bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Advancing tuberculosis diagnosis and management in cynomolgus macaques using Xpert MTB/RIF ultra assay
Authors: Srilohasin Prapaporn , Warit Saradee , Prammananan Therdsak , Smithtikarn Saijai , Kanitpun Reka , Kaewparuehaschai Mutchamon , Noradechanon Kirana , Meesawat Suthirote , Thakaew Nattakan , Sakulwittayasuk Nonthakorn , Kemthong Taratorn , Palaga Tanapat , Malaivijitnond Suchinda , Chaiprasert Angkana
Published: January 2024

The detection and management of Mycobacterium tuberculosis complex (MTBC) infection, the causative agent of tuberculosis (TB), in macaques, including cynomolgus macaques (Macaca fascicularis), are of significant concern in research and regions where macaques coexist with humans or other animals. This study explored the utility of the Xpert MTB/RIF Ultra assay, a widely adopted molecular diagnostic tool to diagnose tuberculosis (TB) in humans, to detect DNA from the Mycobacterium tuberculosis complex in clinical samples obtained from cynomolgus macaques. This investigation involved a comprehensive comparative analysis, integrating established conventional diagnostic methodologies, assessing oropharyngeal-tracheal wash (PW) and buccal swab (BS) specimen types, and follow-up assessments at 3-month, 6-month, and 12-month intervals. Our results demonstrated that the Xpert MTB/RIF Ultra assay was able to detect MTBC in 12 of 316 clinical samples obtained from cynomolgus macaques, presenting a potential advantage over bacterial culture and chest radiographs. The Xpert MTB/RIF Ultra assay exhibited exceptional sensitivity (100%) at the animal level, successfully detecting all macaques positive for M. tuberculosis as confirmed by traditional culture methods. The use of PW samples revealed that 5 positive samples from 99 (5.1%) were recommended for testing, compared to 0 samples from 99 buccal swab (BS) samples (0.0%). In particular, the definitive diagnosis of TB was confirmed in three deceased macaques by MTB culture, which detected the presence of the bacterium in tissue autopsy. Our findings demonstrate that the implementation of the Xpert MTB/RIF Ultra assay, along with prompt isolation measures, effectively reduced active TB cases among cynomolgus macaques over a 12-month period. These findings highlight the advance of the Xpert MTB/RIF Ultra assay in TB diagnosis and its crucial role in preventing potential outbreaks in cynomolgus macaques. With its rapidity, high sensitivity, and specificity, the Xpert MTB/RIF Ultra assay can be highly suitable for use in reference laboratories to confirm TB disease and effectively interrupt TB transmission.
Artificial neural network analysis for classification of defected high voltage ceramic insulators
Authors: Haiba Ahmed S. , Eliwa Gad A.
Published: January 2024

Partial discharge (PD) could lead to the formation of small arcs or sparks within the insulating material, which can cause damage and degradation to the insulator over time. In ceramic insulators, there are several factors that can cause PD including manufacturing defects, aging, and exposure to environmental conditions such as moisture and temperature extremes. As a result, detecting and monitoring PD in ceramic insulators is important for ensuring the reliability and safety of electrical systems that rely on these insulators. In this study, acoustic emission technique is introduced for PD detection and condition monitoring of defective ceramic insulators. A sequence of data processing techniques is performed on the captured signals to extract and select the most significant signatures for classification of defects in insulator strings. Artificial neural network (ANN) has been used to build an intelligent classifier for easily and accurately classification of defective insulators. The overall recognition rate of the classifier was obtained at 96.03% from discrete wavelet transform analysis and 88.65% from fast Fourier transform analysis. This obtained result indicates high accuracy and performance classification. The outcomes of ANN were verified by SVM and KNN algorithms.
Geographical and environmental patterns of Carpathian land snail faunas in a region of high endemicity
Authors: Gheoca Voichița , Benedek Ana Maria , Cameron Robert
Published: January 2024

The land snail faunas of limestone gorges of Romanian Carpathians were sampled to test the effect of geographic and environmental factors on the malacofauna richness and composition. A total of 134 sites within 28 limestone gorges were surveyed during 2011–2019 using a combined strategy of visual search and litter/topsoil analysis. Environmental variables such as geographic location, altitude, climate, microhabitat type, dominant vegetation, tree cover and width of the gorge were recorded to detect the relationship with species richness and composition. While the numbers of species, their identities and their abundance varied greatly among samples, both presence and absence data and quantitative multivariate analyses showed that region and climate or altitude (both strongly associated with region) accounted for far more variation than differences in tree cover and dominant microhabitat. Nevertheless, the effects of different habitat preferences were evident. The mixture of species with very restricted ranges within this Pleistocene refugium and those that have spread widely during the Holocene raise questions about the meaning of region when related to local richness and composition.
Unveiling breast cancer metastasis through an advanced X-ray imaging approach
Authors: Conceição Andre L. C. , Müller Volkmar , Burandt Eike-Christian , Mohme Malte , Nielsen Leonard C. , Liebi Marianne , Haas Sylvio
Published: January 2024

