bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Extend the benchmarking indel set by manual review using the individual cell line sequencing data from the Sequencing Quality Control 2 (SEQC2) project
Authors: Gong Binsheng , Li Dan , Zhang Yifan , Kusko Rebecca , Lababidi Samir , Cao Zehui , Chen Mingyang , Chen Ning , Chen Qiaochu , Chen Qingwang , Dai Jiacheng , Gan Qiang , Gao Yuechen , Guo Mingkun , Hariani Gunjan , He Yujie , Hou Wanwan , Jiang He , Kushwaha Garima , Li Jian-Liang , Li Jianying , Li Yulan , Liu Liang-Chun , Liu Ruimei , Liu Shiming , Meriaux Edwin , Mo Mengqing , Moore Mathew , Moss Tyler J. , Niu Quanne , Patel Ananddeep , Ren Luyao , Saremi Nedda F. , Shang Erfei , Shang Jun , Song Ping , Sun Siqi , Urban Brent J. , Wang Danke , Wang Shangzi , Wen Zhining , Xiong Xiangyi , Yang Jingcheng , Yin Lihui , Zhang Chao , Zhang Ruolan , Bhandari Ambica , Cai Wanshi , Eterovic Agda Karina , Megherbi Dalila B. , Shi Tieliu , Suo Chen , Yu Ying , Zheng Yuanting , Novoradovskaya Natalia , Sears Renee L. , Shi Leming , Jones Wendell , Tong Weida , Xu Joshua
Published: March 2024

Accurate indel calling plays an important role in precision medicine. A benchmarking indel set is essential for thoroughly evaluating the indel calling performance of bioinformatics pipelines. A reference sample with a set of known-positive variants was developed in the FDA-led Sequencing Quality Control Phase 2 (SEQC2) project, but the known indels in the known-positive set were limited. This project sought to provide an enriched set of known indels that would be more translationally relevant by focusing on additional cancer related regions. A thorough manual review process completed by 42 reviewers, two advisors, and a judging panel of three researchers significantly enriched the known indel set by an additional 516 indels. The extended benchmarking indel set has a large range of variant allele frequencies (VAFs), with 87% of them having a VAF below 20% in reference Sample A. The reference Sample A and the indel set can be used for comprehensive benchmarking of indel calling across a wider range of VAF values in the lower range. Indel length was also variable, but the majority were under 10 base pairs (bps). Most of the indels were within coding regions, with the remainder in the gene regulatory regions. Although high confidence can be derived from the robust study design and meticulous human review, this extensive indel set has not undergone orthogonal validation. The extended benchmarking indel set, along with the indels in the previously published known-positive set, was the truth set used to benchmark indel calling pipelines in a community challenge hosted on the precisionFDA platform. This benchmarking indel set and reference samples can be utilized for a comprehensive evaluation of indel calling pipelines. Additionally, the insights and solutions obtained during the manual review process can aid in improving the performance of these pipelines.
Enhanced dye removal using montmorillonite modified with graphene quantum dots in sustainable salep nanocomposite hydrogel
Authors: Mohammad Sharifi Kolsum , Poursattar Marjani Ahmad , Gozali Balkanloo Peyman
Published: March 2024

This research investigated the utilization of graphene quantum dot/montmorillonite (GQD/MMT) as an effective nanofiller in a hydrogel composed of salep biopolymer. The semi-IPN hydrogel was synthesized using salep as the substrate, acrylamide (AAm) as the monomer, ammonium persulfate (APS) as an initiator in free radical polymerization, and N,N'-methylenebisacrylamide (MBA) as a cross-linking agent. The hydrogels were applied to remove safranin (SA), methylene blue (MB), crystal violet (CV), methyl green (MG), congo red (CR), and malachite green (MG) dyes from the water. The diverse properties were analyzed using a scanning electron microscope, fourier infrared spectroscopy, mapping, energy dispersive spectroscopy, weighing analysis, X-ray diffraction, and thermal stability analyses. The optimism of the prepared adsorbent in dye absorption was evaluated by measuring the swelling amount, pH impact, adsorbent dosage, and contact time. The adsorption calculations were described using kinetics and isotherm models. The results indicated that the Langmuir isotherm model (R2 = 99.6) and the pseudo-second-order kinetic model (R2 = 99.9) provided the best fit for the absorption process of MB. The presence of additional amounts of GQD/MMT had a reciprocal effect on the adsorption efficiency due to the accumulation of GQD/MMT in the semi-interpenetrating polymer network (semi-IPN (structure. The findings revealed that the samples exhibited high thermal stability, and the absorption process was primarily chemical. Furthermore, the nanocomposite hydrogels demonstrated distinct mechanisms for absorbing anionic dye (CR) and cationic dye (MB). Under optimal conditions, using 7 wt% GQD/MMT at a concentration of 5 ppm, pH = 7, an adsorbent dosage of 50 mg, at room temperature, and a contact time of 90 min, the maximum removal efficiencies were achieved: MB (96.2%), SA (98.2%), MG (86%), CV (99.8%), MG (95.8%), and CR (63.4%). These results highlight the adsorbent's high absorption capacity, rapid removal rate, and reusability, demonstrating its potential as an eco-friendly and cost-effective solution for removing dyes from water.
Green Nanomaterials Zinc Oxide and Chitosan for Antimicrobial Activity Against Oral Pathogens
Authors: Rajeshkumar A. S. , Pavithra B. D. , Tharani C. M. , Sulochana D. G. , Jayasree E. A.
Published: March 2024

