bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Genomic evidence of SARS‐CoV‐2 reinfection in the Republic of Korea
Authors: Park Ae Kyung , Rhee Jee Eun , Kim Il‐Hwan , Kim Heui Man , Lee Hyeokjin , Kim Jeong‐Ah , Lee Chae Young , Lee Nam‐Joo , Woo SangHee , Lee Jaehee , No Jin Sun , Rhie Gi‐Eun , Wang Seong Jin , Lee Sang‐Eun , Park Young Joon , Park Gemma , Kim Jung Yeon , Gwack Jin , Yoo Cheon‐Kwon , Kim Eun‐Jin
Published: December 2021

As the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID‐19) pandemic continues, reinfection is likely to become increasingly common. However, confirming COVID‐19 reinfection is difficult because it requires whole‐genome sequencing of both infections to identify the degrees of genetic differences. Since the first reported case of reinfection of severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS‐CoV‐2) in the Republic of Korea in April 2020, four additional cases were classified as suspected reinfection cases. We performed whole‐genome sequencing of viral RNA extracted from swabs obtained at the initial infection and reinfection stages of these four suspected cases. The interval between initial infection and reinfection of all four suspected cases was more than 3 months. All four patients were young (10–29 years), and they displayed mild symptoms or were asymptomatic during the initial infection and reinfection episodes. The analysis of genome sequences combined with the epidemiological results revealed that only two of the four cases were confirmed as reinfection, and both were reinfected with the Epsilon variant. Due to the prolonged COVID‐19 pandemic, the possibility of reinfections with SARS‐CoV‐2 variants is increasing, as reported in our study. Therefore, continuous monitoring of cases is necessary.
Total antioxidant capacity as a marker of severity of COVID‐19 infection: Possible prognostic and therapeutic clinical application
Authors: Yaghoubi Neda , Youssefi Masoud , Jabbari Azad Farahzad , Farzad Faramarz , Yavari Zahra , Zahedi Avval Farnaz
Published: December 2021

The pathogenesis of SARS‐CoV‐2 infection, causative pathogen of the known COVID‐19 pandemic is not well clarified. In this regard oxidative stress is one of the topics that need to be investigated. Therefore, the present research was performed to explore the relationship between the oxidant/antioxidant system and COVID‐19 exacerbation. Sera were collected from 120 patients with COVID‐19 infection and 60 healthy volunteers as the control group. The patient group consisted of 60 cases with mild disease and 60 severely ill patients. Serum levels of total antioxidant capacity (TAC) and nitric oxide (NO) as well as serum activities of the two main antioxidant defense enzymes, superoxide dismutase (SOD) and catalase (CAT), were measured. TAC levels were considerably lower in patients compared with healthy individuals (p < 0.05) and also between patients with mild and severe diseases (p < 0.05). A rather decreasing trend was also found in NO concentration as well as SOD and CAT activity, though, the observed differences were not statistically significant (p > 0.05). These findings suggest that COVID‐19 patients may be susceptible to depleted total antioxidant capacity. Moreover, showing such variations in blood samples of infected individuals could be considered as a predictive marker of COVID‐19 severity.
Spatiotemporal evolution, pattern of diffusion, and influencing factors of the COVID‐19 epidemic in Hainan Province, China
Authors: Gao Xing , Li Gang , Wang Jiaobei , Xu Tingting
Published: December 2021

Within 1 month after the first case occurred in Hainan Province, China, the number of confirmed cases rose to 168, and there was no increase in almost 3 months. As the southernmost province and a famous tourist destination in China, its regular economic exchanges and high‐intensity population movements may affect the spread of the epidemic. It is of great theoretical and practical significance to investigate the spatiotemporal evolution, the pattern of diffusion, and factors influencing the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID‐19) epidemic in Hainan Province. Basic and geographic information of confirmed COVID‐19 cases was obtained from government websites and other official media. We examined the groups of infection and calculated the diffusion ratio to demonstrate the trend of the epidemic. Map drawing, spatial analysis, and partial least squares regression were used to express the spatiotemporal evolution, the pattern of diffusion, and factors affecting the epidemic. Furthermore, we have made recommendations on the formulation and adaptation of possible future preventive steps. Results show that the COVID‐19 epidemic in Hainan Province has substantial spatial heterogeneity but minimal distribution. The tourist city and central city have formed a dual‐core pattern for the spread of the epidemic, which could extend to other similar regions. Population density, mobility, and level of urban development have been the major factors of epidemic distribution in the study area.
Do recent meteorological drought events in central Italy result from long‐term trend or increasing variability?
Authors: Romano Emanuele , Petrangeli Anna Bruna , Salerno Franco , Guyennon Nicolas
Published: December 2021

The Mediterranean area is one of the most important “hotspot” where the effects of climate change are more evident, with an increase of extreme events such as hot waves and intense droughts. From this perspective, central Italy, which in the recent past suffered from the impact of intense negative anomalies of precipitation on water resources, shows peculiar characteristics, being its meteoclimatic regime determined by global, regional and local factors. In this context, this study aims at exploring the variability in time and space of the precipitation regime in central Italy over the period 1960–2020 analysing global factors, represented by indexes of teleconnection, and local factors such as orography and distance to the sea. Findings indicate an increase of drought events during the last 20 years, in a general pattern characterized by stationary precipitation amounts. This trend is clearer on the Tyrrhenian coast with a number of months under severe drought conditions increasing from 5% (1965–1999) to 24% (2000–2020). The strengthening of the periodic signal of precipitation is related mainly to the Atlantic Multidecadal Oscillation Index and the Western Mediterranean Oscillation Index. Considering the relationship between precipitation and teleconnection patterns over short time scales (few months), correlations are stronger with the North Atlantic Oscillation index and in general with the Atlantic patterns rather than with the Artic patterns, especially for the Adriatic side.
Trabecular volumetric bone mineral density of the occipital bone at preferred screw placement sites measured by quantitative computed tomography
Authors: Moser Manuel , Adl Amini Dominik , Okano Ichiro , Oezel Lisa , Shue Jennifer , Carrino John A. , Sama Andrew A. , Cammisa Frank P. , Girardi Federico P. , Hughes Alexander P.
Published: December 2021

