bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Essential commutants and characterizations of the Toeplitz algebra
Authors:   Department of Mathematics and Statistics, University of Reading, Whiteknights Campus, Reading Rg6 6AX, U.K., Hagger Raffael
Published: September 2022

We study the Toeplitz algebra which is generated by Toeplitz operators with bounded symbols on the Fock space Fpα. We show that the Toeplitz algebra coincides with each of the algebras generated by band-dominated, sufficiently localized and weakly localized operators, respectively. Moreover, we determine its essential commutant and its essential bicommutant. For p=2 these results were obtained recently by Xia. However, Xia's ideas are mostly connected to Hilbert space theory and methods which are not applicable for p≠2. Instead, we use a recent result of Fulsche to generalize Xia's theorems.
Commuting squares and planar subalgebras
Authors:   Chennai Mathematical Institute, Chennai, India, Bakshi Keshab Chandra , Kodiyalam Vijay ,   The Institute of Mathematical Sciences, Chennai, India and Homi Bhabha National Institute, Mumbai, India
Published: September 2022

We show a close relationship between non-degenerate smooth commuting squares of II1-factors with horizontal inclusions of finite index and inclusions of subfactor planar algebras by showing that each leads to a construction of the other. One direction of this uses the Guionnet--Jones--Shlyakhtenko construction.
Wold decompositions for representations of C∗-algebras associated with noncommutative varieties
Authors:   Department of Mathematics, The University of Texas at San Antonio, San Antonio, TX 78249, U.S.A., Popescu Gelu
Published: September 2022

Given a set Q of polynomials in noncommutative indeterminates Z1,…,Zn and a regular domain Dmp(H)⊂B(H)n, m,n∈N, associated with a positive regular polynomial p∈C⟨Z1,…,Zn⟩, we consider the variety VQ(H):={X=(X1,…,Xn)∈Dmp(H):g(X)=0 for all g∈Q}. Each variety VQ(H) admits a {\it universal model} B=(B1,…,Bn). The main goal of the paper is to study the structure of the ∗-representations of the C∗-algebra C∗(VQ) generated by B1,…,Bn and the identity.
Beurling type invariant subspaces of composition operators
Authors:   Indian Statistical Institute, Statistics and Mathematics Unit, 8th Mile, Mysore Road, Bangalore, 560059, India, Bose Snehasish , Muthukumar P. ,   Indian Statistical Institute, Statistics and Mathematics Unit, 8th Mile, Mysore Road, Bangalore, 560059, India, Sarkar Jaydeb ,   Indian Statistical Institute, Statistics and Mathematics Unit, 8th Mile, Mysore Road, Bangalore, 560059, India
Published: September 2022

The aim of this paper is to answer the following question concerning invariant subspaces of composition operators: characterize φ, holomorphic self maps of D, and inner functions θ∈H∞(D) such that the Beurling type invariant subspace θH2 is an invariant subspace for Cφ. We prove the following result: Cφ(θH2)⊆θH2 if and only if θ∘φθ∈S(D). This classification also allows us to recover or improve some known results on Beurling type invariant subspaces of composition operators.
Rigidity results for automorphisms of Hardy--Toeplitz C∗-algebras
Authors:   Department of Mathematics, University at Buffalo, Buffalo, NY 14260-2900, U.S.A., Chirvasitu Alexandru
Published: September 2022

We prove a number of results on the automorphisms and isomorphisms between Hardy--Toeplitz algebras T(D) associated to bounded symmetric domains D: that the stable isomorphism class of T(D) determines D (even when it is reducible), that for reducible domains D=D1×⋯×Ds the automorphisms of the Shilov boundary ˇS(D) induced by those of T(D) permute the Shilov boundaries ˇS(Di), and that by contrast to arbitrary solvable algebras, automorphisms of T(D) that are trivial on their character spaces ˇS(D) are trivial on the entire spectrum ˆT(D).
Lp-isometries of Grassmann spaces in\\ factors of type II
Authors:   School of Mathematics and Statistics, Shaanxi Normal University, Xi'an, 710062, China, Shi Weijuan , Shen Junhao ,   Department of Mathematics and Statistics, University of New Hampshire, Durham, 03824, U.S.A., Gu Weichen ,   School of Mathematical Sciences, University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, 100049, China, Ma Minghui ,   School of Mathematical Sciences, University of Chinese Academy of Sciences, Beijing, 100049, China
Published: September 2022

Let M be a factor of type II with a faithful normal semifinite tracial weight τ, and P the set of all projections in M. Denote by Pc the Grassmann space of all projections in P with trace c, where c is a positive real number. The aim of this paper is to describe the general form of Lp-isometries between Grassmann spaces in a factor of type II. Moreover, we prove that, when $0
Note on the Kato property of sectorial forms
Authors:   Institut fuer Analysis, Fakultaet Mathematik, Technische Universitaet Dresden, 01062 Dresden, Germany, Chill Ralph , Krol Sebastian ,   Faculty of Mathematics and Computer Science, Adam Mickiewicz University Poznan, ul. Uniwersytetu Poznanskiego 4, 61-614 Poznan, Poland
Published: September 2022

We characterise the Kato property of a sectorial form a, defined on a Hilbert space V, with respect to a larger Hilbert space H in terms of two bounded, selfadjoint operators T and Q determined by the imaginary part of a and the embedding of V into H, respectively. As a consequence, we show that if a bounded selfadjoint operator T on a Hilbert space V is in the Schatten class Sp(V) (p⩾1), then the associated form aT(⋅,⋅):=⟨(I+iT)⋅,⋅⟩V has the Kato property with respect to every Hilbert space H into which V is densely and continuously embedded. This result is in a sense sharp. Another result says that if T and Q commute then the form a with respect to H possesses the Kato property.
Social Media Used by the Farmers in Sharing Farm Information
Authors: Meena Vikash , Meena K. C. , Goyal M. C. , Meena L. K. , Kumar Rajesh
Published: September 2022

