bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Small field output correction factors at 18 MV
Authors: Ringholz Jonas , Sauer Otto A. , Wegener Sonja
Published: August 2023

Background

The response of various detectors in the radiotherapy energy range has been investigated, especially for 6 and 10 MV energies for small fields, and is summarized in TRS‐483. However, data for accelerator energies above 10 MV are sparse or unavailable for many detectors, especially for the energy of 18 MV. Small variations in field output factors for the commissioning of a treatment planning system can have a high impact on calculation of dose distributions.

Purpose

Many studies describe an energy dependence of the response for a large number of detectors. We wanted to close the gap for the 18 MV energy regime and determined field output correction factors for different detectors at 18 MV.

Methods

An ELEKTA Versa HD accelerator at 18 MV was used together with a PTW MP3 water phantom at an SSD of 90 cm. The following detectors were examined: PTW Semiflex 31021, PinPoint 3D 31022, diode 60012, diode 60008 and microDiamond 60019, Sun Nuclear EDGE detector, IBA PFD, SFD, Razor Chamber, Razor Nano Chamber and Razor Diode, Standard Imaging Scintillator Exradin W2 1x3, W2 1x1 and Gafchromic EBT3 film. The dose response was determined at a depth of 10 cm for square fields between 0.5 and 10 cm side length. As reference data a composure of radiochromic film data for small fields ( cm) and data of all compatible chambers for larger fields ( cm) was used. The effective field sizes of small fields were determined from profiles obtained on radiochromic film. The obtained field output correction factors obey the rules of the TRS‐483 protocol.

Results

The W2 1x1 scintillator and the Razor Chamber showed the smallest deviations from the reference curve. The shielded diodes (diode 60008, EDGE detector) showed the highest over‐response at small fields, followed by PFD, microDiamond and the unshielded diodes (diode 60012, SFD). The ionization chambers exhibited the well‐known volume effect, that is, strong under‐response at small fields of up to 9% for the PinPoint 3D, 7% for the Razor Chamber and up to 30% for the Semiflex detector for the smallest studied field size. The small chambers showed a polarity effect in axial orientation, especially the Razor Nano Chamber. Corrections at 18 MV are generally larger than those provided by TRS‐483, continuing the trend of increasing corrections between 6 and 10 MV also at a higher accelerator energy. Only the PinPoint 3D Chamber showed a slightly smaller correction.

Conclusions

Field output correction factors were determined for square field sizes between 0.5 and 10 cm at 18 MV. Most detectors needed a larger correction than at 6 and 10 MV. Thus, the use of correction factors will improve beam data for 18 MV.
Anisotropic NMR data acquisition with a prototype 400 MHz cryogen‐free NMR spectrometer
Authors: Silva Elipe Maria Victoria , Ndukwe Ikenna Edward , Navarro‐Vázquez Armando
Published: August 2023

High‐temperature superconducting (HTS) materials have recently been incorporated into the construction of HTS cryogen‐free magnets for nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR) spectroscopy. These HTS NMR spectrometers do not require liquid cryogens, thereby providing significant cost savings and facilitating easy integration into chemistry laboratories. However, the optimal performance of these HTS magnets against standard cryogen NMR magnets must be evaluated, especially with demanding modern NMR applications such as NMR in anisotropic media. The stability of the HTS magnets over time and their performance with complex pulse sequence experiments are the main unknown factors of this new technology. In this study, we evaluate the utility of our prototype 400 MHz cryogen‐free power‐driven HTS NMR spectrometer, installed in the fumehood of a chemistry laboratory, for stereochemical analysis of three commercial natural products (artemisinin, artemether, and dihydroartemisinin) via measurement of anisotropic NMR data, in particular, residual dipolar couplings. The accuracy of measurement of the anisotropic NMR data with the HTS magnet spectrometer is evaluated through the CASE‐3D fitting protocol, as implemented in the Mestrenova‐StereoFitter software program.
Ameta‐analysisof training effects on English phonological awareness and reading in native Chinese speakers
Authors: Jiang Ying , Gai Xiaosong , Üstün‐Yavuz Meryem S. , Zhang Mingzhe , Thomson Jenny M.
Published: August 2023

Enhancing English phonological awareness is critical in promoting native English speakers’ reading development. However, less attention has been paid to the role of phonological awareness development for English language learners in a logographic context. This meta‐analysis aims to evaluate the effectiveness of training native Chinese speakers’ English phonological awareness and reading across age groups. Thirty‐three articles, including 37 independent samples, were identified as training studies that reported English phonological awareness as an outcome measure, and 16 articles, including 17 independent samples, featured training studies that reported reading as an outcome measure. Results based on a random‐effect model revealed the effect sizes for overall English phonological awareness (including English syllable awareness, phoneme awareness, and rhyme awareness) and overall reading (including word reading and pseudoword reading) wereg = 0.651 (n = 3137) andg = 0.498 (n = 1506), respectively. Specifically, instructional training exerted a small impact on word reading (g = 0.297), moderate effects on syllable awareness (g = 0.468) and pseudoword reading (g = 0.586), a medium to large effect on phoneme awareness (g = 0.736), and a large impact on rhyme awareness (g = 0.948). The moderator analyses yielded several significant findings. Regarding the English phonological awareness outcome, programs integrating lexical semantic knowledge exhibited the largest trend in enhancing native Chinese speakers’ skills. Among all age groups, upper elementary students benefited most from instructional training. Furthermore, more intensive training had a greater impact than less intensive training. In terms of the reading outcome, similar to English phonological awareness findings, upper elementary students realized the greatest improvements. Additionally, unpublished articles indicated a larger training effect on reading than published ones. These findings provide practitioners with guidelines for delivering effective instruction to promote phonological awareness and reading ability for English language learners in a logographic language context.
Optimization of polylactic acid 3D printing parameters based on support vector regression and cuckoo search
Authors: Yang Yuan , Dai Xilin , Yang Bo , Zou Peng , Gao Feng , Duan Jihao , Wang Changxu
Published: August 2023

