bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Mitochondria as a target of micro- and nanoplastic toxicity
Authors: Dal Yöntem Fulya , Aydoğan Ahbab Müfide
Published: March 2024

Mitochondria are unique organelles to perform critical functions such as energy production, lipid oxidation, calcium homeostasis, and steroid hormone synthesis in eukaryotic cells. The proper functioning of mitochondria is crucial for cellular survival, homeostasis, and bioenergetics. Mitochondrial structure and function are maintained by the mitochondrial quality control system, which consists of the processes of mitochondrial biogenesis, mitochondrial dynamics (fusion/fission), mitophagy, and mitochondrial unfolded protein response UPRMT. Mitochondrial dysfunction and/or damage is associated with the initiation and progression of several human diseases, including neurodegenerative, cardiovascular, age-related diseases, diabetes, and cancer. Environmental stress and contaminants may exacerbate the sensitivity of mitochondria to damage which causes mitochondrial dysfunction. There is growing evidence about the impact of nanoplastics (NPs) and microplastics (MPs) on mitochondrial health and function. MPs/NPs were reported to trigger oxidative stress and reactive oxygen species production, which eventually change mitochondrial membrane potential. MPs/NPs can cross through the biological barriers in the human body and be internalized by the cells, potentially altering mitochondrial dynamics, bioenergetics, and signaling pathways, thus impacting cellular metabolism and function. This review states the effects of MPs/NPs on mitochondrial homeostasis and function as well as on mitochondrial membrane dynamics, mitophagy, and mitochondrial apoptosis are discussed.
Detection of occult thrombosis in individuals with Fontan circulation by cardiac MRI
Authors: Curtis Samantha F. , Cicioni Mariah , Mullikin Alexandria , Williams Jason , Campbell J. Michael , Barker Piers C. A. , McCrary Andrew W.
Published: March 2024

Objective:

Identifying thrombus formation in Fontan circulation has been highly variable, with reports between 17 and 33%. Initially, thrombus detection was mainly done through echocardiograms. Delayed-enhancement cardiac MRI is emerging as a more effective imaging technique for thrombus identification. This study aims to determine the prevalence of occult cardiac thrombosis in patients undergoing clinically indicated cardiac MRI.

Methods:

A retrospective chart review of children and adults in the Duke University Hospital Fontan registry who underwent delayed-enhancement cardiac MRI. Individuals were excluded if they never received a delayed-enhancement cardiac MRI or had insufficient data. Demographic characteristics, native heart anatomy, cardiac MRI measurements, and thromboembolic events were collected for all patients.

Results:

In total, 119 unique individuals met inclusion criteria with a total of 171 scans. The median age at Fontan procedure was 3 (interquartile range 1, 4) years. The majority of patients had dominant systemic right ventricle. Cardiac function was relatively unchanged from the first cardiac MRI to the third cardiac MRI. While 36.4% had a thrombotic event by history, only 0.5% (1 patient) had an intracardiac thrombus detected by delayed-enhancement cardiac MRI.

Conclusions:

Despite previous echocardiographic reports of high prevalence of occult thrombosis in patients with Fontan circulation, we found very low prevalence using delayed-enhancement cardiac MRI. As more individuals are reaching adulthood after requiring early Fontan procedures in childhood, further work is needed to develop thrombus-screening protocols as a part of anticoagulation management.
Merchants of Certainty: Reconsidering Scientific Credibility and Prestige
Authors: Bridger Sarah
Published: March 2024

At the California State Polytechnic University in San Luis Obispo, where I teach, the subjects traditionally defined as “science”—physics, chemistry, biology—make their institutional home in the College of Science and Mathematics. The history department, on the other hand, is housed in the College of Liberal Arts, alongside philosophy, English, psychology, and the umbrella “social sciences” of sociology, anthropology, and religious studies, to name a few. Why, one might ask, have these fields been organized this way? What exactly distinguishes science from the liberal arts? Meanwhile, within the College of Science and Mathematics, highly credentialed professors offer courses in astronomy and chemistry, but not astrology and alchemy. Why not? My students might respond that the answers are obvious: alchemy is not real science, of course, and whereas science is objective and empirical, the liberal arts are subjective and interpretive. But where did these distinctions originate? Who determines and maintains them? What, if anything, can the history of these categories tell us about the waxing and waning of scientific authority in the twentieth century?
The dry sky: future scenarios for humanity's modification of the atmospheric water cycle
Authors: Keys Patrick W. , Wang-Erlandsson Lan , Moore Michele-Lee , Pranindita Agnes , Stenzel Fabian , Varis Olli , Warrier Rekha , Wong R. Bin , D'Odorico Paolo , Folke Carl
Published: March 2024

Non-Technical Summary

Human societies are changing where and how water flows through the atmosphere. However, these changes in the atmospheric water cycle are not being managed, nor is there any real sense of where these changes might be headed in the future. Thus, we develop a new economic theory of atmospheric water management, and explore this theory using creative story-based scenarios. These scenarios reveal surprising possibilities for the future of atmospheric water management, ranging from a stock market for transpiration to on-demand weather. We discuss these story-based futures in the context of research and policy priorities in the present day.

