bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
On Fuzzy Sobolev Spaces W ̃1,p(Ω): Analysis of Dot Product and Fuzzy Norm
Authors: Mazoni Grace Nkwese , Kasoki Clara Paluku , Mvunzi Fidèle Muaku , Ta-yen Gérard Tawaba Musian , Tapasa Fernand Mamanya , Tshiseba Cédric Kabeya , Matendo Rostin Mabela Makengo , Ndimba Samuel Diangitukulu , Engombangi Jonathan Opfointshi , Londjiringa Emilien Loranu
Published: December 2024

This paper proposes a study of fuzzy Sobolev spaces W ̃1,p(Ω), integrating functions with triangular fuzzy coefficients. These fuzzy functional spaces aim to better model fuzzy functions, thus generalizing classical Sobolev spaces. We establish the theoretical foundations of these spaces by analyzing the fuzzy scalar product and the fuzzy norm. We focus on verifying essential properties such as bilinearity, symmetry, positivity, homogeneity, and triangle inequality, using the Dubois and Prade α-cut approach to formalize the notion of uncertainty.
This paper addresses observations identified in the literature, where the lack of suitable fuzzy functional spaces for solving fuzzy differential equations, in particular fuzzy Sobolev spaces W ̃1,p(Ω) , is often not taken into account. Moreover, the analysis of fuzzy scalar product and norm properties is often presented vaguely. We thus propose a detailed approach to the functional properties of these spaces, extending classical Sobolev spaces to a fuzzy framework.
This research opens up prospects for practical applications in areas such as fuzzy differential equations and decision-making in medicine, economics, artificial intelligence, information processing and various other fields.
Comparative Analysis of Nutrient and Anti-Nutrient Profiles in Complementary Foods formulated from Yellow Maize, Sorghum, Millet, and Soybeans fortified with Walnuts, Pumpkin Seeds, and Date Palm Fruits
Authors: Izuakor Perpetua Nwamalubia , Okoye Patrice-Anthony Chudi , Ekpunobi Uche Eunice , Nnaebue Kenneth Chukwugozie , Madubuko Uchenna Anthony
Published: December 2024

The study evaluates and compares the nutrient and anti-nutrient profiles of complementary foods formulated from yellow maize, sorghum, millet, and soybeans, fortified with walnuts, pumpkin seeds, and date palm fruits. The raw materials underwent fermentation, sprouting, boiling, blanching, and toasting before formulation. Nutrisurvey 2007 software was used to optimize the food formulations, and a cost analysis was performed. Cerelac, a commercial complementary food, served as the control. The three complementary food formulations (CFF1, CFF2, and CFF3) were analyzed for proximate, mineral, vitamin, and anti-nutritional content using standard analytical methods and compared against the World Health Organization (WHO) and Codex Alimentarius standards. The results revealed significant (p<0.05) differences in nutrient composition between Cerelac and CFF. Protein content in CFF ranged from 10.30% (CFF1) to 11.80% (CFF3), closely matching Cerelac's 11.90% and aligning with WHO’s recommendation of 10–15% for optimal growth. Both Cerelac and CFF provide essential minerals and CFF formulations, particularly CFF2 and CFF3, demonstrate superior content in key minerals like calcium, magnesium, and iron, contributing to enhanced dietary adequacy. For example, iron content was significantly (p<0.05) higher in CFF2 (11.70 mg/100 g) compared to Cerelac (6.62 mg/100 g), meeting WHO’s daily requirement of 3.9 to 11.6 mg/100g. Vitamin B12 levels in CFF2 (4.69 µg/100 g) and CFF3 (4.43 µg/100 g) significantly (p<0.05) exceeded those in Cerelac (1.05 µg/100 g), surpassing the Recommended Nutrient Intake (RNI) of 0.9 µg/day. Phytate levels in Cerelac (4.78 mg/g) and CFF (3.45–4.36 mg/g) in CFF2 and CFF3 remained below the Codex Alimentarius threshold of 5 mg/g. These findings demonstrate that the complementary foods formulated from locally available raw materials are nutrient-dense, affordable, and meet key international nutritional standards, offering a viable alternative for addressing malnutrition in resource-limited settings.
Climate Change and Food Security in Nigeria: Implications for Staple Crop Production
Authors: Ezekwe Christopher Ifeanyi , Humphrey Joyce Imara Nchom , Esther Appolos
Published: December 2024

This study contributes to the literature on environmental economics and sustainability by examining the implications of climate change on staple food production. The specific objectives centre on investigating how carbon dioxide emissions, rainfall, temperature and methane emissions affect crop production in Nigeria between 1990 and 2023. Time series data were obtained from the CBN Statistical Bulletin, World Bank and FAO statistics. Descriptive statistics and econometric techniques of unit root, cointegration and least squares estimation were applied for the data analysis. The ADF unit root test results showed that the variables are mixed integrated with carbon dioxide emissions being integrated of order zero while the other variables are integrated of order one. The bounds cointegration test results showed that food production has a long-run relationship with carbon dioxide emissions, rainfall, temperature and methane emissions. The findings showed that carbon dioxide emission positively and significantly affects food production in the long and short run. This finding indicates that carbon dioxide emission does not adversely affect the production of food crops. Similarly, the results showed that average rainfall affected food production positively in the long and short run. This finding is significant at the 5% level, indicating that variability in rainfall is not detrimental to food production during the study period. The effect of average temperature on food production is negative in the long run. Although this finding is not significant at the 5% level, it suggests that variability in the climatic conditions poses a threat to food production in Nigeria. The results also showed that methane emissions contributed positively to food production. This highlights that methane emissions increase with the increase in food production. Given the findings, the study recommends among others that policymakers should ensure strict adherence to environmental laws and promote adaptation strategies to minimize the extent temperature variability undermines the growth of food production in Nigeria.
Impact of Phosphorus Levels and PSB Application on Soil Physio-Chemical Properties in Mustard Fields under Gmelina-Based Agroforestry
Authors: Gupta Deeksha , Bajpai R. , Agrawal S. B. , Dwivedi B. S. , Bhatt Komal , Malviya Poornima , Mandloi Rahul
Published: December 2024

