bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Agronomic performance and technological quality of sugarcane submitted to different poultry litter dosages
Authors: Pires Willian Marques , Teixeira Marconi Batista , Soares Frederico Antônio Loureiro , Morais Wilker Alves , Costa Adriano Carvalho , Filho Luiz César Lopes , de Moura Jadson Belem
Published: July 2024

Sugarcane is a central crop for sugar and ethanol production. Investing in sustainable practices can enhance productivity, technological quality, mitigate impacts, and contribute to a cleaner energy future. Among the factors that help increase the productivity of sugarcane, the physical, chemical and biological parameters of the soil are amongst the most important. The use of poultry litter has been an important alternative for soil improvement, as it acts as a soil conditioner. Therefore, this work aimed to verify the best doses of poultry litter for the vegetative, reproductive and technological components of sugarcane. The experiment was carried out at Usina Denusa Destilaria Nova União S/A in the municipality of Jandaia, GO. The experimental design used was a complete randomized block design with four replications: 5 × 4, totaling 20 experimental units. The evaluated factor consisted of four doses of poultry litter plus the control (0 (control), 2, 4, 6 and 8 t ha−1). In this study, were evaluated the number of tillers, lower stem diameter, average stem diameter, upper stem diameter, plant height, stem weight and productivity. The technological variables of total recoverable sugar, recoverable sugar, Brix, fiber, purity and percentage of oligosaccharides were also evaluated. It was observed, within the conditions of this experiment, that the insertion of poultry litter did not interfere significantly in most biometric, productive and technological variables of the sugarcane. But it can also be inferred that there was a statistical trend toward better results when the sugarcane was cultivated with 4 t ha-1 of poultry litter.
Clotrimazole inhibits growth of multiple myeloma cells in vitro via G0/G1 arrest and mitochondrial apoptosis
Authors: Song Yang , Zhang Hui , Geng Jie , Chen Haoran , Bo Yang , Lu Xuechun
Published: July 2024

Patients with multiple myeloma (MM) experience relapse and drug resistance; therefore, novel treatments are essential. Clotrimazole (CTZ) is a wide-spectrum antifungal drug with antitumor activity. However, CTZ’s effects on MM are unclear. We investigated CTZ’s effect on MM cell proliferation and apoptosis induction mechanisms. CTZ’s effects on MM.1S, NCI- H929, KMS-11, and U266 cell growth were investigated using Cell Counting Kit-8 (CCK-8) assay. The apoptotic cell percentage was quantified with annexin V-fluorescein isothiocyanate/7-amino actinomycin D staining. Mitochondrial membrane potential (MMP) and cell cycle progression were evaluated. Reactive oxygen species (ROS) levels were measured via fluorescence microscopy. Expression of apoptosis-related and nuclear factor (NF)-κB signaling proteins was analyzed using western blotting. The CCK-8 assay indicated that CTZ inhibited cell proliferation based on both dose and exposure time. Flow cytometry revealed that CTZ decreased apoptosis and MMP and induced G0/G1 arrest. Immunofluorescence demonstrated that CTZ dose-dependently elevated in both total and mitochondrial ROS production. Western blotting showed that CTZ enhanced Bax and cleaved poly ADP-ribose polymerase and caspase-3 while decreasing Bcl-2, p-p65, and p-IκBα. Therefore, CTZ inhibits MM cell proliferation by promoting ROS-mediated mitochondrial apoptosis, inducing G0/G1 arrest, inhibiting the NF-κB pathway, and has the potential for treating MM.
Study on methane degradation by microbial agents based on chelating wetting agent carriers
Authors: Han Yumiao , Xu Lianman , Zhang Runjie , Lv Jin , Yang Fengshuo , Ma Chen
Published: July 2024

Due to the low permeability characteristics of the deep gas-containing coal seam, the conventional prevention and control measures that cannot solve the problems of gas outbursts are unsatisfactory for the prevention and control of the coal and gas outbursts disaster. Therefore, in this study, a strain of methane-oxidizing bacteria M07 with high-pressure resistance, strong resistance, and high methane degradation rate was selected from coal mines. The growth and degradation abilities of M07 in chelating wetting agent solutions to assess its adaptability and find the optimal agent-to-M07 ratio. It provides a new method for integrating the reduction of impact tendency and gas pressure in deep coal mines. The experimental results show that M07 is a Gram-positive bacterium of the genus Bacillus, which has strong resistance and adaptability to high-pressure water injection. By degrading 70 mol of methane, M07 produces 1 mol of carbon dioxide, which can reduce gas pressure and reduce the risk of gas outbursts in coal mines. As the experiment proves, the best effect was achieved when the M07 concentration of the chelating wetting agent was 0.05%. The methane-oxidizing bacteria based on the chelating wetting agent as carriers prove a new prevention and control method for the integrated prevention and control of coal and gas outbursts in coal mines and also provide a new idea for microbial application in coal mine disaster control.
Influence of knot strength on the mechanical performance of a biodegradable gillnet
Authors: Le Gué Louis , Savina Esther , Arhant Mael , Davies Peter , Dumergue Nicolas , Vincent Benoit
Published: July 2024

