bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Synergistic adsorption of ethyl xanthate and butyl xanthate on pyrite surfaces: A DFT study
Authors: Feng Xinglong , Jian Sheng , Chen Huimin , Chen Jianhua
Published: July 2024

Pyrite is the most widely distributed sulfide mineral with a wide range of uses, and pyrite is mainly recovered by means of flotation in practical production, and the commonly used flotation collectors are mainly xanthates with good flotation performance. The adsorption behavior of commonly used collectors ethyl xanthate and butyl xanthate on the surface of pyrite is investigated by using the density functional tight bounding theory (DFTB). The results show that when a single reagent acts on the pyrite surface, butyl xanthate has a stronger effect than ethyl xanthate, and the adsorbed mineral surface shows obvious hydrophobicity. The interaction between ethyl xanthate and butyl xanthate had a stronger effect than that of a single reagent, and the simulation of the flotation environment at ordinary temperature using molecular dynamics revealed that the synergistic adsorption of the two different reagents on the surface of pyrite was more hydrophobic, that is, the synergistic adsorption of the combined collector of ethyl xanthate and butyl xanthate on the surface of pyrite was stronger. The results of the study are of great significance for the synergistic effect between the combined collector and the mineral.
Ultrasound‐induced circularly polarized luminescence based on homochiral aggregation of clothespin‐shaped Pt(II) complexes
Authors: Ikeshita Masahiro , Takahashi Koichi , Hara Nobuyuki , Kawamorita Soichiro , Komiya Naruyoshi , Imai Yoshitane , Naota Takeshi
Published: July 2024

Ultrasound‐induced circularly polarized luminescence (CPL) was achieved using planar chiral, binuclear clothespin‐shaped trans‐bis(salicylaldiminato)platinum(II) complexes. Solutions of the clothespin‐shaped platinum(II) complexes anti‐1a–c in cyclohexane immediately transformed into stable gels upon brief ultrasound irradiation. The ultrasound gels exhibited intense phosphorescent emissions at room temperature, whereas none of the solution exhibited significant emissions under UV light illumination. Interestingly, gels prepared from optically pure complexes exhibited CPL activity at room temperature with an anisotropy factor of |glum| = 1.5–2.6 × 10−3. The emissive gels were readily converted to the original non‐emissive solution upon heating and cooling to room temperature and could be gelled again by ultrasound irradiation. In addition, chromogenic control from green to red emission can be achieved simply by introducing MeO groups at different positions on the aromatic rings.
Discover how resolving conflict becomes act of commitment
Authors: Freebairn‐Smith Laura
Published: July 2024

Resolving conflict is an act of connection. It's an act of commitment to a relationship and a person.
Did court dismiss student‐athlete's Title IX claim?
Authors: Lyerly Eric
Published: July 2024

A University of Vermont swim team member filed a report with the university claiming she had recently been sexually assaulted multiple times by a member of the men's basketball team, with whom she was previously in a relationship. Two days later, an investigator told her she could (1) file a police report, (2) request a formal investigation, or (3) participate in an informal resolution. She allegedly told the student the informal resolution would “take less time.”
Bioactive Glass for Applications in Implants: A Review
Authors: Chand Preeti , Malik Megha , Prasad Tulika
Published: July 2024

Traditional metallic biomaterials including titanium and its alloys, stainless steel, cobalt‐chromium alloys, magnesium alloys are gold standards for load bearing hard tissue applications, because of adequate mechanical properties such as elastic modulus, ductility and strength for long term support and stability. However, metallic implants suffer from poor osteointegration and early degradation in host body, owing to an array of factors which include stress shieling effect, corrosion, metal toxicity, microbial contamination and low bioactivity. Therefore, to improve integration of implants with host tissue and overall mechanical and biological functions, metallic implants are coated with bioactive glasses (BG). BG are one of the most promising implant coating materials used for bone repair and reconstruction, mainly because of excellent angiogenic, osteoconductive, osteoinductive, corrosion resistance, resorbability, biocompatibility, bioactivity and anti‐microbial properties. Various BG compositions are employed for diverse biomedical applications ranging from wound healing, bone formation, corrosion resistance, drug delivery to scaffolds in tissue engineering and different methods are used for coating BG on implants to enhance stability and bond strength between implant and coating. This narrative review gives a detailed overview on metallic implants, issues of metal alloys when used in implants and how metallic implants are improved by various BG compositions and coating methods. This review provides an updated information on advantages of different BG compositions in implants fabrication in order to address challenges and tailor mechanical and biological properties of implants for future applications.
Photocatalytic Degradation of Toxic Rhodamine B Dye by Green‐Synthesised Activated Carbon‐Supported Cobalt Doped ZnO With Further Assessment of ZnO Nanoparticles in Antimicrobial Applications
Authors: Naveenkumar Ramachandiran , Karthikeyan Balakrishnan , Senthilvelan Sambandam
Published: July 2024