Green nanomaterials that are eco-friendly and biocompatible are ideal for use in the medical field, including dentistry. Nanomaterials have attracted attention in recent years with regard to antimicrobial activity against oral pathogens. Examples are zinc oxide (ZnO) and chitosan, which were found to exhibit antimicrobial activity against oral pathogens and were also useful in the treatment of periodontal diseases. Zinc oxide and chitosan have been shown to be promising alternatives to traditional antimicrobial agents, as they are effective against oral pathogens and were found to have a low toxicity profile. Many nanomaterials and nanocomposites are used in the field of dentistry. In dentistry, nanoparticles are utilized to develop regenerative therapies for oral and dental tissue. For instance, calcium phosphate nanoparticles have been utilized to develop dental implant materials that can promote the growth of new bone tissue. This helps to improve the success rate of dental implants and reduce the risk of implant failure. This chapter gives an insight into the knowledge of oral pathogens, general nanomaterials, nanoparticles, and nanocomposites and their applications in dentistry, especially in endodontics, orthodontics, and periodontics, green synthesis of zinc oxide nanoparticles, antimicrobial activity of zinc oxide and its application in dentistry, and preparation and characterization of chitosan and its antimicrobial activity against oral pathogens.
A3Ti5NbO14 (A = H, Li and K) family: ionic exchange, physical and electrochemical properties
Authors: Neveu Audric , Jean Justine , Boullay Philippe , Kovrugin Vadim M. , Sagot Armance , Raj Hari , Pralong Valerie
Published: March 2024

A new layered titanoniobate, Li3Ti5NbO14, a member of the AxM2nO4n+2 family, has been synthesized using a molten salt reaction between H3Ti5NbO14 and an eutectic mixture of LiOH and LiNO3.
Room temperature spin crossover properties in a series of mixed-anion Fe(NH2trz)3(BF4)2−x(SiF6)x/2 complexes
Authors: Yang Xinyu , Enriquez-Cabrera Alejandro , Jacob Kane , Coppel Yannick , Salmon Lionel , Bousseksou Azzedine
Published: March 2024

A series of mixed-anion Fe(NH2trz)3(BF4)2−x(SiF6)x/2 complexes presenting abrupt spin crossover behaviour with a narrow hysteresis loop just above room temperature is obtained by coordination reaction or solid–liquid post synthetic modification.
Binding of the plant-derived toxin simplexin to bovine protein kinase C: insights from molecular dynamics
Authors: Zhou Yuchen , Roseli Ras Baizureen , Hungerford Natasha L. , Fletcher Mary T. , Ouwerkerk Diane , Gilbert Rosalind A. , Krenske Elizabeth H.
Published: March 2024

Pimelea poisoning of Australian cattle is attributed to the natural toxin simplexin binding to bovine PKC. Molecular dynamics simulations reveal simplexin's high affinity for PKC, and identify SAR for future molecular interventions against poisoning.
Stereoselective synthesis of (R)- and (S)-1,2-diazetidine-3-carboxylic acid derivatives for peptidomimetics
Authors: Nutter Matthew , Stone Henry , Shipman Michael , Roesner Stefan
Published: March 2024

Stereoselective synthesis of both enantiomers of orthogonally protected 1,2-diazetidine-3-carboxylic acid (aAze) from homochiral glycidol and its application in peptidomimetics.
Coumarin–azasugar–benzyl conjugates as non-neurotoxic dual inhibitors of butyrylcholinesterase and cancer cell growth
Authors: Vaaland Holmgard I. Caroline , González-Bakker Aday , Poeta Eleonora , Puerta Adrián , Fernandes Miguel X. , Monti Barbara , Fernández-Bolaños José G. , Padrón José M. , López Óscar , Lindbäck Emil
Published: March 2024

Coumarin–azasugar–benzyl conjugates were obtained through the CuAAC reaction, displaying dual anti-Alzheimer and anti-cancer activity in vitro and no neurotoxicity.
Divergent self-assembly propensity of enantiomeric phenylalanine amphiphiles that undergo pH-induced nanofiber-to-nanoglobule conversion
Authors: Pradhan Manas Kumar , Misra Nayanika , Sahala Fathima , Pradhan Nyaya Prakash , Srivastava Aasheesh
Published: March 2024

Enantiomeric single phenylalanine derivatives demonstrate very different self-assembling propensity and thermodynamic parameters associated with self-assembly.
Biochemical Society support in action: experiences from our community
Authors: Ollett Lucy
Published: March 2024

Throughout the year, the Biochemical Society offers a programme of grants for all career stages supporting research, attendance at scientific conferences and sponsorship of events. In 2023, we awarded over £320,000 towards international collaboration and the training of essential biochemistry techniques through workshops as well as the organization of independent lectures and seminar series. In this article, we are delighted to share a few insights from our community that highlight the variety of projects and opportunities made possible by our funding.

