bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Sargassum horneri‐based carbon‐doped TiO2 and its aquatic naphthalene photodegradation under sunlight irradiation
Authors: Zeng Ganning , Hong Chunxian , Ma Yuan , Du Mingming , Zhang Yan , Luo Hongwei , Chen Bing , Pan Xiangliang
Published: December 2021

BACKGROUND

During the past two decades, aquatic polycyclic aromatic hydrocarbon (PAH) contamination has gained more and more attention, because of carcinogenicity or mutagenicity, toxicity, persistence and bioaccumulation, and a huge threat posed to entire ecosystems.

RESULTS

Sargassum horneri (SH)‐based carbon was pretreated with ethanol and formaldehyde, and obtained after pre‐carbonization using H2SO4. The SH carbon powder was used to immobilize nano‐TiO2 in aquatic environment by a facile sol–gel method. The resulting C/TiO2 catalyst was applied to photocatalytic aquatic naphthalene degradation under sunlight and showed the best naphthalene degradation performance of 83.77% under simulated sunlight, which could be attributed to the shape and structure contribution originating from SH. C/TiO2 served as both adsorbent and catalyst in the degradation process of naphthalene, and the photodegradation process conformed to a double‐exponential kinetic model, indicating that there are physical and chemical processes involved in the degradation. The mechanism for enhanced photocatalytic activity was verified as a synergistic mechanism resulting from SH‐based carbon and TiO2, and showed industrial potential for removal aquatic PAH pollutants.

CONCLUSIONS

This study verifies that the synergistic effect resulting from SH‐based carbon and TiO2 enhanced the photocatalytic performance. © 2021 Society of Chemical Industry (SCI).
A new catalyst mixture for synthesis of 1,3,5‐trioxane
Authors: Ren Chunxiao , Li Jisheng , Wang Jingjing , Jiang Siqi , Guo Xin , Qi Jianguang , Jiao Congzhe , Wang Yichuan , Hu Yufeng , Liu Zhichang
Published: December 2021

BACKGROUND

A new catalyst mixture, namely trifluoromethanesulfonic acid + N‐methylimidazolium trifluoromethanesulfonate (CF3SO3H + [mim][CF3SO3]), is developed to overcome long‐standing problems of commercial catalysts and catalytic distillation for 1,3,5‐trioxane synthesis. CF3SO3H serves as a catalyst to accelerate the main reaction and [mim][CF3SO3] serves as an extractive distillation agent to promote phase separation. Unlike the conventional design methods whose purpose is to increase catalytic activity and selectivity, this catalyst mixture is designed to significantly enhance phase separation.

RESULTS

Compared to commercial catalysts, the new catalyst mixture significantly increases product concentration in distillate, and significantly decreases byproduct concentration in reaction liquid phase and volatilization loss of reactant in reaction liquid phase. This catalyst mixture also considerably decreases corrosion rate and salting out effect of catalyst.

CONCLUSIONS

Our design approach is of general significance for catalytic distillation. As a real example, it is used to markedly improve the performances of commercial catalysts for 1,3,5‐trioxane synthesis. © 2021 Society of Chemical Industry (SCI).
Diagnostic value of ultrasound and contrast‐enhanced ultrasound in septic acute kidney injury
Authors: Liu Pei Qing , Ding Chang Wei , Zhang Ying Chun , Ma Qi , Liu Li Jun
Published: December 2021

Purpose

This study aimed to explore the clinical value of ultrasonic Doppler examination and contrast‐enhanced ultrasound (US) in the circulation of septic acute kidney injury (AKI).

Methods

Patients with intensive care unit‐related infection were divided into AKI group and control groups. The AKI group was divided into three subgroups according to the serum creatinine value: stage 1, stage 2, and stage 3. Relevant parameters and blood flow of the renal artery were measured, and further contrast‐enhanced US was performed and time‐intensity curve was analyzed.

Results

The renal blood flow (RBF) and time‐averaged velocity decreased significantly in the AKI group compared with the control group (p = .021 and p = .001). The peak value decreased and time to peak (TTP) prolonged in the AKI group (p < .001). With the aggravation of the disease, the RBF decreased slightly among subgroups (p = 0.124). However, the peak value gradually decreased and the TTP prolonged (all p < .05). The multiple linear regression model showed that only PI, RI, and TTP were independently and linearly correlated with the serum creatinine value.

Conclusions

Doppler US and contrast‐enhanced US are of great help in the detection of condition changes and prognosis of patients with sepsis‐induced AKI.
Flooding‐induced inorganic phosphorus transformations in two soils, with and without gypsum amendment
Authors: Attanayake Chammi P. , Dharmakeerthi Randombage Saman , Kumaragamage Darshani , Indraratne Srimathie Priyanthika , Goltz Doug
Published: December 2021

