bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Analytical models for electroosmotic consolidation of layered soil systems considering the boundary effects of horizontal electrodes
Authors: Li Jian‐Ping , Chen Zhang‐Long , Zhuang Jin‐Ping , Liu Jun , Wang Shun
Published: January 2024

The pore water can usually flow through the horizontal electrodes, resulting in the top sand layer and the bottom unelectroosmotic layer inevitably affecting the consolidation process of the electroosmotic layer. However, the traditional assumption of the fully drained or undrained electrode boundaries is unable to reflect these boundary effects. In this study, one‐dimensional analytical models for electroosmotic consolidation of the layered soil systems considering the boundary effects of horizontal electrodes are proposed. The solutions for the models are derived using the separate variable method and Laplace transform method. The rationality of the one‐dimensional model is also illustrated by comparing it with the results produced by the two‐dimensional model and the accuracies of the solutions are verified through a series of analytical and numerical validation examples. Parametric studies are conducted to investigate the effects of the sand layer and the unelectroosmotic layer on the consolidation process. Results show that both the sand layer and the unelectroosmotic layer may significantly delay the consolidation progress. The time factor corresponding to 90% average degree of consolidation (Tv_90%U*) can increase by over 1.5 times in comparison with the model without a sand layer when the permeability coefficient ratio of the subsoil to the upper layer reaches 10. The delayed effect is particularly pronounced when the thickness of the unelectroosmotic layer with higher compressibility is relatively larger, potentially resulting in a tenfold or even greater increase in Tv_90%U*.
Design of Promising Uranyl(VI) Complexes Thin Films with Potential Applications in Molecular Electronics
Authors: Monzón González César Raúl , Sánchez Vergara María Elena , Elías‐Espinosa Milton Carlos , Rodríguez‐Valencia Sergio Arturo , López‐Mayorga Byron José , Castillo‐Arroyave José León , Toscano Rubén Alfredo , Flores Octavio Lozada , Álvarez Toledano Cecilio
Published: January 2024

In this work, it is proposed the development of organic semiconductors (OS) based on uranyl(VI) complexes. The above by means of the synthesis and the characterization of the complexes by Infrared spectroscopy, Nuclear magnetic resonance spectroscopy, mass spectrometry, and X‐ray diffraction. Films of these complexes were deposited and subsequently, topographic and structural characterization was carried out by Scanning Electron Microscopy, X‐ray diffraction, and Atomic Force Microscopy. Additionally, the nanomechanical evaluation was performed to know the stiffness of uranyl films using their modulus of elasticity. Also, the optical characterization took place in the devices and their bandgap value ranges between 2.40 and 2.93 eV being the minor for the film of the uranyl complex with the N on pyridine in position 4 (2 c). Finally, the electrical behavior of the uranyl(VI) films was evaluated, and important differences were obtained: the uranyl complex with the N on pyridine in position 2 (2 a) film is not influenced by changes in lighting and its current density is in the order of 10−3 A/cm2. The film with uranyl complex with the N on pyridine in position 3 (2 b) and 2 c presents a greater current flow under lighting conditions and two orders of magnitude larger than in film 2 a. In these films 2 b and 2 c, ohmic behavior occurs at low voltages, while at high voltages the charge transport changes to space‐charge limited current behavior.
Pediatric cutaneous T‐cell neoplasm and mimics with gamma‐delta expression: Not always aggressive
Authors: Cheng Jinjun , Toner Keri , Habeshian Kaiane , Cardis Michael , Cowen Edward W. , Bollard Catherine M. , Wistinghausen Birte , Kirkorian A. Yasmine
Published: January 2024

Pediatric cutaneous T‐cell lymphoma with γδ immunophenotype is extremely rare. Only a few cases of γδ T‐cell neoplasm have been reported in the literature, and therefore little is known whether γδ T‐cell neoplasms in children are distinct from their adult counterparts with respect to the clinicopathological presentation, behavior, and prognosis. In this study, we demonstrate three unique pediatric cutaneous T‐cell neoplasm and mimics with increased γδ T cells. All cases showed an indolent clinical course.
Effect of air, O2, Ar, and N2 plasma‐activated water on mildewing activity of moldy pathogen of Gannan navel oranges
Authors: Tan Menghao , Chen Wei , Li Mengchao , Luo Qianqian , Xiao Yujun , Liu Fang , Wang Xingquan , Gao Zhiqiang , Chang Xiaopeng , Gong Teng , Huang Jun , Ostrikov Kostya (Ken)
Published: January 2024

In this study, the physicochemical properties of plasma‐activated water (PAW) prepared from air, , , and plasma and the trend of the concentration of reactive oxygen and nitrogen species (RONS) with respect to time were investigated and related to the effect of PAW on navel orange mold. The results showed that PAW had a strong lethal effect on navel orange mold and could effectively inhibit the mildewing activity of pathogenic spores. In addition, PAW is effective in reducing weight loss and decay of navel oranges during storage. This study suggests the potential application of PAW to prevent fungal infections during storage of agricultural products.
Impact of elexacaftor/tezacaftor/ivacaftor on lipid and fat‐soluble vitamin levels and association with body mass index
Authors: Patel Tanvi , McBennett Kimberly , Sankararaman Senthilkumar , Schindler Teresa , Sundaram Krithika , Minich Nori Mercuri , Malay Sindhoosha , Kutney Katherine
Published: January 2024

Introduction

Cystic fibrosis transmembrane conductance regulator (CFTR) modulators improve gastrointestinal absorption of nutrients and may result in changes in body mass index (BMI), serum lipids, and fat‐soluble vitamin levels. We hypothesized that serum lipids and vitamin levels would increase with CFTR modulator therapy and that greater increase in lipids and vitamin levels would be related to greater increase in BMI.

