bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Potency of the Combination of Chitosan and Hydroxyapatite on Angiogenesis and Fibroblast Cell Proliferation in Direct Pulp Capping of Rattus norvegicus
Authors: Sularsih Sularsih , Fransiska Wanli , Salsabila Syifa , Rahmitasari Fitria , Soesilo Diana , Prananingrum Widyasri
Published: May 2024

Objectives The aim of this research was to analyze expression of vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF), blood vessels, and fibroblast cell proliferation in direct pulp capping treatment of Rattus norvegicus using a combination of chitosan and hydroxyapatite paste.

Materials and Methods The samples were male R. norvegicus strains of Wistar rats, weighing 200 to 250 g and aged between 8 and 16 weeks. The occlusal surface of the molars of R. norvegicus was prepared with class I cavity and then perforated with the tip of an explorer. Sixty male R. Norvegicus rats were divided into the following: control group (KA) in which the cavity was filled with glass ionomer cement; control group (KB), in which the cavity was filled with Ca(OH)2; PA group, in which the cavity was filled with chitosan (CH); PB group, in which the cavity was filled with hydroxyapatite (HA); and PC group, in which the cavity was filled with chitosan and hydroxyapatite (CH-HA). Each group was divided into 3-, 7-, and 14-day observation groups. The mandibular bone of the molar was cut and histopathological examination was performed to analyze the blood vessels and fibroblast cell proliferation. Immunohistochemistry examination was done to examine the expression of VEGF.

Statistical Analysis The data variation was analyzed with One Way Analysis of Variance (ANOVA) test and continued with multiple comparison Least Significant (LSD) test to determine the different pairs of group.

Results Analysis of variance (ANOVA) showed a significant increase in the expression of VEGF, blood vessels, and fibroblast cell proliferations (p ≤ 0.05;), especially in the PC group compared to the other four groups. The least significant test (LSD) test showed significant differences between the groups on the expression of VEGF, blood vessels, and fibroblast cell proliferations.

Conclusion The combination of chitosan and hydroxyapatite could promote healing of direct pulp capping treatment by increasing the expression of VEGF, blood vessel, and fibroblast cell proliferation.
Comparison of Paraglossal Technique of Miller Blade Insertion with McCoy and Macintosh Adult Laryngoscopes on the Cormack–Lehane Grade in Patients with Simulated Restricted Neck Mobility—A Randomized Control Trial
Authors: Kalsad Anusha S. , Mishra Gayatri , R. Sripriya , Kameshwar Yasha V. , VR Hemanth Kumar
Published: May 2024

Background The paucity in round-the-clock availability of advanced tools like flexible bronchoscopes and video laryngoscopes makes it preferable to have alternative easily available gadgets for securing the airway in patients with cervical spine injuries where head and neck movements must be strictly avoided. This study compared the paraglossal technique of Miller blade insertion with the McCoy and Macintosh laryngoscope blades on the Cormack and Lehane grading (CLG) in patients with simulated restricted neck mobility.

Methods We randomized 90 patients undergoing general anesthesia to be intubated either using Miller blade (Group-Mill), McCoy blade (Group-McCoy), or Macintosh blade (Group-Mac) following neck restriction using a soft cervical collar. CLG grade, the number of intubation attempts, use of bougie, intubation time, and hemodynamic parameters were noted. Nonparametric data were compared using the chi-squared test and parametric data using one-way analysis of variance.

Results Group-MILL had significantly higher patients with Grade-1 CLG compared to Group-Mac (p = 0.02). The number of attempts, use of bougie, and intubation time were, however, comparable among the three groups. The hemodynamic parameters at intubation were not significantly different among the groups.

Conclusion In adult patients with simulated restricted neck, the Miller laryngoscope blade, despite providing a better laryngeal view, showed no benefit in decreasing the intubation time when compared to the McCoy or Macintosh blades.
Pulmonary Arterial Anatomical Patterns: A Classification Scheme Based on Lobectomy and 3D-CTBA
Authors: Xie Zhuolin , Zhu Xinyu , Li Feifei , Zhao Jun , Li Chang
Published: May 2024

Purpose Preoperative evaluation of pulmonary vascular and tracheal routes and variations is of great importance to the surgeon. Three-dimensional computed tomography bronchography and angiography (3D-CTBA) has evolved in recent years with the optimization of 3D reconstruction techniques and artificial intelligence. We aim to apply CT angiography and Exoview 3D reconstruction technology to assess patients' pulmonary arterial tree and its anatomical variants and to try to summarize a set of anatomical typing of the pulmonary arterial tree that is relatively easy and conducive to promoting teaching based on surgical habits of lobectomy.

Methods A total of 358 patients hospitalized in the Department of Thoracic Surgery of the First Affiliated Hospital of Soochow University between July 2020 and August 2021 were included in this study. We carefully analyzed the site of emanation, alignment, and number of branches of the pulmonary artery according to a uniform classification method in conjunction with the two-dimensional CT images and transformed them into 3D reconstruction models.

Results Different types of pulmonary artery were observed in 358 cases. We evaluated the complete pulmonary artery tree and counted the number and frequency of major arteries of the pulmonary based on the surgical habits of anatomical lobectomy.

