicide with a reported industry code were in construction, despite construction workers accounting for only 7.4% of the workforce. Male construction workers accounted for a majority (97.8%) of suicide deaths. The highest percent of deaths by suicide were among individuals who were white, non‐Hispanic, completed high school or equivalent, and single, across construction and all industries for males and females.

Discussion and Conclusions

Male and female construction workers had the highest rates of suicide across all characteristics when compared to all industries. Our findings support the need for ongoing prevention efforts within the industry. Future research is needed to understand suicide risk among certain characteristics and occupations. In addition, the work environment or other work‐related factors should be studied to understand how the unique nature of the construction industry may be associated with higher suicide rates.
Highly Dispersed Pd‐CeOx Nanoparticles in Zeolite Nanosheets for Efficient CO2‐Mediated Hydrogen Storage and Release
Authors: Li Chengxu , He Guangyuan , Qu Ziqiang , Zhang Kai , Guo Liwen , Zhang Tianjun , Zhang Jichao , Sun Qiming , Mei Donghai , Yu Jihong
Published: July 2024

Formic acid (FA) dehydrogenation and CO2 hydrogenation to FA/formate represent promising methodologies for the efficient and clean storage and release of hydrogen, forming a CO2‐neutral energy cycle. Here, we report the synthesis of highly dispersed and stable bimetallic Pd‐based nanoparticles, immobilized on self‐pillared silicalite‐1 (SP‐S‐1) zeolite nanosheets using an incipient wetness co‐impregnation technique. Owing to the highly accessible active sites, effective mass transfer, exceptional hydrophilicity, and the synergistic effect of the bimetallic species, the optimized PdCe0.2/SP‐S‐1 catalyst demonstrated unparalleled catalytic performance in both FA dehydrogenation and CO2 hydrogenation to formate. Remarkably, it achieved a hydrogen generation rate of 5974 molH2 molPd−1 h−1 and a formate production rate of 536 molformate molPd−1 h−1 at 50 °C, surpassing most previously reported heterogeneous catalysts under similar conditions. Density functional theory calculations reveal that the interfacial effect between Pd and cerium oxide clusters substantially reduces the activation barriers for both reactions, thereby increasing the catalytic performance. Our research not only showcases a compelling application of zeolite nanosheet‐supported bimetallic nanocatalysts in CO2‐mediated hydrogen storage and release but also contributes valuable insights towards the development of safe, efficient, and sustainable hydrogen technologies.
Wiring Covalent Organic Frameworks with Conducting Polymers
Authors: Gong Yifan , Deng Lejian , Xu Xiaoyi , Liu Ruoyang , Li Juan , Huang Ning , Jiang Donglin
Published: July 2024

Covalent organic frameworks are a class of crystalline porous polymers formed by linking organic units into periodically aligned skeletons and pores. Here we report a strategy for wiring these frameworks with conducting polymers via wall engineering and polymerization. We anchored each edge site with one pyrrole unit, which is densely packed along the z direction yet protruded from pore walls. This assembly enables the polymerization of pyrrole units to form polypyrrole and creates a new polypyrrole chain conformation. The resultant framework constitutes six single file polypyrrole chains in each pore and develop spatially segregated yet built‐in single molecular wires with exceptional stable polarons. Hall effect measurements revealed that the materials are p‐type semiconductors, increase conductivity by eight orders of magnitude compared to the pristine frameworks, and achieve a carrier mobility as large as 13.2 cm2 V−1 s−1. Our results open an avenue to π electronic frameworks by interlayer molecular wiring with conducting polymers.
Circularly Polarized Phosphorescence Energy Transfer Combined with Chirality‐Selective Absorption for Modulating Full‐Color and White Circularly Polarized Long Afterglow
Authors: Yang Kai , Zhang Run , Liu Yanze , Zhao Biao , Wu Youping , Deng Jianping
Published: July 2024