Ghost fishing is a global issue that can be addressed using fishing gear materials that do not persist in the marine environment. However, for these alternatives to be widely adopted, they must meet the same mechanical specifications as current commercial materials while degrading without any negative impact. The objective of this study was to compare a conventional gillnet made of polyamide 6 (PA6) with an alternative made of poly(butylene succinate-co-adipate-co-terephthalate) (PBSAT) at three different scales: monofilament, knot, and net. While the PBSAT monofilament’s strength was half that of the conventional PA6 net, knot and net losses were even more significant. This indicates a greater sensitivity of the material to the knot. Since the results between the knot and net scales were coherent, testing whole net panels is not necessary. Studying the curvature and the behaviour of the knot revealed its complex geometry and mechanical behaviour. Testing the weaver’s knot is a good indicator for studying the relevance of an alternative to conventional fishing gear materials. This should be considered when developing biodegradable nets in order to reduce ghost fishing at sea.
Device modeling of high performance and eco-friendly $${\text {FAMASnI}}_{3}$$ based perovskite solar cell
Authors: Alipour Alireza , Alipour Hossein
Published: July 2024

Developing environmentally friendly and highly efficient inverted perovskite solar cells (PSCs) encounters significant challenges, specifically the potential toxicity and degradation of thin films in hybrid organic-inorganic photovoltaics (PV). We employed theoretical design strategies that produce hysteresis-reduced, efficient, and stable PSCs based on composition and interface engineering. The devices include a mixed-organic-cation perovskite formamidinium methylammonium tin iodide ($${\text {FAMASnI}}_{3}$$

FAMASnI
3

) as an absorber layer and zinc oxide (ZnO) together with a passivation film phenyl-C61-butyric acid methyl ester ($${\text {PC}}_{61}\text {BM}$$

PC
61

BM

) as a double-electron transport layer (DETL). Furthermore, a nickel oxide (NiO) layer and a trap-free junction copper iodide (CuI) are used as a double-hole transport layer (DHTL). The optoelectronic characterization measurements were carried out to understand the physical mechanisms that govern the operation of the devices. The high power conversion efficiencies (PCEs) of 24.27% and 23.50% were achieved in 1D and 2D simulations, respectively. This study illustrates that composition and interface engineering enable eco-friendly perovskite solar cells, improving performance and advancing clean energy.
A solid state electrolyte based enzymatic acetone sensor
Authors: Obeidat Yusra M. , Bany Hamad Nour , Rawashdeh Abdel Monem
Published: July 2024

This paper introduces a novel solid-state electrolyte-based enzymatic sensor designed for the detection of acetone, along with an examination of its performance under various surface modifications aimed at optimizing its sensing capabilities. To measure acetone concentrations in both liquid and vapor states, cyclic voltammetry and amperometry techniques were employed, utilizing disposable screen-printed electrodes consisting of a platinum working electrode, a platinum counter electrode, and a silver reference electrode. Four different surface modifications, involving different combinations of Nafion (N) and enzyme (E) layers (N + E; N + E + N; N + N + E; N + N + E + N), were tested to identify the most effective configuration for a sensor that can be used for breath acetone detection. The sensor's essential characteristics, including linearity, sensitivity, reproducibility, and limit of detection, were thoroughly evaluated through a range of experiments spanning concentrations from 1 µM to 25 mM. Changes in acetone concentration were monitored by comparing currents readings at different acetone concentrations. The sensor exhibited high sensitivity, and a linear response to acetone concentration in both liquid and gas phases within the specified concentration range, with correlation coefficients ranging from 0.92 to 0.98. Furthermore, the sensor achieved a rapid response time of 30–50 s and an impressive detection limit as low as 0.03 µM. The results indicated that the sensor exhibited the best linearity, sensitivity, and limit of detection when four layers were employed (N + N + E + N).
Poleward migration of tropical cyclones over the western North Pacific in the CMIP6-HighResMIP models constrained by observations
Authors: Li Zhuoying , Zhou Wen
Published: July 2024

Tropical cyclones (TCs) have experienced poleward migration in recent years, but whether this exists in future projections with high-resolution climate models remains unclear. This study investigates the poleward migration of TCs over the western North Pacific (WNP) using CMIP6-HighResMIP models. We first assess the model performance in TC genesis frequency and latitude, which differ greatly from the observations, especially in winter and spring due to misinterpretation of extratropical storms. In this study, we put forward a revised constrained detection method based on the sea surface temperature (SST) and the atmospheric conditions to resolve this bias. Results indicate that the revised detection method has good performance in capturing the annual cycle of TC genesis frequency and latitude. Future projections constrained by this method show that the latitude of TC genesis and lifetime maximum intensity (LMI) both undergo a poleward shift, with the former being more significant. Spatial changes in the dynamic potential genesis index and large-scale environment could explain this shift. The regional changes of Hadley circulation and the role of global warming and internal variability are also discussed.
Emergence of quantum Griffiths singularity in disordered TiN thin films
Authors: Yadav Sachin , Saravanan M. P. , Sahoo Sangeeta
Published: July 2024

The association of quantum Griffiths singularity (QGS) to the magnetic-field-induced superconductor-metal transition predicts the unconventional diverging behaviour of dynamical critical exponent in low disorder crystalline two-dimensional superconductors. But whether this state exists in the superconducting systems exhibiting superconductor-insulator transition remains elusive. Here, we report the emergence of quantum Griffiths singularity in ultrathin disordered TiN thin films with more than two orders of magnitude variation in their normal state resistance. For both superconductor-metal transition and superconductor-insulator transition types, a diverging critical exponent is observed while approaching the quantum phase transition. Further, the magnetoresistance isotherms obey a direct activated scaling governed by an infinite-randomness fixed critical point. Finally, this work establishes the robustness of the QGS phenomenon towards a wide range of temperature and also towards a wide range of disorder strength as correlated with the normal state resistance.
Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy with undetected photons from high-gain spontaneous parametric down-conversion
Authors: Hashimoto Kazuki , Horoshko Dmitri B. , Kolobov Mikhail I. , Michael Yoad , Gefen Ziv , Chekhova Maria V.
Published: July 2024

Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR) is an indispensable analytical method that allows label-free identification of substances via fundamental molecular vibrations. However, traditional FTIR spectrometers require mid-infrared (MIR) elements, including low-efficiency MIR photodetectors. SU(1,1) interferometry has previously enabled FTIR with undetected MIR photons via spontaneous parametric down-conversion in the low-parametric-gain regime, where the number of photons per mode is much less than one and sensitive photodetectors are needed. In this work, we develop a high-parametric-gain SU(1,1) interferometer for MIR-range FTIR with undetected photons. Using our method, we demonstrate three major advantages: a high photon number at the interferometer output, a considerably lower photon number at the sample, and improved interference contrast. In addition, we broaden the spectral range of the interferometer by aperiodic poling in the gain medium. Exploiting the broadband SU(1,1) interferometer, we measure and evaluate the MIR absorption spectra of polymers in the 3-μm region.
Revolutionizing Women’s health: the quest for materials for next-generation, non-hormonal intrauterine devices
Authors: Bunting Jacob John Maclean , Leung Zuleika Chin Lai , Boboc Bianca , Betts Dean Harvey , Gilroy Joe B. , Oinonen Kirsten , Choi Kate , Chambers Lori , Rafea Basim Abu , Gateman Samantha Michelle
Published: July 2024

With over 200 million users worldwide, copper intrauterine devices (Cu-IUDs) are the world’s most popular, non-hormonal, long-acting, and reversible contraception method. Cu-IUDs cause uncomfortable side effects such as longer and heavier menstruation and cramping, all of which persist for the duration of use and often lead to early removal. With the rise in concern about potential physical and psychological side effects from hormonal contraceptive use, an improvement in non-hormonal contraceptive options is needed to alleviate discomforting side effects and inhibit costs. This perspective article provides an overview of the current state of non-hormonal IUDs and experimental factors to consider when developing new materials that have potential as alternative contraceptives, including copper alloys, zinc, iron, and passive metals. It also explores the sustainability and socioeconomic impact of advancing non-hormonal contraceptive options and considers international policy, cultural factors, and costs that must be considered when developing these options. Overall, the article highlights the interdisciplinary nature of this field, the complexities involved in creating effective non-hormonal contraceptives, and the need for innovation and equity in contraceptive care.
Direct potentiometric bicarbonate/carbon dioxide sensing based on polymeric membranes doped with selective meso-bisubstituted calix[4]pyrrole ionophores
Authors: Xiong Kesi , Liu Haitao , Du Fanglin , Li Long , Qian Yi
Published: July 2024

We evaluated in this work the properties of a promising class of HCO3− ionophores, which have not been recognized previously.
A neutral diphosphene radical: synthesis, electronic structure and white phosphorus activation
Authors: Haberstroh Jan , Taube Clemens , Fidelius Jannis , Schulz Stephen , Israel Noel , Dmitrieva Evgenia , Gomila Rosa M. , Frontera Antonio , Wolf Robert , Schwedtmann Kai , Weigand Jan J.
Published: July 2024

The mixed-substituted diphosphene radical has been isolated and characterised. Upon reaction with white phosphorus, the compound forms an octaphosphane.
Alkali metal reduction of crown ether encapsulated alkali metal cations
Authors: Pearce Kyle G. , Neale Samuel E. , Mahon Mary F. , McMullin Claire L. , Hill Michael S.
Published: July 2024

[{SiNDipp}BeClM]2 ({SiNDipp} = {CH2SiMe2N(Dipp)}2; M = Li, Na, K, Rb) are converted to ionic species by treatment with a crown ether. The lithium derivative of 12-cr-4 reacts with Na or K to provide [{SiNDipp}BeCl]−[M(12-cr-4)2]+ (M = Na, K).
Methionine-enabled peptide modification through late-stage Pd-catalyzed β-C(sp3)–H olefination/cyclization
Authors: Lu Fengjie , Zhang Xinyi , Geng Yujie , Wang Huihui , Tang Jian
Published: July 2024

We present a method for site-selective diversification of peptides via Pd-catalyzed β-C(sp3)–H olefination/cyclization.
Ternary recognition fluorescent probe for lysosome acidification counter-ion studies via Cl−, K+, and pH
Authors: Zou Guang-Yue , Bi Fan , Chen Shuai , Liu Meng-Xian , Yu Yong-Liang
Published: July 2024

A lysosome targeting ternary recognition fluorescent probe for lysosome acidification counter-ion studies via Cl−, K+, and pH.
Crystal engineering of monometallic lanthanide(iii) supramolecular systems within the N3-tridentate hydrazone Schiff-base ligand
Authors: Prętka Dominika , Marcinkowski Dawid , Siwiak Agnieszka , Kubicki Maciej , Consiglio Giuseppe , Patroniak Violetta , Gorczyński Adam
Published: July 2024

Crystal engineering aspects within the tridentate N-heterocyclic coordination architectures of Ln(iii) ions.
Optimising thermochemical energy storage: a comprehensive analysis of CaCO3 composites with CaSiO3, CaTiO3, and CaZrO3
Authors: Humphries Terry D. , Vieira Adriana P. , Liu Yurong , McCabe Eleanor , Paskevicius Mark , Buckley Craig E.
Published: July 2024

