bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Effectiveness of ozone generated by a dielectric barrier discharge plasma reactor against multidrug-resistant pathogens and Clostridioides difficile spores
Authors: Bong Cheolwoo , Choi Ji Young , Bae Jinseung , Park Sungsu , Ko Kwan Soo , Bak Moon Soo , Cheong Hae Suk
Published: August 2022

The contaminated healthcare environment plays an important role in the spread of multidrug-resistant organisms (MDROs) and Clostridioides difficile. This study aimed to evaluate the antimicrobial effects of ozone generated by a dielectric barrier discharge (DBD) plasma reactor on various materials that were contaminated by vancomycin-resistant Enterococcus faecium (VRE), carbapenem-resistant Klebsiella pneumoniae (CRE), carbapenem-resistant Pseudomonas aeruginosa (CRPA), carbapenem-resistant Acinetobacter baumannii (CRAB) and C. difficile spores. Various materials contaminated by VRE, CRE, CRPA, CRAB and C. difficile spores were treated with different ozone concentrations and exposure times. Atomic force microscopy (AFM) demonstrated bacterial surface modifications following ozone treatment. When an ozone dosage of 500 ppm for 15 min was applied to VRE and CRAB, about 2 or more log10 reduction was observed in stainless steel, fabric and wood, and a 1–2 log10 reduction in glass and plastic. Spores of C. difficile were more resistant to ozone than were all other tested organisms. On AFM, the bacterial cells, following ozone treatment, were swollen and distorted. The ozone generated by the DBD plasma reactor provided a simple and valuable decontamination tool for the MDROs and C. difficile spores, which are known as common pathogens in healthcare-associated infections.
Design, synthesis, and in silico studies of quinoline-based-benzo[d]imidazole bearing different acetamide derivatives as potent α-glucosidase inhibitors
Authors: Noori Milad , Davoodi Ali , Iraji Aida , Dastyafteh Navid , Khalili Minoo , Asadi Mehdi , Mohammadi Khanaposhtani Maryam , Mojtabavi Somayeh , Dianatpour Mehdi , Faramarzi Mohammad Ali , Larijani Bagher , Amanlou Massoud , Mahdavi Mohammad
Published: August 2022

In this study, 18 novel quinoline-based-benzo[d]imidazole derivatives were synthesized and screened for their α-glucosidase inhibitory potential. All compounds in the series except 9q showed a significant α-glucosidase inhibition with IC50 values in the range of 3.2 ± 0.3–185.0 ± 0.3 µM, as compared to the standard drug acarbose (IC50 = 750.0 ± 5.0 µM). A kinetic study indicated that compound 9d as the most potent derivative against α-glucosidase was a competitive type inhibitor. Furthermore, the molecular docking study revealed the effective binding interactions of 9d with the active site of the α-glucosidase enzyme. The results indicate that the designed compounds have the potential to be further studied as new anti-diabetic agents.
High rates of COVID-19 vaccine refusal among Afghan pregnant women: a cross sectional study
Authors: Nemat Arash , Yaftali Sumaira , Danishmand Tamim Jan , Nemat Haroon , Raufi Nahid , Asady Abdullah
Published: August 2022