Technical Summary

Humanity is modifying the atmospheric water cycle, via land use, climate change, air pollution, and weather modification. Historically, atmospheric water was implicitly considered a ‘public good’ since it was neither actively consumed nor controlled. However, given anthropogenic changes, atmospheric water can become a ‘common-pool’ good (consumable) or a ‘club’ good (controllable). Moreover, advancements in weather modification presage water becoming a ‘private’ good, meaning both consumable and controllable. Given the implications, we designed a theoretical framing of atmospheric water as an economic good and used a combination of methods in order to explore possible future scenarios based on human modifications of the atmospheric water cycle. First, a systematic literature search of scholarly abstracts was used in a computational text analysis. Second, the output of the text analysis was matched to different parts of an existing economic goods framework. Then, a group of global water experts were trained and developed story-based scenarios. The resultant scenarios serve as creative investigations of the future of human modification of the atmospheric water cycle. We discuss how the scenarios can enhance anticipatory capacity in the context of both future research frontiers and potential policy pathways including transboundary governance, finance, and resource management.

Social Media Summary

Story-based scenarios reveal novel future pathways for the management of the atmospheric water cycle.
Geomorphology and Age Constraints of Seamounts in the Cabo Verde Archipelago, and Their Relationship to Island Ages and Geodynamic Evolution
Authors: Kwasnitschka Tom , Hansteen Thor H. , Ramalho Ricardo S. , Devey Colin W. , Klügel Andreas , Samrock Lisa K. , Wartho Jo‐Anne
Published: March 2024

The Cabo Verde Archipelago is related to a mantle plume located close to the rotational pole of the African Plate. It consists of islands and seamounts arranged in a horseshoe‐shaped pattern open to the west, thus forming two volcanic chains, each with a weak east‐west age progression. High‐resolution swath bathymetry of 12 Cabo Verde seamounts is used here to assign each seamount to its pre‐shield, shield or post‐shield evolutionary stage, respectively. The eastern seamounts exhibit degraded and partially eroded morphologies, and are mainly in their post‐shield stage. A new 40Ar‐39Ar date for Senghor Seamount at 14.872 ± 0.027 Ma supports old ages for the eastern seamounts. The western seamounts generally exhibit younger volcanic‐edifice‐construction morphologies, showing fresh effusive and explosive volcanics, including rarely observed deep‐water explosive volcanism in the Charles Darwin Volcanic Field. Furthermore, the two previously unknown seamounts Sodade and Tavares in the westernmost termini of both volcanic chains exhibit pristine volcanic morphologies, in agreement with present‐day volcanism and seismic activity recorded from the western seamounts. The islands and seamounts rest on three submarine platforms to the east, northwest and southwest, respectively. Taken together, the seamount and island data suggest a shift in igneous activity from the eastern to the other platforms at about 8–6 Ma. However, the complex evolution pattern for both volcanic chains includes the simultaneous occurrence of pre‐shield or shield edifices at any time, followed by erosional and rejuvenation stages. The new seamount data still demonstrate ongoing westward submarine‐growth in both volcanic chains.
Controls on Bending‐Related Faulting Offshore of the Alaska Peninsula
Authors: Clarke Jacob , Shillington Donna J. , Regalla Christine , Gaherty James B. , Estep Justin , Wiens Douglas A. , Bécel Anne , Nedimović Mladen R.
Published: March 2024

Oceanic plates experience extensive normal faulting as they bend and subduct, enabling fracturing of the incoming lithosphere. Debate remains about the relative importance of pre‐existing faults, plate curvature and other factors controlling the extent and style of bending‐related faulting. The subduction zone off the Alaska Peninsula is an ideal place to investigate controls on bending faulting as the orientation of the abyssal‐hill fabric with respect to the trench and plate curvature vary along the margin. Here, we characterize faulting between longitudes 161°W and 155°W using newly collected multibeam bathymetry data. We also use a compilation of seismic reflection data to constrain patterns of sediment thickness on the incoming plate. Although sediment thickness increases over 1 km from 156°W to 160°W, most sediments were deposited prior to the onset of bending faulting and thus should have limited impact on the expression of bend‐related fault strikes and throws in bathymetry data. Where magnetic anomalies trend subparallel to the trench (<30°) west of ∼156°W, bending faults parallel magnetic anomalies, implying that bending faults reactivate pre‐existing structures. Where magnetic anomalies are highly oblique (>30°) to the trench east of 156°W, no bending faults are observed. Summed fault throws increase to the west, including where pre‐existing structure orientations are constant (between 157 and 161°W), suggesting that another factor such as the increase in slab curvature must influence bending faulting. However, the westward increase in summed fault throws is more abrupt than expected for gradual changes in slab bending alone, suggesting potential feedbacks between pre‐existing structures, slab dip, and faulting.
El Niño‐La Niña Asymmetries in the Changes of ENSO Complexities and Dynamics Since 1990
Authors: Li Xumin , Yu Jin‐Yi , Ding Ruiqiang
Published: March 2024

In around 1990, significant shifts occurred in the spatial pattern and temporal evolution of the El Niño‐Southern Oscillation (ENSO), with these shifts showing asymmetry between El Niño and La Niña phases. El Niño transitioned from the Eastern Pacific (EP) to the Central Pacific (CP) type, while La Niña's multi‐year (MY) events increased. These changes correlated with shifts in ENSO dynamics. Before 1990, El Niño was influenced by the Tropical Pacific (TP) ENSO dynamic, shifting to the Subtropical Pacific (SP) ENSO dynamic afterward, altering its spatial pattern. La Niña was influenced by the SP ENSO dynamic both before and after 1990 and has maintained the CP type. The strengthened SP ENSO dynamic since 1990, accompanied by enhanced precipitation efficiency during La Niña, make it easier for La Niña to transition into MY events. In contrast, there is no observed increase in precipitation efficiency during El Niño.
Space Geodetic Insights to the Dramatic Stress Rotation Induced by the February 2023 Turkey‐Syria Earthquake Doublet
Authors: Ma Zhangfeng , Li Chenglong , Jiang Yu , Chen Yukuan , Yin Xinzhong , Aoki Yosuke , Yun Sang‐Ho , Wei Shengji
Published: March 2024