This work investigates the synthesis of ZnO nanoparticles, cobalt (Co)‐doped ZnO, and Activated Carbon (AC) ‐Co doped ZnO via green precipitation technique. AC developed from lotus stems and precipitated by lotus leaf extract. Comprehensive structural, optical, and morphological investigations by FT‐IR, XRD, FE‐SEM, EDX, HR‐TEM, UV‐DRS, PL, and XPS studies are used to characterize the photocatalysts. The ZnO nanoparticles are shown to have a hexagonal phase by XRD examination. The results of the FT‐IR analysis proved that specific chemical bonds exist in the ZnO, Co−ZnO, and AC−Co‐doped ZnO nanocomposites. FE‐SEM images revealed spherical morphology with aggregated, randomly distributed particles with an average size range of ZnO, Co−ZnO and AC−Co−ZnO are 59.55, 42.55, 41.16 nm. The band gap energies of ZnO, Co ‐ZnO, and AC−Co‐ ZnO, are found to be 3.10, 2.57, and 1.94 eV, respectively. Rhodamine B is used as a model contaminant to assess the samples under UV‐light driven photocatalytic effectiveness. The photocatalytic degradation efficiency (%) of the pristine ZnO, Co‐doped ZnO, and AC−Co‐doped ZnO catalysts are increased to 61.76, 74.86, and 91.46 % after 140 minutes of under UV‐light irradiation. Degradation rate constant (k) of the AC−Co−ZnO photocatalyst is found to be greater than that of pristine ZnO and Co−ZnO. Due to the synergistic effect of the AC and Co metal dopants and the spherical morphology of the AC−Co−ZnO sample, which boosted UV‐visible light absorption with reduced charge carrier recombination, resulting in outstanding photocatalytic activity. The study also investigated the bioactive effect of the samples on six bacterial species, revealing that the AC−Co‐doped ZnO nanocomposite has the most enhanced inhibitory effects against gram‐positive and gram‐negative bacteria. Consequently, medical wound dressing materials which helps to promote early healing by preventing microbial contamination.
Inorganic CsPbI2Br as Potential Absorber Layer for Perovskite Solar Cells: Theoretical and Experimental Study
Authors: Ahmad Khursheed , Ahmad Khan Rais , Shakhawat Hossain Mohammad , Sonic Md Muminur Rahman
Published: July 2024

Herein, we reported the numerical simulation studies of the metal halide perovskite solar cells (MHPSCs) using solar cell capacitance one‐dimensional (SCAPS‐1D). CsPbI2Br perovskite has been adopted as the absorber layer and thickness of the absorber layer has been optimized to improve the performance of the simulated MHPSCs. Various electron transport layers (ETLs) and hole transport layers (HTLs) were explored for the optimization of high performance MHPSCs. The simulation studies demonstrated excellent efficiency of 20.22 % for the optimized device structure of FTO/SnO2/CsPbI2Br/PTAA/Au using SCAPS‐1D. The experimental study was also conducted to explore the potential of the simulation investigations. The MHPSCs device (FTO/SnO2/CsPbI2Br/PTAA/Au device) was fabricated under controlled humidity (40 %). The CsPbI2Br layer was grown on FTO substrate and its phase purity, crystallinity, surface morphological, and optical properties were determined by using X‐ray diffraction, and ultraviolet‐visible absorption spectroscopy. The fabricated MHPSCs showed decent efficiency of 14.4 %.
Plasmon‐Enhanced Light Absorption Below the Bandgap of Semiconducting SnS2 Microcubes for Highly Efficient Solar Water Evaporation
Authors: Cheng Pengfei , Wang Hongguang , Wang Honglei , Wang Dong , van Aken Peter A. , Schaaf Peter
Published: July 2024

Semiconducting materials show high potential for solar energy harvesting due to their suitable bandgaps, which allow the efficient utilization of light energy larger than their bandgaps. However, the photon energy smaller than their bandgap is almost unused, which significantly limits their efficient applications. Herein, plasmonic Pd/SnS2 microcubes with abundant Pd nanoparticles attached to the SnS2 nanosheets are fabricated by an in situ photoreduction method. The as‐prepared Pd/SnS2 microcubes extend the light‐harvesting ability of SnS2 beyond its cutoff wavelength, which is attributed to the localized surface plasmon resonance (LSPR) effect of the Pd nanoparticles and the 3D structure of the SnS2 microcubes. Pd nanoparticles can also enhance the light absorption of TiO2 nanoparticles and NiPS3 nanosheets beyond their cutoff wavelengths, revealing the universality for promoting absorption above the cutoff wavelength of the semiconductors. When the plasmonic Pd/SnS2 microcubes are integrated into a hydrophilic sponge acting as the solar evaporator, a solar‐to‐vapor efficiency of up to 89.2% can be achieved under one sun. The high solar‐to‐vapor conversion efficiency and the broad applicability of extending the light absorption far beyond the cutoff wavelength of the semiconductor comprise the potential of innovative plasmonic nanoparticle/semiconductor composites for solar desalination.
Ultra‐Long Carrier Lifetime of Spiral Perovskite Nanowires Realized through Cooperative Strategy of Selective Etching and Passivation
Authors: Zheng Cheng , He Jia , Liu Wei , Liu Zhiwen , Xu Linfeng , Cao Zetan , Jiao Chuangwei , Chen Bin
Published: July 2024

