bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Patterns of daily oral HIV PrEP adherence among people who inject drugs in Ukraine: an analysis of biomarkers
Authors: Morozova Olga , Kornilova Marina , Makarenko Olena , Antoniak Svitlana , Liulchuk Mariia , Varetska Olga , Dumchev Kostyantyn
Published: July 2024

Introduction

Daily oral HIV pre‐exposure prophylaxis (PrEP) with tenofovir/emtricitabine (TDF/FTC) is recommended for people who inject drugs (PWID) but coverage is low. The real‐life effectiveness of PrEP among PWID is unknown as previous studies were conducted in controlled settings and mainly relied on self‐report. Analysis of PrEP metabolites—tenofovir diphosphate (TFVdp) and emtricitabine triphosphate (FTCtp)—offers an objective measure of adherence.

Methods

To analyse longitudinal patterns of PrEP adherence among PWID in Ukraine, we used data from a community‐based implementation trial conducted in Kyiv between July 2020 and March 2021 to test the efficacy of SMS reminders to improve adherence. Among 199 enrolled participants, 156 (78.4%) were retained through 6 months. Based on TFVdp/FTCtp levels assessed at 3 and 6 months, we identified groups with various adherence patterns (adherent at ≥2 doses/week, improved, worsened, non‐adherent). Correlates of adherence were analysed using multinomial logistic regression.

Results

Most participants (53.8%, n = 84/156) had no detectable metabolites at both assessments; 7.1% (n = 11/156) were consistently taking ≥2 doses/week; 1.3% (n = 2/156) were consistently taking ≥4 doses/week; 13.5% (n = 21/156) exhibited improved and 21.8% (n = 34/156) had worsened adherence at 6 compared to 3 months. “White coat compliance” (increased dosing prior to assessment) was common. Consistent adherence was associated with SMS reminders, younger age, employment, lower income, longer injection drug use duration, recent high‐risk injecting (receptive syringe sharing, using pre‐filled syringe, back‐ or front‐loading, container sharing), absence of overdose in the past 6 months, perceived HIV risk through sexual intercourse and higher PrEP self‐efficacy. Alcohol consumption was associated with inconsistent PrEP use. Groups with improved and worsened adherence did not differ.

Conclusions

Daily oral PrEP may not achieve the desired effectiveness among PWID as a standalone intervention, calling for testing of alternative PrEP formulations and innovative integrated risk reduction strategies, especially in the context of HIV epidemics associated with injection drug use in eastern Europe and central Asia and the public health crisis in Ukraine caused by the war with Russia. SMS reminders may be effective among PWID who prioritize PrEP. Our findings offer practical guidance in identifying PWID who are likely to benefit from PrEP and those who need additional support.
Huppke–Brendel syndrome: Novel cases and a therapeutic trial with ketogenic diet and N‐acetylcysteine
Authors: Šikić Katarina , Peters Tessa M. A. , Engelke Udo , Petković Ramadža Danijela , Žigman Tamara , Fumić Ksenija , Davidović Maša , Huljev Frković Sanda , Körmendy Tibor , Martinelli Diego , Novelli Antonio , Lepri Francesca Romana , Wevers Ron A. , Barić Ivo
Published: July 2024

Huppke–Brendel syndrome (HBS) is an autosomal recessive disorder caused by SLC33A1 mutations, a gene coding for the acetyl‐CoA transporter‐1 (AT‐1). So far it has been described in nine pediatric and one adult patient. Therapeutic trials with copper histidinate failed to achieve any clinical improvement. Here, we describe the clinical characteristics of two novel patients, one of them diagnosed by gene analysis and his sib postmortally based on clinical characteristics. We demonstrate a therapeutic trial with acetylation therapy, consisting of N‐acetylcysteine and ketogenic diet, in one of them. We provide biochemical data on N‐acetylated amino acids in cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) and plasma before and after starting this treatment regimen. Our results indicate that ketogenic diet and N‐acetylcysteine do not seem to normalize the concentrations of N‐acetylated amino acids in CSF or plasma. The overall metabolic pattern shows a trend toward lowered levels of N‐acetylated amino acids in CSF and to a lesser extent in plasma. Although there are some assumptions, the function of AT‐1 is still not clear and further studies are needed to better understand mechanisms underlying this complex disorder.
Dielectric relaxation parameters combing raw milk compositions to improve the prediction performance of milk somatic cell count
Authors: Yang Ke , Li Yue , Liu Wei , Zhang Jiahui , Guo Wenchuan , Zhu Xinhua
Published: July 2024

BACKGROUND

Milk somatic cell count (SCC) is an international standard for identifying mastitis in dairy cows and measuring raw milk quality. Milk SCC can be predicted based on dielectric relaxation parameters (DRPs). We noted a high correlation between DRPs and the milk composition content (MCC), and so we hypothesized that combining DRPs with MCC could improve the prediction accuracy of milk SCC. The present study aimed to analyze the relationship between milk SCC, DRPs and MCC, as well as to investigate the potential of combining DRPs with MCC to improve the prediction accuracy of milk SCC.