Severe Acute Respiratory Syndrome Corona Virus Type-2 (SARS-COV-2) was first detected in China and created a global pandemic rapidly. Subsequently after serious efforts different types of vaccines produced against the virus and recommended for all people including pregnant women. The aim of this study was to realize the willingness of pregnant women to accept the COVID-19 vaccine in Kabul Afghanistan. For this purpose, a cross-sectional study was conducted in gynecology wards of several hospitals in Kabul, Afghanistan from 10th of July to 20th of August 2021 through direct interview with the pregnant women who had come for prenatal care to the healthcare centers. The collected data were analyzed through Statistical Package for Social Studies (SPSS) version 25. Simple descriptive analysis computed for demographic characteristics and bi-variable (Chi-square) analysis was carried out to find out the associations of taking vaccine with demographic variables. A p-value of < 0.05 was considered significant at 95% confidence interval. A total of 491 who were completed the inclusion criteria included in the analysis. A small portion of pregnant women (8.6%) illustrated the intent to get the COVID-19 vaccine if it is recommended by the health authorities in Afghanistan. Our study found a high rate of COVID-19 vaccine refusal among pregnant women in Kabul, Afghanistan. They showed the concern on adverse effects of the vaccine as the main reason for refusal, emphasizing the need to reduce the misconception on vaccine efficacy and campaigns to enhance awareness on the vaccine safety and benefits for mothers and babies.
Subtype and cell type specific expression of lncRNAs provide insight into breast cancer
Authors: Bjørklund Sunniva Stordal , Aure Miriam Ragle , Häkkinen Jari , Vallon-Christersson Johan , Kumar Surendra , Evensen Katrine Bull , Fleischer Thomas , Tost Jörg ,   OSBREAC, Bathen Tone F. , Borgen Elin , Børresen-Dale Anne-Lise , Engebråten Olav , Fritzman Britt , Hartmann-Johnsen Olaf Johan , Garred Øystein , Geisler Jürgen , Geitvik Gry Aarum , Hofvind Solveig , Kåresen Rolf , Langerød Anita , Lingjærde Ole Christian , Mælandsmo Gunhild Mari , Naume Bjørn , Russnes Hege G. , Sauer Torill , Skjerven Helle Kristine , Schlichting Ellen , Sørlie Therese , Sahlberg Kristine K. , Mathelier Anthony , Bhanot Gyan , Ganesan Shridar , Tekpli Xavier , Kristensen Vessela N.
Published: August 2022

Long non-coding RNAs (lncRNAs) are involved in breast cancer pathogenesis through chromatin remodeling, transcriptional and post-transcriptional gene regulation. We report robust associations between lncRNA expression and breast cancer clinicopathological features in two population-based cohorts: SCAN-B and TCGA. Using co-expression analysis of lncRNAs with protein coding genes, we discovered three distinct clusters of lncRNAs. In silico cell type deconvolution coupled with single-cell RNA-seq analyses revealed that these three clusters were driven by cell type specific expression of lncRNAs. In one cluster lncRNAs were expressed by cancer cells and were mostly associated with the estrogen signaling pathways. In the two other clusters, lncRNAs were expressed either by immune cells or fibroblasts of the tumor microenvironment. To further investigate the cis-regulatory regions driving lncRNA expression in breast cancer, we identified subtype-specific transcription factor (TF) occupancy at lncRNA promoters. We also integrated lncRNA expression with DNA methylation data to identify long-range regulatory regions for lncRNA which were validated using ChiA-Pet-Pol2 loops. lncRNAs play an important role in shaping the gene regulatory landscape in breast cancer. We provide a detailed subtype and cell type-specific expression of lncRNA, which improves the understanding of underlying transcriptional regulation in breast cancer.
Maternal anxiety affects embryo implantation via impairing adrenergic receptor signaling in decidual cells
Authors: Wu Jinxiang , Lin Shu , Huang Pinxiu , Qiu Lingling , Jiang Yufei , Zhang Ying , Meng Nan , Meng Meiqing , Wang Lemeng , Deng Wenbo , Liu Zhao , Guo Chuanhui , Lu Jinhua , Wang Haibin , Kong Shuangbo
Published: August 2022