Breast cancer is a significant global health burden, causing a substantial number of deaths. Systemic metastatic tumour cell dissemination is a major cause of poor outcomes. Understanding the mechanisms underlying metastasis is crucial for effective interventions. Changes in the extracellular matrix play a pivotal role in breast cancer metastasis. In this work, we present an advanced multimodal X-ray computed tomography, by combining Small-angle X-ray Scattering Tensor Tomography (SAXS-TT) and X-ray Fluorescence Computed Tomography (XRF-CT). This approach likely brings out valuable information about the breast cancer metastasis cascade. Initial results from its application on a breast cancer specimen reveal the collective influence of key molecules in the metastatic mechanism, identifying a strong correlation between zinc accumulation (associated with matrix metalloproteinases MMPs) and highly oriented collagen. MMPs trigger collagen alignment, facilitating breast cancer cell intravasation, while iron accumulation, linked to angiogenesis and vascular endothelial growth factor VEGF, supports cell proliferation and metastasis. Therefore, these findings highlight the potential of the advanced multimodal X-ray computed tomography approach and pave the way for in-depth investigation of breast cancer metastasis, which may guide the development of novel therapeutic approaches and enable personalised treatment strategies, ultimately improving patient outcomes in breast cancer management.
Reduction of discrepancies between students and instructors in the assessment of practical tasks through structured evaluation sheets and peer feedback
Authors: Bizhang Mozhgan , Adib Shaban Havre , Vahlenkamp Andreas , Zimmer Stefan , Möltner Andreas , Ehlers Jan
Published: January 2024

The aim of this study was to reduce discrepancies between students and instructors in a preclinical dental course by employing structured peer feedback based on a detailed evaluation sheet. In a crossover study of dental students (n = 32), which compared peer feedback using an evaluation sheet (test) with the traditional method (control), participants completed tasks involving cavity and partial crown preparation. The practical tasks were scored numerically on a scale ranging from one (excellent) to six (failure). The amount of feedback provided by the instructor was also recorded. Statistical analysis was conducted using Wilcoxon signed-rank tests (p < 0.05). Regarding cavity preparation, no statistically significant difference was observed (median (25th–75th percentile)) between the grades received by the test (2.00 (1.50–3.00)) and control groups (2.25 (2.00–3.00)). However, the grades pertaining to partial crown preparation exhibited a statistically significant difference between the test (2.25 (2.00–2.50)) and control (2.50 (2.00–3.00)) groups. LimeSurvey and five-finger feedback were used to assess satisfaction with the new method, revealing that most students found the evaluation sheet and peer feedback to be effective. Within the limitations of this study, structured peer feedback using the evaluation sheet positively impacted grades pertaining to partial crown preparation, requiring less instructor feedback.
The natural breakthrough: phytochemicals as potent therapeutic agents against spinocerebellar ataxia type 3
Authors: Naveed Muhammad , Ali Nouman , Aziz Tariq , Hanif Nimra , Fatima Mahnoor , Ali Imran , Alharbi Metab , Alasmari Abdullah F. , Albekairi Thamer H.
Published: January 2024

There is no FDA-approved drug for neurological disorders like spinocerebellar ataxia type 3. CAG repeats mutation in the ATXN3 gene, causing spinocerebellar ataxia type 3 disease. Symptoms include sleep cycle disturbance, neurophysiological abnormalities, autonomic dysfunctions, and depression. This research focuses on drug discovery against ATXN3 using phytochemicals of different plants. Three phytochemical compounds (flavonoids, diterpenoids, and alkaloids) were used as potential drug candidates and screened against the ATXN3 protein. The 3D structure of ATXN3 protein and phytochemicals were retrieved and validation of the protein was 98.1% Rama favored. The protein binding sites were identified for the interaction by CASTp. ADMET was utilized for the pre-clinical analysis, including solubility, permeability, drug likeliness and toxicity, and chamanetin passed all the ADMET properties to become a lead drug candidate. Boiled egg analysis attested that the ligand could cross the gastrointestinal tract. Pharmacophore analysis showed that chamanetin has many hydrogen acceptors and donors which can form interaction bonds with the receptor proteins. Chamanetin passed all the screening analyses, having good absorption, no violation of Lipinski’s rule, nontoxic properties, and good pharmacophore properties. Chamanetin was one of the lead compounds with a − 7.2 kcal/mol binding affinity after screening the phytochemicals. The stimulation of ATXN3 showed stability after 20 ns of interaction in an overall 50 ns MD simulation. Chamanetin (Flavonoid) was predicted to be highly active against ATXN3 with good drug-like properties. In-silico active drug against ATXN3 from a plant source and good pharmacokinetics parameters would be excellent drug therapy for SC3, such as flavonoids (Chamanetin).
The relationship between physical performance and alcohol consumption levels in Russian adults
Authors: Mitkin Nikita A. , Kirilkin German E. , Unguryanu Tatiana N. , Malyutina Sofia , Cook Sarah , Kudryavtsev Alexander V.
Published: January 2024

Investigating the relationship between alcohol consumption and physical performance, we used data from the 2015–2018 Know Your Heart study on 4215 adults aged 35–69 from Arkhangelsk and Novosibirsk, Russia. We classified participants’ drinking status into non-drinking, non-problem drinking, hazardous drinking, and harmful drinking based on their self-reported drinking behaviors. To evaluate physical performance, we developed a Composite Physical Performance Scale (CPPS), which combined the results of three functional tests: grip strength (GS), closed-eyes balance, and chair rises (CR). We applied multivariable linear regression to assess the relationship between alcohol consumption and CPPS score, and ordinal logistic regression to explore the associations between alcohol consumption and the three functional tests separately. The results showed that harmful drinking was associated with lower CPPS scores compared to non-problem drinking. Among harmful drinking men, the decrease in CPPS scores was explained by all three tests equally and exceptionally by GS among women. Non-drinking was also associated with decreased CPPS, linked to lower GS and CR scores in men, and only lower GS scores in women. The study revealed a reduced physical performance in the non-drinking and harmful drinking groups compared to non-problem drinking.
Impact of serum eicosapentaenoic acid/arachidonic acid ratio on overall survival in lung cancer patients treated with pembrolizumab: a pilot study
Authors: Tanaka Ikue , Yano Yukihiro , Mori Masahide , Manabe Satoru , Fukuo Keisuke
Published: January 2024

