bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Funding the present and the future: Drivers of NPO's financial sustainability
Authors: Ye Shihua , Gong Xiaochen
Published: July 2021

Despite the prominence of financial sustainability as a critical aspect of nonprofit organizations' self‐sustainability being widely recognized, the literature on the drivers of nonprofit financial sustainability is quite limited, particularly for quantitative empirical studies. To address the research gap, we first quantify nonprofit financial sustainability in a real sense, with financial indicators measured by the nexus of long‐term and short‐term, and then systematically examine to what extent the nature, nurture and environmental drivers help to explain financial sustainability. To be specific, by using national data compiled from the Research Infrastructure of Chinese Foundation during 2014 to 2016 and using Random Effect Logit Model, this study finds that foundations registered at the provincial level, being private ones, possessing larger size of total assets with diversified revenue sources, spending more on administration, and located in the more affluent areas are more likely to shape short‐term resilience to the unexpected economic shocks and meanwhile achieve long‐term success in maintaining or expanding services. This study contributes to a better understanding of nonprofit organizations' financial performance, which is beneficial for practitioners to adopt appropriate managerial practices and organizational strategies.
Superconvergence analysis of an energy stable scheme with three step backward differential formula‐finite element method for nonlinear reaction–diffusion equation
Authors: Wang Junjun
Published: July 2021

A three step backward differential formula scheme is proposed for nonlinear reaction–diffusion equation and superconvergence results are studied with Galerkin finite element method unconditionally. Energy stability is testified for the constructed scheme with an artificial term. Splitting technique is utilized to get rid of the ratio between the time step size and the subdivision parameter . Temporal error estimate in H2‐norm is derived, which leads to the boundedness of the solutions of the time‐discrete equations. Unconditional spatial error estimate in L2‐norm is deduced which help bound the numerical solutions in L∞‐norm. Superconvergent property of in H1‐norm with order is obtained by taking difference between two time levels of the error equations unconditionally. The global superconvergent property is deduced through the above results. Two numerical examples show the validity of the theoretical analysis.
The divergence‐free nonconforming virtual element method for the Navier–Stokes problem
Authors: Zhang Bei , Zhao Jikun , Li Meng
Published: July 2021

We present the divergence‐free nonconforming virtual element method for the Navier–Stokes problem. By using a gradient projection operator, we construct a nonconforming virtual element that allows us to compute the L2‐projection. The nonconforming virtual element provides the exact divergence‐free approximation to the velocity and is proved to be convergent with the optimal convergence rate. Finally, the numerical results are shown to confirm the convergence of the nonconforming virtual element.
The impact of pathological conditions on carbon and nitrogen isotopic values in the bone collagen of individuals with known biographic data and medical history
Authors: Drtikolová Kaupová Sylva , Cvrček Jan , Grossová Iva , Hadrava Jiří , Půtová Lenka , Velemínský Petr
Published: July 2021

This study aimed to refine our understanding of the extent to which chronic diseases with and without skeletal manifestation affect the isotopic values in bone collagen. Carbon and nitrogen isotopic values were measured in the ribs and femurs of 65 individuals from a documented skeletal collection (19th–21st centuries, Czech Republic). Statistically significant differences in both carbon and nitrogen isotopic values were found between particular families. There was a notable effect of the year of death on nitrogen isotopic values in ribs. Neither the presence of chronic disease in general nor the presence of carcinoma, age‐related physical debility, or tuberculosis had a significant impact on isotopic values. Cases of cancer with skeletal metastases however showed an increase of 1‰–1.5‰ in nitrogen isotopic values in (i) metastasis tissue, (ii) the healthy areas of bone affected by the metastasis, and (iii) the healthy rib bone. The results demonstrate that distinct dietary habits in particular families are the main driving force affecting the isotopic values in the sampled individuals. A minor but notable temporal shift in the nitrogen isotopic values of ribs may be linked to environmental and/or societal changes during the studied period. The observed increase in the nitrogen isotopic values of individuals with bone cancer metastases is in accordance with the state of cachexia and negative nitrogen balance. Despite the low number of cases, this result urges caution, as isotopic changes to the observed degree may significantly affect the dietary interpretation of the isotopic data.
Translating2019 ACSMCancer Exercise Recommendations for a Physiatric Practice: Derived Recommendations from an International Expert Panel
Authors: Parke Sara C. , Ng Amy , Martone Patrick , Gerber Lynn H. , Zucker David S. , Engle Jessica , Gupta Ekta , Power Katherine , Sokolof Jonas , Shahpar Samman , Bagay Leslie , Becker Bruce E. , Langelier David Michael
Published: July 2021

In 2018, the American College of Sports Medicine (ACSM) reconvened an international, multi‐disciplinary group of professionals to review pertinent published literature on exercise for people with cancer. The 2018 roundtable resulted in the publication of three articles in 2019. The three articles serve as an important update to the original ACSM Roundtable on Cancer, which convened in 2010. Although the focus of the three 2019 articles is on exercise, which is only one part of comprehensive cancer rehabilitation, the evidence presented in the 2019 ACSM articles has direct implications for physiatrists and other rehabilitation professionals who care for people with cancer. As such, the narrative review presented here has two primary objectives. First, we summarize the evidence within the three ACSM articles and interpret it within a familiar rehabilitation framework, namely the Dietz model of Cancer Rehabilitation, in order to facilitate implementation broadly within rehabilitation practice. Second, via expert consensus, we have tabulated relevant exercise recommendations for specific cancer populations at different points in the cancer care continuum and translated them into text, tables, and figures for ease of reference. Notably, the authors of this article are members of the Cancer Rehabilitation Physician Consortium (CRPC), a group of physicians who subspecialize in cancer rehabilitation medicine (CRM).
Ultrasound‐guided microinvasive trigger finger release technique using an 18‐gauge needle with a blade at the tip: A prospective study
Authors: Colberg Ricardo E. , Jurado Vélez Javier A. , Garrett William Hunter , Hart Karen , Fleisig Glenn S
Published: July 2021

Background

Open surgical trigger finger release has limited success and the risk of complications; however, percutaneous techniques offer a successful alternative. There is limited understanding of the success of percutaneous trigger finger release.