Social media has emerged as a highly powerful tool in facilitating online social interactions and has shown tremendous potential in facilitating information exchange among individuals. It has been extensively used by farmers to tremendous increase in the number of smart-phones users during the last decade. A study was conducted during 2021-22 to find out the different social media being utilized by the farmers. A total of 140 progressive farmers who are using social media were randomly selected from purposively selected blocks of the Kota division of Rajasthan. Results of the study revealed that WhatsApp, YouTube, and Facebook were the most popular social media tools which are being used by farmers for sharing farm information. Keeping in touch with extension workers/ scientists, sharing or capturing information, and socializing with relatives /contact were major purposes for the farming community on social media sites. It can be concluded that social media would deliberately remain as a booster or supporter or enhancer to the farming community.
The Risk Model with a Constant Dividend Barrier Affected by a Threshold Value
Authors: Li Qiao
Published: September 2022

This paper considers a new risk model with a constant dividend barrier, which the claim amount affected by a threshold value. The hypothesis of the model is presented and the integro-differential equation for the Gerber-Shiu penalty function is given. Then the linear solution of the Gerber-Shiu discounted penalty function is figured out. The paper also derives the integro-differential equation and the linear solution of the expected discounted dividend payments. An example is given too.
Evaluation of Plantain (Musa spp.) Varieties for Growth and Yield Characters in Humid Rainforest Zone of Nigeria
Authors: Harry Gamaliel I. , Ulasi Joseph I.
Published: September 2022

A field experiment was conducted to evaluate the growth and yield characteristics of plantain varieties in the humid rain forest zone of Nigeria. The research was conducted at the University of Uyo Teaching and Research Farm in Uyo, Akwa Ibom State, Nigeria. The objective of this study was to evaluate the performance of various plantain varieties with a view to identify high yielding genotypes. The planting material used for this study were the following varieties - 4479-1, 7152-2, Agbagba, Akpakpak, Mbiegome and a local cultivar called “Ogoni Red” obtained from the iInternational iInstitute of Tropical Agriculture (IITA), Onne, River State. Data collected on shoot and bunch yields characters were statistically assessed by analysis of variance. The growth characters showed significant variations among the plantain varieties. Plant height at 32 weeks after planting showed that variety 4479-1 recorded the highest height, 4.09 m while Agbagba and Mbiegome had heights 3.21 m and 3.07 m, respectively. The bunch characteristics measured after harvesting were statistically significant differences (P < 0.05) among the varieties. The bunch weight differed significantly (P < 0.05) amongst the varieties. The result showed that the yield (bunch weight) for Mbiegome was 10.55 kg, followed by 4479-1 with 10.28 kg., while 7152-2, Ogoni red and Agbagba varieties recorded 07.68 kg, 04.11 kg and 09.5 kg, respectively. In this study, variety Mbiegome outperformed other varieties in terms of yield and yield components apart from the finger thickness and length and is therefore recommended to promotion in Akwa Ibom State.
Physico-chemical Characterization and Estimation of Antimicrobial Activity of Modified Aspirin in the form of Nano-organometallic Compounds
Authors: El-Tabl Abdou S. , El-Wahed Moshira M. Abd , Ahmed Reham Ali S. , Alhalib Abdullah Abdulsalam Abdullah , Ashour Ahmed M.
Published: September 2022

Aspirin is one of the most commonly used drugs. It is necessary to find and develop analgesic anti- inflammatory drugs that are safe against their adverse effects. From this standpoint, new nano- organometallic Cu(II), Mn(II), Ni(II), Cd(II) and Zn(II) compounds of modified aspirin were prepared and characterized using elemental and spectroscopic techniques such as infrared and ultraviolet, proton nuclear magnetic resonance, mass spectroscopy, electron spin resonance and electron microscope, as well as magnetism, conductivity and thermal analysis. Thermal and spectral results showed the octahedral geometry and stability of these compounds up to 45oC. The data indicated that, using low concentration against microbes, aspirin and ligand no effect was observed, however, the complexes showed moderate to high effect, The order for Gram positive is Cd(II) complex (10)> Cd(II) complex (11)> ampicillin> Zn(II) complex (8)> Cu(II) complex (4)> Cu(II) complex (6)= Ni(II) complex (12)> Cu(II) complex (2) = Cu(II) complex (3)> ligand (1)> aspirin> Mn(II)complex(14) and for Gram negative is ampicillin> Cd(II) complex (10)> Cd(II) complex (11)> Cu(II) complex (2) > Cu(II) complex (6)> Cu(II) complex (3)> Cu(II) complex (4) > Zn(II) complex (8)> aspirin> Ni(II) complex (12) > ligand (1)> Mn(II) complex (14) and for Aspergillus flavus is Cd(II) complex (10)>amphotericin B> Cd(II) complex (11)> ligand (1)= aspirin= Cu(II) complex (2)= Cu(II) complex (3)= Cu(II) complex (4)= Cu(II) complex (6) = Zn(II) complex (8)= Ni(II) complex (12)= Mn(II) complex (14) and for Candida albicans is Cd(II) complex (10)> Cd(II) complex (11)> amphotericin B > Ni(II) complex (12)> Cu(II) complex (3)= Cu(II) complex (6)> Cu(II) complex (2)= Cu(II) complex (4)> ligand(1) = aspirin= Zn(II) complex (8)= Mn(II) complex (14). The order of the catalytic effect of the tested complexes on decomposition of H2O2 was Mn(II) complex (14)> Ni(II) complex (12) > Cu(II) complex (4) > Cu(II) complex (6)> Cu(II) complex (2) respectively.
In-silico Analysis and Functional Characterization of Rhizoctonia solani Effector Proteins
Authors: Raj Kumar K. Prudhvi , Vignesh P. , Shanthinie A. , Varanavasiappan S. , Sudhakar D. , Raghu R. , Jayakanthan M. , Kokiladevi E.
Published: September 2022

