bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Enhancing Oxygen Evolution Catalytic Performance of Nickel Borate with Cobalt Doping and Carbon Nanotubes
Authors: Enez Semra , Karani Konuksever Veysel , Samuei Sara , Karadas Ferdi , Ülker Emine
Published: February 2023

Metal borates have recently been recognized as alternative earth‐abundant water oxidation catalysts. Herein, we employed solid‐state synthesis to prepare a series of Ni−Co borates, NiaCo(3‐a)(BO3)2, with a Kotoite structure to elucidate the effect of the metal‐doping on the water oxidation activity of metal borates. We performed electrocatalytic and photocatalytic studies to reveal that the catalytic activity could be enhanced with cobalt doping and by using carbon nanotubes (CNTs) as the substrate. Ni3B2O6 exhibits an overpotential of 525 mV to reach current densities of 10 mA cm−2 in 1 M KOH solution, while it is 355 mV for Co2NiB2O6_CNT@CC. The overpotential is also 100 mV lower than the pure catalyst (Co2NiB2O6@CC, 445 mV). The as‐prepared samples exhibit significantly enhanced photocatalytic activities for water oxidation under visible‐light irradiation with an increasing cobalt ratio, and an average O2 evolution rate of up to 1822 μmol h−1 g−1 is obtained for Co3B2O6, which is nearly 1.78, 4.25, and 4.90 times higher than the rates obtained for Co2NiB2O6, CoNi2B2O6, and Ni3B2O6, respectively.
Advances in Electrochemical Systems for Detection of Anti‐Androgens in Water Bodies
Authors: Ravele Thompho , Fuku Xolile G. , Hlongwa Ntuthuko W. , Nkambule Thabo T. I. , Gumbi Nozipho N. , Sekhosana Kutloano E.
Published: February 2023

Anti‐androgens are a class of drugs that have been used successfully to treat prostate cancer for decades. However, most of these drugs are associated with several adverse effects, triggering widespread concern about the occupational exposure to these drugs, as well as the ecotoxicological risks to the aquatic ecosystem and the environment. This review unpacks the mechanistic pathways of anti‐androgens in water, the risk on the aquatic ecosystem associated with the presence of anti‐androgens in water, as well as human health risks in general. Anti‐androgen detection and quantification methods are also covered, with electrochemical techniques being highlighted as the most reliable approach for the detection and quantification of anti‐androgens in water. The focus of this review is on electrochemical sensors for the determination of anti‐androgens in water as they allow rapid sample analysis, with high sensitivity, good precision, and at low cost. Progress made in developing nanomaterial‐based electrochemical sensors for the detection and quantification of anti‐androgens in water is reviewed in this paper. The metal oxide‐based electrochemical sensor is discussed in greater depth in this review as a viable approach for detecting and quantifying anti‐androgens in water.
Facile Fabrication of NiFe Double Hydroxide on Carbon Matrix Composites as an Efficient Oxygen Electrocatalyst for Rechargeable Zn‐air Batteries
Authors: Dong Xinyao , Yao Zhihui , Li Yuting , Wang Juan , Zhong Qin
Published: February 2023

Air cathodes with highly effective oxygen reduction and oxygen evolution reaction performance are crucial for commercial applications in rechargeable Zn‐air batteries (RZABs). Commercial catalysts are expensive and scarce, which restricts their practical applications. Therefore, the design of high‐cost‐performance and electrochemical activities bifunctional non‐precious metal catalysts is urgent. The bifunctional catalyst (BZIF‐C@LDH) combining NiFe‐LDH and ZIF‐8&ZIF‐67 derivative (BZIF‐C) was readily prepared with a co‐precipitation approach. As expected, the obtained BZIF‐C@LDH exhibits outstanding bifunctional performance (ΔE=0.761 V) for oxygen reduction and oxygen evolution reaction. Furthermore, compared to commercial Pt/C‐RuO2 in RZABs, BZIF‐C@LDH displays a superior energy density (1033 Wh kg−1), which is close to the theoretical energy density (1086 Wh kg−1). This work provides a straightforward and inexpensive strategy for the synthesis of excellent and practicable bifunctional catalysts for RZABs.
Electrochemically Polymerized DL‐Phenylalanine‐Deposited Graphene Paste Electrode for the Detection of Rutin
Authors: Kanthappa B. , Manjunatha J. G. , Hareesha N. , Tighezza Ammar M. , Albaqami Munirah D. , Sillanpää Mika
Published: February 2023