3D printing, also known as additive manufacturing (AM), is evolving from a rapid prototyping tool to a pillar of the Industry 4.0 revolution and widely used in various industries, since it can quickly and efficiently create workpieces with complex structures and integrated functions. After analyzing the 3D printing principle of fused deposition modeling (FDM), this paper proposes a deformation control‐oriented optimization method for process parameters of FDM of the polylactic acid (PLA) materials, based on support vector regression (SVR) and cuckoo search (CS). First, FDM printing principle and its main process parameters were analyzed. Two key parameters, printing temperature and printing speed, were selected for research, with the maximum shrinkage deformation as the workpiece contour accuracy index. Combining Latin Hypercube Sampling (LHS) with Finite Element Analysis (FEA), finite sample sets were generated. Second, learning from the sample data, the SVR surrogate model was built to predict the workpiece contour accuracy, and the nonlinear relationship between FDM process parameters and PLA shrinkage deformation was obtained. Finally, taking the combination of printing temperature and speed as the design variable and minimizing the maximum shrinkage deformation as the optimization objective, the FDM process parameters optimization model was established, and CS was used to search for the optimal parameters combination. Experimental comparison showed that the FEA results and SVR model in this method are correct and effective, and the PLA workpiece shrinkage deformation is smaller under the optimal parameters combination, which effectively improves the shape accuracy of FDM workpieces.

Highlights

Combining support vector regression (SVR) and cuckoo search (CS) can optimize polymer 3D printing process parameters.

Effective finite element model was built for polymer 3D printing.

SVR model established by simulation data can predict workpiece deformation.

The optimal process parameters were found using CS algorithm.
Blown film extrusion of poly(lactic)acid/poly(3‐hydroxybutyrate‐4‐hydroxybutyrate) blends for improved toughness and processability
Authors: Koca Nazan , Aversa Clizia , Barletta Massimiliano
Published: August 2023

Poly(lactic acid) is one of the most commonly used bioplastics thanks to its mechanical performance and low environmental impact. Strategies to overcome excessive rigidity of PLA are constantly investigated. Poor viscoelastic behavior and brittleness of PLA seriously limit its potential application as a common film material. Herein highly amorphous Poly(3‐hydroxybutyrate‐4‐hydroxybutyrate) (P(3HB)(4HB)) was introduced to improve toughness and reduce brittleness of PLA. Anti‐blocking (silica) and anti‐slipping agent (Ethylene bis‐stearamide (EBS)) were added to improve the processability of the blends, specifically to solve winding issues of the blown film and unfolding of the layflat. In this study three formulations containing PLA and different ratios of P(3HB)(4HB), specifically 10–20–30% were extruded. The mechanical, thermal and surface characterization of the films was performed. The tensile and the tear strength test results show that P(3HB)(4HB) increased the ductility of PLA based films. Increasing amounts of P(3HB)(4HB) provide a toughening effect on PLA/P(3HB)(4HB) blown films without altering transparency of PLA. Moreover, the processing additives proved to be efficient in improving film blowing stability and avoiding tackiness during the winding phase of the film.
Theoretical study of CHYMO32 peptide obtained by in silico fragmentation of the escapin protein isolated from marine hare Aplysia californica: A prediction for antimicrobial activity
Authors: Cardoso Macley Silva , Boeira Jane Marlei
Published: August 2023

The scenario involving the alarming growth of bacterial resistance has never been more worrying. Increasingly selective and sophisticated bacterial strains resistant to traditional antibiotics are a threat to the health system worldwide. Therefore, antimicrobial peptides (AMPs) represent a promising path in the fight against multidrug‐resistant pathogens. Here, using an in silico methodology, employing robust software, the present study aims to analyze the chymo32 peptide, obtained by enzymatic fragmentation of the escapin protein to test its possible antibacterial effects, correlating them with their physical–chemical nature. In this study, we used in silico predictions such as structural prediction, physicochemical properties, hemolytic activity, and prediction of activity for immunomodulation. Among the 378 peptide fragments obtained from the original protein, chymo32 was the only peptide selected in the field of screenings involving sequence length, cationicity, hydrophobicity, and prediction of antibacterial activity. The physical–chemical properties of chymo32 are promising, as well as its prediction as AMP. The immunomodulation predictions showed no immunogenic potential, which indicates greater safety in the posterior steps in vitro, also highlighting the absence of hemolytic activity, one of the main problems associated with AMPs in the therapeutic clinic.
High flow nasal cannula use is associated with increased hospital length of stay for pediatric asthma
Authors: Rogerson Colin , Owora Arthur , He Tian , Carroll Aaron , Schleyer Titus , AbuSultaneh Samer , Tu Wanzhu , Mendonca Eneida
Published: August 2023

Background

High flow nasal cannula (HFNC) is a respiratory device increasingly used to treat asthma. Recent mechanistic studies have shown that nebulized medications may have reduced delivery with HFNC, which may impair asthma treatment. This study evaluated the association between HFNC use for pediatric asthma and hospital length of stay (LOS).