Conclusion The 3D-CTBA technique enables us to adequately assess the anatomy of the pulmonary arteries. Moreover, we provide a practical classification scheme of pulmonary arterial anatomical patterns based on lobectomy and 3D-CTBA. Our data can be used by clinicians in the teaching of pulmonary artery anatomy and the preoperative preparation for anatomical lobectomy.
Exploring the Epidemiology and Clinico-Demographic Characteristics of Allergic Bronchopulmonary Aspergillosis in Children with Cystic Fibrosis
Authors: Bhat Javeed Iqbal , Zargar Shahan Iqbal , Bhat Mudasir Hamid , Tramboo Zubair Mushtaq , Charoo Bashir Ahmad , Thoker Zubair Ahmad
Published: May 2024

Objective This study aimed to find the prevalence and clinico-demographic profile of cystic fibrosis (CF) children with allergic bronchopulmonary aspergillosis (ABPA).

Methods A cross-sectional study was conducted at a CF clinic of a tertiary care hospital. Participants included the diagnosed cases of children with CF, of both genders, from 4 to 18 years of age.

Results A total of 61 patients were enrolled. Sixteen patients (26.2%) had Aspergillus fumigatus sensitization—among these, 10 (16.4%) patients fulfilled the minimum diagnostic criteria for ABPA and 6 (9.8%) had A. fumigatus sensitization only. Two patients were below the age of 5 years, while eight patients were more than 6 years old. The female-to-male ratio was 6:4. High attenuated mucus was the specific finding in our study cohort on computed tomography (CT) chest. All patients with ABPA had significantly higher median (interquartile range [IQR]) levels of total IgE, specific IgE, and IgG for A. fumigatus, and total eosinophil count compared to patients without ABPA. There was also a significant decrease in forced exhalation volume in first second (FEV1) values (6 months apart) in ABPA patients.

Conclusion Our study found that ABPA affects 16.4% of our CF population, with 20% of cases occurring in children aged 4 to 5 years. We observed a higher prevalence of ABPA in patients from rural areas. Eosinophilia and serial decline in FEV1 values were observed as potential early markers for ABPA.
Addressing Low Health Literacy in Surgical Populations
Authors: English Nathan C. , Jones Bayley A. , Chu Daniel I.
Published: May 2024

Health literacy is defined as the ability to obtain, engage, understand, and act upon health information to make decisions about health care. Health literacy is a key determinant of health outcomes and disparities including those in surgery. Over one-third of surgical patients suffer from low health literacy, with disproportionately higher rates among older, rural, and black patients. Low health literacy has been associated with poor adherence to preoperative and discharge instructions, longer lengths-of-stay, higher readmission rates, and higher health care costs. However, health literacy is modifiable, and therefore it is uniquely positioned for meaningful interventions at the patient, provider, and system level. These interventions include using more visual aids with patients and families (patient level), communicating in more understandable ways (provider level), and improving the organizational health literacy of hospitals (system level). Through high-quality research and multilevel interventions, significant opportunities exist to address low health literacy and improve outcomes, eliminate disparities, and reduce costs for this disparity population.
Correlating Severity of Pulmonary Hypertension by Echocardiogram with Mortality in Premature Infants with Bronchopulmonary Dysplasia
Authors: Torok Rachel D. , Gardner Robert A. , Barker Piers C.A. , McCrary Andrew W. , Li Jennifer S. , Hornik Christoph P. , Laughon Matthew M. , Jackson Wesley M.
Published: May 2024

Objective Bronchopulmonary dysplasia (BPD) is the most common complication of preterm birth. Infants with BPD are at increased risk for pulmonary hypertension (PH). Cardiac catheterization is the gold standard for diagnosing PH, but cardiac catheterization is challenging to perform in small, sick, premature infants. The utility of echocardiography for diagnosing PH and predicting outcomes in extremely premature infants has not been clearly defined. Therefore, we sought to use predefined criteria to diagnose PH by echocardiogram and relate PH severity to mortality in extremely premature infants with BPD.

Study Design Echocardiograms from 46 infants born ≤28 weeks' postmenstrual age with a diagnosis of BPD were assessed for PH by three pediatric cardiologists using predefined criteria, and survival times among categories of PH patients were compared. A total of 458 echocardiograms were reviewed, and 15 (33%) patients were found to have at least moderate PH. Patients with at least moderate PH had similar demographic characteristics to those with no/mild PH.

Results Ninety percent of infants without moderate to severe PH survived to hospital discharge, compared with 67% of infants with at least moderate PH (p = 0.048). Patients with severe PH had decreased survival to hospital discharge (38%) compared with moderate (100%) and no/mild PH (90%) groups. Kaplan–Meier survival curves also differed among PH severity groups (Wilcoxon p < 0.001).

Conclusion Using predefined criteria for PH, premature infants with BPD can be stratified into PH severity categories. Patients diagnosed with severe PH by echocardiogram have significantly reduced survival.