The February 2023 Turkey‐Syria Earthquake doublet ruptured multiple segments of the East Anatolian Fault (EAF) Zone. Dominating seismicity focal mechanism shifted dramatically from strike‐slip to normal‐faulting after the doublet. To better understand this shift, here we derived a comprehensive 3D co‐seismic displacement field and performed the stress analysis. Abundant space geodetic data were used to generate high‐resolution 3D surface displacement, which provide tight constraints on fault geometry, slip distribution and stress field. Together with stress inversion from aftershock focal mechanisms, we show that the principal stress direction rotation in the region with the most normal‐faulting aftershocks is the staggering 29°. The induced heterogenous stress may explain the shift of the dominant focal mechanism toward normal faulting. We suggest that the extensional horsetail splay faults, likely formed through geologic time scale related to the releasing bend on the EAF, are the hosts of most of the normal faulting aftershocks.
Attitude and performance in controlling dust particles from dental prosthesis and appliance adjustment: a survey of dentists and dental assistants
Authors: Limpuangthip Nareudee , Salimee Prarom , Vanichanon Phanomporn
Published: March 2024

Objectives

To assess the attitude and practices of dentists and dental assistants in managing dust particles generated during dental prostheses or appliances grinding and polishing.

Materials and methods

Data were collected from 207 dentists and 125 dental assistants through an online questionnaire. The questionnaire included adjusted prosthesis types, self-protective methods, types and frequency of protective device use, and reasons for non-frequent use.

Results

Protective grinding devices, including dust protective boxes and mounted plastic sheets, were commonly used for substantial acrylic resin adjustments, while air blowing was preferred for minor adjustments. Post-COVID-19, there was a 3-fold increase in the use of protective grinding devices among dentists and a 1.3-fold increase among dental assistants. During try-in procedures, dentists commonly rinsed prostheses with water rather than using disinfectants. Non-frequent users adopted self-protection methods, such as face shields and air filters. Surgical drapes and high-volume evacuators were used for patient’s protection.

Conclusion

Despite an increased tendency of the use of protective grinding devices following COVID-19, a significant number still report infrequent use. Identified protective devices in this study have drawbacks not fully meeting dentists’ expectations. Invention of a more user-friendly device is necessary to ensure regular use, preventing potential toxicity from dust particles.
Assessment of visual function using mobile Apps
Authors: Bano Thaiba , Wolffsohn James S. , Sheppard Amy L.
Published: March 2024

With the advances in smartphone and tablet screens, as well as their processing power and software, mobile apps have been developed reporting to assess visual function. This review assessed those mobile apps that have been evaluated in the scientific literature to measure visual acuity, reading metrics, contrast sensitivity, stereoacuity, colour vision and visual fields; these constitute just a small percentage of the total number of mobile apps reporting to measure these metrics available for tablets and smartphones. In general, research suggests that most of the mobile apps evaluated can accurately mimic most traditionally paper-based tests of visual function, benefitting from more even illumination from the backlit screen and aspects such as multiple tests and versions (to minimise memorisation) being available on the same equipment. Some also utilise the in-built device sensors to monitor aspects such as working distance and screen tilt. As the consequences of incorrectly recording visual function and using this to inform clinical management are serious, clinicians must check on the validity of a mobile app before adopting it as part of clinical practice.
Completely annealing-free flexible Perovskite quantum dot solar cells employing UV-sintered Ga-doped SnO2 electron transport layers
Authors: Kim Wooyeon , Kim Jigeon , Kim Dayoung , Koo Bonkee , Yu Subin , Li Yuelong , Kim Younghoon , Ko Min Jae
Published: March 2024

The electron transport layer (ETL) is a critical component in perovskite quantum dot (PQD) solar cells, significantly impacting their photovoltaic performance and stability. Low-temperature ETL deposition methods are especially desirable for fabricating flexible solar cells on polymer substrates. Herein, we propose a room-temperature-processed tin oxide (SnO2) ETL preparation method for flexible PQD solar cells. The process involves synthesizing highly crystalline SnO2 nanocrystals stabilized with organic ligands, spin-coating their dispersion, followed by UV irradiation. The energy level of SnO2 is controlled by doping gallium ions to reduce the energy level mismatch with the PQD. The proposed ETL-based CsPbI3-PQD solar cell achieves a power conversion efficiency (PCE) of 12.70%, the highest PCE among reported flexible quantum dot solar cells, maintaining 94% of the initial PCE after 500 bending tests. Consequently, we demonstrate that a systemically designed ETL enhances the photovoltaic performance and mechanical stability of flexible optoelectronic devices.
Establishing the profile of eye diseases among elderly patients attending a tertiary hospital in Northern Malawi
Authors: Banda Owen , Mzumara Thokozani , Ogbonna Grace
Published: March 2024