This pilot study analyzed the dietary patterns of patients with non-small cell lung cancer undergoing initial pembrolizumab, an immune checkpoint inhibitor (ICI), treatment in the month before treatment. Serum fatty acid fractions and their associations with ICI treatment efficacy were also investigated. The results showed that long-term survivors (those who survived for ≥ 3 years) consumed significantly more seafood than short-term survivors (those who survived for < 3 years). Furthermore, the serum levels of eicosapentaenoic acid (EPA) as well as the ratio of EPA to arachidonic acid (EPA/AA) were higher in the long-term survivors than those in the short-term survivors. The group with a high serum EPA/AA ratio had a significantly higher overall survival rate after ICI treatment than the group with a low serum EPA/AA ratio. In conclusion, higher dietary seafood consumption may improve OS in lung cancer patients treated with ICI and the serum EPA/AA ratio may be a useful biomarker for determining the efficacy of ICI treatment. Thus, supplements that increase the serum EPA/AA ratio could serve as new nutritional interventions for enhancing the efficacy of ICI treatment. However, further large-scale case and intervention studies are required.
Metformin protects ovarian granulosa cells in chemotherapy-induced premature ovarian failure mice through AMPK/PPAR-γ/SIRT1 pathway
Authors: Yang Yuxin , Tang Xiangting , Yao Ting , Zhang Yiqing , Zhong Yufei , Wu Shuqing , Wang Yurou , Pan Zezheng
Published: January 2024

Premature ovarian failure (POF) caused by chemotherapy is a growing concern for female reproductive health. The use of metformin (MET), which has anti-oxidative and anti-inflammatory effects, in the treatment of POF damaged by chemotherapy drugs remains unclear. In this study, we investigated the impact of MET on POF caused by cyclophosphamide (CTX) combined with busulfan (BUS) and M1 macrophages using POF model mice and primary granule cells (GCs). Our findings demonstrate that intragastric administration of MET ameliorates ovarian damage and alleviates hormonal disruption in chemotherapy-induced POF mice. This effect is achieved through the reduction of inflammatory and oxidative stress-related harm. Additionally, MET significantly relieves abnormal inflammatory response, ROS accumulation, and senescence in primary GCs co-cultured with M1 macrophages. We also observed that this protective role of MET is closely associated with the AMPK/PPAR-γ/SIRT1 pathway in cell models. In conclusion, our results suggest that MET can protect against chemotherapy-induced ovarian injury by inducing the expression of the AMPK pathway while reducing oxidative damage and inflammation.
Effects of elastic taping on kyphosis and body balance in the elderly: a randomized crossover study
Authors: Tangpakkakul Surapa , Manimmanakorn Nuttaset , Manimmanakorn Apiwan , Vichiansiri Ratana , Hamlin Michael J.
Published: January 2024

Kyphosis produces abnormal posture and reduced body balance in the elderly. Elastic tape may be useful at improving kyphotic posture and body balance. This study aims to evaluate the effects of elastic taping on kyphosis and body balance in the elderly. Ten elderly participants with degenerative kyphotic posture were recruited and randomly assigned to two groups (back taped with stretched elastic tape for 15 min and back taped with non-stretched elastic tape for 15 min). After a 1-h washout period, the groups were swapped over to receive the other intervention. The outcomes measured after each taping technique were Cobb’s angle measurement by inclinometer, perceived pain, and balance measurements by single leg stance test, time up and go test, center of gravity alignment (COG) and modified clinical test of sensory interaction on balance test (mCTSIB). There was a significant reduction in kyphotic angle and back pain in both the stretched and non-stretched taping groups (p < 0.05). We also found both taping techniques significantly reduced sway velocity on a foam surface with eyes closed and open (p < 0.05). However, there was no significant difference between taping groups for kyphotic angle, pain reduction or balance. The application of 15 min of stretched and non-stretched elastic tape in the elderly reduced kyphotic angle, back pain, and sway velocity while standing on foam surface in the mCTSIB test. If these changes persist over the long term (days and weeks) taping may be a useful intervention for elderly patients with kyphosis.
Kinetic and hydrogen production analysis in the sequential valorization of a Populus clone by cold alkaline extraction and pyrolysis
Authors: Lozano-Calvo S. , Loaiza J. M. , García J. C. , Tapias R. , López F.
Published: January 2024