Anaerobic conditions developed during flooding can increase phosphorus (P) losses from soils to waterways. Soil amendment with gypsum (CaSO4·2H2O) can effectively reduce flooding‐induced P release, but its effectiveness is soil dependent, and the reasons are poorly understood. The objectives of this study were to reveal the possible inorganic P transformations during flooding of two soils (acidic‐Neuenberg sandy loam [NBG‐SL] and alkaline‐Fyala clay [FYL‐Cl]), with and without gypsum amendment prior to flooding. Porewater samples collected at 0, 35, and 70 d after flooding (DAF) from soils incubated in vessels were analyzed for dissolved reactive P (DRP); pH; and concentrations of calcium (Ca), magnesium, iron (Fe), manganese, chloride, nitrate, sulfate, and fluoride. Thermodynamic modeling using Visual MINTEQ software and chemical fractionation of soil P were used to infer P transformations. Soil redox potential (Eh) decreased with flooding and favored reductive dissolution of Fe‐associated P increasing porewater DRP concentrations. Greater solubility of Ca‐P under acidic pH maintained a higher DRP concentration in NBG‐SL during early stages of flooding. A subsequent increase in pH with flooding and higher Ca concentration with added gypsum enhanced the stability of Ca‐P (β‐tricalcium phosphate and octacalcium phosphate), reducing the DRP concentration in gypsum‐amended NBG‐SL. Stability of Ca‐P was less affected with flooding and gypsum amendment in FYL‐Cl soil because it had an alkaline pH and inherently higher Ca concentration. The FYL‐Cl, with a more rapid decrease in Eh than NBG‐SL, became severely reduced, releasing more P and Fe by 70 DAF. These conditions favored vivianite formation in FYL‐Cl but not in NBG‐SL.
Prevalence and risk factor for chronic diarrhea in participants of a Japanese medical checkup
Authors: Matsumoto Yuji , Nadatani Yuji , Otani Koji , Higashimori Akira , Ominami Masaki , Fukunaga Shusei , Hosomi Shuhei , Kamata Noriko , Kimura Tatsuo , Fukumoto Shinya , Tanaka Fumio , Taira Koichi , Nagami Yasuaki , Watanabe Toshio , Fujiwara Yasuhiro
Published: December 2021

Background and Aim

Although chronic diarrhea is a major digestive disorder, it has not been well studied. The aims of this study were to investigate the prevalence and risk factors of chronic diarrhea in the Japanese population and to assess the relationship between stool type and frequency and symptoms related to chronic diarrhea.

Method

A total of 13 668 adults who underwent a medical checkup at MedCity21 were enrolled, and 9540 who met the inclusion criteria participated in the study. Participants with chronic diarrhea were defined as those who typically had a Bristol Stool Form Scale of type 6 or 7.

Results

The prevalence of chronic diarrhea was 3.0%. The risk factors for chronic diarrhea were younger age (odds ratio [OR] 0.984, 95% confidence interval [CI] 0.972–0.996), male sex (OR = 2.270, CI = 1.730–2.960), alcohol intake on ≥5 days per week (OR = 2.390, CI = 1.860–3.060), not getting adequate sleep (OR = 0.712, CI = 0.559–0.907), skipping breakfast ≥3 times a week (OR = 1.490, CI = 1.120–1.980), and absence of diabetes mellitus (OR = 0.384, CI = 0.179–0.824). Only 23.5% of the participants in the diarrhea group had ≥3 bowel movements per day. Chronic diarrhea was significantly associated with heartburn, nausea, stomach ache, abdominal bloating and distension, and feeling of stress.

Conclusions

Our study shows that chronic diarrhea is common in Japan with a prevalence of 3.0%; unique risk factors related to gender, age, and irregular lifestyle were identified. An understanding of bowel habit in the healthy population is helpful for the assessment of change in bowel habit associated with gastrointestinal disorders.
A meta‐analytic investigation of the personal and work‐related antecedents of work–family balance
Authors: Vaziri Hoda , Wayne Julie Holliday , Casper Wendy J. , Lapierre Laurent M. , Greenhaus Jeffrey H. , Amirkamali Faezeh , Li Yanhong
Published: December 2021

We conducted a meta‐analysis examining antecedents of work–family balance, including personal characteristics, work demands, and work resources, as well as bidirectional conflict and enrichment. Bivariate results across 130 independent samples (N = 223 055) revealed that personal characteristics linked to more negative affect (i.e., neuroticism) and work demands (i.e., work hours, work overload, and job insecurity) were negatively associated with balance, whereas personal characteristics linked to more positive affect (i.e., extraversion and psychological capital) and work resources (i.e., job autonomy, schedule control, and workplace support) were positively related to balance. Family‐to‐work enrichment (FWE) was more strongly related to balance than was family‐to‐work conflict (FWC), and work‐to‐family conflict (WFC) was more strongly related to balance than was FWC. Finally, integrating tenets of job demands‐resources (JD‐R) theory, we examine two pathways (i.e., strain and motivation) through which antecedents relate to balance using meta‐analytic structural equations modeling (MASEM). In the strain pathway, neuroticism and job overload were negatively related to balance indirectly through higher WFC. In the motivation pathway, extraversion and job autonomy were positively related to balance indirectly through higher WFE. Work social support related positively to balance through higher WFE as well as lower WFC. We discuss theoretical and practical implications.
Anticoagulants decrease the risk for catheter‐related venous thrombosis in patients with chronic intestinal failure: A long‐term cohort study
Authors: Gillis Veerle E. L. M. , van Houdt Thijs , Wouters Yannick , Wanten Geert J. A.
Published: December 2021

Background

Catheter‐related venous thrombosis (CRVT) is a severe complication of home parental nutrition. Although primary prevention of CRVT is crucial, there is no consensus on anticoagulant use to prevent this adversity. The aim was to compare CRVT risk in patients with chronic intestinal failure (CIF) in the presence or absence of anticoagulants, and to identify CRVT risk factors.

Methods

This retrospective cohort study comprised adult patients with CIF with a central venous access device (CVAD) between 2010 and 2020 that were treated at our national CIF referral center. Analyses were performed at a CVAD level.

Results

Overall, 1188 CVADs in 389 patients were included (540.800 CVAD days). Anticoagulants were used in 403 CVADs. In total, 137 CRVTs occurred in 98 patients, resulting in 0.25 CRVTs/1000 CVAD days (95% CI, 0.22–0.29). Anticoagulant use was associated with a decreased CRVT risk (odds ratio [OR] = 0.53; 95% CI, 0.31–0.89; P = 0.02). Left‐sided CVAD insertion (OR = 2.00; 95% CI, 1.36–2.94), a history of venous thrombosis (OR = 1.73; 95% CI, 1.05–2.84), and a shorter period postinsertion (OR = 0.78; 95% CI, 0.65–0.92) were independently associated with an increased CRVT risk.