This study aimed at quantifying trabecular volumetric bone mineral density (vBMD) at the external occipital protuberance (EOP) and the upper cervical spine. A retrospective review of patients who underwent non‐contrast enhanced computed tomography of the cervical spine that included the occipital bone up to the EOP between 2007 and 2020 was conducted. Measurements of trabecular vBMD were performed in the occipital midline area, with the region of interest extending 4.5 mm above and below the center of the EOP, as well as the C1 lateral masses and the C2 vertebral body using asynchronous quantitative computed tomography. Eighty‐six patients (female, 37.2%) were included for analysis. The patient population was 81.4% Caucasian with a mean ± SD age of 62.3 ± 13.1 years. Total bone thickness at the EOP was 16.7 ± 3.4 mm, with a ratio of trabecular to total bone thickness of 0.44. Trabecular vBMD (mean ± SD) was significantly higher at the EOP than at C1 and C2 (EOP = 612.3 ± 145.8 mg/cm3, C1 average = 290.3 ± 66.5 mg/cm3, C2 = 305.8 ± 78.8 mg/cm3; p < 0.001). A significant strong correlation between trabecular vBMD of C1 and C2 was observed (r = 0.744; p < 0.001), but only low correlations between the EOP and C1 (r = 0.295; p = 0.008) and C2 (r = 0.413; p < 0.001). In individuals > 65 years of age, cervical vBMD was significantly lower, but remained high at the EOP. Clinical significance: Trabecular vBMD at the EOP is significantly higher than at the upper cervical vertebrae and remains high in older populations. Together with morphological information about the occipital bone, these results might be helpful for occipitocervical fixation when deciding about uni‐ or bicortical screw placement at the EOP.
Structural and pathological changes in the enthesis are influenced by the muscle contraction type during exercise
Authors: Ozone Kaichi , Kokubun Takanori , Takahata Kei , Takahashi Haruna , Yoneno Moe , Oka Yuichiro , Minegishi Yuki , Arakawa Kohei , Kano Takuma , Murata Kenji , Kanemura Naohiko
Published: December 2021

Mechanical stress is involved in the onset of sports‐related enthesopathy. Although the amount of exercise undertaken is a recognized problem during disease onset, changes in muscle contraction type are also involved in the increase in mechanical stress during exercise. This study aimed to clarify the effects of increased mechanical stress associated with muscle contraction type and amount of exercise on enthesis. Twenty mice underwent treadmill exercise, and the muscle contraction type and overall load during exercise were adjusted by varying the angle and speed conditions. Histological analysis was used to the cross‐sectional area of the muscle; area of the enthesis fibrocartilage (FC), and expression of inflammation‐, degeneration‐, and calcification‐related factors in the FC area. In addition, the volume and structure of the bone and FC area were examined using microcomputer imaging. Molecular biological analysis was conducted to compare relative expression levels of inflammation and cytokine‐related factors in tendons. The Overuse group, which increased the amount of exercise, showed no significant differences in parameters compared to the sedentary mice (Control group). The mice subjected to slow‐speed downhill running (Misuse group) showed pathological changes compared to the Control and Overuse groups, despite the small amount of exercise. Thus, the enthesis FC area may be altered by local mechanical stress that would be increased by eccentric muscle contraction rather than by mechanical stress that increases with the overall amount of exercise. Clinical Significance: The muscle contraction type might be more involved in the onset of sports‐related enthesopathy rather than the amount of exercise.
Formation of sacha inchi oil microemulsion systems: effects of non‐ionic surfactants, short‐chain alcohols, straight‐chain esters and essential oils
Authors: Song Xiaoqiu , Wang Jinyu , Li Shuaitao , Wang Yifei
Published: December 2021

BACKGROUND

This study reports the formation of sacha inchi oil (SIO) microemulsions for food and cosmetic applications. Effects of non‐ionic surfactants, short‐chain alcohols, essential oil and straight‐chain esters on the phase behavior and formulation of U‐type microemulsion were investigated. Pseudo ternary phase diagrams were constructed to assess the influence of these factors using water titration method. Structural transitions were measured along several water dilution lines using conductivity and viscosity tools.

RESULTS

Among four different surfactants, Tween 80 solubilized the maximum oil and induced the formation of a U‐type microemulsion system. Oil solubilization was decreased in the presence of short‐chain alcohols. In addition, the system containing straight‐chain esters as the cosolvent showed a higher expansion effect in the U‐type areas than that containing essential oils. Finally, upon water dilution of three systems with SIO/ethyl acetate of 1:1, 1:2 and 1:3, microstructural transition from W/O to bicontinuous occurred at 200 g kg−1 (w/w) water content, and then to O/W structure at 650 g kg−1 (w/w) water content.

CONCLUSION

Straight‐chain esters as cosolvent is a potential strategy to extend the dilutability of SIO microemulsions. © 2021 Society of Chemical Industry.
A prognostic nomogram based on a new classification of combined micropapillary and solid components for stage IA invasive lung adenocarcinoma
Authors: Huang Wuhao , Zhang Hua , Zhang Zhiwei , Zhang Bin , Sun Xiaoyan , Huo Yansong , Feng Yingnan , Tian Pengfei , Mo Huilan , Wang Changli
Published: December 2021

Background

We aimed to develop a prognostic nomogram based on a new classification of combined micropapillary and solid components in pathological stage IA invasive lung adenocarcinoma (LUAD).