For more information about our funding opportunities and the application process, please visit our website.
A novel approach towards parametric assessment of reliability and resilience of high voltage mica‐based insulation systems by statistical analysis of experimental failure data
Authors: Negari Shahram , Esmaeil Moghadam Davoud
Published: March 2024

Insulation systems in high‐voltage electric machines play a pivotal role in the reliable operation and longevity of the equipment. Mica‐based insulation materials have proven to possess and maintain excellent dielectric properties in the long run and prevent premature insulation degradation. Numerous qualifications tests, such as voltage endurance, are outlined in IEC and IEEE standards. The authors, however, take a different parametric approach, opting for reliability assessment of insulation systems using derived three‐parameter Weibull models. Therefore, instead of simple pass–fail criteria, empirical data is employed to determine failure rate probabilities quantitatively and objectively. Experimental data, including breakdown, dissipation factor, and partial discharge measurements, are used to construct the Weibull distribution model to predict fault and failure rates and calculate hazard functions. The rigorous examinations interpreted through the analytical model help assess insulation system resilience and particularly the impact of electrical field stress and mica content. Variation of electrical stress from 66.75 to 71.20 V/mil demonstrated how the mean time to failure of the system changed from 146.4 to 85.1 at 3 Un, hence identifying opportunities for design improvement and uncovering performance boundaries. Ultimately, the developed framework enhances comprehension of insulation system failure probabilities, guiding design decisions and ensuring a secure and reliable operation of electrical machines across applications.
Detection of Toxoplasma gondii Parasite on Blood Donor at PMI Kabupaten Magelang by Rapid Diagnostic Methods in 2022
Authors: Widyaswara Gravinda , Rahman Aulia , Zain Kumara Rahmawati , Rahayu Tanti , Andriyani K Nursita
Published: March 2024

Toxoplasma gondii is a parasite that can infect most warm-blooded animals, including humans. The infection is caused by Toxoplasma gondii called Toxoplasmosis. Toxoplasmosis transmission can occur because of human behaviour’s such as keeping cats, eating raw vegetables and fruit with a less clean, not washing hands properly, and consuming food and drinks served without lids that could potentially be contaminated with oocysts, as well as soil-related work such as gardening and farming. Toxoplasma gondii is an infectious parasite that could be transmitted through blood transfusions. The aim of this research was to detect IgM and IgG antibodies of Toxoplasma gondii in blood donors by Rapid Diagnostic method at PMI Kabupaten Magelang. This research is a descriptive observational with a cross sectional design and used 25 respondents with blood categories A, B, O, and AB at PMI Kabupaten Magelang in 2022. According to the results of the Toxoplasmosis examination utilizing the Rapid Diagnostic Test technique on blood donors at PMI Kabupaten Magelang, as many as 25 respondents obtained non-reactive IgM and IgG antibodies against Toxoplasma gondii. It could be concluded that no respondents were found to have reactive IgM and IgG antibodies against Toxoplasma gondii.
Microwave-assisted synthesis of triazine covalent organic frameworks via friedel-crafts reaction for use in treating brackish Water
Authors: Mthembu Sabelo Bright , Maddila Suresh , Jonnalagadda Sreekantha Babu , Malevu Thembinkosi Donald , Cele Zamani , Gumbi Bhekumuzi Prince
Published: March 2024

Water scarcity is becoming an ever-growing problem in society. This is all due to the rapid increase in human population, harsh changes in the weather climate. New approaches for treating and recycling brine water into freshwater instead of discharging are needed, significantly large reduction in energy usage and decreasing harmful impact to the environment must be achieved in brine recovery. This study aims to introduced green technology into the reclamation of brine water by use of covalent organic frameworks (COFs) materials which will be used as part of a novel triazine-based COFs material which can be used as a nanomembrane for desalination of brine water from water treatment plants at Umgeni Water. Current technological approaches used are inefficient and unsuitable in 3rd world, developing countries including the republic of South Africa. This work focuses on a microwave-assisted synthesis involving Friedel Crafts reaction between monomers to yield a product of a triazine-based covalent organic frameworks (COFs) membranes. To confirm the products high resolution transmission electron microscopy (HRTEM), carbon NMR (13C NMR) with peaks at chemical shifts of 131, 143 and 172 ppm respectively. Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR) was employed and showed N-H stretches at a region of 3396 to 3050 cm-1. The COFs that were successfully synthesised are going to be incorporated on a polymeric substrate to fabricate a nanofiltration membrane and applied for nanofiltration or ultrafiltration purposes.
Rapid Solidification Techniques for Metal Processing: Microstructure and Properties
Authors: Srivastava Ashish , Navaneetha C , Abed Noor kadhim , Singh Navdeep , Chandrashekar Rakesh , Singh Harjeet
Published: March 2024

