bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Physiological Screening of Green Gram (Vigna radiata L.) Varieties by Seedling Germination Traits under Salinity Stress
Authors: Rakavi B. , Sharanya I. T. , Sivanantham C. , Sona R. M. , Sowndarya S. , Riyaz K. Mohamed
Published: July 2022

Among the legumes, pulses are the most important component in India as they have very high protein resources. Green gram (Vigna radiata) is the most essential one when compared to other pulses regarding high nutritional value, enriching soil fertility and being a short duration crop. In India, pulses cultivation faces salinity stress which is a most constraint factor on its production. Hence, an experiment was performed with the purpose of analyzing morpho- physiological differences in high difference green gram varieties, which are MH 421,VBN 2,VBN 4,CO 8 and CO(Gg) 912 under salinity stress condition. This experiment was done at laboratory condition under various concentration level of Sodium Chloride (NaCl). These levels create different levels of salinity stress, the above five green gram varieties where screened for identifying their salinity stress and the important parameters which include radicle length, shoot length, plant height, germination percentage and seed Vigor were recorded.
Effect of Sowing Windows and Nutrient Levels on Growth Parameters of Sunnhemp (Crotalaria juncea)
Authors: Arasan A. Pon , Sanbagavalli S. , Sakthivel N. , Vigneshwari R. , Panneerselvam S. , Sangeetha S. P.
Published: July 2022

Sunnhemp is the important multifaceted legume crop which is used as fodder, fibre and green manure. While incorporation into the soil, it supplies Nitrogen, Phosphorous and Potassium at the level of 50-75 kgha-1, 15-20 kgha-1 and 40-65 kgha-1 respectively. In sunnhemp, the seed production was highly affected by improper agronomic management practices and less availability of quality seeds. Hence the present study was carried out to find the suitable agronomic practice for sunnhemp. A field experiment was conducted to study the suitable sowing windows and nutrient levels on growth parameters of sunnhemp during split-plot design with 12 treatments and replicated thrice. Three sowing dates were studied under main plots and four different nutrient levels under sub plot. Growth attributes such as plant height, leaf area index and dry matter production were recorded. From the above study, it is concluded that delayed sowing on February 2nd week and the application of nutrients at 30:60:30 NPK kg ha-1 recorded higher plant height and dry matter production at harvest over other treatments.
Impact of Different Seed Priming Methods with Bio Fertilizers and Botanicals on Growth, Yield and Yield Attributing Traits of Sweet Corn (Zea mays L.)
Authors: Narayana Kariyappa Sankar , Bara Bineeta M. , Priya Uppe Swathi
Published: July 2022

A field experiment was conducted during Rabi season of 2021-2022 at Field Experimentation Center of Department of Genetics and Plant Breeding, SHUATS, Prayagraj, U.P. The experiment was laid out in Randomized Block Design, with a view to find out the suitable Seed priming methods with bio fertilizers and botanicals on growth, yield and yield attributing traits of Sweet corn (Zea mays L.). For this purpose, 13 priming methods including control were used to study under field conditions. The results indicated that Field emergence percentage at 4,7, and 10 DAS, Plant height at 30, 45, 60 and at harvest DAS, Days to 50% Tasselling, Days to 50% Silking, Days to Maturity, Cob length (cm), Cob girth (cm), Number of cobs per plant, Number of rows per cob, Number of grains per row, Seed index (g), Seed yield per plant (g), Seed yield per plot (t/ha), Stover yield (t/h), Biological yield (t/ha) and harvest index (%), were significantly recorded highest in Azospirillum @ 30g (12 hours) followed by Azospirillum @ 20g (12 hours) when compared to other treatments. It is suggested that seed priming with Azospirillum @ 30g (12 hours) is used for improving growth, yield and yield attributing traits of sweet corn could be recommended.
Influence of Pre-sowing Seed Treatment with Bio – fertilizers on Plant Growth and Yield Attribute Traits of Mustard (Brassica nigra L.)
Authors: Reddy K. Sitarami , Bara Bineeta M. , Devi T. Uma
Published: July 2022

A set of thirteen treatments including control of seed treatments of mustard (Brassica nigraL.) with various biofertilizers were used to  evaluate the effect of different pre sowing seed treatments of bio-fertilizers on growth,yield and yield attributing traits of mustard. The treatments were evaluated in a Randomized Block Design with three replications during the rabi season, 2021-22. The present investigation was carried out at the Field Experimentation Centre of Department of Genetics and Plant Breeding, Naini Agricultural Institute, Sam Higginbottom University of Agriculture, Technology and Sciences, Naini, Prayagraj, U.P. during rabi 2021. at Naini Agriculture Institute,Naini. The data were recorded from five randomly selected plants for each treatments  in all the replications for twelve characters. Analysis of variance showed significant differences among the seed treatments for all characters indicating that the seed treatment with biofertilizers has adequate variability to support the improvement the seed yield of mustard. It is concluded that all the characters under study were significantly affected by the influence of the application of biofertilizers. Among all the biofertilizers used under the study, seed treatment with the application of vermiwash at 12% for a duration of 6 hours and observed rapid increase in field emergence, plant height, seeds per siliqua and yield characteristics.
Row Spacing, Levels of Fertilizers and Genotypes Influencing Growth, Nutrient Uptake and Yield of Sugarcane (Saccharum spp.) Grown under Calcareous Soil
Authors: Mourya Buddha Priya , Kumar Vipin
Published: July 2022