Sheath blight is considered the second most prevalent disease in rice with no proper resistance genes identified for its resistance. Out of the 14 anastomosis groups in R. solani (AG1 to AG13 and AGBI), the AG1 group is mostly responsible for the infection in the rice. There are many effector proteins under this group, function as transcription factors. Many bioinformatics tools are available to determine the interaction between the promoter region and effector proteins. But in an attempt to use these effector proteins for molecular docking and simulation studies, criteria like In-silico analysis and validation of the proteins are to be analyzed. The reactivity and stability of these proteins were evaluated physicochemically, domain prediction, and secondary structure prediction using bioinformatics methods such as Protparam, Pfam, and SOPMA, respectively. These bioinformatics techniques were found to be remarkably suitable for characterizing the protein's function. Robetta an abinitio approach was used to predict the 3D structure, and the models were validated using the SAVESv6.0 (PROCHECK) server. The effector protein functional analysis and 3D structure predictions made using empirical data can shed light on the interaction studies for locating effector binding elements in the promoter regions of host genes.
Efficacy of Chemical Insecticides and Neem Products against Mustard Aphid, [Lipaphis erysimi (Kalt.)] on Mustard Brassica juncea (L.)
Authors: Saiteja Kakarla , Tayde Anoorag R.
Published: September 2022

A field trial was conducted at Central Research Field, SHUATS, Naini, Prayagraj during rabi 2021 in Randomized Block Design (RBD). Seven treatments were evaluated against Lipaphis erysimi i.e., Imidacloprid 17.8% SL @ 0.5ml/lit, Thiomethoxam 25%WG @ 4 gm/lit, Neem oil 5ml/lit, Indoxacarb 14.5%SC@ 0.65 ml/lit, Emamectin Benzoate 5% SG, Neem seed kernel extract (NSKE) 5% @ 5 gm/lit, Spinosad 45% SC. Results revealed that, among the different treatments Imidacloprid (41.61) proved to be the most effective treatment followed by Thiomethoxam (45.49), Emamectin benzoate (51.78), Indoxacarb (62.67), Spinosad (69.98) and Neem seed kernel extract (NSKE) (72.97), whereas Neem oil (78.99) was found to be least effective against this pest. The plot treated with Imidacloprid 17.8% SL show highest yield (1:5.98) followed by Thiomethoxam 25%WG (1:5.37), Emamectin Benzoate 5% SG @ (1:5.25), Indoxacarb 14.5%SC (1:4.71), Spinosad 45% SC (1:4.45) and Neem seed kernel extract (NSKE) 5% (1:3.71), Neem oil (1:3.77) as compared to control plot (1:2.8).
Evaluate the Effect of Zinc and Iron on Growth, Yield and Quality of Chickpea
Authors: Kumar Tarun , Thomas Tarence , Swaroop Narendra
Published: September 2022

The research was lead at the Soil Science Research Farm, Sam Higginbottom University of Agriculture, Technology and Sciences, Prayagraj, U.P. during the Rabi season in 2020-21 and 2021-22. The experiment was laid out in Randomized Block Design with sixteen treatments and three replications with four levels of zinc and iron respectively with NPK as an RDF. All plant parameters i. e. plant height, number of branches plant-1, number of pods plant-1, number of seeds pod-1, test weight, protein, grain yield and stover yield were found to be significant at C.D @ 5% and best in treatment T16 (RDF @ 100% + Zinc @ 20 kg ha-1 + Iron @ 7.5 kg ha-1) as compare with in treatment T1 [Absolute control (RDF @ 0% + Zinc @ 0 kg ha-1 + Iron @ 0 kg ha-1)].
Prevalence and Predictors of Anemia among Drug Resistant Tuberculosis Patients in King Abdulaziz University Hospital, Jeddah
Authors: Mehrin Sumyia , Albishi Wallaa Khalid
Published: September 2022

Introduction: Among multiple hematological changes, anemia is one of the most common hematological problems in patients with tuberculosis (TB). [1] Many studies were conducted in different countries and reported various results [1-2].

Methods: A retrospective cohort study was conducted on all TB-positive cases reported to the King Abdulaziz University Hospital (KAUH) between January 2012 and January 2021. Detailed demographic and biomedical data were collected from the hospital record section. All culture-confirmed and PCR-positive tuberculosis (TB) cases were included in this study. Categorical baseline characteristics of TB patient has been compared with the anemic status by Fisher's exact and Pearson’s chi-square test. Continuous variables like hematological parameters compared with anemia by t-test. The univariate and multivariate logistic regression analyses were done to estimate the association between TB positive cases and the anemic status of the patient.

Results: Out of 695 TB-positive cases, 443 (63.74%) are anemic. Among these anemic patients, most are less than 39 years old; 228 (51.47%), clearly males outnumbered the number females. Approximately 289 (65.24%) are non-Saudi. A majority of the patient, 163 (54.40%), had a BMI range of 18.5 – 24.9. A significant difference had been noticed in the anemic and non-anemic patients in variables like gender, BMI, nationality, and site of TB. In the case of anti-TB drug-resistant cases, the percentages of mild, moderate, and severe anemia are 12.21%, 12.20%, and 13.64%. This study did not find any significant association between DR-TB and anemia.