This work employed a two-step biorefining process, consisting of a hemicellulose-rich liquor production through ultrasound-assisted cold alkaline extraction (CAE), followed by thermochemical treatment of the resultant solid phase. The post-CAE solid phase’s pyrolytic potential was assessed by application of thermogravimetric analysis (TGA) and Friedman’s isoconversional method, and also from hydrogen production. The solid phases remaining after the CAE treatment were more reactive than the untreated raw material. Notably, the alkali concentration employed in the first step was the individual variable most pronounced influence on their activation energy (Ea). Thus, at a degree of conversion α = 0.50, Ea ranged from 109.7 to 254.3 kJ/mol for the solid phases, compared to 177 kJ/mol for the raw material; this value decreased with rising glucan content. At maximal degradation, the post-CAE solid phases produced up to 15.57% v/v more hydrogen than did the untreated raw material.
The drivers of global news spreading patterns
Authors: Alipour Shayan , Di Marco Niccolò , Avalle Michele , Etta Gabriele , Cinelli Matteo , Quattrociocchi Walter
Published: January 2024

The web radically changed the dissemination of information and the global spread of news. In this study, we aim to reconstruct the connectivity patterns within nations shaping news propagation globally in 2022. We do this by analyzing a dataset of unprecedented size, containing 140 million news articles from 183 countries and related to 37,802 domains in the GDELT database. Unlike previous research, we focus on the sequential mention of events across various countries, thus incorporating a temporal dimension into the analysis of news dissemination networks. Our results show a significant imbalance in online news spreading. We identify news superspreaders forming a tightly interconnected rich club, exerting significant influence on the global news agenda. To further investigate the mechanisms underlying news dissemination and the shaping of global public opinion, we model countries’ interactions using a gravity model, incorporating economic, geographical, and cultural factors. Consistent with previous studies, we find that countries’ GDP is one of the main drivers to shape the worldwide news agenda.
Lesion size affects the risk of technical difficulty in gastric endoscopic submucosal dissection
Authors: Zhao Yuqi , Pan Xiaogao , Chen Yihan , Tan Yuyong , Liu Deliang
Published: January 2024

Current evidence shows an inter-country inconsistency in the effect of lesion size on the technical difficulty of gastric endoscopic submucosal dissection (ESD). We aimed to evaluate the specific correlation and quantify the ensuing risks. This retrospective study consisted of 405 ESD cases with gastric single lesion from April 2015 to April 2023. The correlation and risk prediction of lesion size with technical difficulty was explored to provide further clinical evidence. An additive generalized model and recursive algorithm were used to describe the non-linear association, and a linear two-piece regression was constructed to analyze the inflection point. Subgroup analysis and interaction were used to explore intergroup characteristics. Overall, difficult cases had larger lesion sizes, and the more significant the increase, the higher the risk of technical difficulty. In the full model, after adjusting for all covariates, each 1 mm, 3 mm, 5 mm, 7 mm, and one standard increase in lesion size increased the risk of technical difficulty by 8%, 26%, 42%, 72%, and 125%, respectively. There is a nonlinear positive correlation between lesion size and risk of technical difficulty, and the premeditated inflection point was 40 (mm) via two-piecewise linear regression and recursive algorithm. Subgroup analysis showed a stronger correlation between lesion size and difficult ESD in the upper site and submucosal fibrosis groups. Available evidence suggests that lesion size as a risk signal nonlinearly increases the technical difficulty of gastric ESD procedure, especially in cases of upper site and submucosal fibrosis, which deserves further investigation.
Split G-quadruplex based PfAgo sensing platform for nucleotide mutation discrimination and human genotyping
Authors: Zhang Yan , Gong Bin , Lin Yanan , Zhu Yuedong , Su Gaoxing , Yu Yanyan
Published: January 2024

A split G-quadruplex based PfAgo sensing platform was developed for nucleotide mutation discrimination and human genotyping.
Emerging nanoparticle platforms for CpG oligonucleotide delivery
Authors: Li Mingqiang , Yao Haochen , Yi Ke , Lao Yeh-Hsing , Shao Dan , Tao Yu
Published: January 2024

In this review, we provide a comprehensive summary of the nanoparticle-based CpG delivery systems developed to improve the efficacy of CpG-mediated immune responses.
Iron content in aerosol particles and its impact on atmospheric chemistry
Authors: Al-Abadleh Hind A.
Published: January 2024

Atmospheric aerosol effects on ecological and human health remain uncertain due to their highly complex and evolving nature when suspended in air.
A nitrogen-rich graphdiyne containing hexaazatrinaphthylene for high-performance lithium-ion batteries
Authors: Hou Jiaheng , Wang Danbo , Chao Menghuan , Zhang Lin , Liu Hui , Zhao Yingjie
Published: January 2024

An hexaazatrinaphthylene-based graphdiyne with a fully π-conjugated 2D network was successfully prepared and exhibited superior performance in lithium-ion batteries.
Synthesis of highly substituted 1,3-dienes through halonium promoted 1,2-sulfur migration of propargylic thioethers
Authors: Martínez-Núñez Clara , Velasco Noelia , Sanz Roberto , Suárez-Pantiga Samuel
Published: January 2024

Highly regio- and diastereoselective synthesis of 2-thiorganyl 1-bromo or 1-iodo-1,3-dienes is reported via 1,2-sulfur migration of propargylic sulfides. These dienes are precursors of thiophenes and selenophenes by reaction with sulfur or selenium.
A desirable coplanar energetic pentazolate salt driven by hydrogen bonds
Authors: Tang Mingjie , Yin Zhaoyang , Zeng Zhiwei , Dong Yaqun , Huang Wei , Liu Yuji , Tang Yongxing
Published: January 2024