Conclusion

Anticoagulants decreased the CRVT risk. In addition, we identified left‐sided vein insertion, a history of venous thrombosis, and a shorter period post‐CVAD insertion as CRVT risk factors. Further prospective studies should provide guidance whether prophylactic anticoagulant use, especially in higher‐risk patients with a left‐sided CVAD or a history of venous thrombosis, is justified.
Circulating (Poly)phenol Metabolites: Neuroprotection in a 3D Cell Model of Parkinson's Disease
Authors: Carecho Rafael , Figueira Inês , Terrasso Ana Paula , Godinho‐Pereira Joana , de Oliveira Sequeira Catarina , Pereira Sofia Azeredo , Milenkovic Dragan , Leist Marcel , Brito Catarina , Nunes dos Santos Cláudia
Published: December 2021

Scope

Diets rich in (poly)phenols have been associated with positive effects on neurodegenerative disorders, such as Parkinson's disease (PD). Several low‐molecular weight (poly)phenol metabolites (LMWPM) are found in the plasma after consumption of (poly)phenol‐rich food. It is expected that LMWPM, upon reaching the brain, may have beneficial effects against both oxidative stress and neuroinflammation, and possibly attenuate cell death mechanisms relate to the loss of dopaminergic neurons in PD.

Methods and Results

This study investigates the neuroprotective potential of two blood‐brain barrier permeant LMWPM, catechol‐O‐sulfate (cat‐sulf), and pyrogallol‐O‐sulfate (pyr‐sulf), in a human 3D cell model of PD. Neurospheroids were generated from LUHMES neuronal precursor cells and challenged by 1‐methyl‐4‐phenylpyridinium (MPP+) to induce neuronal stress. LMWPM pretreatments were differently neuroprotective towards MPP+ insult, presenting distinct effects on the neuronal transcriptome. Particularly, cat‐sulf pretreatment appeared to boost counter‐regulatory defense mechanisms (preconditioning). When MPP+ is applied, both LMWPM positively modulated glutathione metabolism and heat‐shock response, as also favorably shifting the balance of pro/anti‐apoptotic proteins.

Conclusions

Our findings point to the potential of LMWPM to trigger molecular mechanisms that help dopaminergic neurons to cope with a subsequent toxic insult. They are promising molecules to be further explored in the context of preventing and attenuating parkinsonian neurodegeneration.
Performance analysis of modulating retro‐reflector free space optical communication system over gamma‐gamma fading channels
Authors: Li Changjin , Liu Haifeng , Lin Wei , Yan Baoluo , Li Si'ao , Liu Bo
Published: December 2021

In this paper, we analyze the modulating retro‐reflector (MRR) channel under different correlated conditions and derived its closed‐form expressions for the probability density function, which is helpful to the design of practical MRR free space optical (FSO) systems. A series of closed‐form expressions for BER performance of several perspective modulation schemes is investigated for MRR FSO communication system over moderate to strong fading channels by use of Gamma‐Gamma (G‐G) distribution. Simulation results show that the effect of correlation between links play a significant role in FSO communication, while varies markedly under different modulation schemes, which provide guidelines for the design and optimization of satellite‐ground laser communication system.
Miniature multi‐pass cell design with high path‐to‐volume ratio based on trough reflector
Authors: Jia Yunjiang , Zhang Lei , Sun Xiaoyuan , Cui Xiaojuan , Yu Benli , Zhou Sheng , Li Jingsong
Published: December 2021

Optical multi‐pass cell (MPC) is widely used in laser absorption spectroscopy, a powerful gas analysis tool. In this letter, a miniature MPC with a high optical path length to volume ratio (OPL/V), consisting of trough mirrors, is proposed. It allows compact beam propagation without paths cross and spots overlap. The cell is optimized twice to reduce aberration and spot diffusion. An OPL/V of 309.03 is obtained for the proposed model. In addition, an OPL of 2.5 m with a volume of 16 cm3 is achieved as the number of mirrors is increased to 30. To our best knowledge, it is the smallest MPC with the same OPL. The miniature MPC shows great potential for its application in portable gas sensor.
Tubulin/microtubules as novel clozapine targets
Authors: Hino Mizuki , Kondo Takeshi , Kunii Yasuto , Matsumoto Junya , Wada Akira , Niwa Shin‐ichi , Setou Mitsutoshi , Yabe Hirooki
Published: December 2021

Aim

Clozapine is currently the only effective drug for treatment‐resistant schizophrenia; nonetheless, its pharmacological mechanism remains unclear, and its administration is limited because of severe adverse effects. By comparing the binding proteins of clozapine and its derivative olanzapine, which is safer but less effective than clozapine, we attempted to clarify the mechanism of action specific to clozapine.

Methods

First, using the polyproline rod conjugates attached with clozapine or olanzapine, clozapine‐binding proteins in extracts from the cerebra of 7‐week‐old ICR mice were isolated and separated by sodium dodecyl sulfate‐polyacrylamide gel electrophoresis (SDS‐PAGE) and analyzed by liquid chromatography‐tandem mass spectrometry (LC‐MS/MS) to identify proteins. Second, the effect of clozapine on tubulin polymerization was determined turbidimetrically. Finally, the cellular effects of clozapine were observed in HeLa cells by immunofluorescence microscopy.