Conclusion: The prevalence of anemia among TB patients was high. Thus, it warrants frequent screening for anemia in all TB-positive cases to improve mortality and morbidity in these patients.
Approaches to Strengthening Ideals and Beliefs Education of China’s College Young Teachers
Authors: Zhou Jianxin , Wang Yujing , Chen Xi
Published: September 2022

At present, quite a number of China’s college young teachers have weakened or lost their ideals and beliefs, degenerated professional ethics, and problems concerning with education quality and academic integrity have occurred from time to time. Therefore, it is necessary to strengthen the ideals and beliefs education of college young teachers. However, previous researches on the ideals and beliefs education of college young teachers and its countermeasures mainly focused on one or several colleges and universities, and failed to put forward suggestions for improvement applicable to colleges and universities across the country. Based on inductive analysis of previous researches in the past 30 years, combined with experiences of the author of this paper, it is found that the root causes of the current problems of the ideals and beliefs education of college young teachers mainly come from three aspects: society, young teacher and higher education institution, hence three approaches for strengthening the ideals and beliefs education of China’s college young teachers are proposed. First of all, it is necessary to vigorously promote college young teachers to participate in social practice, to facilitate their objective understanding of social reality and establishing proper ideals and beliefs; secondly, take advantage of Internet technology and adopt a variety of online and offline effective methods to carry out ideological education for young teachers to enhance their identification of the ideals and beliefs advocated; and thirdly, colleges and universities need to improve their evaluation system, adopt an assessment model with equal emphasis on teaching and scientific research and ideals and beliefs, so as to guide young teachers to attach importance to the improvement of their own ideals and beliefs. Colleges and universities also need to combine ideals and beliefs education with solving young teachers’ practical problems in order to enhance the persuasive power of ideals and beliefs education and thus improve the effect of ideals and beliefs education. This paper points out the three root causes of the problem, and proposes three approaches from a macro perspective, hoping that it may inspire the ideals and beliefs education work of young teachers in Chinese colleges and universities.
Using a Smartphone 3-Dimensional Surface Imaging Technique to Manufacture Custom 3-Dimensional–Printed Eyeglasses
Authors: de Alba Campomanes Alejandra G. , Meer Elana , Clarke Matthew , Brodie Frank L.
Published: September 2022

Importance

Finding a suitable fit in glasses for pediatric patients with congenital and acquired craniofacial abnormalities is difficult; consequently, these children are at high risk of vision loss secondary to refractive amblyopia as they often have poor adherence to daily glasses wearing. Custom 3-dimensional (3D)–printed glasses may have an improved design and fit, but access is limited by the availability of computed tomography and magnetic resonance imaging (MRI).

Objective

To describe a method for using a commercially available smartphone 3D surface imaging (3DSI) technique to capture facial anatomy as a basis for custom glasses design.

Design, Setting, and Participants

This quality improvement study analyzes data from a case series in a primary academic center with multiple referral centers throughout the United States. The evaluation included reported fit descriptions from patients with poor glasses adherence due to craniofacial abnormalities.

Main Outcomes and Measures

Key anatomic parameters for glasses fit (face width, distance from ear bridge to nasal bridge, distance from center of pupil to center of nasal bridge, distance from lateral to medial canthus, ear vertical offset, and nasal bridge width) were compared between scans. A 3DSI scan was considered successful if these key parameters could be determined and the difference in measurements was less than 5% between MRI and 3DSI. A second outcome measure included the fit of glasses designed by the 3DSI method as reported by the patient, parent, or guardian.

Results

Measurements of key parameters for glasses fit were similar across MRI and 3DSI scans with a mean (SD) difference of 1.47 (0.79) mm between parameters (range, 0.3-4.60 mm). Among 20 patients aged 1 to 17 years with craniofacial abnormalities, all achieved a successful fit (reporting daily glasses adherence without irritation) as judged by the patient, parent, or guardian. A mean of 1.7 revisions were made from initial prototype to final frame production using 3DSI technology.

Conclusions and Relevance

This study demonstrated that smartphone-enabled 3DSI coupled with widely available 3D printing technology can produce custom frames with a successful fit for patients with craniofacial anomalies. This accessible and well-tolerated imaging process may have implications for adherence with glasses wearing among patients at risk of vision loss due to amblyopia.
Structural investigations of proteins encoded by SARS‐CoV‐2
Authors: Wlodawer Alexander
Published: September 2022

It is hard to overestimate the influence of the COVID‐19 pandemic on scientific research in the last two and a half years. Within a few weeks after the first cases of the disease were reported, the causative agent, now known as SARS‐CoV‐2, was identified, its genome was sequenced, individual proteins were expressed and purified, and structural work commenced. The originally described SARS‐CoV‐2 isolate (GenBank: MN908947.3) has a positive‐sense single‐stranded (ss) RNA genome consisting of 29,903 bases. The genome encodes 29 proteins falling into structural and nonstructural categories, expressed as polyproteins that have to be cleaved into the final products by two virally encoded cysteine proteases. This “In the Limelight” special issue of FEBS Open Bio includes three review articles, focused on different aspects of the structure and other properties of selected examples of SARS‐CoV‐2 proteins: (a) the properties of the Nsp14 and Nsp15 ribonucleases; (b) the current state of knowledge of the molecular mechanisms for the translation of both viral transcripts and cellular messenger RNAs, with a focus on the properties of the Nsp1 protein; and (c) the structural properties and evolution of the spike proteins in SARS‐CoV‐2 and other coronaviruses. These three reviews describe very different aspects of work that ultimately should lead to the development of more vaccines, antibodies, and small molecule drugs, necessary to combat this pandemic, as well as to counter future variants of this coronavirus.
Novel mutations in HTRA1‐related cerebral small vessel disease and comparison with CADASIL
Authors: Zhang Chen , Zheng Honghua , Li Xin , Li Shaowu , Li Wei , Wang Ziwei , Niu Songtao , Wang Xingao , Zhang Zaiqiang
Published: September 2022

Objective

There is evidence showing both heterozygous HTRA1 and homozygous HTRA1 mutations as causal for familial cerebral small vessel disease (CSVD). The clinical and neuroimaging signs of heterozygous HTRA1‐related CSVD can mimic cerebral autosomal dominant arteriopathy with subcortical infarcts and leukoencephalopathy (CADASIL). We aimed to characterize the genotypic and phenotypic features of HTRA1‐related CSVD, and we compared the features of heterozygous HTRA1‐related CSVD and CADASIL.