In recent years, rapid solidification techniques have garnered considerable attention due to their capacity to yield metals with unique microstructures and properties unattainable through conventional processing methods. These techniques involve swiftly cooling the metal, resulting in a fine-grained microstructure, unlike the coarse-grained microstructures typically obtained through traditional methods. This paper offers an overview of several rapid solidification techniques, such as melt spinning, spray forming, and gas atomization. These methods entail rapidly cooling molten metal by either quenching it onto a swiftly rotating wheel or spraying it onto a substrate. The cooling rates achieved, typically ranging from 104 to 107 K/s, far exceed those of conventional casting methods. The distinctive microstructure resulting from rapid solidification techniques presents numerous advantages over conventional methods. These include enhanced homogeneity, increased strength, improved ductility, heightened thermal stability, and augmented corrosion resistance. Consequently, rapid solidification techniques hold significant promise for applications across aerospace, automotive, and medical industries. This review also underscores recent advancements in rapid solidification techniques and their potential applications. These encompass the production of high-strength, wear-resistant materials for cutting tools, the development of lightweight alloys for aerospace applications, and the manufacture of biocompatible alloys for medical implants. In summation, this review offers a comprehensive examination of the latest progress in rapid solidification techniques for metal processing and their diverse applications across various industries.
Advances in Dental Materials: Bioactive Glass and Ceramic Composites: A Review
Authors: Pant Gaurav , Krishna B Vijay , Abed Noor kadhim , Nagpal Amandeep , V Asha , Meheta Ankit
Published: March 2024

In recent times, there have been notable advancements in dental materials, with particular emphasis on the progress made in the development of bioactive glass and ceramic composites. The unique capacity of bioactive glass to promote bone regeneration and repair has garnered significant attention. This has led to its widespread use in the field. The utilisation of ceramic composites as dental materials has exhibited favourable outcomes owing to their superior strength, biocompatibility, and aesthetic. The present review article provides an overview of the latest developments in bioactive glass and ceramic composites, encompassing their characteristics, manufacturing techniques, and employment in the field of dentistry. The present study will concentrate on the application of bioactive glass in the fields of restorative dentistry, bone augmentation interventions, and endodontic treatment. The utilisation of ceramic composites in implant dentistry will be examined, along with their prospective implementation in other dental contexts. This review aims to elucidate the difficulties that are linked with the utilisation of said materials, including their fragility and the requirement for meticulous handling, in addition to plausible remedies for mitigating these difficulties. The current review article illustrates the advancements in bioactive glass and ceramic composites possess the capacity to considerably enhance the results of diverse dental procedures, thereby furnishing patients with restorations that are more enduring, visually appealing, and biocompatible.
A Review on Next-Generation Solar Solutions: Pioneering Materials and Designs for Sustainable Energy Harvesting
Authors: Praveena K , Jain Alok , Arun Vanya , Kaliyaperumal Gopal , Khan Irfan , Pahwa Shilpa , Alkhafaji Mohammed Ayad
Published: March 2024

As an essential initial step towards clean and sustainable energy, this research focuses on innovative materials and structural designs for maximizing solar energy conversion and harvesting. Modern solar thermal and photovoltaic system technologies and supplies are examined to show how alternative electricity has become less expensive and more sustainable. The primary focus is on complex ideas like multiple junctions and tandem solar cells, which increase the efficiency of single-junction systems. The review paper investigates innovative solar power storage solutions, involving battery technology and energy storage materials, to meet the increasing need for secure and easily available sources of clean energy. The research paper explores the technology and uses of flat plate collectors, tube collectors, and solar power plants and how those are used in residential and commercial solar thermal systems. Solar energy conversion efficiency and sustainability will improve with innovations in materials and architecture. Building-integrated photovoltaics (BIPV) is one of the easiest solar system architectures that can be integrated into any residential or commercial building. Quantum dot solar cells, photovoltaic (PV) solar energy frameworks, such as CIGS thin-film solar cells, and organic photovoltaics (OPVs). Organic photovoltaics are portable and lightweight but have a low energy conversion rate, whereas quantum dot solar cells have a high energy conversion rate but face fabrication challenges.
Comprehensive Review on Low-Cost, Solar-Powered Water Purification Technologies for Remote Areas
Authors: Anjimoon Shaik , R J Anandhi , Singh Navdeep , Parmar Ashish , Sharma Niti , Mohammad Q.
Published: March 2024

The research article explores the increasing need for readily available potable water in geographically remote and deprived areas. The main objective of this research is to design and perform a cost-efficient water purification system which utilizes solar power. This system is specially designed to function in locations where electricity and standard water treatment infrastructures are rare. It focuses on the research, development, and execution of cuttingedge technologies that employ solar energy for powering filtration and purification systems, which improves the accessibility of clean water in remote and under-served areas. The study involves a choice of materials based on their value for money and long-lasting properties, the addition of solar panels together with filtering systems, and assessing the capacity of the system to function well in different environmental situations. The system design is improved through the application of field tests and the integration of community feedback. The main purpose of this study is to propose a sustainable solution to the issue of water shortage in remote regions. While doing so, it will contribute to worldwide initiatives dedicated to enhancing the availability of water and advancing the health of the public.
Machine Learning and AI-Driven Water Quality Monitoring and Treatment
Authors: Rajitha Akula , K Aravinda , Nagpal Amandeep , Kalra Ravi , Maan Preeti , Kumar Ashish , Abdul-Zahra Dalael Saad
Published: March 2024