The sensitive, economical, green, and simple voltammetric sensor for the detection of the redox behaviour of rutin (RT) was prepared by the electrochemical polymerization approach. The constructed polymerized DL‐phenylalanine (DL‐PN) modified graphene paste electrode (MGPE) and bare graphene paste electrode (BGPE) were elucidated using cyclic voltammetry (CV), differential pulse voltammetry (DPV), electrochemical impedance spectroscopic (EIS) and field emission scanning electron microscopic (FE‐SEM) approaches. The analysis of RT in phosphate‐buffered saline (PBS) of pH 6.5 was demonstrated by the application of a modified electrode (Poly(DL‐PN)MGPE) with higher electrocatalytic activity and active sites as compared to BGPE. The important electrochemical parameters such as the influence of PBS, pH, scan rate, and concentration of RT on Poly(DL‐PN)MGPE were evaluated. The variation of scan rate and PBS pH assessment discloses that the RT redox nature at Poly(DL‐PN)MGPE surface has proceeded via pH‐dependant and adsorption‐controlled pathways. The Poly(DL‐PN)MGPE senses RT in the range from 0.2 to 10.0 μM with a lower limit of detection (LOD) value of 8.31 nM and a limit of quantification (LOQ) of 27.70 nM. The Poly(DL‐PN)MGPE shows excellent reproducibility, antifouling nature, repeatability, and stability for the detection of RT. Also, the Poly(DL‐PN)MGPE analytical applicability was discussed for RT detection in citrus fruit juice samples.
Three Monohalogenated Aminopyrazines as Effective Corrosion Inhibitors for Carbon Steel in Acid Medium
Authors: Wang Shengwei , Wang Tianyi
Published: February 2023

A series of aminopyrazine derivatives were designed and synthesized for the development of effective inhibitors for Q235 steel corrosion in 1.0 M HCl solution, in which the monohalogenated aminopyrazine showed good inhibitive performance. The corrosion protection properties of the monohalogenated aminopyrazine, including 2‐amino‐5‐chloropyrazine (ACP), 2‐amino‐5‐bromopyrazine (ABP), and 2‐amino‐5‐iodopyrazine (AIP), were further investigated using weight‐loss test and electrochemical techniques. The results indicated the halogen‐substituted aminopyrazine have excellent inhibition performance, and these aminopyrazine derivatives act as mixed type inhibitors with predominant cathodic effectiveness. Adsorption of halogen‐substituted aminopyrazine on steel surface obeyed the Langmuir adsorption isotherm. The adsorption of the inhibitor molecules on steel surface was further supported by scanning electron microscope (SEM). The inhibition mechanism of the investigated monohalogenated aminopyrazine was derived using density functional theory (DFT) based quantum chemical calculations for their neutral as well as protonated forms. Both experimental and DFT studies suggested that the inhibition efficiency of three halogen‐substituted aminopyrazine followed the order of η(AIP)>η(ABP)>η(ACP).
Detection of H2S in Living Cells Using Escape Lysosome Technology Based on the Swelling Effect of Polymeric Nanomicelles
Authors: Zhang Yawen , Zhang Ling , Hao Yijie , Yang Hongna , Yin Jun , Zhou Min , Zhao Wenbo
Published: February 2023

The conventional fluorescent probe for sensitive detection of bioactive substance in living cells are still challenging due to the degradation and destruction of lysosomes to probes. Here, we develop a new method based on escape lysosome technology for detection of bioactive small molecules like hydrogen sulfide (H2S) in living cells. It relies on the swelling effect of polymeric nonomicelles. Specifically, PEG‐PEI/DP‐NBD complex probes were designed and prepared by integrating polyethyleneimine (PEI) and fluorescent probe dansylpiperazine nitrobenzo(c)‐(1,2,5) oxadiazole (DP‐NBD) into poly(ethylene glycol) (PEG) nanogel, which possessed lysosome‐escape ability based on swelling effect of PEG nanomicelles. Results indicate the probes we proposed can be used for sensitive tracking and long‐term visualization of H2S in living cells, and the detection limit of H2S is 0.1 μM. The multifunctional nanoprobes based on escape lysosome technology by help of swelling effect of polymeric micelles offers an important strategy for detecting bioactive substance in living cells.
Non‐Enzymatic Electrochemical Biosensor for Dopamine Detection Using MoS2/rGO/Ag Nanostructure
Authors: Mahanta Baishali , Al Mamun Hasan , Konwar Madhabi , Patar Shyamalee , Saikia Pranjal , Jyoti Borthakur Lakhya
Published: February 2023

Designing an ultra‐sensitive and stable sensor platform for real‐time sensing of dopamine (DA), ascorbic acid (AA) and uric acid (UA) is highly desirable. A simple, green and facile method of synthesis of Ag nanoparticle (AgNP) decorated MoS2/rGO nanocomposite for simultaneous electrochemical detection of DA, AA and UA is reported. The unique structural morphology imparts higher electrical conductivity and electrochemical sensitivity to the prepared nanocomposite. The modified electrode material exhibits superior electrocatalytic performance for the detection of DA within a wide linear range of 2.5 to 12.5 μм in presence of interfering electro‐active species AA and UA, with limit of detection (LOD) of 0.009 μм. The sensor exhibits excellent stability with up to 500 repetitive cycles of Cyclic Voltammetry. Chronoamperometry and Electrochemical Impedance reveal sufficient electrochemical stability to find potential diagnostic applications. This nanostructure can emerge as a promising electrode for the detection of DA and UA in human urine samples.
Gradient Strain‐Induced Room‐Temperature Ferroelectricity in Magnetic Double‐Perovskite Superlattices
Authors: Jiang Yaoxiang , Wu Xin , Niu Jianguo , Zhou Yunpeng , Jiang Ning , Guo Fei , Yang Bo , Zhao Shifeng
Published: February 2023