Methods

A retrospective study was performed to evaluate the impact of elexacaftor/tezacaftor/ivacaftor (ETI) on nutritional parameters, serum lipids, and fat‐soluble vitamin levels. Pre‐ETI values (<2 years prior) and post‐ETI values (>1 month after) were compared. Linear regression was used to evaluate whether change in BMI is associated with the change in lipid and/or vitamin levels and whether modulator duration is associated with the degree of rise in lipid and/or vitamin levels.

Results

Adults and adolescents with CF (n = 137) were evaluated before and 31–300 days after starting ETI. Median BMI (adults 21.9 vs. 23.5 kg/m2; adolescents 48 vs. 63 percentile) increased after initiation of ETI. Total cholesterol (126 vs. 154 mg/dL), low‐density lipoprotein cholesterol (63 vs. 78 mg/dL), non‐high‐density lipoprotein cholesterol (84 vs. 102 mg/dL), and high density lipoprotein cholesterol (43 vs. 49 mg/dL) increased after ETI, while triglycerides and very low density lipoprotein did not change. Median values for vitamin D (34.5 vs. 38.0 ng/mL) and vitamin A (40.1 vs. 47.9 µg/dL) increased, while vitamin E did not change significantly. There was no significant correlation between BMI change or duration of modulator therapy with vitamin levels or lipid changes.

Conclusion

After initiation of ETI therapy, serum lipids increased in our population, but most values remained within the normal range. Vitamins A and D levels increased post‐ETI and no changes were noted in vitamin E. No significant correlation between the degree of BMI change and the magnitude of increase in lipids or vitamin levels was found.
Regional pulmonary oxygen saturations in late preterm and term infants with respiratory distress at birth
Authors: Yasa Beril , Kersin Sinem Gülcan , Cetinkaya Merih , Ozek Eren , Bilgen Hulya
Published: January 2024

Background

Measurement of regional pulmonary oxygen saturation by near‐infrared spectroscopy is a novel monitorization method. This study aimed to determine the early regional pulmonary oxygen saturations in neonates with respiratory distress.

Methods

This observational study was conducted at the delivery room in infants above 35 weeks of gestation who developed respiratory distress immediately after birth. Preductal oxygen saturation (Covidien Nellcor®) and regional oxygen saturations of both apical (raSO2) and basal regions (rbSO2) of right lung were measured (Covidien INVOS®) within the first 15 min of life and compared to those of healthy neonates.

Results

Of the 165 infants included to the study, 15 were late preterm and 55 developed respiratory distress. Infants with respiratory distress had significantly lower gestational age and birth weight. Regional pulmonary oxygenations at both apex and basal lung areas were positively correlated with SpO2 in all infants. The rbSO2 was significantly lower than raSO2 until 10th minute of life regardless of respiratory distress. The fractionized tissue oxygen extraction of both apical and basal lung areas was significantly higher in infants with respiratory distress until 5th minute of life.

Conclusion

This study is one of the pioneer studies evaluating the early pulmonary oxygenation values of infants with respiratory distress. Oxygenation of apical lung regions are better than basal areas. Higher fractionized tissue oxygen extraction showed the impaired pulmonary perfusion in infants with respiratory distress.
Hypoventilation in patients with Prader‐Willi syndrome across the pediatric age
Authors: Chen Catherine , Ioan Iulia , Thieux Marine , Nicolino Marc , Franco Patricia , Coutier Laurianne
Published: January 2024

Objectives

Few data on alveolar hypoventilation in Prader‐Willi syndrome (PWS) are available and the respiratory follow‐up of these patients is not standardized. The objectives of this study were to evaluate the prevalence of alveolar hypoventilation in children with PWS and identify potential risk factors.

Study Design

This retrospective study included children with PWS recorded by polysomnography (PSG) with transcutaneous carbon dioxide pressure (PtcCO2) or end‐tidal CO2 (ETCO2) measurements, between 2007 and 2021, in a tertiary hospital center. The primary outcome was the presence of alveolar hypoventilation defined as partial pressure of carbon dioxide (pCO2) ≥ 50 mmHg during ≥2% of total sleep time (TST) or more than five consecutive minutes.

Results

Among the 57 included children (38 boys, median age 4.8 years, range 0.1–15.6, 60% treated with growth hormone [GH], 37% obese), 19 (33%) had moderate‐to‐severe obstructive sleep apnea syndrome (defined as obstructive apnea‐hypopnea index ≥5/h) and 20 (35%) had hypoventilation. The median (range) pCO2 max was 49 mmHg (38–69). Among the children with hypoventilation, 25% were asymptomatic. Median age and GH treatment were significantly higher in children with hypoventilation compared to those without. There was no significant difference in terms of sex, BMI, obstructive or central apnea‐hypopnea index between both groups.