Spiral inorganic perovskite nanowires (NWs) possess unique morphologies and properties that allow them highly attractive for applications in optoelectronic and catalytic fields. In popular solution‐based synthesis methodology, however, challenges persist in simultaneously achieving precise and facile control over morphological twisting and fantastic carrier lifetimes. Here, a cooperative strategy of concurrently employing selective etching and ligand engineering is applied to facilitate the formation of spiral CsPbBr3 perovskite NWs with an ultralong carrier lifetime of ≈2 µs. Specifically, a novel amine of 1‐(p‐tolyl)ethanamine is introduced to functionalize as both a selective etchant and the source of forming an effective ligand to passivate the exposed facets, favoring the structural twisting and the enhancement of carrier lifetimes. The twisting behaviors are dependent on the etch ratios, which are essentially associated with the densities of grain boundaries and dislocations in the NWs. The ultralong carrier lifetime and long‐term stability of the spiral NWs open up new possibilities for all‐inorganic perovskites in optoelectronic and photocatalytic fields, while the cooperative synthesis strategy paves the way for exploring complex spiral structures with tunable morphology and functionality.
Thermodynamic Properties of Sulfur in the CaO–AlO1.5–CeO1.5 Slag System at 1873 K
Authors: Higuchi Masaya , Morita Kazuki
Published: July 2024

Elements with a high affinity for O and S in molten steel are desirable as deoxidizing and desulfurizing agents in the steel refining process, and Ce has attracted attention. In this study, the thermodynamic properties of sulfur in a CaO–AlO1.5–CeO1.5 slag system at 1873 K are investigated. A chemical equilibrium method using Cu is employed for these measurements. Sulfide capacities are determined in the CaO–AlO1.5–CeO1.5 system to show desulfurization ability; the precipitated phases are identified when large amounts of sulfur are added to the CaO–AlO1.5–CeO1.5 system; the solubility of CaS in the CaO–AlO1.5–CeO1.5 system is determined. It is suggested that the slag of this system can improve sulfur distribution while reducing the Al concentration in the steel.
Titanium‐Dependent Kinetics of Ferrite Single‐Phase Recrystallization in Cold‐Rolled Ultra‐High‐Strength Low‐Alloy Steels During Annealing
Authors: Shin Sang Hun , Kim Jong Myeong , Gramlich Alexander , Na Kwang Su
Published: July 2024

The recrystallization behavior of ferrite single phase in ultrahigh‐strength low‐alloy (UHSLA) steels, with different titanium concentrations (1000, 1500, and 2000 ppm) is presented. Utilizing detailed dilatometer tests, we identified disparities between the observed austenite onset temperatures and those predicted using the JMatPro 13 program and ThermoCalc. This study accentuates the combined effects of titanium, niobium, and reduced manganese levels on the initiation of the ferrite‐to‐austenite transformation. The Hall–Petch relationship was used to draw a correlation between titanium concentration, yield strength, and grain size. Moreover, we explored the recrystallization kinetics of these steels using the Johnson–Mehl–Avrami–Kolmogorov (JMAK) model, pinpointing titanium's crucial role in modulating the recrystallization dynamics. These findings have significant implications for advancements in steel manufacturing, enhancing the quality and performance of UHSLA steels in industrial applications.
Mechanisms of Strengthening and Fracture in 17%Cr Martensite/Ferrite Dual‐Phase Stainless Steels
Authors: Wang Ming‐Tao , Liu Yong‐Bo , Zhai Xu , Li Nian‐Wang , Jin Jian‐Feng , Yang Yong‐Chao , Tian Yan‐Zhong
Published: July 2024

To clarify the strengthening mechanisms of medium‐chromium stainless steels (SSs) with carbides, ferrite, and martensite, 17%Cr SSs with varying martensite contents have been prepared, and the influence of martensite on microstructure, mechanical properties, and fracture has been investigated. According to THERMOCALC calculations, 17%Cr SS undergo a reversible phase transition between austenite and ferrite + M23C6 through the diffusion of carbon in austenite and M23C6 in the temperature range of 850–1220 °C. As the martensite content increases, M23C6 decreases, the martensite grain size increases, and the ferrite grain size initially increases and then decreases. Meanwhile, the yield strength and ultimate tensile strength increase, while both the uniform and post‐uniform elongation decrease. It is also found a decrease in work‐hardening index and an increase in work‐hardening rate with increasing martensite content. Under tensile loading, three types of voids are present in 17%Cr SS: type A only in the grain boundary (GB) area with M23C6 in martensite‐free material and type B and C in ferrite grains close to martensite grains and at ferrite/martensite GBs, respectively. An increase in martensite content leads to more voids, indicating a reduction in material plasticity caused by martensite.
Numerical Study on the Effects of Variable Mushy Zone Constants on Fluid Flow and Heat Transfer in Bloom Mold
Authors: Yao Cheng , Wang Min , Cao Li , Xing Lidong , Li Kai , Wang Boteng , Song Jian , Wei Daichun , Bao Yanping
Published: July 2024