A coplanar and insensitive energetic pentazolate salt was effectively synthesized from a twisted molecule by protonation and hydrogen bonding assembly.
Impact of temperature-dependent non-PAN peroxynitrate formation, RO2NO2, on nighttime atmospheric chemistry
Authors: Färber Michelle , Vereecken Luc , Fuchs Hendrik , Gkatzelis Georgios I. , Rohrer Franz , Wedel Sergej , Wahner Andreas , Novelli Anna
Published: January 2024

This paper highlights the importance of including the reversible formation of non-acyl peroxynitrate species in chemical mechanisms to correctly predict the concentration of peroxy radicals which are pivotal in the formation of secondary pollutants.
MoO3nanowire growth on VO2/WO3for thermochromic applications
Authors: Houimi Amina , Basyooni-M. Kabatas Mohamed A. , Yilmaz Mucahit , Eker Yasin Ramazan
Published: January 2024

Strained MoO3/VO2/WO3nanowires showed a phase transition temperature (Tc) of 36.8 °C, a transmittance luminous (Tlum) of 54.57%, and a solar modulation ability (ΔTsol) of 12.43.
Integration of surface polymerization and self-assembly strategies for heterogenization of copper-based catalysts for water oxidation
Authors: Li Xin , Shao Mengjiao , Song Xueling , Jiang Xuesong , Li Guisheng , Wang Lei
Published: January 2024

Integration of surface polymerization and self-assembly strategies for heterogenization of copper-based catalyst leads to sustainable high efficiency for water oxidation.
Reproducibility in materials informatics: lessons from ‘A general-purpose machine learning framework for predicting properties of inorganic materials’
Authors: Persaud Daniel , Ward Logan , Hattrick-Simpers Jason
Published: January 2024

Reproducing results from a foundational materials informatics tool (magpie) is difficult and in this study, a failure. This failure yields tangible suggestions to promote easy adoption and trust of materials informatics in the future.
Autonomous cementitious materials formulation platform for critical infrastructure repair
Authors: Joress Howie , Cook Rachel , McDannald Austin , Kozdras Mark , Hattrick-Simpers Jason , Newman Aron , Jones Scott
Published: January 2024

Autonomous systems can greatly increase the efficiency and speed of the development of cement materials for infrastructure repair.
Mechanistic characterisation of a sesquiterpene synthase for asterisca-1,6-diene from the liverwort Radula lindenbergiana and implications for pentalenene biosynthesis
Authors: Xu Houchao , Köllner Tobias G. , Chen Feng , Dickschat Jeroen S.
Published: January 2024

The asterisca-1,6-diene synthase from the liverwort Radula lindenbergiana was functionally and mechanistically characterised, with implications also for the long discussed biosynthesis of pentalenene.
Designing binary electrocatalysts for hydrogen evolution in saline electrolyte using rapid synthesis on carbon paper supports
Authors: Sullivan Connor S. , Jeong Sangmin , King Melissa E. , Ross Michael B.
Published: January 2024

Generating hydrogen from brackish or seawater could enable flexible energy generation, de-centralized electricity storage, and decreased reliance on energy-intensive water purification for hydrogen evolution reaction (HER).
Palladium-catalyzed thiocarbonylation of alkenes toward branched thioesters using CO2
Authors: Wang Huan , Li Chen , Li Yudong , Chen Jianbin , Liu Shaoli , Li Yuehui
Published: January 2024

Thiocarbonylation of alkenes using CO2 was developed for the preparation of a broad array of thioesters. By the combination of Pd catalyst and N–P type carbazophosphine ligand, the reactivity and selectivity were well tuned.
Direct access to hydrazides and amides from carboxylic acids via acyloxyphosphonium ion
Authors: Tyagi Aparna , Hazra Chinmoy K.
Published: January 2024

Adding an amine moiety to a carbonyl group poses a challenging synthetic task; nevertheless, it is a crucial step in developing numerous bioactive molecules.
Phase transitions and spectral shifts: a quantum mechanical exploration of vibrational frequency in magnesium ferrite
Authors: Almutairi Tahani Saad
Published: January 2024

Spinel ferrites represent an integral subset of magnetic materials, with their inherent properties largely influenced by cation occupancy and spin interaction.
Study on the host–guest interactions between tetramethyl cucurbit[6]uril and 2-heterocyclic-substituted benzimidazoles
Authors: Ye Yanan , Ma Peihua , Ma Yue , Yang Naqin , Chen Xiaoqian , Yang Xinan , Shen Lingyi , Xiao Xin
Published: January 2024

The different interaction modes between TMeQ[6] and the guests indicate that the benzimidazole ring and heterocyclic substituted groups of the guest molecules are in competition with the cavity of TMeQ[6].
Ammonia synthesis from nitrogen and steam using electrochemical cells with a hydrogen-permeable membrane and Ru/Cs+/C catalysts
Authors: Nagaishi Shintaroh , Hayashi Rika , Hirata Aika , Sagara Raisei , Kubota Jun
Published: January 2024

A new electrochemical cell with a hydrogen-permeable membrane, carbon-supported Ru catalysts, and CsH2PO4/SiP2O7 electrolytes synthesizes NH3 from N2 and steam at 10 mA cm−2, 250 °C, and 1.0 MPa with an impressive 28% current efficiency, marking a significant leap in sustainable ammonia production.
Water state, thermal transition behavior and structure of hydrated gelatin films
Authors: Liu Runpeng , Qiao Congde , Liu Qinze , Yao Jinshui , Xu Jing
Published: January 2024