Single‐phase multiferroics suffer from a fundamental contradiction between polarity and magnetism in d0 electronic configuration, motivating studies of unconventional ferroelectricity in magnetic oxides. However, low critical temperature and polarization still need to be overcome. Here, it is reported that the switchable polarization behavior at room temperature in [(La2NiMnO6)/(La2CoMnO6)]n double‐perovskite magnetic superlattice films is achieved by engineering a microstructure with gradient strains, and the ferromagnetic Curie temperature did not show a rapid decrease. The synergy of gradient strains and superlattice components plays a decisive role in inducing ferroelectricity via the tilting or rotation of various oxygen octahedra. Such distortion responses to gradient strains are accompanied by slight magnetic fluctuations, maximizing the preservation of the initial magnetic exchange interactions, which alleviates the contradiction of multiferroic coexistence to a certain extent. This work confirms the room‐temperature ferroelectricity in double‐perovskite superlattices and provides a preferred strategy for confronting the difficulty of multiferroic coexistence in single‐phase materials.
Influence of Component Properties on the Photovoltaic Performance of Monolithic Perovskite/Organic Tandem Solar Cells: Sub‐Cell, Interconnecting Layer, and Photovoltaic Parameters
Authors: Xie Yue‐Min , Yao Qin , Yip Hin‐Lap , Cao Yong
Published: February 2023

Wide‐bandgap perovskite sub‐cells (WPSCs)‐based tandem solar cells attract considerable interest because of their capability to surpass the Shockley–Queisser limit. Monolithic perovskite/organic tandem solar cells (POTSCs) integrating WPSCs and small‐bandgap organic sub‐cells (SOSCs) are famous compositions owing to their simple fabrication method and compatibility with flexible devices. Most studies on POTSCs focus on enhancing device efficiency by modifying one or two of the device components (WPSCs, SOSCs, and interconnecting layers). The characteristics of POTSCs are not extensively investigated so far, especially in terms of the influence of the device structure and component properties on the tandem device photovoltaic performance. In this study, the existing p–i–n type WPSC‐based p–i–n POTSCs and n–i–p type WPSC‐based n–i–p POTSCs are reviewed and their advantages and limitations are highlighted. Furthermore, the influence of the tandem device component properties (optical, electrical, and photovoltaic properties) on the photovoltaic parameters (open‐circuit voltage, short‐circuit current density, fill factor, and power conversion efficiency) and the existing device modification methods are discussed to provide comprehensive guidance for the development of POTSCs.
Adhesion of batch hot-dip galvanized components
Authors: Abeln Björn , Pinger Thomas , Richter Carl , Feldmann Markus
Published: February 2023

Structural bonding of batch hot-dip galvanized components poses a particular challenge against the background of the build-up of the zinc coating in the form of different zinc-iron phases. As part of a research project, parameters influencing the zinc coating, the pre-treatment of the zinc substrate, and the adhesive were investigated with regard to the load-bearing capacity of a bonded joint. The variation of the zinc coatings was achieved by using four different steel grades in combination with four batch galvanizing processes. Therefore, small-scale, thick shear tensile specimens were uniformly fabricated, galvanized, bonded in pairs, and mechanically tested. A second series of tests was aimed at the feasibility of an adhesive bond of batch galvanized, medium-scale components under realistic boundary conditions. The test specimens were produced by varying the surface preparation and the adhesive and tested mechanically to shear failure. The results of both test series show that zinc-coated components can be adhesively bonded well and reliably, and, by this, a high load-bearing capacity can be achieved in the bonded joint. The small-scale tests clearly show that the type of zinc coating and its structure obviously have a significant influence on the load-bearing capacity. In summary, it can be stated that the relevant material and process-related influences on the shear load-bearing behavior of bonded joints of batch hot-dip galvanized components were demonstrated by means of the two test series, and the basis for implementing such joints on real load-bearing structures was laid. The presented procedure (small-scale tests and component tests) can be used as a suggestion for a later application in practice.
Behavioural drivers of ecotone exploitation: activity of groundwater animals in spring
Authors: Manenti Raoul , Galbiati Matteo , Lapadula Stefano , Forlani Martina , Barzaghi Benedetta , Melotto Andrea , Ficetola Gentile Francesco
Published: February 2023

Border habitats such as interfaces and ecotones are promising research targets being likely areas of high species richness and genetic and phenotypic diversity. Springs are intriguing habitats exploited by both subterranean and surface species. For subterranean species, springs can provide higher trophic resources but can be risky in terms of predation and UV radiation, while for surface species, springs can be safer but less productive environments. We coupled field surveys and laboratory experiments to understand how predation risk and physical constraints, like light occurrence, affect spring exploitation by both a subterranean (Niphargus thuringius) and a surface crustacean amphipod species (Echinogammarus stammeri). From March to May 2021, we surveyed multiple springs and evaluated the activity (both during day and night) of the amphipods and of their predators. Furthermore, in a subterranean laboratory, we reared 80N. thuringiusand 80E. stammeriunder safe and risky conditions with both constant darkness and diel light variation assessing their activity and survival. Risky conditions were represented by the occurrence of meso-predators alone or coupled with the presence of a top predator. In the field,N. thuringiusactivity was negatively related to the density of predators, while laboratory experiments revealed a main role played by light treatments and night period.E. stammeriactivity in the field was higher close to surface while in laboratory conditions decreased during time. In laboratory conditions, predation risk negatively affected survival of both amphipods. Our findings reveal that physical constraints play a key role in affecting the exploitation of ecotones and can mediate antipredator responses, thus providing selective pressures for the exploitation of border environments.