Key Points
Enhancing employability through university-industry linkages: Omani engineering students’ perspectives of the Eidaad internship programme
Authors: Al-Abri Mohammed , Denman Christopher , Al Alawi Mubarak , Al Ajmi Maryam
Published: May 2024

Like many Middle East and North Africa countries, one of the main socio-economic challenges facing Oman is the creation of meaningful graduate employment opportunities. A combination of factors that include the gap between the expertise and skills acquired in higher education and workforce requirements means many students struggle to find suitable jobs upon graduation. Consequently, providing quality education and developing national talents are key objectives of the country’s Vision 2040 development roadmap. Higher levels of cooperation between tertiary institutions and industry within the framework of government policy are necessary to achieve these outcomes. This study explores undergraduate engineering student perceptions of one example of this collaboration – the Eidaad internship programme. To better understand interns’ perceptions of the programme’s personal and professional benefit across targeted areas and means for further improvement, a three-part on-line questionnaire was administered to current and former programme participants. Results indicate overwhelmingly positive perceptions of the programme, including in terms of enhancing interns’ teamwork skills, workplace participation, communication skills, clarity of career plans and objectives, and so on. Participant suggestions for improvement include the creation of concrete employment pathways and the provision of further on-the-job training opportunities. Implications for the Eidaad and similar internship programmes are discussed.
Changing rules, recommendations, and risks: COVID-19 vaccination decisions and emotions during pregnancy
Authors: McKenzie Lara , Carlson Samantha J. , Blyth Christopher C. , Attwell Katie
Published: May 2024

As COVID-19 vaccinations rolled out globally from late 2020, rules and recommendations regarding vaccine use in pregnancy shifted rapidly. Pre-registration COVID-19 vaccine trials excluded those who were pregnant. Initial Australian medical advice did not routinely recommend COVID-19 vaccines in pregnancy, due to limited safety data and little perceived risk of local transmission. Advice from local medical authorities changed throughout 2021, however, with recommendations and priority access during pregnancy. In Western Australia (WA), recommendations became requirements as the State government mandated vaccines for some workers, with brief availability of pregnancy exemptions. Through an examination of 10 in-depth interviews with WA pregnant women, we explore their decision-making and complex emotions regarding COVID-19 vaccinations, and how they balanced mandates, recommendations, and shifting considerations and perceptions of risk. Changing recommendations and rules—and media and popular interpretation and communications of these—led to confusion, including for medical professionals. Expectant parents had to negotiate the risks of COVID-19 disease, potential benefits and risks of vaccination, professional and personal costs of vaccine refusal, and interpret mixed medical advice. Our findings can inform the development and communication of public health policies and medical advice, and contribute to our understanding of bodily autonomy, risk, and decision-making beyond the pandemic.
Cinemeducation to teach patient safety: an experience in medical students
Authors: Cambra-Badii Irene , Gomar-Sancho Carmen , Mastandrea Paula Belén , Arrebola-Trias Xavier , Baños Josep-Eladi , Pujol Farriols Ramón , Gonzalez-Caminal Griselda
Published: May 2024

From early in medical school, students need to learn about patient safety, and how to prevent and reduce risks, errors and harm that occur to patients during health care provision. Cinemeducation is a teaching methodology that uses fragments of feature films or TV series in medical education. We hypothesized that cinemeducation could help simplify the comprehension of complex situations for students, aiding in the learning of patient safety and the understanding of human behaviors that impact it. This concept stands as an integral component within a comprehensive medical humanities approach. The study population was the 70 medical students of the second course of a six-year undergraduate program. In a 2-h class, after learning objectives were established, students watched a fragment from TV series The Resident centered on adverse events, and discussed them afterward. To measure learning achievements, we administered a 10-question multiple-choice pre and post-test and a 2-question open-essay post-test. Given the complexity of the concepts related to patient safety, we used a mixed quali-quantitative approach. An exploratory descriptive and content analysis was performed. Sixty-eight students participated and completed the questionnaires. Despite high pre-intervention scores, post-intervention scores improved (mean difference 0.779, 95% CI: 0.475–1.083, p < 0.001). The open-essay questions provided more information about the learning points, mostly related to the understanding of system error and preventive measures against adverse events. Classical teaching methods may be insufficient for learning how to deal with complex situations in hospital contexts. Our results show that cinemeducation may significantly improve learning on patient safety. Cinemeducation methodology can be effective in teaching some complex concepts in medical education. The integration of cinemeducation within medical education, through the lens of medical humanities, offers a dynamic approach to teaching patient safety. By using cinematic narratives to explore intricate medical scenarios, students engage with real-world complexities and the influence of human factor, enhancing their understanding.
Exploring the effects of AI literacy in teacher learning: an empirical study
Authors: Du Hua , Sun Yanchao , Jiang Haozhe , Islam A. Y. M. Atiquil , Gu Xiaoqing
Published: May 2024