Conclusion

The frequency of alveolar hypoventilation in children and adolescents with PWS is of concern and may increase with age and GH treatment. A regular screening by oximetry‐capnography appears to be indicated whatever the sex, BMI, and rate of obstructive or central apneas.
Nanocurcumin supplementation improves pulmonary function in severe COPD patients: A randomized, double blind, and placebo‐controlled clinical trial
Authors: Zare'i Mahdieh , Rabieepour Masoumeh , Ghareaghaji Rasoul , Zarrin Rasoul , Faghfouri Amir Hossein
Published: January 2024

Considering the anti‐inflammatory properties of curcumin, the present study was designed to investigate the effect of nano‐curcumin on respiratory indices and interleukin‐6 (IL‐6) levels in severe chronic obstructive pulmonary disease (COPD) patients as a common pulmonary disease causing restricted airflow and breathing problems. In the current double‐blind placebo‐controlled randomized clinical trial study, 60 patients with stages 3 and 4 COPD were randomly assigned into 80 mg nano‐curcumin (n = 30) and placebo groups (n = 30) for 3 months. The effect of nano‐curcumin on pulmonary function was evaluated by the first second of forced expiration (FEV1) to the full, forced vital capacity (FVC) ratio. IL‐6 serum level, blood pressure, and anthropometric indices were also measured. Nano‐curcumin supplementation led to a significant decrease in IL‐6 level (p < 0.001) and an increase in FEV1 (p < 0.001), FVC (p = 0.003), and FEV1/FVC (p < 0.001) compared to placebo at the endpoint. Nano‐curcumin had a significantly increasing effect on weight and body mass index compared to the placebo group (PANCOVA adjusted for baseline values = 0.042). There was a meaningful improvement in systolic blood pressure in the nano‐curcumin group compared to the placebo group (PANCOVA adjusted for baseline values = 0.026). There was no significant difference between the two groups in terms of waist circumference, waist‐to‐hip ratio, and diastolic blood pressure (PANCOVA adjusted for baseline values >0.05). Nano‐curcumin supplement seems to have favorable effects on inflammation status and respiratory indices of patients with severe COPD.
The study of electronic and optical properties of ZnO/MoS2 and its vacancy heterostructures by first principles
Authors: Wang Xiao , Zhang Hongyu , Yu Wen
Published: January 2024

Based on the first principles calculation, the effects of vacancies on the structural, electronic and optical properties of ZnO/MoS2 heterostructure are investigated in this work. The results show that vacancies could exist stably in the heterojunctions and cause a significant decrease in bandgap. ZnO/MoS2 with an O vacancy maintains semiconductor property with a bandgap of 0.119 eV, while heterostructure with a Zn vacancy exhibits metallic characteristic. Furthermore, the absorption capability of defective heterojunctions has been extended to infrared light region with obvious redshift. To sum up, vacancy engineering effectively changes the electronic and optical properties of ZnO/MoS2 heterostructure, which provides a feasible approach for adjusting the optoelectronic properties of two‐dimensional heterostructures and broadening their application in functional nanoelectronic and optoelectronic devices.
An unexpected case of broncholithiasis secondary to pulmonary nocardiosis
Authors: Chhor Louis , Tumali Reditta Soraya , Östberg Caroline , Macdonald Andrew , Wade Christine
Published: January 2024

Key message

Persistent productive cough despite appropriate treatment warrants consideration of flexible bronchoscopy to obtain bronchial specimens for culture. Endobronchial examination of airways may reveal signs of infection in the form of purulent secretions, sputum plugs or in this case, an unexpected finding of a calcified broncholithiasis secondary to Nocardia infection.
Virus‐induced host cell metabolic alteration
Authors: Bappy Syed Shahariar , Haque Asim Md. Muzammal , Ahasan Mohammad Mainul , Ahsan Asif , Sultana Sorna , Khanam Roksana , Shibly Abu Zaffar , Kabir Yearul
Published: January 2024

Viruses change the host cell metabolism to produce infectious particles and create optimal conditions for replication and reproduction. Numerous host cell pathways have been modified to ensure available biomolecules and sufficient energy. Metabolomics studies conducted over the past decade have revealed that eukaryotic viruses alter the metabolism of their host cells on a large scale. Modifying pathways like glycolysis, fatty acid synthesis and glutaminolysis could provide potential energy for virus multiplication. Thus, almost every virus has a unique metabolic signature and a different relationship between the viral life cycle and the individual metabolic processes. There are enormous research in virus induced metabolic reprogramming of host cells that is being conducted through numerous approaches using different vaccine candidates and antiviral drug substances. This review provides an overview of viral interference to different metabolic pathways and improved monitoring in this area will open up new ways for more effective antiviral therapies and combating virus induced oncogenesis.
The impact of trained immunity in respiratory viral infections
Authors: Piret Jocelyne , Boivin Guy
Published: January 2024

Epidemic peaks of respiratory viruses that co‐circulate during the winter‐spring seasons can be synchronous or asynchronous. The occurrence of temporal patterns in epidemics caused by some respiratory viruses suggests that they could negatively interact with each other. These negative interactions may result from a programme of innate immune memory, known as trained immunity, which may confer broad protective effects against respiratory viruses. It is suggested that stimulation of innate immune cells by a vaccine or a pathogen could induce their long‐term functional reprogramming through an interplay between metabolic and epigenetic changes, which influence the transcriptional response to a secondary challenge. During the coronavirus disease 2019 pandemic, the circulation of most respiratory viruses was prevented by non‐pharmacological interventions and then resumed at unusual periods once sanitary measures were lifted. With time, respiratory viruses should find again their own ecological niches. This transition period provides an opportunity to study the interactions between respiratory viruses at the population level.
Graphene and Graphene Derived Nanomaterials as Versatile Candidates for Organic Solar Cells and Smart Windows Applications – A Review
Authors: Ferry Darim Badur , Rasheed Tahir , Anwar Muhammad Tuoqeer , Imran Muhammad
Published: January 2024