This study examines the latest utilization of the combination of machine learning (ML) and artificial intelligence (AI) in the monitoring and upgrading of water quality, which has become a crucial component of environmental management. In this paper, a thorough examination of modern methods and recent advancements in the fields of artificial intelligence (AI) and machine learning (ML) algorithms, which have considerably enhanced the precision and effectiveness of water quality tracking systems. The study analyzes the integration of these innovations into water treatment methods, focusing their ability to more efficiently identify and reduce contaminants compared to traditional techniques. This paper examines a collection of case studies in which artificial intelligence (AI)-powered devices have been used, showcasing significant developments in the evaluation of water quality and improved levels of treatment efficiency. The present study additionally analyzes the various problems and potential future developments of Artificial Intelligence (AI) and Machine Learning (ML) within this particular domain. These challenges cover issues of scalability, data security, as well as the importance for interdisciplinary collaboration. This paper gives a comprehensive analysis of the impact of AI and ML technologies on water quality management, demonstrating their potential to transform current practices towards greater sustainability and efficiency.
Recycling Waste into Building Materials: Innovations and Prospects in Brick Production for Sustainable Construction
Authors: Himabindu Modi , Raj Vijilius Helena , Dutt Amit , Chandra Pradeep Kumar , Sethi Vandana Arora , Mohammad Q.
Published: March 2024

The expanding population in the past decade has put an enormous strain on building materials sector, prompting civil engineers to find creative strategies for turning waste into viable assets. Employing such waste as an invaluable asset may contribute to financial savings on the disposal of waste, enhance safety and security for the public, encourage environmental awareness, and save restricted natural resources. The present paper is part of a larger analysis on the applications of bricks. The particular focus is on the use of different waste materials in the process of producing them. The mechanical and physical attributes of bricks provide recommendations for further study in this field. Further research is required for finding a cost-effective brick production method that utilizes less energy and generates a lesser number environmental pollutants. Brick kilns are asked to shift towards utilizing alternate fuels like methane gas or petroleum oil. Furthermore, research is required to determine how to fulfill the material criteria of the standard while safeguarding the environment, in particular view of a growing movement in the construction sector toward the use of low-cost, lightweight, and green construction supplies. Recycled waste materials from farms and factories can reduce environmental harm and fulfill the need for more economically efficient ways of building.
Comprehensive mapping of food loss and food waste: Insights from a systematic literature review
Authors: Purwanto Edi , Biasini Naurissa , Yulianto Aries
Published: March 2024

This research aims to comprehensively map the stages at which food materials are discarded as food loss and food waste, drawing insights from existing literature. This study employs a systematic literature review methodology-the works of literature collected from reputable international journal databases. The findings of this investigation reveal a diverse array of research endeavors within the realm of food waste management. Researchers have undertaken endeavors to categorize different types of food waste, while others have delved into examining food resilience and waste generation in agricultural phases or amongst farmers. Distinct studies have concentrated on food resilience and waste issues encompassing traditional market traders. The academic community has also directed attention towards food waste in harvest, retail sales, followed by the hospitality industry, restaurant management, and household settings. The outcomes of this systematic literature review offer a foundational framework for delineating food waste patterns across agricultural, traditional market, retail, restaurant, hotel, and household contexts. Subsequent empirical research is poised to focus on categorizing food waste by type, identifying root causes, exploring mitigation efforts, and elucidating waste management strategies enacted by farmers, traditional market traders, retail stores, restaurants, hotels, and households.
Direct public engagement of the disaster management agency in Meranti Islands Regency in responding to peatland disasters
Authors: Meiwanda Geovani , Syahza Almasdi , Ikhsan A. Masrul
Published: March 2024

Disaster studies are interesting studies that will always require dynamic changes, but local governments must be able to provide good policies. With system replication, disasters are downstream but must be accompanied by upstream problems which become the basis for being resolved early. With the policy of separating government affairs in responding to public problems, between the central government and regional governments, the public administration system will be better. The locus of analysis in this article is the Meranti Islands Regency in Riau Province, where almost more than 70% of its territory is peat area. From 1998 until its peak in 2015, the supporting factors were the climate which caused long droughts, and also the habitual pattern of burning land which caused forest and land fires in peat areas that were difficult to extinguish, resulting in a haze disaster that spread to neighboring countries, namely Malaysia and Singapore. Based on this experience, the regional government replicated the application-based satellite system public service innovation to detect disaster points, with the hope of being more responsive so that it can respond earlier to disasters in Meranti Islands Regency. The Regional Disaster Management Agency (BPBD) of Meranti Islands Regency realizes that geographically it is difficult to reach disaster points in this region because this district consists of several islands and access to reach these areas takes quite a long time.
Bubble formation dynamics in aerospace applications
Authors: Lange Katherine De
Published: March 2024

Under microgravity conditions, simulations of bubble formation in a T-junction microchannel with hybrid wettability surfaces allows for more precise control of multiphase flow in space exploration technologies
Could late-latent syphilis be treated with a single subcutaneous infusion of long-acting penicillin?
Authors: Hla Thel K. , Salman Sam , Kado Joseph , Moore Brioni R. , Manning Laurens
Published: March 2024