In previous studies, the mushy zone constant was assigned a fixed value or a value associated with dendrite characteristics at room temperature. However, elucidating the constitutive behaviors of mushy dendrites at high temperatures using solid dendrite characteristics at room temperature poses challenges. In this study, a numerical model was constructed to investigate the effects of variable mushy zone constants on fluid flow and heat transfer in the mold. The results revealed that “Zone Z‐1/2” exhibited a thinner solidified shell compared with the other zones, indicating a close correlation between heat transfer and thickness differences. Under default simulation conditions, the liquid steel cooled rapidly, leading to the dissipation of superheat. The mushy zone exhibited a wide range, with almost no pure liquid phase present in the mold. In cases 2, 3, and 4 within “Zone Z‐1/2”, the average thickness of the solidified shell gradually increased during solidification, indicating the absence of evident remelting phenomena in the mold. As the variable mushy zone constants increased, the local temperature gradient increased, while the local cooling rate decreased. The accuracy of the numerical model was validated through actual measurements and empirical formulas. The simulation results for case 4 exhibited a high degree of fitting.
Amino‐Functionalized Metal Organic Framework‐Based Dispersive Micro‐Solid‐Phase Extraction Coupled With HPLC for Sensitive Quantification of Bisphenol A and Alkyl Phenols in Aqueous Samples
Authors: Verma Rajpal , Dhingra Gaurav , Singh Gurdeep , Dureja Nidhi , Malik Ashok Kumar
Published: July 2024

A sensitive analytical procedure for simultaneous extraction and determination of bisphenol A and alkyl phenols, namely, 4‐sec‐butylphenol, 4‐tert‐butylphenol, and 4‐tert‐amylphenol from aqueous samples with metal–organic framework (MOF)‐based dispersive micro‐solid‐phase extraction (D‐µSPE) and high‐performance liquid chromatography (HPLC) technique is developed. Sample contaminants were preconcentrated with amino‐functionalized aluminum MOF and later eluted with acetonitrile. The reconstituted sample was subjected to HPLC analysis. Various procedural parameters related to D‐µSPE were optimized. Under optimized preconcentration and chromatographic conditions, calibration curves with excellent linearity (R2 > 0.9986) in the working range of 0.25–100 ng mL−1 were prepared. Limit of detection (S/N = 3) for every analyte within the range of 0.020–0.022 ng mL−1 was obtained. Analyte's recovery 91.16%–97.01% (RSD = 1.02–3.01) for intraday and 89.86%–95.83% (RSD = 1.15–3.13) for inter‐day analysis was obtained from real water samples.
Coherence – The What, the Why, and the How
Authors: Canrinus Esther T.
Published: July 2024

In this chapter, what is understood as coherence and how this construct is conceptualized in this book is discussed. First, different facets of the disco ball called coherence are presented as well as supplemented with new ones. Next, a discussion is offered as to why attention is being paid to perceived coherence in teacher education research. Although many researchers have investigated student teachers’ perceptions, this should not be seen as the final outcome. Investigating the implications of coherent programs is suggested as a further avenue to be pursued in research. Lastly, additional suggestions for future research into coherence in teacher education are presented before providing an overview of the insights gained from this book.
Assessing Student Perceptions of Professionalization Measures and Coherence after the 2011 French Curriculum Reform
Authors: De Smet Cindy , Schmider Christine
Published: July 2024

This chapter examines the 2011 curriculum reform in France, which aimed to professionalize the teacher training system and establish national frameworks for teacher competencies in primary and secondary schools. Inspired by European guidelines for teacher education, this reform represented a paradigm shift in the French system, integrating pedagogical knowledge and pedagogical content knowledge alongside traditional content knowledge. The result was a closing of the professional orientation gap with other European teacher education systems and a greater vocational coherence.
Co-Constructing Multidisciplinary Coherence in Subject Teacher Education: Students’ Reflections in Group Discussions
Authors: Roiha Anssi , Heinonen Pilvi
Published: July 2024

This article examines how disciplinary coherence is (co)constructed at the student-oriented level in pedagogical studies at the University of Turku. Based on group discussion data, we analyze how coherence is (co)constructed in planning a mutual multidisciplinary learning module on the topic of sustainable development. The focus is on how students talk about their own discipline and its specific nature in relation to other disciplines and the multidisciplinary modules. From the perspective of (co)constructing coherence in relation to multidisciplinary modules, three different types of coherence building discourses were identified from the data. It was interesting how, on the one hand, one’s own discipline and subject boundaries seem to be valued, and on the other, how this subject-orientation is questioned and seen as problematic. Based on our findings, we discuss how the participants’ discourses of multidisciplinarity relate to the conceptualization of different dimensions of disciplinary coherence (i.e., inter-, multi- and transdisciplinary) and what this means for the development of teacher education.
Remarks on geometric engineering, symmetry TFTs and anomalies
Authors: Del Zotto Michele , Meynet Shani Nadir , Moscrop Robert
Published: July 2024

Abstract

Geometric engineering is a collection of tools developed to establish dictionaries between local singularities in string theory and (supersymmetric) quantum fields. Extended operators and defects, as well as their higher quantum numbers captured by topological symmetries, can be encoded within geometric engineering dictionaries. In this paper we revisit and clarify aspects of these techniques, with special emphasis on ’t Hooft anomalies, interpreted from the SymTFT perspective as obstructions to the existence of Neumann boundary conditions. These obstructions to gauging higher symmetries are captured via higher link correlators for the SymTFT on spheres. In this work, we give the geometric engineering counterpart of this construction in terms of higher links of topological membranes. We provide a consistency check in the context of 5D SCFTs with anomalous 1-form symmetries, where we give two independent derivations of the anomaly in terms of higher links, one purely field theoretical and the other purely geometrical. Along the way, we also recover the construction of non-invertible duality defects in 4D $$ \mathcal{N} $$
N
= 4 SYM from a geometric engineering perspective.
Developing theory by engaging in collaborative transformations of educational practice
Authors: Gylling-Andersen Thomas
Published: July 2024