Graphene and related materials have been employed in several applications till date due to the unique set of properties. Research in the area of organic solar cells and smart windows are important to meet the increasing global energy demands and to realize the future goal of zero energy buildings. Here, we present a summary of the important research progress in application of graphene and related materials in organic solar cells and smart windows. This review starts by introducing the need of photovoltaic technology including organic solar cells and smart windows. The remaining sections are broadly divided into two sections – the first one briefly introduces organic cells and their different types, and the next section focuses on the different chromogenic technologies used in smart windows. After a brief overview of graphene, the application of graphene and related materials in organic cells and smart windows are presented. In the end, some of the major challenges and possible research directions are also outlined. Hopefully, this review will shed light on the recent trends and directions to achieve enhancement in performance of organic solar cells and smart windows with integration of graphene and provide overview for researchers about this novel field.
Manganese Detection in Water Samples via Photometrix Colorimetric Analysis on Smartphones, by using Silver Nanoparticles Prepared from Okara Extract
Authors: Panjina Piyachat , Rawat Anchali , Seedad Ratchadaporn , Songsrirote Kriangsak
Published: January 2024

Soybean residue (okara) extract combined with trisodium citrate was applied as reducing and stabilizing agents for the green synthesis of silver nanoparticles (AgNPs). Okara contained large quantities of biomolecules affecting the property of the synthesized AgNPs as a detection sensor. This work presented the application of the AgNPs as a colorimetric probe for Mn2+ detection. A free mobile application called PhotoMetrix that can be downloaded onto smartphones was developed for a color analysis. The developed approach provided a linearity range for Mn2+ detection of 0.025–5.0 ppm with the limit of detection and limit of quantification of 0.01 and 0.03 ppm, respectively, under optimal conditions. The reaction time was 9 minutes with no need for pH adjustment. The developed method was applied for Mn2+ determination in filtered water samples, and the results were in good agreement with the standard method, atomic absorption spectroscopy. The binding sites of interaction between molecular functional groups surrounding the surface of AgNPs and Mn2+ ions were characterized to elucidate the detection selectivity, and it was found that carbonyl and hydroxyl groups were key to the sensor activity.
Developing a Rapid and Sensitive Colorimetric Sensor for Detection of Food Adulterant Rhodamine‐B in Real Samples
Authors: Pratap Ravi , Das Arunava , Mishra Archana , Chaudhary Shilpi , Singh Parmar Avanish
Published: January 2024

Rhodamine B (Rh−B) is a well‐known carcinogenic agent with potential health risks, yet it is frequently used as a food adulterant in developing countries. This study presents the synthesis and characterization of a Broussonetia Zeylanica extract (BZ‐EXT) from a plant for the rapid, efficient, and sensitive colorimetric sensing of Rh−B. The limit of detection (LOD) and limit of quantification (LOQ) were found to be 0.41 μg/mL and 1.31 μg/mL, respectively. We demonstrating superior sensitivity compared to conventional methods using DI water as a solvent. Furthermore, the practical applicability of the developed material was successfully tested in real samples, yielding estimated values of Rh−B are 0.76 μg/mL and 0.52 μg/mL, respectively. The pH dependent colorimetric sensing performance of the BZ‐EXT for Rh−B detection was found more efficient at aqueous pH value of 9.2. These results highlight the potential of the BZ‐EXT as a promising tool for rapid and sensitive detection of Rh−B food adulteration in real samples.
Sodium Chloride Induced pH and Temperature Responsive Biocompatible Hydrogel of Choline Oleate for Transdermal Drug Delivery of Doxorubicin
Authors: Jain Monika , Pansuriya Raviraj , Kumar Sugam , Aswal Vinod K. , Kumar Kailasa Suresh , Malek Naved I.
Published: January 2024

Nanodrug carriers have various biological and pharmaceutical applications, and among all the transdermal drug delivery is fascinating, specifically for localized medication therapy to a specific diseased organ or limited diseased area of the body, such as breast cancer cells or carcinoma cells. This way the efficacy of drug can be enhanced and its side effect to other healthy organs can be reduced to great extent. To ameliorate the limitations of traditional polymeric drug delivery systems, such as limited quantity and heterogeneity of the loaded drug, we developed a NaCl induced biocompatible gel of wormlike micelles of surface active ionic liquid (SAIL) i. e. choline oleate ([Ch][Ol]). Apart from the pH and temperature responsive mechanical properties, the designed gel also show good skin permeability, biocompatibility, adhesive qualities, stretchability, and viscoelasticity. The gel was tested for encapsulation of anticancer drug doxorubicin (DOX) and its transdermal delivery at pH=7.4 and pH=5.2. This system exhibits tremendous transdermal permeability of DOX and selective release more amount of the drug at 5.2 pH. Hence for localised and targeted delivery of an anticancer drug, this system can be proven to be suitable.
Decolorisation of textile wastewater using biosynthesised iron oxide nanomaterials and Optimisation by Response Surface Methodology
Authors: Yadav Sangita , Chander Subhash , Gupta Asha
Published: January 2024