Objective

To prospectively evaluate the functional outcomes of patients with Green classification Grade 2 to 4 trigger finger treated with an ultrasound‐guided microinvasive trigger finger release using a special 18‐gauge needle with a blade at the tip.

Design

Prospective, case‐series study.

Setting

This study took place at an academic institution by one sports medicine physician (R.E.C.) with subspecialty training and certification in musculoskeletal ultrasound.

Patients

Sixty patients (79 cases) met criteria and agreed to participate in this study; 19 patients had multiple fingers treated. Average patient age was 62.8 years (SD 10.2). Average trigger finger severity diagnosis was Grade 3.

Interventions

Patients were treated with an ultrasound‐guided microinvasive trigger finger release using a special 18‐gauge needle with a blade at the tip.

Main Outcome Measurements

Quick Disabilities of the Arm, Shoulder, and Hand (QuickDASH), numerical rating scale (NRS), and Nirschl scores were captured preprocedure, at various time points, and at final follow‐up. Changes between preprocedure and final follow‐up were analyzed by paired t test (p < .05). Differences were also analyzed between finger, grade level, and gender by repeated measures analyses of variance (p < .05).

Results

No adverse events were documented perioperatively or postoperatively. Average follow‐up time was 18.4 months (SD 4.6). At final follow‐up, 100% of patients reported no recurrence of catching/locking, 97% had complete resolution of symptoms and significant improvement in QuickDASH scores, and 99% required no further treatment. All measurements showed a decrease in pain and symptoms over time. The improvements in QuickDASH score, NRS, and Nirschl scale and the resolution of mechanical symptoms were all statistically significant.

Conclusions

Ultrasound‐guided release using the 18‐gauge needle with a blade provides significant functional improvement and full resolution of mechanical symptoms with minimal adverse events.
Sulfonated poly(styrene‐isobutylene‐styrene) grafted with hexyl‐ and butyl‐imidazolium chloride ionic liquids
Authors: Barrios‐Tarazona Karen , Suleiman David
Published: July 2021

In this work, novel sulfonated poly(ionic liquid)s block‐copolymers based on poly(styrene–isobutylene–styrene) (SIBS) are synthesized for chemical protective clothing (CPC) applications. The synthesis consists of the chloromethylation of SIBS, followed by the incorporation of N‐alkylimidazole through chemical grafting, and concluding with sulfonation of the resulting compound. Properties of the membranes are determined as a function of different N‐alkylimidazoles (butylimidazole and hexylimidazole) and sulfonation levels (7–23 mol%). Results show that the incorporation of imidazole and sulfonic groups increases the thermal stability of SIBS as well as its water absorption capabilities. The interaction between the ionic moieties in the polymeric matrix allows the formation of hydrophilic nanochannels, which promote the transport of permeants through the membrane. The high water vapor transmission rate (above 2000 g m−2 day−1) and values of selectivity (~50) demonstrate that the breathability of the synthesized membrane is improved while blocking the passage of dimethyl methylphosphonate (simulant of agent Sarin). The above mentioned observations suggest that sulfonated SIBS‐PIL's membranes are potential materials for CPC applications.
Addition copolymerization of norbornene lactone catalyzed by Pd complexes
Authors: Isaji Kosuke , Matsuoka Shin‐ichi , Suzuki Masato
Published: July 2021

The addition copolymerization of norbornene (NB) with functionalized monomers can lead to the modification of physical properties of poly(NB). Herein, the synthesis of new copolymer of NB with exo‐norbornene lactone (exo‐NBL) is reported. The copolymerization proceeded by four Pd catalytic systems, and of these, Pd(allyl)IDippCl/AgSbF6 (IDipp = 1,3‐bis[2,6‐diisopropylphenyl]imidazolin‐2‐ylidene)) was the most effective for the incorporation of exo‐NBL. Specifically, the copolymerization with exo‐NBL/NB feed ratio of 50/50 at r.t. by 0.1 mol% of the Pd catalyst produced poly(NB‐co‐exo‐NBL) with Mn of 87,000, and Mw/Mn of 1.2 in 40% yield, incorporating exo‐NBL of 18 mol%. The time–conversion plots and 1H diffusion ordered spectroscopy (DOSY) NMR analysis of the copolymer suggest that it has a random sequence. In contrast, no copolymer was formed from endo‐NBL. This is because of steric hindrance of the endo‐lactone moiety by considering the (co)polymerization of endo‐5‐norbornene‐2‐carboxylic acid methyl ester (endo‐NBCO2Me). The incorporation of exo‐NBL improves the solubility of poly(NB‐co‐exo‐NBL) in several chlorinated solvents and gives high thermal stability with 10% weight loss at a temperature of more than 400°C. Two amorphous halos corresponding to intra‐ and interchain distances were observed in the WAXD patterns, allowing to calculate d‐spacing values, which are higher than that of poly(NB).
Development of the Anxiety, Depression and Coping (ADAF) screening tool for emotional and coping problems in cancer patients
Authors: Pérez‐Segura Pedro , Enrech Francés Santos , Juez Martel Ignacio , Pérez Escutia Maria Angeles , Hernández Agudo Elena , Leon Leticia , Corradi Guido , Olivera Pérez‐Frade Helena , Sánchez Escamilla Francisco , Baselga López Marta , Baquero Jose Luis , Redondo Delgado Marta
Published: July 2021

