bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Electricity generation using solar parabolic dish system with thermoelectric generator—An experimental investigation
Authors: Sahu Susant Kumar , K Arjun Singh , Natarajan Sendhil Kumar
Published: July 2021

The present electricity grid installation cost as well as the tariff is quite high in India, particularly remote rural areas, to electrify houses. These problems can be easily solved by installing standalone systems that operate on one of the clean energy sources such as solar energy. An experimental analysis of generating electricity from a thermoelectric generator (TEG) powered by a solar parabolic dish concentrator device with aperture area and focal length of 12.6 m2 and 2.42 m, respectively, is presented in this article. A TEG is made up of a thermoelectric module connected to a flat receiver by an absorber layer. The studies were carried out in Indian climatic conditions at the National Institute of Technology, Puducherry. Over a spectrum of beam radiation, the system's maximum energy conversion efficiency, as well as efficient electrical output, are evaluated and presented. The proposed system's average effective electrical efficiency is 0.424%, corresponding to the TEG's average energy conversion efficiency of 2.76%.
Magnetohydrodynamic boundary layer flow of nanofluid with variable chemical reaction in a radiative vertical plate
Authors: Rahman Mosfiqur , Uddin Jashim
Published: July 2021

The nanotechnology‐based nanofluid has extraordinary prospects in heat transfer engineering. Analysis of these applied nanofluids can yield the appropriate combinations of various useful physical parameters. In the present study, the incompressible boundary layer flow of a nanofluid in the presence of the variable chemical reaction, temperature‐dependent viscosity, hydromagnetic force, and the radiation past an infinite vertical plate has been investigated. The governing nanofluid equations are simplified to ordinary differential equations, which are solved using the function bvp4c from MATLAB. The effects of the physical parameters including the similarity parameter, magnetic field, two dimensionless constant temperatures, Schmidt number, local Grashof number, radiation parameter, local chemical reaction parameter, kinematic diffusion parameter, and temperature‐independent kinematic diffusion parameter on the velocity, temperature, concentration and the local Nusselt number are demonstrated. The results show that as the magnetic field parameter increases, the heat transfer decreases, and the increase of the radiation parameter yields the opposite effect. The kinematic diffusion and the chemical reaction parameters greatly stimulate the concentration of nanofluid and reduce the heat transfer.
Asymmetric responses to Purchasing Managers' Index announcements in China's stock returns
Authors: Wang Yingli , Lu Chang , Yang Xiaoguang , Zhang Qingpeng
Published: July 2021

The study empirically analyzes the stock market response to the announcements of China's Manufacturing Purchasing Managers' Index (PMI). Asymmetric effects are observed, as follows: negative PMI announcements do not appear to influence the stock market, whereas positive PMI announcements have a significant effect. Evidence further suggests that negative announcements remain nonsignificant under any economic period (e.g., expansion, contraction, or stability), while the positivity effect observed becomes increasingly significant during both economic expansion and stability periods. Our study is not consistent with international experience, which suggests stock markets are more sensitive to negative news. A test sample of individual stocks was used to further investigate this phenomenon. We observed stocks characterised with lower levels of institutional ownership, smaller firm size, higher liquidity or low stock prices, react to positive news more consistently. These types of stocks are generally favoured by individual investors who are more easily influenced by positive PMI news. Unlike stock markets of America or Europe, individual investors dominate China's stock market. The ‘rise‐chasing and down‐freezing’ behaviour of the individual investors may explain why China's market reacts more readily to positive PMI announcements. Note: The ‘rise‐chasing and down‐freezing’ phenomenon refers to an investor who buys winning stocks warmly, while keeps the losing stocks at hand.
Comparative analysis of the kernel types in generalized autocalibrating partially parallel acquisition algorithms for accelerated three‐dimensional magnetic resonance spectroscopic imaging data
Authors: Song Junghyun , Kim Dongchan , Han Yeji , Chung Jun‐Young
Published: July 2021

This study was conducted to comparatively analyze the performance of generalized autocalibrating partially parallel acquisition (GRAPPA) algorithms according to the kernel types, which has not yet been reported. A GRAPPA algorithm using one 3D kernel or other kernels was used to reconstruct the undersampled 3D MRSI data along three or two PE directions. To quantitatively assess the quality of the reconstruction, the normalized root–mean–squared errors (nRMSEs) were calculated in simulated, phantom, and in vivo data. The nRMSE of the GRAPPA algorithm using one 3D kernel in reconstructing undersampled 3D MRSI data along three PE directions was the lowest. The spectra and maps from the reconstructed data using one 3D kernel were the closest to those from the fully sampled data. We recommend acquiring 3D MRSI data accelerated along three PE directions to reduce scan time and indispensably applying the GRAPPA algorithm using one 3Dkernel to improve reconstruction performance.
Cytocompatibility of a mussel‐inspired poly(lactic acid)‐based adhesive
Authors: Hollingshead Sydney , Siebert Heather , Wilker Jonathan J. , Liu Julie C.
Published: July 2021