Results

Alpha and β tubulins were the most abundant clozapine‐binding proteins. We also found that clozapine directly binds with α and β tubulin heterodimers to inhibit their polymerization to form microtubules and disturbs the microtubule network, causing mitotic arrest in HeLa cells.

Conclusion

These results suggest that α and β tubulin heterodimers are targeted by the clozapine and the microtubules are involved in the etiology of schizophrenia.
Synthesis and modification of spherical SiO2 nanoparticles with different particle sizes and morphologies and their effects on the properties of thermoplastic polyurethane urea elastomers
Authors: Wang Xiaoyan , Huang He
Published: December 2021

A thermoplastic polyurethane urea (TPUU) elastomer with superior mechanical and thermal properties was recently reported from our group and synthesized by asymmetric aliphatic diisocyanate and diamine. In order to enhance its performance, this TPUU was further modified with spherical SiO2 nanoparticles in this work, and the influence of the size and morphology of spherical SiO2 nanoparticles on mechanical, thermal, and thermomechanical properties of TPUU was investigated. The results showed that spherical SiO2 nanoparticles could significantly improve the mechanical, thermal, and thermomechanical properties of TPUU, which increased, with the decrease of the particle size of SiO2 nanoparticles. Especially, compared with solid spherical SiO2 nanoparticles, TPUU nanocomposites filled with hollow spherical SiO2 (HSSiO2) particles showed abnormal but unique stress–strain behavior, and their elongations at break increased with the decrease of particle size of HSSiO2 nanoparticles.
Electrochemical degradation modes in bifacial silicon photovoltaic modules
Authors: Sulas‐Kern Dana B. , Owen‐Bellini Michael , Ndione Paul , Spinella Laura , Sinha Archana , Uličná Soňa , Johnston Steve , Schelhas Laura T.
Published: December 2021

Motivated by the rapidly rising deployment of bifacial monocrystalline‐silicon photovoltaics (PV), we investigate the durability of various PV module packaging configurations with transparent coverings on both the front and rear sides of the module. We use a series of bifacial passivated emitter and rear cell (p‐PERC) mini‐modules with systematically varying outer cover materials (glass/glass, G/G, or glass/transparent backsheet, G/TB) and encapsulant chemistries (poly [ethylene‐co‐vinyl acetate], EVA; or polyolefin, POE). We study degradation modes over 1,000 hours of combined damp heat (DH) exposure and high system voltages that can cause potential‐induced degradation (PID) under positive, zero, or negative 1,000 V cell‐to‐frame bias. We analyze the degradation modes using a combination of current–voltage measurements, impedance spectroscopy, external quantum efficiency, and spatially resolved luminescence and thermal imaging. Our results highlight various types of degradation including shunting, enhanced recombination, and series resistance increases, and we use spatially resolved characterization to separately identify the localized effects. We show that multiple PID and moisture‐ingress degradation modes severely affect EVA‐containing modules, with previously reported PID processes under negative‐bias DH and a unique observation of rear‐side surface recombination in G/EVA/G modules under positive‐bias DH. We observe significantly less degradation in POE‐containing modules, where the G/POE/G configuration exhibits minimal degradation under all stress conditions that we employ.
Pediatric pulmonology 2020 year in review: Rare and diffuse lung disease
Authors: Vece Timothy J. , Popler Jonathan , Gower William A.
Published: December 2021

Pediatric Pulmonology publishes original research, review articles, and case reports on topics related to a wide range of children's respiratory disorders. Here we review some of the most notable manuscripts published in 2020 in this journal on (1) children's interstitial lung disease (chILD), (2) congenital airway and lung anomalies, and (3) primary ciliary dyskinesia and other non‐cystic fibrosis bronchiectasis. The articles reviewed are discussed in context with published works from other journals.
Proteomic analysis of human articular cartilage unravels the dyscoagulation in osteoarthritis and the potential value of serpinA5 as a biomarker for osteoarthritis
Authors: Zhu Tengjiao , Tan Qizhao , Xin Xing , Li Feng , Zhang Ke , Liu Zhongjun , Tian Yun
Published: December 2021

Purpose

Nowadays, there is no clinically applicable biomarker for osteoarthritis (OA). Therefore, the aim of the study is to discover a potential biomarker for OA.

Experimental Design

We performed a proteomics of eight cartilage samples (four damaged cartilage and four macroscopically intact cartilage) from four OA patients without any comorbidities to search for valuable OA biomarkers. Four rats underwent bilateral ovariectomy to induce the OA (OVX‐OA) model, while another four underwent a sham procedure wherein the ovaries were exteriorized but not removed (SHAM). Selected candidate proteins were further verified in the patients and the OVX‐OA animal model.

Results

A comprehensive cartilage proteome profile of patients with OA was constructed. Additionally, the complement and coagulation cascades were found to be significantly altered, and serpinA5 was chosen as a protein of interest based on biological information analysis. The reduction of serpinA5 in locally damaged cartilage and serum of patients with OA compared to the control group was determined. Furthermore, we found that serpinA5 was decreased in OVX‐OA rats compared to that in SHAM rats.

Conclusions and Clinical Relevance

Our results suggest that there is dyscoagulation in the OA process and that serpinA5 can serve as a potentially valuable OA biomarker.
Partiti‐like viruses from African armyworm increase larval and pupal mortality of a novel host: the Egyptian cotton leafworm
Authors: Xu Pengjun , Rice Annabel , Li Tong , Wang Jie , Yang Xianming , Yuan He , Graham Robert I , Wilson Kenneth
Published: December 2021

BACKGROUND

The general principle of using microbes from one species to manage a different pest species has a clear precedent in the large‐scale release of mosquitoes carrying a Wolbachia bacterium derived from Drosophila flies. New technologies will facilitate the discovery of microbes that can be used in a similar way. Previously, we found three novel partiti‐like viruses in the African armyworm (Spodoptera exempta). To investigate further the utility and consistency of host shift of insect viruses as a potential pest management tool, we tested the interaction between the partiti‐like viruses and another novel host, the Egyptian cotton leafworm (Spodoptera littoralis).