Objective

Clinical guidelines recommend psychological screening in cancer patients. However, most scales cover many items and hamper detection. In addition, patients are generally referred from routine consultations. The specific objective of the present study was to develop and validate a tool, Anxiety, Depression, Coping (ADAF), to screen for anxiety and depression and assess coping in cancer patients.

Methods

Cross‐sectional, multicenter study performed in the medical and radiotherapy‐oncology services of five hospitals in Madrid and coordinated by the Medical Oncology Service of Hospital Clínico San Carlos (CEIC nº19/265‐E). To determine psychometric properties, the ADAF screening questionnaire ADAF was administered. ADAF includes five items (1 related to anxiety symptoms, 2 related to depressive symptoms, 1 for helplessness coping, and 1 for avoidance coping). Hospital Anxiety and Depression Scale and Mini‐Mental Adjustment to Cancer scale were used as the gold standards. Intraclass correlation coefficients were calculated and receiver operating characteristic (ROC) curves constructed. A p value of <0.05 was considered significant.

Results

A total of 186 patients completed the evaluation. The correlation coefficients were significant for all dimensions (anxiety, depression, helplessness coping, and avoidance coping) (p < 0.001). The statistical analysis of the ROC curves suggested that the cut‐off point for screening was >2 points (3 in the case of depression), with a sensitivity and specificity between 62% and 90%, and an area under the curve above 0.8 for the first 4 items.

Conclusions

ADAF screening has adequate reliability and good sensitivity and specificity. This instrument is useful and can be easily applied to identify emotional and coping problems in cancer patients.
Efficacy and safety of surfactant administration via thin catheter in preterm infants with neonatal respiratory distress syndrome: A systematic review and meta‐analysis
Authors: Wu Xiaohong , Feng Zhoushan , Kong Juan , Lai Yiyu , Jia Chunhong , Xu Zhanyuan , Wu Fan , Cui Qiliang , Chen Yaoyong
Published: July 2021

Objective

The efficacy and safety of surfactant administration via thin catheter in preterm infants with neonatal respiratory distress syndrome (NRDS) was investigated.

Methods

PubMed, Embase, Cochrane Library, and Web of Science databases were searched to identify randomized controlled trials (RCTs) that comparing thin catheter technique with intubation for surfactant delivery in preterm infants with NRDS.

Results

Thirteen RCTs (1931 infants) were included in the meta‐analysis. The use of thin catheter technique decreased the incidences of bronchopulmonary dysplasia (BPD), pneumothorax, and hemodynamically significant patent ductus arteriosus (hsPDA) (risk ratio [RR]: 0.59, 95% confidence interval [CI]: 0.46–0.75, p < .0001; RR: 0.60, 95% CI: 0.39–0.93, p = .02 and RR: 0.88, 95% CI: 0.78–1.00, p = .04, respectively). In addition, infants in the intervention group required less mechanical ventilation within 72 h of life or during hospitalization (RR: 0.60, 95% CI: 0.48–0.75, p < .00001 and RR: 0.64, 95% CI: 0.49–0.82, p = .0005, respectively) compared with infants in the control group. However, the rate of surfactant reflux was higher in the intervention group than that in the control group (RR: 2.12, 95% CI: 1.37–3.29, p = .0008). There were no significant differences in mortality and other outcomes between the two groups.

Conclusion

The administration of surfactant via thin catheter could lower the requirement for mechanical ventilation, and decrease the incidence of BPD, pneumothorax, and hsPDA.
Constructing Ni3C/2D g‐C3N4 Photocatalyst and the Internal Catalytic Mechanism Study
Authors: Chen Hanxiang , Yuan Junjie , Yang Wenshu , Yu Yahui , Song Yanhua , She Yuanbin , Chen Zhigang , Zhu Xianglin , Li Huaming , Xu Hui
Published: July 2021

Developing efficient, highly stable, and cheap photocatalysts are the keys to the industrial application of photocatalytic techniques. For the photocatalytic reactions, how to promote the separating of photogenerated carriers and construct active sites are crucial challenges. Herein, Ni3C nanoparticles are loaded on 2D g‐C3N4 as electron‐transferring centers. The mechanism of interface charge transfer in the photocatalytic reactions is studied. Benefited from the formed Schottky junction and the special activation effect of Ni3C, Ni3C/2D g‐C3N4 owns better separation efficiency of carriers and more active sites to produce ⋅O2− and ⋅OH species, which can enhance the photocatalytic activity. Finally, a highest rate of 90.3% for rhodamine B (Rh B) degradation is realized by the optimal proportion of Ni3C/2D g‐C3N4. In addition, the increased photocurrent intensity and stronger signals of active species of Ni3C/2D g‐C3N4 indicate the dual functions of Ni3C in both promoting the separation of carriers and the production of the active oxidation species.
The Features of Infrared Absorption of Boron‐Doped Silicon
Authors: Khirunenko Lyudmila , Sosnin Mikhail , Duvanskii Andrei , Abrosimov Nikolai , Riemann Helge
Published: July 2021