Methods

We carried out genetic sequencing in a series of unrelated patients with suspected familial CSVD from China. Clinical and imaging characteristics of heterozygous HTRA1‐related CSVD and CADASIL were compared.

Results

We identified nine heterozygous HTRA1 mutations and one homozygous HTRA1 mutation, seven of which are novel. Compared with CADASIL, patients with heterozygous HTRA1‐related CSVD had a higher proportion of spine disorders and a lower proportion of white matter hyperintensities involving the anterior temporal lobe (p < 0.001).

Interpretation

This study shows that most HTRA1‐related CSVD patients in China carry heterozygous HTRA1 mutations. The specific extra‐neurological features and neuroimaging features reveal informative differences between heterozygous HTRA1‐related CSVD and CADASIL. We expand the mutational spectrum of HTRA1.
Phase Continuity, Brittle to Ductile Transition Temperature, and Creep Behavior of a Eutectic Mo–20Si–52.8Ti Alloy
Authors: Tirunilai Aditya Srinivasan , Hinrichs Frauke , Schliephake Daniel , Engstler Michael , Mücklich Frank , Obert Susanne , Winkens Georg , Kauffmann Alexander , Heilmaier Martin
Published: September 2022

Mo–Si–Ti alloys, like eutectic Mo–20Si–52.8Ti (at%), have previously been intensely investigated, owing to their excellent oxidation and creep resistance. To better understand high‐temperature mechanical behavior, a holistic assessment of microstructural features is necessary. Correspondingly, 3D‐focused ion beam tomography is carried out in Mo–20Si–52.8Ti. The results indicate a severely interconnected network of Mo solid solution (MoSS) and intermetallic (Ti,Mo)5Si3. Both phases retain similar network connectivity, lamellar sizes, etc. The brittle to ductile transition temperature (BDTT) is then determined through a series of bending tests and interpreted using the microstructural information. The BDTT is found to be ≈1100–1150 °C, different from Mo–9Si–8B with a continuous MoSS network. The BDTT is an immediate consequence of the continuous network of both MoSS and (Ti,Mo)5Si3. The MoSS network is instrumental in crack trapping and bridging, indicating that the present phase distribution maximized the mechanical performance over (Ti,Mo)5Si3. Having determined the network microstructure and BDTT, tensile creep behavior is evaluated and compared to previously published compressive creep results. The results show consistency in terms of strain rate, stress exponent, and microstructural features indicating a reliably good creep resistance for the network microstructure of Mo–20Si–52.8Ti regardless of loading direction.
Improvement of Microstructure and Properties of Cu Coatings Prepared with Cold Spraying by Plasma Heating
Authors: Wang Mengyu , Chang Dongxu , Yu Baoyi , Chen Wenchao , Zheng Li
Published: September 2022

To improve the microstructure and properties of Cu coating prepared by cold spraying, the plasma heating is used during the cold spraying process. The models of Cu particles deposited on a Cu substrate during cold spraying process without/with plasma heating are established and calculated, and the results are compared. The calculated results show that the plasma heating causes copper particles and substrates to produce greater plastic deformation during deposition. The microstructure of Cu coating prepared by cold spraying with plasma heating is experimentally investigated. Plasma heating can effectively reduce the porosity of the copper coating, improve the binding between the coating and the substrate, and reduce the grain size of the coating, which is due to the greater deformation of the copper particles under plasma heating. The experimental results are consistent with the calculation results. The results of the coating immersion experiments show that the corrosion rate of the Cu coating prepared by plasma‐assisted low‐pressure cold spraying is reduced from 1.5 to 0.094 mg cm−2 h compared with the samples prepared without plasma heating under the same conditions, which is due to the reduced porosity of the coating.
Shape‐Controlled Solution‐Epitaxial Perovskite Micro‐Crystal Lasers Rivaling Vapor Deposited Ones
Authors: Afify Hany A. , Rehm Viktor , Barabash Anastasiia , These Albert , Zhang Jiyun , Osvet Andres , Schüßlbauer Christoph , Thiel Dominik , Ullrich Tobias , Dierner Martin , Przybilla Thomas , Will Johannes , Spiecker Erdmann , Guldi Dirk M. , Brabec Christoph J. , Heiss Wolfgang
Published: September 2022

Epitaxial growth methods usually need dedicated equipment, high energy consumption to maintain pure vacuum conditions and evaporation of source materials, and elevated substrate temperatures. Solution epitaxial growth requires nothing of that but is rarely used because the achieved microstructures are of low quality, not homogeneous, and finally exhibit worse performances in devices. Here, an antisolvent‐vapor‐assisted‐crystallization of metal‐halide‐perovskites as a method overcoming these disadvantages is demonstrated. The methylammonium lead tribromide exhibits van‐der‐Waals type of epitaxial growth on mica substrates, resulting in micro‐crystallites whose shape can be controlled to be either triangular micro‐prism or micro‐cuboid. These micro‐crystallites act as optical resonators supporting various optical modes and lasing is achieved under optical excitation with low thresholds and record high environmental stability. Selecting suitable resonators from a large variety of sizes allows control of mode spacing and finally mono‐mode operation, considered to be an important feature of semiconductor laser devices. The achieved results are essentially competitive to those obtained by vapor phase epitaxial microstructures, highlighting that epitaxy of high‐quality optoelectronic device structures is feasible by minimum technological efforts and energy consumption, which are of increasing importance considering issues such as global warming and the current energy crisis.
Construction of Wogonin Nanoparticle‐Containing Strontium‐Doped Nanoporous Structure on Titanium Surface to Promote Osteoporosis Fracture Repair
Authors: Wang Dong , Chen Mao‐Wen , Wei Yu‐Jia , Geng Wen‐Bo , Hu Yan , Luo Zhong , Cai Kai‐Yong
Published: September 2022