This article presents a methodological approach to educational psychology research in which researchers engage in collaborative transformations of educational practice while developing theory concerning the societal and scientific relevance of these transformative processes. The theoretical inspiration for this approach stems from German-Scandinavian Critical Psychology, Transformative Activist Stance, and the Change Laboratory Framework — three research traditions with common roots in cultural-historical psychology and activity theory. Empirically, the article is based on a transformative research collaboration between the author and a 2nd grade teacher at a Danish municipal primary school. The aim was to develop an intervention framework to support the development of cultures of care within communities of children, while simultaneously producing theoretical knowledge about the conditions that enable the development of such cultures within the contradictory and dilemma-filled historical and socio-political context of Danish municipally governed schools. Empirical excerpts show how a novel intervention principle emerged as a synthesis of the researcher and the schoolteacher’s respective, seemingly contradictory knowledge contributions. Against a backdrop of historical-institutional analyses, it is argued that this intervention principle represents a novel scope of possibilities for educational professionals struggling to manoeuvre within the various contradictions and common problems inherent to Danish municipally governed schools. In the discussion, it is argued that the transformative approach presented here seems particularly promising for the democratisation of knowledge production. This assertion is supported by a demonstration of how the approach is particularly flexible to continuously integrate critique, contributions, and contestations from co-researchers within educational practice, adults as well as children.
Verification of correction factors for determining mean annual levels of radon in underground facilities
Authors: Fijałkowska-Lichwa Lidia , Olszewski Jerzy
Published: July 2024

The first verification of a tool developed to improve the work of controlling bodies, managers and employees of underground facilities subject to radiation protection requirements was conducted. The recommended values of correction factors were verified using archival results of measurements conducted for the Institute of Occupational Medicine in Łódź in seven underground workplaces in Poland over exposure periods of a month (10,8678 data) and a quarter of a year (53,688 data). In a cave two groups of monthly factors, produced estimates with almost 70% to 99% consistency with the measured values. Along tourist routes located in mines, a similar fit was obtained using three groups of correction factors for measurement results from March, June and July. In the extraction areas of active underground mines, the best fit was produced by factors calculated as averages for spaces varying in the degree of insulation and ventilation method, while in other departments of mining plants, by correction factors recommended for facilities equipped with mechanical ventilation systems. All the quarterly correction factors produced the best fit between estimated mean annual concentrations and measurement results obtained in the second quarter of the calendar year. A wide variation in result consistency (from 20–30 to 65–80%) obtained for two underground tourist routes in the fourth quarter of the year demonstrates that it is best not to adopt results from this measurement period (October-December) for estimating mean annual radon concentration using the set of quarterly correction factors.
Value-Able Valuers: Anthropogenic Climate Change and Expanding Community to the “Radically Other”
Authors: Gendreau Megs S.
Published: July 2024

Anthropogenic climate change creates unique challenges for policy and ethics, but also new opportunities for conceptualizing moral community. Through the lens of valuing, I develop a framework for approaching climate change through the lens of expanding those whom we consider relevant to our own lives and evaluative processes. Distant humans are an important to this expansion, but the ultimate goal includes non-humans in our moral community. In becoming more receptive to the interests of those very unlike ourselves, we create opportunities for greater resilience, both for ourselves and for other organisms and ecosystems.
Mid-term clinical outcomes of left bundle branch area pacing compared to accurate right ventricular septal pacing
Authors: Okubo Yousaku , Sakai Takumi , Miyamoto Shogo , Uotani Yukimi , Oguri Naoto , Furutani Motoki , Miyauchi Shunsuke , Okamura Sho , Tokuyama Takehito , Nakano Yukiko
Published: July 2024

Background

Although left bundle branch area pacing (LBBAP) reportedly results in fewer adverse outcomes after implantation than conventional stylet-guided right ventricular septal pacing (RVSP), previous studies have not compared LBBAP with accurate RVSP using a delivery catheter. The aim of this study was to compare clinical outcomes between LBBAP and accurate RVSP among patients with atrioventricular block (AVB).

Methods

This single-center observational study enrolled 160 patients requiring RV pacing due to symptomatic AVB between September 2018 and December 2021. Primary composite outcomes included all-cause death, hospitalization due to heart failure (HF), and upgrading to biventricular pacing. Secondary composite outcomes included any procedural and postprocedural complications.

Results

Overall, 160 patients were analyzed (LBBAP, n = 81; RVSP, n = 79). No significant differences in baseline characteristics were observed between the two groups. The RV pacing burden at 1 year after implantation was 90.8% ± 20.4% and 86.2% ± 22.6%, respectively (p = 0.21). During a mean follow-up of 840 ± 369 days, the incidence of the primary outcome was significantly lower with LBBAP (4.9%) compared to RVSP (22.8%) (Log-rank p = 0.02). There was no significant difference in the incidence of the secondary outcome between the two groups (3.7% vs. 5.1%, p = 0.65). In the multivariate analysis, baseline QRS duration, RV pacing burden, and LBBAP were independently associated with the primary outcome (baseline QRS duration: hazard ratio [HR], 1.01; 95% confidence interval [CI], 1.00–1.02; p < 0.001; RV pacing burden: HR, 1.01; 95% CI, 1.00–1.02; p < 0.001; LBBAP: HR, 0.45; 95% CI, 0.31–0.64; p < 0.001).