Incorporating catechols into polymers can provide strong adhesion even in moist environments, and these polymers show promise for use in several biomedical applications. Surgical adhesives must have strong bonds, be biocompatible, and function in a moist environment. Poly(lactic acid) (PLA) has a long history as a biocompatible material for hard tissue device fixation. By combining these concepts, catechol‐containing poly(lactic acid) (cPLA) polymers are created that are strongly adhesive and degrade in physiological environments. Here, we evaluated the cytocompatibility of cPLA with iron(III) or periodate (IO4−) cross‐linkers. Fibroblasts cultured in cPLA leachate or on cPLA films generally had slower growth and lower metabolism compared with PLA controls but no differences in viability. These results demonstrated that cPLA was not cytotoxic but that including catechols reduced cell health. When cPLA was cross‐linked with periodate, cells generally had reduced metabolism, slower cell growth, and poor actin fiber formation compared with PLA. These results are attributed to the cytotoxicity of periodate since cells cultured with periodate leachate had extremely low viability. Cells grown on the films of iron‐cross‐linked cPLA generally had high viability and metabolism but slower proliferation than PLA controls. These results indicate that the cPLA and iron‐cross‐linked cPLA systems are promising materials for biomedical adhesive applications.
Potential value of circulatory microRNA10b gene expression and its target E‐cadherin as a prognostic and metastatic prediction marker for breast cancer
Authors: Dwedar Fatma Ibrahim , Shams‐Eldin Reham Said , Nayer Mohamed Salwa , Mohammed Ayman Farouk , Gomaa Salwa Hamdi
Published: July 2021

Background

Breast cancer (BC) is the leading cause of cancer death in women worldwide. Most BC studies on candidate microRNAs were tissue specimen based. Recently, there has been a focus on the study of cell‐free circulating miRNAs as promising biomarkers in (BC) diagnosis and prognosis. Therefore, we aimed to investigate the circulating levels of miR‐10b and its target soluble E‐ cadherin as potentially easily accessible biomarkers for breast cancer.

Methods

Sixty‐one breast cancer patients and forty‐eight age‐ and sex‐matched healthy volunteers serving as a control group were enrolled in the present study. Serum samples were used to assess miRNA10b expression by TaqMan miRNA assay technique. In addition, soluble E‐cadherin expression level in serum was determined using ELISA technique.

Result

Circulating miR‐10b expression level and serum sE‐cadherin was significantly upregulated in patients with BC compared to controls. Moreover, serum miR‐10b displayed progressive up‐regulation in advanced stages with higher level in metastatic compared to non‐metastatic BC. Additionally, the combined use of both serum miR‐10b and sE‐cadherin revealed the highest sensitivity and specificity for detection of BC metastasis (92.9% and 97.9% respectively) with an area under curve (AUC) of 0.98, 95% CI (0.958–1.00).

Conclusion

Our data suggest that circulating miR‐10b could be utilized as a potential non‐invasive serum biomarker for diagnosis and prognosis of breast cancer with better performance to predict BC metastasis achieved on measuring it simultaneously with serum sE‐cadherin. Further studies with a large cohort of patients are warranted to validate the serum biomarker for breast cancer management.
Outcomes from a pilot genetic counseling intervention using motivational interviewing and the extended parallel process model to increase cascade cholesterol screening
Authors: Baldry Emma , Redlinger‐Grosse Krista , MacFarlane Ian , Walters Scott T. , Ash Erin , Steinberger Julia , Murdy Kari , Cragun Deborah , Allen‐Tice Carly , Zierhut Heather
Published: July 2021

Familial hypercholesterolemia (FH) is an inherited condition resulting in increased risk of premature cardiovascular disease. This risk can be reduced with early diagnosis and treatment, but it can be challenging to identify individuals with FH. Cascade screening, the most efficient and cost‐effective identification method, requires FH patients to communicate with their at‐risk family and encourage them to pursue screening. Beyond FH, patients with conditions increasing disease risk to family members report barriers to the communication process such as insufficient knowledge of the condition and discomfort informing relatives. We conducted a pilot study of a genetic counseling intervention incorporating behavior‐change principles from motivational interviewing (MI) and the extended parallel process model (EPPM) to help parents of children with FH overcome these barriers and improve cascade screening rates for FH. Of the 13 participants who completed the intervention and post‐intervention surveys, 6 reported contacting and/or screening additional relatives. A large effect size in increasing communication and screening was observed (η2 = 0.20), with the mean percent of at‐risk relatives contacted rising from 33% to 45%, and the mean percent screened rising from 32% to 42%. On average, 2.23 new relatives were contacted and 2.46 were screened, per participant, by the end of the study. Direct content analysis revealed that despite the open‐ended nature of the goal‐setting process, participant goals fell into two categories including those who set goals focused on communicating with and screening family members (n = 9) and those who set goals only focused on managing FH (n = 4). Overall, the communication and screening rates reported after the intervention were higher than previous observations in adult FH populations. These results suggest this EPPM/MI genetic counseling intervention could be a useful tool for increasing communication and cascade screening for FH. With further research on goal‐setting techniques, the intervention could be refined and replicated to identify more individuals affected by FH or modified for use with other actionable genetic conditions.
Corporate board diversity and its impact on the social performance of companies from emerging economies
Authors: Yilmaz Mustafa K. , Hacioglu Umit , Nantembelele Fatuma Abdallah , Sowe Samba
Published: July 2021

Gender diversity, and to a lesser extent cultural diversity, have become a focus of interest as predictors of corporate social performance. Based on a sample of 6150 observations from 1230 companies in 18 emerging economies, this article examines the influence of board cultural and gender diversity on three measures of corporate social performance: workforce, community, and product responsibility. Using structural equation modeling, it shows that the existence of board cultural and gender diversity positively affects the workforce, community, and product responsibility performance of companies. Concerning gender diversity, the results largely support other empirical studies. Our findings also contribute to the under‐researched area of cultural diversity. This study adds value to the existing literature on corporate board diversity, and can be used as a guide for companies in their pursuit of diversity.
Raman studies on zoisite and tanzanite for gemmological applications
Authors: Coccato Alessia , Bersani Danilo , Caggiani Maria Cristina , Mazzoleni Paolo , Barone Germana
Published: July 2021

