bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Individual diet variability shapes the architecture of Antarctic benthic food webs
Authors: Sporta Caputi Simona , Kabala Jerzy Piotr , Rossi Loreto , Careddu Giulio , Calizza Edoardo , Ventura Matteo , Costantini Maria Letizia
Published: May 2024

Antarctic biodiversity is affected by seasonal sea-ice dynamics driving basal resource availability. To (1) determine the role of intraspecific dietary variability in structuring benthic food webs sustaining Antarctic biodiversity, and (2) understand how food webs and the position of topologically central species vary with sea-ice cover, single benthic individuals’ diets were studied by isotopic analysis before sea-ice breakup and afterwards. Isotopic trophospecies (or Isotopic Trophic Units) were investigated and food webs reconstructed using Bayesian Mixing Models. As nodes, these webs used either ITUs regardless of their taxonomic membership (ITU-webs) or ITUs assigned to species (population-webs). Both were compared to taxonomic-webs based on taxa and their mean isotopic values. Higher resource availability after sea-ice breakup led to simpler community structure, with lower connectance and linkage density. Intra-population diet variability and compartmentalisation were crucial in determining community structure, showing population-webs to be more complex, stable and robust to biodiversity loss than taxonomic-webs. The core web, representing the minimal community ‘skeleton’ that expands opportunistically while maintaining web stability with changing resource availability, was also identified. Central nodes included the sea-urchin Sterechinus neumayeri and the bivalve Adamussium colbecki, whose diet is described in unprecedented detail. The core web, compartmentalisation and topologically central nodes represent crucial factors underlying Antarctica’s rich benthic food web persistence.
Effectiveness of innovative chest compression on the emergency department stretcher by an alternative method: a randomized controlled crossover trial
Authors: Charungwatthana Nawaphon , Laohakul Pavita , Tangsuwanaruk Theerapon , Wittayachamnankul Borwon
Published: May 2024

Comparison of the three methods standing-on-a-stool (SS), one knee kneeling on a stretcher (KS), and kneeling at the same height as the patient’s bed on the kneeling stool (KK) to evaluate the yielded of highest CPR quality and rescuer comfortability. A prospective randomized cross-over study which compares the three different rescuer positions for their effectiveness of chest compression. Conducted at a tertiary care between 19 and 22 Aug 2022. Emergency personnel aged 18 years or older, who completed the AHA-approved BLS course. The chest compression data was obtained by the ALIVE AED manikin® and AED reporting system. The information on the CPR quality and post-test questionnaires assessing the participants’ preference, satisfaction and modified Borg’s scale score was collected. The three methods shown no statistically significant difference in adequate chest compression depth (percentage). KK was not superior than SS at chest compression rate (P = 0.05). The adequate full chest recoil achieved with KK and KS were significantly higher than that of SS. However, there were no statistical difference between the three methods in the modified Borg’s scale score. Based on the satisfying score, the rescuers preferred KK to either SS (p 0.007) or KS (p 0.012). The three methods shown no statistically significant difference in adequate chest compression depth (percentage). Still, both KK and KS provided more adequate chest recoil, so we would recommend using these two methods in the ED.

Clinical trial registry: This study was retrospective registration in thaiclinicaltrials.org (TCTR20230119002, 19/1/2023).
Geometric phase analysis of magnetic skyrmion lattices in Lorentz transmission electron microscopy images
Authors: Denneulin Thibaud , Kovács András , Boltje Raluca , Kiselev Nikolai S. , Dunin-Borkowski Rafal E.
Published: May 2024

Magnetic skyrmions are quasi-particles with a swirling spin texture that form two-dimensional lattices. Skyrmion lattices can exhibit defects in response to geometric constraints, variations of temperature or applied magnetic fields. Measuring deformations in skyrmion lattices is important to understand the interplay between the lattice structure and external influences. Geometric phase analysis (GPA) is a Fourier-based image processing method that is used to measure deformation fields in high resolution transmission electron microscopy (TEM) images of crystalline materials. Here, we show that GPA can be applied quantitatively to Lorentz TEM images of two-dimensional skyrmion lattices obtained from a chiral magnet of FeGe. First, GPA is used to map deformation fields around a 5–7 dislocation and the results are compared with the linear theory of elasticity. Second, rotation angles between skyrmion crystal grains are measured and compared with angles calculated from the density of dislocations. Third, an orientational order parameter and the corresponding correlation function are calculated to describe the evolution of the disorder as a function of applied magnetic field. The influence of sources of artifacts such as geometric distortions and large defoci are also discussed.
Validation of novel conditional ligands and large-scale detection of antigen-specific T cells for H-2Dd and H-2Kd
Authors: Sundebo Meldgaard Trine , Viborg Nadia , Suarez Hernandez Sara , Vazquez Albacete Dario , Tamhane Tripti , Reker Hadrup Sine
Published: May 2024