Globally, there has been a dramatic increase in the geriatric population. Sadly, this populace is highly prone to develop various ocular morbidities putting pressure on the strained eye care delivery system especially in low-income countries. Hence, the aim of this study was to determine the distribution of ocular morbidities among elderly. The study was a retrospective cross-sectional study conducted at Mzuzu Central Hospital in Malawi. We retrieved data from the hospital’s Ophthalmology out-patient registry from January 2021 to December 2021. We recruited all 970 elderly patients who visited the clinic during the period of study. Data entry and analysis was done employing SPSS (v.26). More males than females had ocular morbidities. Cataract 400 (41.2%) was the most prevalent ocular morbidity followed by glaucoma 189 (19.5%), pinguecula 48 (4.9%) and allergic conjunctivitis 43 (4.4%). Anterior segment eye diseases were common 714 (73.6%). The prevalence of cataract, glaucoma, refractive error and allergic conjunctivitis was significantly associated with sex (p < 0.05). Age association was found with the prevalence of cataract, glaucoma, pinguecula, allergic conjunctivitis and corneal scar (p < 0.05). The pattern of eye diseases is endemic to the country. More resources should be targeting cataract and glaucoma among the age group.
A pilot study to explore patterns and predictors of delayed kidney decline after cardiopulmonary bypass
Authors: Zaky Ahmed , Younan Duraid S. , Meers Bradley , Miller David , Melvin Ryan L. , Benz David , Davies James , Kidd Brent , Mathru Mali , Tolwani Ashita
Published: March 2024

There is no current consensus on the follow up of kidney function in patients undergoing cardiopulmonary bypass (CPB). The main objectives of this pilot study is to collect preliminary data on kidney function decline encountered on the first postoperative visit of patients who have had CPB and to identify predictors of kidney function decline post hospital discharge. Design: Retrospective chart review. Adult patients undergoing open heart procedures utilizing CPB. Patient demographics, type of procedure, pre-, intra-, and postoperative clinical, hemodynamic echocardiographic, and laboratory data were abstracted from electronic medical records. Acute kidney disease (AKD), and chronic kidney disease (CKD) were diagnosed based on standardized criteria. Interval change in medications, hospital admissions, and exposure to contrast, from hospital discharge till first postoperative visit were collected. AKD, and CKD as defined by standardized criteria on first postoperative visit. 83 patients were available for analysis. AKD occurred in 27 (54%) of 50 patients and CKD developed in 12 (42%) out of 28 patients. Older age was associated with the development of both AKD and CKD. Reduction in right ventricular cardiac output at baseline was associated with AKD (OR: 0.5, 95% CI: 0.3, 0.79, P = 0.01). Prolongation of transmitral early diastolic filling wave deceleration time was associated with CKD (OR: 1.02, 95% CI: 1.01, 1.05, P = 0.03). In-hospital acute kidney injury (AKI) was a predictor of neither AKD nor CKD. AKD and CKD occur after CPB and may not be predicted by in-hospital AKI. Older age, right ventricular dysfunction and diastolic dysfunction are important disease predictors. An adequately powered longitudinal study is underway to study more sensitive predictors of delayed forms of kidney decline after CPB.
An improved pear disease classification approach using cycle generative adversarial network
Authors: Alshammari Khulud , Alshammari Reem , Alshammari Alanoud , Alkhudaydi Tahani
Published: March 2024

A large number of countries worldwide depend on the agriculture, as agriculture can assist in reducing poverty, raising the country’s income, and improving the food security. However, the plan diseases usually affect food crops and hence play a significant role in the annual yield and economic losses in the agricultural sector. In general, plant diseases have historically been identified by humans using their eyes, where this approach is often inexact, time-consuming, and exhausting. Recently, the employment of machine learning and deep learning approaches have significantly improved the classification and recognition accuracy for several applications. Despite the CNN models offer high accuracy for plant disease detection and classification, however, the limited available data for training the CNN model affects seriously the classification accuracy. Therefore, in this paper, we designed a Cycle Generative Adversarial Network (CycleGAN) to overcome the limitations of over-fitting and the limited size of the available datasets. In addition, we developed an efficient plant disease classification approach, where we adopt the CycleGAN architecture in order to enhance the classification accuracy. The obtained results showed an average enhancement of 7% in the classification accuracy.
Bariatric surgery mitigated electrocardiographic abnormalities in patients with morbid obesity
Authors: Bazrafshan Mehdi , Nematollahi Soroush , Kamali Maliheh , Farrokhian Ariya , Moeinvaziri Nader , Bazrafshan Hanieh , Noormohammadi Niusha , Keshtvarz Hesam Abadi Ali Mohammad , Bazrafshan drissi Hamed
Published: March 2024

Obesity can lead to cardiovascular dysfunctions and cause electrocardiographic disruptions. Bariatric surgery plays a significant role in weight loss. To assess its benefits, this study investigated electrocardiographic changes before and after bariatric surgery. The present article describes a retrospective cohort study with a 6-month follow-up period. Electrocardiograms were interpreted and compared before and six months after surgery. The relationships between weight loss, type of surgery, and electrocardiographic alterations were analyzed. A total of 200 patients participated in the study, with 34 (17%) men and 166 (83%) women. The mean age of the participants was 44.6 ± 8.6, and their mean body mass index was 43.8 ± 5.5 kg/m2. The mean of QTc decreased after the surgery, while the Sokolow-Lyon scores increased. The statistical analysis showed that QTc dispersion (> 40) (P < 0.001), right ventricular hypertrophy (P < 0.001), abnormal R wave progression (P < 0.001), QTc (P < 0.001) and Sokolow-Lyon criteria (P < 0.001) significantly changed postoperatively. In conclusion, bariatric surgery can reduce QTc, correct poor R wave progression, and resolve right ventricular hypertrophy (RVH) in patients with morbid obesity.
Optical coherence tomography parameters as prognostic factors for stereopsis after vitrectomy for unilateral epiretinal membrane: a cohort study
Authors: Shen Simei , Jin Siyan , Li Fuqiang , Zhao Jinsong
Published: March 2024