Tanzanite is the blue to violet‐blue variety of the sorosilicate zoisite; its colour is due to vanadium substitution of aluminium in the octahedral sites and is proved to appear after natural or artificial heating to approximately 500°C. Its colour makes it a highly appreciated gemstone, for this reason often imitated or thermally treated with the aim of enhancing its hue. Tanzanite loose gemstones are easily identified by classical gemmology methods that are not always applicable to mounted jewels. At the same time, zoisite Raman spectra are rarely reported in literature and never with a systematic approach. In this work, zoisite samples and cut tanzanite gemstones were considered, with the aim of filling this gap by addressing different methodological aspects. Namely, the orientational effects were investigated to explain the spectral variability, the photoluminescence bands were differentiated from the Raman signals using different excitation wavelengths, and the effectiveness of portable instrumentation in the correct identification of tanzanite was evaluated. The results are encouraging, showing that zoisite is revealed, notwithstanding orientational effects, by both portable and laboratory Raman instruments with comparable performances, opening the way to an effective identification of mounted tanzanite gemstones. Furthermore, the employ of different excitation wavelengths allowed to distinguish the photoluminescence bands with both categories of devices, thus identifying rare earth elements (REEs) likely associated with the mineral's genesis.
The presentation of Hispanic gastric cancer patients varies by location of patient ancestry
Authors: Karalis John D. , Ju Michelle R. , Mansour John C. , Polanco Patricio M. , Yopp Adam C. , Zeh Herbert J. , Porembka Matthew R. , Wang Sam C.
Published: July 2021

Background and Objectives

The clinical presentation of gastric cancer varies between racial and ethnic groups. While historically studied as a monolithic population, the Hispanic ethnicity is comprised of heterogenous groups with considerable biologic, socioeconomic, and cultural variability; therefore, intragroup differences among Hispanic gastric cancer patients may have been overlooked in past research.

Methods

We conducted a retrospective review of the National Cancer Database (NCDB) to compare Hispanic patients with gastric adenocarcinoma diagnosed between 2004 and 2015, by NCDB‐reported location of patient ancestry.

Results

We identified a cohort of 3811 patients. There were higher proportions of females, patients with early disease onset, and stage 4 disease among patients of Mexican and South/Central American ancestry. Additionally, a significantly larger proportion of Mexican (15%) and South/Central American patients (11%) were diagnosed before age 40, in contrast to Cubans (2%), Dominicans (6%), and Puerto Ricans (3%; p < 0.0001). Mexican ancestry was independently associated with an increased rate of all‐cause mortality at 5 years (hazard ratio: 1.34; 95% confidence interval: 1.09–1.64).

Conclusions

Significant clinical and epidemiological differences exist among Hispanic gastric cancer patients based on location of ancestry. Future data collection endeavors should strive to capture this granularity inherent to the Hispanic ethnicity.
Preparation of Ti3C2Tx MXene based solid‐phase microextraction coating for sensitive determination of polychlorinated biphenyls in environmental water samples
Authors: Pang Tiantian , Chen Xiaohui , Hu Kai , Cui Yongxia , Zhao Wenjie , Zeng Huahui , Zhang Zhenqiang , Zhang Shusheng
Published: July 2021

In this study, a new Ti3C2Tx‐coated fiber was synthesized and utilized as coatings for solid‐phase microextraction of seven polychlorinated biphenyls. The as‐produced multilayered Ti3C2Tx MXene was characterized by X‐ray diffractometer, thermos‐gravimetric analysis, scanning electron microscopy, and energy dispersive spectroscopy. It is noteworthy that the Ti3C2Tx showed some attractive features including unique 2D layered structures, large surface area, good hydrophilicity, and rich active recognition sites, endowing it has a high affinity towards the target polychlorinated biphenyls. Subsequently, the affecting parameters on the extraction efficiency of polychlorinated biphenyls were optimized. Under the optimal conditions, a novel method for the analysis of polychlorinated biphenyls in water samples was proposed. The Ti3C2Tx‐coated fiber‐based solid‐phase microextraction method showed good linearity (r2 > 0.9928), high enrichment factors (268–442), low limits of detection (0.06–0.15 ng/L), and satisfactory repeatability (RSDs < 7.5%) for the polychlorinated biphenyls. The excellent method recoveries were in the range of 90.0–98.4, 92.0–98.2, and 92.0–98.0% for river water, lake water, and tap water samples, respectively. These results suggested that the proposed Ti3C2Tx‐coated fiber‐based method represents a promising alternative for the analysis of polychlorinated biphenyls.
Antecedent infections and vaccinations in chronic inflammatory demyelinating polyneuropathy: A European collaborative study
Authors: Rajabally Yusuf A. , Peric Stojan , Bozovic Ivo , Loo Lay K. , Kalac Aida , Palibrk Aleksa , Basta Ivana
Published: July 2021

Introduction/Aims

Chronic inflammatory demyelinating polyneuropathy (CIDP) may be rarely preceded by infection. A causative link remains unproven, in contrast to Guillain‐Barré syndrome (GBS), which is commonly postinfectious with well‐demonstrated pathophysiological mechanisms of molecular mimicry following Campylobacter jejuni enteritis. Uncommonly, infections are reported before the onset of CIDP. In this study we aimed to determine the frequency and characteristics of CIDP occurring after antecedent infections or vaccinations in two large European cohorts.