Significance statement

Understanding environmental pressures acting on ecotones is a key point to verify if new adaptations may occur at the border between two distinct habitats. Using both field and laboratory approaches, we show that, in springs, the behaviour of subterranean invertebrates is affected by surface physical constraints which can mediate the effects of predation risk. Behavioural strategies to avoid predation, such as nocturnal activity, may promote spring ecotone exploitation by groundwater animals, such as amphipod crustaceans.
Arketamine for cognitive impairment in psychiatric disorders
Authors: Hashimoto Kenji
Published: February 2023

Cognitive impairment has been observed in patients with various psychiatric disorders, including schizophrenia, major depressive disorder (MDD), and bipolar disorder (BD). Although modern therapeutic drugs can improve certain symptoms (i.e., psychosis, depression) in these patients, these drugs have not been found to improve cognitive impairment. The N-methyl-D-aspartate receptor antagonist (R,S)-ketamine has attracted attention as a rapidly acting antidepressant. In addition to its robust antidepressant effects, (R,S)-ketamine has been suggested to improve cognitive impairment in patients with MDD and BD, despite causing cognitive impairment in healthy control subjects. (R,S)-ketamine is a racemic mixture of equal amounts of (R)-ketamine (or arketamine) and (S)-ketamine (or esketamine). Arketamine has been found to have more potent antidepressant-like actions than esketamine in rodents. Interestingly, arketamine, but not esketamine, has been suggested to improve phencyclidine-induced cognitive deficits in mice. Furthermore, arketamine has been suggested to ameliorate cognitive deficits in rodent offspring after maternal immune activation. In the current article, it is proposed that arketamine has therapeutic potential for treating cognitive impairment in patients with psychiatric disorders. Additionally, the potential role of the gut–microbiome–brain axis in cognitive impairment in psychiatric disorders is discussed.
Impact of (forensic) expert opinions according to the Istanbul Protocol in Germany—results and insights of the in:Fo-project
Authors: Jühling M. , König L. M. , Gruber H. , Wolf V. , Ritz-Timme St. , Mayer F.
Published: February 2023

As part of a third-party funded project, expert opinions according to the Istanbul Protocol (IP) standards were compiled in Germany on a larger scale for the first time. The assessment process was initiated for 130 project participants. Statistical analysis on numerous variables was performed to test the impact of the expert opinions, foremost of the forensic medical expert opinions, on the individuals’ asylum proceedings. The variables were drawn from forensic medical expert opinions and reports of findings, questionnaires for the study participants’ counsellors in the project and a query on the asylum status of the study participants. Regression analysis and bivariate analysis on two dependent variables—subjective impact on the asylum procedure from the counsellors’ point of view and objective change in the asylum status—were performed to test for an influence on asylum procedures. No statistically significant results were obtained for the objective change of the study participants’ asylum status. For the subjective dependent variable, a positive prediction was possible when simultaneously controlling for the independent variables introduction of a forensic medical expert opinion and highest IP grade; a negative prediction was possible when simultaneously controlling for the independent variables introduction of a forensic medical expert opinion and use of IP grading. Apart from the statistical analysis, a positive effect of the assessment on the psychosocial well-being of the study participants could be demonstrated. The results differed from other European studies which demonstrated a correlation between the objective outcome of an asylum procedure (asylum status) and, for example, specific types of violence or the number of documented injuries. Differences also occurred in the use of the plausibility grades proposed by the IP, which questions their use in cases in which the reported torture happened a relevant time ago. Therefore, compiling individually worded evaluations instead of using the IP grading system—if possible, by an experienced forensic physician—is recommended in this scenario. Still, the assessment of alleged torture experiences should follow the IP guidelines, since psychological assessments are of especially high importance in cases with healed physical injuries and since the results also demonstrated a positive effect on the psychosocial well-being of the study participants.
The synergetic potential of Lactobacillus delbrueckii and Lactobacillus fermentum probiotics in alleviating the outcome of acute toxoplasmosis in mice
Authors: Almallah Tasneem M. , Khedr Safaa I. , El Nouby Kholoud A. , Younis Salwa S. , Elazeem Mona A. , Elmehy Dalia A.
Published: February 2023

Toxoplasmosis is an immunologically complex disease, particularly in immunocompromised patients. Although there are several therapeutic regimens for such disease, the majority of them have many drawbacks. Therefore, it is of utmost importance to improve the current regimen in an effort to achieve a well-tolerated therapy while also enhancing the host immune response. Famous for their immunomodulatory effect, Lactobacillus delbrueckii and Lactobacillus fermentum probiotics were chosen to be evaluated in this study as an adjuvant therapy against the virulent RH Toxoplasma gondii (T. gondii) strain. Experimental mice were divided into control and treated groups. The control group was further subdivided into two groups: group I: 10 uninfected mice and group II: 20 infected untreated mice. The treated experimental group was subdivided into three groups (20 mice each); group III: sulfamethoxazole-trimethoprim (SMZ-TMP) treated, group IV: probiotics treated, and group V: SMZ-TMP combined with probiotics. The results obtained revealed that combined therapy increased survival rate and time up to 95% and 16 days, respectively, with an 82% reduction of tachyzoites and marked distortion, as detected by the scanning electron microscope (SEM). Additionally, combined therapy alleviated the severity and the extent of the inflammatory cells’ infiltration, thereby reducing hepatocyte degeneration. Intriguingly, serum IF-γ level showed a significant increase to 155.92 ± 10.12 ng/L with combined therapy, reflecting the immunological role of the combined therapy. The current results revealed that probiotics have a high adjuvant potential in alleviating the impact of toxoplasmosis. Using probiotics as a synergistic treatment to modulate conventional therapy in systemic toxoplasmosis may gain popularity due to their low cost and current availability.
Radiographic measurements for the prediction of dysphagia after occipitocervical fusion: a systematic review
Authors: Tatter Charles , El-Hajj Victor Gabriel , Fletcher-Sandersjöö Alexander , Edström Erik , Elmi-Terander Adrian
Published: February 2023