This retrospective cohort study explored the relationship between monocular and interocular optical coherence tomography (OCT) parameters and stereopsis in 56 patients undergoing pars plana vitrectomy (PPV) for unilateral idiopathic epiretinal membrane (IERM). IERM impairs visual functions, with symptoms ranging from asymptomatic to severe impairment. Despite established surgical interventions, including PPV with membrane peeling, the impact on advanced three-dimensional visual functions such as stereopsis remains inadequately investigated. All subjects were assessed for stereopsis, visual acuity, and metamorphopsia, alongside spectral domain OCT parameters. These visual functions significantly improved 3-month postoperatively. Central retinal thickness at the fovea, parafovea, and perifovea (CFT, CRT-3 mm, and CRT-6 mm), ectopic inner foveal layer thickness, and retinal layer thickness notably decreased 1 week to 3 months after surgery. The interocular difference in OCT parameters between bilateral eyes was included as a parameter. Baseline CRT-3 mm difference and inner nuclear layer (INL) thickness were independently correlated with postoperative stereopsis on the Titmus Stereo Test, while baseline CRT-6 mm difference and INL thickness were independently related to stereopsis on the TNO stereotest. This study highlights the substantial enhancement in stereopsis post-IERM surgery, with both interocular and monocular OCT parameters independently influencing postoperative stereopsis. These findings underscore the importance of retinal microstructures in assessing and predicting stereopsis in IERM patients after vitrectomy.
Water strategy improves the inflorescence primordia formation of 'Arra 15' grapevine in the Brazilian semiarid region
Authors: de Oliveira Cíntia Patrícia Martins , Simões Welson Lima , de Melo Chaves Agnaldo Rodrigues , Silva Jucicléia Soares da , Pereira Ribeiro Teodoro Larissa , de Camargos Liliane Santos , Gava Ricardo , Sobral Yuri Rafael Alves , Teodoro Paulo Eduardo
Published: March 2024

Failure in irrigation management of grapevines grown in the Brazilian semiarid region can affect bud fertility. Adequate irrigation, considering both the development of bunches in the current cycle and the formation of fertile buds for subsequent cycles, can bring significant advances to viticulture. Therefore, the objective of this research was to investigate the effect of different irrigation levels during flowering on the formation of buds and potential bunches of 'Arra 15' grapevine and its relationship with metabolic processes. A field experiment was carried out in a commercial vineyard in Petrolina, Pernambuco, Brazil, during the 2021 and 2022 seasons. The experiment was designed in randomized blocks with four replications and five irrigation levels (70; 85; 100; 115 and 130% of crop evapotranspiration – ETc) during three production cycles. The variables fertile bud, vegetative bud, dead bud, potential fertility of the basal, median, and apical regions of the branches, number of potential bunches, reducing sugar, total soluble sugar, net photosynthesis, stomatal conductance, transpiration, and relative chlorophyll index were evaluated. The 115% ETc irrigation level improved the number of fertile buds and number of potential bunches. Irrigation level above 115% ETc increased gas exchange and relative chlorophyll index, while 70% ETc increased leaf sugar content. The most appropriate irrigation strategy is the application of 115% ETc during the flowering stage, for the increase of fertile buds and potential bunches of the next cycle, without influencing the vine metabolism. Total soluble sugars are a promising indicator of water deficit during flowering and as an indicator of vegetative bud formation for the next cycle.
Multigrid simulations of non-Newtonian fluid flow and heat transfer in a ventilated square cavity with mixed convection and baffles
Authors: Rehman Nusrat , Mahmood Rashid , Majeed Afraz Hussain , Khan Ilyas , Mohamed Abdullah
Published: March 2024

The impact of baffles on a convective heat transfer of a non-Newtonian fluid is experimentally studied within a square cavity. The non-Newtonian fluid is pumped into the cavity through the inlet and subsequently departs from the cavity via the outlet. Given the inherent non-linearity of the model, a numerical technique has been selected as the method for obtaining the outcomes. Primarily, the governing equations within the two-dimensional domain have been discretized using the finite element method. For approximating velocity and pressure, we have employed the reliable $${\mathbb{P}}_{2}$$

P
2

–$${\mathbb{P}}_{1}$$

P
1

finite element pair, while for temperature, we have opted for the quadratic basis. To enhance convergence speed and accuracy, we employ the powerful multigrid approach. This study investigates how key parameters like Richardson number (Ri), Reynolds number (Re), and baffle gap $${{\text{b}}}_{{\text{g}}}$$

b
g

influence heat transfer within a cavity comprising a non-Newtonian fluid. The baffle gap ($${b}_{g}$$

b
g

) has been systematically altered within the range of 0.2–0.6, and for this research, three distinct power law indices have been selected namely: 0.5, 1.0, and 1.5. The primary outcomes of the investigation are illustrated through velocity profiles, streamlines, and isotherm visualizations. Furthermore, the study includes the computation of the $${Nu}_{avg}$$