Methods

We reviewed the records of 268 subjects with “definite” or “probable” CIDP from the Inflammatory Neuropathy Clinic, Birmingham, UK (129 subjects), and from the Serbian national CIDP database (139 subjects).

Results

Twenty‐five of 268 (9.3%) subjects had a respiratory or gastrointestinal infection in the 6 weeks preceding CIDP onset, and 3 of 268 (1.1%) had received an influenza vaccination. CIDP disease onset occurred at a younger age (mean [standard deviation], 44.25 [17.36] years vs 54.05 [15.19] years; P < .005) and acute‐onset CIDP was more common (42.9% vs 12.1%; odds ratio, 5.46; 95% confidence interval, 2.35‐12.68; P < .001) in subjects with preceding infections or vaccinations. No differences in CIDP subtype, rates of cerebrospinal fluid protein level elevation, disability, or likelihood of treatment response, were observed.

Discussion

Antecedent infections or vaccinations may precede about 10% of cases of CIDP and are more common in younger subjects. Acute‐onset CIDP is more frequent after antecedent events. These findings may suggest specific pathophysiological mechanisms in such cases.
Hierarchical enhancement of stress–strain transfer and flame retardancy of wood plastic composite
Authors: Zhang Shuai , Ding Chunxiang , Huang Yanping , Pan Mingzhu
Published: July 2021

Mechanical strength of multiphase material depends on mechanical properties of components and interface bonding states, which has always been a research hot spot. In this work, a hyperbranched polyethyleneimine‐grafted nano SiO2 (pSiO2)‐decorated ammonium polyphosphate (APP) was applied to synergistically improve the flame retardancy and toughness of wood plastic composite (WPC). With nonpolar carbon skeleton and polar amine groups on it, pSiO2 could successfully coated on APP via ionic bonding and improve the compatibility between wood fiber and high‐density polyethylene (HDPE). According to digital image correlation (DIC), pSiO2 improved the strain transfer from HDPE molecular to wood fiber, thus an increased high‐deformation region was observed in WPC/pSiO2 and WPC/APP‐pSiO2 . pSiO2 provided numerous of stress concentration area,to induce the formation and inhibit the convergence of craze. As a result, WPC/APP with 30% pSiO2 addition showed a 47.9% increment in impact strength compared to WPC/APP. Besides, pSiO2 also showed a synergistic effect with APP and further improved the flame retardancy of flame retardant WPC. This work provides a route for interface design and internal stress–strain study of multiphase composites.
Effect of different chemical treatments and loadings of Arundo donax L. fibers on the dynamic mechanical, thermal, and morphological properties of bisphenol A aniline based polybenzoxazine composites
Authors: Bessa Wissam , Trache Djalal , Derradji Mehdi , Ambar Houda , Benziane Mokhtar , Guedouar Bendiba
Published: July 2021

In this research paper, bisphenol A aniline based benzoxazine (BA‐a) was reinforced with natural, inexpensive, and largely distributed cellulosic plant, namely Arundo donax L. (AD) at various loadings of 5, 15, and 25 wt%. AD fibers were initially subjected to three different chemical surface modifications using alkaline, silane, and combined alkali‐silane solutions. The main purpose of this work was to investigate the dynamic mechanical properties, morphological stability, and thermal stability of the as‐prepared composites by pointing out the effects of natural reinforcements treated in different ways at different loadings. Dynamic mechanical analysis of the prepared composites revealed an enhancement in storage modulus (E′) and loss modulus (E″) to higher values, especially for composites reinforced by alkali‐ or combined‐treated fibers due to the strong effect of alkaline solution to remove noncellulosic matters. Composite loaded at 25% of alkali‐silane treated AD exhibited a glass transition temperature (Tg) of 217°C, while pure polymer had a Tg of 188°C. The enhanced properties are a great indicator of the high fiber–matrix adhesion and compatibility. This conclusion is strengthened by scanning electron microscopy images. The thermal stability and degradation of the different biocomposites are also investigated by thermogravimetric analysis, revealing that the nature of the employed chemical treatment affected considerably the thermal behavior and the char yield of the composites.
Validation of the FACIT‐Sp‐12 in a Dutch cohort of patients with advanced cancer
Authors: Damen Annelieke , Visser Anja , van Laarhoven Hanneke W. M. , Leget Carlo , Raijmakers Natasja , van Roij Janneke , Fitchett George
Published: July 2021

Objective

Although the Dutch Functional Assessment of Chronic Illness Therapy—Spiritual Well‐Being 12 Item Scale (FACIT‐Sp‐12) has been used in several Dutch studies, no study has assessed the measurement properties of the translation. The aim of this study was to perform an item‐reduction analysis, confirmatory factor analysis (CFA), test of reliability, and test of convergent validity.

Methods

From the baseline data of a cohort study on experienced quality of care and quality of life (eQuiPe study), 400 advanced cancer patients without missing values on any of the variables were selected. In addition to demographic and religious/spiritual characteristics, study measures included the FACIT‐Sp‐12 and the European Organisation for Research and Treatment of Cancer Quality of Life Questionnaire‐C30 (EORTC‐QLQ‐C30).