This study examines how soil qualities are affected by phosphorus (P) levels and phosphate solubilising bacteria (PSB) inoculation techniques in an agroforestry system based on Gmelina arborea, with a particular emphasis on mustard (Brassica juncea L.) growing. The experiment was conducted from November to April in two consecutive years 2022-2023 and 2023-2024 at JNKVV in Jabalpur, used a split-plot design with PSB application techniques (soil, seedling, and combination) as sub-treatments and phosphorus levels (30, 40, and 50 kg/ha) as the primary treatments. For soil analyses soil sample was collected from three different depth (0-15, 15-30 and 30-45 cm) and the soil type is black cotton soil, the pH was estimated as 6.32, the organic carbon content was 0.57%, and the phosphorus content was 16.84 kg/ha. The findings showed that PSB inoculation further increased phosphorus availability (pooled maximum: 19.16 kg/ha with combined soil and seedling inoculation), even though phosphorus levels considerably improved accessible phosphorus content (pooled maximum: 18.94 kg/ha at 50 kg P/ha). A slight difference in bulk density, approximately 0.02 g/cm², was observed during the research trial period in the same way, water holding capacity showed a negligible increase of 0.05%. The findings underscore the potential of integrated P and PSB management to enhance soil nutrient availability, particularly phosphorus, within tropical agroforestry systems, promoting sustainable agriculture practices.
Integrated Mechanisms of Ripening and Aroma Formation in Mango Fruit
Authors: Pathak Garima
Published: December 2024

Mango (Mangifera indica), a member of the Anacardiaceae family, is one of the most important tropical fruit crops globally, with India being the largest producer. India’s extensive mango diversity includes approximately 1,000 cultivars, each characterized by unique attributes such as plant structure, fruit size, skin and pulp colour, taste, and aroma. These traits are critical for consumer acceptance and market value both domestically and internationally. The ripening process in mango is a highly coordinated biological phenomenon involving a complex network of molecular, genetic, and biochemical pathways. This process drives key changes in fruit attributes, including colour development, texture softening, sugar accumulation, and the production of volatile compounds responsible for the characteristic aroma. These transformations significantly enhance the sensory and nutritional quality of the fruit. This review explores the intricate regulatory mechanisms underlying mango ripening, emphasizing the role of hormones such as ethylene and auxins in modulating gene expression. The study also examines the biosynthesis of secondary metabolites, particularly aroma-related compounds, which are vital for consumer appeal. Furthermore, advancements in genomics and proteomics have revealed critical insights into the role of specific enzymes and transcription factors in coordinating these pathways. Understanding the physiological and biochemical changes during mango ripening provides valuable knowledge for improving fruit quality, extending shelf life, and optimizing post-harvest handling. This study highlights recent findings in molecular biology and their implications for breeding and biotechnological interventions aimed at enhancing mango fruit quality.
Biomarker and Genetic Variation among Hepatitis B Virus Positive Patients Attending Selected Health Facilities in Bauchi Metropolis, Nigeria
Authors: Umar Abubakar , Iliyasu Mahmud Yerima , Alhaji Suleiman Yusuf , Ismail Abduljalil Idris , Umar Ahmed Faruk
Published: December 2024

Aim of the Study: The aim of this study is to determine biomarker and genetic variation among hepatitis B virus positive patients in Bauchi metropolis, Nigeria.
Study Design: This is a cross-sectional and laboratory-based study.
Place and Duration of the Study: The study involved patients attending two tertiary hospitals and one primary health care centre in Bauchi metropolis, from January 2024 to July 2024.
Methodology: A total of 200 samples were collected via vein from random participants, structured questionnaire and consent forms were issued to each participant for signing and data collection. The sample were screened for Hepatitis B surface antigen using one step rapid diagnostic test, the positive samples were further investigated for other hepatitis B virus biomarkers using Hepatitis B combo cassette.DNA of the positive samples were extracted and amplified using nested multiplex polymerase chain reaction (PCR), the product was run on Gel electrophoresis and the DNA bands were visualized using Gel documentation system.
Results: The overall prevalence rate of Hepatitis B virus infection according to this study was 9% (18), the rate is higher in males 55.6% (10) than females 44.4%(08) within the age range 21-30 (33.3%), followed by 27.2% and 5.6% for 41-50 and 51-60 years ranges. The risk factors analysis showed those that have infected family members have the highest prevalence 42.3% (11) followed by those that have the history of barbing tools sharing 38.4(10) and lowest was observed among vaccinated participants (3.8%). Among the other biomarkers detected, HBcAb has the highest rate 72.3% (13) of occurrence followed by 66.7% (12), 55% (10) and 5.5% (01) for HBeAb, HBsAb and HBeAg respectively. Genotype A frequency of appearance was the highest among the genotypes detected with prevalence rate 38.5%(05) followed by 30.8% (04) for both genotype E and B, while genotype C and D were not detected in this study. Mixed and Mono infections account for 50% (04) and 37.5% (03) respectively. The combinations of the mixed infection were ABE (25%), BE (12.5%), and AE (12.5%). Statistically, the biomarkers, genotypes and risk factors have no significant difference within their parameters.
Conclusion: The overall prevalence portrayed in this research was 9% mostly among male participants within the age range 21-30, the infection is less common among vaccinated participants.
Isotopologues Detection and Quantitative Analysis by Mid‐Infrared Dual‐Comb Laser Spectroscopy
Authors: Vodopyanov Konstantin L.
Published: March 2020