Nu

avg

(average Nusselt number) across a range of parameter values. As the Richardson number (Ri) increases, $${Nu}_{avg}$$

Nu

avg

also rises, indicating that an increase in Ri results in augmented average heat transfer. Making the space between the baffles wider makes heat flow more intense. This, in turn, heats up more fluid within the cavity.
Exploiting hot electrons from a plasmon nanohybrid system for the photoelectroreduction of CO2
Authors: Dey Ananta , Silveira Vitor R. , Vadell Robert Bericat , Lindblad Andreas , Lindblad Rebecka , Shtender Vitalii , Görlin Mikaela , Sá Jacinto
Published: March 2024

Plasmonic materials convert light into hot carriers and heat to mediate catalytic transformation. The participation of hot carriers (photocatalysis) remains a subject of vigorous debate, often argued on the basis that carriers have ultrashort lifetime incompatible with drive photochemical processes. This study utilises plasmon hot electrons directly in the photoelectrocatalytic reduction of CO2 to CO via a Ppasmonic nanohybrid. Through the deliberate construction of a plasmonic nanohybrid system comprising NiO/Au/ReI(phen-NH2)(CO)3Cl (phen-NH2 = 1,10-Phenanthrolin-5-amine) that is unstable above 580 K; it was possible to demonstrate hot electrons are the main culprit in CO2 reduction. The engagement of hot electrons in the catalytic process is derived from many approaches that cover the processes in real-time, from ultrafast charge generation and separation to catalysis occurring on the minute scale. Unbiased in situ FTIR spectroscopy confirmed the stepwise reduction of the catalytic system. This, coupled with the low thermal stability of the ReI(phen-NH2)(CO)3Cl complex, explicitly establishes plasmonic hot carriers as the primary contributors to the process. Therefore, mediating catalytic reactions by plasmon hot carriers is feasible and holds promise for further exploration. Plasmonic nanohybrid systems can leverage plasmon’s unique photophysics and capabilities because they expedite the carrier’s lifetime.
Enhanced water permeation through the terahertz-induced phase and diffusion transition in metal–organic framework membranes
Authors: Zhu Zhi , Wang Lei , Yan Shaojian , Zhang Qilin , Yang Hui
Published: March 2024

The use of terahertz waves are proven to be a powerful method for significantly, reversibly, and remotely enhancing water permeation across MOF membranes.
Electrochemical oxidative cross-coupling of tetrahydroquinolines and azoles
Authors: Yang Dan , Tan Yu-Fang , Zhao Ya-Nan , Lv Jin-Feng , Guan Zhi , He Yan-Hong
Published: March 2024

An electrochemical method is described for the direct oxidative C–N coupling of tetrahydroquinolines and azoles, enabling the synthesis of dihydroquinoline-azole and quinoline-azole derivatives under mild reaction conditions.
Facile and scalable bilayer polymer encapsulation to achieve long-term stability of perovskite solar cells under harsh humidity conditions
Authors: Raman Rohith Kumar , Ganesan Saraswathi , Alagumalai Ananthan , Sudhakaran Menon Vidya , Krishnan Suresh , Gurusamy Thangavelu Senthil A. , Krishnamoorthy Ananthanarayanan
Published: March 2024

A bilayer polymer encapsulation strategy is used to improve the perovskite solar cells stability under high humidity conditions (80 ± 5% RH).
Multi-period optimization of hydrogen refueling station layouts considering refueling satisfaction and hydrogen fuel cell vehicle market diffusion
Authors: Zhou Yan , Qin Xunpeng , Yang Wenlong
Published: March 2024

The strategic site selection of hydrogen refueling stations (HRSs) in the network and user satisfaction mutually influence each other, presenting a typical bilevel planning problem for optimizing the hydrogen refueling network.
Impact of the rearing environment on the metabolism of shrimps and tracing the origins and species of shrimps using specific metabolites
Authors: Ao Tongtala , Liu Aolin , Soko Winnie C. , Bi Hongyan
Published: March 2024

Herein, the link between rearing environmental condition and metabolism was explored, and the origins and species of certain shrimps can be traced by using specific metabolites.
Magnesium(ii) complexes supported by indole- and pyrrole-containing Schiff-base ligands: syntheses, structures, and applications as precatalysts in the hydroboration of nitriles and alkynes
Authors: Wu Mengxiang , Chen Ling , Yang Xiaohan , Li Yahong
Published: March 2024

Five magnesium compounds were synthesized. They are active precatalysts for the hydroboration of nitriles and alkynes. The catalytic reactions feature mild reaction conditions, excellent functional group tolerance, and high yields.
Effects of silylene ligands on the catalytic activity of [PSiP] pincer cobalt(ii) chloride for N2 silylation
Authors: Zhang Min , Dong Yanhong , Li Qingshuang , Li Xiaoyan , Sun Hongjian
Published: March 2024