RESULT

We found that all three partiti‐like viruses appeared to be harmful to the novel host S. littoralis, by causing increased larval and pupal mortality. No effect was observed on host fecundity, and partiti‐like virus infection did not impact host susceptibility when challenged with another pathogen, the baculovirus SpliNPV. Transcriptome analysis of partiti‐like virus‐infected and noninfected S. littoralis indicated that the viruses could impact host gene‐expression profiles of S. littoralis, but they impact different pathways to the two other Spodoptera species through effects on pathways related to immunity (Jak–STAT/Toll and Imd) and reproduction (insulin signaling/insect hormones).

CONCLUSION

Taken together with the previous findings in the novel host S. frugiperda, these results indicate a parasitic relationship between the partiti‐like viruses and novel insect hosts, suggesting a possible use and novel pest management strategy through the artificial host shift of novel viruses. © 2021 Society of Chemical Industry.
Machine Learning‐Based Optimization of Chiral Photonic Nanostructures: Evolution‐ and Neural Network‐Based Designs
Authors: Mey Oliver , Rahimi-Iman Arash
Published: December 2021

Chiral photonics opens new pathways to manipulate light–matter interactions and tailor the optical response of metasurfaces and ‐materials by nanostructuring nontrivial patterns. Chirality of matter, such as that of molecules, and light, which in the simplest case is given by the handedness of circular polarization, have attracted much attention for applications in chemistry, nanophotonics and optical information processing. The design of chiral photonic structures using two machine learning methods, the evolutionary algorithm, and neural network approach, for rapid and efficient optimization of optical properties for dielectric metasurfaces, is reported. The design recipes obtained for visible light in the range of transition‐metal dichalcogenide exciton resonances show a frequency‐dependent modification in the reflected light's degree of circular polarization, that is represented by the difference between left‐ and right‐circularly polarized intensity. Our results suggest the facile fabrication and characterization of optical nanopatterned reflectors for chirality‐sensitive light–matter coupling scenarios employing tungsten disulfide as possible active material with features such as valley Hall effect and optical valley coherence.
Efficiencies of best management practices in reducing nitrate pollution of the Sebdou River, a semi‐arid Mediterranean agricultural catchment (North Africa)
Authors: Zettam Amin , Briak Hamza , Kebede Fassil , Ouallali Abdessalam , Hallouz Faiza , Taleb Amina
Published: December 2021

A major problem facing the water sector in Algeria is deteriorating water quality, which is strongly influenced by nutrient inputs to agricultural watersheds. To mitigate the effects of agricultural activities and enhance water quality, this study considered the impact of different best management practices (BMPs) in agriculture. The objective of the research was to evaluate the impacts of various agricultural BMPs on nitrate losses in the Sebdou catchment in north‐west Africa using the Soil and Water Assessment Tool (SWAT) model in order to identify and recommend the most appropriate BMP. The study was carried out in two parts: first, the SWAT model was calibrated and validated to simulate discharge and nitrate losses at the outlet of the catchment, and second, the calibrated model was used to assess the effects of BMPs on nitrate losses. The hydrological modelling fitted well with the observed data for the calibration and validation periods (NSE between 0.63 and 0.65 and R2 between 0.80 and 0.92). Nitrate simulation was also satisfactory (NSE = 0.58 and R2 = 0.58), with the average nitrate exports at the outlet varying between 136 and 149 t N year−1. Agricultural tillage practices were the main N input and plant uptake was the main N output. The simulation results of BMP scenarios (contour farming, strip cropping and terracing) showed a significant decrease in nitrate quantity in soil, nitrate yield in surface run‐off and nitrate exports. The maximum reduction was observed from the use of parallel terraces, which reduced nitrate in soil by 17% (41 kg ha−1) and decreased nitrate flux exportation to below 133 t N year−1 (a reduction of about 11%). This study provided useful information for implementation of the most effective agricultural BMPs in the catchment for stakeholders who are interested in soil and water management.
Quantification of hard X‐ray photoelectron spectroscopy: Calculating relative sensitivity factors for 1.5‐ to 10‐keV photons in any instrument geometry
Authors: Cant David J. H. , Spencer Ben F. , Flavell Wendy R. , Shard Alexander G.
Published: December 2021

A method for the rapid determination of theoretical relative sensitivity factors (RSFs) for hard X‐ray photoelectron spectroscopy (HAXPES) instruments of any type and photon energy has been developed. We develop empirical functions to describe discrete theoretically calculated values for photoemission cross sections and asymmetry parameters across the photon energy range from 1.5 to 10 keV for all elements from lithium to californium. The formulae describing these parameters, in conjunction with similar practical estimates for inelastic mean free paths, allow the calculation of a full set of theoretical sensitivity factors for a given X‐ray photon energy, X‐ray polarisation and instrument geometry. We show that the anticipated errors on these RSFs are less than the typical errors generated by extracting X‐ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS) intensities from the spectra and thus enable adequate quantification for any XPS/HAXPES experiment up to 10 keV. A spreadsheet implementation of this method is provided in the supporting information, along with example RSFs for existing commercial instruments.
Defect Passivation for Kesterite CZTSSe Solar Cells via In Situ Al2O3 Incorporation into the Bulk CZTSSe Absorber
Authors: Lee Taeseon , Hamim Sharif Md , Enkhbayar Enkhjargal , Enkhbat Temujin , Salahuddin Mina Md , Kim JunHo
Published: December 2021