Development of high temperature thermal energy storage materials with high CO2 cyclability from abundant materials.
A first principles study of the electronic structure and optical response of heterobimetallic M–dicyanoaurate-based coordination polymers (M = Mn, Co, Ni, Zn and Cd)
Authors: Mojica R. , Vázquez M. C. , Torres A. E. , Avila Y. , Borja-Urby R. , Rodríguez-Hernández J. , Reguera E.
Published: July 2024

The electronic structure and optical response of five metal–dicyanoaurates(i), (K)M[Au(CN)2] (M = Mn, Co, Ni, Zn and Cd), are described from a combined experimental and theoretical study
Microwave spectroscopic and computational analyses of the phenylacetylene⋯methanol complex: insights into intermolecular interactions
Authors: Gupta Surabhi , Cummings Charlotte N. , Walker Nicholas R. , Arunan Elangannan
Published: July 2024

The microwave spectra of five isotopologues of phenylacetylene⋯methanol complex, C6H5CCH⋯CH3OH, C6H5CCH⋯CH3OD, C6H5CCH⋯CD3OD, C6H5CCD⋯CH3OH and C6H5CCH⋯13CH3OH, have been observed through Fourier transform microwave spectroscopy.
A CFD study on the effect of portable air cleaner placement on airborne infection control in a classroom
Authors: Pei Gen , Azimi Parham , Rim Donghyun , Allen Joseph G.
Published: July 2024

This study provides science-based information for optimizing the implementation of portable air cleaners to mitigate airborne infections in classrooms.
Advanced algorithm for step detection in single-entity electrochemistry: a comparative study of wavelet transforms and convolutional neural networks
Authors: Zhao Ziwen , Naha Arunava , Kostopoulos Nikolaos , Sekretareva Alina
Published: July 2024

In this study, two approaches for step detection in single-entity electrochemistry data are developed and compared: discrete wavelet transforms and convolutional neural networks.
Visible-light-induced hydroxycarboxylation of α-trifluoromethylstyrenes to construct densely functionalized α-CF3 tertiary alcohols
Authors: Lu Min-Ming , Deng Ning , Li Shi-Yu , Tong Ren-Jie , Xu Jun , Xu Hua-Jian
Published: July 2024

Visible-light-induced hydroxycarboxylation of α-trifluoromethylstyrenes under an air atmosphere was developed to construct densely functionalized α-CF3 tertiary alcohols.
Towards the best total consumption infrared-heated sample introduction system for nanoparticle measurement using single particle inductively coupled plasma mass spectrometry
Authors: Zhou Zichao , Burgener Mirah J. , Burgener John , Beauchemin Diane
Published: July 2024

A compact infrared-heated sample introduction system allows total consumption, thereby allowing the analysis of nanoparticles without measurement of transport efficiency.
High defect tolerance β-CsSnI3 perovskite light-emitting diodes
Authors: Yu Haixuan , Zhang Tao , Zhang Zhiguo , Liu Zhirong , Sun Qiang , Huang Junyi , Dai Letian , Shen Yan , Li Xiongjie , Wang Mingkui
Published: July 2024

Stabilizing β-CsSnI3 at room temperature by crystal-phase engineering provides a novel and fundamental perspective to enhance the near-infrared emission of black-phase CsSnI3 perovskites.
Polyimide as a biomedical material: advantages and applications
Authors: Shu Junjie , Zhou Zhongfu , Liang Huaping , Yang Xia
Published: July 2024

Polyimides (PIs) are a class of polymers characterized by strong covalent bonds, which offer the advantages of high thermal weight, low weight, good electronic properties and superior mechanical properties.
γ-Hydroxy-γ-butyrolactams as 1,2-bis-electrophiles in a Brønsted/Lewis acid-free synthesis of condensed nitrogen heterocycles
Authors: Aksenov Nicolai A. , Kurenkov Igor A. , Arutiunov Nikolai A. , Malyuga Vladimir V. , Aksenov Dmitrii A. , Leontiev Alexander V. , Aksenov Alexander V.
Published: July 2024

Here, we describe the one-pot assembly of imidazo[1,2-a]pyridine and quinoxaline heterocyclic cores by the electrophilic tandem cyclization between 3,5-diaryl substituted 5-hydroxy-3-pyrrolin-2-ones and the corresponding nitrogen bis-nucleophiles.
Feasibility of multiple excited-state proton transfer processes in hydroxyquinoline-containing benzobisimidazole dyes
Authors: Munteanu Tatiana , Yordanov Dancho , Canard Gabriel , Siri Olivier , Jacquemin Denis , Georgiev Anton , Pascal Simon
Published: July 2024

Two new benzobisimidazole platforms incorporating 7-hydroxyquinoline moieties were synthesized and characterized to explore potential multiple proton transfer processes.
A fully biobased tough hydrogel derived from guar gum and gelatin as a flexible sensor
Authors: Wei Zixuan , Zhou Hongxin , Meng Yingying , Wu Ting , Li Junjie , Wei Yuping
Published: July 2024

A fully natural polymer-based tough DN hydrogel (stretchability of 497%, stress of 0.44 MPa) was prepared using oxidized hydroxypropyl guar gum and gelatin though dynamic Schiff base bonds.
Determining the orderliness of carbon materials with nanoparticle imaging and explainable machine learning
Authors: Kurbakov Mikhail Yu. , Sulimova Valentina V. , Kopylov Andrei V. , Seredin Oleg S. , Boiko Daniil A. , Galushko Alexey S. , Cherepanova Vera A. , Ananikov Valentine P.
Published: July 2024