Methods

According to the total proportion of solid and micropapillary components (TPSM), the X‐tile software was applied to classify patients into the following three groups: TPSM‐low (TPSM‐L), TPSM‐middle (TPSM‐M), and TPSM‐high (TPSM‐H). The postoperative survival was compared among the three groups. The multivariate Cox regression analysis was performed to identify independent prognostic factors for survival. According to these factors, a nomogram model was developed to provide a personalized prognostic evaluation.

Results

A total of 595 patients with pathological stage IA invasive LUAD were included in our study. The 5‐year disease‐free survival and overall survival rates in patients with TPSM‐H and TPSM‐M were significantly lower than those with TPSM‐L. The multivariate Cox regression analysis revealed that the TPSM classification was an independent prognostic factor for survival. According to TPSM classification, we developed a nomogram model which had good calibration and reliable discrimination ability to evaluate survival.

Conclusions

The nomogram based on the combination of micropapillary and solid components has good prognostic value in predicting postoperative recurrence and survival of patients with pathological stage IA invasive LUAD.
Biocompatible Polyurethane Conduit Grafted with Vascular Endothelial Growth Factor‐Loaded Hydrogel Repairs the Peripheral Nerve Defect in Rats
Authors: Xu Wanlin , Zhang Zhen , Lu Hao , Wu Yifan , Liu Jia , Liu Shengwen , Yang Wenjun
Published: December 2021

Artificial nerve guidance conduits (NGCs) can be potentially used to address the problems of peripheral nerve defects. The biomaterial polyurethane (PU) has already been used to construct NGCs. However, the use of a combination of PU‐based NGCs and other bioactive cues, such as extracellular matrix proteins and growth factors, has not been reported yet. A PU conduit grafted with a vascular endothelial growth factor (VEGF)‐loaded hydrogel (abbreviated as PU/Gel/VEGF conduit) is fabricated. The leachate generated during the use of the PU/Gel/VEGF conduit could facilitate the proliferation, migration, and expression of the neural marker S100β in RSC96 cells (in vitro). The walking track and target muscle are analyzed, and it is observed that PU/Gel/VEGF conduits promote the functional recovery of the injured side. Various histological staining analyses are carried out, and the results reveal that the PU/Gel/VEGF conduit effectively improves the extent of nerve regeneration achieved. The number of blood vessels developed during the regeneration of the axons in the PU/Gel/VEGF group (attributable to the pro‐angiogenic effect of the functional NGC) is higher than the number of blood vessels developed in the PU/Gel conduit. Overall, the results indicate that PU/Gel/VEGF conduits could promote the process of peripheral nerve regeneration.
A near‐infrared trace hydrogen sulfide sensor based on CEEMDAN and PSO‐LSSVM
Authors: Li Guolin , Ma Kun , Jiao Yue , Zhang Xuena , Zhang Zecheng , Wu Yunhui , Yan Zhidan
Published: December 2021

A distribution feedback laser sensor for high precision and high sensitivity detection of the hydrogen sulfide in associated gas from oil fields is developed in this paper. Tunable diode laser absorption spectroscopy and wavelength modulation spectroscopy and were utilized for the H2S concentration detection in the oilfield. Complete ensemble empirical mode decomposition with adaptive noise (CEEMDAN) algorithm is used to remove the noise from the spectral signal. Particle swarm optimization‐least squares support vector machine (PSO‐LSSVM) model is applied for concentration prediction. The root mean square error of long‐term stability is 0.323. Allan–Werle deviation analysis shows that the theoretical limit of detection is 71 parts per billion while the optimal integration time reaches 96 s. The sensor is of great significance for real‐time detection of hydrogen sulfide concentration in associated gas in oil fields.
An indirect wireless electromagnetic measurement of flow velocity by an SRR‐based sensing method
Authors: Wei Lusong , Lin Pujing , Wu Zhouyi , Wu Yuting , Huangfu Jiangtao
Published: December 2021

This study describes an indirect wireless electromagnetic measurement of flow velocity by measuring the state of the SRR in the waveguide. When the fluid exhibits poor sensitivity to electromagnetic wave, the inclination angle between the SRR and the side wall of the waveguide becomes a direct reflection of flow velocity and affects the resonance frequency of the SRR. To be specific, different inclination angles will cause a variable stopband in the passband of the waveguide. By measuring the inclination angle‐sensitive frequency response of the SRR in the waveguide, the flow velocity can be measured indirectly. Based on this principle, an experiment using WR‐187 rectangular waveguide is produced. A new C‐type SRR is designed and placed in the waveguide with variable inclination angles. As revealed from the simulation and experimental results, when the inclination angle varies from 0° to 90°, the resonance frequency of the SRR shifts from 4.145 to 4.226 GHz. On that basis, the flow velocity at one or more places can be obtained.
A substrate integrated suspended line gain‐enhanced patch antenna with high‐order mode suppression by feeding structure design using characteristic mode analysis
Authors: Tang Bin , Ma Kaixue , Luo Yu , Yan Ningning , Eric Newton Moro , Ma Jianguo
Published: December 2021