Methods

This was a retrospective matched cohort study. Cases included patients aged 2–18 years hospitalized between January 2010 and December 2021 with asthma and received HFNC treatment. Controls were selected using logistic regression propensity score matching based on demographics, vital signs, medications, imaging, and social and environmental determinants of health. The primary outcome was hospital LOS.

Results

A total of 23,659 encounters met eligibility criteria, and of these 1766 cases included HFNC treatment with a suitable matched control. Cases were well‐matched in demographics, social and environmental determinants of health, and clinical characteristics including use of adjunctive asthma therapies. The median hospital LOS for study cases was significantly higher at 87 h (interquartile range [IQR]: 61–145) compared to 66 h (IQR: 43–105) in the matched controls (p < 0.01). There was no significant difference in the rate of intubation and mechanical ventilation (8.9% vs. 7.6%, p = .18); however, the use of NIV was significantly higher in the cases than the control group (21.3% vs. 6.7%, p < .01).

Conclusion

In this study of children hospitalized for asthma, HFNC use was associated with increased hospital LOS compared to matched controls. Further research using more granular data and additional relevant variables is needed to validate these findings.
Pediatric pulmonology year in review 2022: Sleep medicine
Authors: Cabrera Agustin J. , Tapia Ignacio E.
Published: August 2023

Pediatric pulmonology publishes original research, review articles, and case reports on a wide variety of pediatric respiratory disorders. In this article, we summarized the past year's publications in sleep medicine and reviewed selected literature from other journals in this field. We focused on original research articles exploring aspects of sleep‐disordered breathing in patients with underlying conditions such as asthma, neuromuscular disorders, and Down syndrome. We also explored sleep‐disordered breathing risk factors, monitoring, diagnosis, and treatment; and included recent recommendations for drug‐induced sleep endoscopy and ways to monitor and improve PAP adherence remotely.
Nonsynchronized nasal intermittent positive pressure ventilation versus continuous positive airway pressure as a primary mode of respiratory support in neonates (26−40 weeks) admitted in a tertiary care center: A randomized controlled trial
Authors: Dey Rakesh , Sardar Syamal Kumar , Kumar Saha Anindya , Mukherjee Suchandra
Published: August 2023

Introduction

Continuous positive airway pressure (CPAP) is a standard respiratory care for neonates for last few decades but it too has a high failure rate. Nasal intermittent positive pressure ventilation (NIPPV) is proven to be superior to CPAP in maintaining higher mean airway pressure in neonates with Respiratory Distress Syndrome. The main objective of this study was to compare failure within 72 h of initiation of primary respiratory support between nonsynchronized NIPPV and CPAP in all causes of respiratory distress in newborn infants. Secondarily feed intolerance, Necrotizing enterocolitis (NEC > stage II), hemodynamically significant patent ductus arteriosus, intraventricular hemorrhage (IVH > gradeIII), retinopathy of prematurity (ROP), bronchopulmonary dysplasia (BPD), duration of support and mortality were also compared.

Methods

This was a single center randomized controlled trial. Stratified randomization was done for 216 neonates, based on the gestational age in two subgroups 26−33 weeks and 34−40 weeks whopresented with respiratory distress within 5 days of birth, to receive either NIPPV or CPAP. Primary and secondary outcomes were documented.

Results

Statisticalsignificant difference was noted for primary outcome (RR 0.48 [confidence interval = 0.301−0.786], p = 0.003) but not for other secondary outcomes. NIPPV appeared superior in respect to noninvasiveventilation days, BPD occurrence and hospitalization duration.

Conclusion

As a primary mode, nonsynchronized NIPPV was more efficacious than CPAP in preventing intubation within 72 h of initiation of respiratory support. Further multicenter studies are warranted to explore the benefits of this respiratory support.
Efficacy of drip irrigation with thiamethoxam on control of Monolepta hieroglyphica, and uptake, translocation and dietary risk of thiamethoxam in maize
Authors: Yan Wenjuan , Zheng Qun , Yang Liupeng , Zhu Shiqi , Zhang Zhixiang , Xu Hanhong
Published: August 2023

BACKGROUND

Monolepta hieroglyphica (Motschulsky) is an important agricultural pest that causes significant economic losses in terms of crop production. Conventional pesticide spraying treatments can result in pesticide drift, endanger nontarget organisms and cause pests to fly away, resulting in unsatisfactory prevention and control effects. To study the effect of thiamethoxam on the control of maize M. hieroglyphica, a field experiment was conducted to determine the optimal thiamethoxam application dose, its spatial and temporal distribution dynamics, and its dietary risk based on its control effect when applied by spray and drip irrigation.

RESULTS

The results of the field trials showed that compared with spray irrigation, drip irrigation resulted in greater control starting from Day 5. This result was a consequence of the hysteresis effect of thiamethoxam being first absorbed by the roots and then continuously transferred upward, where it accumulates. After 30 days of drip irrigation with 75 and 150 g a.i. ha−1 thiamethoxam, the control effect on M. hieroglyphica was 32.41–49.44% and 69.77–80.57%, respectively. The results of the dietary risk assessment showed that the risk of thiamethoxam ingestion through maize kernels was acceptable regarding its effect on human health.