The UV-mediated peptide exchange has enabled the generation of multiple different MHC multimer specificities in parallel, surpassing tedious individual refolding of MHC molecules with peptide ligands. Murine models are acknowledged as an effective tool for preclinical research to advance our understanding of immunological mechanisms, with the potential translatability of key learnings from mouse models to the clinic. The common inbred mouse strain BALB/c is frequently used in immunological research. However, for the BALB/c histocompatibility (H)-2 alleles availability of conditional ligand has been limited. To overcome this challenge, we design and experimentally validate conditional ligands restricted to murine MHC class I alleles H2Dd and H2Kd. In addition, we demonstrate the ability of the three H2d molecules and two additional C57BL/6 H2b molecules folded in-house with conditional ligands to generate fluorescently labeled peptide-H2 tetramers that allow staining of antigen-specific CD8+ T cells in splenocyte samples. Finally, we generate large peptide-H-2 multimer libraries with a DNA-barcode labeling system for high-throughput interrogation of CD8+ T cell specificity in murine splenocyte samples. Consequently, the described techniques will contribute to our understanding of the antigen-specific CD8+ T cell repertoire in murine preclinical models of various diseases.
Reliable anti-cancer drug sensitivity prediction and prioritization
Authors: Lenhof Kerstin , Eckhart Lea , Rolli Lisa-Marie , Volkamer Andrea , Lenhof Hans-Peter
Published: May 2024

The application of machine learning (ML) to solve real-world problems does not only bear great potential but also high risk. One fundamental challenge in risk mitigation is to ensure the reliability of the ML predictions, i.e., the model error should be minimized, and the prediction uncertainty should be estimated. Especially for medical applications, the importance of reliable predictions can not be understated. Here, we address this challenge for anti-cancer drug sensitivity prediction and prioritization. To this end, we present a novel drug sensitivity prediction and prioritization approach guaranteeing user-specified certainty levels. The developed conformal prediction approach is applicable to classification, regression, and simultaneous regression and classification. Additionally, we propose a novel drug sensitivity measure that is based on clinically relevant drug concentrations and enables a straightforward prioritization of drugs for a given cancer sample.
Analyzing the methanation thermodynamic feasibility of steel plant byproduct gases
Authors: Ling Qiang , Li Xue , Pei Qin , Lei Zhao , Cui Ping , Xie Rui Lun
Published: May 2024

To improve the utilization of byproduct gases in the steel plant, the coke oven gas (COG) methanation combined with blast furnace gas (BFG) and basic oxygen furnace gas (BOFG) was proposed in viewpoint of economy and environment. The optimization mathematics model based on Gibbs free energy minimization was established to predict the thermodynamic feasibility of the proposed methanation. To solve the proposed model, the convenient method was implemented by using the Gibbs module in Aspen Plus software. Effects of operation parameters on the methanation performance were revealed to identify the optimized conditions. To reduce the solid carbon concentration, it was found that the optimized conditions of temperature, pressure and stoichiometric number were 650 °C, 30 bar and 3.0, respectively. Moreover, it was discovered that 10 mol% of BFG or BOFG could be mixed into COG to obtain the maximum methane yield. In addition, it was testified that there were the good agreements between calculated results and industrial and published data, which indicated that the proposed methanation was thermodynamically feasible. Therefore, the simple and easy method was developed to evaluate the methanation operating conditions from the aspect of thermodynamic equilibrium, which provided the basic process conditions of byproduct gases methanation to enhance the steel plant efficiency and reduce carbon emissions.
Making acute ischemic stroke thrombi visible in MRI imaging
Authors: Velasco Gonzalez Aglaé , Buerke Boris , Görlich Dennis , Sauerland Cristina , Fobker Manfred , Jeibmann Astrid , Heindel Walter , Faldum Andreas , Paulus Werner , Kugel Harald
Published: May 2024

Knowledge of thrombus behavior and visualization on MRI in acute ischemic stroke is less than optimal. However, MRI sequences could be enhanced based on the typical T1 and T2 relaxation times of the target tissues, which mainly determine their signal intensities on imaging. We studied the relaxation times of a broad spectrum of clot analogs along with their image characteristics of three sequences analyzed: a T1-weighted turbo inversion-recovery sequence (T1w Turbo IR), a T1-weighted turbo spin echo with fat suppression (T1w TSE SPIR), and a T2-weighted 3D TSE with magnetization refocusing to remove T1 dependence (T2w TSE DRIVE). We compared their imaging behavior with the intensity values of normal brain tissue using the same imaging protocols as for clots. Each histological and biochemical clot component contributed to each of the relaxation times. Overall, histological composition correlated strongly with T1 times, and iron content, specifically, with T2 relaxation time. Using decision trees, fibrin content was selected as the primary biomarker for T1 relaxation times, inducing an increase. Up to four clot subgroups could be defined based on its distinctive T1 relaxation time. Clot signal intensity in the T1 and T2-weighted images varied significantly according to T1 and T2 relaxation times. Moreover, in comparison with normal brain tissue intensity values, T2w DRIVE images depict thrombi according to the principle of the more fibrin, the higher the intensity, and in T1w TSE, the more erythrocytes, the higher the intensity. These findings could facilitate improvements in MRI sequences for clot visualization and indicate that T2w DRIVE and T1w TSE sequences should depict the vast majority of acute ischemic stroke thrombi as more hyperintense than surrounding tissues.
A randomized, controlled clinical trial demonstrates improved owner-assessed cognitive function in senior dogs receiving a senolytic and NAD+ precursor combination
Authors: Simon Katherine E. , Russell Katharine , Mondino Alejandra , Yang Chin-Chieh , Case Beth C. , Anderson Zachary , Whitley Christine , Griffith Emily , Gruen Margaret E. , Olby Natasha J.
Published: May 2024