RESULTS

The dielectric spectra (20–4500 MHz) of 276 milk samples were measured, and their DRPs (εl, εh, Δε, τ and σ) were solved by the modified Debye equation. The SCC prediction models were developed using dielectric full spectra, DRPs and DRPs combined with MCC. The results showed the correlations between DRPs (εl, εh, Δε and σ) and MCC (fat, protein, lactose and total solids) were high, and SCC exhibited a non‐linear relationship with DRPs and MCC. The 5DRPs + MCC‐generalized regression neural network model had the best prediction, with a standard error of prediction for prediction of 0.143 log SCC mL−1 and residual of the prediction bias of 2.870, which was superior to the models based on full spectra, DRPs and near‐infrared or visible/near‐infrared.

CONCLUSION

The present study has improved the prediction accuracy of milk SCC based on the DRPs combing MCC and provides a new method for dairy farming and milk quality assessment. © 2024 Society of Chemical Industry.
Early detection of gray blight in tea leaves and rapid screening of resistance varieties by hyperspectral imaging technology
Authors: Mao Yilin , Li He , Xu Yang , Wang Shuangshuang , Yin Xinyue , Fan Kai , Ding Zhaotang , Wang Yu
Published: July 2024

BACKGROUND

Gray blight (GB) is a significant disease of tea leaves, posing a severe threat to both the yield and quality. In this study, the process of leaf infection by a pathogenic isolate of the GB disease (DDZ‐6) was simulated. Hyperspectral images of normal leaves, infected leaves without symptoms, and infected leaves with mild and moderate symptoms were collected. Combining convolution neural network (CNN), long short‐term memory (LSTM), and support vector machine (SVM) algorithms, the early detection model of GB disease, and the rapid screening model of resistant varieties were established. The generality of this method was verified by collecting datasets under field conditions.

RESULTS

The visible red‐light band demonstrated a pronounced responsiveness to GB disease, with three sensitive bands identified through rigorous screening processes utilizing uninformative variable elimination (UVE), competitive adaptive reweighted sampling (CARS), and the successive projections algorithm (SPA). The 693, 727, and 766 nm bands emerged as highly sensitive indicators of GB. Under ideal conditions, the CARS‐LSTM model excelled in early detection of GB, achieving an accuracy of 92.6%. However, under field conditions, the combination of 693 and 727 nm bands integrated with a CNN provided the most effective early detection model, attaining an accuracy of 87.8%. For screening tea varieties resistant to GB, the SPA‐LSTM model excelled, achieving an accuracy of 82.9%.

CONCLUSION

This study provides a core algorithm for a GB disease instrument with detection capabilities, which is of great importance for the early prevention of GB disease in tea plantations. © 2024 Society of Chemical Industry.
A gut microbial metabolite cocktail fights against obesity through modulating the gut microbiota and hepatic leptin signaling
Authors: Dong Yanxi , Dong Jiali , Xiao Huiwen , Li Yuan , Wang Bin , Zhang Shuqin , Cui Ming
Published: July 2024

BACKGROUND

Excessive body weight and obesity elevate the risk of chronic non‐communicable diseases. The judicious application of the gut microbiome, encompassing both microorganisms and their derived compounds, holds considerable promise in the treatment of obesity.

RESULTS

In this study, we showed that a cocktail of gut microbiota‐derived metabolites, comprising indole 3‐propionic acid (IPA), sodium butyrate (SB) and valeric acid (VA), alleviated various symptoms of obesity in both male and female mice subjected to a high‐fat diet (HFD). The 16S ribosomal RNA (rRNA) sequencing revealed that administering the cocktail via oral gavage retained the gut microbiota composition in obese mice. Fecal microbiota transplantation using cocktail‐treated mice as donors mitigated the obesity phenotype of HFD‐fed mice. Transcriptomic sequencing analysis showed that the cocktail preserved the gene expression profile of hepatic tissues in obese mice, especially up‐regulated the expression level of leptin receptor. Gene delivery via in vivo fluid dynamics further validated that the anti‐obesity efficacy of the cocktail was dependent on leptin signaling at least partly. The cocktail also inhibited the expression of appetite stimulators in hypothalamus. Together, the metabolite cocktail combated adiposity by retaining the gut microbiota configuration and activating the hepatic leptin signaling pathway.

CONCLUSIONS

Our findings provide a sophisticated regulatory network between the gut microbiome and host, and highlight a cocktail of gut microbiota‐derived metabolites, including IPA, SB, and VA, might be a prospective intervention for anti‐obesity in a preclinical setting. © 2024 Society of Chemical Industry.
Can consumers avoid mislabelling? Genetic species identification provides recommendations for shrimp/prawn products
Authors: Gil Félix , Beroiz Beatriz , Ballesteros Isabel , Horreo Jose Luis
Published: July 2024

BACKGROUND

Crustaceans of the superfamily Penaeoidea (e.g., shrimps and prawns) are among the most commercially available aquatic products worldwide. However, there are few studies regarding not only the presence but also the characteristics of mislabelling in these food products. Such information would be helpful for consumers in order to avoid the typical problems associated with mislabelling (e.g., health and economic issues). For this reason, this work considers Penaeoidea mislabelling by comparing different products (frozen, fresh, boiled), and sources (hypermarkets, supermarkets and fishmongers) from Spain (Europe).

RESULTS

A total of 94 samples from 55 different products were collected, representing 19 different species from 13 genera. Mitochondrial DNA (COI gene) was amplified, revealing mislabelling in almost 30% of supermarket products and almost exclusively found in frozen samples (95% of the total) regardless of its price. In addition, products from the Pacific Ocean seem to be particularly susceptible to mislabelling.