Conclusion

In patients requiring frequent RV pacing, LBBAP was associated with reduced adverse clinical outcome compared to accurate RVSP using a delivery catheter.

Graphical Abstract
Mxene-bpV plays a neuroprotective role in cerebral ischemia-reperfusion injury by activating the Akt and promoting the M2 microglial polarization signaling pathways
Authors: Cheng Jing , Yu Han , Zhang Zhi-Feng , Jiang Hong-Xiang , Wu Ping , Wang Zhou-Guang , Chen Zhi-Biao , Wu Li-Quan
Published: July 2024

Studies have shown that the inhibition of phosphatase and tensin homolog deleted on chromosome 10 (PTEN)was neuroprotective against ischemia/reperfusion(I/R) injury. Bisperoxovanadium (bpV), a derivative of vanadate, is a well-established inhibitor of PTEN. However, its function islimited due to its general inadequacy in penetrating cell membranes. Mxene(Ti3C2Tx) is a novel two-dimensional lamellar nanomaterial with an excellent ability to penetrate the cell membrane. Yet, the effects of this nanomaterial on nervous system diseases have yet to be scrutinized. Here, Mxene(Ti3C2Tx) was used for the first time to carry bpV(HOpic), creating a new nanocomposite Mxene-bpV that was probed in a cerebral I/R injury model. The findings showed that this synthetic Mxene-bpV was adequately stable and can cross the cell membraneeasily. We observed that Mxene-bpV treatment significantly increased the survival rate of oxygen glucose deprivation/reperfusion(OGD/R)--insulted neurons, reduced infarct sizes and promoted the recovery of brain function after mice cerebral I/R injury. Crucially, Mxene-bpV treatment was more therapeutically efficient than bpV(HOpic) treatment alone over the same period. Mechanistically, Mxene-bpV inhibited the enzyme activity of PTEN in vitro and in vivo. It also promoted the expression of phospho-Akt (Ser473) by repressing PTEN and then activated the Akt pathway to boost cell survival. Additionally, in PTEN transgenic mice, Mxene-bpV suppressed I/R-induced inflammatory response by promoting M2 microglial polarization through PTEN inhibition. Collectively, the nanosynthetic Mxene-bpV inhibited PTEN’ enzymatic activity by activating Akt pathway and promoting M2 microglial polarization, and finally exerted neuroprotection against cerebral I/R injury.

Graphical Abstract
The offer framing effect: a replication and extension
Authors: Pfeifer Louisa M. , Schreiner Thomas F.
Published: July 2024

The article by Mittelman et al. (2014, Journal of Consumer Research, 41(4):953–964) introduced the offer framing effect, suggesting that consumers exhibit greater variety-seeking behavior when selecting products sequentially (single offering) compared to choosing from bundles (bundled offering). The opposite was found by O’Donnell et al. (2023, Journal of Consumer Research, 49(5):861–881), resulting in opposing management implications. To clarify the direction of effect, we conducted four studies in two product categories and found evidence of a stronger preference for variety in bundled offering conditions (compared to single offering conditions), replicating O’Donnell et al.’s (2023) findings. However, utilizing logistic regression analyses, we identify product liking discrepancies as the primary driver of variety seeking. We further reveal that the offer framing effect is more distinctive for choices between products with prosocial attributes compared to hedonic attributes. Our findings provide valuable insights for marketers aiming to optimize product bundling strategies.
Decreased Metal Dusting Resistance of Ni-Cu Alloys by Fe and Mn Additions
Authors: Ulrich Anke S. , Kasatikov Sergey , König Till , Fantin Andrea , Margraf Johannes T. , Galetz Mathias C.
Published: July 2024

Ni-Cu alloys are promising for application at temperatures between 400–900 °C and reducing atmospheres with high C-contents. Typically, under such conditions, metallic materials in contact with the C-rich atmosphere are degraded by a mechanism called metal dusting (MD). Ni-Cu-alloys do not form protective oxide scales, but their resistance is attributed to Cu, which catalytically inhibits the C-deposition on the surface. Adding other alloying elements, such as Mn or Fe, was found to enhance the MD attack of Ni-Cu alloys again. In this study, the effect of the Mn and Fe is divided into two affected areas: the surface and the bulk. The MD attack on binary Ni-Cu alloys, model alloys with Fe and Mn additions, and commercial Monel Alloy 400 is experimentally demonstrated. The surface electronic structure causing the adsorption and dissociation of C-containing molecules is investigated for model alloys. Analytical methods such as scanning electron microscopy combined with energy-dispersive X-ray spectroscopy, electron probe microanalysis combined with wavelength-dispersive X-ray spectroscopy, X-ray diffraction analysis, and near-edge X-ray absorption fine structure measurements were used. The results are correlated to CALPHAD calculations and atomistic simulations combining density functional theory calculations and machine learning. It is found that the Cu content plays a significant role in the surface reaction. The effect of Mn and Fe is mainly attributed to oxide formation. A mechanism explaining the enhanced attack by adding both Fe and Mn is proposed.
3D-Printed Meat Paste Using Minimal Additive: Assessment of Rheological and Printing Behavior with Post-Processing Stability
Authors: Yatmaz Hanife Aydan
Published: July 2024

