bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Evaluation of spherulite growth in PHB‐based systems – A DoE approach
Authors: Majerczak Katarzyna , Liggat John 
Published: July 2023

AbstractFormulations based on poly(hydroxybutyrate) (PHB) and poly(hydroxybutyrate‐co‐valerate) were studied to statistically assess the importance of process parameters (temperature) and chemistry in filled and/or plasticized PHB‐based formulations on spherulite growth rate (SGR) and nucleation density (ND). It was found that in binary systems, addition of a plasticizer results in shift of the maximum SGR towards lower temperatures, with the value of the shift dependent on polymer‐plasticizer compatibility. The presence of the filler does not significantly influence SGR, instead resulting in ND changes dependent on filler chemistry, with Cloisite Ca++ showing the strongest nucleating action in all formulations among fillers studied. In ternary systems, statistical analysis shows that SGR strongly depends on the crystallization temperature (Tc), plasticizer type and concentration, and hydroxyvalerate content in the polymer chain while being independent of the presence and chemistry of the filler in the system. ND has, however, proven to be dependent on all investigated parameters, including both filler type and its concentration, with Tc being the most important factor. These results expand the understanding of factors controlling crystallization in polymer systems and provide an initial set of design tools that can be used to control mechanical properties in new generations of packaging materials.
Effect of homemade PON compounded with expanded graphite ratio on flame retardancy of polystyrene resin
Authors: Wang Xianting , Tu Hongyi , Xue Guoming , Gu Guangxin 
Published: July 2023

AbstractIn this paper, diphenyl phosphoryl chloride and anhydrous piperazine are used as raw materials to prepare a kind of homemade flame retardant (PON) with P‐N synergistic effect by nucleophilic substitution reaction. The properties of polystyrene/PON/ expandable graphite composites are analyzed by limiting oxygen index (LOI), thermogravimetric analysis (TGA), cone calorimetry (CONE) and scanning electron microscopy (SEM). The effects of different ratios of PON and expandable graphite (EG) on the flame retardant properties of polystyrene resin are investigated. The results show that when the total amount of flame retardant is 10 wt%, the ratio of PON and EG is 3:2 and 1:1, which is better than the other ratios. However, due to the small amount of flame retardant, the optimal synergistic effect of PON and EG is not obvious, and the flame retardant performance is similar. However, when the total amount of flame retardant increases to 20 wt%, it is obvious that the ratio of PON and EG 3:2 is better than 1:1.
Improvement of melt viscosity and compatibility of polyglycolic acid (PGA)/polylactic acid (PLA) blend via reactive blending with bifunctional and multifunctional hybrid chain extender
Authors: Liu Deguo , Xie Qimeng , Liu Ziwei , Chen Ju , Zou Xiaoxuan , Jing Bo 
Published: July 2023

AbstractThe low melt viscosity and melt strength of polyglycolic acid (PGA) severely limit its application. In this work, high melt viscosity PGA/PLA blends are prepared by reactive extrusion of bifunctional isocyanate (HDI) and multifunctional epoxy oligomer (ADR) as chain extenders. The use of hybrid chain extender (hCE) containing 2 wt% HDI and 1 wt% ADR results in a long chain branched/cross‐linked structure, thus increasing melt viscosity more effectively than HDI or ADR alone. The complex viscosity, storage modulus and loss modulus of the PGA/PLA/hCE blends are significantly higher than those of the PGA/hCE. The 60PGA/40PLA/hCE has the highest complex viscosity of 72,115 Pa s, which is 69 times of that of PGA/hCE. The modification of hCE significantly improved the mechanical performance of PGA/PLA blend, with the 60PGA/40PLA/hCE having the highest tensile strength and flexural strength. The crystallization temperature and crystallinity of the PGA component in the PGA/PLA/hCE blend are significantly reduced in comparison to that of the PGA/hCE. The PGA/PLA/hCE has the best thermal stability, with the T−5% of 355.3°C, almost 45°C higher than pure PGA. The SEM results show that the adding of hCE decreased the domain size of the PLA dispersed phase in PGA/PLA blend, due to the in situ compatibilization.
Time‐invariant portfolio strategies in structured products with guaranteed minimum equity exposure
Authors: Di Persio Luca , Mancinelli D. , Oliva Immacolata , Wallbaum K. 
Published: July 2023