Background

Occipitocervical fusion (OCF) is a procedure performed for multiple upper cervical pathologies. A common postprocedural complication of OCF is dysphagia, which has been linked to the narrowing of the pharyngeal space due to fixation in a hyper-flexed angle. Postoperative dysphagia is linked to reduced quality of life, prolonged hospital stay, aspiration pneumonia, and increased mortality. This has led to investigations of the association between sagittal radiographic angles and dysphagia following OCF.

Methods

A systematic review of the literature was performed to explore the current evidence regarding cervical sagittal radiographic measurements and dysphagia following OCF. A search strategy was carried out using the PubMed, Embase, and Web of Science databases from their dates of inception until August 2022. Only original English-language studies were considered. Moreover, studies had to include the correlation between dysphagia and at least one radiographic measurement in the sagittal plane.

Results

The search and subsequent selection process yielded eight studies that were included in the final review, totaling 329 patients in whom dysphagia had been assessed and graded. The dysphagia score by Bazaz et al. (Spine 27, 22:2453–2458, 2002) was used most often. The pooled incidence of dysphagia, in the early postoperative period, was estimated at 26.4%. At long-term follow-up (range: 17–72 months), about one-third of patients experienced resolution of symptoms, which resulted in a long-term post-OCF dysphagia incidence of 16.5%. Across the studies included, six different radiographic parameters were used to derive several measures which were repeatedly and significantly associated with the occurrence of dysphagia.

Conclusions

The high incidence of postoperative dysphagia following OCF warrants close monitoring of patients, especially in the short-term postoperative period. These patients may be assessed through standardized tools where the one by Bazaz et al. was the most commonly used. Moreover, there are several radiographic measurements that can be used to predict the occurrence of dysphagia. These findings may serve as a basis for strategies to prevent the occurrence of dysphagia after OCF.
Adjacent interacting masonry structures: shake table test blind prediction discrete element method simulation
Authors: Galvez F. , Dizhur D. , Ingham J. M.
Published: February 2023

This study presents the numerical simulation of a shake table experimental earthquake campaign of a building aggregate composed of two adjacent unreinforced rubble stone masonry buildings. The experimental testing was performed with the purpose of studying the interaction between a single-storey and a two-storey building connected with a dry joint consisting of a smooth mortared surface. Before performing the experimental testing, various research teams were sent the construction details to participate in a blind prediction competition using different prediction strategies. The approach reported herein to simulate the shake table tests is the discrete element method (DEM) with rigid elements and damage and deformation lumped in inter-block joints that represent the mortar interfaces governed by a non-linear Mohr–Coulomb constitutive laws. The material properties implemented in the model after calibrating using piers shear tests was observed unrealistically stiff. Hence, it was reduced based on the outcome of pushover and eigenvalue analyses. A sequence of earthquakes with incremental acceleration was input to the real and numerical models. Numerical overestimation of damage and displacement was observed probably due to underestimating the damping ratio. Unexpected sliding of the single-storey building occurred at early stages of the simulation. However, the overall behaviour in terms of base shear force, building displacement and damage progression was well captured in the DEM model. The in-plane flexural and rocking mechanism in the two-storey building was correctly simulated. Damage at the interface between the two buildings with separation and pounding was also reasonably well predicted.
Vertical Stacking Statistics of Multi-facies Object-Based Models
Authors: Manzocchi Tom , Walsh Deirdre A.
Published: February 2023

Equations describing facies proportions and amalgamation ratios are derived for randomly placed objects belonging to two or three foreground facies embedded in a background facies, as a function of the volume fractions and object thicknesses of independent facies models combined in a stratigraphically meaningful order. The equations are validated using one-dimensional continuum models. Evaluation of the equations reveals a simple relationship between an effective facies proportion and an effective amalgamation ratio, both measured as a function only of the facies in question and the background facies. This relationship provides a firm analytical basis for applying the compression algorithm to multi-facies object-based models. A set of two-dimensional cross-sectional models illustrates the approach, which allows models to be generated with realistic object stacking characteristics defined independently for each facies in a multi-facies object-based model.
Slaapdeprivatie in de vroege tienerjaren als voorspeller voor psychosociale problemen op 15- tot 16-jarige leeftijd bij Nederlandse jongeren
Authors: van Ham-Borawitz Veronique E. J. , Harskamp- van Ginkel Margreet W. , Vrijkotte Tanja G. M. , de Rooij Susanne R.
Published: February 2023

Samenvatting

Achtergrond: Er is onderzocht of slaapdeprivatie bij Nederlandse kinderen van 11 tot 12 jaar kan voorspellen of er op 15- tot 16-jarige leeftijd psychosociale problemen ontstaan.