Circularly polarized long afterglow (CPLA) attracts great interests in multi‐disciplinary fields with significant potentials in optical multiplexing applications, but achieving full‐color and white CPLA is still challenging. The present contribution reports the first success in utilizing circularly polarized phosphorescence energy transfer (CPP‐ET) combined with chirality‐selective absorption (CSA) to construct full‐color and white CPLA materials. Blue CPLA with luminescence dissymmetry factor (glum) of 3×10−2 is firstly obtained via the CSA effect of chiral helical polyacetylene and blue ultralong afterglow of inorganic phosphor BP. Significantly, full‐color and white CPLA films are prepared by simply blending different fluorophores into the blue‐CPLA films via CPP‐ET. Benefited from the persistent luminescence of BP, the lifetimes of the fluorophores increase from nanoseconds to minutes, and ultralong full‐color CPLA emissions lasting for more than 20 min are realized with glum of 10−3. Also noticeably, chiral optoelectronic devices, multi‐dimension information encryption and chiral logic gate are developed based on the full‐color tunable CPLA‐active materials. The established strategy provides a universal platform for future development of CPLA‐active materials with great applications.
Appendicular myology of Skorpiovenator bustingorryi: A first attempt to reconstruct pelvic and hindlimb musculature in an abelisaurid theropod
Authors: Cerroni Mauricio A. , Otero Alejandro , Novas Fernando E.
Published: July 2024

We present the pelvic and hindlimb musculature of the abelisaurid Skorpiovenator bustingorryi, constituting the most comprehensive muscle reconstruction to date in ceratosaur theropods. Using extant phylogenetic bracket method, we reconstructed 39 muscles that can commonly found in extant archosaurs. Through the identification of bone correlates, we recognized thigh and hindlimb muscles including knee extensors, m. iliofibularis, m. flexor tibialis externus, mm. caudofemorales, mm. puboischiofemorales, and crus muscles important in foot extension and flexion (e.g., m. tibialis anterior, mm. gastrocnemii). Also, autopodial intrinsic muscles were reconstructed whose function involve extension (m. extensor digiti 2–4), flexion (mm. flexor digitorum brevis superficialis), interdigital adduction (m. interosseus dorsalis) and abduction (m. interosseous plantaris, m. abductor 4). Abelisaurids like Skorpiovenator show a deep pre‐ and postacetabular blade of the ilia and enlarged cnemial crests, which would have helped increasing the moment arm of muscles related to hip flexion and hindlimb extension. Also, pedal muscles related to pronation were probably present but reduced (e.g., m. pronator profundus). Despite some gross differences in the autopodial morphology in extant outgroups (e.g., crocodilian metatarsus and avian tarsometatarsus), the present study allows us to hypothesize several pedal muscles in Skorpiovenator. These muscles would not be arranged in tendinous bundles as in Neornithes, but rather the condition would be similar to that of crocodilians with several layers formed by fleshy bellies on the plantar and dorsal aspects of the metatarsus. The musculature of Skorpiovenator is key for future studies concerning abelisaurid biomechanics, including the integration of functional morphology and ichnological data.
Effect of CNT Oxidation on the Processing and Properties of Superacid‐Spun CNT Fibers
Authors: Cheng Kang , Cheng Lingzhi , Jiang Xinrong , Wang Zeyuan , Pan Jingyi , Fang Na , Zhang Ziyi , Qu Shuxuan , Lyu Weibang
Published: July 2024

Spinning fibers from carbon nanotube (CNT)/superacid dispersions has emerged as a promising strategy for industrial‐scale production of high‐performance CNT fibers (CNTFs). The oxygen content and types of functional groups on CNT surfaces significantly influence dispersion, assembly processes, and fiber properties. In this study, Tuball‐SWCNTs were purified and oxidized at varying levels. The dispersion behavior of CNTs with different oxidation levels in chlorosulfonic acid was systematically observed, and the mechanical properties of fibers spun from these dispersions were compared. By adjusting the dispersion concentration, highly oriented CNTFs were produced with a specific strength of 1.03 N/tex, a tensile strength of 1.59 GPa, and an electrical conductivity of 3.58 MS/m. Further investigations indicated that oxygen‐containing functional groups decrease the coagulation rate, increasing the maximum draw ratio during spinning and improving CNT alignment in the fibers. Molecular dynamics simulations demonstrated that these functional groups (−OH, ‐COOH) enhance load transfer between CNTs through hydrogen bonding. This specific strength is the highest achieved using Tuball‐SWCNTs for superacid‐spun fibers, surpassing previous works due to the oxidation‐controlled coagulation rate, enhanced fiber orientation, and improved load transfer via hydrogen bonding. This study provides insights for designing and optimizing high‐performance CNTFs.
Profound interdecadal variability of the summer precipitation over the upper reaches of the Yangtze River Basin
Authors: Deng Mengyu , Li Chaofan , Lu Riyu , Dunstone Nick J. , Bett Philip E. , Xiao Miaoyuan
Published: July 2024