Herein, the influence of heat treatment at 400 °C on the spectrum of boron intracenter transitions in silicon using IR absorption spectroscopy is investigated. In the transition region from the ground 1Γ8+ state associated with the p3/2 valence band of Si to the odd‐parity excited states of boron, a new absorption line with its maximum at 261.3 cm−1 is observed in the thermally treated boron‐doped Cz‐Si. Oxygen is a component of defect that is responsible for the detected absorption line. Perturbation of boron atoms due to the inhomogeneous stress effect from neighboring oxygen atoms results in a frequency shift in the main boron transition. The defect associated with 261.3 cm−1 line is also observed in as‐grown silicon. The defect disappears during annealing at 550 °C. The concentration of defects and binding energy of the 1Γ8+ ground state are estimated assuming that the line observed belongs to the transition of boron 1Γ8+ → 2Γ8−, subjected to the perturbation from a neighboring oxygen atom.
Influences of Oxygen Plasma Posttreatment on Electrical Characteristics of Amorphous Indium–Gallium–Zinc–Oxide Thin‐Film Transistors
Authors: Lee Jae-Yun , Tarsoly Gergely , Choi Seung-Gon , Ryu Heung-Gyoon , Kim Sung-Jin
Published: July 2021

A thin‐film transistor (TFT) using amorphous indium–gallium–zinc oxide (a‐IGZO) as an active layer is annealed at 300 °C after deposition and then treated with oxygen plasma. To analyze the effect of radio frequency (RF) power of the plasma generator on the a‐IGZO TFT, as‐deposited and plasma‐treated devices using RF power levels of 60, 120, and 180 W are fabricated and characterized. It is demonstrated that the RF power setting of the plasma generator influences the threshold voltage (V
th), electron mobility, on/off current ratio and subthreshold swing of the devices alongside the transmittance and absorption coefficient of the a‐IGZO layer. The a‐IGZO TFT with oxygen plasma treatment at 60 W shows the best performance with a V
th of 0.4 V, electron mobility of 14.8 cm2 V−1 s−1, an on/off current ratio of 4.8 × 108, and a subthreshold swing of 0.6 V dec−1. In addition, compared to the as‐deposited device, the bandgap widens from 3.65 to 3.72 eV, and the absorption coefficient of the 2.0–3.7 eV energy range decreases, which is due to the decreased density of tail states, and that improves electron mobility. When the RF power applied in the oxygen plasma treatment is increased to 120 and 180 W, the optical, electrical, and surface characteristics deteriorate.
Al‐neal Degrades Al2O3 Passivation of Silicon Surface
Authors: Setälä Olli E. , Pasanen Toni P. , Ott Jennifer , Vähänissi Ville , Savin Hele
Published: July 2021

Atomic layer deposited (ALD) aluminum oxide (Al2O3) has emerged as a useful material for silicon devices due to its capability for effective surface passivation and ability to generate p+ region underneath the oxide as active or passive component in semiconductor devices. However, it is uncertain how Al2O3 films tolerate the so‐called Al‐neal treatment that is a necessary process step in devices that also contain silicon dioxide (SiO2) passivation layers. Herein, it is reported that the Al‐neal process is harmful for the passivation performance of Al2O3 causing over eightfold increase in surface recombination velocity (SRV) (from 0.9 to 7.3 cm s−1). Interestingly, it is also observed that the stage at which the so‐called activation of Al2O3 passivation is performed impacts the final degradation strength. The best result is obtained when the activation step is done at the end of the process together with the Al‐neal thermal treatment, which results in SRV of 1.7 cm s−1. The results correlate well with the measured interface defect density, indicating that the Al‐neal affects defects at the Si/SiO
x
/Al2O3 interface. The root causes for the defect reactions are discussed and possible reasons for the observed phenomena are suggested.
Spin‐Polarization and Resonant States in Electronic Conduction through a Correlated Magnetic Layer
Authors: Weh Andreas , Appelt Wilhelm H. , Östlin Andreas , Chioncel Liviu , Eckern Ulrich
Published: July 2021

The transmission through a magnetic layer of correlated electrons sandwiched between noninteracting normal‐metal leads is studied within model calculations. The linear regime in the framework of the Meir–Wingreen formalism is considered, according to which the transmission can be interpreted as the overlap of the spectral function of the surface layer of the leads with that of the central region. By analyzing these spectral functions, it is shown that a change in the coupling parameter between the leads and the central region significantly and nontrivially affects the conductance. The role of band structure effects for the transmission is clarified. For a strong coupling between the leads and the central layer, high‐intensity localized states are formed outside the overlapping bands, while for weaker coupling this high‐intensity spectral weight is formed within the leads’ continuum band around the Fermi energy. A local Coulomb interaction in the central region modifies the high‐intensity states, and therefore the transmission. For the present setup, the major effect of the local interaction consists in shifts of the band structure because any sharp features are weakened due to the macroscopic extension of the layers.
Effect of heat‐sealing parameters on the thermal profile and seal strength of multilayer films and non‐woven
Authors: Ponnambalam Divya , Lim Loong Tak , Manickavasagan Annamalai , Yucheng Fu
Published: July 2021