CONCLUSIONS

All in all, recommendations for the consumer in order to avoid mislabelling of prawns include purchasing them fresh from fishmongers; aquaculture products must not be avoided. This study represents, to our knowledge, the first attempt to provide recommendations to consumers based on DNA analyses in order to avoid mislabelling in food products. Further research is therefore required to provide such recommendations in different food products, particularly those that are processed, packaged and/or frozen. © 2024 The Author(s). Journal of the Science of Food and Agriculture published by John Wiley & Sons Ltd on behalf of Society of Chemical Industry.
Machinability study of stainless steel AISI 304 under the influence of copper oxide nanoparticles dispersed emulsifier cutting fluid
Authors: Ravi S. , Tamilselvam P.
Published: July 2024

Quality machining on stainless steel AISI 304 is achieved by reducing the interface temperature generated due to high hardness and compressive frictional force. Temperature rise during the turning operation was observed to cause a weak tool nose, and machining surface. Enhanced lubricant properties can alleviate these issues and help reduce tool nose wear while increasing machined surface quality. Nano‐lubricants have been prepared to meet the functional requirements for machining. Emulsifier oil‐based nanofluids perform exceptionally well in heat transfer during machining. The present investigation focuses on copper oxide nanoparticles addition in “Society of Automotive Engineers 30” emulsifier oil at two different weight percentage: 1.5 wt.‐% and 2.25 wt.‐%, aiming to improve heat transfer and machined surface quality. In this experimental study, a computer numerical control machine tool, DCMT120404 insert, tool dynamometer, and infrared pyrometer are utilized for the machining operation. It was observed that 2.25 wt.‐% copper oxide mixed emulsifier‐nano cutting fluid exhibited minimum cutting force and work‐tool interface temperature while enhancing the surface quality.
Effect of tempering temperature on microstructure and properties of low silicon hypereutectic high chromium cast iron
Authors: Gu J. , Liu S. , Si J. , Zhang Z. , Wang X.
Published: July 2024

High‐chromium cast iron is a good wear‐resistant material. Its heat treatment regime has an important influence on the evolution of its microstructure and properties. This study investigates the microstructural attributes and properties of Fe–4.0 C–35.0Cr–0.5Si (wt.%) low‐silicon hypereutectic high‐chromium cast iron subsequent to quenching at 1050 °C, followed by tempering at diverse temperatures. The microstructure was examined using optical microscopy, scanning electron microscopy, and X‐ray diffractometry across varied tempering conditions. Furthermore, microhardness and wear resistance were conducted via a microhardness tester and a wear testing machine. The results show that the quenching heat treatment promotes the transformation of the matrix from austenite to martensite, while also promoting the precipitation of secondary carbides of M23C6‐type. The subsequent tempering heat treatment engenders transformations involving retained austenite to martensite, amplifies the precipitation and enlargement of secondary carbides, and induces martensite decomposition. As the tempering temperature increases, primary and eutectic carbides exhibit minimal changes, while the secondary carbide morphology evolves from granular to reticular. The matrix composition predominantly comprises martensite, interspersed with a minor fraction of austenite. It is worth noting that the alloy has the highest hardness and wear resistance after quenching at 1050 °C and then tempering at 400 °C.
Prediction of coefficient of friction of solid powder lubricants under high pressure conditions using machine learning algorithms
Authors: Jose J. , Suryawanshi A. , Behera N.
Published: July 2024

Conventional liquid lubricants prove inadequate for effective lubrication in conditions characterized by high temperatures and high vacuum environments. In such extreme scenarios, powder lubricants emerge as a more viable solution. The present study is to conduct a series of experiments using a reciprocating wear test setup and evaluate the capability of four different machine learning models in analysing the tribological attributes of metals when lubricated with three distinct powder types: zirconium dioxide, copper oxide, and molybdenum disulfide, specifically under conditions of elevated contact pressures and dry environments. The experiments were systematically carried out encompassing a range of load and temperature combinations. Four different machine learning models (MLP, KNN, extreme gradient boosting and light gradient‐boosting machine) were used for predicting the coefficient of friction of metals lubricated with different powders. Extreme gradient boosting machine learning model gives better result than the other models with mean absolute error, root mean squared error, R2value and average absolute deviation percentage of 0.0215, 0.0278, 0.9962 and respectively.
Gugwilx'ya'ansk and goats: Indigenous perspectives on governance, stewardship and relationality in mountain goat (mati) hunting in Gitga'at territory
Authors: Greening (La’goot) Spencer
Published: July 2024

Indigenous peoples' deep time relationships with ecosystems hold valuable lessons on how humans can relate to, and be stewards in, the natural world. At the crux of these lessons is the multifaceted way Indigenous peoples participate within ecosystems.

This paper describes this multifaceted connection between people and place by analysing a legal and pedagogical philosophy called gugwilx'ya'ansk amongst the Ts'msyen (Tsimshian) people of the northwest coast of North America.

The author, an Indigenous anthropologist from the Gitk’a’ata (Gitga'at) tribe of the Tsimshian, narrates how gugwilx’ya’ansk weaves education, governance, identity, spirituality, and ritual into land‐based practices for the purpose of deep‐time stewardship. Through autoethnographic narrative and storytelling, he focuses on his own journey of being groomed into becoming a mountain goat hunter within the hereditary governance system of his community, and how this process revealed a methodology to achieve relationality and reciprocity on the landscape while harvesting.