Syphilis is an important global health threat and little has changed in its treatment since the mid-20th century. For late-latent or syphilis infection of unknown duration, the standard treatment of multiple intramuscular injections of benzathine penicillin G (BPG) are associated with significant pain and distress to clients and caregivers, negatively impacting on treatment completion. Based on pharmacokinetic modelling from a Phase I study of subcutaneous infusion of high dose BPG (SCIP), we present its feasibility, safety and tolerability for treatment of syphilis in a single infusion. SCIP leads to more sustained penicillin concentrations above the desired target with less reported pain and reduced clinic visits.
Capacity of the U.S. federal system for cultural heritage to meet challenges of climate change
Authors: Rockman Marcy
Published: March 2024

The U.S. federal government is unbalanced in its capacity to recognize, manage, and engage cultural heritage as part of its response to climate change. Legislation from the 1906 Antiquities Act to Executive Order (EO) 13990 signed in 2021 has set an overarching approach in which heritage is understood to be primarily tangible places and things that should be conserved, foremost through monument and park boundaries and significance designations. Such conservation, however, does not protect heritage from impacts of climate change and how to manage these components of heritage is nearly invisible in recent climate-focused publications of the two agencies assigned by legislation to serve as leads for cultural heritage in the U.S. government. Yet further, the long-standing tangible approach to heritage does not incorporate emerging understandings of its intangible components and the diverse connections of all forms of heritage to place, meaning, identity, and global change goals of sustainability and equity. In contrast, analysis of 27 federal agency climate adaptation plans prepared in response to 2021 EO 14008 shows that multiple agencies not assigned lead roles for heritage recognize a range of responsibilities that include heritage as part of climate adaptation, mitigation, equity, and coordination with Indigenous communities. This paper explores U.S. heritage legislative history, the definition it helped create for heritage, more recent understandings of heritage, and relationships of these to climate change and how these are represented in climate work and plans across U.S. federal agencies. On these bases, recommendations are provided for research and policy steps.
Intelligent electroactive material systems with self-adaptive mechanical memory and sequential logic
Authors: El Helou Charles , Hyatt Lance P. , Buskohl Philip R. , Harne Ryan L.
Published: March 2024

By synthesizing the requisite functionalities of intelligence in an integrated material system, it may become possible to animate otherwise inanimate matter. A significant challenge in this vision is to continually sense, process, and memorize information in a decentralized way. Here, we introduce an approach that enables all such functionalities in a soft mechanical material system. By integrating nonvolatile memory with continuous processing, we develop a sequential logic-based material design framework. Soft, conductive networks interconnect with embedded electroactive actuators to enable self-adaptive behavior that facilitates autonomous toggling and counting. The design principles are scaled in processing complexity and memory capacity to develop a model 8-bit mechanical material that can solve linear algebraic equations based on analog mechanical inputs. The resulting material system operates continually to monitor the current mechanical configuration and to autonomously search for solutions within a desired error. The methods created in this work are a foundation for future synthetic general intelligence that can empower materials to autonomously react to diverse stimuli in their environment.
Final report, On-going Key Comparison BIPM.QM-K1, Ozone at ambient level, comparison with NIM Oct.2023
Authors: Viallon Joële , Idrees Faraz , Moussay Philippe , Wielgosz Robert , Jingkun Hao , Yiling Liu , Norris James E , Trask Peter
Published: March 2024

Main text

As part of the ongoing key comparison BIPM.QM-K1, a comparison has been performed between the ozone national standard of China maintained by the National Institute of Metrology (NIM) and the common reference standard of the key comparison, maintained by the Bureau International des Poids et Mesures (BIPM). The instruments have been compared over a nominal ozone amount fraction range of 0 nmol mol−1 to 500 nmol mol−1.

To reach the main text of this paper, click on Final Report. Note that this text is that which appears in Appendix B of the BIPM key comparison database https://www.bipm.org/kcdb/.

The final report has been peer-reviewed and approved for publication by the CCQM, according to the provisions of the CIPM Mutual Recognition Arrangement (CIPM MRA).
Simulation and analysis of enhancement-mode AlGaN/GaN HEMT with P-I-N junction gate
Authors: Jia Mao , Hou Bin , Yang Ling , Zhang Meng , Chang Qingyuan , Niu Xuerui , Shi Chunzhou , Du Jiale , Wu Mei , Lu Hao , Ma Xiaohua , Hao Yue
Published: March 2024

To improve the threshold voltage and gate reliability of conventional enhancement-mode p-GaN-gated AlGaN/GaN high electron mobility transistors while maintaining a low on-resistance, an improved design solution for p-GaN HEMTs with P-I-N junction gate (PIN-HEMTs) has been proposed. Simulation results show that energy band modulation is achieved by adjusting the doping concentration and thickness of each layer of the PIN junction, and high-performance p-GaN gate HEMTs with adjustable threshold voltages ranging from 0.56 V to 4.75 V and gate breakdown voltages ranging from 19.8 V to 30.3 V would be prepared. The PIN-HEMT has a quasi-self-alignment property, which means that good gate control is independent of gate metal alignment. This not only improves the production efficiency but also solves the problems of weak gate control and electric field aggregation at the gate edge caused by the gate misalignment in conventional p-GaN gate HEMTs, thus realizing lower on-resistance and higher gate breakdown voltage, which demonstrates this proposed structure has excellent potentials for realizing effective and reliable high-power transistors.
Ni/Zn ratio and La substitution effect on selected structural and magnetic properties of NiZn ferrites
Authors: Šoka Martin , Ušáková Mariana , Dosoudil Rastislav , Jančárik Vladimír , Ušák Elemír , Dobročka Edmund
Published: March 2024