Methode: De data betreffen 1.186 jongeren van het Amsterdam Born Children and their Development (ABCD)-onderzoek. Slaapdeprivatie werd gedefinieerd als een door ouders gerapporteerde slaapduur < 9 uur op 11- tot 12-jarige leeftijd. Kinderen met een verlengde slaapduur (> 12 uur) werden geëxcludeerd. Psychosociale problemen werden gemeten met de Strengths and Difficulties Questionnaire (SDQ), die jongeren zelf op 15- tot 16-jarige leeftijd invulden.

Resultaten: Er was een statistisch significant verband tussen slaapdeprivatie en verhoogde totale SDQ-score na correctie voor geslacht, migratieachtergrond, onderwijstype, aantal ingrijpende levensgebeurtenissen, gezinssituatie, financiële situatie en opleidingsniveau van de ouder (oddsratio 2,12 (95%-betrouwbaarheidsinterval 1,01–4,47; p = 0,048)). Dit verband was niet anders voor jongens en meisjes.

Conclusie: Slaapdeprivatie op 11- tot 12-jarige leeftijd lijkt een predictor te zijn voor psychosociale problemen op 15- tot 16-jarige leeftijd. Voor er een vertaalslag naar landelijke preventieprogramma’s kan worden gemaakt, is verder onderzoek nodig. Desondanks wijst dit onderzoek op de noodzaak om als zorgprofessional slaapproblemen en slaapduur actief bespreekbaar te maken. Goede begeleiding en advisering rond leeftijdsadequate slaapduur kan psychosociale problemen mogelijk voorkomen.
Harnessing plant resistance against Striga spp. parasitism in major cereal crops for enhanced crop production and food security in Sub-Saharan Africa: a review
Authors: Makaza William , En-nahli Youness , Amri Moez
Published: February 2023

Given their long-lasting seed viability, 15–20-year lifespan and their high seed production levels, a significant impact of parasitic plant Striga spp. on African food production is inevitable. Over the last decades, climate change has increasingly favoured the adaptability, spread and virulence of major Striga species, S. hermonthica and S. asiatica, across arable land in Sub-Saharan Africa (SSA). These parasitic weeds are causing important yield losses on several staple food crops and endangering food and nutritional security in many SSA countries. Losses caused by Striga spp. are amplified by low soil fertility and recurrent droughts. The impact of Striga parasitism has been characterized through different phenotypic and genotypic traits assessment of their host plants. Among all control strategies, host-plant resistance remains the most pro-poor, easy-to-adopt, sustainable and eco-friendly control strategy against Striga parasitism. This review highlights the impact of Striga parasitism on food security in SSA and reports recent results related to the genetic basis of different agronomic, pheno-physiological and biochemical traits associated with the resistance to Striga in major African cereal food crops.
Psychoacoustic characteristics of different brake creep groan classes and their subjective noise annoyance in vehicle and half-axle tests
Authors: Huemer-Kals Severin , Tóth Máté , Prezelj Jurij , Zacharczuk Martin , Fischer Peter , Häsler Karl
Published: February 2023

Brake creep groan is a severely annoying noise and vibration phenomenon. Especially on the Asian market, customer feedback about creep groan is common, indicating creep groan’s impact towards the quality impression of a car. Hence, treatment of these stick–slip-related creep groan phenomena is necessary. As numerous design conflicts exist for brake and axle, a complete mitigation of the phenomenon is often not possible. A reduction of creep groan’s annoyance by changing the noise’s level and characteristics is therefore typically aspired. One approach towards this goal could include the usage of psychoacoustics: This work deals with psychoacoustic characteristics of different creep groan classes. Low-frequency groan, high-frequency groan, and transition groan classes are compared regarding loudness, sharpness, roughness, fluctuation strength, and tonality. Standard statistic methods as well as machine learning approaches are applied on signals from vehicle tests and half-axle tests. Test results depict the different characteristics of each creep groan class. By mapping the results to the subjective rating of trained test drivers, the annoyance of different classes is compared. Low-frequency groan, dominated by longitudinal axle vibrations, is found to be least annoying. This low annoyance is best depicted by the psychoacoustic parameters loudness and roughness. Presented results allow an optimization of brake system design to reduce creep groan’s annoyance, leading to higher customer satisfaction and a more goal-oriented treatment of this NVH problem.
Claude Vivier
Authors: Gilmore Bob
Published: February 2023

In 1983, French-Canadian composer Claude Vivier was murdered in Paris at the age of thirty-four. Based on unrestricted access to Vivier's personal archives, this book is the first to tell his story.
Web-Based Psychosocial Interventions for Disaster-Related Distress: What Has Been Trialed in the Past, and What Can We Learn From This?
Authors: Korman Melissa B. , DeSouza Jordana , Ellis Janet
Published: February 2023

Objectives:

To summarize reports describing implementation and evaluation of Web-based psychosocial interventions for disaster-related distress with suggestions for future intervention and research, and to determine whether a systematic literature review on the topic is warranted.