M2 polarization of macrophage is an important immunomodulatory event that attenuates inflammation. To regulate the immune microenvironment in osteoporotic conditions for enhancing bone healing, strontium‐doped nano‐structure is fabricated on the surface of titanium implant via microarc oxidation and electrochemical deposition technology, followed by the addition of multiplayer coatings embedded with silk fibroin‐based wogonin nanoparticles (Ti‐MAO/Sr/LBLWNP) by layer‐by‐layer self‐assembly technique (LBL). It is found that Ti‐MAO/Sr/LBLWNPcan release wogonin and Sr2+in a sustainable manner for more than 7 and 21 days. In vitro studies show that Ti‐MAO/Sr/LBLWNPsignificantly upregulates the expression of CD206 while reducing the expression of CD86. Meanwhile, Ti‐MAO/Sr/LBLWNPcan promote the expression level of M2 macrophage anti‐inflammatory factor (TGF‐β1, Arg‐1), which improves the proliferation and osteogenic differentiation of osteoblasts through paracrine signaling. Compared to bare titanium, Ti‐MAO/Sr/LBLWNPsignificantly inhibits the expression of inflammatory factors around the implant and effectively promotes new bone formation at pre‐implant interface after implantation for 4 weeks. This study provides a simple and effective method to develop functional titanium alloy materials for osteoporotic fracture repair.
Sulphur Assisted Nitrogen‐Rich CNF for Improving Electronic Interactions in Co‐NiO Heterostructures Toward Accelerated Overall Water Splitting
Authors: Surendran Subramani , Jesudass Sebastian Cyril , Janani Gnanaprakasam , Kim Joon Young , Lim Yoongu , Park Jihyun , Han Mi‐Kyung , Cho In Sun , Sim Uk
Published: September 2022

Electrochemical water splitting is the eco‐friendly route to generate green hydrogen, which is recognized as sustainable energy for the future. However, the cost, operational efficiency, and long‐term durability of the electrochemical water splitting rely on the choice of the electrocatalysts. Hence, developing a superior design strategy is an important criterion to establish an efficient and sustainable water splitting system. Herein, a sulphur‐rich CoNiO heterostructure encapsulated on N‐rich carbon nanofibers (SCNO@N‐CNF) synthesized via a simple and efficient electrospinning technique is reported. The three‐way redox active centers, viz., the electron redistributed active Coδ ‐NiOδ + interfaces, S‐dopant sites with modified electronic density, and the porous N‐CNF matrix, makes the prepared electrocatalyst more efficient toward oxygen evolution reaction (OER) and hydrogen evolution reaction (HER). The SCNO@N‐CNF electrocatalyst exhibits a low OER and HER overpotentials (ηOER = 247 mV; ηHER = 169 mV) at a current density of 10 mA cm−2. Moreover, SCNO@N‐CNF was analyzed as the bifunctional electrocatalyst in overall electrochemical water splitting, and it is found to deliver 10 mA cm−2 at only 1.58 V. Thus, the design and engineering of multiple active elements in a single electrocatalyst is anticipated as an effective approach to establish an efficient and sustainable water splitting system.
Wafer‐Scale PLD‐Grown High‐κ GCZO Dielectrics for 2D Electronics
Authors: Yu Jing , Gao Guoyun , Han Wei , Wei Changting , Wang Yueyang , Lin Tianxiang , Zhang Tianyu , Zheng Zhi , Ki Dong‐Keun , Zhang Hongyuan , Ng Man Ho , Liu Hang , Wang Shuangpeng , Wang Hao , Ling Francis Chi‐Chung
Published: September 2022

Oxide dielectrics, such as HfO2, Al2O3, etc, are widely used to improve the performance of 2D semiconductors in electronic devices. However, future low‐power electronic devices need a higher dielectric constant (κ) to reduce the leakage current, and these super‐high‐κ materials are challenging to produce on wafer‐scale. Here, the preparation of wafer‐scale (Ga, Cu) co‐doping ZnO films is reported with super‐high dielectric constant (κ > 50) and good homogeneity by a pulsed laser deposition method. By regulating the (Ga, Cu) co‐doping concentration, the dielectric constants can range from 9 to 207. In addition, the performance of SnS2 field‐effect transistor reveals that the high‐κ Al2O3/GCZO gate dielectric stack is suitable for 2D electronic devices. This GCZO dielectric films not only show higher κ than other conventional dielectrics in terms of compatibility to CMOS processes, but also keep their comparative advantages in the fabrication of high‐performance electronic devices over conventional dielectrics.
Development of enhanced three‐dimensional printed packings for scale‐up of distillation columns: A successful case study
Authors: Neukäufer Johannes , Ashour Mohamed Adel , Sarajlic Nadin , Klein Harald , Rehfeldt Sebastian , Hallmann Heiko , Meinicke Sebastian , Paschold Jürgen , Knösche Carsten , Grützner Thomas
Published: September 2022