AbstractWe introduce a new exotic option to be used within structured products to address a key disadvantage of standard time‐invariant portfolio protection: the well‐known cash‐lock risk. Our approach suggests enriching the framework by including a threshold in the allocation mechanism so that a guaranteed minimum equity exposure (GMEE) is ensured at any point in time. To be able to offer such a solution still with hard capital protection, we apply an option‐based structure with a dynamic allocation logic as underlying. We provide an in‐depth analysis of the prices of such new exotic options, assuming a Heston–Vasicek‐type financial market model, and compare our results with other options used within structured products. Our approach represents an interesting alternative for investors aiming at downsizing protection via time‐invariant portfolio protection strategies, meanwhile being also afraid to experience a cash‐lock event triggered by market turmoils.
Tuning Polybenzimidazole‐Derived Crosslinked Interpenetrating Network Membranes for Vanadium Redox Flow Batteries
Authors: Pasadakis‐Kavounis Alexandros , Arslan Funda , Radmer Almind Mads , Aili David , Hjelm Johan 
Published: July 2023

AbstractNon‐fluorinated ion exchange membranes with high proton selectivity and conductivity are sought as separators for vanadium redox flow batteries (VRFB) to substitute the typically used perfluorosulfonic acid (PFSA) polymer membranes. Polybenzimidazole based membranes offer a promising non‐fluorinated alternative due to their excellent thermomechanical properties, low vanadium crossover, and ionic conductivity in acidic media. In this work, a series of polybenzimidazole‐polyvinylchloride polymer blends were cast and decorated with different quaternary ammonium functionalities. The polymer blends were systematically studied with respect to the blend composition and chemical structure of the quaternary ammonium groups. Assessment of relevant membrane properties for use in an aqueous acidic flow battery was conducted through a combination of VRFB single cell testing, permeability measurements, water/electrolyte uptake, and infrared spectroscopy. The blend with a polybenzimidazole content of 90 % decorated with DABCO (1,4‐diazabicyclo[2.2.2]octane) was found to combine low polarization resistance with low swelling and high stability. The performance was found to be similar to that of a benchmark polybenzimidazole membrane despite being three times thicker. This led to the conclusion that quaternary ammonium functionalized polybenzimidazole‐polyvinylbenzylchloride systems is an excellent candidate for further modification or fabrication of thinner membranes to further reduce the membrane resistance without compromising on vanadium blocking properties.
Extrusion 3D Printing of Patterned Cu Current Collectors for Advanced Lithium Metal Anodes
Authors: Callegari Daniele , Airoldi Lorenzo , Brucculeri Riccardo , Anselmi Tamburini Umberto , Quartarone Eliana 
Published: July 2023

AbstractLithium (Li) metal is the most attractive anode material for the next generation Li batteries. However, crucial open challenges still limit its applicability at large scale, such as the low coulombic efficiency, unstable electrodeposition, and dendrite propagation with severe safety concerns. One strategy to address these drawbacks is the rational design of innovative current collectors for the Li anode. Here, we report on a simple, low‐cost, and easily scalable process based on Additive Manufacturing technology via extrusion 3D printing to produce Cu current collectors with different and tuneable patterned structures. The current collectors are characterized by means of X‐ray diffractometry, electron microscopy, profilometry and galvanostatic cycling. We show that the three‐dimensional network can significantly stabilize the electrodeposition of Li, thanks to an enhanced electroactive surface area that enables a better Li accommodation without uncontrollable dendrite growth. Contrary to the planar current collector, the Li anode supported by the 3D current collectors exhibits stable and low voltage hysteresis at different current densities and can run for at least 330 hours without short‐circuiting. Moreover, the evaluation of Li@3DCu anode in a LiFePO4‐based full cell by galvanostatic cycling reveals excellent rate performances, achieving specific capacity exceeding 100 mAh g−1 at 1 C and coulombic efficiency higher than 99 %. These results show that the material extrusion 3D printing approach is a versatile strategy to develop new and safer anodes with a long lifespan and reduced amount of Li metal.
Differentiating passive from active risk taking: the role of self‐control and time perspective
Authors: Idan‐Tzach Tali , Keinan Ruty , Bereby‐Meyer Yoella 
Published: July 2023