Printing foods in the desired shape with minimal additives and their stability after printing are the most important points for 3D food technology. In this study, the effects of water (5%, 10%, 15%, and 20%) and salt (0.5%, 1%, 1.5%, and 2%) on the printability of meat paste were evaluated to achieve improved textural and rheological properties. The printing parameters were examined at every stage, starting from the line thickness of the printed product, until the final 3D printed product was obtained. Accordingly, meat printability determined using different ingredient flow speed (3, 3.5, 4, 4.5, and 5), fill factor (1.2%, 1.3%, 1.4%, 1.5%, and 1.6%) and distance between layers (1.2, 1.4, and 1.6 mm). Salt addition increased the firmness and consistency of the samples, while the viscosity, storage modulus, and loss modulus decreased with the addition of water. Considering the line thickness and outer length, the most appropriate shape was obtained with 10% water and 1.5% salt. The optimal ingredient flow speed, fill factor, and distance between layers at a constant printing speed (2500 mm/min) were 3, 1.2%, and 1.4 mm, respectively. Four-layer-infilled 3D-printed samples maintained their initial shape after cooking, regardless of the cooking method. However, only baked products maintained their initial shapes among full-infilled samples. Although water and salt have different functions in meat, the use of the appropriate ratio is necessary for 3D-printed meat-based products to provide printability and post-production stability. To sum up optimum parameters and road map for printing meat and meat products including leftover meats and low-value by-products were revealed.
Negotiable fate-engagement relationship in higher education: The mediation role of hope for success and fear of failure
Authors: Yau Oscar K. T. , Shu Tse-Mei
Published: July 2024

Studies concerning students’ ability to deal with everyday academic challenges (‘academic buoyancy’) and adjust to changes (‘adaptability’) were investigated in educational research over the last two decades (e.g., Martin & Marsh, Journal of School Psychology, 46:53–83, 2008; Martin et al., Journal of Educational Psychology, 105:728–746, 2013). However, how students deal with challenges imposed by fate has not been well-studied. Other than students’ abilities, students’ belief plays an important role in dealing with the academic adversity that fate imposes. The present study harnessed the Hope Theory to examine (1) the relation between negotiable and achievement motivation (hope for success and fear of failure), (2) the relation between achievement motivation and engagement, and (3) the mediation effect of achievement motivation in the relation between negotiable fate and engagement. University students in Hong Kong (n = 339) responded to an online cross-sectional survey. Mediation analyses demonstrated that the relation between negotiable fate and engagement was mediated by hope for success but not by fear of failure. In addition, hope for success only mediated cognitive engagement and affective engagement. The relation between negotiable fate and behavioral engagement was not mediated by hope for success and fear of failure. The findings contribute to the literature on the negotiable fate-engagement theoretical relation in educational research. Also, practical insights were discussed to manage student cognitive and affective engagement with negotiable fate and hope for success under fate constraints.
Technological variability in El Castillo cave during MIS 4
Authors: González-Molina Irene , Maíllo-Fernández José-Manuel , Vaquero Manuel , Neira Ana , Bernaldo de Quirós Federico , Marín Juan
Published: July 2024

The variability in Neanderthal behaviour is one of the key debates in Middle Palaeolithic archaeology. Here we present the analysis of the lithic industry from a unit at one of Europe’s main Palaeolithic sites: El Castillo Cave. Unit XXf1.1, dated to the beginning of MIS 4, is an example of human occupation during a period of population decrease. In this assemblage, the technology is organised with the aim of obtaining the largest possible blanks in an environment in which small-sized raw materials predominate, with the presence of imported tools and clear differences in the management of different raw materials. This assemblage is characterized by the predominance of centripetal exploitation methods, and there is only a small number of blanks with laminar tendency, and cleavers. From all this we can observe how Neanderthals were able to find ways to achieve their specific objectives, planning their behaviour to overcome the limitations imposed by the environment.
A comprehensive health index for India: development, validation, and spatial variation
Authors: Sehgal Meena , Jatrana Santosh , Johnson Louise
Published: July 2024

This paper presents the development, testing, and spatial variation of an innovative India Health Index. Unlike previous approaches that focused on specific health aspects (e.g., health resources, child health, or health coverage), our index takes a comprehensive and multi-dimensional approach. It covers indicators across various life stages: child, adolescent, and adult. It encompasses six domains influencing health: socio-cultural factors, health status, health determinants (both risk and protective factors), household environment, and health system and policy. We used data from the latest round of the National Family Health Survey and employed Principal Component Analysis for constructing the India Health Index. Subsequent statistical tests confirmed its internal reliability and construct validity. External validity was indicated by its association with under-five mortality rates, and the sub-national human development index for India. Spatial analyses revealed significant inter-district and inter-state variation in India Health Index scores. The findings underscore the utility of the India Health Index as a measurement tool and its potential for tracking progress and policy intervention for improving health equity in India.
Rivers as categories of order. A methodical assessment of the position of art geography
Authors: Trinkert Julia
Published: July 2024