We propose a set of features for the ordered arrangement of palladium nanoparticles that are consistent with the intuitive understanding of researchers and allow quantification of the data in terms of easily interpretable physical parameters.
Understanding magnetic hyperthermia performance within the “Brezovich criterion”: beyond the uniaxial anisotropy description
Authors: Faílde Daniel , Ocampo-Zalvide Victor , Serantes David , Iglesias Òscar
Published: July 2024

Our study shows that intrinsic magnetocrystalline anisotropy plays a critical role in magnetic hyperthermia. Results indicate that even small deviations from spherical shape have an important impact on optimizing SLP.
A bifunctional Pasteurella multocida β1–3-galactosyl/N-acetylgalactosaminyltransferase (PmNatB) for the highly efficient chemoenzymatic synthesis of disaccharides
Authors: Yang Xiaohong , Mishra Bijoyananda , Yu Hai , Wei Yijun , Chen Xi
Published: July 2024

A single-catalytic-domain bifunctional bacterial β1–3-galactosyl and β1–3-N-acetylgalactosaminyltransferase PmNatB has been characterized and used for the efficient one-pot multienzyme (OPME) chemoenzymatic synthesis of diverse disaccharides.
Unexpected diselenide metathesis in selenocysteine-substituted biologically active peptides
Authors: He Ying , Takei Toshiki , Moroder Luis , Hojo Hironobu
Published: July 2024

Substitution of disulfide bonds with a diselenide bonds in peptides and proteins is an often-used strategy to increase the stability of naturally occurring peptides and proteins.
Hexacyclotetradecenes as polycyclic fused exo-norbornene monomers: synthesis of cyclic olefin copolymers via Ti-catalyzed controlled polymerization
Authors: Funahashi Eri , Iwata Yusuke , Matsuoka Shin-ichi
Published: July 2024

An isomeric mixture of hexacyclotetradecenes was (co)polymerized (with 1-octene) using a Ti complex catalyst to produce new cyclic olefin copolymers.
Preparation of a flame-retardant waterborne polyurethane with core–shell structure and its application in a fire-resistant microfiber synthetic leather
Authors: Yin Yingting , Li Wei , Yao Jinbo , Niu Jiarong
Published: July 2024

Flame retardant waterborne polyurethane with core-shell structure was synthesized by encapsulating hexaphenoxycyclophosphazene with WPU, and applied to the preparation of flame retardant ultrafine fiber synthetic leather using a two-step method.
Photocatalyzed dehalogenative deuteration with silacarboxylic acids as halogen-atom transfer agents
Authors: Hu Jia-Wei , Cao Jian , Xu Li-Wen
Published: July 2024

A visible light-induced organophotocatalytic strategy for dehalogenative deuteration of a wide variety of primary, secondary, and tertiary alkyl bromides is reported.
Plugging performance and mechanism of an OBDF oil-absorbing resin (MMA-SMA-St) plugging agent
Authors: Bai Yang , He Jianing , Sun Jinsheng , Wang Ren , Wang Ruifang
Published: July 2024

The innovation of this article lies in providing an oil absorbing resin plugging agent with good plugging effect.
Drug repositioning identifies salvinorin A and deacetylgedunin (DCG) enriched plant extracts as novel inhibitors of Mpro, RBD–ACE2 and TMPRRS2 proteins
Authors: Shayo Mariana J. , Samwel Baraka , Shadrack Daniel M. , Cassel Joel , Salvino Joseph M. , Montaner Luis J. , Deogratias Geradius , Tietjen Ian , Kiruri Lucy , Hilonga Samson , Innocent Ester
Published: July 2024

The coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) has spread worldwide with severe health, social, and economic repercussions.
An efficient alternative to DBU in the oxathiaphospholane (OTP) method for the solid phase synthesis of P-stereodefined phosphorothioate analogs
Authors: Jastrzębska Katarzyna
Published: July 2024

OTP method for the synthesis of P-stereodefined phosphorothioate has been extended to use activators TBD and Verkade base, which can be used interchangeably with DBU.
Synthesis, DFT studies on a series of tunable quinoline derivatives
Authors: Chavan Nagesh Dhanaji , Vijayakumar Vijayaparthasarathi
Published: July 2024

The synthesis, Density Functional Theory (DFT) calculations, and photo physical characteristics of a range of quinoline derivatives have been described in the present work.
Amorphous aggregates with a very wide size distribution play a central role in crystal nucleation
Authors: Liao Zhiyu , Das Ankita , Robb Christina Glen , Beveridge Rebecca , Wynne Klaas
Published: July 2024

There is mounting evidence that crystal nucleation from supersaturated solution involves the formation and reorganization of prenucleation clusters, contradicting classical nucleation theory.
Confined semiconducting polymers with boosted NIR light-triggered H2O2 production for hypoxia-tolerant persistent photodynamic therapy
Authors: Lu Feng , Li Lili , Zhang Meng , Yu Chengwu , Pan Yonghui , Cheng Fangfang , Hu Wenbo , Lu Xiaomei , Wang Qi , Fan Quli
Published: July 2024

A mesoporous silica encapsulated semiconducting polymer with long-lived excited states and enhanced H2O2 photo-production ability was combined with ferrous ions for hypoxia-tolerant persistent phototheranostics.
Unified ionic and radical C-4 alkylation and arylation of pyridines
Authors: Shi Qiu , Huang Xiaofeng , Yang Ruizhi , Liu Wenbo H.
Published: July 2024