Age-related decline in mobility and cognition are associated with cellular senescence and NAD + depletion in dogs and people. A combination of a novel NAD + precursor and senolytic, LY-D6/2, was examined in this randomized controlled trial. Seventy dogs with mild to moderate cognitive impairment were enrolled and allocated into placebo, low or full dose groups. Primary outcomes were change in cognitive impairment measured with the owner-reported Canine Cognitive Dysfunction Rating (CCDR) scale and change in activity measured with physical activity monitors. Fifty-nine dogs completed evaluations at the 3-month primary endpoint, and 51 reached the 6-month secondary endpoint. There was a significant difference in CCDR score across treatment groups from baseline to the primary endpoint (p = 0.02) with the largest decrease in the full dose group. No difference was detected between groups using in house cognitive testing. There were no significant differences between groups in changes in measured activity. The proportion of dogs that improved in frailty and owner-reported activity levels and happiness was higher in the full dose group than other groups, however this difference was not significant. Adverse events occurred equally across groups. All groups showed improvement in cognition, frailty, and activity suggesting placebo effect and benefits of trial participation. We conclude that LY-D6/2 improves owner-assessed cognitive function over a 3-month period and may have broader, but more subtle effects on frailty, activity and happiness as reported by owners.
Soil moisture and soil organic carbon coupled effects in apple orchards on the Loess Plateau, China
Authors: Han Lei , Nan Guowei , He Xinyu , Wang Jinghui , Zhao Jirong , Zhang Xiangqian
Published: May 2024

A large number of economic forests, especially apple orchards (AOs) in the Loess Plateau region of China, have been planted to develop the local economy and increase the income of farmers.

The two main constraints preventing AOs on the Loess Plateau from developing sustainably and producing a high and steady yield are soil moisture content (SMC) and soil organic carbon (SOC). Nevertheless, little is currently known about the contributions of roots to these changes in the soil profile and the temporal modes of the SMC-SOC coupled effects. In our research, we analyzed the dynamic changes in SMC and SOC in AOs of various years in northern Shaanxi Province, as well as the coupled relationship between the two, and attempted to describe the function of roots in these changes. Research have shown: (1) As the age of the AOs increased, the SMC continued to decline throughout the 0–500 cm profile, especially at depths of 100–500 cm. SMC depletion mainly occurred in AOs aged 20 years (30.02%/year) and 30 years (31.18%/year). (2) Compared with abandoned land (AL), all the AOs except for the 6-year-old AO showed a carbon sequestration effect, and the carbon sequestration effect increased with age. The carbon sequestration rate of the 12-year-old AO was the highest and then decreased with age. Both surface and deeper soils showed better carbon sequestration, with a large amount of SOC being sequestered in deeper soil layers (> 100 cm). (3) The coupled effects of SMC and SOC varied with age and depth. The SMC in the deeper layers was significantly negatively correlated with SOC. Root dry weight density (RDWD) was significantly negatively correlated with SMC and significantly positively correlated with SOC. Path analysis suggested that SMC directly affects SOC at different soil depths, and regulates SOC by affecting RDWD, but these effects are significantly different at different depths. Therefore, we propose that management of AO should focus on the moisture deficit and carbon sequestration capabilities of deeper soils to ensure the sustainability of water use in AOs and the stability of agricultural carbon sequestration on the Loess Plateau.
North American pitseed goosefoot (Chenopodium berlandieri) is a genetic resource to improve Andean quinoa (C. quinoa)
Authors: Maughan Peter J. , Jarvis David E. , de la Cruz-Torres Eulogio , Jaggi Kate E. , Warner Heather C. , Marcheschi Ashley K. , Bertero H. Daniel , Gomez-Pando Luz , Fuentes Francisco , Mayta-Anco Mayela E. , Curti Ramiro , Rey Elodie , Tester Mark , Jellen Eric N.
Published: May 2024

Pitseed goosefoot (Chenopodium berlandieri) is a free-living North American member of an allotetraploid complex that includes the Andean pseudocereal quinoa (C. quinoa). Like quinoa, pitseed goosefoot was domesticated, possibly independently, in eastern North America (subsp. jonesianum) and Mesoamerica (subsp. nuttaliae). To test the utility of C. berlandieri as a resource for quinoa breeding, we produced the whole-genome DNA sequence of PI 433,231, a huauzontle from Puebla, México. The 1.295 Gb genome was assembled into 18 pseudomolecules and annotated using RNAseq data from multiple tissues. Alignment with the v.2.0 genome of Chilean-origin C. quinoa cv. ‘QQ74’ revealed several inversions and a 4A-6B reciprocal translocation. Despite these rearrangements, some quinoa x pitseed goosefoot crosses produce highly fertile hybrids with faithful recombination, as evidenced by a high-density SNP linkage map constructed from a Bolivian quinoa ‘Real-1’ × BYU 937 (Texas coastal pitseed goosefoot) F2 population. Recombination in that cross was comparable to a ‘Real-1’ × BYU 1101 (Argentine C. hircinum) F2 population. Furthermore, SNP-based phylogenetic and population structure analyses of 90 accessions supported the hypothesis of multiple independent domestications and descent from a common 4 × ancestor, with a likely North American Center of Origin.
Exploring regenerative coupling in phononic crystals for room temperature quantum optomechanics
Authors: Weituschat Lukas M. , Castro Irene , Colomar Irene , Everly Christer , Postigo Pablo A. , Ramos Daniel
Published: May 2024