AbstractPassive risks are risks brought on, or magnified, by inaction (e.g., not getting vaccinated). They differ from active risks, which are incurred by actions people take, that put them at risk (such as smoking). Although (active) risk taking has been extensively studied, much less is known about passive risk taking and the personal tendencies associated with such behavior. We propose two individual traits—self‐control (SC) and time perspective—that affect the inclination to take passive and active risks, albeit in distinct ways, contributing to the differentiation between the two types of risks. In four studies, we examine a model that suggests that a future time perspective mediates the association between SC and passive risk taking, while a present‐hedonistic time perspective mediates the association between SC and active risk taking. The findings, based on both self‐report questionnaires and actual behavior, support the model and its theoretical basis. Implications and future direction are discussed.
Environmentally friendly protocol for the determination of sitagliptin phosphate in pharmaceutical preparations and biological fluids using l‐tyrosine as a fluorescence probe
Authors: Khan Muhammad N. , Jan Muhammad N. , Ullah Zafran 
Published: July 2023

AbstractA responsive spectrofluorometric method was developed for the determination of sitagliptin phosphate using l‐tyrosine as a fluorescence probe. The fluorescence intensity of l‐tyrosine was quenched with sitagliptin phosphate. The fluorescence intensity was recorded at 307 nm using a 272 nm excitation wavelength. The calibration plot between fluorescence intensity and the concentration of drug was linear in the range of 0.1 to 2.0 mM with a good correlation value of 0.997. The limit of detection and quantification were established to be 3.7 × 10−4 and 1.23 × 10−3 mM, respectively. Commonly used excipients did not interfere with sitagliptin phosphate measurement. The proposed method was used to measure the sitagliptin phosphate in its standard type, dosage form, and biological samples. The percent recovery ranged from 97.41–103.36%. The static quenching was shown to be responsible for quenching as indicated by the Stern–Volmer plot. The method was validated using ICH guidelines and profitably applied for the content uniformity test, resulting in a high percent recovery and small relative standard deviation. The proposed approach is effortless, susceptible, selective, economic, and provides a high precision and accuracy, and can be used to determine sitagliptin phosphate in the pharmaceutical industry.
Improving ribonucleic acid production in Saccharomyces pastorianus via in silico genome‐scale metabolic network model
Authors: Chen Hao , Li Qi , Wang Jinjing , Niu Chengtuo , Zheng Feiyun , Liu Chunfeng 
Published: July 2023

AbstractRibonucleic acid (RNA) and its degradation products are important biomolecules widely used in the food and pharmaceutical industries for their flavoring and nutritional functions. In this study, we used a genome‐scale metabolic network model (GSMM) to explore genetic targets for nucleic acid synthesis in a Saccharomyces pastorianus strain (G03). Yeast 8.5.0 was used as the base model, which accurately predicted G03's growth. Using OptForce, we found that overexpression of ARO8 and ATP1 among six different strategies increased the RNA content of G03 by 58.0% and 74.8%, respectively. We also identified new metabolic targets for improved RNA production using a modified GSMM called TissueModel, constructed using the GIMME transcriptome constraint tool to remove low‐expressed reactions in the model. After running OptKnock, the RNA content of G03‐△BNA1 and G03‐△PMA1 increased by 44.6% and 39.8%, respectively, compared to G03. We suggest that ATP1, ARO8, BNA1, and PMA1 regulate cell fitness, which affects RNA content. This study is the first to identify strategies for RNA overproduction using GSMM and to report that regulation of ATP1, ARO8, BNA1, and PMA1 can increase RNA content in S. pastorianus. These findings also provide valuable knowledge on model reconstruction for S. pastorianus.
The effect of background audio and audiovisual stimuli on students' autonomic responses during and after an experimental academic examination
Authors: Balıkçı İlker , Tok Serdar , Binboğa Erdal 
Published: July 2023