Three silyl [PSiP] pincer cobalt(ii) chlorides [(2-Ph2PC6H4)2MeSiCo(Cl)(PMe3)] (1), [(2-iPr2PC6H4)2MeSiCo(Cl)(PMe3)] (2) and [(2-Ph2PC6H4)2MeSiCo(Cl)(LSi:)] (LSi: = {PhC(NtBu)2}SiCl) (3) were used as catalysts for dinitrogen silylation was studied.
Correction: Immunoassay-aptasensor for the determination of tumor-derived exosomes based on the combination of magnetic nanoparticles and hybridization chain reaction
Authors: Zhang Hua , Zhou Yajuan , Luo Dan , Liu Jingjian , Yang E. , Yang Guangyi , Feng Guangjun , Chen Qinhua , Wu Lun
Published: March 2024

Correction for ‘Immunoassay-aptasensor for the determination of tumor-derived exosomes based on the combination of magnetic nanoparticles and hybridization chain reaction’ by Hua Zhang et al., RSC Adv., 2021, 11, 4983–4990, https://doi.org/10.1039/D0RA10159A.
In silico exploration of acetic acid driven multicomponent synthesis: design, characterization, and antioxidant evaluation of spiroacridines and spiroquinolines
Authors: Patel Subham G. , Upadhyay Dipti B. , Shah Nirajkumar V. , Parmar Mehul P. , Patel Paras J. , Malik Apoorva , Sharma Rakesh K. , Patel Hitendra M.
Published: March 2024

A simple, rapid and efficient multicomponent synthesis of spiroacridines and spiroquinolines was carried out under the influence of acetic acid and their antioxidant properties, DFT, docking and in silico ADMET and drug-likeness properties were explored.
Observation of solar energetic particles with Metis on board Solar Orbiter on February 25, 2023
Authors: Grimani C. , Fabi M. , Persici A. , Sabbatini F. , Villani M. , Frassati F. , Antonucci E. , Pancrazzi M. , Telloni D. , Kühl P. , Rodríguez-Pacheco J. , Wimmer-Schweingruber R. F. , Andretta V. , Chioetto P. , Da Deppo V. , Gissot S. , Jerse G. , Messerotti M. , Naletto G. , Plainaki C. , Romoli M. , Spadaro D. , Stangalini M. , Teriaca L. , Uslenghi M. , Abbo L. , Burtovoi A. , Landini F. , Nicolini G. , Russano G. , Sasso C. , Susino R.
Published: March 2024

Context.The Solar Orbiter Metis coronagraph captures images of the solar corona in both visible (VL) and ultraviolet (UV) light. Tracks ascribable to the passage of galactic and solar particles appear in the Metis images. An algorithm implemented in the Metis processing electronics allows us to separate the pixels fired by VL photons from those crossed by high-energy particles. These spurious pixels are stored in cosmic-ray matrices that can be visually analyzed for particle monitoring deep into the spacecraft’s interior. This algorithm has been enabled for the VL instrument only, since the process of separating the particle tracks from pixels fired by photons in the UV images was shown to be quite challenging with respect to a quantitative analysis.

Aims.This work is aimed at studying galactic cosmic rays (GCRs) and solar energetic particles (SEPs) with the Metis cosmic-ray matrices in February 2023.

Methods.We compared a visual analysis of Metis cosmic-ray matrices gathered on February 22, 2023, with GCRs only, and on February 25, 2023 with both GCRs and SEPs, to Monte Carlo simulations of the VL instrument during the same days.

Results.We estimated the solar modulation parameter associated with the GCR proton energy spectrum in February 2023. We show that Metis plays the role of monitoring galactic and solar protons. The Metis particle observations are used for the diagnostics of the VL instrument performance and to study the spacecraft inner charging from solar minimum towards the next solar maximum. These achievements have been attained with the benefit of the joint observations of Metis, the Energetic Particle Detector/High Energy Telescope, and near-Earth and Earth-based instruments.
Regional forest management in the Volga Federal District: trends and prospects
Authors: Yakovenko N. , Semina I.
Published: March 2024

In the 21st century, it is difficult to overestimate the importance of forest resources. Every year the role of forests as the ecosystem is growing due to the settlement of the technogenic impact of domestic industry on the environment. Today, in regions where the forest is the raw material base of the forestry complex, a place of employment of the local population and a source of replenishment of the budget at various levels, it is important to conduct a comprehensive analysis of forest management in Russia and develop a strategy for socio-economic development of the use of forest resource potential to improve the well-being of the local population and ensure the ecological and economic balance of the territory on this basis. The article reveals the trends of regional nature management on the example of the Volga Federal District. It is shown that especially negative trends are manifested in the fight against forest damage and fires, protection of forests from pests and diseases, preservation of forest biodiversity, their social and ecosystem functions. The issues of changing the structure of reforestation and the resulting problems of forest management are disclosed. Measures are proposed for the effective implementation of an intensive model of forestry management
Features description for the predatory mite Phytoseiulus persimilis Athias-Henriot, 1957 (Mesostigmata: subfam. Amblyseiinae)
Authors: Meshkov Yury , Glinushkin Alexey , Dubenok Nikolay , Stepanova Eugenia , Nesvat Aleksandr
Published: March 2024