Quantum technologies play a pivotal role in driving transformative advancements across diverse fields, surpassing classical approaches and empowering us to address complex challenges more effectively; however, the need for ultra-low temperatures limits the use of these technologies to particular fields. This work comes to alleviate this problem. We present a way of phononic bandgap engineering using FEM by which the radiative mechanical energy dissipation of a nanomechanical oscillator can be significantly suppressed through coupling with a complementary oscillating mode of a defect of the surrounding phononic crystal (PnC). Applied to an optomechanically coupled nanobeam resonator in the megahertz regime, we find a mechanical quality factor improvement of up to four orders of magnitude compared to conventional PnC designs. As this method is based on geometrical optimization of the PnC and frequency matching of the resonator and defect mode, it is applicable to a wide range of resonator types and frequency ranges. Taking advantage of the, hereinafter referred to as, “regenerative coupling” in phononic crystals, the presented device is capable of reaching f × Q products exceeding 10E16 Hz with only two rows of PnC shield. Thus, stable quantum states with mechanical decoherence times up to 700 μs at room temperature can be obtained, offering new opportunities for the optimization of mechanical resonator performance and advancing the room temperature quantum field across diverse applications.
Association of obstructive sleep apnea with risk of lung cancer: a nationwide cohort study in Korea
Authors: Cho Jaeyoung , Jo Soomin
Published: May 2024

Current knowledge regarding the relationship between obstructive sleep apnea (OSA) and the risk of lung cancer is limited. This study aimed to evaluate associations between OSA and the incidence of lung cancer based on the Korean National Health Information Database. The study outcome was the incidence of newly diagnosed lung cancer, and a Cox proportional hazards model was used for analysis. A total of 181,070 adult patients newly diagnosed with OSA between 2011 and 2018 were matched with those without OSA by up to 1:5 propensity score matching based on age and sex. During follow-up over (mean ± standard deviation) 9.1 ± 2.0 years, 2614 incident cases of lung cancer were identified. The incidence rate was 39.51 per 100,000 person-years in the OSA group, and 24.93 per 100,000 person-years in the control group. After adjusting for income and the presence of comorbidities, the association remained significant (hazard ratio [HR] 1.95, 95% confidence interval [CI] 1.74–2.18, p-value < 0.001). The adjusted HR for incident lung cancer was 2.14 (95% CI 1.69–2.70) in female patients with OSA, and 1.90 (95% CI 1.67–2.16) in male patients with OSA. The risk of incident lung cancer increased with age, with a HR of 2.99 (95% CI 2.46–3.64) in those aged ≥ 65 years. This nationwide study showed an independent association between OSA and an increased risk of lung cancer in the Korean population.
A case–control study on pre-, peri-, and neonatal risk factors associated with autism spectrum disorder among Armenian children
Authors: Mkhitaryan Meri , Avetisyan Tamara , Mkhoyan Anna , Avetisyan Larisa , Yenkoyan Konstantin
Published: May 2024

We aimed to investigate the role of pre-, peri- and neonatal risk factors in the development of autism spectrum disorder (ASD) among Armenian children with the goal of detecting and addressing modifiable risk factors to reduce ASD incidence. For this purpose a retrospective case–control study using a random proportional sample of Armenian children with ASD to assess associations between various factors and ASD was conducted. The study was approved by the local ethical committee, and parental written consent was obtained. A total of 168 children with ASD and 329 controls were included in the analysis. Multivariable logistic regression analysis revealed that male gender, maternal weight gain, use of MgB6, self-reported stress during the pregnancy, pregnancy with complications, as well as use of labor-inducing drugs were associated with a significant increase in the odds of ASD, whereas Duphaston use during pregnancy, the longer interpregnancy interval and birth height were associated with decreased odds of ASD. These findings are pertinent as many identified factors may be preventable or modifiable, underscoring the importance of timely and appropriate public health strategies aimed at disease prevention in pregnant women to reduce ASD incidence.
Spatial confinement affects the heterogeneity and interactions between shoaling fish
Authors: Kuntz Gabriel , Huang Junxiang , Rask Mitchell , Lindgren-Ruby Alex , Shinsato Jacob Y. , Bi Dapeng , Tabatabai A. Pasha
Published: May 2024

Living objects are able to consume chemical energy and process information independently from others. However, living objects can coordinate to form ordered groups such as schools of fish. This work considers these complex groups as living materials and presents imaging-based experiments of laboratory schools of fish to understand how activity, which is a non-equilibrium feature, affects the structure and dynamics of a group. We use spatial confinement to control the motion and structure of fish within quasi-2D shoals of fish and use image analysis techniques to make quantitative observations of the structures, their spatial heterogeneity, and their temporal fluctuations. Furthermore, we utilize Monte Carlo simulations to replicate the experimentally observed data which provides insight into the effective interactions between fish and confirms the presence of a confinement-based behavioral preference transition. In addition, unlike in short-range interacting systems, here structural heterogeneity and dynamic activities are positively correlated as a result of complex interplay between spatial arrangement and behavioral dynamics in fish collectives.
Deep learning to assess microsatellite instability directly from histopathological whole slide images in endometrial cancer
Authors: Wang Ching-Wei , Muzakky Hikam , Firdi Nabila Puspita , Liu Tzu-Chien , Lai Po-Jen , Wang Yu-Chi , Yu Mu-Hsien , Chao Tai-Kuang
Published: May 2024