Recurrent implantation failure (RIF) is defined as the failed pregnancy after good embryo transfer over 3 cycles during in vitro fertilization (IVF).The human endometrium plays a vital role in providing the site for embryo implantation, with several factors implicated in unsatisfactory endometrial receptivity in RIF. Our present results revealed that women with pregnancy loss or infertility have a higher serum epinephrine level, indicating a potential correlation between psychological stress and pregnancy failure. RNA-sequencing of the tissues collected at the endometrial receptive phase in normal and RIF women showed that stress hormones could affect the functional status of endometrial receptivity. Subsequent analysis revealed that the epinephrine signaling acts as an important regulator of endometrial receptivity through the PI3K-AKT and FOXO1 signaling pathways. We also found that patients with RIF show attenuated expression of the alpha-2C-adrenergic receptor (ADRA2C) and that its down regulation induced by high level epinephrine could inhibit the decidualization. Early pregnant mice treated with stress showed high serum epinephrine levels, defective uterine adrenergic receptor expression, and low pregnancy rates. Altogether, our findings indicate that mental stress during early pregnancy can alter the functional status of endometrial receptivity.
Reassigning the shapes of the 0+ states in the 186Pb nucleus
Authors: Ojala Joonas , Pakarinen Janne , Papadakis Philippos , Sorri Juha , Sandzelius Mikael , Cox Daniel M. , Auranen Kalle , Badran Hussam , Davies Paul J. , Grahn Tuomas , Greenlees Paul T. , Henderson Jack , Herzáň Andrej , Herzberg Rolf-Dietmar , Hilton Joshua , Jakobsson Ulrika , Jenkins David G. , Joss David T. , Julin Rauno , Juutinen Sakari , Kibédi Tibor , Konki Joonas , Lane Gregory J. , Leino Matti , Liimatainen Jarkko , McPeake Christopher G. , Neuvonen Olavi , Page Robert D. , Parr Edward , Partanen Jari , Peura Pauli , Rahkila Panu , Revill John , Ruotsalainen Panu , Sarén Jan , Scholey Catherine , Stolze Sanna , Uusitalo Juha , Ward Andrew , Wadsworth Robert
Published: August 2022

Across the physics disciplines, the 186Pb nucleus is the only known system, where the two first excited states, together with the ground state, form a triplet of zero-spin states assigned with prolate, oblate and spherical shapes. Here we report on a precision measurement where the properties of collective transitions in 186Pb were determined in a simultaneous in-beam γ-ray and electron spectroscopy experiment employing the recoil-decay tagging technique. The feeding of the $${0}_{2}^{+}$$

0

2

+

state and the interband $${2}_{2}^{+}\to {2}_{1}^{+}$$

2

2

+

→

2

1

+

transition have been observed. We also present direct measurement of the energies of the electric monopole transitions from the excited 0+ states to the 0+ ground state. In contrast to the earlier understanding, the obtained reduced transition probability $$B(E2;{2}_{1}^{+}\to {0}_{2}^{+})$$
B

(

E
2
;

2

1

+

→

0

2

+

)

value of 190(80) W.u., the transitional quadrupole moment $$| {Q}_{t}({2}_{1}^{+}\to {0}_{2}^{+})| =7.7$$
∣

Q

t

(

2

1

+

→

0

2

+

)

∣
=
7.7
(33) eb and intensity balance arguments provide evidence to reassign the $${0}_{2}^{+}$$

0

2

+

and $${0}_{3}^{+}$$

0

3

+

states with predominantly prolate and oblate shape, respectively. Our work demonstrates a step-up in experimental sensitivity and paves the way for systematic studies of electric monopole transitions in this region. These electric monopole transitions probe the nuclear volume in a unique manner and provide unexploited input for development of the next-generation energy density functional models.
Particle-associated bacteria differentially influence the aggregation of the marine diatom Minutocellus polymorphus
Authors: Cruz Bianca N , Neuer Susanne
Published: August 2022

The aggregation of phytoplankton leads to the settling of particulate organic carbon in the form of marine snow, making it an important process in marine biogeochemical cycles. Diatoms >20 µm in size are considered to contribute appreciably to sinking particle fluxes due to aggregation and the production of transparent exopolymeric particles (TEP), the matrix for marine snow aggregates; however, it is not known whether nano-sized (2–20 µm) diatoms are able to aggregate and produce TEP. Here, we tested the aggregation and production of TEP by the nano-diatom Minutocellus polymorphus and investigated if interactions with bacteria influence aggregation by comparing axenic M. polymorphus cultures with co-cultures of the diatom with bacterial taxa known to colonize marine snow particles. We found that M. polymorphus form sinking aggregates and produce TEP comparably to other phytoplankton groups and that aggregation and TEP production were influenced depending on the species of bacteria added. Aggregation was enhanced in the presence of Marinobacter adhaerens HP15, but not in the presence of Pseudoalteromonas carrageenovora or Vibrio thalassae. Cell aggregation mediated by interactions with specific bacterial species are possible mechanisms behind the export of nano-sized diatoms, such as M. polymorphus, especially in oligotrophic open ocean regions where small phytoplankton dominate.
The demographic and socioeconomic correlates of behavior and HIV infection status across sub-Saharan Africa
Authors: Patel Chirag J. , Claypool Kajal T. , Chow Eric , Chung Ming-Kei , Mai Don , Chen Jessie , Bendavid Eran
Published: August 2022