Auto-combustion process was used for synthetization of Ni1−x
Zn
x
Fe2O4 and Ni1−x
Zn
x
La0.02Fe1.98O4 (x = 0, 0.3, 0.5, 0.64 and 0.7) ferrite samples to investigate their structural and selected magnetic properties. Standard characterization method such as x-ray diffraction, magnetic susceptibility temperature dependencies measurement, low-frequency hysteresis loops recording and complex permeability spectra were used on the research samples. The monophasic ferrite compounds have been prepared. For all samples, with an increase of zinc ions in the content, a decrease of the Curie temperature and coercive field value and an increase of the complex permeability real part value were observed, together with a shift of the ferrimagnetic resonance frequency value to lower ones. Substituted samples showed some differences, such as slightly higher values of the Curie temperature and coercive field, and at the same time slightly lower values of the complex permeability real part and higher values of the ferrimagnetic resonance frequency.
Efficiently tuning the electrical performance of PBTTT-C14 thin film via in
situ controllable multiple precursors (Al2O3:ZnO) vapor phase infiltration
Authors: Jia Zhen , Wang Weike , Ma Chuang , Zhang Xuelian , Yan Ruihang , Zhu Jiankang
Published: March 2024

Conjugated polymer-based organic/inorganic hybrid materials become the current research frontier and show great potential to integrate flexible polymers and rigid solid materials, which have been widely used in the field of various flexible electronics and optical devices. In this study, based on the multiple vapor phase infiltration (VPI) process, various precursor molecules (diethylzinc DEZ, trimethylaluminum TMA, H2O) are applied for the in situ modification of PBTTT-C14 films. The conductivity of the PBTTT-C14/Al2O3:ZnO (AZO) film is significantly enhanced, and the maximum value of conductivity is 1.16 S cm−1, which is eight orders of magnitude higher than the undoped PBTTT-C14 thin film. Here, the change of morphologies and crystalline states are analyzed via SEM, AFM, and XRD. And the chemical changes during the VPI process of PBTTT-C14 are characterized through Raman, XPS, and UV–vis. During the AZO VPI process, the formation of new ZnS matrix in the polymer subsurface can generate new additional electron conduction pathways through the crosslinking of polymer chains with inorganic materials, and the addition of Al2O3 can bring about the increase of average grain size of ZnO crystals, which is also benefit to the conductivity increase of PBTTT-C14 thin film. Generally, the synergistic effect between the inorganic and polymer constituents results in the significantly enhancement of the conductivity of PBTTT-C14/AZO thin films.
An updated variable RBE model for proton therapy
Authors: Lyngholm Erlend , Stokkevåg Camilla Hanquist , Lühr Armin , Tian Liheng , Meric Ilker , Tjelta Johannes , Henjum Helge , Handeland Andreas Havsgård , Ytre-Hauge Kristian Smeland
Published: March 2024

Objective. While a constant relative biological effectiveness (RBE) of 1.1 forms the basis for clinical proton therapy, variable RBE models are increasingly being used in plan evaluation. However, there is substantial variation across RBE models, and several new in vitro datasets have not yet been included in the existing models. In this study, an updated in vitro proton RBE database was collected and used to examine current RBE model assumptions, and to propose an up-to-date RBE model as a tool for evaluating RBE effects in clinical settings. Approach. A proton database (471 data points) was collected from the literature, almost twice the size of the previously largest model database. Each data point included linear-quadratic model parameters and linear energy transfer (LET). Statistical analyses were performed to test the validity of commonly applied assumptions of phenomenological RBE models, and new model functions were proposed for

RB

E

max

and

RB

E

min

(RBE at the lower and upper dose limits). Previously published models were refitted to the database and compared to the new model in terms of model performance and RBE estimates. Main results. The statistical analysis indicated that the intercept of the

RB

E

max

function should be a free fitting parameter and RBE estimates were clearly higher for models with free intercept.

RB

E

min

increased with increasing LET, while a dependency of

RB

E

min

on the reference radiation fractionation sensitivity (

α
/
β

x

) did not significantly improve model performance. Evaluating the models, the new model gave overall lowest RMSE and highest R2 score. RBE estimates in the distal part of a spread-out-Bragg-peak in water (

α
/
β

x

= 2.1 Gy) were 1.24–1.51 for original models, 1.25–1.49 for refits and 1.42 for the new model. Significance. An updated RBE model based on the currently largest database among published phenomenological models was proposed. Overall, the new model showed better performance compared to refitted published RBE models.
Joint reconstruction and segmentation in undersampled 3D knee MRI combining shape knowledge and deep learning
Authors: Kofler A , Wald C , Kolbitsch C , V Tycowicz C , Ambellan F
Published: March 2024