Molecular classification, particularly microsatellite instability-high (MSI-H), has gained attention for immunotherapy in endometrial cancer (EC). MSI-H is associated with DNA mismatch repair defects and is a crucial treatment predictor. The NCCN guidelines recommend pembrolizumab and nivolumab for advanced or recurrent MSI-H/mismatch repair deficient (dMMR) EC. However, evaluating MSI in all cases is impractical due to time and cost constraints. To overcome this challenge, we present an effective and efficient deep learning-based model designed to accurately and rapidly assess MSI status of EC using H&E-stained whole slide images. Our framework was evaluated on a comprehensive dataset of gigapixel histopathology images of 529 patients from the Cancer Genome Atlas (TCGA). The experimental results have shown that the proposed method achieved excellent performances in assessing MSI status, obtaining remarkably high results with 96%, 94%, 93% and 100% for endometrioid carcinoma G1G2, respectively, and 87%, 84%, 81% and 94% for endometrioid carcinoma G3, in terms of F-measure, accuracy, precision and sensitivity, respectively. Furthermore, the proposed deep learning framework outperforms four state-of-the-art benchmarked methods by a significant margin (p < 0.001) in terms of accuracy, precision, sensitivity and F-measure, respectively. Additionally, a run time analysis demonstrates that the proposed method achieves excellent quantitative results with high efficiency in AI inference time (1.03 seconds per slide), making the proposed framework viable for practical clinical usage. These results highlight the efficacy and efficiency of the proposed model to assess MSI status of EC directly from histopathological slides.
Fasting alleviates metabolic alterations in mice with propionyl-CoA carboxylase deficiency due to Pcca mutation
Authors: He Wentao , Marchuk Hannah , Koeberl Dwight , Kasumov Takhar , Chen Xiaoxin , Zhang Guo-Fang
Published: May 2024

Propionic acidemia (PA), resulting fromPcca or Pccbgene mutations, impairs propionyl-CoA metabolism and induces metabolic alterations. While speculation exists that fasting might exacerbate metabolic crises in PA patients by accelerating the breakdown of odd-chain fatty acids and amino acids into propionyl-CoA, direct evidence is lacking. Our investigation into the metabolic effects of fasting inPcca-/-(A138T) mice, a PA model, reveals surprising outcomes. Propionylcarnitine, a PA biomarker, decreases during fasting, along with the C3/C2 (propionylcarnitine/acetylcarnitine) ratio, ammonia, and methylcitrate. Although moderate amino acid catabolism to propionyl-CoA occurs with a 23-h fasting, a significant reduction in microbiome-produced propionate and increased fatty acid oxidation mitigate metabolic alterations by decreasing propionyl-CoA synthesis and enhancing acetyl-CoA synthesis. Fasting-induced gluconeogenesis further facilitates propionyl-CoA catabolism without changing propionyl-CoA carboxylase activity. These findings suggest that fasting may alleviate metabolic alterations inPcca-/-(A138T) mice, prompting the need for clinical evaluation of its potential impact on PA patients.
Deriving multi-metal nanomaterials on metal–organic framework platforms for oxygen electrocatalysis
Authors: Cui Mingjin , Xu Bo , Ding Yu , Sun Wenping , Liu Huakun , Dou Shixue
Published: May 2024

Synthetic strategies and oxygen electrocatalytic applications of high-entropy alloy multi-metal nanomaterials derived on metal–organic frameworks.
Nano-enzyme functionalized hydrogels promote diabetic wound healing through immune microenvironment modulation
Authors: Pu Chaoyu , Wang Yong , Li Yuling , Wang Yi , Li Linfeng , Xiang Honglin , Sun Qiyuan , Yong Yuan , Yang Hanfeng , Jiang Ke
Published: May 2024

GelMA@Mg-POM can clear ROS, regulate the immune microenvironment, and promote wound healing in diabetes.
Catalytic deoxygenation of stearic acid into olefins over Pt catalysts supported on MOF-derived metal oxides
Authors: Tan Kok Bing , Liu Yiping , Wang Youting , Ali Sajid , Wang Wendong , Li Jingru , Shang Longmei , Yan Xing , Zhang Xiaodong , Zhan Guowu
Published: May 2024

The deoxygenation of stearic acid over Pt supported on different metal oxides can affect the product selectivity.
Light-induced spin-state switching in Fe(ii) spin-crossover complexes with thiazole-based chelating ligands
Authors: Jo Minyoung , Amanyazova Botagoz , Yergeshbayeva Sandugash , Gakiya-Teruya Miguel , Üngör Ökten , Lopez Rivera Paola , Jen Natalie , Lukyanenko Evgeny , Kurkin Alexander V. , Erkasov Rakhmetulla , Meisel Mark W. , Hauser Andreas , Chakraborty Pradip , Shatruk Michael
Published: May 2024

Three homoleptic Fe(ii) complexes with bidentate thiazole-based ligands exhibit spin-crossover (SCO) at the metal center. Abrupt temperature-driven and light-induced spin transitions are observed due to cooperative interactions between SCO cations.
Magnesium fluoride-engineered UiO-66 artificial protection layers for dendrite-free lithium metal batteries
Authors: Jang Kunik , Song Hee Jo , Park Jung Been , Jung Sang Won , Kim Dong-Wan
Published: May 2024