A practical and general C-4 functionalization strategy of unbiased pyridines is developed by identifying a readily synthesized substituted urea as the pyridine activation reagent.
A simple approach to produce hydrophobic biobased coatings using methylcellulose and organosolv lignin
Authors: Mobredi Kourosh , Miranda-Valdez Isaac Y. , Mäkinen Tero , Koivisto Juha , Alava Mikko J.
Published: July 2024

By utilizing a particular method, organosolv lignin was used to produce biobased coatings that demonstrated water-resistant properties with water contact angles greater than 90°.
Necking of thin-walled cylinders via bifurcation of incompressible nonlinear elastic solids
Authors: Springhetti Roberta , Rossetto Gabriel , Bigoni Davide
Published: July 2024

Soft polypropylene thin-walled tubes (right) after tensile tests (center) showing multiple necking, modelled as a bifurcation for J2-deformation theory of plasticity material (bifurcation modes on the left) by R. Springhetti, M. Scandella, D. Bigoni.
N vacancies modulated Zn single atoms for efficient H2O2 photosynthesis
Authors: Xie Wenke , Liu Junyu , Liu Xuan-He
Published: July 2024

The adjacent N vacancies increase the electron density of Zn–N4 and enhance the separation and migration of electron–hole pairs. The optimized sample exhibits a H2O2 yield, 3.2 times higher than CN.
Occupational Stress in United Kingdom Audiologists
Authors: Phillips Ryan S. , Saunders Gabrielle H.
Published: July 2024

Purpose:

Occupational stress is known to have detrimental effects on health care professionals worldwide. This study aimed to address a research gap by investigating sources and levels of occupational stress in U.K. audiologists.

Method:

A mixed-methods cross-sectional design and convenience sampling were utilized. The study used the Audiologist Occupational Stress Questionnaire (AOSQ) and an audiological working practices questionnaire. The study included 100 registered U.K. audiologists.

Results:

The research revealed that over a third of participants reported experiencing moderate or higher levels of occupational stress. Pediatric audiologists and those with a high daily patient load reported significantly higher stress scores than other specialties and those seeing fewer patients per day. Identified sources of stress for U.K. audiologists included clinical demands and time constraints, staffing issues, leadership in the workplace, and equipment availability. Reported impacts of stress encompassed mental health issues, fatigue, social life disruptions, and physical health concerns.

Conclusions:

The research validated the use of the AOSQ in a U.K. setting, and the findings provided insights into the sources and levels of occupational stress experienced by U.K. audiologists, supporting existing research on occupational stress in audiologists in other countries. The identification of consistent stress themes across the literature underscores the need for targeted support and interventions to ensure the well-being of audiologists and empower them in maintaining their pivotal role in health care.
The Effects of Virtual Resilience-Based Clinical Supervision on Burnout in Medical Speech-Language Pathologists
Authors: Caron Hannah , Heape Amber , Williams Kathryn
Published: July 2024

Purpose:

Resilience-based clinical supervision (RBCS) is a program that reduces occupational stress and burnout symptoms in health care professionals. Research has not yet evaluated the program with medical speech-language pathologists (SLPs) or with an online delivery model. This investigation used virtual RBCS to address burnout in medical SLPs during the COVID-19 pandemic.

Method:

Six medical SLPs participated in this combination quasi-experimental study with a baseline and intervention phase single-subject and pretest–posttest design. RBCS was held over Zoom twice a week for eight total sessions. Exercises included brief mindfulness meditations, emotional labeling, and reflective discussions on the underlying sources of stress. An adapted four-question version of the Oldenburg Burnout Inventory (OLBI) collected repeated measures of burnout twice a week across all study phases. Pre-intervention and post-intervention data were collected with full OLBI assessments to further evaluate intervention effects.

Results:

All participants showed a decrease in burnout at the end of the study. Five of the six medical SLPs experienced statistically significant reductions in burnout. This investigation contributes to the growing body of evidence supporting RBCS for reducing health care burnout, offering a means to increase convenience and accessibility through virtual delivery.
Connecting the Dots: Interoception and Social–Emotional Communication
Authors: Melamed Tina C. , Obuchowski Laura B. , Kirkley Kristin M.
Published: July 2024

Purpose:

The purpose of this article is to explore the complex relationships between interoceptive awareness, which is known to underlie emotional awareness and self-regulation and appears to have significant implications for social cognition and social–emotional communication development.

Method:

We review research from related fields such as autism, psychology, neuroscience, and occupational therapy to define the concepts of interoception, interoceptive awareness (IA), emotional awareness, and self-regulation. We also explore the role of these skills as prerequisites for higher level executive function and possible implications for social and emotional communication development. We then discuss how limited IA may impact individuals with concomitant social communication needs. Finally, we discuss implications for assessment and intervention.

Conclusions:

Recent research suggests that an individual's IA is associated with emotional awareness, self-regulation, and social cognition. As such, interoception and IA may be of clinical significance for speech-language pathologists supporting individuals with social cognition and communication differences. Identifying individuals who demonstrate concomitant social–emotional communication difficulties and IA difficulties may be an important assessment consideration for developing appropriate social communication interventions.
Literacy-Based Intervention for Children With Speech Sound Disorders: A Review of the Literature
Authors: Cabbage Kathryn L. , Algeo-Nichols Dana
Published: July 2024

Purpose:

Children with speech sound disorder (SSD) are at known risk for literacy deficits. The purpose of this study was to review the available literature for intervention approaches that simultaneously target the development of literacy and speech sound production skills in children with SSD.