Heat sealing is one of the most common techniques for sealing food packages. In this study, the effects of sealer parameters such as dwell time (0.5–2 s), jaw temperature (225–250°C) and pressure (69–345 KPa) and the seal contaminants (coffee particles [0.70–0.85 mm]) were studied on polymer materials used in coffee capsules: (1) lidding, poly(ethylene terephthalate) (PET)/Al/linear low‐density poly(ethylene) (LLDPE); (2) wall, polystyrene (PS)/ethylene‐vinyl alcohol copolymer (EVOH)/PS; and non‐woven filter, NW1 (mono‐component fibre) or NW2 (bicomponent fibre [core/sheath]). The presence of NW1 and NW2 non‐woven in the seal structures decreased the interfacial temperature by 5°C and 11°C, respectively in comparison to seal structures without non‐woven. The degradation of the seal bonding caused a decline in the seal strength at elevated temperature (NW: >240°C without NW: >235°C) and longer dwell time (NW: >1 s, without NW: >1.5 s). The core and sheath structure of NW2 (969 N/mm) was responsible for higher seal strength in comparison to NW1 and without NW, as the core remained intact during the sealing, increasing the material strength. The minimum pressure of 207 KPa was required for creating enough contact between films to achieve proper sealing. The coffee particles buried under the opaque layer of lidding films created visible thermal artefacts when observed under thermal camera. The contaminated region differed by 30–38°C from the surrounding sound region after cooling for 3.5 s. The seal strength was stronger when a single coffee particle was in the middle compared to a sample with multiple particles.
Face index of nanotubes and regular hexagonal lattices
Authors: Ding Sheng , Qureshi Muhammad Imran , Shah Syed Fehmeed , Fahad Asfand , Jamil Muhammad Kamran , Liu Jia‐Bao
Published: July 2021

The interdependency of the molecular structures of drugs and their biomedical characteristics have already been proved by lab experiments. We can approximate these characteristics by computing numerical invariants associated to their molecular structures. These invariants are called topological indices. Among many topological indices, the face index (FI) is defined most recently. The FI may be helpful in approximating the boiling point andπ‐electron energy of benzenoid hydrocarbons and some other drugs with the correlation coefficient. In this article, we compute the FI for Boron triangular nanotubes, the nanotubesand, Also compute the FI for quadrilateral sections cut from regular hexagonal latticeand.
Transmission Spectroscopy of Molecular Spin Ensembles in the Dispersive Regime
Authors: Bonizzoni Claudio , Ghirri Alberto , Nakazawa Shigeaki , Nishida Shinsuke , Sato Kazunobu , Takui Takeji , Affronte Marco
Published: July 2021

The readout in the dispersive regime is originally developed—and it is now largely exploited—for non‐demolitive measurement of super‐ and semiconducting qubits. More recently it has been successfully applied to probe collective spin excitations in ferro(i)magnetic bulk samples or collections of paramagnetic spin centers embedded into microwave cavities. The use of this readout technique within a semiclassical limit of excitation is only marginally investigated although it holds for a wide class of problems, including advanced magnetic resonance techniques. In this work, the coupling between a coplanar microwave resonator and diphenyl‐nitroxide organic radical diluted in a fully deuterated benzophenone single crystal is investigated. Two‐tone transmission spectroscopy experiments demonstrate the possibility to reconstruct the spectrum of the spin system with little loss of sensitivity with respect to the resonant regime. Likewise, pulse sequences of detuned microwave frequency allow the measurement of the spin‐lattice relaxation time (T1). The independent tunability of the probe and the drive power enables one to adjust the signal‐to‐noise ratio of the spectroscopy. These results suggest that electron spin dispersive spectroscopy can be used as a complementary tool of electron spin resonance to investigate the spin response.
Estimating the cover of Phragmites australis using unmanned aerial vehicles and neural networks in a semi‐arid wetland
Authors: Higgisson William , Cobb Adrian , Tschierschke Alica , Dyer Fiona
Published: July 2021

Unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) provide high‐spatial‐resolution imagery and allow the collection of data in locations or periods of time where field‐based data collection is challenging or impossible, such as in wetlands and floodplains. Computational deep learning techniques are transforming the way in which remotely sensed imagery and data can be used and are having an increasing role in remote sensing. Here, we describe a method using UAV and machine learning technique convolutional neural networks (CNNs) to estimate the cover of wetland features Phragmites australis reeds, leaf litter, water, bareground, and other vegetation in a large inland floodplain wetland in Western New South Wales (NSW), Australia. We firstly describe the process we took to train, validate, and test the model. We describe the model's performance by calculating a range of performance indicators and provide density maps and results from individual sites. The model had an overall accuracy of 0.947 and recognized and estimated Phragmites australis reeds to a very high accuracy (>98%). Here, we show an effective, accurate, and reproducible way to estimate the cover of Phragmites australis reeds and other wetland features using UAV and CNNs in a semi‐arid wetland.
Prodrugs for Nitroreductase Based Cancer Therapy‐5: Development of Trinitroaniline Prodrugs/Ssap‐NtrB Combinations for Liver Cancer Using Intracellular and Extracellular Conditions
Authors: Hacıoğlu Nelin , Güngör Tuğba , Tokay Esra , Gülhan Ünzile Güven , Çelik Ayhan , Ay Mehmet , Köçkar Feray
Published: July 2021