Results

Item reduction analysis showed that Items 4 and 8 had low correlations to the total scale (<0.30). Items 6 and 7, and Items 9, 10, and 11 were highly correlated (>0.75). CFA indicated a good fit for a three‐factor structure with Meaning, Peace and Faith, and good Cronbach's α coefficients for the total as well as the subscales (0.71–0.86). The removal of Items 4, 8, and 12 further improved the goodness of fit and Cronbach's α coefficients. Convergent validity was adequate with the EORTC‐QLQ‐C30.

Conclusion

Our analysis of the FACIT‐Sp‐12 revealed serious questions about three items and concerns about the Faith subscale. These problematic items deserve further attention so should be interpreted with care when using this scale. A future study could look into the items and test possible replacements.
Bulk and Interfacial Effects in the Co/NixMn100−x Exchange‐Bias System due to Creation of Defects by Ar+ Sputtering
Authors: Shinwari Tauqir , Gelen Ismet , Shokr Yasser A. , Kumberg Ivar , Ikramullah  , Sajjad Muhammad , Kuch Wolfgang , Khan M. Yaqoob
Published: July 2021

A series of experiments is carried out to identify the contribution of interface and bulk antiferromagnetic (AFM) spins to exchange bias (EB) in ultrathin epitaxial ferromagnetic (FM)/AFM bilayer samples. These are single‐crystalline AFM and ferromagnetic Co layers on (001), deposited under ultrahigh vacuum conditions, in which structural or chemical defects are deliberately introduced by controlled Ar ion sputtering at the surface of the AFM layer or at a certain depth inside the AFM layer. Comparison of the magnetic properties measured by magneto‐optical Kerr effect for sputtered and nonsputtered parts of the same sample then allows a precise determination of the influence of sputtering on the AFM layer during the sample preparation, whereas all other parameters are kept identical. The results show that the creation of defects in the bulk of the AFM layer enhances the magnitude of EB and its blocking temperature, but not the creation of defects at the interface. It is also observed that the deeper the insertion of defects in the AFM layer, the higher the value of the EB field and the larger the coercivity, These findings are discussed as the effect of additional pinning centers in the bulk of the AFM layer.
Design of nonsmooth Kalman filter for compound sandwich systems with backlash and dead zone
Authors: Li Haifen , Zhou Zupeng , Li Xuebin , Zhang Xiaoyu
Published: July 2021

In this article, a new nonsmooth Kalman filtering (KF) method is proposed for noise suppression of the compound sandwich with backlash and dead zone. Based on the characteristics of the system, a nonsmooth stochastic state‐space equation is constructed. Then, nonsmooth KF is developed to adapt the nonsmooth stochastic state space model. The filter can switch automatically among different operating zones according to the operating conditions. Moreover, the convergence of the switchable compound nonsmooth KF is discussed. Subsequently, a motor‐driving mechanical transmission system which can be described as a compound nonsmooth nonlinear sandwich system with backlash and dead zone is studied as an application case. Finally, the comparison between the proposed filtering scheme and conventional filter are presented. It is demonstrated that the nonsmooth KF has a better performance than the conventional one in terms of convergence and accuracy in state estimation under noisy environment.
Learn how to turn student complaints into opportunities
Authors: Heator Marty
Published: July 2021

If your role as a student affairs professional includes the challenging responsibility of resolving student complaints, you'll likely find it beneficial to recognize and understand different complaining styles so you can respond accordingly and effectively.
Consider 5 practical strategies for improving veterans resource centers
Authors: Mungal Angus S. , Court Clarence L. , Johnson Kristopher D.
Published: July 2021

The influx of military service‐members into the world of higher education casts a spotlight on the veterans resource centers at colleges and universities. Such veterans resource centers can provide support to student‐veterans who seek assistance in navigating higher education bureaucracy and institutional culture. Student‐veterans rely heavily on the centers, and find them to be a support and a bureaucratic hindrance, according to our research.
Au Nanostructures with Controlled Morphology, Biosynthesized from Garcinia cowa Fruit Extract, and Their Use in Microwave‐Mediated Bisindole Synthesis
Authors: Gohain Shivanee B. , Thakur Ashim J.
Published: July 2021

Au nanoparticles (NPs) of controlled morphology have been synthesised through an eco‐friendly biogenic method utilizing the aqueous fruit extract of Garcinia cowa at room temperature. The bio extract executes dual role of reducing agent and stabilizing agent to add excellent stability to the synthesized colloidal Au NPs. The variation of particle size and morphology of Au nanostructures with respect to the quantitative part of the bio‐extract were studied. After microscopic and spectroscopic characterization, further application of the Au NPs synthesized via green method in the preparation of complex organic molecules was studied. The Au NPs were employed as homogeneous catalyst in coupling of substituted indole and aromatic aldehydes to yield bisindolylmethanes, which are known precursors of anti‐cancer bioactive molecules. In addition, microwave irradiation makes the coupling reaction more sustainable with very short reaction time of 40 secs.
Incorporation of Anatase TiO2 to Highly Porous Silica (BMMs) for Photo‐Degradation of Alizarin Red Dye in Aqueous Solution
Authors: Gul Anadil , Sun Jihong , Ullah Raza , Munir Tallat , Bai Shiyang
Published: July 2021