This paper concludes by reflecting on why this Indigenous methodology has been successful for the author, and what lessons it has to offer greater society.

Read the free Plain Language Summary for this article on the Journal blog.
Multiple symmetric task control for networked robot systems over switching network topology
Authors: Wang Zhaoyan , Li Hengyu , Liu Jun , Wang Yueying , Xie Shaorong , Luo Jun
Published: July 2024

This article addresses the multiple symmetric task control issue of networked robot systems modeled by the Euler–Lagrange equation under a switching communication network topology. A distributed coordinated control protocol is presented with the aid of multiple virtual leaders. Based on the special structure of the network topology, some geometric convergence criteria under which the network can realize multiple symmetric consensus is given. Finally, two simulations conducted on seven two‐link revolute arms and eleven mass agents are proposed to illustrate our design, respectively.
An improved switched prescribed finite time attitude control for quadrotors
Authors: Liu Zhongtao , He Weikai , Liu Cungen , Li Chengdong , Zhao Yajing
Published: July 2024

The paper is devoted to the prescribed finite time attitude control for quadrotors. A novel prescribed finite time function is introduced, which is independent of initial conditions and design parameters. And a switched prescribed finite time controller is firstly designed, such that the quadrotor can not only converge to the desired attitude in a prescribed time, but also guarantee the stability of the quadrotor after the settling time. Simultaneously, it effectively avoids chattering issues at the controller's switching points. Finally, the simulation comparisons are carried out between the proposed control strategy and infinite time, finite time, traditional prescribed finite time control schemes to demonstrate the superiority of the developed controller.
Study on the regularities of flow‐sediment transport and sedimentation in the lower Yellow River
Authors: Zheng Zhao , Guo Qingchao , Deng Anjun , Wang Dangwei
Published: July 2024

The training effectiveness of the lower Yellow River (LYR) depends on the understanding of the regularity of flow‐sediment transport and riverbed sedimentation. The measured data of daily flow discharge and sediment transport rate at the five hydrological stations (Xiaolangdi [Xld], Huayuankou [Hyk], Gaocun [Gc], Aishan [As], and Lijin [Lj]) in the LYR during the period from 1960 to 2017 are used to investigate the regularity of flow‐sediment transport and sedimentation in the LYR. The Xld station is used as the inlet control station, and the LYR is divided into four segments using four other stations, and the whole year is divided into three periods, namely, the dry season, the flood period, and the nonflood period of the wet season. On this basis, the relationships between the sediment transport rates at the four stations (Hyk, Gc, As, and Lj) and the rates at their respective closest upstream stations are analyzed in each of the three periods. According to the incoming sediment coefficient of the Xld station, the flow and sediment processes in the three periods are classified, and the refined equations for the relationship between the sediment transport rates at the downstream station and its upstream station are established. The results show that the calculated amount and process of erosion and deposition in each period and each segment of the LYR using the equations are in good agreement with the measured values. The relationship equations established in this study can conveniently predict the amount of erosion and deposition in different periods and different segments of the LYR in the future, which is of great significance to the rapid decision of the impact of the construction and operation of hydraulic projects in the upper and middle reaches of the Yellow River on the sedimentation in the LYR.
Toward sustainable energy transition: Unveiling the synergies of democracy, energy justice, and structural adjustment on emissions in West Africa
Authors: Opoku‐Mensah Evans , Chen Wei , Tuffour Priscilla , Agozie Divine Quase , Gyamfi Bright Akwasi , Mahmoud Ajara
Published: July 2024

The transition to sustainable energy is crucial for climate change mitigation, yet achieving net‐zero emissions remains challenging. While structural adjustments away from carbon‐intensive industries can reduce emissions, such transformations must be underpinned by democratic governance and equitable clean energy access (energy justice). Disappointedly, the interplay among structural change, democracy, and energy justice in mitigating emissions has received insufficient attention. This study examines this nexus among 15 West African countries using the Driscoll–Kraay standard estimator. Our findings indicate that democracy, structural adjustment, and energy justice significantly reduce carbon emissions, while globalization, urbanization, and international trade increase it. We recommend that governments in these nations should promote economic diversification into low‐carbon industries, ensure energy justice through electrification and clean cooking initiatives, enhance transparency and public participation in environmental decision‐making, and facilitate multi‐stakeholder dialogs on sustainable practices.
Environmental degradation in South Asia: Implications for child health and the role of institutional quality and globalization
Authors: Wang Feng , Gillani Seemab , Balsalobre‐Lorente Daniel , Shafiq Muhammad Nouman , Khan Khush Dil
Published: July 2024