A method for in situ Al2O3 incorporation into a Cu2ZnSn(S,Se)4 (CZTSSe) absorber and its effect on solar cell performance is reported. Al2O3‐incorporated CZTSSe films can be prepared by spraying a precursor solution containing Al metal salt dissolved together with Cu, Zn, and Sn metal salts and thiourea. X‐ray photoemission spectroscopy (XPS) and field‐emission transmission electron microscopy (FESEM) reveal the existence of an Al2O3 phase in the CZTSSe film. X‐ray diffraction (XRD) and Raman spectroscopy indicate that Al2O3 incorporation (Al: 0%–2%) does not have a noticeable effect on the crystallization process through postselenization and does not change the lattice parameters of the selenized CZTSSe. However, optimal Al2O3 incorporation is found to reduce the defect level and defect density, as confirmed by various characterization methods, such as 442 nm Raman spectroscopy, photoluminescence, admittance spectroscopy, and temperature‐dependent current density measurements. In addition, Al2O3 incorporation reduces the Urbach energy and back‐contact barrier height. Al2O3 incorporation is found to induce enhancement of Na and O concentrations in the absorber, which facilitates defect passivation effects. Owing to the observed beneficial effects of Al2O3 incorporation, the device performance is significantly enhanced, achieving a maximum power conversion efficiency of 11.76%.
Protection and detection of physical hazards for the intelligent system under industrial Internet of Things by neural network
Authors: Wang Rongxia , Liu Zhifang , He Fen , Yang Weihuang
Published: December 2021

Aiming at detecting and avoiding many security risks brought by various intelligent equipment and sensors in industrial Internet of Things (IoT) intelligent system, the Kalman back propagation neural network (Kalman‐BPNN) algorithm is designed, based on the neural network and with the help of the unique advantages of Kalman filtering algorithm and back propagation neural network (BPNN) algorithm. Introductions are made on the architecture of IoT and the theory of system security, and descriptions are made on the principle and process of related algorithms in detail. The advantages of traditional algorithms are integrated to design a Kalman‐BPNN algorithm. The simulation experiment analysis is carried out, and the designed detection method is compared with the traditional detection method. The voltage test of the Kalman‐BPNN algorithm based on the neural network is no more than 4.1%, as the experiment shows. The true positive rate of Kalman‐BPNN algorithm is 91.121%, which is very close to the value of 1, indicating that the algorithm has a great probability to predict the normal voltage. The false positive rate is 9.341%, which is very close to 0, indicating that the algorithm has a small probability of false judgment.
Nanoscale Design of Pd‐Based Electrocatalysts for Oxygen Reduction Reaction Enhancement in Alkaline Media
Authors: Zhou Ming , Guo Jiangna , Fang Jiye
Published: December 2021

Palladium (Pd)‐based electrocatalysts have recently emerged as one class of the foremost promising candidates for the oxygen reduction reaction (ORR) in alkaline media due to their excellent ORR activity and durability and lower costs compared with platinum. Insightful design of Pd‐based nano‐architectures with optimized active surface sites and maximal intrinsic performance is central to promoting the ORR applications. To further accelerate the sluggish ORR kinetics at the cathode of fuel cells and substantially decrease the overall cost of the electrocatalysts, various strategies, including controlled sizes and shapes with selected crystallographic facets, crystal‐phase engineering, heteroatom doping, tailored surface strains, and surface engineering by de‐alloying, have been extensively developed in the past decade. In this review, a brief introduction to the fundamental ORR mechanisms of Pd‐based electrocatalysts in alkaline media is presented, followed by a thorough discussion on various strategies for delicately designing high‐performance Pd‐based catalysts with corresponding examples. Thereafter, the perspectives and new insights into the challenges are outlined, and some emerging research directions related to the rational design and controlled synthesis of Pd‐based ORR electrocatalysts are also proposed.
A plea to DNA barcode type specimens: An example fromMicropholis(Sapotaceae)
Authors: Sánchez‐C. Dayana , Richardson James E. , Hart Michelle , Serrano Julieth , Cárdenas Dairon , Gonzalez Mailyn A. , Cortés‐B. Rocio
Published: December 2021

Identification of individuals in the absence of reproductive traits or in juvenile stages can be difficult. Incorrect identification will result in inaccurate biodiversity inventories that are an impediment to effective conservation management. Here, we present data in which we argue that the generation of DNA barcode reference libraries using DNA extracted from type specimens could resolve issues related to correct identification. The genusMicropholis(Sapotaceae) is diverse and ecologically important in Neotropical lowland rain forests. We first assessed the capacity of the molecular markers ITS2,matKandrbcLin differentiating species in the genus. Based on a phylogenetic reconstruction we found that many individuals in our study were incorrectly identified, and we argue that if we had access to a type specimen DNA barcode reference library we would have more rapidly and correctly identified individuals.
Decolorization of textile wastewater by electrooxidation process using different anode materials: Statistical optimization
Authors: Bakaraki Turan Nouha , Sari Erkan Hanife , Ilhan Fatih , Onkal Engin Guleda
Published: December 2021

