bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Molecular evidence of pathogens and endosymbionts in the black horse fly Osca lata (Diptera: Tabanidae) in Southern Chile
Authors: González Christian R. , Reyes Carolina , Castillo Andrés , Valderrama Lara , Llanos Lorena , Fernández Jorge , Eastwood Gillian , Cancino-Faure Beatriz
Published: September 2024

Little is known about the role of horse flies in potential pathogen transmission in Chile. This study provides evidence of the molecular detection of microorganisms in southern Chile. In the present study, adult Osca lata horse flies were trapped from Punucapa (39°45’06”S/73°16’08”W, Región de Los Ríos) and Puyehue (40°39’10”S/72°10’57”W, Región de Los Lagos), Chile. Among the 95 samples analyzed by PCR using specific primers, microorganisms were detected in 23.2% (n = 22) of the samples. Rickettsia spp. DNA was detected in 15.8% (n = 15) of the samples, Trypanosomatidae DNA in 5.3% (n = 5) of the samples, and filarial DNA in 2.1% (n = 2) of the samples. This study found that horse flies in the region are capable of carrying a variety of both parasites and endosymbionts. Further research is needed to understand the specific impact of horse flies as mechanical or biological vectors and develop effective control measures to prevent the spread of any microorganisms associated with disease.
The influence of model choice and input data on pollinator habitat suitability in the Hannover region
Authors: Hinsch Malte , Groß Jens , Burkhard Benjamin
Published: September 2024

The habitat suitability for pollinators is an important factor for biodiversity and crop-based ecosystem services. Most flowering plants, including wild plants, rely on pollination ecosystem services for fructification and reproduction. Suitable nesting sites and accessible floral food resources are crucial to the abundance of pollinator insects. Therefore, the suitability for pollinators and the pollination service itself are influenced by the type of land use, the composition of the land cover and structures in the landscape. One way to estimate pollinator habitat suitability is to use computer models such as ESTIMAP and InVEST. Both models calculate the habitat suitability based on spatial land use data and their suitability as nesting and feeding habitats. Besides the decision for a model, the selected spatial dataset also has important effects on the modelling results. In Germany, a large number of Land Use and Land Cover (LULC) datasets is available, such as the European CORINE Land Cover, CORINE Urban Atlas, Biotope types, ATKIS or Open Street Map. These datasets differ in terms of spatial and thematic resolutions, LULC types, and abundance of structural elements, which are crucial input factors for modelling with ESTIMAP and InVEST. We applied and tested both models on the basis of two different datasets in the study area Hannover region in central Germany. A literature-based estimation and expert-based questionnaire determined the biophysical properties required for modelling with ESTIMAP and InVEST. The differences between the results based on two different spatial datasets and the differences between the models were estimated and the results that can be obtained by using freely available data were investigated and compared with the results based on non-publicly available data. The comparison of the results shows that the proportion of near-natural structures in the landscape are a decisive factor for modelling results. The comparison of the models shows that ESTIMAP estimates a higher influence of small structures in the landscape than InVEST, resulting in a higher pollinator habitat suitability. The median similarity index of the two models is between 0.68 to 0.93 for the highly detailed biotope type dataset and 0.40 to 0.79 for the less detailed Corine dataset. The results provide a guidance on how to choose the appropriate model and data to assess pollination ecosystem services.
Public sector employment rigidity and macroeconomic fluctuation: A DSGE simulation for China
Authors: Zhang Xiaodi
Published: September 2024

Public sector employment in China has exhibited pronounced non-cyclical characteristics, with a recruiting scale and wage level showing limited responsiveness to economic fluctuations. The allure of civil service jobs in China has seen a significant resurgence post-COVID-19, with an observable increase in demand among educated job seekers for stable government positions amid growing economic uncertainties. This study investigates the implications of public sector employment rigidity on macroeconomic stability using a dynamic stochastic general equilibrium (DSGE) model integrated with search and matching (S&M) theory. Simulations incorporating alternative government job policies reveal that non-cyclical public employment exacerbates macroeconomic cyclical fluctuations. The low elasticity of public sector wages with respect to corporate wages fosters stable expectations among workers regarding the future value of government jobs, increasing the perceived value of the current state of unemployment. This leads job seekers to voluntarily remain unemployed, reducing labor supply to firms. Meantime, it preserves workers’ bargaining power with firms, reinforcing wage stickiness and undermining the stabilizing role of price adjustments in employment. Hypothetical scenario analyses indicate that adopting a pro-cyclical wage policy for the public sector can mitigate the obstacles of wage cuts for firms, stimulate the creation of new jobs during economic downturns, and consequently reduce the magnitude and duration of rising unemployment rates. In contrast, maintaining a non-cyclical public sector wage may not prevent a continuous rise in unemployment or a worsening economic situation, even with expanded sector recruitment. This finding holds significant relevance in the context of the post-COVID era characterized by an economic slump and employment tension, providing theoretical support for establishing a transparent and flexible wage adjustment mechanism in the public sector that is linked to market conditions.
A structural equation model to access the regional public brands of agricultural products: Case of Chinese Yingde black tea
Authors: Zhang Jian , Ke Xiaojun , Jiang Songyu
Published: September 2024