In order to address the pressing issue of child death, policymakers have increasingly recognized the need to prioritize child health in their policy decisions. The growing literature supports the recognition of various macroeconomic factors as significant contributors to child health. However, one element largely overlooked in recent research is environmental degradation, which poses a significant threat to child health, particularly in developing nations. Consequently, the current analysis aims to shed light on the impact of environmental degradation on child health and how this relationship is influenced by institutional quality (IQ) and globalization (GLB). The feasible generalized least squares (FGLS) and panel‐corrected standard error (PCSE) were used to establish the empirical relationship by using 27 years of data (1995–2021) from the South Asian economies. Empirical results demonstrate that environmental degradation negatively influences child health, that is, increasing mortality rates, indicating that CO2 is the main obstacle to meeting the SDG‐3.2 target of 25 infant mortality rate per 1000 in South Asia by 2030. While IQ and GLB positively impact child health. Furthermore, the relationship between CO2 emissions and child health demonstrated how IQ and GLB have moderating effects. Higher CO2 emissions eventually result in higher mortality rates, although these emissions can be reduced by promoting GLB, whereas IQ cannot moderate the negative influence of CO2 emissions on child health. Study results show that health‐relevant reforms should align with strong IQ, GLB, and environmental protection policies. This study builds on earlier research by investigating IQ and GLB's moderating role in influencing child health.
The Impact of Oxygen Content in O‐Doped MoS2 on the Kinetics of Polysulfide Conversion in Li–S Batteries
Authors: Ren Xuan , Wu Haiwei , Guo Yanbo , Wei Hairu , Wu Haoteng , Wang Huan , Lin Zhihua , Xiong Chuanyin , Liu Hanbin , Zhang Lin , Li Zhijian
Published: July 2024

Polysulfide shuttle and sluggish sulfur redox kinetics remain key challenges in lithium–sulfur batteries. Previous researches have shown that introducing oxygen into transition metal sulfides helps to capture polysulfides and enhance their conversion kinetics. Based on this, further investigations are conducted to explore the impact of oxygen doping levels on the physical‐chemical properties and electrocatalytic performance of MoS2. The findings reveal that MoS2 doped with high‐content oxygen exhibits enhanced conductivity and polysulfides conversion kinetics compared to MoS2 with low‐content oxygen doping, which can be attributed to the alteration of crystal structure from 2H‐phase to the 1T‐phase, the introduction of increased Li–O interactions, and the effect of defects resulting from high‐oxygen doping. Consequently, the lithium–sulfur batteries using high‐oxygen doped MoS2 as a catalyst deliver a high discharge capacity of 1015 mAh g−1 at 0.25C and maintain 78.5% capacity after 300 more cycles. Specifically, lithium–sulfur batteries employing paper‐based electrodedemonstrate an areal capacity of 3.91 mAh cm−2 at 0.15C, even with sulfur loading of 4.1 mg cm−2 and electrolyte of 6.7 µL mg−1. These results indicate that oxygen doping levels can modify the properties of MoS2, and high‐oxygen doped MoS2 shows promise as an efficient catalyst for lithium–sulfur batteries.
Photo‐Excited High‐Spin State Ni (III) Species in Mo‐Doped Ni3S2 for Efficient Urea Oxidation Reaction
Authors: Wang Peichen , Zheng Wei , Qu Yafei , Duan Naiyuan , Yang Yang , Wang Dongdong , Wang Hui , Chen Qianwang
Published: July 2024

Designing robust catalysts for increasing the sluggish kinetics of the urea oxidation reaction (UOR) is challenging. Herein, the regulation of spin states for metal active sites by photoexcitation to facilitate the adsorption of urea and intermediates is demonstrated. Mo‐doped nickel sulfide nanoribbon arrays (Mo‐Ni3S2@NMF) with excellent light‐trapping capacity are successfully prepared. Under AM 1.5G illumination, the activity of the Mo‐Ni3S2@NMF exhibits a 50% improvement in the UOR current. Compared with those under dark conditions, Mo‐Ni3S2@NMF achieve 10 mA cm−2 at 1.315 VRHE for UOR and 1.32 Vcell for urea electrolysis, which are decreases of 15 and 80 mV, respectively. The electron spin resonance, in situ Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy analysis and density functional theory calculations reveal that illumination led to the formation of Ni3+ active sites in a high‐spin state, which strengthens the d‐p orbital hybridization of Ni‐N, hence facilitating the adsorption of urea. C─N cleavage of the *CONN intermediate is further inhibited, which promotes the oxidation of urea molecules via the active N2 pathway, thereby accelerating the UOR rate.
Neutrophil‐Mimicking Nanozyme with Cascade Catalytic Releasing Nitric Oxide and Signet Oxygen Property for Synergistic Bimodal Therapy of Methicillin‐Resistant Staphylococcus Aureus Infections
Authors: Li Hui , Luo Keyan , Liu Wenkang , Yu Siming , Xue Wei
Published: July 2024

Recently, chloroperoxidase (CPO)‐mediated enzyme dynamic therapy (EDT) by mimicking the antipathogen function of neutrophils via generating highly active signet oxygen (1O2) has attracted great interest in biomedical applications. However, the therapeutic efficiency of EDT is largely restricted by the low CPO delivery efficiency and insufficient hydrogen peroxide (H2O2) supply. In the present work, a neutrophil‐mimicking nanozyme of MGBC with high CPO delivery efficiency, H2O2 self‐supply, and enzyme‐cascade catalytic properties is designed for high‐efficient treatment of methicillin‐resistant Staphylococcus aureus (MRSA) infections. In the infection microenvironment, MGBC can effectively catalyze glucose to self‐supply substantial H2O2, which enables long‐lasting 1O2 generation via the CPO‐mediated catalytic reaction. At the meantime, MGBC can also catalyze H2O2 to sustainably release NO for gas therapy (GT), which synergistically strengthens the therapeutic effect of EDT. As a result, MGBC displayed effective MRSA‐killing and MSRA biofilms‐eradicating properties, and high efficiency in treating both MRSA infected full‐thickness excision wounds and subcutaneous MRSA infection by exerting the synergistic bimodal EDT/GT therapeutic effects. In‐depth mechanism study revealed that the synergistic EDT/GT antibacterial effects of MGBC can attenuate the drug resistance and toxicity of MRSA by significantly downregulating quorum sensing, multidrug efflux, virulence, and biofilm formation‐related genes.
Designing Heterocyclic Covalent Organic Frameworks with Tunable Electronic Structures for Efficient Electrosynthesis of Hydrogen Peroxide
Authors: Yang Zhongjie , Zuo Lulu , Luo Bifu , Yang Caoyu , Wang Shi‐Qiang , Chew Litian , Zhu Jun , Zhang Xiaofei
Published: July 2024