The MgF2 and F-terminated groups effectively infiltrated the ion transport channels within UiO-66, thereby regulating the desolvation process and facilitating rapid Li+ transport kinetics.
Ecologically viable carbon nano-onions for the efficient removal of methyl orange azo dye and its environmental assessment
Authors: Kumari Poonam , Tripathi Kumud Malika , Awasthi Kamlendra , Gupta Ragini
Published: May 2024

The performance of carbon nano-onions in removing methyl orange dye from wastewater.
A novel NIR fluorescent probe for in situ visualizing Fe(ii) and its application in drug-induced liver/kidney injury
Authors: Xiang Hanyue , Song Yanjie , Wang Yilin , Fu Wenzhuo , Xiao Nao
Published: May 2024

A novel NIR fluorescent probe MDJ-O was designed to image Fe2+in vivo, in vitro and in APAP-induced liver and kidney injury.
Four-component regio-divergent carbonylative condensations for the sustainable syntheses of acylhydrazones
Authors: Jiang Wenjun , Pang Mengdi , Cai Yan , Zhang Guohui , Liu Yaru , Zhang Guoying
Published: May 2024

Novel catalytic four-component regiodivergent tandem carbonylative condensations of alkenes for the sustainable syntheses of acylhydrazones with high atom economy and excellent chemoselectivity have been developed.
Unveiling the dual activation effect of NHC-catalyst in an asymmetric reaction system
Authors: Wang Wei , Peng Xiaolin , Yang Xiaoyan , Chi Yonggui Robin , Hao Gefei
Published: May 2024

The dual activation of NHC-catalyst is revealed by DFT. Reaction kinetic control is the determining factor for chemoselectivity. Non-covalent interactions among substrates and the dual activation effect of NHC-catalyst determine stereoselectivity.
Photoinduced radical alkylation of aldehydes with potassium alkyltrifluoroborates
Authors: Zhilyaev Kirill A. , Zubkov Mikhail O. , Kosobokov Mikhail D. , Levin Vitalij V. , Dilman Alexander D.
Published: May 2024

A method for radical addition at aldehydes is described. The reaction is based on the interplay of radical attack and cleavage processes occurring at a boron complexed carbonyl group.
para-Selective radical alkylation of pyridines with diacyl peroxides and peresters
Authors: Wang Zhe , Xu Pengwei , Studer Armido
Published: May 2024

A regioselective para-alkylation of pyridines using alkyl carboxylic acid-derived diacyl peroxides or peresters is reported. This reaction proceeds under mild conditions, and late-stage functionalization of complex pyridines can be realized.
Investigation on Mechanical Properties of Self-Consolidating Concrete containing Slag Aggregate
Authors: Vinoth S. , Rajeshkumar V. , Santhosh N. , Nandhini S. , Manisha S. , Robin R. Mohan Raj
Published: May 2024

This paper presents the investigation results on self-consolidating concrete (SCC) produced with slag aggregate (SA). The characteristics of materials, sieve distribution of aggregates, design of self-consolidating concrete mixture and its fresh concrete properties test such as slump flow test, V-funnel, U-funnel and L-box are analyzed. The mechanical properties of SCC are with two different grades slag aggregate is tested for compressive strength (f’c), split tensile strength (fst), young’s modulus (Ec) and durability test. The investigation result on concrete mechanical properties shows that mix with larger aggregate exhibits higher values than the companion mix with smaller aggregate. Although it exhibits fairly optimum strength characteristics with slag aggregate substitution but the higher percentage of replacement affects the durability properties. This study leaves a positive way of application of slag aggregate in concrete.
Evaluation of Pozzolanic activity and lime reactivity of fly ash, GGBS, mica powder and pumice as binders
Authors: Ramanujam I.V. Ranga , Reddy K. Ramachandra , Ramana N. Venkata
Published: May 2024

This article presents the effect of the pozzolanic activity and lime reactivity of various siliceous materials, like fly ash, GGBS (Ground granulated blast furnace slag), mica and pumice powders. The pozzolanic activity is evaluated as per ASTM and lime reactivity test as per IS 1727. Based on the ASTM C311 tests, at 28 days GGBS, pumice and fly ash showed 71%,12% and 9% improvement in strength respectively in comparison with the control mix for 20% replacement of binder. Mica powder showed decrease of strength in comparison with the control mix. It has been observed that all binders satisfy the criteria of requirement of strength as per ASTM C311 activity index which is greater than 0.75. Based on the lime reactivity tests carried out as per IS 1727 carried out, maximum lime reactivity has been observed in case of GGBS (26%), followed by fly ash (25%), pumice (9%) and mica powder (8%) in comparison with the control mix with 20% replacement of hydrated lime.
Comparative Study on Various Properties of Paver Block Produced from Municipal Plastic Waste
Authors: Senthil Rajan M. , Manoj K.M. , Dharun M. , Navanithakrishnan S. , Shiyamala
Published: May 2024