The regional public brand of agricultural products plays an important role in the development of agricultural economy. How to effectively build regional public brands for agricultural products is an urgent practical problem that needs to be solved in various regions. This study uses Chinese Yingde black tea as a case, aims to understand how government support, resource endowment, industrial clusters, and regional culture affect the regional public brand of agricultural products based on regional brand theory. We collected 416 valid sample data from practitioners related to Yingde black tea through an online survey questionnaire, and used structural equation modeling to obtain government support (β = 0.196, p<0.005), resource allowance (β = 0.144, p<0.05), industrial cluster (β = 0.231, p<0.005) and regional culture (β = 0.335, p<0.005) are positively related to reputation of regional public brands for agricultural products. Industrial clusters and regional culture play the mediating roles between government support, resource empowerment, and the reputation of regional public brands for agricultural products. The results breaks through the single influencing factor perspective of existing research and comprehensively analyzes the interrelationships of different influencing factors in the formation process of regional public brands for agricultural products. It has certain practical implications for the construction of regional public brands for agricultural products in China.
Metformin lotion promotes scarless skin tissue formation through AMPK activation, TGF-β1 inhibition, and reduced myofibroblast numbers
Authors: Zhang Jianying , Shimozaki Kengo , Hattori Soichi , Pastukh Vasyl , Maloney Derek , Hogan MaCalus V. , Wang James H-C.
Published: September 2024

Scar tissue formation following skin wound healing is a challenging public health problem. Skin regeneration and preventing the formation of scar tissue by currently available commercial products are largely ineffective. This study aimed to test the efficacy of a novel topical metformin lotion (ML) in inhibiting scar tissue formation during skin wound healing in rats and to determine the mechanisms of action involved. A 6% ML was prepared in our laboratory. A skin wound healing model in rats was used. The wounded rats were divided into two groups and treated daily for 10 days as follows: Group 1 received a daily application of 50 mg of control lotion, or 0% ML (totaling 100 mg of lotion per rat), and Group 2 received a daily application of 50 mg of 6% ML (totaling 100 mg of 6% ML per rat). Blood samples from the heart of each rat were analyzed for inflammatory markers, HMGB1 and IL-1β, using ELISA, and immunological and histological analyses were performed on skin tissue sections. ML decreased levels of inflammatory markers HMGB1 and IL-1β in the serum of rats and inhibited the release of HMGB1 from cell nuclei into the skin tissue matrix. Additionally, ML demonstrated anti-fibrotic properties by enhancing AMPK activity, decreasing the expression of TGF-β1, reducing the number of myofibroblasts, decreasing the production of collagen III, and increasing the expression of collagen I. ML promotes the regeneration of high-quality skin during wound healing by reducing scar tissue formation. This effect is mediated through the activation of AMPK, inhibition of TGF-β1, and a decrease in the number of myofibroblasts.
Preferences for advisor agreement and accuracy
Authors: Jaquiery Matt , Yeung Nick
Published: September 2024

Previous research has shown that people are more influenced by advisors who are objectively more accurate, but also by advisors who tend to agree with their own initial opinions. The present experiments extend these ideas to consider people’s choices of who they receive advice from—the process of source selection. Across a series of nine experiments, participants were first exposed to advisors who differed in objective accuracy, the likelihood of agreeing with the participants’ judgments, or both, and then were given choice over who would advise them across a series of decisions. Participants saw these advisors in the context of perceptual decision and general knowledge tasks, sometimes with feedback provided and sometimes without. We found evidence that people can discern accurate from inaccurate advice even in the absence of feedback, but that without feedback they are biased to select advisors who tend to agree with them. When choosing between advisors who are accurate vs. likely to agree with them, participants overwhelmingly choose accurate advisors when feedback is available, but show wide individual differences in preference when feedback is absent. These findings extend previous studies of advice influence to characterise patterns of advisor choice, with implications for how people select information sources and learn accordingly.
Boosting global sales and transnational circulation: Public financing of film and TV fiction and animation in Flanders and Denmark
Authors: Kostovska Ivana
Published: September 2024

This article examines the role of public financiers in the context of digital distribution and the increased involvement of global streamers in financing local content. Through a comparative analysis, it explores how screen policy mixes aimed at funding fiction and animation films and series in two small European markets, Denmark and Flanders, adapt to and influence the transnational orientation in response to globalization and the rise of online distribution. Based on interviews in Denmark and Flanders combined with data analysis, the article shows that in the context of rising production budgets, transnational production and intense international competition, screen agencies and other public financiers have also become more transnationally oriented. Both in Flanders and Denmark, screen agencies put increased emphasis on enabling international financing and distribution opportunities for fiction and animation films and series. How to regulate and co-finance with global streamers has become an important question for policy stakeholders. As echoed in the interviews, producers in Flanders and Denmark agree that outward-looking policies for attracting commercial financing are becoming more important for strengthening the financing base of local works. It is significant to outline that policies fostering transnational financing and distribution do not stand in opposition to cultural protectionism. For example, investment obligations for global streamers can have the dual function of safeguarding the production ecology while promoting transnational sale and distribution. In smaller markets, such as Denmark and Flanders, aligning policy tools is essential, given that public funding for fiction and animation is crucial lever for achieving ambitious budgets and attracting private financing.
Investigation of pulmonary artery and circulating endothelin-1 expression in dogs with pulmonary hypertension secondary to myxomatous mitral valve disease
Authors: Tangmahakul Nattawan , Rungsipipat Anudep , Surachetpong Sirilak Disatian
Published: September 2024

Background and Aim: Pulmonary hypertension (PH) is a condition characterized by abnormally elevated pressure in the pulmonary vasculature. It is a common complication of myxomatous mitral valve disease (MMVD) in dogs. Several vasoactive substances, including endothelin-1 (ET-1), have been suggested to contribute to pathological changes in the pulmonary arteries of patients with PH. This study aimed to examine the local and systemic expression of ET-1 in dogs with PH secondary to MMVD.