CONCLUSIONS

Drip irrigation with thiamethoxam can improve the effective utilization rate of pesticides, achieve precise control of maize M. hieroglyphica, and provide a new method for sustainable agricultural production. © 2023 Society of Chemical Industry.
Senkyunolide B exhibits broad‐spectrum antifungal activity against plant and human pathogenic fungi via inhibiting spore germination and destroying the mature biofilm
Authors: Tan Junfeng , Yang Junwei , Aobulikasimu Nuerbiye , Zhang Chen , Cao Bixuan , Lv Hang , Jiang Mingguo , Han Li , Huang Xueshi
Published: August 2023

BACKGROUND

Aspergillus infection seriously jeopardizes the health and safety of life of immunocompromised patients. The emergences of antifungal resistance highlight a demand to find new effective antifungal drugs. Angelica sinensis is a medicine–food herb and phthalides are its characteristic components. A few of the phthalides have been reported to display satisfactory antifungal activities against plant pathogenic fungi. However, the structure–activity relationships and antifungal action mechanism of phthalides remain to be further explored and elucidated.

RESULTS

The antifungal activities of five natural phthalides and four artificial analogs were investigated, and their structure–activity relationships were preliminarily elucidated in the current study. The benzene ring moiety played an essential role in their antifungal activities; the oxygen‐containing substituents on the benzene ring obviously impacted their activities, the free hydroxyl was favorable to the activity. Typical phthalide senkyunolide B (SENB) exhibited broad antifungal activities against human and plant pathogenic fungi, especially, Aspergillus fumigatus. SENB affected the spore germination and hyphae growth of Aspergillus fumigatus via down‐regulating phosphatidylinositol‐PKC‐calcineurin axis and the expression of ENG genes. Moreover, SENB disturbed the oxidation–reduction process in Aspergillus fumigatus to destroy the mature biofilms. In vivo experiments indicated SENB significantly prolonged survival and decreased fungal burden in mouse model of invasive pulmonary aspergillosis.

CONCLUSIONS

Phthalides could be considered as the valuable leads for the development of antifungal drug to cure plant and human disease. © 2023 Society of Chemical Industry.
Highly‐computational hierarchical iterative identification methods for multiple‐input multiple‐output systems by using the auxiliary models
Authors: Xing Haoming , Ding Feng , Pan Feng
Published: August 2023

The identification of multiple‐input multiple‐output (MIMO) systems is an important part of designing complex control systems. This article studies an auxiliary model least squares iterative (AM‐LSI) algorithm for MIMO systems. With the expansion of the system scale and limitations of the computer resources, there is an urgent need for an identification algorithm that provides higher computational efficiency. To address this issue, this article further derives a hierarchical identification model and proposes a new auxiliary model hierarchical least squares iterative (AM‐HLSI) algorithm for MIMO systems by applying the hierarchical identification principle. Through the analysis of the computational efficiency, the AM‐HLSI algorithm has higher computational efficiency than the AM‐LSI algorithm. Additionally, the feasibility of the AM‐LSI and AM‐HLSI algorithms is validated by a simulation example.
Threshold for detecting high dimensional geometry in anisotropic random geometric graphs
Authors: Brennan Matthew , Bresler Guy , Huang Brice
Published: August 2023

In the anisotropic random geometric graph model, vertices correspond to points drawn from a high‐dimensional Gaussian distribution and two vertices are connected if their distance is smaller than a specified threshold. We study when it is possible to hypothesis test between such a graph and an Erdős‐Rényi graph with the same edge probability. If is the number of vertices and is the vector of eigenvalues, Eldan and Mikulincer, Geo. Aspects Func. Analysis: Israel seminar, 2017 shows that detection is possible when and impossible when . We show detection is impossible when , closing this gap and affirmatively resolving the conjecture of Eldan and Mikulincer, Geo. Aspects Func. Analysis: Israel seminar, 2017.
Clayton copula for survival data with dependent censoring: An application to a tuberculosis treatment adherence data
Authors: Schneider Silvana , dos Reis Rodrigo Citton P. , Gottselig Maicon M. F. , Fisch Patrícia , Knauth Daniela Riva , Vigo Álvaro
Published: August 2023

Ignoring the presence of dependent censoring in data analysis can lead to biased estimates, for example, not considering the effect of abandonment of the tuberculosis treatment may influence inferences about the cure probability. In order to assess the relationship between cure and abandonment outcomes, we propose a copula Bayesian approach. Therefore, the main objective of this work is to introduce a Bayesian survival regression model, capable of taking into account the dependent censoring in the adjustment. So, this proposed approach is based on Clayton's copula, to provide the relation between survival and dependent censoring times. In addition, the Weibull and the piecewise exponential marginal distributions are considered in order to fit the times. A simulation study is carried out to perform comparisons between different scenarios of dependence, different specifications of prior distributions, and comparisons with the maximum likelihood inference. Finally, we apply the proposed approach to a tuberculosis treatment adherence dataset of an HIV cohort from Alvorada‐RS, Brazil. Results show that cure and abandonment outcomes are negatively correlated, that is, as long as the chance of abandoning the treatment increases, the chance of tuberculosis cure decreases.
Silica‐Confined Ru Species Highly Dispersed on the Porous Ce‐Modified ZrO2 Matrix with Different Redox and Acidity Properties for the Catalytic Combustion of 1,2‐Dichloroethane
Authors: Zhou Wanwan , Chen Lin , Fei Zhaoyang , Liu Qing , Cui Mifen , Qiao Xu
Published: August 2023