A field experiment was conducted at the crop research center of Dr. Rajendra Prasad Central Agricultural University, Pusa (Bihar) during 2020-21 to access the effect of row spacing, levels of fertilizers and genotypes on growth, nutrient uptake and yield parameters of sugarcane (Saccharum spp.) grown under calcareous soil. The experiment was laid out in factorial randomized block design with three replications. Data analysis revealed that significantly higher germination, plant population, number of millable canes, nutrient uptake and cane yield were recorded with planting at row spacing of 90 cm. Irrespective of row spacing and genotypes, application of 150% NPK of RDF exhibited higher plant population (155.2 x 103 /ha at 120 DAP and 159.0 x 103 /ha at 150 DAP), plant height (205.9 cm, 258.0 cm and 325.9 cm at 150 DAP, 180 DAP and 210 DAP, respectively), number of millable canes (123.5 x 103 /ha), length of millable canes (271.5 cm), cane diameter (2.63 cm), nutrient uptake (287.3 Kg ha-1, 28.8 Kg ha-1, 302.6 Kg ha-1 and 28.1 Kg ha-1 for N, P, K and S, respectively) and cane yield (87.4 t ha-1). Most of the growth and yield attributing characters like germination, plant population, plant height, number of millable canes, length of millable canes, cane diameter, nutrient uptake and cane yield were observed significantly higher in genotype CoP 15436. The results demonstrate that sugarcane growers may increase growth, nutrient uptake and cane yield per unit area by planting sugarcane at 90 cm spacing, applying 150% NPK of RDF (225 Kg N ha-1 : 127.5 Kg P2O5 ha-1 : 90 Kg K2O ha-1) as fertilizer input and adopting genotype CoP 15436 in cultivation practice which proved itself as an elite sugarcane genotype.
Comparative Study of Physicochemical and Acoustic Properties of Binary Liquid Mixtures of Cyclopentyl Methyl Ether with Chlorobenzene and Cyclopentyl Methyl Ether with Methyl Acrylate at 298.15 K Temperature
Authors: Dwivedi Sonu
Published: July 2022

Physicochemical and acoustic propertie of liquid mixtures give knowlegeble information behaviour and interactions studies of liquids. Ultrasonic studies in liquids and solutions provide some valuable information about the structure and interaction in such systems. Ultrasonic velocity and density have been proved to be important properties to test the validity of liquid state model. The ultrasonic velocity (U) and density (ρ) of the binary liquid mixtures Chlorobenzene (polar)+Cyclopentyl methyl ether (nonpolar) [system I] and Methyl acrylate (polar) +Cyclopentyl methyl ether (nonpolar) [system II] are measured at 298.15 K temp. with pure components. With the help of these measured properties are calculated excess acoustic parameters using standard relations. Excess acoustic parameters are used as a qualitative and quantitative analysis in multicomponent liquid mixtures. The sign and magnitude of excess parameters provided information of different type interactions. Structural chemistry is related to the interactions involved in the liquid systems. structural effects also define nature and bonding of both liquid mixture system I and II.
Health Care Associated Infections
Authors: Onosakponome Evelyn Orevaoghene , Nyenke Clement Ugochukwu , Okafor Roseanne Adah
Published: July 2022

An infection that can be acquired in the hospital or other clinical settings is known as a health care associated infection. It is a major cause of morbidity and mortality among hospitalized patients. It is also one of the factors that contribute to the rising cost of hospital care. According to the CDC, around 1.7 million health care associated infections occur globally each year, which contributes to around 99,000 deaths. Some of these infections are surgical site infections, bloodstream infections, and urinary tract infections. Healthcare related infection can include uncomfortable urination, fever, vomiting, breathing difficulties, skin redness, and discharge from surgical sites. These diseases are transmitted by a variety of means, including damaged skin, mucous membranes, and respiratory pathways. Microbial agents like viruses, bacteria, parasites, and fungi, environmental factors like crowded conditions, patient factors like age, immune status, underlying disease, and diagnostic procedures like endoscopy, catheterization, mechanical ventilation, as well as other surgical procedures, are among the risk factors that predispose one to health care associated infection. Utilizing the relevant specimens, these infections can be identified in the laboratory utilizing microscopy, culture, and serological based tests. Personal hygiene, frequent hand washing, sterilization, disinfection, and proper waste disposal can all help avoid illnesses that are related to healthcare. It is thought that hospital-acquired infections can be controlled and mostly eliminated if they are dealt with methodically and properly, making hospitals safer and more efficient.
Reflective Practice on Social Loafing in College-Level Group Projects
Authors:   University of Houston - Downtown, Sherif Dalia
Published: July 2022

While reflecting on my teaching strategies and researching social loafing for my dissertation, I realized this endeavor has given me a stronger grasp of the pedagogical approaches to facilitate cooperative learning. Observing, sharing, and reflecting on specific social loafing experiences using Gibbs’ reflective framework allowed me, with time, to better conceptualize the dynamics of university-level group projects. Leveraging my experience and insightful research analysis on group dysfunctionalities inside and outside the classroom has gradually reshaped my understanding of the social loafing phenomenon. Nurturing my professional development through this reflective practice allowed me to create an ongoing coaching relationship with students (and later with faculty), and to generate a list of best practices for cooperative learning that can result in higher group achievements and improved learning outcomes.
An experimental study on the influence of incident characteristics on sound insulation between rooms: Study on the incident sound field in the insulation performance measurement for partition walls. Part 2
Authors: Aida Yu , Inoue Naohisa , Sakuma Tetsuya
Published: July 2022