In this study, a series of trinitroaniline derivatives (TNA1‐8) were synthesized and investigated as potential antitumor agents for enzyme‐prodrug therapy. Enzymatic efficiency of Ssap‐NtrB on prodrug candidates was determined with HPLC analysis and kinetic studies. The anti‐proliferative properties of compounds were determined against four cancer cell lines (Hep3B, PC3, HT‐29, and Saos‐2) and a healthy cell line (HUVEC) via MTT assay. Intracellular and extracellular prodrug‐enzyme treatments were carried out on Hep3B cells. Herewith, the expression of the Ssap‐NtrB gene was confirmed with this study. IC50 values of piperidine and 1,3‐cyclohexyl derivatives (TNA4 and TNA7) were identified as 1.724 nM and 1.640 nM at extracellular conditions. In intracellular conditions, it was determined as 0.293 μM and 0.393 μM, respectively. In summary, 2,4,6‐trinitroaniline derivatives, especially compounds TNA4 and TNA7 might be used as prodrug candidates along with Ssap‐NtrB for hepatocellular carcinoma therapy and the development of new prodrugs at cancer treatments.
Encapsulation of 5‐Fluorouracil Treated Reduced Graphene Oxide in Sodium Alginate Matrix for Controlled and pH‐Responsive Drug Delivery
Authors: Boddu Adilakshmi , Obireddy Sreekanth Reddy , Subbarao Subha Marata Chinna , Rao Kummara Madhusudana , Venkata Krishna Rao Kummari Subba
Published: July 2021

The present work encompasses the fabrication of sodium alginate microbeads embedded with 5‐fluorouracil (5‐FU)/reduced graphene oxide (rGO) for pH‐responsive drug delivery. Initially, 5‐FU is treated with rGO and then encapsulated with an alginate matrix by a simple ionotropic gelation technique with different cross‐linking agents for the controlled release of 5‐FU. The resultant beads were characterized by Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR), X‐ray diffraction (XRD) analysis, differential scanning calorimetry (DSC), thermogravimetric analysis (TGA) and scanning electron microscopy (SEM). Besides, swelling andin vitrodrug release studies were also carried out at pH 1.2, 5.4, and 6.8 at 37 °C. The presence of rGO in the alginate matrix could greatly enhance the 5‐FU loading and accomplish sustained release of 5‐FU. The presence of Mg2+ions in the alginate matrix could greatly affect the swelling and release rate. The anticancer activity of the alginate beads was assessed using an MTT assay against MCF‐7 cells. The results findings that the developed alginate beads are probably to be effective drug carriers for drug delivery applications.
Ultrasonic Assisted Facile Synthesis of N‐Arylamides Using Nitriles and 1‐Aryltriazenes Precursors Promoted by Brønsted Acidic Ionic Liquid under Metal‐Free Conditions
Authors: Sutar Suraj M. , Kalkhambkar Rajesh G.
Published: July 2021

Ultrasonic assisted rapid and eco‐friendly synthesis of an array of N‐aryl amides is accomplished in good to better yields employing Brønsted acidic ionic liquid as promoter. The similar reaction also progressed under conventional mode of heating,but at relatively slower rate. Structurally varied 1‐aryltriazenes and aliphatic/aromatic nitriles are evaluated in this metal‐free approach and demonstrate the versatility of this protocol. A better functional group tolerance, mild reaction conditions, ultrasonic assistance, short reaction time, reuse and recycle of Brønsted acidic ionic liquid makes this method more practical and efficient to the existing methods.
Modulating Local Charge Distribution of Carbon Nitride for Promoting Exciton Dissociation and Charge‐Induced Reactions
Authors: Chen Guang , Zhang Zi‐Dan , Liao Ya‐Xian , Zhang Ze , You Ye‐Zi
Published: July 2021

The sustainable light can generate reduction and oxidation centers in situ through the generation of photoexcited electrons and holes in the presence of photocatalyst. However, the photoexcited electrons and holes have huge Coulombic attraction and high exciton binding energy due to the weak screening effect and dielectric properties in many low‐dimensional conjugated polymers, such as carbon nitride. Reducing the exciton binding energy of carbon nitride and promoting the conversion of excitons into free charge carriers are necessary for improving the activity of photocatalytic reactions but still very challenging. Here, by introducing amino‐cyano functional groups into carbon nitride, it is demonstrated that excitons can be effectively dissociated into electrons and holes by finely controlling the charge distribution of heptazine ring. It is found that carbon nitride with heptazine rings of positive charge distribution can greatly reduce the exciton binding energy to 24 from 71 meV. Compared with heptazine ring having negative charge distribution, heptazine ring with positive charge distribution can increase photocatalytic hydrogen production of carbon nitride by up to ten times. This work provides an easy way to promote the dissociation of excitons in carbon nitride by regulating the charge distribution.
Critical Role of Ti4+ in Stabilizing High‐Voltage Redox Reactions in Li‐Rich Layered Material
Authors: Cho Moses , Song Seok Hyun , Hong Seokjae , Kim Kyoung Sun , Avdeev Maxim , Yoo Jong‐Gyu , Ko Kyung‐Tae , Hong Jihyun , Kim Jongsoon , Lee Seongsu , Kim Hyungsub
Published: July 2021