Materials and Methods: Lung tissues were collected from 20 client-owned dogs during the first stage of the study and divided into three groups: normal dogs (n = 5), MMVD dogs (n = 8), and MMVD+PH dogs (n = 7). The expression of ET-1 and endothelin A receptor (ETAR) in the pulmonary arteries was determined using immunohistochemistry. Blood samples were collected from 61 client-owned dogs for the second stage of the study and divided into three groups: normal (n = 22), MMVD (n = 20), and MMVD+PH (n = 19). Plasma ET-1 concentration was measured using a sandwich enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay.

Results: There was no difference in ET-1 and ETAR expression in the pulmonary arteries among the three groups. Similarly, there was no difference in the plasma ET-1 concentration between the groups. In addition, no correlation was found between the immunohistochemical expression of ET-1 and ETAR and the thickness of the pulmonary arteries or between the plasma ET-1 level and echocardiographic variables.

Conclusion: The lack of difference in the expression of ET-1 and ETAR in the pulmonary arteries and in the circulating ET-1 concentration among the studied groups suggests that ET-1 may not be related to the pathological development of PH secondary to MMVD in dogs. Due to the small sample size in this study, further research is needed to confirm these findings.

Keywords: canine, degenerative mitral valve disease, endothelin, post-capillary pulmonary hypertension.
Extrahepatic Intraductal Papillary Neoplasms of Bile Duct and Klatskin Tumor: Simultaneous Occurrence and Recurrence?
Authors: Abuassi Mohammad , Obed Mikal , Dintner Sebastian , Füzesi Laszlo , Siyam Mahmood , Jarrad Anwar , Obed Aiman
Published: September 2024

This case report presents a 64-year-old woman with unique occurrence and recurrence of 2 different neoplastic entities, extrahepatic intraductal papillary neoplasm of bile duct and Klatskin tumor (hilar cholangiocarcinoma or central bile duct carcinoma), found simultaneously in close proximity. To date, this coexistence and recurrence with long survival time has not been reported. The patient in this case is remarkable for both the combination of intraductal papillary neoplasm of bile duct and cholangiocarcinoma, confirmed with specimen from the first surgical intervention in 2005, and recurrence of both tumors after 15 years and the patient's extraordinary survival with histological proven liver cirrhosis Child-Pugh class A. This case highlights the possibility of simultaneous occurrence and late recurrence of different neoplasms in the bile duct system and calls attention to the need for consideration in atypical cases.
Developing an Ordered Logistics Regression Model for Denture Hygiene among Elderly in Residential Care Homes
Authors:   School of Dental Sciences, Health Campus, Universiti Sains Malaysia, Kelantan, Malaysia, Muhamad Amir W Ahmad Wan , Hasan Ruhaya ,   School of Dental Sciences, Health Campus, Universiti Sains Malaysia, Kelantan, Malaysia, Nasarudin Adnan Mohamad ,   School of Dental Sciences, Health Campus, Universiti Sains Malaysia, Kelantan, Malaysia, Muna Mohamad Ghazali Farah ,   School of Dental Sciences, Health Campus, Universiti Sains Malaysia, Kelantan, Malaysia, Bin Shahzad Hazik ,   Department of Surgical Sciences, University of Oxford, Headington, United Kingdom, Azlida Aleng Nor ,   Faculty of Computer Science and Mathematics, Universiti Malaysia Terengganu, Terengganu, Malaysia, Shafiq Mohd Ibrahim Mohamad ,   Kulliyyah of Dentistry, International Islamic University Malaysia, Pahang, Malaysia
Published: September 2024

With a global aging population, the oral hygiene of elderly individuals in institutional settings requires unique management. Maintaining adequate denture hygiene is a critical aspect of their overall well-being, while neglecting denture hygiene can lead to various oral health issues, malnutrition, and further impacting their overall health. Objective: This paper aims to provide a preliminary overview of denture hygiene care among the elderly using an ordered logistics model. Methods: Data was obtained from 174 participants in two government institutional homes in Malaysia. The Principle Components Analysis (PCA) was used to identify significant variables and an ordered logistic model showed the relationships between these variables and denture hygiene. Results: PCA identified three significant variables: calf circumference, age, and appetite. The ordered logistic model shows that lower calf circumference, lower age groups and severe loss of appetite, all were associated with significantly poorer denture hygiene. The model’s fitting and goodness-of-fit was also assesed and found to be satisfactory. Conclusion: Poor denture hygiene is prevelant among institutionalized elderly. Addressing these issues is crucial for caregivers and healthcare providers to enhance the well-being of the aging population. This research provides a foundation for future interventions to improve denture hygiene and, by extension, overall health and quality of life for institutionalized elderly individuals.
Trustworthiness: Public reactions to COVID-19 crisis communication
Authors: Skogerbø Eli , Ihlen Øyvind , Kjeldsen Jens Elmelund , Vranic Anja
Published: September 2024