The RuO2@CemZr1−mO2−SiO2 catalysts were synthesized by the spontaneous deposition method. Based on the XRD patterns of various RuO2@CemZr1−mO2−SiO2 catalysts, it was suggested that the Ru noble metal nanoparticles were distributed with high dispersion on the surface of Ce‐modified porous matrix of ZrO2. H2‐TPR and NH3‐TPD confirmed that all catalysts possessed superior redox ability as well as acidity, which were facilitated to the catalytic dichloroethane (DCE) oxidation. From the systematic study of texture structure, surface properties and catalytic activity, we knew that acid sites were shown to be favorable for adsorption as well as activation of DCE and improve the anti‐poisoning property of the catalyst, and the redox ability could facilitate the further oxidation of the intermediate. The optimized RuO2@Ce0.1Zr0.9O2−SiO2 catalyst exhibited superior activity (T90=275 °C at a space velocity of 15000 h−1), good stability (at 300 °C for 50 h) and outstanding tolerance towards moisture (in 5 % moisture). Our work demonstrated the important role of acidity and redox ability over these functionalized catalysts, providing guidance for the advanced catalyst design.
Preparation and Catalytic Properties of Lipase Immobilized on Epoxy‐functionalized Starch Nanoparticles
Authors: Wang Kangjing , Dong Xinyi , Li Ting , Wang Qian , Ding Zhongyang , Dong Weifu
Published: August 2023

As a natural macromolecular material, starch is an ideal carrier for enzyme immobilization because of its widely available source, easy regeneration and excellent biodegradability. However, the natural starch cannot be directly used for immobilization due to the large particle size and excessive hydrophilicity. In this paper, the epoxy groups were grafted onto esterified starch by bifunctional reagents. The grafting efficiency of epoxy groups was increased by starvation drop addition. The changes of contact angle and particle size are conducive to the adsorption of immobilized enzyme at the water oil interface in the subsequent enzyme catalytic reaction, hence improve of the lipase activity. The maximum amount of lipase mobilized on such modified starch was ∼143.7 mg/g, which was near 40 mg/g higher than that of those from direct crosslinking. The immobilized enzymes showed excellent resistance to organic solvents and good reusability. Immobilization of lipases on epoxy‐functionalized starch nanoparticles can potentially improves the possibility of enzymes industrial application.
Bimetallic CuO−ZnO Hybrid Nanocomposite Materials for Efficient Remediation of Environmental Pollutants
Authors: Rudresha K. , Zahir Hussain A. , Ravikumar C. R. , Anil Kumar M. R. , Naveen Kumar A. , Manjunatha A. S. , Nagaswarupa H. P. , Amulya Shilpa , Ananda Murthy H. C. , Mallandrich Miret Mireia , Kalam Azad Abul , Madkhali O. , Aljabri Mahmood D. , Marwani Hadi M. , Rahman Mohammed M.
Published: August 2023

Pure CuO and 2‐Dimentional CuO−ZnO nanocomposites (NCs) were effectively prepared by an ultrasound‐assisted probe sonication route for different ratios of CuO and ZnO, and the multifunctional properties were investigated by the application of the advanced methods. XRD (X‐ray diffraction) patterns revealed a crystallite size (D) range of 25 to 31 nm for pure CuO and CuO−ZnO NCs. According to calculations, the energy band gap value (Eg) for the NCs is between 2.15 and 2.48 eV. Under UV light irradiation, the photocatalytic degradation of pure CuO and CuO−ZnO NCs on Direct Green (DG) and Fast Blue (FB) dyes was assessed. 60 mg of the catalyst was added to 20 ppm solutions of DG and FB dye. The stock solution of the dyes was prepared 10, 15, 20 and 25 ppm of 250 ml dye solution. Electrochemical analysis using cyclic voltammetry revealed improved redox potential output in the electrode crafted with graphite powder in 0.1 N HCl electrolyte solution. These NCs were used because of their capacity to detect an extremely dangerous chemical like arsenic. The constructed electrode‘s lowest limit of detection was determined to be 110–3 mol/L. In general, vertical linearity was seen in all of the prepared nano‐electrodes, especially above 150 ohms with real axis for pure CuO but beyond 100 ohms for doped electrodes. Based on our study, we conclude that the CuO and ZnO NCs, containing 10 % of ZnO, were the most effective photocatalyst for DG and FB dyes and electrochemical sensor for Arsenic.
Synthesis of Pyrazole, Pyridine, and Pyrimidine Derivatives Incorporating Glucaminoid Moiety and Their Antioxidant, Antitumor Activities and Docking Study
Authors: Al‐Rooqi Munirah M. , Awad Radwa S. , Obaid Rami J. , Jassas Rabab S. , Fadda Ahmed A. , Ahmed Saleh A.
Published: August 2023

The reaction of N‐(4‐(phenyldiazenyl) phenyl) carbonohydrazonoyl dicyanide (2) with N‐methyl glucamine afforded 3‐amino‐3‐(methyl (2,3,4,5,6‐pentahydroxyhexyl)amino)‐2‐((4‐(phenyldiazenyl)phenyl)diazenyl)acrylonitrile (3). Additionally, compound 2 produced the pyrazole derivatives 4 and 6, respectively, by reactions with hydrazine hydrate and malononitrile. Moreover, when enaminonitrile 3 was treated with malononitrile, N,N‐Dimethylformamide ‐ dimethyl acetal, and thiourea, it generated the glucaminoid derivatives 9, 10, and 13, respectively. In pyridine, compound 19 was obtained when enaminonitrile 3 interacted with the carbon disulfide. While in sodium hydroxide in N,N‐Dimethylformamide, instead of pyridine, it afforded the methyl carbamodithioate 23. Finally, pyrimidinethione derivative 26 was produced when the enaminonitrile 3 and phenyl isothiocyanate interacted. All new compounds were well established by both spectral and elemental analyses. The antitumor activities were evaluated by testing their impact on the viability of four different cell lines: HepG2 (human hepatocellular liver carcinoma), WI‐38 (human lung fibroblast), VERO (African green monkey kidney epithelial), and MCF‐7 (human breast adenocarcinoma). The antitumor study showed that compound 23 has very strong antitumor activity against the HEPG‐2 cell line. The synthesized compounds were analyzed by docking studies that showed good binding scores against the diverse amino acids of the selected proteins B‐Cell Leukemia/Lymphoma‐2 (Bcl‐2). The conducted docking studies were found to be consistent with cytotoxic results.
Core‐Shell‐Structured FeNx@Graphite Carbon Nanofibers as Highly Active and Stable Electrocatalysts for Zn‐Air Batteries
Authors: Pu Yi , Guo Peiqi , Zhang Xiaoyang , Zhu Bin , Zhu Haijiang , Mei Yanan , Lin Xiaoyu , Wan Xinming , Tang Hui
Published: August 2023