As most practitioners (including teachers) do not know how AI functions and cannot make full use of AI in education, there is an urgent need to investigate teachers’ intentions to learn AI and related determinants so as to promote their AI learning. This study collected survey data from a total of 318 K-12 teachers from sixteen provinces or municipalities in China. A two-step structural equation modeling approach was performed to analyze the data. Our findings show that K-12 teachers’ perceptions of the use of AI for social good and self-efficacy in learning AI are two direct determinants of behavioral intentions to learn AI, while awareness of AI ethics and AI literacy are two indirect ones. AI literacy has a direct impact on perceptions of the use of AI for social good, self-efficacy in learning AI and awareness of AI ethics and has an indirect impact on behavioral intentions to learn AI. This study represents one of the earliest attempts to empirically examine the power of AI literacy and explore the determinants of behavioral intentions to learn AI among K-12 teachers. Our findings can theoretically and practically contribute to the virgin field of K-12 teachers’ AI learning.
Identifying high-value tactical livestock decisions on a mixed enterprise farm in a variable environment
Authors: Young Michael , Young John , Kingwell Ross S. , Vercoe Philip E.
Published: May 2024

Context Australia is renowned for its climate variation, featuring years with drought and years with floods, which result in significant production and profit variability. Accordingly, to maximise profitability, dryland farming systems need to be dynamically managed in response to unfolding weather conditions. Aims The aim of this study is to identify and quantify optimal tactical livestock management for different weather-years. Methods This study employed a whole-farm optimisation model to analyse a representative mixed enterprise farm located in the Great Southern region of Western Australia. Using this model, we investigated the economic significance of five key livestock management tactics. These included timing of sheep sales, pasture-area adjustments, rotational grazing, crop grazing and sheep nutrition adjustments. Key results The results showed that, on the modelled dryland mixed-enterprise farm in the Great Southern region of Western Australia, short-term adjustments to the overall farm strategy in response to unfolding weather conditions increased expected profit by approximately 16%. Each tactic boosted profit by between A$7704 and A$53,171. However, we outline several complexities that farmers must consider when implementing tactics. Conclusions The financial gains from short-term tactical management highlighted their importance and farmers’ need to develop and apply those skills. The tactical skills promote business resilience and adaptability in the face of climate uncertainties. Implications The study highlighted the economic value of dynamic livestock management in response to climate variations, offering farmers in the Great Southern region the means to underpin profitable and sustainable farm practices.
Nonreciprocity and odd viscosity in chiral active fluids
Authors: Markovich Tomer , Lubensky Tom C.
Published: May 2024

Odd viscosity couples stress to strain rate in a dissipationless way. It has been studied in plasmas under magnetic fields, superfluid

He

3

, quantum-Hall fluids, and recently in the context of chiral active matter. In most of these studies, odd terms in the viscosity obey Onsager reciprocal relations. Although this is expected in equilibrium systems, it is not obvious that Onsager relations hold in active materials. By directly coarse-graining the kinetic energy and independently using both the Poisson-bracket formalism and a kinetic theory derivation, we find that the appearance of a nonvanishing angular momentum density, which is a hallmark of chiral active materials, necessarily breaks Onsager reciprocal relations. This leads to a non-Hermitian dynamical matrix for the total hydrodynamic momentum and to the appearance of odd viscosity and other nondissipative contributions to the viscosity. Furthermore, by accounting for both the angular momentum density and interactions that lead to odd viscosity, we find regions in the parameter space in which 3D odd mechanical waves propagate and regions in which they are mechanically unstable. The lines separating these regions are continuous lines of exceptional points, suggesting a possible nonreciprocal phase transition.
Effect of the component and the concentration ratio on the removal of volatile organic compound mixtures by non-thermal plasma
Authors: Bai Jiahui , Chen Jiayao , Wang Jiayi , Liu Jianqi , Zhong Fangchuan
Published: May 2024

The feasibility and efficiency of the degradation of volatile organic compounds (VOCs) by non-thermal plasma (NTP) has been extensive investigated and proved in laboratory experiments with single target component. In practical, multicomponent VOCs are emitted during industrial production. It is urgent need to study the abatement of multicomponent VOCs to evaluate the effectiveness of NTP technology in application, and explore the impact of interactions between VOCs components on degradation efficiency. This study focused on the degradation of VOCs mixtures composed of toluene (TOL), acetone (AC), and ethyl acetate (EA) by dielectric barrier discharge (DBD) plasma in room temperature. Through changing the target gas in turn and the concentration ratio of additive gas in binary mixture, the influence of the composition and the concentration ratio of the additive gases on the target gas degradation have been investigated by comparing the decomposition of the single compound. The results showed that AC and EA had little or no inhibitory effect on degradation of TOL. When AC was added and degraded together with TOL, the degradation rate of TOL remained almost unchanged with slight fluctuations in the range of 75.3 ± 1.0% as the ratio of added AC increased. However, TOL significantly inhibited the degradation of EA and AC, and more seriously on AC. When the ratio of added TOL increased, the degradation rates of EA or AC changed from 41.1% or 34.5% to 29.8% or 12.2%, which were 11.3% or 22.3% reduced respectively. It is indicated that there was a mutual inhibitory effect between the AC and EA when they were degraded together, and a stronger inhibitory effect of EA on AC was observed. When the ratio of added AC to EA changed from 0:1 to 3:1, the degradation rate of EA decreased by 9.5%, from 49.8% to 40.3%. When the ratio of added EA to AC changed from 0:1 to 3:1, the degradation rate of AC decreased by 16.0%, from 37.9% to 21.9%.
Spin caloritronics in metallic superlattices
Authors: Seki T , Uchida K , Takanashi K
Published: May 2024

Spin caloritronics, a research field studying on the interconversion between a charge current (