Li‐rich layered oxide materials are considered promising candidates for high‐capacity cathodes for battery applications and improving the reversibility of the anionic redox reaction is the key to exploiting the full capacity of these materials. However, permanent structural change of the electrode occurring upon electrochemical cycling results in capacity and voltage decay. In view of these factors, Ti4+‐substituted Li2IrO3 (Li2Ir0.75Ti0.25O3) is synthesized, which undergoes an oxygen redox reaction with suppressed voltage decay, yielding improved electrochemical performance and good capacity retention. It is shown that the increased bond covalency upon Ti4+ substitution results in structural stability, tuning the phase stability from O3 to O1′ upon de‐lithiation during charging compared with O3 to T3 and O1 for pristine Li2IrO3, thereby facilitating the oxidation of oxygen. This work unravels the role of Ti4+ in stabilizing the cathode framework, providing insight for a fundamental design approach for advanced Li‐rich layered oxide battery materials.
Doped Vertical Organic Field‐Effect Transistors Demonstrating Superior Bias‐Stress Stability
Authors: Qiu Xincan , Guo Jing , Chen Ping‐An , Chen Kaixuan , Liu Yu , Ma Chao , Chen Huajie , Hu Yuanyuan
Published: July 2021

Bias‐stress stability is essential to the practical applications of organic field‐effect transistors (OFETs), yet it remains a challenge issue in conventional planar OFETs. Here, the feasibility of achieving high bias‐stress stability in vertical structured OFETs (VOFETs) in combination with doping techniques is demonstrated. VOFETs with silver nanowires as source electrodes are fabricated and the device performance is optimized by understanding the influence of device parameters on performance. Then, the bias‐stress stability of the optimized PDVT‐10 VOFETs is investigated and found to be superior to the corresponding planar OFETs, which is attributed to reduced trapping effects of gate dielectrics in the VOFETs. Moreover, the bias‐stress stability can be further improved by doping PDVT‐10 to passivate bulk traps. Consequently, the characteristic time of doped PDVT‐10 VOFETs extracted from stretched exponential equation is found to be over four times larger than that of the planar PDVT‐10 OFETs under the same bias‐stress conditions. These results present the promising applications of VOFETs as well as an effective strategy to achieve highly bias‐stress stable OFETs.
Solvent‐Mediated Shell Dimension Reconstruction of Core@Shell PdAu@Pd Nanocrystals for Robust C1 and C2 Alcohol Electrocatalysis
Authors: Gao Fei , Zhang Yangping , You Huaming , Li Zhuolin , Zou Bin , Du Yukou
Published: July 2021

The core@shell structure dimension of the Pd‐based nanocrystals deeply impacts their catalytic properties for C1 and C2 alcohol oxidation reactions. However, the precise simultaneous control on the synthesis of core@shell nanocrystals with different shell dimensions is difficult, and most synthesis on Pd‐based core@shell nanocatalysts involves the surfactants participation by multiple steps, thus leads to limited catalytic properties. Herein, for the first time, a facile one‐step surfactant‐free strategy is developed for shell dimension reconstruction of PdAu@Pd core@shell nanocrystals by altering volume ratios of mixed solvents. The Pd‐based sunflower‐like (SL) and coral grass‐like (CGL) nanocrystals are obtained with different 2D hexagonal nanosheet assembles and 3D network shells, respectively. Benefitting from the clean surface shell of 2D ultrathin nanosheets structure, high atom utilization efficiency, and robust electronic effect. The PdAu@Pd SL achieves the ascendant methanol/ethanol/ethylene glycol oxidation reaction (MOR/EOR/EGOR) activities, much higher than Pd/C catalysts, as well as the improved antipoisoning ability. Notably, this one‐step construction shell dimension of PdAu@Pd core@shell catalysts not only provide a significant reference for the improvement of surfactant‐free synthetic routes, but also shed light on the advanced engineering on shell dimensions in core@shell nanostructures for electrocatalysis and so forth.
An Innovative Way to Turn Catalyst into Substrate for Highly Efficient Water Splitting
Authors: Kim Hye Ri , Lee Gahyeon , Nam Gyeong Duk , Kim Dongyoung , Joo Jong Hoon
Published: July 2021

The energy‐efficiency loss with high overpotential during hydrogen evolution reaction (HER) and oxygen evolution reaction (OER), as well as economic inefficiencies including high‐cost materials and complicated processes, is considered the major challenge to the implementation of electrochemical water splitting applications. The authors present a new platform for electrocatalysts that functions in an unprecedented way to turn a catalyst into substrate. The NiFe alloy catalyzed substrate (NiFe‐CS) described herein is substantially active and stable electrocatalyst for both HER and OER, with low overpotential of 33 and 191 mV at 10 mA cm−2 for HER and OER, respectively. This structure enables not only the maximization of electrochemically active sites, but also the formation of hydroxyl species on the surface as the active phase. These outstanding results provide a new pathway for the development of electrocatalysts used in energy conversion technology.
Stochastic and Age‐Dependent Proteostasis Decline Underlies Heterogeneity in Heat‐Shock Response Dynamics
Authors: Vertti‐Quintero Nadia , Berger Simon , Casadevall i Solvas Xavier , Statzer Cyril , Annis Jillian , Ruppen Peter , Stavrakis Stavros , Ewald Collin Y. , Gunawan Rudiyanto , deMello Andrew J.
Published: July 2021