In this study, the bacteria (Pseudomonas sp.) was isolated and cultured for biogenic fabrication of Fe3O4 (synthesised using bacterial cell mass) and Fe3O4@ME (synthesised using bacterial extracts) nanoparticles. The biomolecules of the bacterial extract function as a reducing and capping agent, giving the nanoparticle surface negative charges, according to the FTIR and Z potential analysis. The parameters were optimised and screened for indigo blue (IB) dye adsorption onto Fe3O4 and Fe3O4@ME nanoparticles. This work used the Design of the Experimental (DoE) method rather than the conventional one‐variable‐at‐a‐time method. The central composite design (CCD) experiment consisted of 13 experimental runs, and an analysis of variance (ANOVA) was performed to analyse the results. The models for IB dye removal using Fe3O4 and Fe3O4@ME nanomaterials showed adjusted R2 values of 0.99 and 0.99 and predicted R2 values of 0.97 and 0.99, respectively, indicating good model fit. The optimum conditions required for 70 and 64 % colour removal for Fe3O4 and Fe3O4@ME nanomaterials, respectively, are observed at 0.050 gm sorbent doses at the constant room temperature and contact time of 100 min.
Biological Applications of The Newly Designed Phthalocyanine‐Modified Gold Nanorods
Authors: Öztürk Nazlı Farajzadeh , Özdemir Sadin , Giray Gülay , Aftab Javaria , Bayır Zehra Altuntaş
Published: January 2024

In this study, a new di‐substituted phthalonitrile derivative namely 2‐[2‐{(3,5‐bis (trifluoromethyl) phenyl) ethynyl}‐4,5 dicyanophenyl] malonate was synthesized. The cycloteramerization of the resultant compound in the presence of the related metal salts resulted in a number of metal {M=Co, Mn, and Lu} phthalocyanines. The newly synthesized macromolecules were used for the functionalization of gold nanorods. To study the effect of modification and metal ion on the biological properties of the gold nanorods, the biological features of the phthalocyanines, phthalocyanine‐gold nanorod conjugates, and gold nanorods were examined by performing different biological approaches. In this study, the anti‐diabetic activities of fluorinated phthalocyanines and their gold nanorod conjugates were examined for the first time using pancreatic alpha‐amylase. The antioxidant activities of the studied nano/structures were analyzed using 2,2‐diphenyl‐1‐picrylhydrazil (DPPH) radical scavenging assay. Their antimicrobial and antimicrobial photodynamic therapy activities (APDT) were investigated, as well. They exhibited good DNA cleavage activities. The highest biofilm inhibition activities were obtained 97.49 and 91.53 % for 200 mg/L of nanoconjugate (7) against S. aureus and P. aeruginosa, respectively. All the studied biological candidates also displayed effective microbial cell viability inhibition activities against E. coli.
Self‐Assembled Layer of Organic Phosphonic Acid Enables Highly Stable MnO2 Cathode for Aqueous Znic Batteries
Authors: Xiao Xilin , Zhang Lei , Xin Wenli , Yang Min , Geng Yaheng , Niu Mengfan , Zhang Hui , Zhu Zhiqiang
Published: January 2024

Manganese dioxide (MnO2) is an attractive cathode material for aqueous zinc batteries (AZBs) owing to its environmental benignity, low cost, high operating voltage, and high theoretical capacity. However, the severe dissolution of Mn2+ leads to rapid capacity decay. Herein, a self‐assembled layer of amino‐propyl phosphonic acid (AEPA) on the MnO2 surface, which significantly improves its cycle performance is successfully modified. Specifically, AEPA can be firmly attached to MnO2 through a strong chemical bond, forming a hydrophobic, and uniform organic coating layer with a few nanometers thickness. This coating layer can significantly inhibit the dissolution of Mn2+ by avoiding the direct contact between the electrolyte and cathode, thus enhancing the structural integrity and redox reversibility of MnO2. As a result, the MnO2@AEPA cathode achieves a high reversible capacity of 223 mAh g−1 at 0.5 A g−1 and a high capacity retention of 97% after 1700 cycles at 1 A g−1. This work provides new insights in developing stable Mn‐based cathodes for aqueous batteries.
In Situ, Rapid Synthesis of Carbon‐Loaded High Density and Ultrasmall High Entropy Oxide Nanoparticles as Efficient Electrocatalysts
Authors: Chang Rui , Li Hongdong , Tian Xiaofeng , Yang Yu , Dong Tian , Wang Zhenhui , Lai Jianping , Feng Shouhua , Wang Lei
Published: January 2024

High entropy materials offer almost unlimited catalytic possibilities due to their variable composition, unique structure, and excellent electrocatalytic performance. However, due to the strong tendency of nanoparticles to coarsen and agglomerate, it is still a challenge to synthesize nanoparticles using simple methods to precisely control the morphology and size of the nanoparticles in large quantities, and their large‐scale application is limited by high costs and low yields. Herein, a series of high‐entropy oxides (HEOs) nanoparticles with high‐density and ultrasmall size (<5 nm) loaded on carbon nanosheets with large quantities are prepared by Joule‐heating treatment of gel precursors in a short period of time (≈60 s). Among them, the prepared (FeCoNiRuMn)3O4−x catalyst shows the best electrocatalytic activity for oxygen evolution reaction, with low overpotentials (230 mV @10 mA cm−2, 270 mV @100 mA cm−2), small Tafel slope (39.4 mV dec−1), and excellent stability without significant decay at 100 mA cm−2 after 100 h. The excellent performance of (FeCoNiRuMn)3O4−x can be attributed to the synergistic effect of multiple elements and the inherent structural stability of high entropy systems. This study provides a more comprehensive design idea for the preparation of efficient and stable high entropy catalysts.
A comprehensive summary on the enhancement of properties of concrete with recycled polypropylene materials
Authors: Anto J. , Bhuvaneshwari M.
Published: January 2024