The upper reaches of the Yangtze River Basin (UYRB) are famous for their hydropower generation and water resources in China, relying greatly on precipitation. The UYRB summer precipitation has decreased since the early 2000s and has been exposed to a particularly dry period in the most recent two decades. By analyzing the long‐term variability from the beginning of the 20th Century, we found that the precipitation exhibits a profound periodic interdecadal variation, with a significant cycle of 30–50 years. The interdecadal variability of precipitation is shown to be significantly modulated by both the Atlantic Multidecadal Oscillation (AMO) and Pacific Decadal Oscillation (PDO), exerting their impact through related circulation anomalies. Moreover, the periodical nature of the UYRB precipitation variation and its correlation with AMO/PDO suggest that the UYRB might enter a wet period in the forthcoming decade, i.e. rich in hydroelectric resources but a high risk of flood.
Exome sequencing identifies novel genes underlying primary congenital glaucoma in the National Birth Defects Prevention Study
Authors: Blue Elizabeth E. , Moore Kristin J. , North Kari E. , Desrosiers Tania A. , Carmichael Suzan L. , White Janson J. , Chong Jessica X. , Bamshad Michael J. , Jenkins Mary M. , Almli Lynn M. , Brody Lawrence C. , Freedman Sharon F. , Reefhuis Jennita , Romitti Paul A. , Shaw Gary M. , Werler Martha , Kay Denise M. , Browne Marilyn L. , Feldkamp Marcia L. , Finnell Richard H. , Nembhard Wendy N. , Pangilinan Faith , Olshan Andrew F. ,   the National Institutes of Health Intramural Sequencing Center,   the University of Washington Center for Mendelian Genomics,   the National Birth Defects Prevention Study
Published: July 2024

Background

Primary congenital glaucoma (PCG) affects approximately 1 in 10,000 live born infants in the United States (U.S.). PCG has a autosomal recessive inheritance pattern, and variable expressivity and reduced penetrance have been reported. Likely causal variants in the most commonly mutated gene, CYP1B1, are less prevalent in the U.S., suggesting that alternative genes may contribute to the condition. This study utilized exome sequencing to investigate the genetic architecture of PCG in the U.S. and to identify novel genes and variants.

Methods

We studied 37 family trios where infants had PCG and were part of the National Birth Defects Prevention Study (births 1997–2011), a U.S. multicenter study of birth defects. Samples underwent exome sequencing and sequence reads were aligned to the human reference sample (NCBI build 37/hg19). Variant filtration was conducted under de novo and Mendelian inheritance models using GEMINI.

Results

Among candidate variants, CYP1B1 was most represented (five trios, 13.5%). Twelve probands (32%) had potentially pathogenic variants in other genes not previously linked to PCG but important in eye development and/or to underlie Mendelian conditions with potential phenotypic overlap (e.g., CRYBB2, RXRA, GLI2).

Conclusion

Variation in the genes identified in this population‐based study may help to further explain the genetics of PCG.
Streamlined screening of extracellularly expressed PETase libraries for improved polyethylene terephthalate degradation
Authors: Orr Guy , Niv Yoav , Barakat Maya , Boginya Alexandra , Dessau Moshe , Afriat‐Jurnou Livnat
Published: July 2024