Isotopologues are molecules that differ from the parent molecule only in their isotopic composition. For example, ordinary light water (H2O), semi‐heavy water (HDO), and heavy water (D2O) are isotopologues of the same molecule. They have the same chemical formula and bonding arrangement of atoms, but at least one atom has a different number of neutrons than the parent. Isotopologues that differ only by the location of an isotopically modified element are called isotopomers. For example, the15N isotope in the N2O molecule can be either next to the oxygen atom or second next to it; thus, N15NO and15NNO are isotopomers of the same molecule. Detecting isotopologues of different molecules is critical in such fields as astrobiology, biogeochemistry, personalized medicine, and forensics, with mass spectrometry being a major technique to distinguish between different isotopologues. In this article, I focus on a new technique for detection of isotopologues based on laser spectroscopy. The backbone of this technology is massively parallel spectroscopic probing in the mid‐infrared spectral region by a frequency comb – a broad spectrum composed of some million phase‐locked equidistant sharp spectral lines – produced by a subharmonic optical parametric oscillator (OPO). Through assessing their unique rotational‐vibrational absorption signatures, we are able to simultaneously detect numerous molecules and their isotopologues in a mixture of gases, in real time and with one part‐per‐billion detection capability.
Platinum‐Based Anticancer Drugs
Authors: Liu Yan‐Cheng , Miller Jessica J.
Published: March 2020

In this article, the new developments on the platinum‐based anticancer drugs mainly in the past decade were remarked and discussed. These include the new research progress and insights on the classical platinum drugs, such as cisplatin and oxaliplatin, as well as the recent research progress on those nonclassical platinum‐based drugs. Especially, we focused on the emerging studies on the polynuclear platinum complexes, platinum(IV) complexes, and the photodynamic therapy and nanocarrier systems of these new types of platinum complexes. We have tried to select the most representative ones to be emphasized so that the most significant research progress of the platinum drugs may be shown and reported. This will inspire more scientists to develop better and more promising platinum‐based drugs based on these research findings in the future.
Recycling of a Healing Agent by a Water‐Vapor Treatment to Enhance the Self‐Repair Ability of Ytterbium Silicate‐Based Nanocomposite in Multiple Crack‐Healing Test
Authors: Nguyen Son Thanh , Nakayama Tadachika , Takahashi Tsuyoshi , Suematsu Hisayuki , Do Dung Thi Mai , Okawa Ayahisa , Niihara Koichi
Published: March 2020

Yb2Si2O7/Yb2SiO5composites dispersed with silicon carbide (SiC) possess a self‐crack‐healing ability that makes them promising top‐coat materials for multilayered environmental barrier coatings (EBCs) of SiC/SiC gas turbine blades. Stress‐induced surface cracks can be fully healed at high temperatures by the volume expansion of SiO2glass and the newly formed Yb2Si2O7in the composite. The reaction between SiO2and Yb2SiO5to form Yb2Si2O7is considered a critical step that determines the high healing efficiency of this composite, therefore, Yb2SiO5is considered as the secondary healing agent apart from the primary one, SiC. However, once all the healing agents have reacted, the composite can no longer promote its crack‐healing ability. To retain this property, in this work, Yb2SiO5is regenerated by a heat treatment in water‐vapor atmosphere at 1073 K. X‐ray diffraction (XRD) and energy‐dispersive X‐ray spectroscopy (EDS) analyses show that the healing agent can be partially recycled after the treatment. In addition, the composite treated in water vapor demonstrates a greater crack‐healing ability compared with the untreated composite. These results open a new path for the development of gas turbine blades and high‐temperature components possessing permanent crack‐healing ability.
Still–Gennari Olefination and its Applications in Organic Synthesis
Authors: Janicki Ignacy , Kiełbasiński Piotr
Published: March 2020

The Still–Gennari olefination is a widely applied modification of the Horner–Wadsworth–Emmons reaction, allowing access to Z‐olefins by carbonyl group transformation. Its synthetic utility is undoubtedly of great significance for organic chemistry, as can be illustrated by the number of citations of the original report by W. C. Still and C. Gennari which up to date has been cited over 1000 times. In 2008 Nobel prize winner Ei‐ichi Negishi indicated the Still–Gennari olefination as one of the crucial methods for tolefin synthesis, complementary to palladium‐catalyzed alkenylations. Surprisingly, so far there is no review concerning this popular and valuable transformation. Therefore, we aim to comprehensively systematize achievements in this field and to present the scope of applications of the Still–Gennari olefination along with recent examples in the total synthesis of biologically active compounds. Our review is intended to be of interest for the general chemical community as well as to be a helpful source of information for synthetic organic chemists.