The sound field characteristics due to room modes are considered to have strong influences on the low‐frequency sound insulation between rooms in field. In this paper, the sound field analysis using the propagation mode expansion method proposed by the authors was applied to the test rooms where the dwelling rooms and the separating wall of an RC apartment building were reproduced. First, the proposed method was validated through the reconstruction of the expanded sound fields and the measurement of the incident directivity. Next, the comparison of the multiple geometries of the source room with two finishing conditions of the RC separating wall demonstrated the influence of the incident sound field on the sound insulation. The mechanism of the sound insulation between rooms was investigated using the proposed method. For the RC single wall, the sound field analysis showed an influence of mode matching between rooms on the low‐frequency transmitted sound. For the composite wall which was composed of the RC separating wall and the additional linings, it was demonstrated that the low‐frequency resonance transmission phenomenon is affected by the matching of the oblique incidence resonance frequency of the wall and the incident characteristics.
Design of auxiliary model and hierarchical normalized fractional adaptive algorithms for parameter estimation of bilinear‐in‐parameter systems
Authors: Zhu Yancheng , Wu Huaiyu , Chen Zhihuan , Chen Yang , Zheng Xiujuan
Published: July 2022

This study investigates the parameter identification issues of bilinear‐in‐parameter systems through fractional adaptive algorithms. An auxiliary model based modified fractional least mean square algorithm is proposed for accelerating the parameter estimation accuracy based on the auxiliary model identification idea and the introduced convergence index, a normalized modified hierarchical fractional least mean square algorithm is presented for improving the computational efficiency based on the hierarchical identification principle. The proposed normalized fractional adaptive strategies are effective and could provide more accurate parameter estimates comparing with conventional counterparts for bilinear‐in‐parameter identification model based on the mean square error metrics and the average predicted output error. The effectiveness and accuracy of the proposed algorithms are further verified and validated through numerical simulations for different noise variances, fractional orders and gain parameters.
Tackling Disorder in γ‐Ga2O3
Authors: Ratcliff Laura E. , Oshima Takayoshi , Nippert Felix , Janzen Benjamin M. , Kluth Elias , Goldhahn Rüdiger , Feneberg Martin , Mazzolini Piero , Bierwagen Oliver , Wouters Charlotte , Nofal Musbah , Albrecht Martin , Swallow Jack E. N. , Jones Leanne A. H. , Thakur Pardeep K. , Lee Tien‐Lin , Kalha Curran , Schlueter Christoph , Veal Tim D. , Varley Joel B. , Wagner Markus R. , Regoutz Anna
Published: July 2022

Ga2O3 and its polymorphs are attracting increasing attention. The rich structural space of polymorphic oxide systems such as Ga2O3 offers potential for electronic structure engineering, which is of particular interest for a range of applications, such as power electronics. γ‐Ga2O3 presents a particular challenge across synthesis, characterization, and theory due to its inherent disorder and resulting complex structure–electronic‐structure relationship. Here, density functional theory is used in combination with a machine‐learning approach to screen nearly one million potential structures, thereby developing a robust atomistic model of the γ‐phase. Theoretical results are compared with surface and bulk sensitive soft and hard X‐ray photoelectron spectroscopy, X‐ray absorption spectroscopy, spectroscopic ellipsometry, and photoluminescence excitation spectroscopy experiments representative of the occupied and unoccupied states of γ‐Ga2O3. The first onset of strong absorption at room temperature is found at 5.1 eV from spectroscopic ellipsometry, which agrees well with the excitation maximum at 5.17 eV obtained by photoluminescence excitation spectroscopy, where the latter shifts to 5.33 eV at 5 K. This work presents a leap forward in the treatment of complex, disordered oxides and is a crucial step toward exploring how their electronic structure can be understood in terms of local coordination and overall structure.
Controllable Heterogenous Seeding‐Induced Crystallization for High‐Efficiency FAPbI3‐Based Perovskite Solar Cells Over 24%
Authors: Zhang Hengkai , Ren Zhiwei , Liu Kuan , Qin Minchao , Wu Zehan , Shen Dong , Zhang Yaokang , Chandran Hrisheekesh Thachoth , Hao Jianhua , Lee Chun‐sing , Lu Xinhui , Zheng Zijian , Huang Jinsong , Li Gang
Published: July 2022

The addition of small seeding particles into a supersaturated solution is one among the most effective approaches to obtain high‐quality semiconductor materials via increased crystallization rates. However, limited study is conducted on this approach for the fabrication of perovskite solar cells. Here, a new strategy—“heterogenous seeding‐induced crystallization (hetero‐SiC)” to assist the growth of FAPbI3‐based perovskite is proposed. In this work, di‐tert‐butyl(methyl)phosphonium tetrafluoroborate is directly introduced into the precursor, which forms a low‐solubility complex with PbI2. The low‐solubility complex can serve as the seed to induce crystallization of the perovskite during the solvent‐evaporation process. Various in situ measurement tools are used to visualize the hetero‐SiC process, which is shown to be an effective way of manipulating the nucleation and crystal growth of perovskites. The hetero‐SiC process greatly improves the film quality, reduces film defects, and suppresses nonradiative recombination. A hetero‐SIC proof‐of‐concept device exhibits outstanding performance with 24.0% power conversion efficiency (PCE), well over the control device with 22.2% PCE. Additionally, hetero‐SiC perovskite solar cell (PSC) stability under light illumination is enhanced and the PSC retains 84% of its initial performance after 1400 h of light illumination.
Unlocking Interfacial Electron Transfer of Ruthenium Phosphides by Homologous Core–Shell Design toward Efficient Hydrogen Evolution and Oxidation
Authors: Du Hongfang , Du Zhuzhu , Wang Tingfeng , Li Boxin , He Song , Wang Ke , Xie Linghai , Ai Wei , Huang Wei
Published: July 2022