Methods:

Systematic searches of Embase, PsycINFO, and MEDLINE were conducted. Duplicate entries were removed. Two rounds of inclusion/exclusion were conducted (abstract and full-text review). Relevant data were systematically charted by 2 reviewers.

Results:

The initial search identified 112 reports. Six reports, describing and evaluating 5 interventions, were included in a data analysis. Four of the 5 interventions were asynchronous and self-guided modular programs, with interactive components. The fifth was a short-term, online supportive group intervention. Studies utilized a variety of evaluation methods, and only 1 of 14 outcome measures used across the studies was utilized in more than 1 project.

Conclusions:

Several Web-based psychosocial interventions have been developed to target disaster-related distress, but few programs have been formally evaluated. A systematic review of the topic would not be recommended at this time due to heterogeneity in reported studies. Further research on factors impacting participation, generalizability, and methods of program delivery with consistent outcome measures is needed.
Using a Hybrid Approach to Increase the Impact of Medical Response to Natural Disasters
Authors: Levy Danielle M. , Kottler Jeffrey A. , Adams Jason W. , Crawford John R. , Levy Michael L.
Published: February 2023

The United Nations (UN) established an umbrella of organizations to manage distinct clusters of humanitarian aid. The World Health Organization (WHO) oversees the health cluster, giving it responsibility for global, national, and local medical responses to natural disasters. However, this centralized structure insufficiently engages local players, impeding robust local implementation. The Gorkha earthquake struck Nepal on April 25, 2015, becoming Nepal’s most severe natural disaster since the 1934 Nepal-Bihar earthquake. In coordinated response, 2 organizations, Empower Nepali Girls and International Neurosurgical Children’s Association, used a hybrid approach integrating continuous communication with local recipients. Each organization mobilized its principal resource strengths—material medical supplies or human capital—thereby efficiently deploying resources to maximize the impact of the medical response. In addition to efficient resource use, this approach facilitates dynamic medical responses from highly mobile organizations. Importantly, in addition to future earthquakes in Nepal, this medical response strategy is easily scalable to other natural disaster contexts and other medical relief organizations. Preemptively identifying partner organizations with complementary strengths, continuous engagement with recipient populations, and creating disaster- and region-specific response teams may represent viable variations of the WHO cluster model with greater efficacy in local implementation of treatment in acute disaster scenarios.
Age Management for the Common Good
Authors: Taylor Philip , Earl Catherine
Published: February 2023

In the aftermath of the COVID-19 pandemic and amid the present reconfiguring of corporate purpose, there is an opportunity to realign actions focused on prolonging working lives. We put forward a transformative agenda concerned with workforce ageing that aligns with contemporary expectations regarding sustainability, inequality, and emerging conceptualisations of management. In this article, the new concept of Common Good human resource management (HRM) is utilised as a potential means of encouraging business responses focused on grand challenges such as population ageing. We suggest how these principles might be applied to the issue of managing age in workplaces, to recast debate about issues of age and work, to be used as an advocacy tool encouraging employer engagement, while providing a framework that might direct organisational leadership.
External Threats and Public Opinion: The East Asian Security Environment and Japanese Views on the Nuclear Option
Authors: Matsumura Naoko , Tago Atsushi , Grieco Joseph M.
Published: February 2023

The Japanese public has been assumed to possess a deeply ingrained aversion toward the acquisition of nuclear weapons. We employ a survey experiment to ascertain whether this aversion is unconditional or may erode in the face of hypothetical deterioration in Japan's security situation, and in particular a hypothetical withdrawal of the US security-nuclear umbrella, increased North Korean nuclear weapons testing activities, and movement by South Korea toward the attainment of a nuclear arsenal. We find that the Japanese nuclear aversion may come under stress in the face of such developments. Additionally, we find that the elasticity of Japanese attitudes with respect to the nuclear option in the face of external security deterioration may be associated with an important individual-level demographic characteristic, namely, gender.
A transformer-based synthetic-inflow generator for spatially developing turbulent boundary layers
Authors: Yousif Mustafa Z. , Zhang Meng , Yu Linqi , Vinuesa Ricardo , Lim HeeChang
Published: February 2023

This study proposes a newly developed deep-learning-based method to generate turbulent inflow conditions for spatially developing turbulent boundary layer (TBL) simulations. A combination of a transformer and a multiscale-enhanced super-resolution generative adversarial network is utilised to predict velocity fields of a spatially developing TBL at various planes normal to the streamwise direction. Datasets of direct numerical simulation (DNS) of flat plate flow spanning a momentum thickness-based Reynolds number,

$Re_\theta = 661.5\unicode{x2013}1502.0$

, are used to train and test the model. The model shows a remarkable ability to predict the instantaneous velocity fields with detailed fluctuations and reproduce the turbulence statistics as well as spatial and temporal spectra with commendable accuracy as compared with the DNS results. The proposed model also exhibits a reasonable accuracy for predicting velocity fields at Reynolds numbers that are not used in the training process. With the aid of transfer learning, the computational cost of the proposed model is considered to be effectively low. Furthermore, applying the generated turbulent inflow conditions to an inflow–outflow simulation reveals a negligible development distance for the TBL to reach the target statistics. The results demonstrate for the first time that transformer-based models can be efficient in predicting the dynamics of turbulent flows. They also show that combining these models with generative adversarial networks-based models can be useful in tackling various turbulence-related problems, including the development of efficient synthetic-turbulent inflow generators.
Stability of hypersonic flow over a curved compression ramp
Authors: Cao Shibin , Hao Jiaao , Guo Peixu , Wen Chih-Yung , Klioutchnikov Igor
Published: February 2023