A substrate integrated suspended line (SISL) gain‐enhanced patch antenna is proposed. Enhanced gain is obtained by a long patch. To suppress the high‐order mode in the anticipated band, a feeding structure is designed with the assistance of characteristic mode analysis. The proposed SISL antenna with the proposed feeding structure suppresses higher‐order modes, achieves good impedance matching and stable broadside gain across the operating frequency band. The antenna has the potential to satisfy wireless local area network (WLAN) application. Measured results show that the 10‐dB impedance bandwidth for the proposed antenna is 18.6% from 4.93 to 5.94 GHz with an average gain of 8.34 dBi. The measured results show great agreement with simulated results.
Harmonic vibration analysis with coherent‐nodal‐cluster two‐stage model reduction
Authors: Krysl Petr , Sivapuram Raghavendra
Published: December 2021

Linear finite element harmonic vibration analysis is an important tool when investigating structural performance. In order to construct the requested frequency response functions by sweeping through the frequencies, the full finite element model is typically reduced by a Galerkin projection, using either the solution of a free vibration problem, or with load‐dependent Ritz vectors. Here we construct an approximation of the model reduction matrix using an intermediate reduced‐model stage based on the Coherent Nodal Clusters technique. Thus we arrive at a two‐stage model‐reduction procedure. Although there is an additional approximation the reduced models are obtained at a much lower cost than the one‐stage models. In order to ameliorate the loss of accuracy involved in the additional approximation, we introduce enhancement of the reduced bases by inexpensive residual‐minimizing iterations.
Profile extrusion die design: A comparative study between elastic and inelastic fluids
Authors: Aali Mohammadreza , Carneiro Olga Sousa , Nóbrega João Miguel
Published: December 2021

Computational modeling is widely used to support the design of profile extrusion dies. However, despite the viscoelastic nature of the polymer melts, the majority of the computational approaches resort to inelastic models. With the aim of assessing the accuracy of the approach usually employed on the modeling of profile extrusion dies, this work aims at comparing the behavior of profile extrusion dies when interrelated viscoelastic (elastic) and generalized Newtonian (inelastic) constitutive models are used. For this purpose, the polymer melt employed in the study was experimentally characterized, being the data collected used to fit a nonlinear multimode viscoelastic (elastic) Giesekus constitutive model. Subsequently, the fitted model was used to generate the material shear flow curve, which was then used to fit a Bird‐Carreau (inelastic) constitutive model. The numerical studies undertaken were focused on the extrusion die of two profiles: a simple one, with a rectangular cross‐section, and a complex swimming pool cover profile. The results obtained showed that in realistic case studies, the effect of elasticity might be relevant, even when modeling just the flow in the extrusion die flow channel and, thus, should be considered when designing profile extrusion dies.
Comprehensive pain management strategy for infants with moderate to severe osteogenesis imperfecta in the perinatal period
Authors: Carroll Ricki S. , Donenfeld Perri , McGreal Cristina , Franzone Jeanne M. , Kruse Richard W. , Preedy Catherine , Costa Joanna , Dirnberger Daniel R. , Bober Michael B.
Published: December 2021

Osteogenesis imperfecta (OI) is a rare genetic heterogeneous disorder that causes increased bone fragility and recurrent fractures. For infants with OI and diffuse fractures, pain management, which is nuanced and specific for this population, is of the utmost importance to their neonatal care. Through experience at our center, we have developed a standard approach that has been successful in optimizing survival for these infants during this tenuous period. In this paper, we outline our multidisciplinary approach to pain management for infants with moderate to severe OI during the neonatal period, with emphasis on promotion of fracture healing and adequate pain control.
The efficacy and safety of azithromycin in treatment for childhood asthma: A systematic review and meta‐analysis
Authors: Pan Xiangcheng , Liu Yan , Luo Jiefeng , Li Siyu , Diao Sha , Li Hailong , Huang Liang , Jia Zhijun , Chen Lina , Cheng Guo , Liu Hanmin , Zhang Lingli
Published: December 2021

Background

Azithromycin (AZI) is increasingly used for childhood asthma despite limited and inconsistent data. We aimed to evaluate the efficacy and safety of AZI in childhood asthma.

Methods

We searched seven databases to include randomized controlled trials (RCTs) of AZI in the treatment of childhood asthma. Four reviewers independently screened the records. Risk of Bias 2 was used to assess the quality of RCTs. Risk ratios with 95% confidence interval (CI) from dichotomous outcomes, and mean difference (MD) with 95% CI from continuous outcomes were pooled.

Results

We included 19 eligible reports from 17 studies. The prevalence of exacerbations in AZI + budesonide (BUD) + β2 agonist (BA) group was lower than BUD + BA group (four [13%] vs. 19 [63%], p < 0.05) in 6– 14 years old children with chronic persistent asthma. AZI plus antiasthma drugs (AADs) could improve the posttreatment childhood asthma control test score (MD = 2.97; 95% CI, 2.39–3.54) compared to AADs alone in children with chronic persistent asthma. AZI plus AADs could improve posttreatment forced expiratory volume in 1 s of predicted value/forced vital capacity % (MD = 10.24%; 95% CI, 6.44%–14.03%) and posttreatment peak expiratory flow % of predicted value (MD = 7.00%; 95% CI, 2.53%–11.47%) compared to AADs alone in children with chronic persistent asthma. The most common adverse reactions of AZI combined with other drugs were gastrointestinal reactions.