The presence of reactive dyes in textile wastewater is a serious environmental concern due to their associated mutagenic and carcinogenic effects. The present study aims to analyze the effect of different anodic materials on the decolorization of a real textile wastewater effluent. For this purpose, four different anodic materials—TiO2‐coated platine, TiO2‐coated ruthenium dioxide (RuO2) (viz., RuO2), titanium dioxide (TiO2), and graphite—were connected, respectively, to titanium dioxide (TiO2) used as a cathode electrode. Color and cost optimization studies were performed using the response surface methodology and the Box–Behnken experimental design (BBD). According to ANOVA results, the R2 values for Pt/TiO2, RuO2/TiO2, TiO2/TiO2, and graphite/TiO2 electrode pairs were found to be 97.4%, 93.8%, 92.44%, and 92.2%, respectively, indicating a good compatibility as it is close to one. The results show that color removal efficiencies at the optimal conditions were 86.3%, 90.8%, 91.5%, and 93.6% for Pt/TiO2, graphite/TiO2, TiO2/TiO2, and RuO2/TiO2, respectively. Furthermore, energy consumption cost at the optimum conditions was also evaluated, and the results were as follows: Pt/TiO2 (0.95 €/m3), graphite/TiO2 (0.74 €/m3), TiO2/TiO2 (0.31 €/m3), and RuO2/TiO2 (0.26 €/m3). Consequently, this research paper shows that all of the tested anodic materials give satisfactory color removal efficiencies higher than 86%. When energy consumption and color removal are considered together, the use of TiO2/TiO2 and RuO2/TiO2 pairs would be preferred.

Practitioner Points

Anodic contribution was investigated for decolorization of textile wastewater by electrooxidation process.

Graphite, TiO2‐coated Pt, TiO2‐coated RuO2, and TiO2 were used as anode materials.

Highest color removal with lowest energy consumption was achieved with TiO2‐coated RuO2 anode material (93.6%).
BPS black hole entropy and attractors in very special geometry. Cubic forms, gradient maps and their inversion
Authors: van Geemen Bert , Marrani Alessio , Russo Francesco
Published: December 2021

Abstract

We consider Bekenstein-Hawking entropy and attractors in extremal BPS black holes of $$ \mathcal{N} $$
N
= 2, D = 4 ungauged supergravity obtained as reduction of minimal, matter-coupled D = 5 supergravity. They are generally expressed in terms of solutions to an inhomogeneous system of coupled quadratic equations, named BPS system, depending on the cubic prepotential as well as on the electric-magnetic fluxes in the extremal black hole background. Focussing on homogeneous non-symmetric scalar manifolds (whose classification is known in terms of L(q, P, Ṗ) models), under certain assumptions on the Clifford matrices pertaining to the related cubic prepotential, we formulate and prove an invertibility condition for the gradient map of the corresponding cubic form (to have a birational inverse map which is given by homogeneous polynomials of degree four), and therefore for the solutions to the BPS system to be explicitly determined, in turn providing novel, explicit expressions for the BPS black hole entropy and the related attractors as solution of the BPS attractor equations. After a general treatment, we present a number of explicit examples with Ṗ = 0, such as L(q, P), 1 ⩽ q ⩽ 3 and P ⩾ 1, or L(q, 1), 4 ⩽ q ⩽ 9, and one model with Ṗ = 1, namely L(4, 1, 1). We also briefly comment on Kleinian signatures and split algebras. In particular, we provide, for the first time, the explicit form of the BPS black hole entropy and of the related BPS attractors for the infinite class of L(1, P) P ⩾ 2 non-symmetric models of $$ \mathcal{N} $$
N
= 2, D = 4 supergravity.
Connecting 5d Higgs branches via Fayet-Iliopoulos deformations
Authors: van Beest Marieke , Giacomelli Simone
Published: December 2021

Abstract

We describe how the geometry of the Higgs branch of 5d superconformal field theories is transformed under movement along the extended Coulomb branch. Working directly with the (unitary) magnetic quiver, we demonstrate a correspondence between Fayet-Iliopoulos deformations in 3d and 5d mass deformations. When the Higgs branch has multiple cones, characterised by a collection of magnetic quivers, the mirror map is not globally well-defined, however we are able to utilize the correspondence to establish a local version of mirror symmetry. We give several detailed examples of deformations, including decouplings and weak-coupling limits, in (Dn, Dn) conformal matter theories, TN theory and its parent PN, for which we find new Lagrangian descriptions given by quiver gauge theories with fundamental and anti-symmetric matter.
QFT, EFT and GFT
Authors: Raman Prashanth , Sinha Aninda
Published: December 2021

Abstract

We explore the correspondence between geometric function theory (GFT) and quantum field theory (QFT). The crossing symmetric dispersion relation provides the necessary tool to examine the connection between GFT, QFT, and effective field theories (EFTs), enabling us to connect with the crossing-symmetric EFT-hedron. Several existing mathematical bounds on the Taylor coefficients of Typically Real functions are summarized and shown to be of enormous use in bounding Wilson coefficients in the context of 2-2 scattering. We prove that two-sided bounds on Wilson coefficients are guaranteed to exist quite generally for the fully crossing symmetric situation. Numerical implementation of the GFT constraints (Bieberbach-Rogosinski inequalities) is straightforward and allows a systematic exploration. A comparison of our findings obtained using GFT techniques and other results in the literature is made. We study both the three-channel as well as the two-channel crossing-symmetric cases, the latter having some crucial differences. We also consider bound state poles as well as massless poles in EFTs. Finally, we consider nonlinear constraints arising from the positivity of certain Toeplitz determinants, which occur in the trigonometric moment problem.
More on the weak gravity conjecture via convexity of charged operators
Authors: Antipin Oleg , Bersini Jahmall , Sannino Francesco , Wang Zhi-Wei , Zhang Chen
Published: December 2021