J

c

) and a heat current (

J

q

) mediated by a spin current (

J

s

) and/or magnetization (M), has attracted much attention not only for academic interest but also for practical applications. Newly discovered spin-caloritronic phenomena such as the spin Seebeck effect (SSE) have stimulated the renewed interest in the thermoelectric phenomena of a magnet, which have been known for a long time, e.g. the anomalous Nernst effect (ANE). These spin-caloritronic phenomena involving the SSE and the ANE have provided with a new direction for thermoelectric conversion exploiting

J

s

and/or M. Importantly, the symmetry of ANE allows the thermoelectric conversion in the transverse configuration between

J

q

and

J

c

. Although the transverse configuration is totally different from the conventional longitudinal configuration based on the Seebeck effect and has many advantages, we are still facing several issues that need to be solved before developing practical applications. The primal issue is the improvement of conversion efficiency. In the case of ANE-based applications, a material with a large anomalous Nernst coefficient (

S

ANE

) is the key for solving the issue. This review article introduces the increase of

S

ANE

can be achieved by forming superlattice structures, which has been demonstrated for several kinds of materials combinations. The overall picture of studies on spin caloritronics is first surveyed. Then, we mention the pioneering work on the transverse thermoelectric conversion in superlattice structures, which was performed using Fe-based metallic superlattices, and show the recent studies for the Ni-based metallic superlattices and the ordered alloy-based metallic superlattices.
Preliminary characterization of anelastic effects in the flexure mechanism for a new Kibble balance at NIST
Authors: Keck Lorenz , Seifert Frank , Newell David , Theska René , Haddad Darine
Published: May 2024

A new Kibble balance is being built at the National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST). For the first time in one of the highly accurate versions of this type of balance, a single passive flexure mechanism is used for both modes of operation: the weighing mode and the velocity mode. The mechanism is at the core of the new balance design as it represents a paradigm shift for NIST away from using knife edge-based balance mechanisms, which exhibit hysteresis in the measurement procedure of the weighing mode. Mechanical hysteresis may be a limiting factor in the performance of highly accurate Kibble balances approaching single digit nanonewton repeatability on a nominal

100

g

mass, as targeted in this work. Flexure-based mechanisms are known to have very good static hysteresis when used as a null detector. However, for larger and especially longer lasting deformations, flexures are known to exhibit anelastic drift. We seek to characterize, and ideally compensate for, this anelastic behavior after deflections during the velocity mode to enable a

10

−
8

accurate Kibble balance-measurement on a nominal

100

g

mass artifact with a single flexure-based balance mechanism. A measurement of the anelastic after-effect after static excitation hints that the apparatus produced a result for anelastic relaxation comparable to previously published work. Furthermore, a series of oscillatory displacements similar to those occurring in a velocity mode of a Kibble balance measurement are imposed upon the flexure mechanism and show a significant anelastic relaxation torque resulting in multiple micronewton of force relaxation. The amplitude of this force relaxation could be reduced by counterbending the flexures before performing a force measurement.
The role of unit cell topology in modulating the compaction response of additively manufactured cellular materials using simulations and validation experiments
Authors: Nakarmi Sushan , Kim Jihyeon , Bezek Lindsey B , Leiding Jeffery A , Lee Kwan-Soo , Daphalapurkar Nitin P
Published: May 2024

Additive manufacturing has enabled a transformational ability to create cellular structures (or foams) with tailored topology. Compared to their monolithic polymer counterparts, cellular structures are potentially suitable for systems requiring materials with high specific energy-absorbing capability to provide enhanced damping. In this work, we demonstrate the utility of controlling unit-cell topology with the intent of obtaining a desired stress–strain response and energy density. Using mesoscale simulations that resolve the unit-cell sub-structures, we validate the role of unit-cell topology in selectively activating a buckling mode and thereby modulating the characteristic stress–strain response. Simulations incorporate a linear viscoelastic constitutive model and a hyperelastic model for simulating large deformation of the polymer under both tension and compression. Simulated results for nine different cellular structures are compared with experimental data to gain insights into three different modes of buckling and the corresponding stress–strain response.
Stable CO2 reduction under natural air on Ni–Sn hydroxide photocatalyst with dynamic renewable oxygen vacancies
Authors: Lu Lei , Lv Changyu , Zhou Man , Yan Shicheng , Qiao Guanjun , Zou Zhigang
Published: May 2024

Advanced photocatalysts are highly desired to activate the photocatalytic CO2 reduction reaction (CO2RR) with low concentration. Herein, the NiSn(OH)6 with rich surface lattice hydroxyls was synthesized to boost the activity directly under the natural air. Results showed that terminal Ni–OH could serve as donors to feed protons and generate oxygen vacancies (VO), thus beneficial to convert the activated CO2 (HCO3
−) mainly into CO (5.60 μmol g−1) in the atmosphere. It was flexible and widely applicable for a stable CO2RR from high pure to air level free of additionally adding H2O reactant, and higher than the traditional gas–liquid–solid (1.58 μmol g−1) and gas–solid (4.07 μmol g−1) reaction system both using high pure CO2 and plenty of H2O. The strong hydrophilia by the rich surface hydroxyls allowed robust H2O molecule adsorption and dissociation at VO sites to achieve the Ni–OH regeneration, leading to a stable CO yield (11.61 μmol g−1) with the enriched renewable VO regardless of the poor CO2 and H2O in air. This work opens up new possibilities for the practical application of natural photosynthesis.
Majorana subsystem qubit codes that also correct odd-weight errors
Authors: Kundu Sourav , Reichardt Ben
Published: May 2024