Conclusions

AZI may be beneficial in improving some clinical symptoms and lung functions in older asthma children (over 6 years old) with persistent asthma. But it still requires further research.
Preparation and Characterization of Polyurethane/Nitrocellulose Blends as Binder for Composite Solid Propellants
Authors: Touidjine Sabri , Boulkadid Karim Moulai , Trache Djalal , Belkhiri Samir , Mezroua Abderrahmane
Published: December 2021

Polyurethane (PU) elastomers are largely used in the field of high‐energy composites such as composite solid propellants (CSPs) and high‐energy polymer‐bonded explosives (PBXs) due to their distinguished characteristics. Conventional PU binders are mostly non‐energetic materials, and consequently reduce the energy performance significantly. Nitrocellulose (NC), is an energetic polymer widely used as an ingredient in propellants, explosives, fireworks, and gas generators, may be introduced in PU‐based compositions to overcome their performance drawback. In this context, PU/NC polymer blends at different mass ratios were prepared in the present work using hydroxyl‐terminated polyester prepolymer (Desmophen® 1200) and nitrocellulose (NC) by solution blending process. The physico‐chemical structure of the prepared PU/NC polymer composites were characterized by Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR), X‐ray diffraction (XRD) and density measurements. The thermal decomposition behavior was investigated by differential scanning calorimetry (DSC). Based on the obtained DSC results, the Arrhenius parameters were computed by different isoconversional kinetic approaches, namely, iterative Kissinger‐Akahira‐Sunose (It‐KAS), iterative Flynn‐Wall‐Ozawa (It‐FWO) and Vyazovkin's nonlinear integral method coupled with compensation effect (VYA/CE). Additionally, in order to highlight the influence of the introduction of the NC to the binder composition on the performance of a composite propellant, the theoretical performances, namely, theoretical specific impulse, the adiabatic flame temperature, as well as the ideal exhaust gaseous species were determined based on NASA Lewis Code, Chemical Equilibrium with Application (CEA).
Aluminized Enhanced Blast Explosive Based on Polysiloxane Binder
Authors: Kolev Stefan K. , Tsonev Tsvetomir T.
Published: December 2021

Drastic measures are taken in order to improve the properties of enhanced blast explosives. First, a binder with high reactivity as reducing agent is selected. The binder, platinum cure silicone, generates pyrophoric decomposition products in situ during the detonation. Arising problems with curing inhibition of the polymer are solved, as nanosized SiO2 is employed as hardening catalyst carrier. Quantum calculations show specific interactions of the binder and aluminum, forming the backbone of the composition. Furthermore, particle size distribution of the main fuel, aluminum powder, is selected so the Al will have enough time to heat, ignite and burn in the atmosphere, creating the thermobaric effect. Potassium perchlorate is employed as an oxidizer, as it reacts with detonation products faster than the widely used ammonium perchlorate. The resulting enhanced blast explosive is denoted as H‐TBX. High speed camera results show similar shock wave velocity 2.5 m from 2.7 kg TNT charge (2 ms after initiation) and 3.5 m from 2.65 kg H‐TBX charge (3 ms after initiation). In the open field, the H‐TBX generates 1.83 times higher peak pressure and 2 times higher impulse than TNT. These findings are compared with data from the literature for Tritonal, PBXN‐109 and AFX‐757. H‐TBX has improved parameters over the former generations of enhanced blast explosives and is currently used in multiple weapons systems.
Small‐Scale Detonation of Industrial Urea‐Hydrogen Peroxide (UHP)
Authors: Halleux Francis , Pons Jean‐François , Wilson Ian , Van Riet Romuald , Lefebvre Michel
Published: December 2021

The adduct of Urea and Hydrogen Peroxide (UHP), also called Carbamide Peroxide, is industrially produced as a solid source of hydrogen peroxide for bleaching, disinfection, and oxidation reactions. As a chemical combination of fuel and oxidiser, UHP has explosive potential but it is unclear whether it could sustain a detonation at small scale. In the configuration we tested, we succeeded in recording self‐sustained detonation at relatively small scale under heavy confinement, measuring a maximum experimental velocity of detonation of 3860 m/s at an optimum 1.1 g/cm3 loading density. UHP can sustain a detonation, even at the 100 g scale, but this is strongly dependant on booster size, confinement material, loading density, charge length and diameter. According to our performance assessment, pure UHP exhibits the behaviour of a non‐ideal tertiary explosive. Maximum calculated detonation pressures are below 10 GPa, the order of magnitude for commercial blasting explosives. Small‐scale results are consistent with literature values from large‐scale experiments, although literature on the matter is quite limited. The proposed experimental method can be used to quantify the detonability and performance of other industrial materials that may have energetic properties, or small samples of homemade explosive compositions, avoiding time‐consuming, expensive and potentially hazardous large‐scale experiments.
Bis(2‐Methyl‐3,5‐Dinitrophenyl)diazene N‐Oxide – Characterization of 2,4,6‐Trinitrotoluene Energetic Degradation Product
Authors: Boroński Szymon , Trzciński Waldemar A. , Szala Mateusz
Published: December 2021

New optimized method for the synthesis of 2‐amino‐4,6‐dinitrotoluene (2ADNT) and bis(2‐methyl‐3,5‐dinitrophenyl)diazene N‐oxide (2AzODNT) from 2,4,6‐trinitrotoluene (TNT) was developed. 2AzODNT was fully characterized by using nuclear magnetic resonance spectroscopy (1H, 13C), infrared spectroscopy and differential thermal analysis coupled with thermogravimetry. The crystals of 2AzODNT were observed by using scanning electron microscopy (SEM). The heat of combustion and the standard enthalpy of formation for the synthesis product were determined. The detonation parameters of 2AzODNT were calculated with a thermochemical code and experimentally measured. Due to the high detonation performance, the good thermal stability and low sensitivity to mechanical stimuli, 2AzODNT is an attractive low‐sensitivity high explosive. Moreover, the synthesis of 2AzODNT from old TNT can be an effective method of TNT utilization.
Selectivity and molecular stress responses to classical and botanical acaricides in the predatory mite Phytoseiulus persimilisAthias‐Henriot (Acari: Phytoseiidae)
Authors: Bajda Sabina A , De Clercq Patrick , Van Leeuwen Thomas
Published: December 2021

BACKGROUND

Acaricide application remains an integral component of integrated pest management (IPM) for the two‐spotted spider mite Tetranychus urticae. Species and strains of phytoseiid predatory mites vary significantly in their response to acaricides. For the success of IPM, it is imperative to identify the determinants of selectivity and molecular stress responses of acaricides in predatory mites.