The electrocatalytic production of hydrogen peroxide (H2O2) through the two‐electron oxygen reduction reaction (2e− ORR) has garnered significant research attention in recent years due to its numerous appealing advantages, such as being eco‐friendly and exhibiting high energy conversion efficiency. Metal‐free carbon materials with specific catalytic sites have been recognized as potential electrocatalysts for 2e− ORR; however, the design of highly efficient catalysts with well‐defined structures and long‐term stability for large‐scale H2O2 production remains unsatisfactory. In this study, three covalent organic frameworks (COFs) – imine‐linked LZU‐1, oxazole‐linked LZU‐190, and thiazole‐linked LZU‐190(S), are successfully synthesized to explore their catalytic activity in electrocatalytic H2O2 production. Among these, the carbon sites LZU‐190(S) are predominantly activated by the introduced adjacent heteroatoms via electronic effects, resulting in much higher H2O2 selectivity compared to the oxazole and imine linkages. This work provides new insights into developing COFs‐based electrocatalysts for efficient H2O2 generation.
Emerging Advances around Nanofluidic Transport and Mass Separation under Confinement in Atomically Thin Nanoporous Graphene
Authors: Guo Liping , Wu Ningran , Zhang Shengping , Zeng Haiou , Yang Jing , Han Xiao , Duan Hongwei , Liu Yuancheng , Wang Luda
Published: July 2024

Membrane separation stands as an environmentally friendly, high permeance and selectivity, low energy demand process that deserves scientific investigation and industrialization. To address intensive demand, seeking appropriate membrane materials to surpass trade‐off between permeability and selectivity and improve stability is on the schedule. 2D materials offer transformational opportunities and a revolutionary platform for researching membrane separation process. Especially, the atomically thin graphene with controllable porosity and structure, as well as unique properties, is widely considered as a candidate for membrane materials aiming to provide extreme stability, exponentially large selectivity combined with high permeability. Currently, it has shown promising opportunities to develop separation membranes to tackle bottlenecks of traditional membranes, and it has been of great interest for tremendously versatile applications such as separation, energy harvesting, and sensing. In this review, starting from transport mechanisms of separation, the material selection bank is narrowed down to nanoporous graphene. The study presents an enlightening overview of very recent developments in the preparation of atomically thin nanoporous graphene and correlates surface properties of such 2D nanoporous materials to their performance in critical separation applications. Finally, challenges related to modulation and manufacturing as well as potential avenues for performance improvements are also pointed out.
A Stability‐Indicating RP‐HPLC Method for the Simultaneous Analysis of a Novel Synthetic Decapeptide and Six Related Substances
Authors: Pawar Ramesh , Tivari Sunil , Panchani Divya , Makasana Jayanti
Published: July 2024

Currently, the therapeutic potential of complex biomolecules such as peptides has significantly enhanced the demand for analytical method development and validation for their quality control. Peptides are more complex to analyze than small molecules because of their larger size and unique physical–chemical properties, which create different challenges for analytical method development. Reversed‐phase high‐performance liquid chromatography (RP‐HPLC) with ultraviolet or mass spectrometry is the most widely used technique for analyzing peptides and related substances. In the present study, a decapeptide and its six related possible impurities were synthesized in‐house and identified. A stability‐indicating RP‐HPLC method has been developed for the estimation of the decapeptide and its related substances. The developed method was validated according to the International Conference on Harmonization guidelines for specificity, linearity, limit of detection, quantification, accuracy, precision, and robustness. The stability‐indicating capability of the proposed method was studied under the stress conditions of acid, base, oxidative, thermal, humidity, and photolytic degradation. The decapeptide peak and its degradant were found to be homogeneous and pure in the studied stress trials, with mass balance for all types of degradation exceeding 95%. It confirms the reliability and appropriateness of determining the integrity and purity of the decapeptide and its related substances.
Design of Low‐Loss Electromagnetic Metamaterial with Non‐uniform Linewidth for Magnetic Field Convergence in WPT System
Authors: Xia Nenghong , Ma Huaqi , Yan Shuang , Chen Mengqi , Mao Xike
Published: July 2024