In order to lower the cost of paver blocks and use waste plastic bottles in the manufacturing process instead of using conventional concrete paver blocks, this study proposes to substitute coarse aggregates with plastic trash in paver blocks. The project’s goals are to make paver blocks more affordable while also reducing environmental pollution and plastic waste in a beneficial way. For the experiment, three different types of nine paver blocks, each measuring 220 x 180 x 70 mm and 240 x 120 x 60 mm, were created. In this study, we combined various amounts of plastic trash with coarse gravel and sand. After the paver blocks were assembled and put through testing, the findings showed improved compressive strength and water absorption. Hydrocarbons, which can be obtained from a variety of sources including coal, oil, and certain minerals, are used to make plastic. There are many different types of plastic, such as Low Thickness Polyethylene (LDPE) and High Thickness Polyethylene (HDPE). These leftover polymers are then to be effectively utilized in the production of paver squares. To produce high-quality blocks with warm and sound protection qualities to deal with contamination and to lower the overall cost of development, low-thickness polyethylene is spotlessly mixed with the sand and aggregate at different rates. This is probably the most ideal approach to prevent the collection of plastic waste.
A Comprehensive Review on Using Sustainable Materials for Environmentally Friendly Construction Practices
Authors: Kumar B. Santhosh , Chandrashekar Rakesh , Theres Kurien Salini , Nijhawan Ginni , Pahwa Shilpa , Habelalmateen Mohammed I. , Khan Irfan
Published: May 2024

This study examines the difficulties in implementing sustainable building practices in the construction industry, with a particular emphasis on the lack of details and cost views as the main barriers. The Use of the material in concrete, combining environmental advantages as well as limitations, and utilizing recovered solid waste in geopolymer composites for sustainable building are all explored in this research. With regard to sustainable materials and technologies in the construction sector, the research studies provide a thorough overview that points the way for future investigation and implementation.
Experimental Investigation on Silica Fume and Metakaolin in Self-Curing Concrete
Authors: Sankar K. Vijay , Kumar S. Pream , Nandhini U. , Karthikeyan K. , Chandhr C. , Nagalingam K.
Published: May 2024

Concrete is an example of a composite material that has become an essential component in the building and construction sector. Using pozzolanic materials like fly ash, silica fume, blast furnace slag, and metakaolin is being tested as one method of increasing the durability of concrete. The effect of cement that has serious negative impacts on the environment can be eliminated by using this additional cementitious material. In this investigation, an effort has been taken to examine the strength characteristics of concrete mixtures of M20 grade with cement partially replaced by metakaolin and silica fume and with all of the fine aggregate replaced by M-sand. To replace traditional curing, polyethylene glycol 6000 is used as a self-curing agent. Metakaolin is substituted at a rate of 5%, 10%, 15%, and 20% by weight of cement, while silica fume is substituted at a rate of 5%, 10%, and 15%, respectively. Self-curing concrete is created by adding 1.5% polyethylene glycol 6000 to regular concrete. The mortar cubes (1:3 ratio) are used in this project because it focuses on replacing the cement and fine aggregate. To study the mechanical properties of the concrete, cubes, cylinders, and prisms will be cast from the ideal percentage and tested.
Use of plastic waste as recycled material in the concrete
Authors: Devi KSKN Venkata Ramana , K Aravinda , A N Abhijith Kumar , Sorabh Lakhanpal , Arora Sethi Vandana , Muhamed Hayidr , Yadav Dinesh Kumar
Published: May 2024

In this study, we examined the effect of adding recycled plastics to concrete. The waste plastics were collected from a local market. The disposal of plastics is a major issue with many negative consequences. Plastic, being inorganic, does not change the chemical characteristics of concrete and has no effect on its quality or consistency, making it an ideal material for use in the construction industry, where it may help reduce plastic waste. Plastic has dual uses in concrete as a filler ingredient and as an additive to enhance the mechanical properties of the material. The concrete was prepared using five different amounts of aggregate
substitution by volume: 10%, 20%, 30%, 40%, and 50%. Cubes and beams were cast, cured, and tested using a universal testing machine. A mixed proportion was made using the different ingredients used in the concrete. At 7, 21, and 28 d, the results showed that the compressive and flexural strengths increased as the percentage of plastic waste increased. Also, flexural strength improved with an increase in the proportion of plastic waste, reaching a maximum at 30%. These results highlight that, as plastic fiber decreases the quantity of industrial fibers needed in concrete, it is also proven to be more inexpensive.
Investigation on Feasibility of Utilizing Coffee-Husk Ash as an Alkaline Activator in Geopolymer Concrete
Authors: P V Gokul , Kadarkarai Arunkumar , Thomas Elizabeth , Revi Aparna , R Nair Indrajith , Althaf Muhammad
Published: May 2024

Cement production is the major source of global warming which induces 7% of total greenhouse gas emissions. Reducing the use of cement in construction industry needs to be adopted by any of the alternates. One of the best alternates to reduce the impact caused by the cement production process is geopolymer concrete which can completely replace the usage of cement. Geopolymer is trending technology which possess numerous advantages than ordinary Portland cement concrete technology. Geopolymer is produced by the mixing of solid precursor and monomer. Most widely used solid precursors are waste industrial byproducts such as fly ash, GGBS, metakaolin etc., and monomers are alkaline activators like sodium hydroxide and Na2SiO3. Meanwhile, the properties of geopolymer concrete are decided by the various parameters such as quantity of aluminosilicate source in precursor, ratio of NaO/SiO2, SiO2/Al2O3, NaOH/NaSiO3, solution to binder ratio, concentration of NaOH etc., The alkaline activators mostly used are chemical activators which is harmful to humans. Hence, there is a need of finding an alternate for chemical activators in the geopolymer concrete. In this proposed methodology, the chemical alkaline activators have been completely replaced by the waste residue product named coffee husk. Coffee husk is a residue produced from the coffee powder production industry. A total of 18.29 MMT of coffee husk ash has been produced every year. Coffee husk has an inbuilt composition of potassium which is one of the alkaline activators. However, the coffee husk ash needs to be calcinated by the use of oven before to use. In this research, an attempt has been made to utilize the Coffee husk ash (CA), as an alkaline activator and efficient activation mechanism of CA will be examined.
Utilization of Cockle Shell Ash, Sea sand and Plastic Waste in the Manufacture of Paver Blocks
Authors: Caroline James Silpa , Athira Ashok , Suresh Vrindha , G Sujith , B Vishnu
Published: May 2024