RESULTS

The three classical acaricides bifenazate, cyflumetofen, and fenbutatin oxide did not affect the survival and fecundity of Phytoseiulus persimilis regardless of the route of exposure. Selectivity of the orange oil and terpenoid blend‐based botanical acaricides was low via a combination of direct exposure, acaricide‐laced diet, and residual exposure but improved when limiting exposure only to diet. To gain insights into the molecular stress responses, the transcriptome of P. persimilis was assembled. Subsequent gene expression analysis of predatory mites orally exposed to fenbutatin oxide and orange oil yielded only a limited xenobiotic stress response. In contrast, P. persimilis exhibited target‐site resistance mutations, including I260M in SdhB, I1017M in CHS1, and kdr and super‐kdr in VGSC. Extending the screen using available Phytoseiidae sequences uncovered I136T, S141F in cytb, G119S in AChE, and A2083V in ACC, well‐known target‐sites of acaricides.

CONCLUSION

Selectivity of the tested botanical acaricides to P. persimilis was low but could be enhanced by restricting exposure to a single route. Differential gene expression analysis did not show a robust induced stress response after sublethal exposure. In contrast, this study uncovered target‐site mutations that may help to explain the physiological selectivity of several classical acaricides to phytoseiid predators.
Threshold Voltage Modulation Engineering Using p‐Type CuO and NiO for the AlGaN/GaN Enhancement‐Mode Fin‐MOS‐HEMTs on the Si Substrates
Authors: Zhao Yaopeng , Wang Chong , Zheng Xuefeng , Ma Xiaohua , He Yunlong , Liu Kai , Li Ang , Hao Yue
Published: December 2021

This work presents the threshold voltage modulation of the thin‐barrier Al0.45Ga0.55N/GaN Fin‐metal oxide semiconductor‐high electron mobility transistors (MOS‐HEMTs) with two types of p‐type metal oxide (CuO and NiO) and one type of HfO2 gate dielectrics. Different p‐type oxides and different fin structures can modulate the threshold voltage of the devices. The CuO and NiO Fin‐MOS‐HEMT with 60 nm fin width (W
fin) achieves the V
th value of 0.3 and 0.6 V, respectively. Compared with the conventional HEMT, the V
th of NiO Fin‐MOS‐HEMT can be positively shifted by 2.5 V, validating the stronger 2D electron gas (2DEG) depletion by the p‐type oxide and the V
th will shift forward with the decrease of W
fin. Furthermore, the theoretical calculation model of Fin‐MOS‐HEMT threshold voltage is proposed, which is in good agreement with the experimental results. The proposed model can provide important guidelines for the AlGaN/GaN Fin‐MOS‐HEMTs development.
Untargeted selected ion flow tube mass spectrometry headspace analysis: High‐throughput differentiation of virgin and recycled polyethylene pellets
Authors: Langford Vaughan S. , Perkins Mark J.
Published: December 2021

Rationale

Recycled plastics are increasingly used for packaging of fast‐moving consumer goods (FMCG). Compared with packaging made from virgin polymers, there is greater risk of taints entering products due to prior use of the polymers and incomplete cleaning. Increased quality assurance testing of polymer feedstock is required for recycled packaging. Selected ion flow tube mass spectrometry (SIFT‐MS) analysis coupled with multivariate statistical data processing can provide high‐throughput untargeted screening of recycled polymers at low cost per sample.

Methods

SIFT‐MS is a direct‐injection MS technique that provides high‐throughput automated headspace analysis of polymer samples when coupled with a syringe‐injection autosampler (12 incubated samples per hour). Full‐scan SIFT‐MS data were processed using multivariate statistical analysis (specifically, the soft independent modeling by class analogy (SIMCA) algorithm).

Results

SIFT‐MS full‐scan data were acquired for ten replicates each of ten recycled and four virgin high‐density polyethylene (HDPE) pellet products from multiple manufacturers. The samples varied approximately 20‐fold in terms of total volatile residue, while showing very high repeatability across replicates. SIFT‐MS scan data were dominated by aliphatic and monoterpene hydrocarbon residues, and – to a lesser extent – alcohols. Application of the SIMCA algorithm to the data resulted in successful classification by both individual samples and manufacturers.

Conclusions

Automated, untargeted SIFT‐MS analysis coupled with multivariate statistical data analysis has the potential to provide rapid, effective screening of recycled polymer products, which would provide increased quality assurance of recycled polymers used for FMCG.
Continuous in situ measurements of water stable isotopes in soils, tree trunk and root xylem: Field approval
Authors: Kühnhammer Kathrin , Dahlmann Adrian , Iraheta Alberto , Gerchow Malkin , Birkel Christian , Marshall John D. , Beyer Matthias
Published: December 2021

Rationale

New methods to measure stable isotopes of soil and tree water directly in the field enable us to increase the temporal resolution of obtained data and advance our knowledge on the dynamics of soil and plant water fluxes. Only few field applications exist. However, these are needed to further improve novel methods and hence exploit their full potential.