AbstractBackgroundDue to the Covid‐19 pandemic lockdown during the online‐distant education period, certain students tended to combine their courses and homework with TV or social media news or other media content, such as classical music, including a wealth of audio and audiovisual stimuli. As the audio and audiovisual stimuli existing in a learning environment may affect students' autonomic nervous system (ANS) responses negatively, the present study aimed to monitor the impact of background TV, classical music, and silence on students' ANS activity represented by heart rate (HR), heart rate variability (HRV), blood volume amplitude (BVA), and skin conductance level (SCL) during and after an experimental academic examination.MethodSeventy‐six students were randomly allocated to background TV, classical music, or silence groups. The experiment with repeated measures design consisted of four consecutive periods: baseline, anticipation, challenge, and recovery, lasting 4 min each.ResultsWithin‐subject analyses indicated significant HRV decrement only in the background TV group. Regardless of the experimental groups, HR and SCL increased while BVA decreased during the task. In addition, the between‐subject analysis showed that the background TV group experienced significantly larger changes in HR and HRV parameters compared to the other experimental groups relative to their respective baseline measurements.ConclusionsBased on these results, we concluded that relative to classical music and silence, background TV, including audiovisual and verbal stimuli, extant in a learning environment might raise students' sympathetic activity. Further, classical music, without lyrics, may suppress the withdrawal of vagal activity and elevate the autonomic regulation capacity during the academic reading comprehension task. HRV is a more valid and reliable indicator of students' autonomic responses during a challenging academic task.
Moving beyond “the” business case: How to make corporate sustainability work
Authors: Busch Timo , Barnett Michael L. , Burritt Roger Leonard , Cashore Benjamin W. , Freeman R. Edward , Henriques Irene , Husted Bryan W. , Panwar Rajat , Pinkse Jonatan , Schaltegger Stefan , York Jeff 
Published: July 2023

AbstractOne of the most investigated research topics in the corporate sustainability literature is “the” business case. Long lionized for linking the profit motive to corporate environmental initiatives, the business case for sustainability is now vehemently criticized. These critics generally argue for a return to the state and stronger regulatory frameworks. Others counter that because the private sector's capabilities are uniquely suited to realizing effective sustainability innovations and outcomes, we must not abandon but further develop our business case understanding. In this view, firms' voluntary efforts are key for innovative solutions to sustainability problems. This article overviews and unites these seemingly disparate positions. We move the field forward by placing in context criticisms and also opportunities for more meaningful positive impacts from corporate sustainability. Specifically, we argue that an effective business case orientation requires shifting to a broader “all stakeholders win” approach. This entails impact orientation, collaborative approaches, and economic restraint.
CO2 Activation with Manganese Tricarbonyl Complexes through an H‐Atom Responsive Benzimidazole Ligand
Authors: Singh Kundan K. , Gerke Carter S. , Saund Simran S. , Zito Alessandra M. , Siegler Maxime A. , Thoi V. Sara 
Published: July 2023

AbstractHerein, we report the synthesis and characterization of two manganese tricarbonyl complexes, MnI(HL)(CO)3Br (1 a‐Br) and MnI(MeL)(CO)3Br (1 b‐Br) (where HL=2‐(2’‐pyridyl)benzimidazole; MeL=1‐methyl‐2‐(2’‐pyridy)benzimidazole) and assayed their electrocatalytic properties for CO2 reduction. A redox‐active pyridine benzimidazole ancillary ligand in complex 1 a‐Br displayed unique hydrogen atom transfer ability to facilitate electrocatalytic CO2 conversion at a markedly lower reduction potential than that observed for 1 b‐Br. Notably, a one‐electron reduction of 1 a‐Br yields a structurally characterized H‐bonded binuclear Mn(I) adduct (2 a’) rather than the typically observed Mn(0)‐Mn(0) dimer, suggesting a novel method for CO2 activation. Combining advanced electrochemical, spectroscopic, and single crystal X‐ray diffraction techniques, we demonstrate the use of an H‐atom responsive ligand may reveal an alternative, low‐energy pathway for CO2 activation by an earth‐abundant metal complex catalyst.
Manipulation of Hierarchical Chiral Self‐assembly and Anion Recognition by Supramolecular Systems of β‐Glucopyranoside, Pillar[5]arenes, and Polyoxometalates
Authors: Zeng Mengyan , Chen Xin , Zhang Jie 
Published: July 2023