Prelaminar synthesis of anatase TiO2 nanoparticles supported on bimodal mesoporous silica (BMMs) was carried out by impregnation method. Physiochemical characteristic and structural morphology of synthesized catalyst (TiO2/BMMs) were studied in detail by X‐ray diffraction patterns, N2 sorption isotherms, Fourier transform infrared and ultraviolet‐visible spectra, surface‐zeta charges, inductively coupled plasma atomic emission spectroscopy, scanning electron microscopy and transmission electron microscopy. The results demonstrated that the anatase TiO2 nanoparticles in size of around 5.06 nm were uniformly dispersed on the mesoporous surface of BMMs. The resultant TiO2/BMMs as photo‐catalyst had extensive effect on degradation performances (93.6 %) of alizarin red dye in aqueous solution, in which the effects of various parameters, such as pH, dose, and pollutant concentration on the adsorption capacity and further photo‐degradation were explored. Meanwhile, the reused photocatalyst after five successive cycles presented a higher activity with degradation up to 61.1 %, suggesting a good stability of newly synthesized catalyst.
Colorimetric Method for Instant Detection of Lysine and Arginine Using Novel Meldrum's Acid‐Furfural Conjugate
Authors: Zeußel Lisa , Mai Patrick , Sharma Sanjay , Schober Andreas , Ren Shizhan , Singh Sukhdeep
Published: July 2021

In the past few years Meldrum's acid furfural conjugate (MAFC) have been extensively explored as starting material for the synthesis of photo switchable donor acceptor stenhouse adducts (DASA). Hereby, we have explored the interaction of MAFC with various amino acids. To our surprise, nitrogen rich amino acids like lysine and arginine interact spontaneously with MAFC to give colored adduct immediately, whereas other amino acids, including nitrogen rich histidine, didn't show any coloration. Naked eye detection of lysine in benign solvent make this reagent an attractive new entry to the collection of chemosensors for the colorimetric detection of lysine and arginine. Intense coloration corresponds to the absorption at 514 nm under UV‐Vis spectrometer. Lowest concentration of 100 μm can be detected with UV‐Vis spectrometer. NMR titrations reveals that the appearance of color is due to ring opening of a furfural that leads to the formation of conjugated triene species. Compared to previously reported chemosensors for lysine and arginine, MAFC offers advantages including simple synthesis, easy handling, high speed, low cost, good sensitivity/selectivity.
A Facile One‐Pot Hydrothermal Synthesis of Zn, Mn Co‐Doped NiCo2O4 as an Efficient Electrode for Supercapacitor Applications
Authors: Pradeepa S. S. , Rajkumar P. , Diwakar K. , Sutharthani K. , Subadevi R. , Sivakumar M.
Published: July 2021

A high electrochemical performance and cost effective solid state NiCo2O4 material was synthesized by hydrothermal method. The performance of the supercapacitor material was investigated by incorporating the zinc and manganese in the crystal structure of NiCo2O4. The structure and morphology were confirmed by X‐ray diffraction (XRD) pattern and Field Emission Scanning Electron Microscope (FE‐SEM), and High Resolution Transmission Electron Microscope (HR‐TEM). The optical absorption spectra of the pure and co‐doped NiCo2O4 were investigated by UV‐Vis analysis and the bandgap energy was found to be 4.38 and 2.98 eV respectively. Photoluminescence spectra (PL) reveal the blue and green emission peaks were found at 364, 376 and 488 nm respectively. The pore size and surface area of Mn, Zn co‐doped NiCo2O4 was evaluated by Brunauer ‐Emmett –Teller analysis (BET). The cyclic voltammetry (CV) reveals the faradaic reaction of the pure and co‐doped NiCo2O4 with excellent reversibility at higher scan rates. The maximum specific capacitance for pure and co‐doped NiCo2O4 nanoparticles (NPs) was achieved as 158.6 and 513.17 Fg−1 respectively. Further, the electrochemical impedance spectroscopy (EIS) and galvanostatic charge discharge (GCD) were performed to identify the resistance and rate capability of the electrode materials. The cyclic stability of pure and Zn, Mn co‐doped NiCo2O4 was found to be 90.8 % and 95.07 % respectively for 3000 Cycles. The Zn, Mn co‐doped NiCo2O4 can be used as an excellent electrode for supercapacitor applications.
One‐Pot Hydrothermal‐Derived NiS2–CoMo2S4 with Vertically Aligned Nanorods as a Binder‐Free Electrode for Coin‐Cell‐Type Hybrid Supercapacitor
Authors: Sekhar S. Chandra , Ramulu Bhimanaboina , Arbaz Shaik Junied , Hussain Sk. Khaza , Yu Jae Su
Published: July 2021

Transition bimetallic sulfides are exploited as high‐capacity electrode materials in energy storage devices owing to their abundant electroactive sites and relatively high electrical conductivity compared with metal oxides. Here, an in situ conversion of metal ions into NiS2–CoMo2S4 vertically aligned nanorod arrays on nickel foam (NS–CMS NRAs@NF) using a one‐step hydrothermal technique to address the “dead‐mass” limitation and multi‐step preparation methods is reported. An in situ‐converted NS–CMS NRAs obtained for 12 h of reaction time (NS–CMS NRAs‐12 h@NF) delivers a superior areal capacity of 780 μAh cm−2 to the other NS–CMS electrodes synthesized for 6 h (543.1 μAh cm−2) and 18 h (636.7 μAh cm−2) at 7 mA cm−2. A coin‐cell‐type hybrid supercapacitor (HSC) is also fabricated to unveil the practical adaptability of NS–CMS NRAs‐12 h@NF electrode. Utilizing its structural and active material intriguing features, assembled coin‐cell‐type HSC achieves a high areal capacitance of 246.2 mF cm−2 (5 mA cm−2) along with maximum areal energy density (147 μWh cm−2) and power density (21.3 mW cm−2), respectively. Furthermore, the capability of coin‐cell‐type HSC in real‐time applications is also inspected. This work promotes in situ deposition strategy to fabricate metal sulfide‐based nanostructures for high‐performance electrochemical capacitors.
Surface Management for Carbon‐Based CsPbI2Br Perovskite Solar Cell with 14% Power Conversion Efficiency
Authors: Yu Fengyang , Han Qianji , Wang Liang , Yang Shuzhang , Cai Xiaoyong , Zhang Chu , Ma Tingli
Published: July 2021