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Achieving Room‐Temperature Charge Density Wave in Transition Metal Dichalcogenide 1T‐VSe2
Authors: Feng Jiajia , Susilo Resta A. , Lin Bencheng , Deng Wen , Wang Yanju , Li Bin , Jiang Kai , Chen Zhiqiang , Xing Xiangzhuo , Shi Zhixiang , Wang Chunlei , Chen Bin
Published: March 2020

Charge density wave (CDW) systems have been widely studied and proposed to be potential candidates for next‐generation electronic devices. However, the lack of room‐temperature CDW materials has limited the development of CDW‐based electronic devices, and thus finding a way to manipulate the CDW transitions and orders toward room temperature will be of importance. Room‐temperature and above CDW transition in 1T‐VSe2 is reported. The CDW transition is found to shift to ≈114 K at 0.7 GPa, and further compression enhances the transition temperature dramatically, reaching ≈358 K at 14.6 GPa. High‐pressure Raman spectroscopy measurement confirms that room‐temperature CDW order is achieved and persists up to 15 GPa. Such significant enhancement in CDW can be attributed to the pressure enhanced out‐of‐plane Fermi surface nesting and CDW gap in 1T‐VSe2. The observation of room‐ and high‐temperature CDW transition in 1T‐VSe2 under pressure provides an engineering approach to optimizing the CDW as needed in applications, which does not only open up a new platform for searching and controlling novel states of two‐dimensional materials, but also promotes a practical development of CDW‐related technology and devices.
Light Harvesting at Oblique Incidence Decoupled from Transmission in Organic Solar Cells Exhibiting 9.8% Efficiency and 50% Visible Light Transparency
Authors: Liu Quan , Gerling Luis G. , Bernal‐Texca Francisco , Toudert Johann , Li Tengfei , Zhan Xiaowei , Martorell Jordi
Published: March 2020

For many years, it has been recognized that potential organic photovoltaic cells must be integrated into elements requiring high transparency. In most of such elements, sunlight is likely to be incident at large angles. Here it is demonstrated that light transmission can be largely decoupled from harvesting by optically tailoring an infrared shifted nonfullerene acceptor based organic cell architecture. A 9.67% power conversion efficiency at 50° incidence is achieved together with an average visual transmission above 50% at normal incidence. The deconstruction of a 1D nanophotonic structure is implemented to conclude that just two λ/4 thick layers are essential to reach, for a wide incidence angle range, a higher than 50% efficiency increase relative to the standard configuration reference. In an outdoor measurement of vertically positioned 50% visible transparent cells, it is demonstrated that 9.80% of sunlight energy can be converted into electricity during the course of 1 day.
Soil‐test biological activity with the flush of CO2: V. Validation of nitrogen prediction for corn production
Authors: Franzluebbers Alan J.
Published: March 2020

Production of corn (Zea mays L.) requires significant N availability to reach maximum yield potential. Nitrogen fertilizer recommendations generally have ignored site‐specific conditions and have focused more on total N demand for representative soils across a region. Recent evidence suggested that site‐specific conditions of the biologically active component (0–10‐cm depth) could inform the magnitude of yield response to applied N fertilizer. This approach was tested further on 111 fields in Coastal Plain, Piedmont, and Blue Ridge regions (states of North Carolina, South Carolina, and Virginia). Plant‐available N (sum of residual inorganic N and net N mineralization during a 24‐d aerobic incubation) was inversely proportional to economically optimum N rate scaled to grain production level (r2 = .47, p < .001). Soil‐test biological activity as a simple, rapid, and reliable indicator of net N mineralization was also predictive of economically optimum N rate (r2 = .46, p < .001) and validated an earlier assessment. Greater soil‐test biological activity was obtained from private farms than from research stations (259 vs. 172 mg C kg−1 3 d−1, respectively; p < .001), as well as from fields with minimum tillage, multi‐species cover cropping, and amendment with animal manures. Results imply that some farmers are making choices to improve soil health condition and these choices can lead to lower requirement for N fertilizer inputs. A shift towards site‐specific N management should focus on soil biological activity and its association with N mineralization as indicators of soil health to increase profit and reduce environmental impacts.
An examination of breastmilk composition among high altitude Peruvian women
Authors: Schafrank Lauren A. , Washabaugh Jennifer R. , Hoke Morgan K.
Published: March 2020

Objective

Relatively little is known about sources of variation in human breastmilk composition. Previous research posits that composition may be affected by the low oxygen environment found at high altitude (HA). Our objective is to compare the milk composition of a sample of HA Andeans to previously published data on HA Tibetans and low altitude (LA) Peruvians.

Methods

Mid‐feed milk samples were collected from 22 women and tested for lipid, carbohydrate and protein content in addition to dietary surveys and anthropometric measures. We examined relationships between maternal and infant characteristics (maternal BMI, adiposity, age, skinfold thickness, infant age) and milk composition using multiple regression analyses. A Welch‐Satterthause t‐test was used to compare summary measures from Andean sample and Tibetan samples.

Results

Milk fat, sugar, and true protein content were correlated with different maternal and infant characteristics, with only waist to hip ratio negatively affecting fat and positively affecting sugar content in full models. Nuñoan and LA Peruvian milk exhibited significantly lower lactose levels (6.01 ± .89 g/100 mL and 6.38 ± 0.03 g/100 mL) than Tibetans (7.25 ± 0.35 g/100 mL). Fat content among Nuñoans was similar to that of Tibetans (4.5 ± 0.78 g/100 mL and 4.6 ± 1.51 g/100 mL, respectively), and higher than those of LA Peruvians.