Method:

In this review, we examined the available evidence for intervention frameworks that support literacy skill development, specifically within the context of SSD intervention. A total of 13 articles met inclusion criteria, reporting both speech sound production and literacy outcomes for children with SSD receiving speech sound therapy that incorporated literacy skills to support literacy development.

Results:

The most common literacy focus for children receiving SSD intervention centered on the development of phonological awareness skills. Findings revealed that, on average, SSD intervention embedded into phonological awareness intervention improved both speech sound production accuracy and literacy skills in children with SSD. Children who received speech sound therapy only had reduced literacy skills as compared to their peers. Follow-up studies showed that children with SSD who had received phonological intervention exhibited literacy skills on par with their typically developing peers, well after treatment ended.

Conclusions:

Speech-language pathologists have the opportunity to support both literacy skill and speech sound production development in children with SSD. The majority of reviewed research included preschool-aged and early elementary–aged children. Future research is needed to investigate how to support literacy development in older children with SSD.
Standardisation concept for rapid testing of effects of cutting on losses of electric steel and amorphous ribbon
Authors: Pfützner Helmut , Shilyashki Georgi , Christodoulou Neofitos
Published: July 2024

Soft magnetic lamination is produced with high width that usually is reduced by cutting. It yields permeability decreases Ɵ and loss increases r. So far, existing corresponding data is not consistent, since derived from strongly different lamination widths W. A consistent, ultra‐rapid test method is suggested, for international standardisation. It is based on a multi‐frequency single sheet tester. A 50 cm long, precisely prepared material sample of W = 17 cm is inserted into it, for an initial measurement in non‐cut state. Then, it is cut into two 8.5 cm wide strips, for a test in cut state. Changes Ɵ and r are evaluated for induction values B up to 1.8 T. They are rapidly measured for frequencies of 50, 400 and 1000 Hz. Results from steel are described for guillotine cutting, from amorphous ribbon also for scissors. As a general tendency, Ɵ exceeds r by an order of about 3, however, with low reproducibility. Thus, standardisation is suggested for loss‐rise functions r(B) only. Examples of r‐functions reveal strong individual differences, as foot‐prints of different products. With increasing f, r‐values tend to sink. With increasing B, they rise, except for high B of NO steel. Amorphous ribbon shows non‐clarified deviating tendencies. Standardisation of r‐tests promises comparable information on cutting effects, for a given material, through a given cutting tool—but also on the tool's state of wear.
The relationship between power of arc discharge in transformer oil and peak value of the shock wave
Authors: Zhang Guangjin , Han Tianyu , Wen Tao , Zhao Yi , Chen Weijiang , Zhang Qiaogen , Li Jinzhong , Wang Ke
Published: July 2024

Since 2018, there have been seven incidents of explosions and fires in ultra‐high voltage transformers in China, which are caused by internal arc discharge in transformer oil. Various pressure measurement experiments have been conducted to explore the laws of discharge pressure. However, differences in experimental conditions, discharge energy, and current peak values have led to discrepancies in the discharge power and pressure laws in these experiments. Thus, it is crucial to investigate the relationship between arc discharge power and pressure peak in transformer oil. An arc discharge test platform was established to measure pressure waveforms based on the RLC circuit. Additionally, a shadow optical path observation system was implemented to record the development process of discharge arc, bubble pulsation, and shock waves. The study reveals the positive relationship between the average power and the peak value of the shock wave; the former refers to the breakdown and expansion stage of the arc channel, and the latter is generated by the discharge, respectively. Overall, the pressure generation mechanism of arc discharge in transformer oil and the relationship between arc discharge power and peak value of discharge pressure are revealed.
Improving mid-infrared thermal background subtraction with principal component analysis
Authors: Rousseau H. , Ertel S. , Defrère D. , Faramaz V. , Wagner K.
Published: July 2024

Context. Ground-based large-aperture telescopes, interferometers, and future extremely large telescopes equipped with adaptive optics (AO) systems provide angular resolution and high-contrast performance superior to space-based telescopes at thermal infrared wavelengths. Their sensitivity, however, is critically limited by the high thermal background inherent to ground-based observations in this wavelength regime.

Aims. We aim to improve the subtraction quality of the thermal infrared background from ground-based observations using principal component analysis (PCA).

Methods. We used data obtained with the Nulling-Optimized Mid-Infrared Camera on the Large Binocular Telescope Interferometer as a proxy for general high-sensitivity AO-assisted ground-based data. We applied both a classical background subtraction – using the mean of dedicated background observations – and a new background subtraction based on a PCA of the background observations. We compared the performances of these two methods in both high-contrast imaging and aperture photometry.

Results. Compared to the classical approach for background subtraction, PCA background subtraction delivers up to two times better contrasts down to the diffraction limit of the LBT’s primary aperture (i.e., 350 mas in N-band), that is, in the case of high-contrast imaging. An improvement factor between two and three was obtained over the mean background retrieval within the diffraction limit in the case of aperture photometry.