In this work, the stability of hypersonic flow over a curved compression ramp is studied using several stability analysis tools and direct numerical simulations (DNS). The free-stream Mach number and the unit Reynolds number are 7.7 and

$4.2 \times 10^6$

m

$^{-1}$

, respectively. Corner rounding is considered to alter the separation bubble flow so as to suppress the intrinsic instability of the compression-ramp flow. The variation of intrinsic instability is confirmed by global stability analysis. Subsequently, resolvent analysis is employed to examine the response of intrinsically stable flows to external disturbances. It is shown that the considered flows strongly amplify low-frequency streamwise streaks with a preferential spanwise wavelength. This result is verified using DNS by introducing a random forcing upstream of the separation point. Furthermore, both resolvent analysis and DNS demonstrate that the separation bubble contributes little to the selection of the spanwise wavelength of streamwise streaks. The combined effects of convective and intrinsic instabilities are also explored using DNS. A better agreement with experimental data is achieved after introducing upstream disturbances in an inherently unstable flow.
Whole-assembly flutter analysis of a low-pressure turbine blade
Authors: I. Sayma A. , Vahdati M. , Imregun M. , Green J. S.
Published: February 2023

This paper reports the findings of a flutter investigation on a low-pressure turbine blade using a 3D, non-linear, integrated aeroelasticity method. The approach has two important features: (i) the calculations are performed in a time-accurate and integrated fashion, whereby the structural and fluid domains are linked via an exchange of boundary conditions at each time step, and (ii) the analysis is performed on the entire bladed-disk assembly, thus removing the need to assume a critical vibration mode shape. Although such calculations are both CPU and in-core memory intensive, they do not require prior knowledge of the flutter mode and hence allow a better understanding of the aeroelasticity phenomena involved.

The flow is modelled inviscidly but the steady-state viscous effects are accounted for using a distributed loss model. The structural model was obtained from a standard finite element (FE) representation and a large number of assembly modes were included in the calculations. The study focused on three part-speed conditions at which a number of unstable modes were known to exist from the available experimental data. The whole assembly was modelled using about 664,000 mesh points and predictions were made of aeroelastic modal time histories. From these time histories it was possible to identify the forward and backward travelling waves and to deduce the unstable modes of vibration. The theoretical predictions were found to be in very good agreement with the experimental findings.
AASK — aircraft accident statistics and knowledge: a database of human experience in evacuation, derived from aviation accident reports
Authors: Owen M. , Galea E. R. , Lawrence P. J. , Filippidis L.
Published: February 2023

Computer based mathematical models describing the aircraft evacuation process have a vital role to play in aviation safety. However, such models have a heavy dependency on real evacuation data in order to (a) identify the key processes and factors associated with evacuation, (b) quantify variables and parameters associated with the identified factors/processes and finally (c) validate the models. The Fire Safety Engineering Group of the University of Greenwich is undertaking a large data extraction exercise from three major data sources in order to address these issues. This paper describes the extraction and application of data from one of these sources — aviation accident reports. To aid in the storage and analysis of the raw data, a computer database known as AASK (aircraft accident statistics and knowledge) is under development. AASK is being developed to store human observational and anecdotal data contained in accident reports and interview transcripts. AASK comprises four component sub-databases. These consist of the ACCIDENT (crash details), FLIGHT ATTENDANT (observations and actions of the flight attendants), FATALS (details concerning passenger fatalities) and PAX (observations and accounts from individual passengers) databases. AASK currently contains information from 25 survivable aviation accidents covering the period 4 April 1977 to 6 August 1995, involving some 2415 passengers, 2210 survivors, 205 fatalities and accounts from 669 people. In addition to aiding the development of aircraft evacuation models, AASK is also being used to challenge some of the myths which proliferate in the aviation safety industry such as, passenger exit selection during evacuation, nature and frequency of seat jumping, speed of passenger response and group dynamics. AASK can also be used to aid in the development of a more comprehensive approach to conducting post accident interviews, and will eventually be used to store the data directly.
Constrained, multipoint shape optimisation for complex 3D configurations
Authors: Elliott J. , Peraire J.
Published: February 2023

A method for performing three-dimensional, multipoint, lift-constrained drag minimisation for complex aircraft configurations is presented. Parameters representing the aircraft geometry are the design variables used in the solution of an optimisation problem. The compressible Euler equations for the flow are discretised on automatically generated unstructured meshes, and the sensitivities of the objective function and the constraints with respect to the design parameters are efficiently calculated using the discrete adjoint method. In addition, the solution algorithm has been parallelised making the approach feasible for practical applications. Several constrained minimisation strategies are discussed and some numerical tests are carried out for a lift-constrained, two-dimensional problem. The strategy found to work best is demonstrated for the three-dimensional optimisation of a wing-body configuration operating in transonic and supersonic conditions. It is concluded that Euler-based optimisation can be useful as a first step in the design process but that most applications involving transonic flows do require viscous flow modelling to avoid unrealistic pressure distributions.