Conclusions

Both HA populations demonstrate relatively high fat content and both Peruvian samples exhibited relatively higher protein and lower lactose than Tibetan samples, suggesting that both population‐based differences in feeding behavior and climatic differences may influence composition.
Structural Diversification of Pillar[n]arene Macrocycles
Authors: Xu Xiaowen , Jerca Valentin Victor , Hoogenboom Richard
Published: March 2020

Despite the fact that pillar[n]arenes receive major interest as building blocks for supramolecular chemistry and advanced materials, their functionalization is generally limited to the modification of the hydroxy or alkoxy units present on the rims. This limited structural freedom restricts further developments and has very recently been overcome. In this article, we highlight three very recent studies demonstrating further structural diversification of pillar[n]arenes by partial removal of the alkoxy substituents on the rims, which can be considered as the next generation of pillar[n]arenes.
Engraving the Surface of Electrospun Microfibers with Nanoscale Grooves Promotes the Outgrowth of Neurites and the Migration of Schwann Cells
Authors: Wu Tong , Xue Jiajia , Xia Younan
Published: March 2020

We report a simple method based upon coaxial electrospinning for the fabrication of aligned microfibers engraved with nanoscale grooves to promote neurite outgrowth and cell migration. The success of this method relies on the immiscibility between poly(ϵ‐caprolactone) (PCL) and poly(vinyl pyrrolidone) (PVP) in 2,2,2‐trifluoroethanol (TFE) for the generation of PVP/TFE pockets on the surface of a PCL jet. The pockets are stretched and elongated along with the jet, eventually resulting in the formation of nanoscale grooves upon the removal of PVP. The presence of nanoscale grooves greatly enhances the outgrowth of neurites from both PC12 cells and chick embryonic dorsal root ganglia (DRG) bodies, as well as the migration of Schwann cells. The enhancements can be maximized by optimizing the dimensions of the grooves for potential use in applications involving neurite extension and wound closure.
A new one‐dimensional coordination polymer synthesized from zinc and guanazole: Superior capture of organic arsenics
Authors: Wang Chao‐Yang , Zhang Xiu‐Wu , Wang Jia‐Wei , Fu Huifen , Wang Peng , Wang Chong‐Chen
Published: March 2020

Organic arsenic compounds in the environment are a global threat to human health. This threat has created the urgency to develop highly efficient adsorbents with both high adsorption capacity and versatile removal of different arsenic compounds. A novel 1D zinc(II) coordination polymer, formulated as Zn2(datrz)2(bpy)Cl2 (BUC‐70) (datrz = guanazole, bpy = 4,4′‐bipyridine), was successfully synthesized through slow evaporation at room temperature. BUC‐70 exhibited an excellent adsorption capacity toward p‐arsanilic acid (p‐ASA) and roxarsone (ROX) in water, which could be ascribed to As–O–Zn bonding interactions and strong hydrogen‐bonding interactions between the organic arsenics and BUC‐70. The maximum adsorption capacities toward p‐ASA and ROX were 738 and 937 mg·g−1, respectively. BUC‐70 was effective in the removal of p‐ASA and ROX at low concentrations (<5 mg·l−1) from the simulated p‐ASA and ROX wastewater. Furthermore, the as‐synthesized BUC‐70 exhibited good adsorption property toward p‐ASA and ROX in wastewater simulated by lake water and tap water. After adsorptive treatment using BUC‐70, the concentrations of both p‐ASA and ROX were lower than the required concentrations of the drinking water standard of the World Health Organization and the surface water standard of China. Continuous‐flow, fixed‐bed column experiments were performed using BUC‐70 loaded on cotton as packing material to explore the potential large‐scale application.
Bio‐Inspired Isoalloxazine Redox Moieties for Rechargeable Aqueous Zinc‐Ion Batteries
Authors: Cheng Liwei , Liang Yanhong , Zhu Qiaonan , Yu Dandan , Chen Mengxue , Liang Junfei , Wang Hua
Published: March 2020

Organic electrode materials hold great potential for fabricating sustainable energy storage systems, however, the development of organic redox‐active moieties for rechargeable aqueous zinc‐ion batteries is still at an early stage. Here, we report a bio‐inspired riboflavin‐based aqueous zinc‐ion battery utilizing an isoalloxazine ring as the redox center for the first time. This battery exhibits a high capacity of 145.5 mAh g−1 at 0.01 A g−1 and a long‐life stability of 3000 cycles at 5 A g−1. We demonstrate that isoalloxazine moieties are active centers for reversible zinc‐ion storage by using optical and photoelectron spectroscopies as well as theoretical calculations. Through molecule‐structure tailoring of riboflavin, the obtained alloxazine and lumazine molecules exhibit much higher theoretical capacities of 250.3 and 326.6 mAh g−1, respectively. Our work offers an effective redox‐active moiety for aqueous zinc batteries and will enrich the valuable material pool for electrode design.
Adaptive tracking control of robot manipulators with input saturation and time‐varying output constraints
Authors: Wu Yuxiang , Huang Rui , Wang Yu , Wang Jiaqing
Published: March 2020