The water state, thermal transition behaviors, structure and mechanical properties of hydrated gelatin films were studied by differential scanning calorimetry (DSC), infrared spectroscopy (FTIR), X-ray diffraction, and universal testing instruments.
Metallic cobalt/cobalt sulfide hetero-nanostructures embedded within N-doped graphitic carbon nanocages for the hydrogen evolution reaction
Authors: Mai Hien Duy , Park Poong Mo , Bae Gi-Nam , Jeong Sangmin , Seo Beomwon , Cho Minsong , Park Sunyoung , Cuong Nguyen Duc , Cuong Tran Viet , Tran Ngoc Minh , Park Cheol-Min , Jeon Ki-Joon
Published: January 2024

Metallic cobalt/cobalt sulfide embedded within N-doped graphitic carbon nanocages synthesized through a pyrolysis of ZIF-67 under H2 and S show morphological uniformity beneficial for maintaining electrochemical long-term durability.
A multimodal therapy for infected diabetic wounds based on glucose-responsive nanocomposite-integrated microneedles
Authors: Zhou Qixin , Li Xiaodan , Gao Nan , Ling Guixia , Zhang Peng
Published: January 2024

Antibacterial nanocomposite-integrated microneedles were designed for infected diabetic wound therapy. The nanocomposite could be destroyed by high glucose and exerted a powerful and synergistic antibacterial effect against bacterial infections.
Schottky heterojunction CeO2@MXene nanosheets with synergistic type I and type II PDT for anti-osteosarcoma
Authors: Zheng Bingxin , Zhang Ranran , Kuang Fei , Hui Tiankun , Fu Chenchen , Zhang Li , Zhou Chuanli , Qiu Meng , Yue Bin
Published: January 2024

Endogenous O2 can be continuously generated by the catalysis of Ce in the lattice of CeO2 to enhance 1O2 production via a type II PDT (energy transfer), and many other ROS (such as O2− and ·OH) can be produced via a type I PDT (electron transfer).
Understanding the glassy dynamics from melting temperatures in binary glass-forming liquids
Authors: Nie Yunhuan , Wang Lijin , Guan Pengfei , Xu Ning
Published: January 2024

In binary glass-forming liquids, the difference in dynamics between large and small particles correlates well with the difference in effective melting temperatures between them.
Reflecting on Relationally Focused Critical Incidents: Investigating the Use of Reflective Writing to Support Conflict-Handling Skills During Speech-Language Pathology Student Internships
Authors: Hollister Julia E. , Kadir Keralyn A. , Daher Noha S.
Published: January 2024

Purpose:

Handling conflict successfully is an important professional competency. This study examined whether integrating relationally focused critical-incident reflections into graduate speech-language pathology student internships improved conflict-handling skills. The study also analyzed the breadth and depth of reflections and identified student variables associated with improved conflict handling.

Method:

Participants were a convenience sample of 49 graduate speech-language pathology students. A quasi-experimental design was used to compare participant conflict-handling skills at baseline, after a 7-week control period, and after 7 weeks of biweekly reflections. Students were provided with an orientation and writing prompt to guide their reflections. Relationships were examined between participant conflict-handling abilities, reflective capacity, emotional intelligence, number of reflections completed, and years of speech-language pathology–related experience.

Results:

Significant changes did not occur in conflict-handling skills after completing 7 weeks of relationally focused critical-incident reflections. Students demonstrated measurable ability to reflect on their experiences but appeared unable to achieve deep reflection. Significant correlations were revealed between emotional intelligence, number of reflections completed, and changes in conflict handling. Students with 2–4 years of prior speech-language pathology–related experience appeared to increase their conflict-handling skills during the clinical internship.

Conclusions:

Students were unable to critically reflect with guided questions and a training session alone. Reflection did not result in changes to conflict-handling skills, although individual student variables did impacted conflict handing. Implications for clinical education are discussed.
Integration of wind farm, energy storage and demand response for optimum management of generation and carbon emission
Authors: Shafiei Kasra , Tarafdar Hagh Mehrdad , Seifi Ali
Published: January 2024

The optimal operation of power systems is one of the most critical issues for operators. Optimizing the operation of power systems while accommodating the increasing penetration of RES, owing to the intermittent and variable nature of these resources, stands as one of the most critical challenges for power systems. Numerous primary challenges, including fluctuations in load and nonlinear constraints, further complicate the issue, given its substantial dimensions. Therefore, this paper introduces an approach for improving the management of optimal generation and the associated carbon emissions costs of traditional power plants, which is achieved through integrating wind farms and incorporating battery energy storage. This enhancement is achieved by integrating wind farms and utilizing battery storage systems while considering the costs associated with traditional units using fossil fuels and the expenses related to carbon emissions. The simulation incorporates seven load customer types and five traditional generation sources integrated with wind farms and battery storage devices. The simulation results demonstrate that the new problem formulation has significantly improved the ability and performance of optimizing the scheduling of power plant generations.
Non‐ureolytic microbially induced carbonate precipitation: Investigating a cleaner biogeotechnical engineering pathway for soil mechanical improvement
Authors: Hemayati Mohammad , Nematollahi Abdolreza , Nikooee Ehsan , Habibagahi Ghassem , Niazi Ali
Published: January 2024