The scientific community is currently confronted with critical problems in providing a healthy world for future generations. The study for sustainable plastic recycling methods is difficult for a variety of purposes. Indeed, during the previous century, the widespread usage of plastic materials has resulted in vast amounts of long‐lasting waste that has remained largely unaddressed by effective collection and disposal policies. Packaging materials are responsible for the majority of this waste which also includes polypropylene materials. However, environmental concerns imposed a new trend in the previous decade that brought this research under focus, as seen by the growing number of linked publications. For the recycling of polymeric plastic materials, several chemical and mechanical methodologies have been proposed. Due to the low ultimate tensile strain of concrete, plastic waste fiber materials have been used in concrete in recent times as the reinforced concrete components often function with cracks during the serviceability phase. The bonding strength and stress variation during flexure, toughening effect of a hybrid combination of steel and recycled polypropylene fibers on high‐strength concrete are investigated. Polypropylene's compressive and tensile strength, good dielectric characteristics, and acid and alkali resistance have all been observed in various studies. Hence the current review focus on the past researches on utilization of recycled polypropylene in concrete for the enhancement of its physical and mechanical properties.
An integrated study of water quality in the Ganol River Basin, India: Application of hydro‐chemical, multivariate statistical, and water quality index techniques
Authors: Das Gayatri , Bharali Biswadeep
Published: January 2024

The Ganol River, a vital water source for Meghalaya, India, faces significant environmental degradation due to human activities, primarily the improper disposal of domestic and commercial wastes. This study aims to assess the current water quality of the Ganol River through hydro‐chemical analysis, multivariate statistical methods, and Water Quality Index (WQI) analysis. Over a span of 6 years (2014–2020), monthly water samples were collected from ten source points or stations along the river. The findings revealed that some environmental variables had mean values below the standard limit, while others, notably dissolved oxygen (DO) and turbidity, had higher values. The Pearson correlation coefficients was used to establish the closeness or relationship within and between physico‐chemical characteristics, with some displaying strong positive connections and others showing moderate to negative correlations. The study identified several key environmental contaminants, including conductivity, BOD, COD, TSS, D.O, chloride, TDS, sulphate, hardness, calcium, magnesium, potassium, fecal coliform, and total coliform, based on their highest factor loading values. Such contaminants are significantly impacting aquatic life and the overall ecosystem of the Ganol River. Moreover, the Water Quality Index (WQI) assessment indicated a continuous decline annually in the water quality of the Ganol River. This decline poses a severe threat to the river's sustainability and the well‐being of the communities relying on it for various purposes.
Biome Change in Southern Africa
Authors: Higgins Steven I. , Conradi Timo , Louw Michelle A. , Muhoko Edward , Scheiter Simon , Martens Carola , Hickler Thomas , Wilhelm Ferdinand , Midgley Guy F. , Turpie Jane , Weiss Joshua , Slingsby Jasper A.
Published: January 2024

Biomes are regional to global vegetation formations characterised by their structure and functioning. These formations are thus valuable for both quantifying ecological status at sub-regional spatial scales and defining broad adaptive management strategies. Global changes are altering both the structure and the functioning of biomes globally, and while detecting, monitoring and predicting the outcomes of such changes is challenging in Southern Africa, it provides an opportunity to test biome theory with the goal of guiding management responses and evaluating their effectiveness. Here, we synthesise what is known about recent and expected future biome-level changes from Southern Africa by reviewing progress made using dynamic global vegetation modelling (based on archetypal plant functional types), phytoclime modelling (based on species-defined plant growth forms) and phenome monitoring (based on the seasonal timing of vegetation activity). We furthermore discuss how monitoring of indicator species and indicator plant growth forms could be used to detect and monitor biome-level change in the region. We find that all the analysis methods reviewed here indicate that biome-level change is likely to be underway and to continue, but that the analytical approaches and methods differed substantially in their projections. We conclude that the next phases of research on biome change in the region should focus on reconciling these differences by improving the empirical opportunities for model verification and validation.
Southern Africa Climate Over the Recent Decades: Description, Variability and Trends
Authors: Rouault Mathieu , Dieppois Bastien , Tim Nele , Hünicke Birgit , Zorita Eduardo
Published: January 2024

South of 15°S, southern Africa has a subtropical climate, which is affected by temperate and tropical weather systems and comes under the influence of the Southern Hemisphere high-pressure systems. Most rainfall occurs in austral summer, but the southwest experiences winter rainfall. Much of the precipitation in summer is of convective origin forced by large-scale dynamics. There is a marked diurnal cycle in rainfall in summer. The El Niño Southern Oscillation (ENSO) influences interannual rainfall variability. In austral summer, drought tends to occur during El Niño, while above-normal rainfall conditions tend to follow La Niña. During El Niño, higher than normal atmospheric pressure anomalies, detrimental to rainfall, occur due to changes in the global atmospheric circulation. This also weakens the moisture transport from the Indian Ocean to the continent. The opposite mechanisms happen during La Niña. On top of the variability related to ENSO, the Pacific Ocean also influences the decadal variability of rainfall. Additionally, the Angola Current, the Agulhas Current, the Mozambique Channel and the southwest Indian Ocean affect rainfall variability. Over the last 40 to 60 years, near-surface temperatures have increased over almost the whole region, summer precipitation has increased south of 10°S, and winter precipitation has mostly decreased in South Africa. Meanwhile, the Agulhas Current and the Angola Current have warmed, and the Benguela Current has cooled.
CXCR4 Theranostics: A Potential Game Changer in Solid Tumors and Hematological Malignancies
Authors: Baljinder Singh , Ankit Watts , Shekhawat Amit Singh , Ashwin Singh , Malhotra Pankaj , Waheed Abdul , Harneet Kaur , Nisha Rani , Madan Renu , Arora Sunil , Radotra B. D. , Prasad Vikas , Wester Hans J. , Behera Digambar
Published: January 2024