The exploitation of high‐performance, durable, and low‐cost oxygen reduction reaction (ORR) electrocatalysts is crucial for energy storage and convert devices. Herein, a core‐shell structured catalyst (FeNx@graphite carbon) is developed by coaxial electrospinning. The resulting nanofibers combines the distinguished activity of FeNx and the good conductivity and stability of graphite carbon. This unique core‐shell structure with potential synergistic interaction leads to high activity and outstanding stability. As an excellent cathode catalyst for the Zn‐air battery, FeNx@graphite carbon displays an outstanding open‐circuit voltage (1.592 V), a high peak power density (100 mW cm−2) and stable rechargeability (30 h), outperforming that of Pt/C assembled Zn‐air battery. Our work provides a guide to rational design for achieving both high ORR activity and good stability.
Preparation of Double‐Layer Hollow Porous Carbon Microspheres by a Hydrothermal Method
Authors: He Shuiqing , Yuan Hong , Yang Xiang
Published: August 2023

Double‐layer hollow porous carbon microspheres (DPCMs) with high specific surface area (up to 57.3 m2/g) were synthesized by a hydrothermal method using sucrose as the carbon source, SnCl4 ⋅ 5H2O as the porogen, and sodium dodecyl sulfate and sodium polyacrylate as the anionic surfactant and dispersant, respectively. The thickness and morphology of the inner and outer layers of the DPCMs (spherical, bowl‐like, mushroom‐like, or ellipsoidal) could be adjusted by changing the hydrothermal conditions. X‐ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS) and Fourier transform infrared analysis (FTIR) showed that the surface of the DPCMs was rich in −OH and −COOH functional groups, which was beneficial for subsequent chemical modification of the DPCMs. Because the prepared DPCM had a reactive surface layer and a stable carbonaceous double‐layer structure, the material could be used in supercapacitors and biochemistry, and as catalyst carriers, adsorption materials, and electrode materials, among other applications.
A “Win–Win” Strategy to Modify Co/C Foam with Carbon Microspheres for Enhanced Dielectric Loss and Microwave Absorption Characteristics
Authors: Wang Fengyuan , Liu Yonglei , Feng Rida , Wang Xuan , Han Xijiang , Du Yunchen
Published: August 2023

3D carbon foams have demonstrated their superiority in the field of microwave absorption recently, but the preparation processes of traditional graphene foams are complicated, while some novel carbon foams usually suffer from inadequate dielectric property. Herein, a simple “win–win” strategy is demonstrated to synchronously realize the construction of 3D Co/C foam and its surface decoration with carbon microspheres. Therein, the host Co/C foams and guest carbon microspheres interact with each other, resulting in the improvement of the dispersity of carbon microspheres and Co nanoparticles. The bilaterally synergistic effect can effectively enhance the interfacial polarization and conductive loss of these obtained samples. Electromagnetic analysis reveals that the optimized sample with moderate carbon microsphere content (about 33.5 wt%) displays a widened maximum effective absorption bandwidth of 5.2 GHz and a consolidated reflection loss intensity of −67.6 dB. Besides, the microwave absorption enhancement mechanisms are investigated and discussed in detail. It is believed that this work provides valuable ideas for the development of 3D‐foam‐based microwave absorbing materials for practical applications.
Hydrogel Electrolyte Enabled High‐Performance Flexible Aqueous Zinc Ion Energy Storage Systems toward Wearable Electronics
Authors: Weng Gao , Yang Xianzhong , Wang Zhiqi , Xu Yan , Liu Ruiyuan
Published: August 2023

To cater to the swift advance of flexible wearable electronics, there is growing demand for flexible energy storage system (ESS). Aqueous zinc ion energy storage systems (AZIESSs), characterizing safety and low cost, are competitive candidates for flexible energy storage. Hydrogels, as quasi‐solid substances, are the appropriate and burgeoning electrolytes that enable high‐performance flexible AZIESSs. However, challenges still remain in designing suitable and comprehensive hydrogel electrolyte, which provides flexible AZIESSs with high reversibility and versatility. Hence, the application of hydrogel electrolyte‐based AZIESSs in wearable electronics is restricted. A thorough review is required for hydrogel electrolyte design to pave the way for high‐performance flexible AZIESSs. This review delves into the engineering of desirable hydrogel electrolytes for flexible AZIESSs from the perspective of electrolyte designers. Detailed descriptions of hydrogel electrolytes in basic characteristics, Zn anode, and cathode stabilization effects as well as their functional properties are provided. Moreover, the application of hydrogel electrolyte‐based flexible AZIESSs in wearable electronics is discussed, expecting to accelerate their strides toward lives. Finally, the corresponding challenges and future development trends are also presented, with the hope of inspiring readers.
Topological Regulating Bismuth Nano‐Semiconductor for Immunogenic Cell Death‐Mediated Sonocatalytic Hyperthermia Therapy
Authors: Chen Guobo , Yang Zhijin , Du Jun , He Zongyan , Zhang Yule , Zheng Kejie , Cai Shuqi , Chen Mengya , Li Yuhao , Zheng Lulu , Miao Yuqing , Zhang Dawei
Published: August 2023