In an unprecedented situation of uncertainty, the COVID-19 pandemic tested the public crisis communication capacity. Using focus group data, this study analyzes public reactions to COVID-19 policies in Scandinavia. In line with the “rally around the flag” hypothesis, trust in public health authorities remained high in all three Scandinavian countries throughout the COVID-19 pandemic. We asked how people assessed the trustworthiness of authorities, and how they discussed reasons for complying with regulations and recommendations. Our findings suggest that the trustworthiness of experts and leaders was continually negotiated, manufactured, and renegotiated, producing critical and conditional trust. Willingness to and reasons for complying with measures to curb the disease were expressed and justified by participants from Sweden, Norway, and Denmark, notwithstanding the national policies consisting of harsh regulations and mild pressure.
Advancements in CNT-based materials for optimized pharmaceutical removal via adsorption and photocatalysis
Authors: Malik Adnan , Haider Ali , Qamar Muhammad Azam , Arooj Yusra , Meriam Suhaimy Syazwan Hanani , Ahmad Rehan
Published: September 2024

Water treatment plays a crucial role in meeting the growing demand for water and preventing future shortages. The unique and adaptable arbitrary, physical, and chemical properties of carbon nanotubes (CNTs) make them an attractive candidate for use in water treatment. CNTs are employed in environmental applications because of their exceptional adsorbent, mechanical, and chemical characteristics. Functional groups chemically or physically modify pure CNTs, improving their desalination and extraction capabilities. The advantages of CNT-based composites, such as antifouling performance, excellent selectivity, and higher water permeability, reassure us of their effectiveness in water treatment. This review comprehensively discusses the structural features and synthetic methods of CNTs. The functionalization and the pros and cons of functionalized CNT materials are also discussed. Pharmaceutical compounds are often manufactured using batch processes, resulting in the production of various products in wastewater. The occurrence of pharmaceutical compounds in drinking water arises from two distinct origins: the pharmaceutical industry’s manufacturing procedures and the widespread use of pharmaceutical compounds, which leads to their presence in urban and agricultural wastewater. This review discusses role of CNT-based nanomaterials in effectively removing pharmaceutical waste from wastewater through adsorption and photocatalytic processes. Lastly, the future approach is discussed to develop CNT-based nanomaterials better.
Evaluative language in Chinese online food discourse: overall distribution, local patterning, and readers’ involvement
Authors: Hsu Chan-Chia , Chang Yu-Yun , Biao Yun
Published: September 2024

Internet users often express their evaluation of food in online posts. This study sets out to comprehensively annotate evaluative words in food posts in Chinese, which deserves more attention due to its increasing dominance on the Internet. The corpus includes 180 posts from Dcard, currently the largest anonymous social media platform in Taiwan. All the words annotated to be evaluative are categorized according to their grammatical class, evaluative function, and subjective polarity. We not only provide the frequency distributions of the evaluative words but also conduct four case studies of high-frequency evaluative words, identifying their lexico-syntactic patterns. While previous studies on evaluative language have tended to focus on particular words/phrases, with the data mainly from English, the present study provides a more comprehensive quantitative perspective and extends to Chinese data. Moreover, because conveying evaluations in online forums can be a mediatized performance intended for attention and visibility, our qualitative analysis demonstrates how Dcard users establish readers’ involvement through evaluation.
Friction and wear performance of electrospark deposited Ni/C-MoS2 self-lubricating coating
Authors:   School of Equipment Engineering, Shenyang Ligong University, Shenyang 110159, China, Kong F. L. , Zhang L. ,   North Huaan Industry Group Co. Ltd, Qiqihaer 161046, China, Zhao W. J. ,   Liaoshen lndusteries Croup Co. Ltd, Shenyang 110045, China, Zheng D. S. ,   Norinco Group Air Ammunition Research Institute Co.,Ltd., Haerbin 15001, China, Sui T. J. ,   Norinco Group Air Ammunition Research Institute Co.,Ltd., Haerbin 15001, China, Zhu G. L. ,   School of Equipment Engineering, Shenyang Ligong University, Shenyang 110159, China, Guo C. A. ,   School of Equipment Engineering, Shenyang Ligong University, Shenyang 110159, China
Published: September 2024

A Ni/C-MoS2 coating was electrospark deposited by using an electrode made of sinered Ni-C-MoS2 composite on a CrNi3MoVA steel substrate, and its nano-mechanical properties and tribological properties were obtained by utilizing nano-indenter and friction-abrasion testing machine. The results showed that the phase constitution of the as-deposited Ni/C-MoS2 coating mainly includes graphite, MoS2, γ-Ni, MoO2, NixS and MoC. Compared with the CrNi3MoVA steel and Ni/MoS2 coating, the Ni/C-MoS2 coating exhibits better tribological properties due to the matrix strengthened by MoO2 and MoC, and the synergistic lubrication effect of graphite and MoS2 in the Ni/C-MoS2 coating.
The effect of uniaxial mechanical stress on electronic and dynamic properties of silicon
Authors:   Andijan State University, Andijan, 170100, Uzbekistan, Aliev R. , Rashidov B. ,   Andijan State University, Andijan, 170100, Uzbekistan, Mirzaalimov A. ,   Andijan State Pedagogical Institute, Andijan, 170100, Uzbekistan, Mirzaalimov N. ,   Andijan State University, Andijan, 170100, Uzbekistan, Aliev S. ,   Andijan Machine Building Institute, Andijan, 170119, Uzbekistan, Gulomova I. ,   Andijan State University, Andijan, 170100, Uzbekistan, Gulomov J. ,   Andijan State Pedagogical Institute, Andijan, 170100, Uzbekistan
Published: September 2024