This publication presents a general approach for the enhancement of packings regarding scalability, separation efficiency, and fluid dynamic properties using three‐dimensional (3D) printing. The methodology is used to develop miniaturized, scalable packings for process development, and scale‐up applications. For this purpose, a 3D printable computer‐aided design version of the Rombopak 9M industrial packing (RP9M‐3D), which is known for its positive scalability properties, was created. An initial characterization by means of computational fluid dynamics simulations and mass transfer measurements reveals positive but also negative design properties. These findings are used to create a more advanced, miniaturized packing structure, the XW‐Pak. The evolved structure is compared to the RP9M‐3D. The simulation and experimental results show that the enhanced packing, which is still in the early stages of development, exhibits higher separation efficiencies with improved scalability properties at the same void fraction and surface area than the RP9M‐3D.
Robust and Dynamic Polymer Networks Enabled by Woven Crosslinks
Authors: Li Guangfeng , Zhao Jun , Zhang Zhaoming , Zhao Xinyang , Cheng Lin , Liu Yuhang , Guo Zhewen , Yu Wei , Yan Xuzhou
Published: September 2022

Crosslinking plays a crucial role in determining mechanical properties of polymer materials. Although various crosslinks based on covalent or noncovalent bonds have been adopted, it remains an enormous challenge to develop a crosslink which could endow corresponding polymer network with robust yet dynamic properties. Herein, we report a crosslink simultaneously having dynamic property and woven geometry, and the polymer network with woven crosslinks (WPN) could integrate the merits of covalent polymer network (CPN) and supramolecular polymer network (SPN). In specific, the WPN not only exhibits comparable stiffness, strength, elastic recovery, and anti‐fatigue property to those of CPN, but also possesses decent mechanical adaptivity and ductility, similar to those of SPN. Particularly, its toughness and puncture resistance are much superior to those of the others. Besides, the dynamicity of woven crosslink also imparts good performances of self‐healing and processability to WPN.
A direct GC‐FID method for analysis of palm‐based fatty alcohol carbon chain distribution
Authors: Tay Bonnie Yen Ping
Published: September 2022

Palm oil‐based fatty alcohol is a basic oleochemical with many different applications depending on its carbon chain length. The carbon chain distribution using a GC‐flame ionization detector (GC‐FID) is a quality control tool for monitoring the composition of either single or blended fatty alcohol. There is a published GC‐FID method but it requires a derivatization step. The objective of this work is to develop a derivatization‐free method with simple preparation steps. It can be used for routine analysis of the carbon chain distribution to determine the composition of palm‐based fatty alcohol. The GC‐FID method developed used a ZB‐FFAP (60 m × 0.25 mm i.d., 0.25 μm film thickness) consisting of polyethylene glycol bonded nitroterephthalic acid phase for separation of eight types of fatty alcohol with a run time of 40 min. The method showed good validation parameters performance in terms of accuracy (as compared with FAL standards), linearity (R2 > 0.9999) and intraday and intermediate precision (CV < 0.05% for retention time and CV < 1.5% for peak area). Monitoring of commercial FAL from local manufacturers showed that the composition was consistent with the required specifications.
An innovative approach to develop self‐healing materials from commercial tire‐grade elastomers
Authors: Saha Sukdeb , Srivastava Vivek K. , Jasra Raksh Vir , Choudhury Rudra Prosad
Published: September 2022

In the present work, a solid state environment‐friendly methodology has been adopted to produce self‐healing elastomers using commercial tire‐grade polybutadiene rubber (BR) and butyl rubber (IIR). The elastomeric chains were directly grafted with optimized dosages of maleic anhydride followed by reactive mixing with ring opening amine‐based adducts (e.g., 3‐Amino‐1, 2, 4‐triazole) to create acid/amide‐based supramolecular cooperative hydrogen bonds between elastomer chains, without any adverse effect on the intrinsic properties of the elastomers. Thus, modified elastomers in gum state were found to be have supramolecular cross‐linking, that is, without applying any conventional vulcanizing agents. The tensile strength and tensile modulus of Modified BR, that is, BR‐g‐MAH (Tz) were enhanced by ~3.5% and ~7.5% respectively compared to commercial BR due to incorporation of hydrogen bonding network. The modified elastomers were also found to be thermo‐responsive in which micro‐cracks were healed in presence of thermal stimuli. Such healing could have been observed due to presence of reversible hydrogen‐bonding based dissociation and association phenomenon. The thermo‐reversible supramolecular hydrogen bonding was observed in 1H NMR spectroscopy as well. Furthermore, such modified BR, when utilized in different pneumatic tire formulations, significantly improvement in dynamic property was observed as compared to tire formulation made using commercial grade BR. The modified elastomer showed potential to replace the commercial‐grade elastomers for various conventional elastomers applications especially in tire sidewalls, tire tread etc. Additionally, such modified BR may improve tire life cycle, and thereby, reduces tire‐waste generation. It may also find applications in non‐tire sectors like conveyer belts, sealing joints, impact protection etc.
Des Moines Water Works Leads the Way in Energy Management
Authors: Oscarson Douglas , Corrigan Ted
Published: September 2022

Key Takeaways

As with its other operational areas, Des Moines Water Works manages energy consumption—a top expense—by pursuing organization‐wide commitment and maximum efficiency.

The utility identified inefficient equipment and processes that were not evident until individual metering and in‐depth analysis had been performed.

ISO 50001 provides guidance and best practices to manage energy, improve energy efficiency, and reduce carbon emissions.
Industry Workforce Development: The Value of Internships
Authors: Adams Hunter , Reeder Sam , Appleton Emily , Thomas Dave , Southard Mark
Published: September 2022

Key Takeaways

As its current workforce ages and retires, the water industry needs to bring in ambitious, young employees to keep the water flowing.

Classrooms provide students with technical knowledge, and internships provide them with hands‐on experience that will help them stand out in job applications.

Internships allow employers to see how prospective applicants work under pressure to determine if they are a good fit for the team.