Developing high‐efficiency electrocatalysts for the hydrogen evolution and oxidation reactions (HER/HOR) in alkaline electrolytes is of critical importance for realizing renewable hydrogen technologies. Ruthenium phosphides (RuPx) are promising candidates to substitute Pt‐based electrodes; however, great challenges still remain in their electronic structure regulation for optimizing intermediate adsorption. Herein, it is reported that a homologous RuP@RuP2 core–shell architecture constructed by a phosphatization‐controlled phase‐transformation strategy enables strong electron coupling for optimal intermediate adsorption by virtue of the emergent interfacial functionality. Density functional theory calculations show that the RuP core and RuP2 shell present efficient electron transfer, leading to a close to thermoneutral hydrogen adsorption Gibbs free energy of 0.04 eV. Impressively, the resulting material exhibits superior HER/HOR activities in alkaline media, which outperform the benchmark Pt/C and are among the best reported bifunctional hydrogen electrocatalysts. The present work not only provides an efficient and cost‐effective bifunctional hydrogen electrocatalyst, but also offers a new synthetic protocol to rationally synthesize homologous core–shell nanostructures for widespread applications.
Mesoporous Silica Materials as an Emerging Tool for Cancer Immunotherapy
Authors: Escriche‐Navarro Blanca , Escudero Andrea , Lucena‐Sánchez Elena , Sancenón Félix , García‐Fernández Alba , Martínez‐Máñez Ramón
Published: July 2022

Cancer immunotherapy has emerged in the past decade as a promising strategy for treating many forms of cancer by stimulating the patient's immune system. Although immunotherapy has achieved some promising results in clinics, more efforts are required to improve the limitations of current treatments related to lack of effective and targeted cancer antigens delivery to immune cells, dose‐limiting toxicity, and immune‐mediated adverse effects, among others. In recent years, the use of nanomaterials has proven promising to enhance cancer immunotherapy efficacy and reduce side effects. Among nanomaterials, attention has been recently paid to mesoporous silica nanoparticles (MSNs) as a potential multiplatform for enhancing cancer immunotherapy by considering their unique properties, such as high porosity, and good biocompatibility, facile surface modification, and self‐adjuvanticity. This review explores the role of MSN and other nano/micro‐materials as an emerging tool to enhance cancer immunotherapy, and it comprehensively summarizes the different immunotherapeutic strategies addressed to date by using MSN.
Muscle‐Inspired Linear Actuators by Electrochemical Oxidation of Liquid Metal Bridges
Authors: Liao Jiahe , Majidi Carmel
Published: July 2022

Progress in artificial muscles relies on new architectures that combine soft matter with transduction mechanisms for converting controlled stimuli into mechanical work. Liquid metal, in particular eutectic gallium–indium (EGaIn), is promising for creating an artificial muscle since it is intrinsically deformable and capable of generating significant force and shape change through low voltage stimulation. In this work, a muscle‐inspired structure for designing liquid metal actuators is presented, where EGaIn droplets are configured with copper pads to linearly contract. By theory and experiments, it is demonstrated that this design enables higher work densities and stress, making it a favorable actuator at smaller length scales. Furthermore, higher frequency (up to 5 Hz) operation is achieved by prestretching an antagonistic pair of actuators, where energy bistability enables fast‐switching actuation. Overall, this muscle‐inspired architecture shows a unique combination of low voltage operation, higher energy density at smaller scales, structural scalability, and higher frequency actuation.
McIntyre Powder and its potential contributions to cardiovascular disease risk: A literature review through the McIntyre Powder historical lens
Authors: Zarnke Andrew , Oliver Christine , Dorman Sandra
Published: July 2022

McIntyre Powder (MP) is a fine aluminum powder that was developed to prevent silicosis in gold and uranium mine workers in Ontario, Canada, and was administered to miners there from 1943 to 1979. Mine workers were exposed to high concentrations (35.6 mg/m3) of MP for approximately 10 min before every work shift. Contemporary physical and chemical characterizations of this powder have revealed that 12% of the powder is in the ultrafine particle size‐range (nanoparticles); and the remaining 88%, in the fine particulate size range (below 2.5 µm in diameter). The confluence of ultrafine particulate (UFP) composition and high airborne concentration of MP would be expected to overwhelm the defense mechanisms of the lung and increase the lung dust burden of the mine worker exposed to respirable dust in the mine. Published studies revealing associations between air pollution particulates and increased risk for cardiovascular disease (CVD) shown a dose–response relationship with ambient PM2.5 and UFP and suggest that miners exposed to MP may also be at increased risk of CVD. The historical perspective of the use of MP in northern Ontario hard‐rock mines and its potential implications for CVD in exposed mine workers are discussed.
Prognostic Discussion for Infants with Neurologic Conditions: Qualitative Analysis of Family Conferences
Authors: Lemmon Monica E. , Barks Mary C. , Bernstein Sarah , Davis J. Kelly , Jiao Megan G. , Kaye Erica C. , Glass Hannah C. , Brandon Debra , Ubel Peter A.
Published: July 2022

Objective

We characterize the content and role of prognostic discussion for infants with neurologic conditions.

Methods

In this descriptive qualitative study, we prospectively enrolled infants (age < 1 year) in the intensive care unit with a neurologic condition anticipated to have ≥1 family conference about prognosis or goals of care. We audiorecorded family conferences as they occurred. We used a rapid‐cycle qualitative approach to identify and refine themes.