This study explores the variation of highly symmetric points in the band structure, revealing a shift from G-X symmetric K path to Z-G path under the influence of mechanical stress. Notably, the band gap decreased linearly with increasing mechanical stress, while the effective mass of the electron, heavy hole, and light hole exhibited different trends. The variation of band gap, effective mass of electron, heavy and light holes, electron affinity, dielectric constant in x and y direction has been found to be -0.1238 eV/GPa, -6E-3 1/GPa, -7.9E-3 1/GPa, 1.4E-2 1/GPa, 4.7e-2 eV/GPa, 7.3e-2 1/GPa and -10.3e-2 1/GPa, respectively.
Nanoindentation and mechanical characteristics of TiO2/polypropylene polymer nanocomposite
Authors:   Research Scholar, Mechanical Engineering, Noorul Islam Centre for Higher Education, Kumaracoil -629180, Tamilnadu, India, Favas A. S. , Bavanish B. ,   Principal, Noorul Islam College of Engineering and Technology, Punkarai, Thiruvithancode, Kanyakumari District-629174 Tamilnadu, India
Published: September 2024

This research investigates the nano-titanium oxides (TiO2), impact on the composition, nano-indenter test, and mechanical characteristics of Polypropylene (PP). The incorporation of TiO2 nanoparticles into a solution of PP polymer led to the creation of a homogeneous blend. Hydraulic pressing yields a polymer nanocomposite rectangular sheet of 2 millimetres in thickness. In order to examine the nanocomposites, XRD (X-ray diffraction) and FTIR (Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy) were used. The dispersion of the nanoparticles was analysed using a field emission scanning electron microscope (FESEM). The addition of TiO2 nanoparticles at concentrations of 2 and 4 wt% was used to modify polypropylene, while the proportion of polypropylene remained constant at 1% weight. X-ray and FTIR analysis confirmed the existence of TiO2, whereas the SEM findings demonstrated the effective distribution of TiO2 throughout the PP matrix. An investigation was conducted to examine the impact of TiO2 on the mechanical characteristics of PP. The samples were subjected to mechanical characterizations utilising traditional methods such as flexural strength, tensile strength, impact resistance, and nanoindentation. The mechanical investigation revealed that the nano hardness of the changed coating, as measured by nanoindentation, exhibited a maximum increase of 36.9% in comparison to the unmodified coatings. The nanocomposites exhibited enhanced mechanical characteristics, with the nano hardness and elastic modulus of the nanocomposite samples surpassing those of pure PP.
Advancing PV technology with ZnO/Ag+ nanocomposites
Authors:   Department of R&D, New Horizon College of Engineering, Bengaluru, India, Revathi V. , Sheeba Rani S. ,   Department of Electronics and Communication Engineering, Sri Eshwar College of Engineering, Coimbatore, Balamurugan M. ,   Centre for Photonics and Nanotechnology, Department of Chemistry, Sona College of Technology, Salem, Tamilnadu, India, Manikumar T. ,   Department of computer science and Engineering, Kalasalingam Academy of Research and Education, (Deemed to be University), Krishnan Kovil, Tamilnadu, India, Sivakumar S. ,   Department of Physics, Government Arts College (Autonomous), Salem, Tamilnadu, India, Sangeetha B. ,   Department of Electrical and Electronics Engineering, AVS Engineering College, Salem, Tamilnadu, India
Published: September 2024

This study focuses on the synthesis and characterization of hybrid zinc oxide/silver ion (ZnO/Ag+) nanocomposites tailored for PV cell applications. The nanocomposites are synthesized through a cost-effective method, leveraging the unique properties of both ZnO and Ag. Characterization techniques including X-ray diffraction (XRD), scanning electron microscopy (SEM) are employed to analyze the structural, morphological and optical properties of the nanocomposites. Moreover, the electrical properties and photoelectric performance of the PV solar cells are evaluated and compared with conventional PV devices. The results demonstrate the potential of ZnO/Ag+ nanocomposites in enhancing the overall performance of PV solar cells.
Real-time monitoring of nanocellulose suspension concentration using a liquid–solid triboelectric nanogenerator
Authors:   Guangxi Key Laboratory of Clean Pulp & Papermaking and Pollution Control, School of Light Industry and Food Engineering, Guangxi University, Nanning, 530004, China, Qin L. L. , Zhou Y. Y. ,   Guangxi Key Laboratory of Clean Pulp & Papermaking and Pollution Control, School of Light Industry and Food Engineering, Guangxi University, Nanning, 530004, China, Lei Y. B ,   Guangxi Key Laboratory of Clean Pulp & Papermaking and Pollution Control, School of Light Industry and Food Engineering, Guangxi University, Nanning, 530004, China, Cai H. , Wang C. , Li W. H. ,   Guangxi Key Laboratory of Clean Pulp & Papermaking and Pollution Control, School of Light Industry and Food Engineering, Guangxi University, Nanning, 530004, China, Huang Y. L ,   HuangGuangxi Key Laboratory of Clean Pulp & Papermaking and Pollution Control, School of Light Industry and Food Engineering, Guangxi University, Nanning, 530004, China, Qin S. D. ,   Guangxi Key Laboratory of Clean Pulp & Papermaking and Pollution Control, School of Light Industry and Food Engineering, Guangxi University, Nanning, 530004, China, Sha J. L. ,   Guangxi Key Laboratory of Clean Pulp & Papermaking and Pollution Control, School of Light Industry and Food Engineering, Guangxi University, Nanning, 530004, China
Published: September 2024