Significant non‐genetic stochastic factors affect aging, causing lifespan differences among individuals, even those sharing the same genetic and environmental background. In Caenorhabditis elegans, differences in heat‐shock response (HSR) are predictive of lifespan. However, factors contributing to the heterogeneity of HSR are still not fully elucidated. Here, the authors characterized HSR dynamics in isogenic C. elegans expressing GFP reporter for hsp‐16.2 for identifying the key contributors of HSR heterogeneity. Specifically, microfluidic devices that enable cross‐sectional and longitudinal measurements of HSR dynamics in C. elegans at different scales are developed: in populations, within individuals, and in embryos. The authors adapted a mathematical model of HSR to single C. elegans and identified model parameters associated with proteostasis—maintenance of protein homeostasis—more specifically, protein turnover, as the major drivers of heterogeneity in HSR dynamics. It is verified that individuals with enhanced proteostasis fidelity in early adulthood live longer. The model‐based comparative analysis of protein turnover in day‐1 and day‐2 adult C. elegans revealed a stochastic‐onset of age‐related proteostasis decline that increases the heterogeneity of HSR capacity. Finally, the analysis of C. elegans embryos showed higher HSR and proteostasis capacity than young adults and established transgenerational contribution to HSR heterogeneity that depends on maternal age.
Plasmonic metal‐organic frameworks
Authors: Zheng Guangchao , Pastoriza‐Santos Isabel , Pérez‐Juste Jorge , Liz‐Marzán Luis M.
Published: July 2021

Plasmonic metal‐organic frameworks are composite nanoparticles comprising plasmonic metal nanoparticles (NPs) embedded within a metal‐organic framework (MOF) matrix. As a result, not only the functionalities of the individual components are retained, but synergistic effects additionally provide improved chemical and physical properties. Recent progress in plasmonic MOFs has demonstrated the potential for nanofabrication and various nanotechnology applications. Synthetic challenges toward plasmonic MOFs have been recently addressed, resulting in new opportunities toward practical applications, such as surface‐enhanced Raman scattering, therapy, and catalysis. The impact of key parameters (thermodynamic vs. kinetic) on the synthetic pathways of plasmonic MOFs is reviewed, while providing insight into related progress toward structure‐derived applications.
Effect of Impact Cavity Shape Induced by Supersonic Oxygen Jet on the Dynamic Characteristics of Molten Bath in Converter
Authors: Sun Jiankun , Zhang Jiangshan , Lin Wenhui , Cao Lingling , Feng Xiaoming , Liu Qing
Published: July 2021

The cavity shape formed by the impinging of the supersonic oxygen jet on liquid metal surface is of importance to the converter steelmaking process. This work adopts the volume of fluid (VOF) model to numerically study the behavior of four‐nozzle supersonic jet impinging on molten steel bath in a 100 ton converter. First, the model is validated by comparing the jet velocity with that obtained from the literature. After validation, the dynamic interaction between supersonic jet and molten bath is studied. Moreover, the effects of lance height and operating pressure on the impact cavity depth and diameter are investigated. Compared with operating pressure, lance height shows a larger influence on altering the cavity dimensions. To quantitatively describe the profile of the scattered cavities, a dimensionless number called the modified cavity shape index (I
cm) is put forward, which has a significant influence on the velocity distribution and specific kinetic energy of molten bath. The modified cavity shape index is found to be a function of the specific kinetic energy. With the modified cavity shape index ranging from 1.47 to 1.72, the dynamic flow of the molten bath becomes beneficial to the stirring and mixing of the molten bath.
Effects of moisture content and heating temperature on the thermal expansion deformation of concrete
Authors: Li Qingtao , Sun Hufei , Wang Minghua , Liu Pu
Published: July 2021

The thermal expansion deformation of concrete is significantly influenced by high temperature and moisture content. Before being heated at elevated temperatures of 100°C, 200°C, and 300°C, the initial moisture content of concrete specimens was maintained at 0%, 3.22%, and 6.55%, respectively. The temperature in the furnace was maintained at the constant temperature until the concrete center also reached the target temperatures. The effects of moisture content and heating temperature on the compressive strength, mass loss, the rate of linear expansion (RLE), and the coefficient of thermal expansion (CTE) were analyzed. The difference of the thermal deformation of concrete before and after the furnace was maintained at the constant temperature were compared. The results showed that when the target temperature was 100°C or 300°C, the relatively lower moisture content resulted in a larger thermal expansion behavior. The RLE and CTE of concrete with the moisture content of 3.22% were the largest when the temperature was up to 200°C, and the volume expansion of concrete rapidly increased under this circumstance. After being heated and maintained at the target temperature until the center temperature of the concrete specimen also reached the target temperature, the RLE and CTE of concrete could be increased by 50% and 30%, respectively. Therefore, the holding time of heating temperature significantly influenced the thermal expansion behavior of concrete.
Engineering practices on surface damage inspection and performance evaluation of concrete bridges in China
Authors: Chen Airong , Fang Xurui , Pan Zichao , Wang Dalei , Pan Yue , Peng Bo
Published: July 2021

Abstract·

This paper mainly demonstrates some experiences in China regarding surface damage inspection and performance evaluation of reinforced concrete (RC) bridges. To begin with, the mechanisms of the major damages of RC bridges such as chloride attack, concrete carbonation, and rebar corrosion are briefly reviewed. A statistical result of concrete cracking that exists in (prestressed) concrete bridges is presented as well. Second, the inspection practices of surface damages such as crack by using computer vision and deep learning on the RC pylons of the Jiang‐Yin Yangtze River bridge are demonstrated. Third, the specifications used in China for the performance evaluation of RC bridges are introduced. Its general philosophy and framework are explained. The Xia‐Men bridge is taken as an example to illustrate how to conduct a quantitative performance evaluation by following the instructions in China specifications. Finally, some perspectives on more advanced and efficient inspection techniques and performance evaluation methods are provided.