A potential platform for topological quantum computation is the Majorana-based tetron architecture. Its building blocks are superconducting islands called tetrons, which host four Majorana zero modes. Existing error correcting codes can correct even-weight errors on tetrons. In a previous proposal by us, we had shown that incorporating tetrons in the stabilizer group allows us to correct a combination of odd-weight errors and even-weight errors on tetrons. In this work, we show that inclusion of tetrons in the gauge group lets us create subsystem codes from conventional Pauli stabilizer codes, which can correct both kinds of errors. Compared to the previous approach, the current approach lets us construct codes with fewer stabilizer generators. This leads to shorter fault-tolerant sequence length, and improves the fault-tolerant pseudothreshold by as much as 84%.
Temperature dependent interfacial-coupling and magnetization reversal of La2/3Sr1/3MnO3 film with inverted hysteresis features
Authors: Sun Yunbin , Pang Weixiu , Zhao Guoqing , Liu Xugang , Pan Qi , Fan Jiyu , He Wei , Zhao Jianjun
Published: May 2024

Temperature-dependent magnetic anisotropy and interfacial coupling of La2/3Sr1/3MnO3 (LSMO) epitaxial films with inverted hysteresis (IHLs) features are investigated using a broadband ferromagnetic resonance (FMR) spectrometer. Through the dispersion relation obtained along [100], [110] and [010] axes, a simplified method is proposed to investigation in-plane magnetic anisotropy by broadband FMR in a cryostat. According to this method, the perpendicular uniaxial anisotropy, magneto-crystalline anisotropy, and interfacial coupling between the LSMO film and hard-magnetic interface layer are investigated as a whole. The measured value of interfacial coupling is −17.6 Oe at 300 K, close to the bias field found in minor loop, i.e., −18.4 Oe. The interfacial coupling is enhanced with the dropping of temperatures, and the value of interfacial coupling changed to −112 Oe at 10 K. A Stoner-Wohlfarth-like model is employed to calculate the hysteresis loops of the films based on the measured values of in-plane magnetic anisotropy and interfacial-coupling. The calculation reveals the mechanism of magnetization reversal and the origin of IHLs found in LSMO films.
Magnetic energy product and hysteresis behavior of antiperovskite Mn3AlN: Monte Carlo Simulation
Authors: Kerrai Hamza , Zaim Ahmed , Kerouad Mohamed
Published: May 2024

In this study, we investigated the magnetic properties, magnetocaloric effect, magnetic energy product, and hysteresis behavior of Mn3AlN antiperovskite using Monte Carlo (MC) simulation techniques. We examined the effect of magnetic field on magnetic behavior. As the magnetic field values h increase, the amplitudes of both the specific heat peaks and the susceptibility also increase. For various external magnetic fields and temperatures, we obtained the adiabatic temperature change and the magnetic entropy change. The compound displayed a direct magnetocaloric effect. Furthermore, the relative cooling power (RCP) values for a magnetic field strength of 60 kOe are 117.54 J/kg. The hysteresis loops were used to calculate the energy product BH. These findings suggest that our material is an excellent fit for magnetic refrigeration and information storage applications.
Device engineering of Sb2X3 antimony chalcogenide for loss analysis and strategies for maximizing photovoltaic efficiency
Authors: Vanitha L , Thandaiah Prabu R , Jacob Anju Anna , Kumar Atul
Published: May 2024

Antimony chalcogenide (Sb2X3; X=S, Se) is reportedly stable in ambient open-air, abundant, and shows composition-dependent absorption tunability. We simulated the Sb2X3 device utilizing the reported optical and electrical properties to analyze the performance limiting factors and the extent of achievable performance. Initially, we benchmarked the simulated device with the experimental reported device. The VOC-temperature and VOC-illumination characterization of the benchmarked device revealed the contact issue responsible for the VOC deficit. The suboptimal device configuration is a major performance-limiting factor. Contact optimization and conduction band offset optimisation have improved efficiency to 14.86% and 20.45% in Sb2S3 and Sb2Se3, from their experimentally reported values of 7.5% and 9.2% respectively. The optimization of trap-assisted Shockley Read Hall (SRH) recombination in bulk and interface has improved efficiency to 19.43% and 26.13% in Sb2S3 and Sb2Se3, respectively. When extrinsic factors are optimised, such as resistance losses (series resistance as high as 2 Ωcm2 and shunt resistance as low as 1000 Ωcm2), efficiency increased to 20.03% and 26.82% for Sb2S3 and Sb2Se3, respectively. Finally, with ideal intrinsic recombination parameters (radiative and Auger recombination), efficiency improved to theoretical limits (corresponding to their band gap). The study highlights the possibility of immediate gain upon contact passivation in Sb2S3 and Sb2Se3.
Analytical study of soliton dynamics in the realm of fractional extended shallow water wave equations
Authors: Ali Rashid , Barak Shoaib , Altalbe Ali
Published: May 2024