This paper investigates adaptive tracking control in task space for robot manipulators with uncertain system dynamics, input saturation, and time‐varying output constraints simultaneously. An auxiliary system is constructed to compensate the effect of the input saturation, and an asymmetric barrier Lyapunov function (BLF) is applied to tackle time‐varying output constraints, while radial basis function (RBF) neural networks (NN) are used to approximate the unknown closed‐loop dynamics. By introducing a disturbance observer (DO), unknown external disturbances from humans and environment are estimated, and NN approximation errors are compensated. A novel adaptive NN tracking controller is designed to guarantee all signals in the closed‐loop system are semi‐globally uniformly ultimately bounded (UUB), while the tracking errors and observer errors converge to a small neighborhood of zero, and the time‐varying output constraints are not violated. Moreover, the adaptive tracking control of redundant robot manipulators is studied, and the subtask and task space tracking of redundant robot manipulators are realized simultaneously, while the stability of the system is proved by Lyapunov stability theory. Finally, some simulation results are presented to verify the effectiveness and superiority of the proposed control scheme.
Metallothionein determination can be applied to learn about aquatic metal pollution and oxidative stress detoxification mechanisms through Problem‐based Learning
Authors: Hauser‐Davis Rachel A. , Comarú Michele W. , Lopes Renato M.
Published: March 2020

A simple, repeatable and inexpensive laboratory practice applied to teach and discuss aquatic metal pollution and oxidative stress detoxification mechanisms through biomarker analyses, as well as important ecotoxicology concepts, is presented herein. It has been implemented in a university in Brazil to both undergraduate and Master's and PhD students, indicating usefulness to all these levels. Students learned to detect metallothionein and reduced glutathione concentrations in biological samples and investigate several variables of interest in biomonitoring assessments. In addition, statistical correlations were used to indicate the potential dual role played by MT in aquatic organisms, allowing for biological inferences regarding both aquatic metal pollution and oxidative stress detoxification mechanisms and maturing of ecotoxicological and biomonitoring concepts discussed and presented both theoretically and integrated to the laboratory findings.
Evaluating the effect of using synchronous machine simulations to support traditional teaching methodology in electrical engineering degree courses
Authors: Ruíz Rodríguez F. J. , Torreglosa J. P.
Published: March 2020

Synchronous machine concepts are abstract and difficult to understand on the basis of the equivalent electrical circuits. Many studies highlight the difficulty of engineering degree students in understanding electrical circuits and propose different methodologies to address this issue. This study aims to show how the use of computer‐assisted teaching improves general understanding of synchronous machines, in accordance with the following hypothesis: “complementing the traditional approach to teaching synchronous machines courses (based on theory lessons and practical laboratory sessions), with computer simulations, improves conceptual understanding and, consequently, course success rates.” To test the effectiveness of the proposed teaching methodology, a controlled experiment was conducted. The students were divided into two groups, control and experimental, and their responses were compared. The former followed traditional teaching methodology, whereas the latter utilized the proposed complementary computer‐assisted simulations. Both groups were evaluated according to the same test comprised of a list of comprehension questions. The results of the z test analysis show that z = 4.365 and p < .001, implying that the null hypothesis can be rejected and a significant contrast between the two groups can be recognized. The effect size, evaluated using Cohen's d, is d = 0.816, again indicating that the difference between the groups is significant. The posttest results reveal that the experimental group outperformed the control group in all three of the dimensions under analysis: theory, problems, and complete test.
Delayed presentation, diagnosis, and psychosocial aspects of male breast cancer
Authors: Co Michael , Lee Andrea , Kwong Ava
Published: March 2020

Introduction

Male breast cancer is uncommon, delay in seeking medical attention often results in late presentation and poor prognosis.

Methods

Retrospective review of a prospectively maintained database was performed. Patients who were still having regular follow‐up were contacted for telephone interview.

Results

In this study, 56 male breast cancer patients were treated in our center from January 1998 to December 2018, accounting for 0.88% of all breast cancers treated during the same period of time. Median age of onset was 61 years old (Range: 33‐95). In this study, 6 (10.7%) patients presented with distant metastasis at the time of diagnosis and received palliative systemic treatment only. And, 50 patients were surgically treated and all had mastectomy. Axillary dissection was performed in 36 (72%) patients, while sentinel node biopsy was performed in 14 (28%) patients. Median tumor size was 23 mm (2‐100 mm). A Majority were diagnosed with invasive carcinoma (NOS), while 38 (67.8%) patients were node positive.Here 36 (64.3%) patients were alive at the time of the study, 31 (86.1%) patients responded to the telephone interview. More than 90% of our patients expressed various degrees of embarrassment at the time of breast symptom onset. Similarly, more than 90% of these patients experienced embarrassment while waiting in the breast center with predominant female patients. Most patients (N = 26) were not aware that breast cancer can occur in men prior to the diagnosis. Median duration from symptoms to the first medical consultation was 12.4 months (1‐120 months).

Conclusion

Male breast cancer is rare and patients usually present late, Lack of knowledge, public education, and embarrassment are the important related factors.
Lipase hypersecretion syndrome: A rare cutaneous manifestation of advanced pancreatic acinar cell carcinoma
Authors: Nizam Wasay , Shah Adil A. , Rajack Fareed , Ramdath Asa , Naab Tammey , Williams Mallory
Published: March 2020

Careful recognition of cutaneous lesions in patients with malignancies may aid in avoiding additional morbidity during end of life care.
Enhanced Electrochemical and Thermal Stabilities of Li[Ni0.88Co0.09Al0.03]O2 Cathode Material by La4NiLiO8 Coating for Li–Ion Batteries
Authors: Zhang Ruixin , Wang Yangyang , Song Xiang , Li Guoran , Liu Sheng , Gao Xueping
Published: March 2020