Enzyme‐mediated polyethylene terephthalate (PET) depolymerization has recently emerged as a sustainable solution for PET recycling. Towards an industrial‐scale implementation of this technology, various strategies are being explored to enhance PET depolymerization (PETase) activity and improve enzyme stability, expression, and purification processes. Recently, rational engineering of a known PET hydrolase (LCC—leaf compost cutinase) has resulted in the isolation of a variant harboring four‐point mutations (LCC‐ICCG), presenting increased PETase activity and thermal stability. Here, we revealed the enzyme's natural extracellular expression and used it to efficiently screen error‐prone genetic libraries based on LCC‐ICCG for enhanced activity toward consumer‐grade PET. Following multiple rounds of mutagenesis and screening, we successfully isolated variants that exhibited up to a 60% increase in PETase activity. Among other mutations, the improved variants showed a histidine to tyrosine substitution at position 218, a residue known to be involved in substrate binding and stabilization. Introducing H218Y mutation on the background of LCC‐ICCG (named here LCC‐ICCG/H218Y) resulted in a similar level of activity improvement. Analysis of the solved structure of LCC‐ICCG/H218Y compared to other known PETases featuring different amino acids at the equivalent position suggests that H218Y substitution promotes enhanced PETase activity. The expression and screening processes developed in this study can be further used to optimize additional enzymatic parameters crucial for efficient enzymatic degradation of consumer‐grade PET.
Comparable cerebral cortex activity and gait performance in elderly hypertensive and healthy individuals during dual‐task walking: A fNIRS study
Authors: Yao Qiuru , Chen Ling , Qu Hang , Fan Weichao , He Longlong , Li Gege , Hu Jinjing , Zou Jihua , Huang Guozhi , Zeng Qing
Published: July 2024

Background

Hypertension increases the risk of cognitive impairment and related dementia, causing impaired executive function and unusual gait parameters. However, the mechanism of neural function illustrating this is unclear. Our research aimed to explore the differences of cerebral cortex activation, gait parameters, and working memory performance between healthy older adults (HA) and older hypertensive (HT) patients when performing cognitive and walking tasks.

Method

A total of 36 subjects, including 12 healthy older adults and 24 older hypertensive patients were asked to perform series conditions including single cognitive task (SC), single walking task (SW), and dual‐task (DT), wearing functional near‐infrared spectroscopy (fNIRS) equipment and Intelligent Device for Energy Expenditure and Activity equipment to record cortical hemodynamic reactions and various gait parameters.

Results

The left somatosensory cortex (L‐S1) and bilateral supplementary motor area (SMA) showed higher cortical activation (p < .05) than HA when HT performed DT. The intragroup comparison showed that HT had higher cortical activation (p < .05) when performing DT as SW. The cognitive performance of HT was significantly worse (p < .05) than HA when executing SC. The activation of the L‐S1, L‐M1, and bilateral SMA in HT were significantly higher during SW (p < .05).

Conclusion

Hypertension can lead to cognitive impairment in the elderly, including executive function and walking function decline. As a result of these functional declines, elderly patients with hypertension are unable to efficiently allocate brain resources to support more difficult cognitive interference tasks and need to meet more complex task demands by activating more brain regions.
Chrysin Enhances Anti‐Cancer Activity of Jurkat T Cell and NK‐92 Cells Against Human Breast Cancer Cell Lines
Authors: Durmus Ezgi , Ozman Zeynep , Ceyran Ibrahim Halil , Pasin Ozge , Kocyigit Abdurrahim
Published: July 2024

Chrysin, a naturally occurring flavonoid in plant and bee products, demonstrates notable biological activities, including anti‐cancer effects. These properties are partially attributed to its capability to activate immune cells. This study focused on exploring the immunomodulatory potential of chrysin on NK‐92 and Jurkat‐T cells targeting breast cancer cells (BCC). Chrysin leads to activation of NK‐92 and T cells facilitated by the addition of human recombinant IL‐2 and PHA−M. The anti‐cancer efficacy of chrysin on these immune cells was evaluated in a co‐culture setup with EGF‐stimulated MCF‐7 and MDA‐MB‐231 cells. Findings revealed that chrysin notably increased the cytotoxicity of NK‐92 and T cells towards MCF‐7 and MDA‐MB‐231 cells, with the most significant impact observed on MCF‐7 cells (20 %). The activation of NK‐92 cells, marked by increased IFN‐γ production and CD56 expression, correlated with enhanced secretion of cytokines. Additionally, the activation of these cells against BCC was linked with elevated levels of granzyme‐B, TNF‐α, and nitric oxide (NO). Similarly, the cytotoxic activation of Jurkat‐T cells against BCC was characterized by increased production of granzyme‐B, IL‐2, and IFN‐γ. Consequently, these results support the hypothesis that chrysin significantly contributes to the activation and functional enhancement of NK‐92 and T‐cells against two distinct BCC lines.
The Conformational Behaviour of Fluorinated Tetrahydrothiopyran
Authors: Egbaria Nwar , Agbaria Mohamed , Borin Veniamin A. , Hoffman Roy E. , Bogoslavsky Benny , Schapiro Igor , Nairoukh Zackaria
Published: July 2024