As the world's population grows, there is an increasing need for soil improvement techniques to accommodate construction demands. Current methods, most often, suffer from a high CO2 footprint, leading researchers to resort to biological methods of soil improvement through microbially induced carbonate precipitation (MICP). Commonly used ureolytic microbial carbonate precipitation produces ammonium ions, which can be environmentally concerning. The present study, therefore, addresses the use of non‐ureolytic MICP for soil improvement. The process of non‐ureolytic MICP relies on the use of heterotrophic bacteria to catalyze the oxidation reaction of organic compounds, eventually calcium carbonate precipitation. In this study, heterotrophic bacteria, such as Bacillus subtilis and Bacillus amyloliquefaciens, have been investigated as a solution for soil improvement via an ammonium‐free MICP. Calcium formate and calcium acetate are used as both calcium and carbon sources. This study, furthermore, examines the impact of MICP treatment on sandy soil and the effect of compaction level on treated samples. The findings indicate that the non‐ureolytic MICP method is an effective approach for stabilizing sand. The Calcium Formate‐B.Subtilis composition is shown to be the most effective compound for improving the unconfined compressive strength of sandy soils, while the Calcium Acetate‐B.Amyloliquefaciens composition is the least effective.
Seismic Performance of Iwf Flexural Link in Chevron Eccentrically Brace Frames (V-EBFs) with Different Stiffener Space
Authors: Imran Muhammad , Hasan Muttaqin , Panjaitan Arief , Shimizu Masaru
Published: January 2024

Eccentrically Braced Frames (EBFs) are the structural systems that are recommended to be constructed in Earthquake Hazard Areas. This system combines good characteristics in withstanding the seismic load, i.e., stiffness, ductility, and dissipation energy. Link is a component in EBFs that play the role of the seismic energy dissipator. As far, several studies have been conducted to enhance the link performance, but the information is still limited. This study observed the structural performance of the IWF flexural link, where this link will experience failure at the flange due to seismic energy dissipation. The investigation was conducted by establishing three Finite Element (FE) models of flexural link. Each link was designed with the same length, i.e. 1000 mm. Three-link models were distinguished by the differences in web stiffener configuration, i.e., non-stiffener link, 250 mmstiffener spacing link, and 100 mm-stiffener spacing link, respectively. All models were examined under cyclic loading with yield displacement controlled. The research discovered that adding the web stiffener on the IWF flexural link significantly escalated the EBFs’ seismic performance, i.e., strength, stiffness, ductility, and dissipation energy. The best seismic performance was presented by a 100 mm-stiffener spacing link. Accordingly, it is indicated that arranging the web stiffeners at the narrow space in the IWF link can be suggested to improve the seismic performance of EBFs.
Seismic Performance of IWF Flexural Link in Inverted-V Eccentrically Braced Frames With Different Stiffener Spaces
Authors: Hanafi M. Fujii , Hasan Muttaqin , Panjaitan Arief , Shimizu Masaru
Published: January 2024

Resistant structures, such as Eccentrically Braced Frames (EBFs), are required to be established in earthquake-hazard areas. In EBFs, an essential beam component, known as link, plays a crucial role in determining the performance of these structures. As the seismic energy dissipator, link experiences failure to prevent heavy damage to other EBFs members, such as beams and columns. Although several studies have been carried out to enhance the seismic performance of link, there is still limited regarding these elements. Therefore, this study aimed to investigate several IWF flexural links constructed in FE models of Inverted-V EBFs. A total of three flexural links with different stiffener spaces were considered namely non-spacing, 250 mm, and 100 mm stiffener spacing links. To assess their performance, cyclic loading with yield displacement control was used in EBFs models. Observations were mainly conducted on EBFs performances consisting of strength, stiffness, and dissipation energy. The results showed that the best seismic performance was specified on a 100 mm-stiffener spacing link by presenting the largest and most stable hysteresis curve. Based on these results, the configuration of the narrow space stiffener in the link element was recommended to improve the seismic performance of EBFs.
Estimation of debris flow using Curve Number analysis for The Mount Agung Volcanic event, Bali, Indonesia
Authors: Zahroni Aulia , Nugroho Eka Oktariyanto , Harlan Dhemi , Soentoro Edy Anto , Aprilian Zeolita
Published: January 2024

After the 2017 eruption, rainfall-induced debris flow was generated within several rivers in where upstream area at Mount Agung. On 27 November 2017, a debris flow occurred in the Yeh Sah River after a rainfall intensity of 32 mm/day was monitored at the Rendang Observation Station. Estimation of rainfall-runoff-induced debris flow at this event is difficult and uncertain because this event occurred at 01.00 – 06.00 local time. This study focused on analyzing curve number value to estimate debris flow based on the 27 November 2017 event at Yeh Sah River Basin. Daily rainfall on 27 November 2017 was distributed to 6 hours using the PSA coefficient and then applied to generate runoff potential using the modified NRCS-CN for the hydrologic loss method and the SCS Unit Hydrograph for the transform method, applied in HEC-HMS 4.10. Hydrological model results are verified with the debris flow modeling using 2-D non-Newtonian features in HEC-RAS 6.3.1 with geometry based on topography 2016 and 2020. The results of the hydraulic model are validated with debris plain boundaries obtained from Google Earth imagery in 2018 and field observations in 2022. The result showed that the estimation of the debris flow event on 27 November 2017 using curve number values which consider five days of rainfall depth and land use/land cover slope of Yeh Sah River Basin was more comparable to the real condition.
Road Safety Analysis and Public Perception Regarding the Bridge Construction Plan: A Case Study of the Bireuen-Takengon Road Segment in Aceh
Authors: Setiawan Agus , Saleh Sofyan M. , Darma Yusria
Published: January 2024