Immunogenic cell death (ICD) can activate the body's immune system via dead cell antigens to achieve immunotherapy. Currently, small molecule drugs have been used for ICD treatment in clinical, however, how to precisely control the induced ICD while treating tumors is of great significance for improving therapeutic efficacy. Based on this, a sono/light dual response strategy to tumor therapy and activation of ICD is proposed. A topological synthesis method is used to obtain sulfur‐doped bismuth oxide Bi2O3−xSx (BS) using BiF3 (BF) as a template through reduction and a morphology‐controllable bismuth‐based nano‐semiconductor with a narrow bandgap is constructed. Under the stimulation of ultrasound, BS can produce reactive oxygen species (ROS) through the sonocatalytic process, which cooperates with BS to consume glutathione and enhance cellular oxidative damage, further inducing ICD. Due to the introduction of sulfur in the reduction reaction, BS can achieve photothermal conversion under light, and combine with ROS to treat tumors. Further, with the assistance of ivermectin (IVM) to form composite (BSM), combined with sono/light dual strategy, ICD is promoted and DCs maturation is accelerated. The proposed ICD‐mediated hyperthermia/sonocatalytic therapy strategy will pay the way for synergetic enhancement of tumor treatment efficacy and provide a feasible idea for controllable induction of ICD.
An asymptotic threshold of sufficient randomness for causal inference
Authors: Knaeble Brian , Osting Braxton , Tshiaba Placede
Published: August 2023

For sensitivity analysis with stochastic counterfactuals, we introduce a methodology to characterize uncertainty in causal inference from natural experiments. Our sensitivity parameters are standardized measures of variation in propensity and prognosis probabilities, and one minus their geometric mean is an intuitive measure of randomness in the data generating process. Within our latent propensity‐prognosis model, we show how to compute, from contingency table data, a threshold, , of sufficient randomness for causal inference. If the actual randomness of the data generating process is greater than this threshold, then causal inference is warranted. We demonstrate our methodology with two example applications.
Impact of stone quarries on groundwater quality at Achenkovil River Basin, Southern Western Ghats, India: Investigation using WQI and GIS
Authors: Reghunadh Kumar , Antony Sibin , Arun Vijayan , Krishnakumar Appukuttanpillai , Abhirami Jalaja Satheesh , Shehna Seethi , Shaziya Shajahan , Vishnu Maya Thekkum Madathil , Krishnan Krishnan Anoop
Published: August 2023

The quality concern of groundwater owing to human activities is mounting at a shocking rate in many of the river basins in Southern India. A study was carried out in this work to determine the quality of groundwater in the Achenkovil River Basin (ARB) in the Southern Western Ghats region of Kerala, India. A total of 25 dug well water samples were collected from the vicinity of aggregate quarries during the pre and post monsoon seasons of 2020–2021. The water quality index has been applied to categorize the water quality, namely, excellent, good, poor, etc. to infer the quality of water to the people and policy makers in the concerned area. The WQI results showed that 12% of the water samples in good and 28% depict in very poor category. The Hill‐Piper Trilinear diagram reveals that the groundwater of the study area falls under Ca2+/Mg2+, and HCO3− and SO42−, Cl−, Mg2+ types. The hydro‐chemistry of the rock‐dominant water type of the quarrying area is inhibited by geogenic‐processes along with the percolation of prevailing quarry leachate and infiltration into the nearby wells. The correlation matrix has been created and analyzed to observe their significant impetus on the assessment of groundwater quality. The overall quality of groundwater systems in the quarrying area, according to the various indices, is not fit for domestic consumption without mandatory quality treatment, but is suitable for irrigation.
Identification genetic variations in some heat shock protein genes of Tali goat breed and study their structural and functional effects on relevant proteins
Authors: Rezvannejad Elham , Mousavizadeh SeyedAzim
Published: August 2023

Background

Animals of different regions have adapted to adverse environmental conditions by modifying their phenotypic and genotypic characteristics in the long run.

Objectives

In this study, the effect of genetic variations of 10 heat shock protein (HSP) genes (HSP70A4, HSP70A9, HSP40C17, HSP40C27, HSP90AA1, HSP90AB1, HSPB7, HSPB11, HSPD1 and HSPE1) on the three‐dimensional protein structure and function of proteins in Tali goat (a tropical breed) were studied and were compared with Saanen goat (as a sensitive breed).

Methods

A pooled DNA of 15 samples from blood was sequenced and mapped to the goat reference sequence. The bioinformatics analysis was used to identify nsSNPs in the Tali breed and was compared with the Saanen goat. Four online bioinformatics tools (Sorting Intolerant from Tolerant, Protein Variation Effect Analyzer, Polymorphism Phenotyping version2 and Single Nucleotide Polymorphism Database and Gene Ontology) showed three deleterious missense nsSNPs and seven natural missense SNPs in these HSPs genes of Tali goat.

Results

Out of 10 reported nsSNPs, 5 nsSNPs in HSP70A4, 1 nsSNP inHSP70A9, 2 nsSNPs in HSP40C17, 1 nsSNP in HSP40C27 and 1 nsSNP in HSPD1 were detected. ConSurf tools showed that the majority of the predicted nsSNPs occur in conserved sites. Moreover, several post‐translational modification (PTM) predictors computed the probability of post‐translation change of nsSNPs. The putative phosphorylation and glycosylation sites in HSPs proteins were substitutions rs669769139 and rs666336692 of the Tali goat breed.