Results

Forty infants and 61 parents were enrolled; 68 family conferences occurred for 24 infants. The majority of infant cases (n = 23/24, 96%) and conferences (n = 64/68, 94%) included discussion of neurologic prognosis. Common infant diagnoses included prematurity (n = 12, 52%), genetic conditions (n = 9, 35%), and brain malformations (n = 7, 30%). We identified 2 themes relating to the characterization of the infant's prognosis: (1) predictions of impairment and (2) rationale for prognostic predictions. We identified 3 themes characterizing the role of prognostic discussion: (1) aligning parent and clinician understanding of infant outcome, (2) influencing decision‐making, and (3) preparing for life at home. We identified 2 themes characterizing discussion of prognostic uncertainty: (1) multilayered types of uncertainty and (2) holding space for hope alongside uncertainty.

Interpretation

In this cohort of infants with neurologic conditions and their parents, we identified salient themes characterizing the content and role of discussion about neurologic outcome. Our findings highlight that prognostic discussion focuses on anticipated impairments, informs decision‐making, and helps families prepare for home life. Future work should characterize whether these findings align with parent preferences for prognostic disclosure. ANN NEUROL 2022;92:699–709
Fully Conjugated Poly(phthalocyanine) Scaffolds Derived from a Mechanochemical Approach Towards Enhanced Energy Storage
Authors: Fan Juntian , Wang Tao , Thapaliya Bishnu P. , Qiu Liqi , Li Meijia , Wang Zongyu , Kobayashi Takeshi , Popovs Ilja , Yang Zhenzhen , Dai Sheng
Published: July 2022

Phthalocyanines (Pc)‐derived materials represent an attractive category of porous organic scaffolds featured by extensive π‐conjugated networks, but their construction is still limited to the solution‐based pathways, producing materials with inferior conductivity and porosity. Herein, a mechanochemistry‐driven approach was developed leveraging the on‐surface polymerization of aromatic nitrile monomers with ortho‐positioned dicyano groups in the presence of metal catalysts (magnesium, zinc, or aluminum) under neat and ambient conditions. Diverse Pc‐functionalized conjugated porous networks (Pc‐CPNs) were obtained featured by extensively and fully π‐conjugated skeletons, high surface areas, and hierarchical porosities. The monomers in this mechanochemical approach could be extended to those difficult to be handled in solution‐based procedures. The Pc‐CPNs displayed attractive electrochemical performance as supercapacitor and anodes in batteries, together with superb long‐term stability.
Facile Benzylic Alkylation of Arenes with Alcohols by Catalysis with Spirocyclic NHC IrIII Pincer Complex
Authors: Dai Kun‐Long , Chen Qi‐Long , Xie Wen‐Ping , Lu Ka , Yan Zhi‐Bo , Peng Meng , Li Chang‐Kun , Tu Yong‐Qiang , Ding Tong‐Mei
Published: July 2022

A facile benzylic alkylation of indenes and other arenes was developed from readily available primary and secondary alcohols using our newly investigated CCC pincer IrIII catalyst (SNIr−H). Excellent regioselectivity and yield (89 %) of the C3‐alkylated indenes were obtained. Additionally, the challenging sp2C‐alkylation was readily accomplished. This method could be utilized for the synthesis of the analogs of a histamine H1 receptor antagonist and the functional material template molecule, indeno[2,1‐a]indene. A hemilabile IrIII‐dihydride intermediate was proposed based on control experiments and previous density functional theory (DFT) calculations for the borrowing hydrogen mechanism and is key to the success of this IrIII catalyst in the reduction of unactivated multi‐substituted olefin intermediates.
High mechanical strength and low ablation rate of phenolic resin composites incorporated with polyhedral oligomeric silsesquioxane‐modified graphene oxide
Authors: Ma Shiye , Dong Yubing , He Jiyu , Yang Rongjie
Published: July 2022

Hybrid composites of phenolic resin are prepared by incorporating graphene oxide (GO) functionalized with aminophenyl silsesquioxane (NH2‐OPS) for different functionalities. The covalent grafting of NH2‐POSS to GO is favorable for its homogeneous dispersion in the polymer matrix. For this purpose, GO is modified with NH2‐OPS to obtain GO‐3NH2‐OPS (GP‐3), GO‐5NH2‐OPS (GP‐5), GO‐8NH2‐OPS (GP‐8), according to the functionality of NH2‐OPS, respectively. The GP samples are then incorporated into phenolic resin (PR) to obtain PR/GP composites. The successful modification for GO with NH2‐OPS is confirmed by Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy, scanning electron microscopy, X‐ray photoelectron spectroscopy and specific surface and pore size analysis. The thermogravimetric analysis results show that the thermal stabilities of GP‐3, GP‐5 and GP‐8 are significantly increased compared with pure GO. Furthermore, the mechanical and ablative properties of the PR/GP composites are effectively enhanced. In particular, with the addition of 0.5 wt% GP‐5, the linear ablation rate of the PR/GP‐5 composite is reduced by 55.5% from 0.128 to 0.057 mm/s and the flexural strength is increased by 80.6% from 47.74 to 86.23 MPa, compared with pure PR.
Sequential electrolysis and reverse osmosis to improve arsenic removal from water
Authors: Hou Yizhi , Mayer Brooke K.
Published: July 2022