Electromagnetic metamaterial (EM metamaterial) with a double‐layer spiral structure is often used to enhance the transmission efficiency of wireless power transfer (WPT). When EM metamaterial is used as an array, its AC resistance and loss cannot be ignored due to the high‐frequency magnetic field of WPT. This paper decreases EM metamaterial's loss by increasing its quality factor according to the quality factor theory and proposes a novel structure. This structure adopts a non‐uniform linewidth, which can decrease the proximity effect resistance of the EM metamaterial as well as maintain its high inductance. When using the proposed EM metamaterial to form an array, to enhance its effect in modulating the magnetic field, a hybrid EM metamaterial slab (HMS) is constructed by adjusting the series resonance capacitor. The corresponding samples of EM metamaterial with the non‐uniform linewidth structure are developed. The experiment results prove that compared to the uniform linewidth structure, the equivalent resistance and loss of the non‐uniform linewidth structure respectively are decreased by about 5.48% and 19.73%, and the quality factor is enhanced to 556.874. The HMS constructed by the proposed EM metamaterial can enhance the transmission efficiency of the experimental WPT system to 59.8%, which is about 2.1% higher than the HMS constructed by the normal EM metamaterial. © 2024 Institute of Electrical Engineers of Japan and Wiley Periodicals LLC.
Understanding English medium instruction (EMI) policy from the perspectives of STEM content teachers in Kazakhstan
Authors: Manan Syed Abdul , Hajar Anas
Published: July 2024

In this study, the authors address the case of STEM (science, technology, engineering, mathematics) content teachers in an English medium instruction (EMI) environment in Kazakhstan to argue that the professional needs and identities of these teachers are considerably different than the specialist English teachers who teach English language skills and grammar. Therefore, STEM teachers require a different language policy response and diagnosis, and should be understood through a different analytical lens. The study draws on qualitative interviews with one EMI expert and 58 STEM content teachers from six cities or regions of Kazakhstan to present an account of the challenges they confront within mainstream schools. Findings suggest that policies force STEM content teachers to take the role of English teachers, although they are not prepared for that role. These teachers emphasize that their main responsibility is to teach course content, not the English language. As a result, they undergo several dilemmas such as professional [dis]investment and identity crisis, linguistic disadvantages, inferiority complexes, and pedagogical and theoretical limitations. Top‐down policies render local teachers and practitioners voiceless and disconnected from policymaking. The authors propose a non‐traditional, participatory, and non‐hierarchical policy framework, where policy actors at different levels collaboratively engage to assess teachers' diverse needs and take contextually informed actions to address the afore‐stated dilemmas and challenges.
Research on the Clamping Force Performance of Cable Clamps on Long-Span Suspension Bridges Under Solar Radiation
Authors: Cai Yue , Tian Zhongchu , Wang Guibo , Zeng Hao , Liu Cheng
Published: July 2024

The anti-slip performance of cable clamps is one of the important structures to ensure the safety of suspension bridges, and there is currently limited research on the influence of temperature. by using validated meteorological data, an ABAQUS thermal coupling model is established to obtain the steady-state temperature field for a representative period and apply it as a mapped field to analyze the stress results of the cable clamp-main cable structure. The analysis concludes that the derived analytical solution in this study is close to the numerical solution of the finite element method, with a maximum error of 4.2%, meeting the requirements of practical engineering. The increase in temperature of the screw itself reduces the pre-tensioning force, while the increase in structural temperature, when the screw does not experience temperature variation, can actually increase the friction force of the cable clamp to some extent, which is beneficial for improving the friction resistance of the cable clamp. During the installation of cable clamps, it is recommended to perform it at low temperatures, and the surface of the screw can be thermally insulated to maximize the increase in friction force caused by structural temperature rise.
Numerical Simulation-Based Investigation of Fatigue Fracture Mechanisms in Hot In-Place Recycling of Asphalt Pavement
Authors: Zhao Kai , Zhao Yongli , Cao Yi
Published: July 2024

Hot in-place recycling (HIR) technology rejuvenates a certain depth range (typically not exceeding 6 cm) of old asphalt concrete pavement in a single step. Suitable for early-stage surface pavement distresses, it prevents them from progressing into deeper layers. Despite numerous experimental studies on the fatigue and fracture properties of hot recycled materials, limited research exists on numerical simulation of fatigue fracture in such materials. Numerical simulations, offering cost-effectiveness and overcoming size constraints, are the focus of this paper. The study uses a developed fatigue fracture co-simulation program to investigate fatigue fracture behavior in pavement structures under wheel load and temperature effects. It explores the influence of material properties, layer configurations, and initial crack positions of HIR materials on fatigue cracking occurrence. The research provides valuable insights into fatigue fracture patterns in HIR material pavement structures, offering a theoretical foundation for preventing fatigue fracture in such materials.
Study on Insulation and Anti-frost Heave Effect of Polystyrene Board Under the Condition of Mold Bag Concrete
Authors: Guo Fuqiang , Li Gangtie , Chen Shichao , Yang Xia , Huo Yizhen , Bai Jinxiang
Published: July 2024