In this study, we use the Khater Method (KM) as an efficient analytical tool to solve (3+1)-dimensional fractional extended shallow water wave equations (FESWWEs) with conformable derivatives. The KM transforms fractional partial differential equations to ordinary differential equations (ODEs) via strategic variable transformation. Then, series-form solutions to these ODEs are proposed, which turn them into nonlinear algebraic systems. The solution to this set of algebraic equations yields shock travelling wave solutions expressed in hyperbolic, trigonometric, exponential, and rational functions. The study’s findings are corroborated by 2D, 3D, and contour graphs that show the changing patterns of the detected shock travelling waves. These findings have important significance for the discipline, offering vital insights into the intricate dynamics of FESWWEs. The effectiveness of KM is demonstrated by its capacity to produce varied solutions and contribute to a thorough knowledge of such complex phenomena.
Ab initio calculation of electronic and optical properties of vdWHs HfX2/BSb(X = Se,S) using density functional theory
Authors: Al-Shammari Abbas Sahib Idan , Arghavani Nia Borhan , Rezaee Sahar
Published: May 2024

Recently, another series of two-dimensional (2D) materials called van der Waals heterostructures (vdWhs) have attracted a lot of attention due to their outstanding properties and wide application in electronic and optical devices. Based on density functional theory (DFT) calculations, the properties of heterostructures were investigated with two different vertical arrangements, formed by two isolated sheets of HfX2(X = Se,S) and Boron antimonide(BSb) monolayer. In particular, vdW interactions are present in all these heterostructures rather than covalent bonding. All thevdWHsare semiconductor with indirect k-M band gap, for which the HSE06 functional exhibit a larger gap, but the electronic gap of all heterostructures is smaller than the electronic gap of their constituent sheets. In addition, all vdWHs show excellent optical absorption in the visible, near-infrared, and ultraviolet regions in the x direction, while the absorption peaks for all vdWHs are higher in the z direction. By fabricating heterostructures from isolated plates, their absorption power increases. The present review demonstrates an effective method for the design of novel vdWHs, and it explores their applications for photocatalytic, photovoltaic, and optical devices.
Sound absorber based on a sonic black hole and multi-layer micro-perforated panels
Authors: Liang Xiao , Liang Haofeng , Chu Jiaming , Jin Feng , Wu Jiuhui
Published: May 2024

In order to achieve low-frequency and broadband sound absorption simultaneously, we propose a structure that combines a sonic black hole with multilayer micro-perforated panels. Firstly, we present finite element models for composite structures based on sonic black holes and micro-perforated panels and describe the sound absorption mechanism of the composite structure by comparing the sound absorption phenomena of micro-perforated panels with sonic black holes and micro-perforated panels with ordinary circular tubes. Secondly, the effects of the end coordinates of the sonic black hole, the number of panels and the parameters of the micro-perforated panels are discussed. Thirdly, the theoretical model of the proposed structure is developed using the transfer matrix method. Finally, the sound absorption test of the proposed structure is carried out using impedance tubes. The test results show that the sound absorption coefficient of the sample with a geometric length of 203 mm reaches 0.8 at 223 Hz and stabilizes above 0.9 at 398–1600 Hz. The sound absorber based on a sonic black hole and multi-layer micro-perforated panels has excellent sound absorption performance and has great research potential and application value.
Highly sensitive rhodamine B dye-based electrochemical sensor for lactose detection
Authors: Yıldız Dilber Esra , Taşaltın Nevin , Unal Fatma , Karakuş Selcan , Barıs Behzat
Published: May 2024

Lactose (LAC) is the main disaccharide sugar found in milk and dairy products, making it easily accessible as a food source. In addition to its importance for human and animal health, LAC concentrations serve as a biomarker of milk quality. In this study, we reported the detection of LAC using a highly sensitive electrochemical sensor based on rhodamine B (RhB) dye. The prepared RhB-based sensor exhibited excellent characteristics, including a straightforward manufacturing technique, cost-effectiveness, and exceptional sensitivity. We conducted a comparative analysis of the electrochemical response of the novel RhB-based sensor, evaluating its electrochemical performance across varying LAC concentrations and when different analyte materials (glucose, fructose, and maltose) were employed. The proposed analytical method was utilized to determine LAC using an electrochemical RhB-based sensor under optimal experimental conditions. As a result, it was experimentally observed that high sensor sensitivity of RhB based sensor against LAC was inversely proportional to the impedance value and directly proportional to conductance which corolated with the transport mechanism of RhB.
Imaging thick accretion disks and jets surrounding black holes
Authors: Zhang Zhenyu , Hou Yehui , Guo Minyong , Chen Bin
Published: May 2024