Nickel‐rich layered oxides with high reversible capacity are considered as the next‐generation cathode materials for lithium‐ion batteries (LIBs). However, capacity degradation induced by side reactions and structural degradation on the surface has been the main obstacle for their applications. In this work, a stable layer of La4NiLiO8 is coated on Ni‐rich material of Li[Ni0.88Co0.09Al0.03]O2 (NCA) by a facile method. The formation process of the La4NiLiO8 layer is analyzed from both thermodynamic and dynamics aspects. The results indicate that oxygen migration evolution near the NCA surface is effectively reduced, thus improving the structural stability of the lattice and alleviating the side reactions on the surface. The electrochemical and thermal stabilities of NCA material are remarkably improved by coating the La4NiLiO8 layer. This work provides a strategy for effective coating functional materials on Ni‐rich cathode materials for LIBs.
Specific Cation Adsorption: Exploring Synergistic Effects on CO2 Electroreduction in Ionic Liquids
Authors: Rudnev Alexander V. , Kiran Kiran , Broekmann Peter
Published: March 2020

Ionic liquids (ILs) have gained attention as promising solvents as reaction media for the electrochemical conversion of CO2 into valued‐added products. ILs can co‐catalyze the CO2 reduction reaction (CO2RR), in particular, when Ag is applied as the primary metallic electrocatalyst. To broaden this co‐catalysis concept, we conducted a comprehensive study of a range of electrode materials exposed to three ILs, which differed in the chemical nature of their anions and cations. Here, we examine the activity of the electrode/IL combinations toward the CO2RR based on cyclic voltammetry data. The voltammetric experiments are complemented by gas chromatography analysis of the products, demonstrating that CO is the main product for most of the electrode/IL combinations. Our results demonstrate that the specific adsorption of the IL cation on the electrode plays a crucial role in the co‐catalytic effect of the ILs. Based on our analysis, we identify three classes of electrode materials, which differ in their synergistic interaction with the IL cations and their resulting CO2RR activity. The key criterion for this classification is the extent to which the CO2RR is superimposed on the reductive decomposition of the ILs.
Through the Looking Glass: Chiral Recognition of Substrates and Products at the Active Sites of Racemases and Epimerases
Authors: Bearne Stephen L.
Published: March 2020

Unlike most enzymes, which exhibit stereospecific substrate binding, racemases and epimerases bind and catalyze the reversible interconversion of enantiomeric and epimeric pairs of substrates. Over the past 15 years, a growing number of racemase and epimerase structures have been solved, furnishing insights into the nature of chiral recognition of substrates by these enzymes. Those enzymes catalyzing stereoinversion of a carbon acid substrate through a direct 1,1‐proton transfer mechanism all bind their substrates in a mirror‐image packing orientation. This does not apply generally to racemases and epimerases that use other mechanisms, such as NADH‐dependent epimerases that employ a “flipping” mechanism. In general, polar groups are bound and fixed at the three binding determinants on the protein defining a pseudo‐mirror plane, while nonpolar groups may be mobile. The hydrogen atoms on each stereocenter are positioned antipodal with respect to the pseudo‐mirror plane, making a two‐base mechanism imperative. Recognition that mirror‐image packing is the common binding mode for enantiomeric or epimeric substrates of these enzymes should inform modelling/docking studies and protein engineering.
Chemoselectivity issues of the asymmetric interaction between cyclohexanone, β‐nitrostyrene, and benzoic acid under 5‐aryl prolinate's organocatalysis
Authors: Ivantcova Polina M. , Kudryavtsev Konstantin V.
Published: March 2020

4‐l‐menthyloxycarbonyl 5‐aryl prolinates were studied as organocatalysts of a novel three‐component reaction of cyclohexanone, benzoic acid, and β‐nitrostyrene. The presence of ortho‐halogen atom in 5‐aryl fragment of the catalyst is favored for driving the formation of chiral 7a‐hydroxyoctahydro‐2H‐indol‐2‐one scaffold. 5‐(o‐Chlorophenyl) prolinate selectively afforded 3‐phenyl‐7a‐hydroxyoctahydro‐2H‐indol‐2‐one with ee 63%, whereas 5‐phenyl prolinate led to conjugation of β‐nitrostyrene to cyclohexanone (the Michael adduct). Plausible chlorine effect is accounted for the specific interaction of the 5‐aryl prolinate enamine intermediate with β‐nitrostyrene in the transition state.
Particle radiation therapy in the management of malignant glioma: Early experience at the Shanghai Proton and Heavy Ion Center
Authors: Kong Lin , Wu Jinsong , Gao Jing , Qiu Xianxin , Yang Jing , Hu Jiyi , Hu Weixu , Mao Ying , Lu Jiade J.
Published: March 2020

Background

The objective of this study was to evaluate the outcomes of patients with high‐grade glioma who received treatment with particle radiotherapy.

Methods

Between June 2015 and October 2018, 50 consecutive and nonselected patients with glioblastoma multiforme (n = 34) or anaplastic glioma (n = 16) were treated at the Shanghai Proton and Heavy Ion Center. Twenty‐four patients received proton radiotherapy (at a dose of 60 gray‐equivalents in 30 daily fractions), and 26 patients received proton radiotherapy plus a carbon‐ion radiotherapy (CIRT) boost in various dose‐escalating schemes. All patients received temozolomide because of their age or their O‐6‐methylguanine‐DNA methyltransferase (MGMT) promoter methylation status. Progression‐free survival (PFS) and overall survival (OS) rates, as well as treatment‐induced toxicities, were analyzed.