Reverse osmosis (RO) typically removes >98% arsenate (As[V]) but removes arsenite (As[III]) comparatively poorly (approximately 50%–80%). Therefore, oxidizing As(III) to As(V) can improve arsenic removal using RO. In this study, electrolytic oxidation was used to oxidize As(III) in the feed water, and an extreme low‐pressure RO membrane was subsequently used to remove the arsenic. Using Ti/IrO2 electrodes under 30 mA DC current in 500 mg/L NaCl solution primarily generated free chlorine, which completely oxidized 300 μg/L As(III) to As(V). Subsequent arsenic removal by RO increased from 54.2% without oxidation to 98.2% with oxidation. Using electrolysis‐RO, arsenic removal significantly increased beyond RO alone, even in the presence of ferrous iron and natural organic matter. When sulfide and As(III) are present in water, they react to produce thioarsenate ions, the formation of which increased As(III) removal to 90% without electrolytic oxidation and electrolytic oxidation did not improve arsenic removal beyond these levels.
Brückennachrechnung mit erweiterten Nachweisen zur Querkrafttragfähigkeit im Haupttragsystem
Authors: Hegger Josef , Schmidt Maximilian , Adam Viviane
Published: July 2022

Die ungünstige Altersstruktur der Bundesfernstraßen in Deutschland und die erhebliche Zunahme des Güterverkehrs sind die wesentlichen Gründe für den allgemein schlechten Gesamtzustand zahlreicher Brückenbauwerke. Zusätzlich ergeben sich durch die Weiterentwicklung der Normen in Verbindung mit den Eurocodes häufig rechnerische Defizite. Genauere Nachweisformate bietet die Stufe 2 der Nachrechnungsrichtlinie an, die 2011 erstmals erschienen ist und 2015 ergänzt wurde. Neuere Erkenntnisse zum Querkrafttragverhalten von Spannbetonbrücken mit geringen Querkraftbewehrungsgraden im Bereich von ρw,min bilden die Grundlage für die 2. Ergänzung der Nachrechnungsrichtlinie, die in der BEM‐ING Teil 2 erscheinen wird. Zur Bewertung der Querkrafttragfähigkeit des Hauptsystems wird ein erweitertes Fachwerkmodell mit additivem Betontraganteil eingeführt, das im Folgenden erläutert und anhand von zwei Fallbeispielen vorgestellt wird.
Dosimetric properties of thermoluminescent NaCl pellets from Khewra Salt Mines, Pakistan
Authors: Ahmad Khalil , Kakakhel Muhammad Basim , Hayat Sikander , Wazir‐ud‐Din Mirza , Mahmood Muhammad Masood , ur‐Rehman Shakeel , Siddique Muhammad Tariq , Munir Muhammad , Mirza Sikander Majid
Published: July 2022

Thermoluminescence (TL) and extended dosimetric characteristics of naturally occurring sodium chloride (NaCl) salt were studied. Pellets were prepared from mined crystalline salt obtained from Khewra Salt Mines, Pakistan and irradiated from 1 mGy to 10,000 mGy using cobalt‐60 gamma source. The TL response showed two dominant peaks around 125°C and 230°C, respectively, at low doses, with an additional peak in between at doses beyond 300 mGy. A linear and supra‐linear TL response was observed between 1 mGy–100 mGy and 100 mGy–10 Gy dose ranges, respectively. During the first 24 h post‐irradiation, the TL intensity dropped by 20%. A maximum angular dependence of up to 50% was observed between 0° to 360°. For photon energies between 33 keV and 1.25 MeV significant energy dependence was observed for photons < 100 keV only. Sample sensitivity increased with dose a qualitatively similar behaviour to TLD‐200. Effective atomic number (Zeff) of the sample (14.6) was comparable to TLD‐200 (16.3). No significant dose rate effects (deviation for a cobalt‐60 source within 3.5%) on the TL sensitivity of the sample were found. The lowest detectable dose limit (LDDL) for salt sample was found to be 0.8 mGy whereas the sample reproducibility test showed a maximum of ±11% deviation from the first value.
The use of isothermal titration calorimetry for the assay of enzyme activity: Application in higher education practical classes
Authors: Siddiqui Khawar S. , Poljak Anne , Ertan Haluk , Bridge Wallace
Published: July 2022

Determination of enzyme activity is crucial for discovery, research, and development in life sciences. The activity of enzymes is routinely determined using spectrophotometric assays that measure rates of substrate consumption or product formation. Though colorimetric‐based detection systems are simple, rapid, and economical to perform, the majority of enzymes are unsuitable for this technique as their substrates/products do not absorb in the UV or visible range. This limitation can be addressed by the use of coupled‐enzyme assays or artificial chromogenic substrates; however these approaches have their own drawbacks. Here, we describe a method based on the use of an isothermal titration calorimeter (ITC) to measure the heat produced or absorbed during any enzyme‐catalyzed reaction. The concept of calorimetric enzyme assays was demonstrated for the determination of enzyme hexokinase activity, which cannot be monitored colorimetrically without first coupling it to another enzymatic reaction. The assay is suitable for incorporation into undergraduate laboratory classes, providing students with an appreciation for; the versatility and ease of use of ITC assays; ITC as a flexible generic method for exploring the functional characteristics of uncharacterized enzymes; an activity detection parameter suitable for enzymes that either have no straightforward colorimetric methods available or require the use of nonartificial chromogenic substrates.
Synthesis of a Peptidoyl RNA Hairpin via a Combination of Solid‐Phase and Template‐Directed Chain Assembly
Authors: Bremer Jennifer , Richter Christian , Schwalbe Harald , Richert Clemens
Published: July 2022