Carbon‐based hole transport material (HTM)‐free CsPbI2Br perovskite solar cells (C‐PSCs) have garnered considerable attention due to their super thermal stability. The energy‐level mismatch between the CsPbI2Br perovskite and carbon electrodes, however, results in major energy loss and reduced power conversion efficiency (PCE) of C‐PSCs. Herein, 1‐butyl‐3‐methylimidazolium tetrafluoroborate (BMIMBF4) is used to manage the energy level, reduce defect densities, and improve the interface quality between CsPbI2Br and carbon electrodes. Preliminary results demonstrate that the BMIMBF4 modifier can passivate the surface defects of the perovskite film and reduce the energy‐level mismatch between the CsPbI2Br layer and the carbon electrode. A PCE of 14.03% is achieved by introducing BMIMBF4 which is improved by 23% compared with the control device (11.37%). Moreover, stability—whether in the case of C‐PSCs or CsPbI2Br films—is also improved.
Morphological disparity in the evolution of the ophthalmosaurid forefin: new clues from the Upper Jurassic of Argentina
Authors: Campos Lisandro , Fernández Marta S. , Herrera Yanina , Garrido Alberto
Published: July 2021

Jurassic and Cretaceous marine deposits worldwide show that ophthalmosaurid ichthyosaurs are major components of marine tetrapod communities for almost 76 myr. One of the major features characterizing this clade is the complexity and diversity of their stylopodium–zeugopodium morphology. Upper Jurassic deposits of the Vaca Muerta Formation in north‐west Patagonia (Argentina) have yielded the richest Tithonian ophthalmosaurid records from Gondwana. Here, we present a new ophthalmosaurid from this lithostratigraphic unit, Sumapalla argentina gen. et sp. nov., recognized based on several unique features of the skull roof, forefin, scapular, and pelvic girdles. On phylogenetic analysis it was recovered as a basal member of Platypterygiinae. The peculiar morphology of the forefin of the new taxon indicates a previously unnoticed morphological diversity in the ophthalmosaurid appendicular skeleton and provides an excellent opportunity to test its range of variation. For this purpose, we implemented a holistic approach, using 2D geometric morphometric analysis focused on the humerus, and disparity analysis of the zeugopodium. Our results reveal a long duration of one humeral morphotype characterizing Arthropterygius spp. and closely related taxa. Furthermore, we found a peak of zeugopodial disparity during the Kimmeridgian, followed by a decrease by the end of the Jurassic, and then a recovery by the Early Cretaceous.
Bond behavior of plain round bar embedded in high ductile concrete under monotonic and cyclic loading
Authors: Pan Jiaojiao , Deng Mingke , Sun Hongzhe
Published: July 2021

Bond behavior is the basis of combined action of steel bar and high ductile concrete (HDC), which has an important effect on the mechanical performance of reinforced HDC structures. In this paper, nine groups of pullout specimens were tested to investigate the bond behavior and degradation mechanism of plain round bar embedded in HDC under monotonic and cyclic loading. The design parameters included HDC compressive strength, HDC flexural toughness and anchorage length. Experimental results indicated that only a small free end slip occurred for specimens with plain round bar when the maximum bond stress was reached. Bond strength of polyethylene fiber specimens was 1.67 times that of polyvinyl alcohol fiber specimens. Compared with the monotonic specimens, the cyclic specimens exhibited an obvious degradation in bond strength and residual bond strength, and the degradation degree of former was more serious than that of latter. Besides, it also should be noted that the HDC compressive strength had a great influence on the energy dissipation capacity of cyclic specimens. Based on the test results, a calculating formula of bond strength was built. Then this paper proposed a bond stress‐slip relationship model for the plain round bar embedded in HDC under monotonic loading.
Dual‐phase‐lag heat conduction with microtemperatures
Authors: Liu Zhuangyi , Quintanilla Ramon , Wang Yang
Published: July 2021

In this paper, we propose a system of equations governing the dual‐phase‐lag heat conduction with microtemperatures. Several conditions on the coefficients are imposed so that the energy of the system is positive definite and dissipative. On this base we prove the well‐posedness and exponential stability of the system by means of the semigroup theory and frequency domain method.
Risk Mitigation Instruments Targeting Specific Investment Risks
Authors: Michoud Bruno , Hafner Manfred
Published: July 2021

This chapter focuses on instruments aimed at mitigating specific investment risks, including political, credit, currency and liquidity risks. It explores solutions emanating from both the public and private sectors.
Stand der empirischen Forschung
Authors: Czupalla Kai
Published: July 2021