Methods

We tested the borehole equilibration method in the field and collected in situ and destructive samples of stable isotopes of soil, trunk and root xylem water over a 2.5‐month experiment in a tropical dry forest under natural abundance conditions and following labelled irrigation. Water from destructive samples was extracted using cryogenic vacuum extraction. Isotope ratios were determined with IRIS instruments using cavity ring‐down spectroscopy both in the field and in the laboratory.

Results

In general, timelines of both methods agreed well for both soil and xylem samples. Irrigation labelled with heavy hydrogen isotopes clearly impacted the isotope composition of soil water and one of the two studied tree species. Inter‐method deviations increased in consequence of labelling, which revealed their different capabilities to cover spatial and temporal heterogeneities.

Conclusions

We applied the novel borehole equilibration method in a remote field location. Our experiment reinforced the potential of this in situ method for measuring xylem water isotopes in both tree trunks and roots and confirmed the reliability of gas permeable soil probes. However, in situ xylem measurements should be further developed to reduce the uncertainty within the range of natural abundance and hence enable their full potential.
Distributed consensus tracking control for nonlinear multiagent systems with state delays and unknown control coefficients
Authors: Wang Wenting , Xiang Zhengrong
Published: December 2021

In this article, the distributed consensus tracking problem is investigated for a group of heterogeneous nonlinear multiagent systems (MASs). The dynamic of each follower is subject to multiple time‐varying state delays and unknown non‐identical control coefficients. Most existing results for MASs with unknown non‐identical control coefficients are on the condition that only the specific Nussbaum‐type function can be used. This constraint is removed by employing the enhanced Nussbaum functions. Some appropriate Lyapunov–Krasovskii functionals are constructed to compensate the delayed nonlinear functions. By applying the finite‐time command filters to backstepping technique, a novel distributed adaptive consensus tracking control law is developed, which is independent of multiple state delays. It is proved that each follower's output can track the leader. Finally, the validness of the proposed control algorithm is illustrated by two simulation examples.
Effective colonisation by a bacterial synthetic community promotes plant growth and alters soil microbial community
Authors: Liu Hongwei , Qiu Zhiguang , Ye Jun , Verma Jay Prakash , Li Jiayu , Singh Brajesh K.
Published: December 2021

Introduction

Plant‐associated microorganisms are widely explored for their use as bioinoculants in agriculture. However, the rate and ability of introduced microbes to colonise and interact with indigenous soil microbiomes are largely unknown.

Materials & Methods

In this study, we constructed a bacterial synthetic community (SynCom) using eight plant‐growth‐promoting bacteria isolated from the wheat (Triticum aestivum) rhizosphere, including three Bacillus spp., two Acinebacter spp., an Enterobacter sp., a Xanthomonas sp. and a Burkholderia sp., which all showed multiple plant growth‐promoting effects including indole‐3‐acetic acid and ammonia production and fungal pathogen suppression. We inoculated this SynCom in a soil with reduced microbial diversity, and investigated the ability of the SynCom to colonise wheat plants, and interact with soil microbes in the presence or absence of a soil‐borne pathogen Fusarium pseudograminearum (Fp).

Results

We found that SynCom significantly increased the wheat plant growth, root development and biomass production. Fp load in soil was significantly reduced and plant survival rates increased following the SynCom inoculation. Soil microbial community structure was altered by the SynCom, and noticeably, relative abundance of Pseudomonas spp. was induced in the soil.

Conclusion

This study provides novel evidence that colonisation of a beneficial SynCom promotes plant growth and alters soil microbial community.
A Brief Review on Key Role of Perovskite Oxides as Catalyst
Authors: Yadav Pinky , Yadav Sangeeta , Atri Shalu , Tomar Ravi
Published: December 2021

The research work conducted mainly on the reduction reaction of NOx, the oxidation reaction of CO, and hydrocarbons, electro‐catalysis of oxygen in alkaline medium, and photocatalytic water splitting has proved excellent catalytic behavior of perovskite oxides.[16–23] Although only a few reports published usages of the perovskite oxides as catalysts for the organic transformation such as catalytic hydrogenation, Ullmann, Sonogashira reactions, and Suzuki couplings.[24–26] Yoon et al. have prepared K2CO3 based LaMn1‐xCuxO3 perovskite oxide as a potential catalyst and discussed their mechanistic aspects in various reactions occurring at room temperature.[27] Recently, Wu and Ajayan group has demonstrated the relationship between stoichiometry and activity of pure and B‐site substituted layered perovskite oxide in the decomposition reaction of isopropanol by considering Sr2Sn1‐xRuxO4 (0≤x≤1) as catalyst.[28] In this scenario, present work aims to summarize the contribution of perovskite oxides as catalyst in numerous organic syntheses and catalysis, photocatalysis, and electrocatalysis reactions.
A Convenient Synthesis of Polysubstituted Coumarin‐pyrrolo[2,1‐a]isoquinoline‐1‐carbaldehydes from Isoquinoline, 2‐Bromoacetophenones and Coumarin‐β‐chlorovinyl Aldehydes
Authors: Alizadeh Abdolali , Rostampoor Azar
Published: December 2021

In this research, a simple and efficient strategy for the straightforward synthesis of polysubstituted coumarin‐pyrrolo[2,1‐a]isoquinoline‐1‐carbaldehydes is presented by a sequential three‐component reaction of isoquinoline, 2‐bromoacetophenones and 3‐chloro‐3‐(2‐oxo‐2H‐chromen‐3‐yl)acrylaldehydes as readily available starting materials, which includes base‐mediated 1,4‐addition or [3+2] cycloaddition/intramolecular cyclization/formation two C−C bonds/aromatization tandem reaction under air. In this method, chemoselective cascade process, easily accessible starting materials, energy conserving (short reaction times at room temperature), simplicity of product purification (the products can be purified by washing with EtOH), excellent yields (75–88 %), metal‐free catalyst, green and mild conditions in one‐pot are important highlighted advantages of this protocol.
Ultrastable Zinc Anode by Simultaneously Manipulating Solvation Sheath and Inducing Oriented Deposition with PEG Stability Promoter
Authors: Cao Ziyi , Zhu Xiaodong , Gao Shangpeng , Xu Dongxiao , Wang Zengyao , Ye Zhuolin , Wang Lipeng , Chen Bin , Li Lei , Ye Mingxin , Shen Jianfeng
Published: December 2021