Abstract

The Weak Gravity Conjecture has recently been re-formulated in terms of a particle with non-negative self-binding energy. Because of the dual conformal field theory (CFT) formulation in the anti-de Sitter space, the conformal dimension ∆(Q) of the lowest-dimension operator with charge Q under some global U(1) symmetry must be a convex function of Q. This property has been conjectured to hold for any (unitary) conformal field theory and generalized to larger global symmetry groups. Here we refine and further test the convex charge conjecture via semiclassical computations for fixed charge sectors of different theories in various dimensions. We analyze the convexity properties of the leading and next-to-leading order terms stemming from the semiclassical computation, de facto, extending previous tests beyond the leading perturbative contributions and to arbitrary charges. In particular, the leading contribution is sufficient to test convexity in the semiclassical computations. We also consider intriguing cases in which the models feature a transition from real to complex conformal dimensions either as a function of the charge or number of matter fields. As a relevant example of the first kind, we investigate the O(N) model in 4 + ϵ dimensions. As an example of the second type, we consider the U(N) × U(M) model in 4 − ϵ dimensions. Both models display a rich dynamics where, by changing the number of matter fields and/or charge, one can achieve dramatically different physical regimes. We discover that whenever a complex conformal dimension appears, the real part satisfies the convexity property.
The semiclassical gravitational path integral and random matrices (toward a microscopic picture of a dS2 universe)
Authors: Anninos Dionysios , Mühlmann Beatrix
Published: December 2021

Abstract

We study the genus expansion on compact Riemann surfaces of the gravitational path integral $$ {\mathcal{Z}}_{\mathrm{grav}}^{(m)} $$

Z
grav

m

in two spacetime dimensions with cosmological constant Λ > 0 coupled to one of the non-unitary minimal models ℳ2m − 1, 2. In the semiclassical limit, corresponding to large m, $$ {\mathcal{Z}}_{\mathrm{grav}}^{(m)} $$

Z
grav

m

admits a Euclidean saddle for genus h ≥ 2. Upon fixing the area of the metric, the path integral admits a round two-sphere saddle for h = 0. We show that the OPE coefficients for the minimal weight operators of ℳ2m − 1, 2 grow exponentially in m at large m. Employing the sewing formula, we use these OPE coefficients to obtain the large m limit of the partition function of ℳ2m − 1, 2 for genus h ≥ 2. Combining these results we arrive at a semiclassical expression for $$ {\mathcal{Z}}_{\mathrm{grav}}^{(m)} $$

Z
grav

m

. Conjecturally, $$ {\mathcal{Z}}_{\mathrm{grav}}^{(m)} $$

Z
grav

m

admits a completion in terms of an integral over large random Hermitian matrices, known as a multicritical matrix integral. This matrix integral is built from an even polynomial potential of order 2m. We obtain explicit expressions for the large m genus expansion of multicritical matrix integrals in the double scaling limit. We compute invariant quantities involving contributions at different genera, both from a matrix as well as a gravity perspective, and establish a link between the two pictures. Inspired by the proposal of Gibbons and Hawking relating the de Sitter entropy to a gravitational path integral, our setup paves a possible path toward a microscopic picture of a two-dimensional de Sitter universe.
Multi-issue bankruptcy problems with crossed claims
Authors: Acosta Rick K. , Algaba Encarnación , Sánchez-Soriano Joaquín
Published: December 2021

In this paper, we introduce a novel model of multi-issue bankruptcy problem inspired from a real problem of abatement of emissions of different pollutants in which pollutants can have more than one effect on atmosphere. In our model, therefore, several perfectly divisible goods (estates) have to be allocated among certain set of agents (claimants) that have exactly one claim which is used in all estates simultaneously. In other words, unlike of the multi-issue bankruptcy problems already existent in the literature, this model study situations with multi-dimensional states, one for each issue and where each agent claims the same to the different issues in which participates. In this context, we present an allocation rule that generalizes the well-known constrained equal awards rule from a procedure derived from analyzing this rule for classical bankruptcy problems as the solution to a sucession of linear programming problems. Next, we carry out an study of its main properties, and we characterize it using the well-known property of consistency.
A User Prioritisation Algorithm for Horizontal Handover in Dense WLANs
Authors: Aldhaibani Omar A. , Raschellà Alessandro , Mohi-Ud-Din Ghulam , Mackay Michael
Published: December 2021

This paper proposes an algorithm that enhances horizontal handover (HO) in dense wireless local area networks (WLANs), which is implemented in a software-defined wireless networking (SDWN)-based architecture. The algorithm considers the concept of user prioritisation, classifying the WLAN stations (STAs) into two categories representing high and low priorities respectively, and always attempts to guarantee the best quality of experience (QoE) to the high priority users. The architecture that implements the algorithm leverages the flexibility, programmability, and centralised nature of SDWN to efficiently manage the HO process. Moreover, the paper presents a performance evaluation campaign that demonstrates significant achievements against a state-of-the-art solution in terms of the provided QoE, throughput and delay. Finally, we discuss the importance of considering user prioritisation in a HO algorithm for dense WLAN

s.
New Polymerizable Tetraaza Macrocycle Containing Two Acridine Units for Selective Fluorescence Sensing of Metal Ions
Authors: Golcs Ádám , Kovács Korinna , Vezse Panna , Huszthy Péter , Tóth Tünde
Published: December 2021

A new fluorescent bis(acridino)-macrocycle containing two allyl groups was synthesized and photophysically studied. Studies were carried out on metal ion recognition and selectivity-influencing effects including the determination of the relevant thermodynamic constants as logK and pKa. The proposed sensor molecule is recommended for the development of Zn2+-selective optochemical analyzers based on covalently immobilized ionophores as it has a unique pH-independent metal ion recognition ability, which is not influenced by anions and other potentially occurring metal ions in biological samples.