An overexpression of CXCR4 receptors is reported in at least 30 different human solid tumors and hematological malignancies. This overexpression is often associated with tumor aggressiveness, increased risk of metastasis, and a higher probability of recurrence, which in turn leads to a poor prognosis. No in vivo method suitable for whole-body CXCR4 disease quantification has been described and this unmet clinical need or the scientific question has been reported recently. 68Ga-Pentixafor which is a CXCR4 targeting high-affinity PET imaging probe and the tracer has been evaluated in multiple myeloma, lymphoproliferative disorders, and in lung carcinoma, and the imaging results are extremely promising. Human dosimetry studies demonstrated excellent pharmacokinetics and low radiation burden to patients. The clinical applications of 68Ga-Pentixafor/177Lu/213Bi-Pentixather as a “theranostics pair” for the diagnosis and treatment of CXCR4-expressing cancers are emerging. CXCR4-based theranostics, which had not been investigated in clinical practice till now (except few preliminary proof-of-concept studies), may be a potential game changer both in the diagnosis and treatment of CXCR4 overexpressing solid tumors and hematological malignancies in which all other available treatment options have eventually failed.
Theranostics with Somatostatin Receptor Antagonists
Authors: Wild Damian
Published: January 2024

Somatostatin receptors (SST), especially SST subtype 2 (SST2), are important targets for the management of patients with neuroendocrine tumours (NETs) or neuroendocrine neoplasias (NENs). Peptide receptor radionuclide therapy (PRRT) with 177Lu-labelled SST agonists, for example, 177Lu-DOTA-TOC or 177Lu-DOTA-TATE, is recommended by the European Neuroendocrine Tumour Society as second-line treatment after progression under treatment with somatostatin analogues in patients with metastatic, SST positive grade 1 and 2 midgut NETs. PET/CT imaging with 68Ga-labelled SST agonists, for example, 68Ga-DOTA-TOC or 68Ga-DOTA-TATE, plays an important role in staging and restaging NETs. Furthermore, SST PET/CT can identify those patients with highly 68Ga-DOTA-TOC or 68Ga-DOTA-TATE avid tumours. These are the patients who will benefit from PRRT. As a result, SST PET/CT can predict the treatment efficacy of 177Lu-DOTA-TOC or 177Lu-DOTA-TATE. This allows a personalized treatment approach, also called a therapeutic/diagnostic approach = theranostic approach. Until recently, it was thought that internalisation of the radiolabelled agonist was mandatory for SST-mediated imaging and therapy. It was Ginj et al. who proposed in 2006 the paradigm shift that radiolabelled SST antagonists may perform better than agonists despite lacking internalisation. In this chapter, the preclinical and clinical development, current status and possible future developments of radiolabelled SST antagonists are discussed.
IAEA Strategy for Enhancing the Sustainability of Nuclear Medicine in Low- and Middle-Income Countries
Authors: Giammarile Francesco , Orellana Pilar , Paez Diana
Published: January 2024

The incidence and mortality associated with non-communicable diseases (NCDs) is on the rise globally. There has been a significant shift in the global disease burden in the past decades from communicable infectious diseases to non-communicable diseases, especially evident in low- and middle-income countries (LMICs). According to the World Health Organization (WHO), more than 38 million people die each year as a consequence of NCDs. It is expected that in the next 25 years the majority of new NCD cases and associated deaths will occur in LMICs. The increase in NCDs is related to several factors, including population growth, increased life expectancy and changes in lifestyle. The most frequent NCDs are cardiovascular diseases, cancer, chronic respiratory diseases and diabetes.
Implementation of Circular Economy Between Mining and Construction Sectors: A Promising Route to Achieve Sustainable Development Goals
Authors: El Machi Aiman , Hakkou Rachid
Published: January 2024

The mining sector is the largest solid waste producer in the world. Mining, mineral processing, and metallurgical activities generate more than 100 billion tons of waste per year in several forms. However, the current management of mine waste is still based on a linear system through its storage and landfilling. At the same time, growth of urbanization and industrialization induces the consumption of natural resources for building engineering in many countries. In this regard, the high demand for raw materials in the construction industry is becoming a worldwide issue. In order to tackle those challenges presented by the mining sector and the depletion of natural resources, innovative concepts are being developed. The circular economy concept is very beneficial, where mine waste can be considered as new raw materials for other applications, which will contribute not only to the reduction of natural resource consumption but also to the reduction of CO2 emissions. This chapter sheds light on the implementation of the circular economy concept with regard to the impact toward sustainable development goals, supported by examples of actual experiences around the world. Moreover, the importance of technical advances and the legislative aspect is discussed in order to underline its contribution to sustainable development.
Spectral flow of vortex shape modes over the BPS 2-vortex moduli space
Authors: Izquierdo A. Alonso , Fuertes W. Garcia , Manton N. S. , Guilarte J. Mateos
Published: January 2024