Objective. Task-adapted image reconstruction methods using end-to-end trainable neural networks (NNs) have been proposed to optimize reconstruction for subsequent processing tasks, such as segmentation. However, their training typically requires considerable hardware resources and thus, only relatively simple building blocks, e.g. U-Nets, are typically used, which, albeit powerful, do not integrate model-specific knowledge. Approach. In this work, we extend an end-to-end trainable task-adapted image reconstruction method for a clinically realistic reconstruction and segmentation problem of bone and cartilage in 3D knee MRI by incorporating statistical shape models (SSMs). The SSMs model the prior information and help to regularize the segmentation maps as a final post-processing step. We compare the proposed method to a simultaneous multitask learning approach for image reconstruction and segmentation (MTL) and to a complex SSMs-informed segmentation pipeline (SIS). Main results. Our experiments show that the combination of joint end-to-end training and SSMs to further regularize the segmentation maps obtained by MTL highly improves the results, especially in terms of mean and maximal surface errors. In particular, we achieve the segmentation quality of SIS and, at the same time, a substantial model reduction that yields a five-fold decimation in model parameters and a computational speedup of an order of magnitude. Significance. Remarkably, even for undersampling factors of up to R = 8, the obtained segmentation maps are of comparable quality to those obtained by SIS from ground-truth images.
Multiphysics coupled sensing mechanism of Pd/Ni alloy thin-film coated SAW hydrogen sensor
Authors: Cui Baile , Jin Jing , Hu Anyu , Ren Zixuan , Liang Yong , Wang Wen , Cheng Lina
Published: March 2024

Multiphysics coupled sensing mechanism of palladium/nickel (Pd/Ni) alloy thin-film coated surface acoustic wave (SAW) hydrogen (H2) sensor is demonstrated theoretically and experimentally to allow the optimization of the sensing device in this work. The resistor-capacitance circuit model is used to describe the interaction between Pd/Ni film and H2. Referring to the perturbation theory, the relationship between the changes in SAW velocity/phase and the multi-physical field quantities of the Pd/Ni film are analyzed. To verify the theoretical model, the Pd/Ni film is sputtered on the Y35°X quartz substrate to build the delay-line patterned SAW H2 sensor. Experimental results have well verified the theoretical predictions. That is, the main response mechanism is the mass loading effect, and the contribution of the acoustoelectric effect can be neglected. The expansion effect induced by hydrogen adsorption is completely different from the mass loading effect, which causes the sensing response failure, but it can be effectively improved by increasing the working temperature or decreasing the thickness of the Pd/Ni thin-film. Wide detection range (100 ppm ∼ 38 v/v %), rapid response (t
90 ∼ 7 s), and good humidity stability are achieved from the optimized SAW H2 sensor.
Functionally varied negative-stiffness metamaterial core sandwich structures with three-phase bending deformation
Authors: Aewzipo Nathakorn , Olarnrithinun Sutee , Aimmanee Sontipee
Published: March 2024

This paper introduces a novel class of negative-stiffness (NS) core sandwich composite structures that exhibit unique mechanical performance, including shape recovery, superelasticity, and energy absorption (EA) in bending and shear mode. The core of these structures consists of a periodic cellular arrangement of double-curved beams that undergo consecutive local snap-buckling transitions between multiple equilibrium states, enabling the structures to change shape reversibly between their initial and deformed configurations. To characterize the force-displacement relationship of the core, a comprehensive analysis was conducted using a combination of 3D printed models and finite-element simulations. The metamaterial core with gradient-thickness negative-stiffness beams were examined under uniform compression, demonstrating that the snap-through behavior of the curved beams was intricately controlled by the beam thickness in each row. The numerical simulations accurately predicted the deformation characteristics of the graded cellular core, supporting the design of a metamaterial core with functionally varied beam thickness for nonuniform transverse loading. This led to spatially controlled NS core material with specific EA of around 50 J kg−1 and an apparent core shear strength of 0.1 MPa, all mainly within the reusable elastic regime. The resulting sandwich structures efficiently mitigated the localized effect from concentrated compressive forces and achieved complete snap-through buckling in all curve beams. Three-point bending response revealed three distinct phases of flexural deformation: the local facial bending phase, the sequential core-snapping superelastic phase, and the global bending phase.
Energy harvesting with dielectric elastomer tubes: active and (responsive materials-based) passive approaches
Authors: Hanuhov Tamara , Brighenti Roberto , Cohen Noy
Published: March 2024

Mechanical to electrical energy conversion is a well-established energy transduction approach. However, cases in which a mechanical energy source is not available call for new approaches to harvest electrical energy. In the present study, we demonstrate energy harvesting in soft dielectric elastomer (DE) tubes. Broadly, energy harvesting is obtained through inflation of the tube, electrical charging of the DE layer, and deflation, which results in a decrease in capacitance and an increase in voltage. We propose two methods to mechanically charge (or inflate) the system: (1) active, in which the tube is inflated through the application of mechanical pressure, and (2) passive, in which a passive cylindrical component placed inside the DE tube deforms radially in response to an environmental stimulus such as thermal excitation or water uptake and inflates the DE tube. To demonstrate passive charging, we consider gels as the passive component and employ well-known models with the properties of the commonly employed DE VHB 4910 to simulate the mechanical response of the system and estimate the harvested electrical energy. Our findings reveal that energy-densities in the order of ∼10–50 mJ cm–3 can be harvested. The proposed approach and the inclusion of a passive component to mechanically charge the system opens new opportunities to generate energy in environments lacking traditional mechanical energy sources.