Based on the horizon-scale magnetofluid model developed in [1], we
investigate the millimeter-wave images of a geometrically thick accretion disk or a funnel wall,
i.e., the magnetofluid that encloses the base of the jet region, around a Kerr black hole. By
employing the numerical method to solve the null geodesic and radiative transfer equations, we
obtain the optical appearances at various observational angles and frequencies, generated by the
thermal synchrotron radiation within the magnetofluid. For the thick disk, we specifically examine
the impact of emission anisotropy on images, concluding that anisotropic synchrotron radiation
could play an important role in the observability of the photon ring. For the funnel wall, we find
that both the outflow and inflow funnel walls exhibit annular structures on the imaging plane. The
outflow funnel wall yields a brighter primary image than the photon ring, whereas the inflow one
does not. Based on our investigation, the inflow funnel wall model can not be ruled out by current
observations of M87*.
Entangled states as a probe of early universe history: a Higgs case study
Authors: Baunach Rose
Published: May 2024

I explore whether distinguishing features of phase transitions and/or the inflationary energy scale can be imprinted on cosmological observables due to entanglement during inflation, given a spectator scalar field with a Higgs-like potential. As a consequence of this analysis, I also present results that illustrate the variety of features a Higgs-like spectator can imprint on the primordial power spectrum due to entanglement, as well as how easy it might be to distinguish such spectra from other similar scalar field results at the level of CMB residuals. I utilize the technical framework for dynamically generated entangled states developed in [1,2] to obtain my results.
Agroforestry Implementation as Farmers Resilience Strategies to Support Farming System Sustainability Facing the Land Vulnerability at The Mount Semeru Slopes, Indonesia
Authors: Suhartini  , Lasitya Daffa Sandi , Jihad Baroroh Nur , Mujaddid Muhammad Ashri , Khusni Ahmad
Published: May 2024

The terrain on the slopes of Mount Semeru is characterized by arid conditions and an abundance of sandy soil. This has led to extensive sand mining operations in the area, extending even to privately-owned agricultural lands. These mining activities have generated adverse environmental effects, such as the depletion of vegetation, and pose risks of soil erosion and biodiversity loss. This study aimed to assess the influence of implementing agroforestry as a resilience strategy by farmers on the sustainability of farming systems in response to land vulnerability on the slopes of Mount Semeru. A quantitative approach was employed, and the study site was purposively chosen in Bambang Village, Wajak Sub-District, Malang Regency. The research employed a survey methodology, incorporating observation and interviews with respondents to gather information on the implementation of agroforestry, resilience strategies, and sustainability indicators across ecological, economic, and socio-cultural aspects. The data analysis utilized the Structural Equation Model (SEM). The findings indicate that farmers practicing agroforestry exhibit elevated resilience and enhance the sustainability of their farming systems across ecological, economic, and socio-cultural dimensions.
Green Synthesis of Ag/Mg(OH)2 Nanocomposite from Potato Peel Extract (Solanum tuberosum) and Its Antioxidant Activity
Authors: Ngo D T H , Dau T N A , Vu Y T P , Nguyen L Q
Published: May 2024

Potato peel extract (PPE) is a rich source of polyphenols which could be used as reducing agents for the green synthesis of nanocomposites. The project aims to synthesize Ag/Mg(OH)2 nanocomposites (NCs) by using PPE and investigate its antioxidant activity. The phytochemicals in peel extract act as reducing, stabilizing, and capping agents in the reduction of precursor salts. SEM-EDX analyses of the bio-synthesized Ag/Mg(OH)2 NCs show the formation of Ag nanoparticles (NPs) on the surface of Mg(OH)2 carriers with various sizes in the nanoscale, while XRD patterns suggest the existence of Mg(OH)2 hexagonal crystalline structure. The antioxidant activity of Ag/Mg(OH)2 NCs was assessed through the DPPH free radical scavenging assay with IC50 values between 1.3 and 1.4 mg/mL. Compared to various plant-based Ag NPs, such values are remarkably closer to the IC50 of the standard ascorbic acid (0.6 mg/mL), promoting PPE-based Ag/Mg(OH)2 as an effective and ecofriendly antioxidant.
Actual Adsorptive Efficiency of Aqueous Cr(VI) Using Modified Banana Pseudostems
Authors: Nguyen Minh-Kha , Nguyen Thi-Cam-Anh , Vo Quoc-Anh
Published: May 2024

A wide application of chromium (Cr) in industries has discharged large quantity of Cr(VI) into the environment. Cr(VI) is a strong oxidizing agent that can react rapidly to produce toxic compounds to humans. Various agricultural products and byproducts have been studied for the sorptive removal of Cr(VI). However, less attention has been given to the presence of Cr(III) in solution after the adsorption with significant effect to actual adsorption capacity of the material. Here the Cr(VI) removal efficiency was investigated by using modified banana pseudostems (m-BP). Banana pseudostems were treated with 0.08 M HCl for 4 h and washed thoroughly. The maximum adsorption capacity of Cr(VI) was found at pH 2, adsorbent dose 34 g/L, contact time of 180 min and 100 mg/L initial Cr(VI) concentration. The adsorption efficiency of Cr(VI) onto m-BP was recorded to be 73.6% while the total conversion of Cr(VI) was 99.6%. The adsorption efficiency was lower than the total conversion of Cr(VI) due to the reduction of Cr(VI) to Cr(III) by the presence of organic groups in banana pseudostems. Owing to relatively high efficiency, m-BP can be used as effective and very low cost adsorbent for Cr(VI) removal from wastewater.