Abstract

The flow of shape eigenmodes of the small fluctuation operator around BPS 2-vortex solutions is calculated, as a function of the intervortex separation 2d. For the rotationally-invariant 2-vortex, with d = 0, there are three discrete modes; the lowest is non-degenerate and the upper two are degenerate. As d increases, the degeneracy splits, with one eigenvalue increasing and entering the continuous spectrum, and the other decreasing and asymptotically coalescing with the lowest eigenvalue, where they jointly become the eigenvalue of the 1-vortex radial shape mode. The behaviour of the eigenvalues near d = 0 is clarified using a perturbative analysis, and also in light of the 2-vortex moduli space geometry.
Initial-final and initial-initial antenna functions for real radiation at next-to-leading order
Authors: Fox Elliot , Glover Nigel
Published: January 2024

Abstract

The antenna subtraction method has achieved remarkable success in various processes relevant to the Large Hadron Collider. In Reference [1], an algorithm was proposed for constructing real-radiation antenna functions for electron-positron annihilation, directly from specified unresolved limits, accommodating any number of real emissions. Here, we extend this algorithm to build antennae involving partons in the initial state, specifically the initial-final and initial-initial antennae. Using this extended algorithm, we explicitly construct all NLO QCD antenna functions and compare them with previously extracted antenna functions derived from matrix elements. Additionally, we rigorously match the integration of the antenna functions over the initial-final and initial-initial unresolved phase space with the previous approach, providing an independent validation of our results. The improved antenna functions are more compact and reduced in number, making them more readily applicable for higher-order calculations.
NLO corrections to the deeply virtual meson production revisited: impact on the extraction of generalized parton distributions
Authors: Čuić Marija , Duplančić Goran , Kumerički Krešimir , Passek-K Kornelija
Published: January 2024

Abstract

We revisit the next-to-leading order (NLO) perturbative QCD corrections for the deeply virtual meson production (DVMP) process, exploring its phenomenology both in isolation and in a multichannel fit combined with deeply virtual Compton scattering (DVCS). Our approach involves the conformal partial wave (CPaW) formalism, which allows for the straightforward inclusion of higher-order contributions and evolutionary effects. Our findings indicate that a description of the longitudinal component of the vector meson DVMP cross-section at high energies is achievable only at NLO within the standard collinear approach. Furthermore, we demonstrate a simultaneous description of DIS, DVCS, and DVMP processes, providing insights into the proton structure described at NLO by unique universal generalized parton distribution (GPD) functions.
Äußere Wendung – Chancen und Risiken
Authors: Bossung Verena , Andermatt Michelle
Published: January 2024

Die äußere Wendung ist ein risikoarmes geburtshilfliches Manöver, bei dem der Fet manuell von einer Beckenend- oder Querlage in eine Schädellage gedreht wird. Sie wird in der Regel am wehenfreien Uterus 3–4 Wochen vor dem Entbindungstermin durchgeführt. Die Erfolgsrate variiert in der Literatur und liegt bei etwa 50 %. Sie wird von verschiedenen maternalen und fetalen Faktoren beeinflusst. Eine Wendung sollte bei Fehlen von Kontraindikationen jeder Schwangeren mit fetaler Beckenend- bzw. Querlage angeboten werden, um die Rate an vaginalen Geburten aus Schädellage zu steigern, Kaiserschnitte zu verhindern und damit die perinatale Morbidität und Mortalität zu senken. Die durchschnittliche Komplikationsrate beträgt 6 %, am häufigsten treten vorübergehende Auffälligkeiten der fetalen Herzfrequenz auf. Schwere Komplikationen sind selten. Eine äußere Wendung wird von den meisten Frauen gut toleriert. Tokolytika und analgetische Maßnahmen können unterstützend eingesetzt werden.
Understanding users’ responses to disclosed vs. undisclosed customer service chatbots: a mixed methods study
Authors: van der Goot Margot J. , Koubayová Nathalie , van Reijmersdal Eva A.
Published: January 2024

Due to huge advancements in natural language processing (NLP) and machine learning, chatbots are gaining significance in the field of customer service. For users, it may be hard to distinguish whether they are communicating with a human or a chatbot. This brings ethical issues, as users have the right to know who or what they are interacting with (European Commission in Regulatory framework proposal on artificial intelligence. https://digital-strategy.ec.europa.eu/en/policies/regulatory-framework-ai, 2022). One of the solutions is to include a disclosure at the start of the interaction (e.g., “this is a chatbot”). However, companies are reluctant to use disclosures, as consumers may perceive artificial agents as less knowledgeable and empathetic than their human counterparts (Luo et al. in Market Sci 38(6):937–947, 2019). The current mixed methods study, combining qualitative interviews (n = 8) and a quantitative experiment (n = 194), delves into users’ responses to a disclosed vs. undisclosed customer service chatbot, focusing on source orientation, anthropomorphism, and social presence. The qualitative interviews reveal that it is the willingness to help the customer and the friendly tone of voice that matters to the users, regardless of the artificial status of the customer care representative. The experiment did not show significant effects of the disclosure (vs. non-disclosure). Implications for research, legislators and businesses are discussed.