Results

At a median follow‐up of 14.3 months (range, 4.8‐39.6 months), the 12‐month and 18‐month OS rates were 87.8% (95% CI, 77.6%‐98.0%) and 72.8% (95% CI, 56.7%‐88.9%), respectively, and the 12‐month and 18‐month PFS rates were 74.2% (95% CI, 60.9%‐87.5%) and 59.8% (95% CI, 43.1%‐76.5%), respectively. Univariate analyses revealed that age (>50 vs ≤50 years), World Health Organization grade (3 vs 4), and Karnofsky performance status (>80 vs ≤80) were significant prognosticators for OS, and IDH mutation and World Health Organization grade were significant for predicting PFS. Furthermore, MGMT promoter methylation, performance status, and age showed a trend toward predicting PFS. No significant predictive factors for PFS or OS were identified in multivariate analyses. Twenty‐nine patients experienced grade 1 treatment‐related acute adverse effects, and 11 developed grade 1 (n = 6) or grade 2 (n = 5) late adverse effect of radiation‐induced brain necrosis. No grade 3, 4, or 5 toxicities were observed.

Conclusions

Particle radiotherapy produced 18‐month OS and PFS rates of 72.8% and 59.8%, respectively, with acceptable adverse effects in patients with high‐grade glioma. Particle radiotherapy at a dose ≥60 gray‐equivalents appears to be safe and potentially effective.
Pillaring Effect of K Ion Anchoring for Stable V2O5‐Based Zinc‐Ion Battery Cathodes
Authors: Hao Yu , Zhang Shumin , Tao Peng , Shen Tong , Huang Zijie , Yan Jingkai , Chen Yu
Published: March 2020

Aqueous zinc‐ion batteries (ZIBs) have attracted widespread attention due to their advantages in safety and environmental benignity. However, achieving a cathode material with stable electrochemical performance for such a system remains an ongoing challenge. Herein, a K0.5V2O5 cathode has been designed and synthesized by intercalating of K+ into V2O5, thus constructing a stable crystal structure by forming chemical bonds between V2O5 layers. The successful intercalation of K+ has been confirmed by a series of experimental tests and Vienna Ab‐initio Simulation Package simulation. These layer‐interlinking chemical bonds act as “pillars” to strongly hold the V2O5 layers together and protect them from dissolution. Furthermore, the K0.5V2O5 electrode also exhibits excellent durability (about 150 mA h g−1 at 5 A g−1 after 3000 cycles). More impressively, even after standing for three days in the solution of 3 M ZnSO4 electrolyte, the K0.5V2O5 electrode still maintains a high capacity of 92.2 mA h g−1 after 150 cycles, demonstrating its outstanding stability and tolerance in such aqueous electrolyte.
Authenticated content distribution framework for digital rights management systems with smart card revocation
Authors: Mishra Dheerendra , Rana Saurabh
Published: March 2020

The growing features of multimedia distribution across multiple smart devices have attained significant attention of many industries and users. In this context, digital rights management (DRM) is the system, which tries to ensure authorized content distribution. For much diverse and productive research in content distribution, DRM is paying attention to provide a better DRM protocol according to current requirements. But the violation of copyright protection of digital content (video, audio, and secret documents) still has a significant issue of concern. Not only solely copyright protection but also stolen smart cards which keep the license and more specific information of a user is also an attentive concern of DRM users. In this paper, we introduced an authenticated key agreement protocol which maintains secure and authorized content distribution with successful smart card revocation. Moreover, the proposed scheme has simulated under AVISPA tool, which informally confirms the security of the protocol. The formal proof security is given in the random oracle model and then done the performance evaluation. The comparison with the relevant existing schemes shows the advantage of the proposed scheme. It identified that the proposed protocol achieves all the desirable security and performance attributes with valid smart card revocation.
Are geometric morphometric analyses replicable? Evaluating landmark measurement error and its impact on extant and fossil Microtus classification
Authors: Fox Nathaniel S. , Veneracion Joseph J. , Blois Jessica L.
Published: March 2020

Geometric morphometric analyses are frequently employed to quantify biological shape and shape variation. Despite the popularity of this technique, quantification of measurement error in geometric morphometric datasets and its impact on statistical results is seldom assessed in the literature. Here, we evaluate error on 2D landmark coordinate configurations of the lower first molar of five North American Microtus (vole) species. We acquired data from the same specimens several times to quantify error from four data acquisition sources: specimen presentation, imaging devices, interobserver variation, and intraobserver variation. We then evaluated the impact of those errors on linear discriminant analysis‐based classifications of the five species using recent specimens of known species affinity and fossil specimens of unknown species affinity. Results indicate that data acquisition error can be substantial, sometimes explaining >30% of the total variation among datasets. Comparisons of datasets digitized by different individuals exhibit the greatest discrepancies in landmark precision, and comparison of datasets photographed from different presentation angles yields the greatest discrepancies in species classification results. All error sources impact statistical classification to some extent. For example, no two landmark dataset replicates exhibit the same predicted group memberships of recent or fossil specimens. Our findings emphasize the need to mitigate error as much as possible during geometric morphometric data collection. Though the impact of measurement error on statistical fidelity is likely analysis‐specific, we recommend that all geometric morphometric studies standardize specimen imaging equipment, specimen presentations (if analyses are 2D), and landmark digitizers to reduce error and subsequent analytical misinterpretations.