Monitoring and controlling the concentration of nanocellulose suspensions is crucial for various industrial processes. Because of the high complexity of traditional concentration measurement devices, new techniques that offer simple, reliable, and real-time concentration monitoring have been developed. Here, we report a method for real-time concentration monitoring using a tubular structured liquid–solid triboelectric nanogenerator (LS-TENG). The LS-TENG was operated in single-electrode mode with a triboelectric layer comprising a polytetrafluoroethylene tube. Further, we systematically investigated the dependence of the device output performance on variables such as concentration, flow rate, tube diameter, and tube material, finding it to be directly proportional to the flow rate and tube diameter and inversely proportional to the concentration. Furthermore, the output current of the LS-TENG exhibited an exponential relationship with the concentration of the nanocellulose suspension and the Reynolds number, achieving a correlation coefficient above 0.94 for the corresponding regression equation. This study provides a direct, accurate, real-time, and self-powered method for monitoring nanocellulose suspension concentrations.
Construction of Ti3C2/BiOBr heterojunction for efficient removal of antibiotics
Authors:   School of Mechanical Engineering, Chengdu University, Chengdu, 610106, China, Zhong Y. , Lei K. ,   School of Mechanical Engineering, Chengdu University, Chengdu, 610106, China, Duan Y. J. ,   School of Mechanical Engineering, Chengdu University, Chengdu, 610106, China, Zeng X. H. ,   School of Mechanical Engineering, Chengdu University, Chengdu, 610106, China, Mao L. J. ,   School of Mechanical Engineering, Chengdu University, Chengdu, 610106, China, Hu S. J. ,   School of Mechanical Engineering, Chengdu University, Chengdu, 610106, China, Dong H. R. ,   School of Mechanical Engineering, Chengdu University, Chengdu, 610106, China, Lv S. M. ,   School of Mechanical Engineering, Chengdu University, Chengdu, 610106, China, Xiong R. ,   School of Architecture and Civil Engineering, Chengdu University, Chengdu, 610106, China, Sun Y. ,   School of Mechanical Engineering, Chengdu University, Chengdu, 610106, China
Published: September 2024

Layered Ti3C2 was prepared by etching Ti3AlC2 powder with hydrofluoric acid, and Ti3C2/BiOBr (TB) composites was successfully synthesized via in-situ deposition method. The effects of BiOBr content in the composites on their crystal structure, morphology and photocatalytic properties were systematically discussed. The experimental results indicate that the Ti3C2 introduction can promote the degradation of tetracycline owing to fast separation of photoexcited charge carriers. When the mass ratios of Ti3C2 to BiOBr were 1:50, Ti3C2/BiOBr exhibited the highest removal efficiency of 80.3% after 30 min of illumination. Furthermore, a possible degradation mechanism was clarified by the band structure and the trapping experiment.
Successful delivery in the setting of SDHB metastatic paraganglioma
Authors: Majumder M , Gild M L , Robinson B G
Published: September 2024

Pregnancy in the setting of metastatic paraganglioma is challenging, particularly in the context of tyrosine kinase use. We describe a 26-year-old female with a background of metastatic paraganglioma harboring a pathogenic SDHB variant, requiring sunitinib, which was withheld to facilitate the safe conception and delivery of a healthy baby. She required no alpha- or beta-blockade during her pregnancy and exhibited no signs of tumor progression or symptoms throughout this period. Historically, higher rates of fetal and maternal morbidity and mortality have been experienced in the setting of pregnancy. Although limited data exist on the management of metastatic paraganglioma in pregnant patients, this case suggests that careful treatment modifications, such as temporary tyrosine kinase therapy cessation and vigilant monitoring, can result in successful pregnancies without compromising maternal or fetal well-being.

Learning points

Paraganglioma in pregnancy has been associated with poor fetal and maternal morbidity and mortality.

Many of the treatment modalities for metastatic paraganglioma, including tyrosine kinase inhibitors, can affect fertility or cannot be utilized in pregnancy, necessitating the temporary suspension of these treatments.

This case exemplifies that careful clinical and biochemical monitoring during pregnancy is required to avoid maternal and fetal harm while balancing the risk of disease progression off treatment.
SEMI-TRANSPARENT HEATER BASED ON THIN GOLD FILMS
Authors: КОЛОСОВСКИЙ Д.А. , СТАРИНСКИЙ С.В.
Published: September 2024

Продемонстрирована возможность создания полупрозрачного нагревателя на основе тонких плёнок золота. Плёнка золота толщиной 15 нм с поверхностным сопротивлением 3,5 Ом/□ и коэффициентом пропускания в видимом диапазоне 0,4 была напылена на кварцевую подложку методом импульсного лазерного осаждения. Максимальная температура нагрева полупрозрачного нагревателя составила 113 °C при подаваемой мощности 1,2 Вт. При подаче напряжения скорость нагрева варьировалась в диапазоне 1-2 °C/с, а при приближении температуры к стационарному состоянию быстро падала.