Zur Existenz und Prävention von abschlusspolitischen Ergebnisspaltungen sind dem Verfasser der vorliegenden Arbeit die neun in der Tab. 1 angegebenen empirischen Studien bekannt. In den USA wurde die Existenz und Prävention von abschlusspolitischen Ergebnisspaltungen bereits mehrfach untersucht.
Theoretischer Bezugsrahmen
Authors: Czupalla Kai
Published: July 2021

Im vorliegenden Kapitel werden die Transaktionskostentheorie, die PrinzipalAgentenTheorie, eine Definition der Prüfungsqualität und die Prospect Theory vorgestellt, aus denen im Kapitel 5 die Hypothesen für die Existenz von abschlusspolitischen Ergebnisspaltungen abgeleitet werden. Da die Hypothesen für die Prävention von abschlusspolitischen Ergebnisspaltungen im Kapitel 6 und im Kapitel 7 ausschließlich auf der Prinzipal-Agenten-Theorie basieren, wird diese im vorliegenden Kapitel ausführlich behandelt und hinsichtlich Corporate-Governance-Mechanismen und der Abschlussprüfung konkretisiert. Abschließend wird die Vereinbarkeit der Transaktionskostentheorie, der Prinzipal-Agenten-Theorie und der Prospect Theory diskutiert und die Rechnungslegung in diese Theorien eingeordnet.
Tests für die Existenz von abschlusspolitischen Ergebnisspaltungen mit aufgegebenen Geschäftsbereichen
Authors: Czupalla Kai
Published: July 2021

Im Kapitel 5 wurden Hypothesen zur Existenz von abschlusspolitischen Ergebnisspaltungen aufgestellt. Im vorliegenden Kapitel werden diese Hypothesen empirisch getestet.
High-energy EFT probes with fully differential Drell-Yan measurements
Authors: Panico Giuliano , Ricci Lorenzo , Wulzer Andrea
Published: July 2021

Abstract

We study the potential of fully-differential measurements of high-energy dilepton cross-sections at the LHC to probe heavy new physics encapsulated in dimension-6 interaction operators. The assessment is performed in the seven-dimensional parameter space of operators that induce energy-growing corrections to the Standard Model partonic cross-sections at the interference level, and in the two-dimensional subspace associated with the W and Y parameters. A considerable sensitivity improvement is found relative to single-differential measurements, owing to the possibility of probing at the interference level more directions in the seven-dimensional parameter space. The reduction of parton distribution function uncertainties in the fully-differential fit is also found to play a significant role. The results are interpreted in the minimal Z′ new-physics model, providing a concrete illustration of the advantages of the fully-differential analysis. We find that high-energy dilepton measurements can extend the Z′ exclusion and discovery potential well beyond the reach of direct searches in a large region of the parameter space.
Unitary matrix models and random partitions: Universality and multi-criticality
Authors: Kimura Taro , Zahabi Ali
Published: July 2021

Abstract

The generating functions for the gauge theory observables are often represented in terms of the unitary matrix integrals. In this work, the perturbative and non-perturbative aspects of the generic multi-critical unitary matrix models are studied by adopting the integrable operator formalism, and the multi-critical generalization of the Tracy-Widom distribution in the context of random partitions. We obtain the universal results for the multi-critical model in the weak and strong coupling phases. The free energy of the instanton sector in the weak coupling regime, and the genus expansion of the free energy in the strong coupling regime are explicitly computed and the universal multi-critical phase structure of the model is explored. Finally, we apply our results in concrete examples of supersymmetric indices of gauge theories in the large N limit.
From gene banks to farmer’s fields: using genomic selection to identify donors for a breeding program in rice to close the yield gap on smallholder farms
Authors: Tanaka Ryokei , Lui-King James , Mandaharisoa Sarah Tojo , Rakotondramanana Mbolatantely , Ranaivo Harisoa Nicole , Pariasca-Tanaka Juan , Kanegae Hiromi Kajiya , Iwata Hiroyoshi , Wissuwa Matthias
Published: July 2021

Key message

Despite phenotyping the training set under unfavorable conditions on smallholder farms in Madagascar, we were able to successfully apply genomic prediction to select donors among gene bank accessions.

Poor soil fertility and low fertilizer application rates are main reasons for the large yield gap observed for rice produced in sub-Saharan Africa. Traditional varieties that are preserved in gene banks were shown to possess traits and alleles that would improve the performance of modern variety under such low-input conditions. How to accelerate the utilization of gene bank resources in crop improvement is an unresolved question and here our objective was to test whether genomic prediction could aid in the selection of promising donors. A subset of the 3,024 sequenced accessions from the IRRI rice gene bank was phenotyped for yield and agronomic traits for two years in unfertilized farmers’ fields in Madagascar, and based on these data, a genomic prediction model was developed. This model was applied to predict the performance of the entire set of 3024 accessions, and the top predicted performers were sent to Madagascar for confirmatory trials. The prediction accuracies ranged from 0.10 to 0.30 for grain yield, from 0.25 to 0.63 for straw biomass, to 0.71 for heading date. Two accessions have subsequently been utilized as donors in rice breeding programs in Madagascar. Despite having conducted phenotypic evaluations under challenging conditions on smallholder farms, our results are encouraging as the prediction accuracy realized in on-farm experiments was in the range of accuracies achieved in on-station studies. Thus, we could provide clear empirical evidence on the value of genomic selection in identifying suitable genetic resources for crop improvement, if genotypic data are available.