AbstractHierarchical chiral structures have broad applications in optical devices, asymmetric catalysis, and biological systems. The delicate balance of various interactions are key to the self‐assembly of chiral structures. Herein, a ternary co‐assembly consisting of cationic pillar[5]arenes (P5As), anionic β‐glucopyranoside (βGlcD/βGlcL), and Anderson‐type polyoxometalates (POMs) were constructed. Through adjusting the stoichiometry of βGlcD, the assemblies were effectively controlled to form hierarchical nano‐leaf assemblies with twisted nanoribbons in a homochiral direction. The co‐assemblies exhibit strong Cotton effects, and successfully induced the chirality of Anderson‐type POMs. More interestingly, by changing the central metal in Anderson‐type POMs (XMo6O243− (X=Cr, Al, and Ga)), even though the three clusters have the same numbers of charge and size, the hierarchical chirality of the related assemblies varied in the morphology of the assemblies and the Cotton effect in the CD spectra. Results in theoretical calculations and ITC titration indicates that the tiny difference in long‐range electrostatic interaction would result in the anion recognition of POMs, modulated by βGlcD through host–guest inclusion and hydrogen bonding in the assembly process.
Machine‐Learning‐Aided NO2 Discrimination with an Array of Graphene Chemiresistors Covalently Functionalized by Diazonium Chemistry
Authors: Freddi Sonia , Rodriguez Gonzalez Miriam C. , Casotto Andrea , Sangaletti Luigi , De Feyter Steven 
Published: July 2023

AbstractBoosted by the emerging need for highly integrated gas sensors in the internet of things (IoT) ecosystems, electronic noses (e‐noses) are gaining interest for the detection of specific molecules over a background of interfering gases. The sensing of nitrogen dioxide is particularly relevant for applications in environmental monitoring and precision medicine. Here we present an easy and efficient functionalization procedure to covalently modify graphene layers, taking advantage of diazonium chemistry. Separate graphene layers were functionalized with one of three different aryl rings: 4‐nitrophenyl, 4‐carboxyphenyl and 4‐bromophenyl. The distinct modified graphene layers were assembled with a pristine layer into an e‐nose for NO2 discrimination. A remarkable sensitivity to NO2 was demonstrated through exposure to gaseous solutions with NO2 concentrations in the 1–10 ppm range at room temperature. Then, the discrimination capability of the sensor array was tested by carrying out exposure to several interfering gases and analyzing the data through multivariate statistical analysis. This analysis showed that the e‐nose can discriminate NO2 among all the interfering gases in a two‐dimensional principal component analysis space. Finally, the e‐nose was trained to accurately recognize NO2 contributions with a linear discriminant analysis approach, thus providing a metric for discrimination assessment with a prediction accuracy above 95 %.
Temporary pacemaker implantation via median cubital vein: A simple safe and effective technique
Authors: He Dehua , Zhang Ziguan , Huang Huiqing , Lin Kaimin , Ge Yan , Lin Xiongbiao , Xie Qiang , Li Weihua , Huang Zhengrong 
Published: July 2023

AbstractBackgroundTemporary cardiac pacemaker implantation (PM) via the femoral and subclavian veins is widely used in clinics to treat patients with severe bradycardia or tachycardia, but it is technically challenging and potentially associated with various complications.HypothesisThis study investigated the feasibility and safety of a novel method of PM implantation via the median cubital vein.MethodsA total of 279 patients of the First Affiliated Hospital of Xiamen University between March 2020 and December 2021 who required no‐emergency PM implantation were enrolled. The patients were divided into three groups based on the temporary PM implantation routes: F‐control (n = 107), via the femoral vein; S‐control (n = 67), via the subclavian vein, and N‐group (n = 105), via the median cubital vein. The sheath placement time (SPT), electrode placement time (EPT), electrode arrival rate (EAR), rate of sensing and pacing (RSP), radiation quantity (RD), electrode dislocation rate (EDR) and average electrode retention time (AERT) were recorded and evaluated. In addition, the Hamilton Anxiety Scale (HAMA) and Self‐Rating Depression Scale (SDS) were used to evaluate the comfort levels of patients in the three groups.ResultsThere were no significant differences between the groups with regard to age, EAR, RSP, EPT, RD, and AERT (p > 0.05). However, the N‐group had significantly lower SPT than the F‐control and S‐control groups (67.0 ± 22.0 s vs. 321.7 ± 122.2 s and 307.3 ± 128.5 s, p = 0.000). Additionally, the F‐control had significantly higher EDR than the S‐control group and the N‐group (11 (10.3%) vs. 2 (3.0%) and 3 (2.9%), p = 0.036). Besides, comparison of the HAMA and SDS scores before and after PM implantation showed significant differences in the S‐control group (p = 0.010) and the N‐group (p = 0.000).ConclusionsTemporary PM implantation via the median cubital vein is safe, effective, and less time‐consuming.