The predatory mite Phytoseiulus persimilis A.-H. is used as aspecific acariphage on vegetable and flower crops. In protected ground P.persimilis is the most effective predator of twospotted spider mites (Tetranychidae). The scopes of pesticides use in the struggle withtwospotted spider mites – pests of food and flower crops – are limited bythe acaricides quantity. There are resistant pest races from which it ispossible to protect crops only with help of predaceous mites. The specialfeature of the P. persimilis use on protected ground is the rapid rate ofpopulation reproduction of the. The basis for the effective use of P. persimilis is the timely detection of twospotted spider mite foci sites andthe settlement of a certain number of predaceous mites there. On thebackdrop of the pesticides use, it is necessary to do surveys every 4–5days, at a temperature of 25 °C. This mite is widely used to protect gardenstrawberries, especially during tunnel cultivation. Flower crops (roses canbe taken as the example) are also effectively protected by phytoseiulus onshrub-shaped plants. However, flower plants under forcing treatmentrequire more drought-resistant acariphages.
Monitoring the electrical potential difference of pine tree
Authors: Belashev Boris
Published: March 2024

The subject of the study is the time series of the difference in electrical potentials along the trunk of a pine tree and the time series of meteorological and geomagnetic parameters consistent with them, measured by hardware and software complexes of the geophysical observatory "Petrozavodsk" and the Botanical Garden of Petrozavodsk State University in 2017-2022, as well as the time series of the K-index database global geomagnetic activity. The existence of characteristic regimes in the difference in electrical potentials of pine trees is shown, depending on the season, temperature, precipitation, humidity, determined by physical environmental factors and physiological processes in the tree. The reaction of the electrical potential difference of pine trees to meteorological parameters, thunderstorms, and space weather phenomena: magnetic storms and solar eclipses is analyzed. The results of these observations are qualitatively interpreted using known features of electric field of the Earth.
Interdependence of stocking rate and relative density in mixed spruce-dominated stands of the Yenisei ridge
Authors: Shevelev Sergey , Mikhaylov Pavel
Published: March 2024

The study is focused on a particular issue in the field of analysis of the stands horizontal structure, which is of practical importance. The aim of the present research is to study the interdependence of stocking rate and relative density in mature and overmature mixed spruce-dominated stands of the Yenisei Ridge. The research was based on the materials obtained from 15 research plots where we felled and measured 159 model trees. Stocking and density are interrelated. Nevertheless, the relationship is complex since the stocking undergoes through two main stages - an increase in the number of trees and the following thinning of forest stands. The research was conducted in mature and overmature mixed Siberian spruce-dominated stands of different stocking rates. All the studied forests stands were of the same stage of development. As a result, we revealed the extent to which stands characteristics depend on stocking (at stand-wide level and for forest-forming species separately). We also defined equations stating the correlation between relative density and stocking.
The influence of park and forest areas on the psychological state of urban residents
Authors: Pronenko Evgeny
Published: March 2024

The influence of nature on the psychological state of a person needs to be studied in connection with ongoing urbanization. Every day taller houses are being built, groves are being cut down for the construction of new residential complexes and greenery in urban areas is being reduced. At the same time cases of urban population reporting symptoms of depression, apathy and anxiety are becoming more frequent. Our review allows us to consider how urban greening affects the mental well-being of the population and what is the relationship between interaction with green areas and the development of human personality. It has been established that nature influences the mental state and well-being of a person both directly and indirectly through physical activity. Presencing children in nature encourages the development of their cognitive sphere, improving memory and creativity. There is a direction called ecopsychology, the central method of which is ecotherapy, which affects human psychology through therapeutic activities in green areas.
Effect of planting time and seedling feeding area on the yield and biochemical composition of leek (Allium porrum L.)
Authors: Sullieva Suluv , Zokirov Kurbonalijon , Nishonov Norjigit , Atamuratova Nafisa , Abdullayev Bakhtiyor
Published: March 2024

In the article, the results of the research carried out in order to study the effect of planting time and feeding area on the biochemical composition of leek (Allium porrum L.) are presented with an in-depth scientific analysis. Planting was done by hand in 4x1 cm rows in 7x40x60 cm boxes in the greenhouse on February 20, March 10, and April 1. Seedlings appeared after 10-12 days, on May 1 they were transplanted to open ground. This ensured that the seedlings were 70, 50, and 30 days old. Planting in open ground was carried out in a scheme of 50x10 cm. Harvesting took place on September 1-5. At the end of the research, the data analysis shows that by evaluating the nature of growth of false stem diameter in leek onion plants at different planting periods during the growing season, it can be noted that the feeding area for seedlings is larger and the seedlings when planted early, standard products had earlier maturity and higher product quality.
Prospects of artificial soil substrate use for flower crops cultivation in protected ground
Authors: Stepanova Eugenia V. , Nesvat P. , Bastaeva Galya T. , Lyavdanskaya Olga A. , Glinushkin Alexey P.
Published: March 2024

Harsh continental climate of Orenburg region is characterized by extremely low rates of precipitation at vegetation period, so the cultivation of flowers with protected root system has wide usage and is highly developed. The search for the optimal combined artificial soil in terms of physico-chemical composition is of great scientific and practical importance. In the short-term model experiment, variants of artificial soils are under exploration, with differing ratios of basic fillers that cover the physiological needs of flower crops when grown with a closed root system in greenhouse complexes. The results of laboratory study of artificially constructed soils based on essential materials (peat, coconut filler, river sand) and agricultural waste (horse manure, sunflower seed husk, raw fawl dung) are also presented. Combined soils are developed for the purpose of growing gerbera on “Bounty” soil and garden chrysanthemum on “Elysium” soil. These soils take into account the bioecological and agrotechnological features of greenhouse cultivation of these types of flower plants. The studied flower crops respond quite well to the physico-chemical composition of soils, showing stable growth of vegetative and generative organs.