Bener Meriah Regency has roads with a high accident rate, including the Bireuen-Takengon National Road from KM 045+000 to KM 047+000 in the Pintu Rime Gayo District. In 2022, there were 34 accidents on this road, resulting in 17 fatalities, 0 serious injuries, and 28 minor injuries. The material losses amounted to Rp. 222,000,000. This study assesses perceptions of the black spot on the road and the plan for constructing the Tajuk Enang-Enang Bridge. The research method includes a survey of geometric conditions and the distribution of questionnaires to 200 respondents. The data were analysed using factor analysis with SPSS software. The questionnaire consists of respondent characteristics and perceptions using a Likert scale with answer choices ranging from 1 to 4. The observation results indicate that many roads need to meet the standards, such as the right of way, space for monitoring roads, and road surfaces. Variable Q8 had the highest average score (3.78), while variable Q12 had the lowest average score (2.42). On average, respondents answered the questionnaire with a mean score of 3.07. The factor analysis results show that the construction of the Tajuk Enang-Enang Bridge affects the economy of the central region (variable weight of 0.825), road safety (variable weight of 0.819), and travel time (variable weight of 0.757).
Utilization of Nutmeg Shell Ash a Filler Substitution In The AC-WC Laston Mixed Layer
Authors: Andika Khairil , Kurniasari Febrina Dian , Putra M. Izwan , Yusdi  , Iqbal Muhammad , Saputra Romi , Mahyar Herri
Published: January 2024

Most of the road pavement construction used in Indonesia is flexible pavement where the material consists of coarse aggregate, fine aggregate, filler and asphalt. Currently, the fillers that are often used are rock ash, portland cement and lime. However, the filler used from these materials is relatively expensive, so there is a need for new innovations by using alternative materials that are more economical by utilizing community production waste materials in the form of nutmeg shell ash (ACP) produced from the process of burning nutmeg shells as filler. This research was conducted to determine the compressive strength of asphalt against the substitution of nutmeg shell ash (ACP) in the asphalt mixture as a partial replacement for cement with a percentage of 0%, 15%, 25%, 50%, 75%, and 100% with the number of objects The planned tests in this researchs were 75 specimen weighting 1.200 grams/specimen. The results showed that the best composition for substitution of nutmeg shell ash (ACP) and portland cement (PC) at a composition of 15% ACP and 85% PC from the results of the study obtained a stability value of 929.04 kg and Bina Marga specifications ≥ 800 kg
Analysis of Bearing Capacity and Foundation Settlement of Luan Linggi Bridge, Aceh Province, Indonesia
Authors: Hildayani Cut Sitti Rafidatul , Sungkar Munira , Yunita Halida
Published: January 2024

A bridge is a structure made to cross a ravine or obstacle such as a river, railroad, or highway. The bridge consists of an upper structure and a lower structure. The upper structure of a building must be able to be supported by its own lower structure, namely the foundation. There are two types of foundations, namely shallow foundations and deep foundations. The planning of a foundation is said to be correct if the load that is forwarded by the foundation to the ground does not exceed the strength of the soil. Luan Linggi Bridge is one of the bridges that uses deep foundations in the form of pile foundations. This bridge is located in Luan Linggi Village, East Simeulu District, Simeulue Regency, Aceh Province, Indonesia. Due to the 2004 Tsunami disaster, the bridge pillars were broken and the abutments shifted, so the bridge could no longer be used. So, the bridge was redesigned in 2015 and rebuilt in 2021. This study aims to determine the value of the bearing capacity of a single foundation, the value of the bearing capacity of the group foundation, and the foundation settlement. This research uses N-SPT data, soil physical and mechanical properties, and detailed engineering design (DED). The method used to calculate the bearing capacity of the foundation is the Luciano Decourt method, while the single foundation settlement uses the Vesic method. The results obtained from this research are the bearing capacity and settlement value of the pile foundation with a diameter of 40 cm and a depth of 22 m. The ultimate bearing capacity value of the single foundation obtained is 375,228 tons, the permit bearing capacity value of the single foundation is 125,076 tons, the bearing capacity value of the group foundation obtained is 5887,727 tons. The elastic settlement value of the foundation using the Vesic method is 2,88 cm, and the settlement value of the group foundation is 8,8 cm.
Cost and Time Comparison between Corrugated Foam Mortar Technology and Girders (Study Case on Martadinata Pamulang Flyover Project)
Authors: Riadi Henry , Sujana Caroline Maretha
Published: January 2024

A flyover builds to solve traffic problems in several areas. Girder often uses in flyover construction, but the use of Corrugated Foam Mortar Pusjatan is relatively new in Indonesia. This study aims to compare the cost and time of flyover construction using two different methods, Corrugated Foam Mortar and Girder. The comparison did for the same structural length of flyover 983.5 m. As a result, The Corrugated Foam Mortar method costs Rp. 46,463,841,131.40 and needs 201 days for completion, while the Girder costs Rp. 71,313,005,779.77 and needs 436 days. Based on the results, the Corrugated Foam Mortar method is 34% cheaper about Rp. 24,849,169,648.37 and 54% faster, with a time difference of 235 days faster than the girders. The cause of the biggest cost difference is material cost.