We demonstrate the possibility of designing a semitransparent heater based on thin gold films. A thin 15 nm thick gold film with a surface resistivity of 3.5 Ω/□ and a transmittance in the visible range of 0.4 is deposited on a quartz substrate by pulsed laser deposition. The maximum heating temperature of the semitransparent heater is 113 °C at an applied power of 1.2 W. When a voltage is applied, the heating rate varies between 1-2 °C/s, and the rate rapidly decreases as the temperature approaches a steady state.
VERTICALLY ALIGNED CARBON NANOTUBES GROWN ON HAFNIUM OXIDE: STRUCTURE AND PROPERTIES
Authors: ЩЕГЛОВ Д.В. , РОДЯКИН С.В. , НАСИМОВ Д.А. , КУРУСЬ Н.Н. , БОРОВИК А.С. , СЕЛЕЗНЕВ В.А. , ФЕДИНА Л.И. , РОГИЛО Д.И. , СЕМЕНОВА О.И. , ЛАТЫШЕВ А.В.
Published: September 2024

Методом каталитического химического осаждения из газовой фазы впервые выращены массивы вертикально ориентированных углеродных нанотрубок (ВОУНТ) на поверхности Si/HfO2/Fe высотой от 25 до 100 мкм и удельным сопротивлением от 1,5 до 4 Ом · см. Рост ВОУНТ на оксиде гафния наблюдается в интервале температур 625-725 ° C, а при T ≥ 750 ° C не реализуется. При этом температурная зависимость скорости роста ВОУНТ характеризуется величиной ~1,5 эВ. С использованием высокоразрешающей сканирующей электронной микроскопии и спектроскопии комбинационного рассеяния света показано доминирующее присутствие в массиве нанотрубок с диаметрами от 1 до 10 нм. Обнаружено, что нанокристаллизация HfO2 при отжиге подложек затрудняет СЭМ-анализ каталитических частиц Fe, размер которых на поверхности исходного аморфного HfO2 составляет 2-5 нм.

Using the catalytic chemical vapor deposition method, VACNT arrays with a height of 25 to 100 μm and a resistivity of 1.5 to 4 Ohm ⋅ cm have been grown for the first time on a Si/HfO2/Fe surface. The growth of VACNTs on hafnium oxide is observed in the temperature range T = 625-725°C, but is not realized at T ≥ 750 °C. In this case, the temperature dependence of the VACNT growth rate is characterized by a value of ~1.5 eV. Using high-resolution scanning electron microscopy and Raman spectroscopy, the dominant presence of nanotubes with diameters from 1 to 10 nm in the array is shown. It is found that nanocrystallization of HfO2 during annealing of substrates complicates the SEM analysis of catalytic Fe particles whose size on the surface of the initial amorphous HfO2 is 2-5 nm.
PARALLEL METHODS OF SIMULATION OF HETEROEPITAXIAL GROWTH ON MULTIPROCESSOR SYSTEMS WITH SHARED MEMORY
Authors: ПАВСКИЙ К.В. , РЕВУН А.Л. , РУДИН С.А. , ПЕРЫШКОВА Е.Н. , КУРНОСОВ М.Г.
Published: September 2024

Предложены решения, позволяющие повысить эффективность исполнения параллельных программ на высокопроизводительных вычислительных системах, при моделировании гетероэпитаксиального роста на многопроцессорных системах с общей памятью. Разработанные алгоритмы ориентированы на выполнение программной реализации моделирования гетероэпитаксиального роста на многопроцессорных NUMA-узлах с общей памятью. Основное требование к эффективному выполнению параллельных программ на ресурсах многопроцессорного узла заключается в учёте архитектурно-ориентированного подхода к реализации алгоритмов передачи данных через разделяемую память NUMA-узлов. Предложенные алгоритмы оптимизации синхронизации в системах с общей памятью повышают эффективность доступа к общей памяти многопроцессорного узла и позволяют сократить время выполнения барьерной синхронизации. Разработанные методы и алгоритмы реализованы в виде программного обеспечения для многопроцессорных NUMA-узлов с общей памятью.

This paper proposes solutions that increase the efficiency of parallel program execution on high-performance computing systems when simulating heteroepitaxial growth on multiprocessor systems with shared memory. The developed algorithms are oriented towards the execution of program implementation of simulation of heteroepitaxial growth on multiprocessor NUMA nodes with shared memory. The primary prerequisite for the effective execution of parallel programs on the resources of a multiprocessor node is the incorporation of an architectural approach to the implementation of algorithms for data transfer through the shared memory of NUMA nodes. The proposed algorithms for optimizing synchronization in shared memory systems enhance the efficiency of accessing the shared memory of a multiprocessor node and reduce the time required for barrier synchronization. The developed methods and algorithms are implemented in the form of software for multiprocessor NUMA nodes with shared memory.
BOLT PROFILE GEOMETRY EFFECT ON LOAD-BEARING CHARACTERISTICS OF FULLY GROUTED ROCK BOLTS
Authors: БАГХЕРИ М. , БАХШАНДЕХ А.Х. , ДЖАЛАЛИФАР Х.
Published: September 2024

Проведены испытания на вытягивание нескольких видов зацементированных в полимере арматурных анкеров с целью исследования влияния геометрии их профиля на механизм передачи нагрузки. Рассмотрено 12 наборов образцов трех типов болтов с различными профилями. Исследовано влияние длины анкеровки 75 и 150 мм на примере арматурных анкеров. Показано, что способность анкера передавать нагрузки и смещение при пиковой нагрузке соотносится с конфигурацией профиля и кольцевой толщиной цементирующего полимера. Анкеры с шагом ребер 12.5; 16; 25 и 8 мм продемонстрировали высокую пиковую прочность на сдвиг. При уменьшении шага ребер и длины анкеровки наблюдалось увеличение системной жесткости. При увеличении длины анкеровки c 75 до 150 мм напряжение сдвига и их жесткость уменьшились. При увеличении кольцевой толщины цементирующего полимера пиковая нагрузка снизилась.