Peptidoyl RNAs are the products of ribosome‐free, single‐nucleotide translation. They contain a peptide in the backbone of the oligoribonucleotide and are interesting from a synthetic and a bioorganic point of view. A synthesis of a stabilized version of peptidoyl RNA, with an amide bond between the C‐terminus of a peptide and a 3′‐amino‐2′,3′‐dideoxynucleoside in the RNA chain was developed. The preferred synthetic route used an N‐Teoc‐protected aminonucleoside support and involved a solution‐phase coupling of the amino‐terminal oligonucleotide to a dipeptido dinucleotide. Exploratory UV‐melting and NMR analysis of the hairpin 5′‐UUGGCGAAAGCdC‐LeuLeu‐AA‐3′ indicated that the peptide‐linked RNA segments do not fold in a cooperative fashion. The synthetic access to doubly RNA‐linked peptides on a scale sufficient for structural biology opens the door to the exploration of their structural and biochemical properties.
Optimal Small Scale Equidistribution of Lattice Points on the Sphere, Heegner Points, and Closed Geodesics
Authors: Humphries Peter , Radziwiłł Maksym
Published: July 2022

We asymptotically estimate the variance of the number of lattice points in a thin, randomly rotated annulus lying on the surface of the sphere. This partially resolves a conjecture of Bourgain, Rudnick, and Sarnak. We also obtain estimates that are valid for all balls and annuli that are not too small. Our results have several consequences: for a conjecture of Linnik on sums of two squares and a “microsquare”, a conjecture of Bourgain and Rudnick on the number of lattice points lying in small balls on the surface of the sphere, the covering radius of the sphere, and the distribution of lattice points in almost all thin regions lying on the surface of the sphere. Finally, we show that for a density 1. subsequence of squarefree integers, the variance exhibits a different asymptotic behaviour for balls of volume with .

We also obtain analogous results for Heegner points and closed geodesics. Interestingly, we are able to prove some slightly stronger results for closed geodesics than for Heegner points or lattice points on the surface of the sphere. A crucial observation that underpins our proof is the different behaviour of weighting functions for annuli and for balls. © 2022 Courant Institute of Mathematics and Wiley Periodicals LLC.
Accurate predictions of barley phenotypes using genomewide markers and environmental covariates
Authors: Neyhart Jeffrey L. , Silverstein Kevin A. T. , Smith Kevin P.
Published: July 2022

Predicting the performance of new plant genotypes under new environmental conditions could accelerate the development of locally adapted and climate resilient cultivars. Enabling these predictions may rely on extending the genomewide prediction framework to include environmental covariates (EC), but such models have generally been tested under limited, less breeding‐realistic contexts. Using a barley (Hordeum vulgare L.) multi‐environment dataset, our objectives were to compare multi‐environment prediction models and scenarios that target genotypes from different breeding generations, use different levels and timescales of ECs, and are applied to different agronomic and quality traits. When predicting the phenotypes of previously tested genotypes in untested environments, models that included the interaction of genomewide markers and pre‐selected in‐season ECs resulted in more accurate predictions (rMG or rMP) within (rMG = 0.56–0.94) and across (rMP = 0.63–0.87) environments; similar accuracy was achieved within (rMP = 0.46–0.89) and across (rMP = 0.87–0.95) locations when using only ECs from realistically available historical climate data. Shifting the prediction target to a distinct, untested offspring population slightly reduced model performance within environments or locations, but rMP across environments (rMP = 0.60–0.86) or locations (rMP = 0.87–0.94) remained very high. Though we achieved moderately high rMP for most traits in the challenging scenario of predicting the offspring population in holdout environments, the similarity between training and target environments, like that between populations, will be a limiting factor for enabling accurate predictions of new genotypes under new growing conditions.
A power analysis for detecting aging of dry‐stored soybean seeds: Germination versus RNA integrity assessments
Authors: Tetreault Hannah , Fleming Margaret , Hill Lisa , Dorr Emma , Yeater Kathleen , Richards Christopher , Walters Christina
Published: July 2022

Deterioration of seed during dry storage is a major problem for genebanks and seed companies. Germination tests are the gold standard to monitor seed viability; however, these prove to be insensitive during the early stage of storage when viability changes are subtle. Recent findings demonstrate that decline in RNA integrity may be an early indicator of seed longevity during dry storage. The goal of this study was to determine the sensitivity of RNA integrity, measured as RNA integrity number (RIN), regarding how soon changes can be detected and how many seeds are required. We compared the statistical power of germination and RIN assays using a well‐characterized collection of ‘Williams 82’ soybean seeds, with cohorts harvested between 1989 and 2019 and stored at 5 °C. Germination was monitored in 1‐ to 3‐yr intervals since 1989, and RIN was monitored in 1‐ to 2‐yr intervals since 2016 providing an extensive dataset to conduct statistical power analyses. Decline in RIN can be detected in soybean seeds within 10 yr with a RNA monitor test that consumes approximately 30 seeds. In contrast, a germination test detects deterioration in 16 yr using approximately 50 seeds, and by this time, the seed lot is near the limit of longevity and has entered the phase of rapid mortality. Work from this study indicates that early detection of aging using RIN decline can be used to predict the longevity threshold to optimize viability monitoring and regeneration times, preventing loss of valuable samples by overtesting or missing the longevity threshold.
Experimental evaluation of type‐2 fuzzy logic controller adapted to real environmental conditions for maximum power point tracking of solar energy systems
Authors: Gani Ahmet , Sekkeli Mustafa
Published: July 2022