We present a comprehensive study on the conformational behavior of diversely substituted 4‐fluorotetrahydrothiopyran derivatives. Through quantum chemical simulations including DFT as well as NBO and NPA analysis, we elucidate the pivotal role of electrostatic interactions, occasionally complemented by hyperconjugative interactions, in stabilizing axial fluorine conformers. Less polar conformers were occasionally obtained, attributed to the interplay of electrostatic and hyperconjugative interactions. Experimental validation through NMR spectroscopy aligns with the computational analysis, thus providing a coherent understanding of the structural dynamics of these compounds.
Dual‐frequency three‐dimensional wireless power transfer system to achieve two‐channel independent maximum power transfer
Authors: Dan Hanbing , Chao Yuqian , Liu Zixi , Liu Xueqing , Zhu Qi , Su Mei
Published: July 2024

This paper proposes a dual‐frequency three‐dimensional wireless power transfer system, which can achieve dual channel independent maximum power transfer of two movable receivers. Based on the dual‐frequency compensation network, a dual‐frequency magnetic field orientation strategy and a current control strategy are developed. Accordingly, the mathematical model of the proposed system is established, providing the theoretical support for mutual non‐interference of the power transfer between the two power transfer channels with different frequencies. On this basis, an iterative optimization control system is designed for independent maximum power transfer for two power transfer channels without any interference. A 200‐W experimental prototype with an efficiency of around 80% is built to verify the correctness of the proposed system. In the case of load position change, the response time of the proposed system is around 200 ms.
Synthesis of an Organotin S‐thiobenzoylthioglycolate Complex and its Application as a Single Source Precursor to SnS2 Thin Film
Authors: Pratap Rajesh , Rai Sajal , Srivastava Anchal , Bhattacharya Subrato
Published: July 2024

S‐thiobenzoylthioglycolic acid possessing two sulfur and two oxygen atoms was used to synthesize an oxoorganotin(IV) carboxylate molecule, [BuSn(O)(O2CCH2SC(S)Ph)]6. The molecule is a hexanuclear cluster that has been characterized structurally by single‐crystal X‐ray diffraction analysis. The complex was used as a single‐source precursor to prepare a thin film of SnS2 by the chemical vapor deposition technique. The distinct triangular formations of SnS2 were characterized by spectral and microscopic measurements. Well‐defined boundaries and considerable sizes of SnS2 structures have been identified.
Phenyl Substituted Cyclo(meta)polyphenylenes: One More Step Towards the Total Synthesis of Diameter‐Controlled Zig‐Zag Carbon Nanotubes
Authors: Nasser Moussa Bamba Abdoul , Ben Saida Ali , Abdellah Ibrahim , Latil Sylvain , Guérineau Vincent , Gallard Jean‐François , Huc Vincent
Published: July 2024

The calixarene‐templated synthesis of new cyclo(meta‐ polyphenylenes (CMPs) is described. These compounds are functionalized with added aromatic units, that are suitably oriented for oxidative aromatization to be envisioned. This could pave the way towards the synthesis of elongated segments of zigzag‐type single‐walled carbon nanotubes (SWCNTs).
Numerical study on effect of hybrid nanofluid as a passive heat transfer enhancement technique and different climates on thermal performance in a linear Fresnel collector
Authors: Salehi Najmeh , Lavasani Arash Mirabdolah , Mehdipour Ramin , Yazdi Mohammad Eftekhari
Published: July 2024

A notable distinction in this research is the utilization of a new method for calculating critical heat flux (CHF) based on a Look‐Up Table. The present study comprehensively investigates the effects of hybrid nanofluid, a type of passive heat transfer enhancement technique, on convection heat transfer coefficients and CHF. The study covers five different climates representing significant climate conditions in Iran, namely Bandar Abbas, Esfahan, Shiraz, Tehran, and Yazd, each with different solar irradiations. The nanoparticles considered in this study include silver, nickel, and aluminum, as well as Ag‐Au hybrid nanofluid with volumetric concentrations of 0.1%, 0.3%, 0.5%, 1%, and 2%. The modeling results reveal that the heat transfer coefficient increases with the volumetric concentration of nanoparticles. According to the results, at the CHF point for 2 vol% Ag–Au hybrid nanofluid and Ag, Ni, and Al nanoparticles, the heat transfer coefficient shows an increase of 28%, 11.5%, 10.6%, and 4.9%, respectively, compared to the results for pure water in Shiraz. Despite the acceptable results and effective performance of 2 vol% Ag–Au hybrid nanofluid for a linear Fresnel reflector, economically, 2 vol% nickel nanoparticles are identified as the most suitable choice.
Adsorption mechanism and electrochemical properties of disperse blue 2BLN onto magnetic Cu0.2Zn0.3Co0.5Fe2O4 nanoparticles prepared via the rapid combustion process
Authors: Zhou Wenjun , Lv Zhixiang , Wang Yao , Luo Sheng , Zhou Dan , Su Guodong
Published: July 2024