A series of laboratory pull-out tests were performed on several types of bolts to investigate the effect of profile geometry of resin grouted bolts on load transfer mechanism. Therefore, three different types of bolts were used to prepare twelve series of specimens with different profiles. To evaluate the effect of bond length, the specimens were made using rebar bolts with two embedment lengths of 75 mm and 150 mm. The results showed that load transfer capacity and displacement at peak load were effectively related to the profile configuration and annulus thickness of resin. The bolt types T1 and G2 had higher peak share stress levels and the bolts with a rib spacing of 12.5, 16, 25 and 8 mm had the highest peak shear strength, respectively. By decreasing the rib spacing and embedment length, the system stiffness increased. In the bolt types T1 and G2, by increasing the embedment length from 75 mm to 150 mm, the shear stress decreased by 7.8% and 10.5% and their stiffness decreased by 60.8% and 75.6%, respectively. As the thickness of the resin annulus increased, the peak load decreased.
SELECTIVITY OF CALCIUM-BEARING MINERAL FLOTATION WITH OXYHYDRYL COLLECTOR
Authors: КОНДРАТЬЕВ С.А. , ЦИЦИЛИНА Д.М.
Published: September 2024

Представлен краткий обзор публикаций по флотации кальцийсодержащих минералов. Установлена связь флотационной активности собирателя с работой, выполняемой физически сорбируемым собирателем при закреплении минеральной частицы на пузырьке газа. Экспериментально показано, что снижение работы физической формы сорбции приводит к уменьшению извлечения и увеличению отношения содержания полезного компонента в концентрате к его извлечению. Установленная зависимость - основа для разработки новых методов повышения качества флотационных концентратов. Предложен метод выбора композиции собирателей, позволяющий повысить селективность извлечения полезных минералов

A brief literature review on flotation of calcium-bearing minerals is given. It is found that flotation activity of a collector is connected with physisorption of the collector in particle-bubble attachment. The tests prove that physisorption decrease reduces recovery and increases the useful component content /yield ratio in the concentrate. The found correlation is a framework for new approaches to quality improvement of flotation concentrates. The method proposed to select compositions of collectors can enhance selectivity of extraction of useful minerals.
PROPERTIES OF GOLD-BEARING HUMIC ACIDS
Authors: ЗАШИХИН А.В. , СУВОРОВА О.Н.
Published: September 2024

Золотосодержащие гуминовые препараты рассмотрены в качестве объекта для исследования в них форм золота. Приведены результаты экспериментов, позволяющие оценить подвижность соединений золота при осаждении гуминовых кислот. Серией опытов по переосаждению гуминовых кислот показаны близкие свойства золота, растворенного в присутствии селективного растворителя и без него. При помощи аминокислотного анализа гуминовых кислот до и после их взаимодействия с гидроксидом аммония показано увеличение содержания способных к растворению золота аминокислот. Стадийным центрифугированием золотосодержащих жидких гуминовых кислот при ускорении от 4000g до 233000g и рН 11 исключено наличие в растворе золотосодержащих наночастиц, что позволяет охарактеризовать гомогенность растворов. Показано влияние воздействия деструктивных по отношению к органическим соединениям факторов на совместное осаждение золота и гуминовых кислот.

The test of gold-bearing humic substances aimed to find forms of gold in them. The test results enable estimation of gold compound mobility during sedimentation of humic acids. Re-sedimentation of humic acids shows similar properties of gold after dissolving with and without a selective dissolver. The amino-acid analysis of humic acids before and after their interaction with ammonium hydroxide reveals the increased content of amino acids capable to dissolve gold. Stage-wise spin of gold-bearing liquid humic acids at acceleration from 4000g to 233000g and at pH of 11 ifies gold-bearing particles in solutions and makes the latter homogenous. The authors describe the impact of destructive effects relative to organic compounds on joint sedimentation of gold and humic acids.
Bioconversion of agro-residues to make extracellular polysaccharides in solid state fermentation via Trichoderma hamatum using response surface methodology: Antioxidant and α-glucosidase inhibitor activity
Authors: Adimy Prakash Shoba Savariyar , Elshikh Mohamed S. , Ali Mohammad Ajmal , Biji Gurupatham Devadhasan
Published: September 2024

Agro-residues, including banana peel, pineapple peel, mango peel, apple peel, and coconut husk, were utilized to produce extracellular polysaccharide (EPS) via solid state fermentation(SSF) by the fungus, Trichoderma hamatum. EPS production was highest in pineapple peel (84.2 ± 0.4 mg/g), followed by mango peel (70.3 ± 0.41 mg/g) (p<0.01). The SSF bioprocess was optimized via a two-level full factorial design and response surface methodology. The effects of five selected variables on EPS biosynthesis, namely, the concentrations of glucose (10 to 30%), ammonium sulphate (0.1 to 1%), yeast extract (0.5 to 2%), MgSO4 (0.01 to 0.1%), and medium pH (4.5 to 6.5), were analyzed via a full factorial design (FFD). The EPS production ranged widely from 15.3 to 576.2 mg/g substrate. Three significant variables affecting EPS production were assessed in central composite design (CCD) to optimize concentrations of MgSO4, and glucose, and the pH. The designed CCD model was fitted to the quadratic model and was significant (p<0.0001). For 50 μL of EPS, the scavenging ratio was 43.4 ± 4.1% at a concentration of 200 μL (78.5 ± 6.9 μL) (p<0.01). The extracted EPS exhibited an alpha-glucosidase inhibitory effect (p<0.001). Solid-state fermentation allows the utilization of low-cost biomass for EPS production and the application of T. hamatum EPS as a natural antioxidant and α-glucosidase inhibitor.