Conclusions. The PCA background subtraction significantly improves the sensitivity of ground-based thermal infrared imaging observations. When apply to LBTI’s nulling interferometry data, we expect the method to improve the sensitivity by a similar factor of two to three. This study paves the way to maximizing the potential of future infrared ground-based instruments and facilities, such as the future 30m-class telescopes.
General-relativistic instability in rapidly accreting supermassive stars in the presence of dark matter
Authors: Haemmerlé L.
Published: July 2024

Context. The collapse of supermassive stars (SMSs) via the general-relativistic (GR) instability would provide a natural explanation for the existence of the most extreme quasars. The presence of dark matter in SMSs is thought to potentially impact their properties, in particular their mass at collapse. Dark matter might be made of weakly interacting massive particles (WIMPs) that can be captured by the gravitational potential well of SMSs due to the interaction with the baryonic gas, favouring high dark matter densities in the star’s core. The annihilation of WIMPs can provide fuel to support the star before H-burning ignition, favouring low densities of baryonic gas, long stellar lifetimes, and high final masses.

Aims. Here we estimate the impact of dark matter on the GR dynamical stability of rapidly accreting SMSs.

Methods.We added a dark matter term to the relativistic equation of adiabatic pulsations and applied it to hylotropic structures in order to determine the onset point of the GR instability. We considered both a homogeneous dark matter background and density profiles of the form ∝exp(−r2/rχ2), typical for the case of WIMPs capture. The free choice of the central temperature in hylotropic models allowed us to consider SMSs fuelled by H-burning and by WIMP annihilation.

Results. We find that, in principle, the dark matter gravitational field can completely remove the GR instability. However, for SMSs fuelled by H-burning the dark matter densities required to stabilise the star against GR are orders of magnitude above the values that are expected for the dark matter background. In the case of WIMPs capture, where the required densities can be reached in the centre of the star, the high centralisation of the dark matter component prevents any effect on the GR instability. On the other hand, for SMSs fuelled by WIMP annihilation, we find that the low densities of baryonic gas inhibit the destabilising GR corrections, which shifts the stability limit by typically an order of magnitude towards higher masses. As long as central temperatures ≲107 K are maintained by WIMP annihilation, the GR instability is reached only for stellar masses > 106 M⊙.

Conclusions. Dark matter can impact the GR dynamical stability of SMSs only in the case of energetically significant WIMP annihilation. The detection of a SMS with mass > 106 M⊙ in an atomically cooled halo can be interpreted as evidence of WIMP annihilation in the star’s core.
Blue Book on China’s Scientific Journal Development (2021)
Authors:   China Association for Science and Technology
Published: July 2024

Blue Book on China’s Scientific Journal Development (2021) has the theme of “academic publishing in the open science environment”. Based on the major Chinese and international databases and first-hand official data, this book uses scientific methods to analyze the existing problems and to summarize the development process of China’s scientific journals. In this book, the authors introduce and analyze the general situation of China’s scientific and technological journals and research articles, present their overall status in the form of statistical key figures, and study the characteristics of the progress of open science, open science platform and open publishing progress. This work has thus drawn a picture of the transformation of international academic publishing in the open science environment. This Blue Book discusses the development trend of Chinese science journals in the open science environment, so as to provide reference for the founding and enhancement of the world-class scientific and technological journals in China.
Exergy-Based analysis of CO2e reduction by campus solar energy installation for sustainability improvement
Authors: Bal Hikmet , Çağlı Zeliha Şahin , Uslu Baran , Keleş Cengiz Özdemir
Published: July 2024

Sustainability studies aiming to reduce CO2e emissions is increasing gradually. Generally energy-based approaches is being used in these studies. In this paper, the carbon footprint calculations of energy-consuming systems in the OSTIM Technical University building is examined, focusing on the use of solar energy for emission reduction. An Exergy-based approach, generally ignored in CO2e calculations, is adopted. The carbon emissions calculation is carried out according to the ISO14064 by monitoring the University’s energy consumption. In order to reduce CO2e, use of solar energy PV panels for the University building is evaluated. Calculations showed that intended PV panels could meet 16% of the annual electricity demand, leading to an 18% reduction in CO2e emissions compared to grid reliance. For Exergy analysis, general electricity generation sources (fossil fuel, renewable, etc.) are considered in obtaining the CO2e caused by using grid electricity. It is concluded that using electricity generated from PV panels instead of grid electricity resulted in less exergy destruction and approximately 61% low in carbon emissions. The planned PV panel installation’s payback period calculated as 5.1 years. The obtained results suggest that calculating CO2e emissions using the Exergy method provides a more realistic view, due to not only considering consumption but also taking into account energy generation, transmission, and distribution lines.
Analysis of Photovoltaic Panel Integration for Achieving Net-Zero Energy in French Residential Retrofits in a Mediterranean Climate
Authors: Nazififard Mohammad , Zeynali Shahrzad
Published: July 2024

The construction sector significantly contributes to global energy consumption, with 34% of final energy use and 19% of greenhouse gas emissions. In the EU, buildings account for 40% of total energy consumption and 36% of emissions. Most energy use in buildings (about 65%) comes from structures built before 2000. To save energy, it is crucial to assess and enhance the energy efficiency of existing residential buildings, aiming to streamline retrofitting, reduce consumption, and improve thermal comfort. This study aims to identify optimal passive solutions for renovating a traditional “Puccini” house in Nice, France, to boost energy efficiency and comfort, considering the Mediterranean climate. This study involves implementing passive strategies suitable for existing structures, including insulating external walls, roofs, and floors, upgrading windows, utilizing internal canopies, and minimizing air infiltration. By deploying these passive strategies, the house’s energy demand could be slashed by approximately 50%, dropping from 112.16 to 52.34 kWh/m²/year. To meet the remaining energy needs, integrating photovoltaic panels into the building’s shell as an active system on the roof is proposed. This design not only preserves the building’s aesthetics but also covers a substantial portion of the electrical energy demand.