Aqueous zinc‐ion batteries are a low‐cost and safe energy storage system, but suffer from detrimental side reactions and Zn dendrites due to the strong interactions between Zn2+ and water molecules in the electrolytes, and random Zn2+ deposition on the anode surface. Here, an electrolyte involving a dual‐functional additive of polyethylene glycol (PEG) to bypass these issues is reported. The electrolyte can not only tailor the solvation sheath of Zn2+ but also enable favorably oriented deposition of Zn2+ on the anode surface. The dendrite‐free Zn anode in Zn//Zn cells is obtained with high Columbic efficiency (98.8%) and long cycling lifespan (1500 h), six times longer than that of electrolyte without PEG at 0.25 mA cm−2. What is more, the excellent cycling stability of the prepared batteries (Zn//V2O5·1.6 H2O) suggests that the developed tailoring strategy may propel a promising pathway for stabilizing Zn metal anodes.
A Dual Photoelectrode Photoassisted Fe–Air Battery: The Photo‐Electrocatalysis Mechanism Accounting for the Improved Oxygen Evolution Reaction and Oxygen Reduction Reaction of Air Electrodes
Authors: Qian Bingzhi , Zhang Yu , Hou Xing , Bu Degang , Zhang Kai , Lan Yalin , Li Yuewen , Li Shuo , Ma Tianyi , Song Xi‐Ming
Published: December 2021

Effective utilization of solar energy in battery systems is a promising solution to achieve sustainable and green development. In this work, a photoassisted Fe–air battery (PFAB) with two photoelectrodes of ZnO–TiO2 heterostructure and polyterthiophene (pTTh)‐coated CuO (pTTh–CuO) grown on fluorine‐doped tin oxide (FTO) is proposed. The band structure of semiconductors and the charge‐transfer mechanism of heterostructure are studied. The electrochemical results show that the photogenerated electrons and holes play key roles in reducing the oxygen evolution reaction (OER)/oxygen reduction reaction (ORR) overpotential in the discharging and charging processes, respectively. The short‐circuit current density, the open‐circuit voltage, and the maximum power output of the PFAB can reach 34.28 mA cm−2, 1.15 V, and 5.69 mW cm−2 upon illumination, respectively. The photoassisted Fe–air battery exhibits a low charge voltage of 0.64 V for ZnO–TiO2 as photoelectrode and a discharge voltage of 1.38 V for pTTh–CuO as a photoelectrode at 0.1 mA cm−2.
Bone Tumor Suppression in Rabbits by Hyperthermia below the Clinical Safety Limit Using Aligned Magnetic Bone Cement
Authors: Yu Xiang , Gao Shan , Wu Di'an , Li Zhengrui , Mi Yan , Yang Tianyu , Sun Fan , Wang Lichen , Liu Ruoshui , He Shuli , Ge Qinggang , Lv Yang , Xu Andy (Yuanguang) , Zeng Hao
Published: December 2021

Demonstrating highly efficient alternating current (AC) magnetic field heating of nanoparticles in physiological environments under clinically safe field parameters has remained a great challenge, hindering clinical applications of magnetic hyperthermia. In this work, exceptionally high loss power of magnetic bone cement under the clinical safety limit of AC field parameters, incorporating direct current field‐aligned soft magnetic Zn0.3Fe2.7O4 nanoparticles with low concentration, is reported. Under an AC field of 4 kA m−1 at 430 kHz, the aligned bone cement with 0.2 wt% nanoparticles achieves a temperature increase of 30 °C in 180 s. This amounts to a specific loss power value of 327 W and an intrinsic loss power of 47 nHm2 kg−1, which is enhanced by 50‐fold compared to randomly oriented samples. The high‐performance magnetic bone cement allows for the demonstration of effective hyperthermia suppression of tumor growth in the bone marrow cavity of New Zealand White Rabbits subjected to rapid cooling due to blood circulation, and significant enhancement of survival rate.
High‐Sensitivity Infrared Photoelectric Detection Based on WS2/Si Structure Tuned by Ferroelectrics
Authors: Zheng Diyuan , Dong Xinyuan , Lu Jing , Niu Yiru , Wang Hui
Published: December 2021

As one of the typical transition‐metal dichalcogenides with distinct optical and electrical properties, WS2 exhibits tremendous potential for optoelectronic devices. However, its inherent band gap range limits the application in the infrared region. To overcome this draw‐back and improve the sensitivity, P(VDF‐CTFE) is used as a ferroelectric gate to control the states of WS2/Si junctions and achieve an enhanced infrared photodetection. The polarization electric field not only broadens the range of absorption wavelength (405–1550 nm) but also greatly promotes the sensitivity of lateral photovoltaic effect (LPE) (from 198.6 to 503.2 mV mm−1). This phenomenon is attributed to the reduction of WS2 band gap and the change of potential barrier at the interface of the junction. Meanwhile, the response speed is improved significantly due to the increase of carrier initial kinetic energy. This new scheme for ferroelectric tuned LPE opens up a way to realize high‐sensitivity, ultrafast, and stable infrared photodetection.