Magnetic Cu0.2Zn0.3Co0.5Fe2O4 nanoparticles were prepared by the rapid combustion method and characterized by scanning electron microscope (SEM), energy dispersive spectroscopy (EDS), x‐ray diffraction (XRD), and vibrating sample magnetometer (VSM). The average particle size and the saturation magnetization of the nanoparticles prepared at 400°C with 25 mL absolute alcohol were about 60.9 nm and 50 emu/g. The results of the experiment displayed that the adsorption process agreed with the pseudo‐second‐order kinetics model (R2 > 0.98) and Langmuir isotherm model (R2 = 0.9982), indicating that the adsorption of DB‐2BLN onto magnetic Cu0.2Zn0.3Co0.5Fe2O4 nanoparticles was monolayer chemisorption. ΔH (ΔH = −28.0135 kJ/mol) of the thermodynamic experiment was less than 0, indicating that the adsorption was an exothermic process. The effects of pH, initial concentration of dye, ionic strength, temperature, and adsorbent dosage on the adsorption process of DB‐2BLN onto magnetic Cu0.2Zn0.3Co0.5Fe2O4 nanoparticles and the regeneration performance of the nanoparticles were investigated. When the pH was determined to be 2 and the adsorbent dosage was 5 mg, the adsorption capacity reached the maximum. After 7 cycles, the removal rate of DB‐2BLN still reached 92.6% of that for the first adsorption, showing excellent regeneration performance. Finally, the electrochemical properties of the magnetic Cu0.2Zn0.3Co0.5Fe2O4 nanoparticles were investigated by cyclic voltammetry (CV) and electrochemical impedance spectroscopy (EIS).
Physiology, Biochemistry, and Transcriptomics Jointly Reveal the Phytotoxicity Mechanism of Acetochlor on Pisum sativum L.
Authors: Ma Tingfeng , Ma Lei , Wei Ruonan , Xu Ling , Ma Yantong , Chen Zhen , Dang Junhong , Ma Shaoying , Li Sheng
Published: July 2024

Acetochlor, as a commonly used pre-emergent herbicide, can be toxic to crops and affect production if used improperly. However, the toxic mechanism of acetochlor on plants is not fully understood. The present study used a combination of transcriptomic analysis and physiological measurements to investigate the effects of short-term (15-day) exposure to different concentrations of acetochlor (1, 10, 20 mg/kg) on the morphology, physiology, and transcriptional levels of pea seedlings, aiming to elucidate the toxic response and resistance mechanisms in pea seedlings under herbicide stress. The results showed that the toxicity of acetochlor to pea seedlings was dose-dependent, manifested as dwarfing and stem base browning with increasing concentrations, especially at 10 mg/kg and above. Analysis of the antioxidant system showed that from the 1 mg/kg treatment, malondialdehyde, superoxide dismutase, peroxidase, and glutathione peroxidase in peas increased with increasing concentrations of acetochlor, indicating oxidative damage. Analysis of the glutathione (GSH) metabolism system showed that under 10 mg/kg treatment, the GSH content of pea plants significantly increased, and GSH transferase activity and gene expression were significantly induced, indicating a detoxification response in plants. Transcriptomic analysis showed that after acetochlor treatment, differentially expressed genes in peas were significantly enriched in the phenylpropane metabolic pathway, and the levels of key metabolites (flavonoids and lignin) were increased. In addition, we found that acetochlor-induced dwarfing of pea seedlings may be related to gibberellin signal transduction. Environ Toxicol Chem 2024;43:2005–2019. © 2024 SETAC