As a new lining technology, mould bag lining technology has been widely used in recent years. In this paper, the channel frost heave in Hetao irrigation area of Inner Mongolia was studied and a field in-situ test platform was established. The experimental study on the insulation and anti-freeze of polystyrene board under the condition of concrete bag with different thickness was carried out by setting the concrete bag with different thickness and the test block of polystyrene board with different thickness. The research shows that the total accumulated temperature increases by 3.93%~9.22% and the frost heave rate decreases by 18.28%~55.44% by adding 2–5 cm mold bag concrete on the basis of 10 cm mold bag concrete. Laying 4~8 cm polystyrene board, the total accumulated temperature increased by 207.63%~272.25%, and the frost heave rate decreased by 71.43%~96.6%. The absolute slope of the curve fitting the frost heave rate and soil temperature decreased by 44.6%~58.7%. Laying polystyrene plate can inhibit the migration of soil water during freezing-thawing period, reduce the formation of frozen front ice intercalation, and thus reduce the damage of channel frost heave.
Dynamic Response and Reliability Assessment of Reinforced Concrete Members Under Vehicle and Train Collisions: Quantifying Impact Performance and Damage
Authors: AL-Bukhaiti Khalil , Liu Yanhui , Zhao Shichun , Han Daguang
Published: July 2024

This study analyzes the behavior of reinforced concrete (RC) members impacted by vehicles or trains by reviewing existing experimental and numerical work. RC structures are susceptible to such collisions, which can cause structural failure or collapse. The damage response depends on the energy transferred during impact, ranging from cosmetic effects to full structural failure. To properly characterize damage, indices are defined considering concrete and steel strain rates during and after plastic deformation. Concrete spalling is also discussed as an indicator of localized or global failure severity. Experimental results from other studies are presented and compared to theoretical models. The latest provisions for incorporating strain rate sensitivity into material models based on various standards are reviewed. This analysis aims to provide insights for better assessing the reliability of RC members after impacts. Understanding reliability is important for evaluating the safety of damaged structures and mitigating risks. The findings can help practitioners evaluate damaged structures and guide future design to avoid severe outcomes from vehicle and train collisions onto critical infrastructure.
Comprehensive Zeta Potential Analysis of Moringa oleifera-Based Coagulants for Heavy Metal Removal
Authors: Karunakaran Ravikumar
Published: July 2024

This study investigates the efficacy of Moringa oleifera-derived coagulants for removing Cd, Cr, and Pb from water through zeta potential analysis. The surface charge characteristics of Moringa oleifera seed, gum powder, bentonite clay, and clay-polymer composites are explored, emphasizing their role in coagulation-flocculation processes. The isoelectric point (IEP) is identified as a crucial parameter, underlining its significance in the colloidal system. Results highlight promising heavy metal removal by Moringa oleifera seed, gum, and their composite coagulants. The research offers unique insights into the zeta potential characteristics of these coagulants, emphasizing pH’s importance in heavy metal removal. This holistic examination of Moringa oleifera-derived coagulants presents a promising avenue for sustainable water purification practices.
Analysis of Hugging Flow Through the Powerful Technique of Homotopy Asymptotic Method (HAM)
Authors: Shah Qayyum
Published: July 2024

A hugging flow occurs when a fluid is hugged between two undistinguishable plates fronting one another. To this end, the hugging flow between two disks in drive of unstable nature is of immense importance for its technical and scientific uses such as, molding of fluids, the study of fluid machinery such as pumps, fans, blowers, windmills, air compressors, heat exchangers, jet & rocket engines, gas turbines, power plants, pollution control equipments, air-conditioning equipments, heating & ventilation systems, breathing aids, heat-lungs machines, among others makes fluid mechanics of massive importance to Mechanical Engineers. Similarly, expansion and contraction in blood flow, piston motion, brakes, and in cooling towers among others. The aim of this research is to investigate Newtonian fluid between two porous time-varying plates in hugging flow. The impact variable, magnetic field is taken into account. The treatment of obtained system of equations is done by HAM (Homotopy Asymptotic Method). After a comparative analysis between The results obtained through HAM and Numerical methods showed a great agreement of harmony. Variation in the flow fields is presented with the help of figures. The residual errors for fluid flow fields are calculated and shown with the help of table. All the computational work has been done with the help of computer software Mathematica Software.
Integration of Structure and Enclosure System (Large Span Curtain Wall Structure) Monitoring Technology and Linkage Analysis
Authors: Gao Wentao , Liu Jian
Published: July 2024

The integrated monitoring technology and linkage analysis of the structure and enclosure system (large span curtain wall structure) are studied by studying the impact of deformation of the main structure on the stress and deformation performance of the curtain wall structure, as well as considering the impact of the load transmitted by the curtain wall structure to the main structure on the main structure. Conduct research on three scenarios: pure large-span curtain wall structural model, pure main body structural model, and collaborative work between large-span curtain wall structural model and main body structural model. Compare and study indicators such as period, deformation, and interlayer displacement angle. The analysis shows that the load transmitted by the large-span curtain wall structure to the main structure has very little impact on the deformation of the main structure; The deformation of the main structure has little impact on the relative deformation of the large-span curtain wall structure.
Hamiltonian-Jacobi Equation for Torsional Problems of Corrugated Steel Web Box Girders
Authors: Shu Xin , Li Guohua , Dong Jun
Published: July 2024

Due to the use of corrugated steel plate in the web, the torsional performance of the beam body will be weakened to a certain extent. In this paper, the Hamiltonian-Jacobian equation is used to analyze the torsion of the corrugated steel web composite box girder. The Lagrangian function of the system is obtained by taking the warping function and the relative torsion angle of the cross-section as the two generalized coordinates, and the Hamiltonian-Jacobian equation for the torsion problem is established by using the regular transformation. The accuracy of the proposed method is verified by comparing the obtained results with the literature values, and the fact that the torsional performance of the beam is weakened by using corrugated steel plate is verified by using the results of this paper.