Internship programs provide a potential pipeline for new employees who may have not otherwise known about water industry positions.
Simple determination of urine cefazolin concentration in pediatric patients with urinary tract infections using high‐performance liquid chromatography
Authors: Abe Kurumi , Momo Kenji , Abe Yoshifusa , Kanazawa Takeru , Karato Ryo , Tanaka Katsumi , Sasaki Tadanori
Published: September 2022

Recently, global health concerns regarding increasing multidrug resistance have arisen. This study aimed to develop a simple, inexpensive and rapid high‐performance liquid chromatography–ultraviolet (HPLC–UV) method for determining urinary concentrations of a first‐generation cephem antibiotic in pediatric patients with urinary tract infections (UTIs). HPLC–UV was used to analyze urinary cefazolin concentrations at a detection wavelength of 254 nm. The assay used contained 10‐fold diluted urine with an internal standard (cephapirin). The standard calibration curve for cefazolin was linear in the concentration range of 31.25–500 μg/ml (r2 > 0.999). The retention times of cefazolin and the internal standard were 4.2 and 4.9 min, respectively. The within‐ and between‐day coefficients of variation were in the concentration ranges 1.2–15.2 and 5.5–19.2%, respectively. The urinary cefazolin concentration of a pediatric patient with a UTI was 1,476.6 μg/ml, which was over 700‐fold higher than the minimum inhibitory concentration of cefazolin (≤2 μg/ml). The developed method is applicable to the confirmation of appropriate use for UTI treatment as therapeutic drug monitoring of cefazolin. Therefore, the findings of this study may contribute to the appropriate use of antibiotics to prevent antimicrobial resistance in pediatric patients with UTIs.
Regulating Oxygen Configuration in Hierarchically Porous Carbon Nanosheets for High‐Rate and Durable Na+ Storage
Authors: Wang Liaoliao , Cen Meixiang , El‐Khodary Sherif A. , Ramachandran K. , Huang Jinning , Cui Yingxue , Ng Dickon H. L. , Wang Chuan , Lian Jiabiao
Published: September 2022

Surface oxygen functionalities (particularly C−O configuration) in carbon materials have negative influence on their electrical conductivity and Na+ storage performance. Herein, we propose a concept from surface chemistry to regulate the oxygen configuration in hierarchically porous carbon nanosheets (HPCNS). It is demonstrated that the C−O/C=O ratio in HPCNS reduces from 1.49 to 0.43 and its graphitization degree increases by increasing the carbonization temperature under a reduction atmosphere. Remarkably, such high graphitization degree and low C−O content of the HPCNS‐800 are favorable for promoting its electron/ion transfer kinetics, thus endowing it with high‐rate (323.6 mAh g−1 at 0.05 A g−1 and 138.5 mAh g−1 at 20.0 A g−1) and durable (96 % capacity retention over 5700 cycles at 10.0 A g−1) Na+ storage performance. This work permits the optimization of heteroatom configurations in carbon for superior Na+ storage.
Vergleich verschiedener Ansätze zur nachhaltigen Olefinproduktion nach dem MtO‐ und FT‐Verfahren
Authors: Kansy Martin , Neuner Philipp , Bajohr Siegfried , Rauch Reinhard , Kolb Thomas
Published: September 2022

Olefine sind ein essenzieller Bestandteil der modernen organischen Chemie. Nach aktuellem Stand der Technik wird meist Rohöl als Rohstoff verwendet, welches zunächst in einer Raffinerie fraktioniert wird. Anschließend wird die Naphthafraktion einem Steamcracker zugeführt, in dem die Kohlenwasserstoffe zu den gewünschten Olefinen gecrackt werden. Zur Grundlage der Diskussion, welche alternative Wege sich zur Erzeugung von Olefinen anbieten, werden in diesem Beitrag zwei ausgewählte alternative Herstellungsprozessrouten miteinander verglichen.
Was Menschen bewegt, die etwas bewegen
Authors: Wehinger Gregor D.
Published: September 2022

Im Profil: Juniorprofessor Dr.‐Ing. Gregor D. Wehinger, Technische Universität Clausthal – Fachgebiet Dynamik Chemischer Prozesse, Institut für Chemische und Elektrochemische Verfahrenstechnik. 2018 wurde er mit dem Hanns‐Hofmann‐Preis von ProcessNet ausgezeichnet und im September 2022 wird ihm der Arnold‐Eucken‐Nachwuchspreis der VDI‐GVC verliehen.
A multi‐priority hierarchical optimization method for double‐layer model predictive control
Authors: Wang Hongrui , Zou Tao , Zheng Hongyu , Yang Zhijia , Wang Jingyang
Published: September 2022

Considering the demand for the sequential regulation of manipulated variables in actual industrial process control, the conventional solution of double‐layer model predictive control faces the problem that the weight coefficients are difficult to tune. This paper proposes an improved hierarchical optimization method for manipulated variables in the steady‐state optimization layer of double‐layer model predictive control. The proposed method can adjust the manipulated variables sequentially without an accurate weight coefficient to avoid difficulty in tuning the weight coefficients. The relation between the optimal solution and the feasible region of the steady‐state optimization layer is analysed to describe the reoptimization of the key manipulated variables. The impact of the economic cost coefficient on the optimal solution with the sensitivity analysis method is studied, and the complexity of using the weight coefficient to solve the priority optimization problem of the manipulated variables is assessed. The steady‐state optimization solution procedure is improved based on the theory of the multiobjective complete hierarchical method. The hierarchical and sequential optimization of the manipulated variables results in expanding the space and freedom of the key manipulated variables, increasing efficiency, reducing consumption, and improving economic performance. The improved hierarchical optimization method is direct and simple in achieving optimization sequentially and satisfies the need for adjusting the manipulated variables according to human intentions.