In art history, rivers are used to describe relational spatial constellations which enable the spatial distribution of specific styles of artworks in a topographical classification. River courses are used to delimit the distribution areas of buildings or objects of different genres in order to define artistic landscapes. According to this spatial concept, medieval wooden sculptures, for example, can be found between the Eider and Königsau (Danish Kongeå) and Romanesque churches can be found on the Meuse and Rhine, each with artistic characteristics which—as cultural units—can seldom be found beyond their designated natural borders. This article examines the methodological position of art geography, its role today and its potential for art history in general. Accordingly, it will present the broad outlines of the historiographical development of this field, summarise the current focal points and discuss application-oriented perspectives for medieval art history, taking digital humanities, in particular, into account.
The effect of irrigation with magnetized wastewater on soil heavy metals, water productivity and heavy metals in aerial parts and grains of maize
Authors: Khoshravesh Mojtaba , Pourgholam-Amiji Masoud
Published: July 2024

Rising population strains food resources; reusing wastewater increases but brings microbial and heavy metal pollution, impacting nature and human health. Among environmental pollutants, heavy metals in wastewater are a major concern. Using magnetized water is a method to improve water and soil quality. The aim of this research is to investigate the effect of using treated magnetized wastewater on the chemical properties and tracking of heavy metals in the soil, performance and yield components, water efficiency, and absorption of heavy metals by maize plant. Irrigation treatments consisted of various water and wastewater blending ratios under both magnetic and non-magnetic field application conditions. The results showed that the effect of irrigation water and mixing of water and wastewater on electrical conductivity, soil salts and heavy metals in different depths were significant at 1% probability level. On average, irrigation with magnetized wastewater caused a significant increase in grain yield (9.8%) and biological yield of maize (10.63%) compared to non-magnetized wastewater treatment. Irrigation with magnetized wastewater caused a significant increase in biological (10.92%) and physical (10.13%) productivities compared to non-magnetized wastewater treatment. With applying a magnetic field resulted in a reduction of 17.99%, 23.25%, 17.86%, and 17.12% in the concentration of lead, cadmium, zinc, and nickel in the aerial parts of the plant, respectively, compared to the non-magnetized water treatment. Magnetized water increases the water use efficiency of maize and irrigation management with this technology can be useful in more effective and economical use of limited water resources.
Analysis of different objective functions in petroleum field development optimization
Authors: Rostamian Auref , de Sousa Miranda Marx Vladimir , Mirzaei-Paiaman Abouzar , Botechia Vinicius Eduardo , Schiozer Denis José
Published: July 2024

Oilfield development optimization plays a vital role in maximizing the potential of hydrocarbon reservoirs. Decision-making in this complex domain can rely on various objective functions, including net present value (NPV), expected monetary value (EMV), cumulative oil production (COP), cumulative gas production (CGP), cumulative water production (CWP), project costs, and risks. However, EMV is often the main function when optimization is performed under uncertainty. The behavior and performance of different objective functions has been investigated in this paper, when EMV is the primary criterion for optimization under reservoir and economic uncertainty. One of the goals of this study is to provide insights into the advantages and limitations of employing EMV as the sole objective function in oil field development decision-making. The designed optimization problem included sequential optimization of design variables including well positions, well quantity, well type, platform capacity, and internal control valve placements. A comparative analysis is presented, contrasting the outcomes obtained from optimizing the EMV-based objective function against traditional objective functions. The study underscores the importance of incorporating multiple objective functions alongside EMV to guide decision-making in oilfield development. Potential benefits in minimizing CGP and CWP are revealed, aiding in the mitigation of environmental impact and optimization of resource utilization. A strong correlation between EMV and COP is identified, highlighting EMV’s role in improving COP and RF.
Classification of DNA Mixtures by Nanoelectrokinetic Driftless Preconcentration
Authors: Baek Seongho , Park Jihee , Sung Hobin , Lee Jung Ae , Kim Man Jin , Seong Moon-Woo , Kim Sung Jae
Published: July 2024

Nanofluidic phenomena, particularly Ion Concentration Polarization (ICP), have been actively utilized for advancing various research fields, including chemical analysis and biomedical diagnostics, over the past century. While ICP can be used as effective preconcentration techniques in bio-/chemical analysis, there are few studies to investigate the shape of preconcentration plug, especially perpendicular distribution of analyte in the preconcentration plug. Previously we have reported the theoretical analysis of the distribution so that the types of plug were categorized as dumbbell or plug shape. In this study, we further investigated the classification of real DNAs within micro-/nanofluidic devices by examining the preconcentration dynamics of different DNA types under diverse electrical conditions. Our investigation successfully distinguished distinct preconcentration profiles for Short DNA, Multi-short DNAs, and Equitable DNA with introducing the concept of the Radius of Gyration for Fluorescence (RGF). We provided a quantitative framework to analyze and differentiate preconcentration shapes with reasonable precision. These findings not only deepen our understanding of DNA preconcentration dynamics but also provide implications for genetic diagnostics. As a simpler and more accessible pre-test tool, our research could be utilized as the efficient genetic testing, particularly in diagnosing disorders characterized by variations in DNA length.