Conclusion

These results on the effect of type of genetic variants on the function of HSP proteins will assist to predict the resistance to hard conditions in goat breeds. Considering that the identified SNPid rs669769139 (S248) which is located on the N‐terminal ATPase domain of HSP70A4 is a PTM site with a highly conserved score and a natural substitution on changing the stability and benign protein that can affect the functional and structural characterization of HSPs protein for adaptation to the local climate.
Collaborative Project to Improve Teaching of Cams’ Kinematic and Dynamic Analysis Using Spreadsheets
Authors: Pleguezuelos Miguel , Sánchez Miryam B. , Pedrero José I. , Castejón Miguel
Published: August 2023

In this paper, we present a learning experience for the improvement of kinematic and dynamic cam analysis teaching through the development of a collaborative project among subject students, based on the realisation of an application in Excel using its ease of use and matrix calculation capacity. For the examination of various cam types, motion programmes, and kinematic response curves, a large class of families of preconfigured curves is evaluated. Similarly, cam sizing is determined by geometric constraints such as pressure angle and radius of curvature. Students from the UNED School of Industrial Engineering perform all of the tasks described. This experience is part of a series of similar projects aimed at improving the academic performance of students involved in these activities by teaching the theory of machine elements.
Tubular Structure of an Urban Electric Vehicle with High Crashworthiness Performance
Authors: Velasco Manrique Jorge , Ingelmo Gómez Marta , Romo García Javier , López Vicente José Antonio , Cañibano Álvarez Esteban
Published: August 2023

This work summarizes the methodology and results of the design of a light and safe vehicle structure based on high-strength steel, aiming at its introduction in urban environments. The structure is made of a tubular chassis design easily scalable and modular, taking into consideration safety features from the very beginning of the design stage. The structural integrity of the vehicle from a static point of view is validated through torsional and bending stiffness simulations and experiments, as well as fatigue assessment. The crashworthiness is evaluated by applying the procedures set in regulations R137, R95 and R94, with special emphasis on vehicle occupants’ protection and on other vulnerable road users, with the objective of achieving a 4-stars EuroNCAP rating.
Experimental Study of Two-Phase Thermosyphons with a Constant Length-To-Inner Diameter Ratio for Geothermal Applications
Authors: Salinas-Moreno Matías , Melo-Arce Nelson , Cisterna Luis H. R. , Fuentealba Alexis , Condori Camilo Flores , Fuentealba Orrego Alexis Gabriel , Cisterna Luis Rodriguez
Published: August 2023

In this work, the validity of the length-to-inner diameter ratio (L/D) as a scaling tool in extra-long two-phase thermosyphons for geothermal applications has been experimentally studied. Two thermosyphons with different dimensions were studied, maintaining the L/D equal to 110. The results obtained show that the thermosyphon of smaller size and larger inner diameter operated at higher vapor temperatures (up to $$20\,^\circ {\text{C}}$$) and lower thermal resistances (up to 50%), showing that the L/D ratio is not sufficient to scale thermosyphons without losing fundamental information on the operation of these devices. A characteristic length, given by D2/L, has been proposed, which allows reducing by 30% the differences between the thermal resistance of both thermosyphons.
Design of a Condensing Heat Recovery Integrated with an Electrostatic Precipitator for Wood Heaters
Authors: Farías Oscar , Cornejo Pablo , Cuevas Cristian , Jimenez Jorge , Valín Meylí , Garcés Claudio , Gallardo Sebastian
Published: August 2023

High emission of particulate matter from fixed sources of biomass combustion and the effects on the health of the population have driven the implementation of public policies for changes in the energy matrix and a technological replacement in Chile. Due to this, a prototype of a condensing heat exchanger is developed integrating an electrostatic precipitator, seeking to enhance the positive effects of these technologies in a single and relatively compact device. The state of the art shows similar developments, but with high levels of complexity in construction, as a shell and tube heat exchanger, that is why the concept of a thermocannon was optimized to condense the moisture present in the fumes and reduce smoke emissions through an electric field. It is expected that using an electrostatic precipitator, up to 90% of particulate matter emissions will be captured, and thermal efficiencies of an additional 9%. For its design, heat transfer and thermodynamics models were used and validated through CFD modeling.
Effect of the Sierpinski Carpet on the Convective Flow on a Squared Fin Under Natural Convection
Authors: Torres-Bárcenas Aram , Vargas-Domínguez Roberto Alejandro , Debernardi-Aguirre Carlos Arturo , Solorio-Ordaz Francisco Javier , Martínez Rafael Chávez-
Published: August 2023

The present experimental work is aimed to study the convective flow generated on the surface of four squared copper fins of 10 cm per side and 0.314 cm thickness. Three of them were manufactured according to the first three iterations of the Sierpinski carpet fractal. The experiments were carried out for different input power at the base of the fins, 4.7 W, 9.0 W, and 13.7 W. Particle image velocimetry was used to measure the velocity fields and the Schlieren technique to visualize the thermal boundary layer. Results showed that higher the input power, higher the velocity of the hydrodynamic boundary layer. In addition, the thermal and the hydrodynamic boundary layers increased in thickness. On the other hand, the heat exchange area diminishes for the higher iterations of the fractal, resulting in lower velocities of the hydrodynamic boundary layer and smaller temperature gradients on the thermal boundary layer. Furthermore, the manufactured perforations disturb the convective flow.