The cockle shell is categorized as industrial waste and often disposed of in open dumping zones, especially in coastal areas. Therefore, an eco-friendly solution to this disposal issue is crucial, as it can transform waste into a high-value product, such as a partial cement replacement. Also, as there is a growing interest in using alternatives to sand as a replacement for fine aggregate in concrete, in this study we used plastic coated sea sand as a partial replacement for fine aggregate. The design mix is formulated for a non-traffic application, with varying percentages of cockle shell ash and plastic-coated sea sand replacing cement and fine aggregate, respectively. Two curing methods, normal water curing and accelerated curing, are applied. The samples are then tested for compression strength and water absorption after 28 days of curing. The findings indicate that compressive strength value increased with increase in both cockle shell ash content as well as plastic coated sea sand content. The water absorption value increased with increase in cockle shell ash content and decreased with increase in plastic coated sea sand content. Hence, this composite material is suitable for use in paver blocks.
Improving Fire Resistance in E-Vehicles: A Study on MPP-Enhanced S-Glass/Phenolic Hybrid Composites
Authors: S Sakthivel , S Magibalan , S Jeyaprakasam , J Venkatraman
Published: May 2024

The automotive industry has benefited greatly from the advancements in fireproof, high-strength fiber-reinforced polymer matrix composites during the last several decades. S-Glass/Phenolic hybrid composites made by hydraulic compression molding are the subject of this investigation into the effects of Melamine Polyphosphate (MPP) on their thermal and fire performance. In addition to studying the morphology of the samples, researchers analyzed the thermal and fire performances of hybrid laminates made with neat laminates and varying compositions of MPP (ranging from 3% to 15% by weight). Tests included UL 94, limiting oxygen index (LOI), and the impacts of accelerated heat ageing on the behavior of the hybrid specimens. The results demonstrated that specimens filled with higher MPP performed better in a fire compared to neat samples. According to the results in UL 94 horizontal burning test and vertical burning test, specimens filled with 12 and 15 wt. % MPP demonstrated a reduced flame spreading rate and fulfilled the V-0 criteria. Simultaneously, the energy absorption capacity of hybrid configurations is severely limited by heat ageing, due to its temperature and duration dependent. The research proved that the suggested S-Glass / Phenolic / Melamine Polyphosphate hybrid composites were suitable for creating environmentally friendly electric vehicle battery housings and fire-resistant automotive parts.
Voltage Source Converter based High Voltage Direct Current Transmission: A Comprehensive Review of Control Strategies, Developments and Trends
Authors: Gangikunta Manohar , B Pakkirayya , Murugan A.S.S. , Kar Rajib Kumar
Published: May 2024

The continuous increasing progress in high power and high voltage semiconductor devices leads to have a substantial impact on optimization and effective management of electric grids. These developments have great influence on High Voltage Direct Current (HVDC) and flexible ac controller technologies. This article gives an outline of the innovations in Voltage source Converter (VSC) based HVDC technology. VSC based HVDC technology offers decent advantages which includes interconnection of asynchronous networks, bulk power transmission and voltage stability support. VSC based HVDC technology niche utilities to grab opportunities in incorporating large scale renewable energy sources to the grid, especially on shore /offshore wind energy to the grid. Furthermore, VSC-based HVDC technology is essential for maintaining voltage stability in networks of interconnected grids. In the face of changing loads and the incorporation of renewable energy, these systems help to maintain grid dependability and resilience by offering dynamic voltage management and wattless power support.This article highlights the transformative potential of VSC-based HVDC technology in modernizing and future-proofing electric grids. By leveraging the latest innovations in semiconductor devices and control technologies, VSC-based HVDC systems empower grid operators to overcome existing challenges and embrace the opportunities presented by the evolving energy landscape.
Development and Evaluation of a Small-Scale Organic Rankine Cycle for CSP Integration
Authors: M K Murthi , Babu D Magesh , A Sivalingam , S Rahul , Iftekhar Hussain Beporam , R Karthikeyan
Published: May 2024

The paper details the development, manufacturing, and evaluation of a compact Organic Rankine Cycle (ORC) system fueled by
Concentrated Solar Power (CSP). The initial selection of the starting point of the cycle is described, considering the operational conditions of the ORC (such as the properties of the ambient temperature and solar field) and operational limitations. The study outlines the construction of a radial turbine generating 3 kW of power and conducts numerical simulations of fluid flow within the turbine components such as the nozzle and wheel. The course includes system engineering, focusing on the computation and selection of critical components including pumps, exchangers, and sensors. The findings of the laboratory tests are presented in the second part. The
experiment utilized a thermal oil boiler for heating. The results show an isentropic efficiency of around 42% and a cycle efficiency of 6% under the initial test conditions, indicating promising performance over a wide range of pressure drops.