The conventional angle of incremental conductance (AIC) method fails to track the maximum power point (MPP) when a rapid change in solar irradiation and/or panel temperature appears because it cannot distinguish between rapid changes in photovoltaic (PV) current and voltage under real environmental conditions. The present study describes setbacks of the conventional AIC method and proposes an effective approach based on the combination of AIC and type‐2 fuzzy. The proposed approach offers a significant advantage in terms of maximum power transfer to the load under long‐term weather patterns under which broken clouds appear frequently during a 40‐m testing period. The proposed approach is installed on 250 W module of a 10 kWp real PV plant in Kahramanmaras Sutcu Imam University. Later, its performance is validated by dSPACE1104 controller card operating in real time with MATLAB/Simulink tools using daily measured data. The experimental results obtained from the laboratory setup based on dSPACE1104 controller card demonstrate the facility and feasibility of the proposed approach for real PV plant with boost power converter and load.
Filtered X least mean fourth‐driven intelligent control for power quality augmentation and dynamic stability reinforcement of grid intertie wind–photovoltaic systems
Authors: Nazir Masood Ibni , Ahmad Aijaz , Hussain Ikhlaq
Published: July 2022

An advanced topology comprising a wind‐turbine driven synchronous generator (SG) and solar photovoltaic (PV) array to address the power quality (PQ) concerns and the uncertainty in renewable energy generation is proposed in this paper. The fluctuations in wind speed and insolation are soaked up by utilizing successively interfaced power electronic converters (PECs), namely, SG side converter (SGC) and utility grid side converter (UGC) integrated with a DC link capacitor and a PV array. SGC is controlled by estimating the rotor position from the stator voltage and current measurement data and maintains unity power factor (UPF) at stator terminals. UGC is controlled by employing filtered X least mean fourth (FXLMF) control, which ensures superior convergence performance and reduced computational complexity. Besides, it performs operations like reactive power compensation, enhancement of PQ, load and power balancing during steady‐state and dynamic conditions. The notion of optimal fuzzy reasoning is instilled which generates a fuzzy scheme with inherent optimal‐tuning characteristics to bring about considerable improvement in system performance. A water cycle algorithm (WCA) tuned fuzzy logic controller (FLC) is employed for dynamic stability enhancement leading to the generation of accurate loss component,
, which bolsters the ability of VSC to accurately extricate weight signals and the fundamental load current component. This improves regulation of DC link voltage during dynamic load, insolation and wind conditions. The veracity of the proposed model is verified under wind gusts and the bell‐shaped irradiance curve. Extensive simulation results obtained in MATLAB corroborate the efficacy of the system.
A New Voltammetric Approach for the Determination of Biomimetic Catalyst Kinetic Constants Based on Substrate Consumption
Authors: Mikysek Tomáš , Frühbauerová Michaela , Švancara Ivan , Novák Miroslav , Sýs Milan
Published: July 2022

In the present study, a new voltammetric method is introduced for the determination of kinetic parameters of artificial metalloenzymes (biomimetic complexes) mimicking the catecholase activity towards 3,5‐di‐tert‐butylcatechol (3,5‐DTBC) or 2,5‐di‐tert‐butylhydroquinone, and representing a promising alternative to common spectrophotometric method. To demonstrate the effectiveness of the electrochemical approach, two binuclear copper(II) complexes bearing the same pentadentate ligand and different ionic ligands were selected. Apparent kinetic parameters, such as maximum velocity (Vmax), Michaelis‐Menten constant (Km), and turnover number (kcat), obtained by the described method employing differential‐pulse voltammetry were in good agreement with the data evaluated from UV‐Vis spectrophotometric measurements.
Interspecific variation in cooperative burrowing behavior byPeromyscusmice
Authors: Bedford Nicole L. , Weber Jesse N. , Tong Wenfei , Baier Felix , Kam Ariana , Greenberg Rebecca A. , Hoekstra Hopi E.
Published: July 2022

Animals often adjust their behavior according to social context, but the capacity for such behavioral flexibility can vary among species. Here, we test for interspecific variation in behavioral flexibility by comparing burrowing behavior across three species of deer mice (genus Peromyscus) with divergent social systems, ranging from promiscuous (Peromyscus leucopus and Peromyscus maniculatus) to monogamous (Peromyscus polionotus). First, we compared the burrows built by individual mice to those built by pairs of mice in all three species. Although burrow length did not differ in P. leucopus or P. maniculatus, we found that P. polionotus pairs cooperatively constructed burrows that were nearly twice as long as those built by individuals and that opposite-sex pairs dug longer burrows than same-sex pairs. Second, to directly observe cooperative digging behavior in P. polionotus, we designed a burrowing assay in which we could video-record active digging in narrow, transparent enclosures. Using this novel assay, we found, unexpectedly, that neither males nor females spent more time digging with an opposite-sex partner. Rather, we demonstrate that opposite-sex pairs are more socially cohesive and thus more efficient digging partners than same-sex pairs. Together, our study demonstrates how social context can modulate innate behavior and offers insight into how differences in behavioral flexibility may evolve among closely related species.
Estimation of short‐run predictive factor for US growth using state employment data
Authors: Basistha Arabinda
Published: July 2022

We estimate a predictive single factor model targeted to unobserved common growth in gross domestic product and gross domestic income (GDI) using a state‐space framework with select state employment data. We use likelihood‐based comparison to select the states to estimate the dynamic factor. The results show improved in‐sample and out‐of‐sample performance than threshold principal component factors and financial spreads. Out‐of‐sample evaluations indicate larger gains for GDI growth with 14% to 20% lower mean squared forecast errors than other alternatives. Sectoral employment factors based on selected sectors using the state‐space framework also show forecasting gains. An expanded model using both sectoral and state employment data shows that their common component is the primary predictive factor.