Background

Predisposition to become HIV positive (HIV + ) is influenced by a wide range of correlated economic, environmental, demographic, social, and behavioral factors. While evidence among a candidate handful have strong evidence, there is lack of a consensus among the vast array of variables measured in large surveys.

Methods

We performed a comprehensive data-driven search for correlates of HIV positivity in >600,000 participants of the Demographic and Health Survey across 29 sub-Saharan African countries from 2003 to 2017. We associated a total of 7251 and of 6,288 unique variables with HIV positivity in females and males respectively in each of the 50 surveys. We performed a meta-analysis within countries to attain 29 country-specific associations.

Results

Here we identify 344 (5.4% out possible) and 373 (5.1%) associations with HIV + in males and females, respectively, with robust statistical support. The associations are consistent in directionality across countries and sexes. The association sizes among individual correlates and their predictive capability were low to modest, but comparable to established factors. Among the identified associations, variables identifying being head of household among females was identified in 17 countries with a mean odds ratio (OR) of 2.5 (OR range: 1.1–3.5, R2 = 0.01). Other common associations were identified, including marital status, education, age, and ownership of land or livestock.

Conclusions

Our continent-wide search for variables has identified under-recognized variables associated with being HIV + that are consistent across the continent and sex. Many of the association sizes are as high as established risk factors for HIV positivity, including male circumcision.
Field evaluation of the potential effects of polymer and silica-based nanopesticides on strawberries and agricultural soils
Authors: Galhardi Juliana A. , Wang Peiying , Bueno Vinicius , Ghoshal Subhasis , Gravel Valérie , Wilkinson Kevin J. , Bayen Stéphane
Published: August 2022

Field exposition showed low effects of polymer and silica-based nanopesticides on strawberries (bioaccumulation, biometrics) and soils (accumulation, soil enzyme activities).
The adverse effect of heat stress and potential nutritional interventions
Authors: Chen Xinwei , Liu Wanlu , Li He , Zhang Jian , Hu Changli , Liu Xinqi
Published: August 2022

Protein, vitamin, trace element and electrolyte can mitigate heat damage by enhancing the antioxidant system and immune function, promoting heat shock protein expression, and suppressing inflammatory responses.
Precise size-control and functionalization of gold nanoparticles synthesized by plasma–liquid interactions: using carboxylic, amino, and thiol ligands
Authors: Thai Van-Phuoc , Nguyen Hieu Duy , Saito Nobuo , Takahashi Kazumasa , Sasaki Toru , Kikuchi Takashi
Published: August 2022

Precise size control and one-step functionalization for gold nanoparticles synthesized via plasma-liquid interaction have simultaneously been achieved by adding ligands into the precursor.
Four-phonon and electron–phonon scattering effects on thermal properties in two-dimensional 2H-TaS2
Authors: Zhang Yatian , Tong Zhen , Pecchia Alessandro , Yam ChiYung , Dumitrică Traian , Frauenheim Thomas
Published: August 2022

Thermal properties of 2H-TaS2 are investigated using first-principles calculations and the Boltzmann transport equation. Electronic thermal conductivity and four-phonon scattering, which were typically overlooked, are found to be non-negligible.
Charge detection of a quantum dot under different tunneling barrier symmetries and bias voltages
Authors: Li Weijie , Mu Jingwei , Liu Zhi-Hai , Huang Shaoyun , Pan Dong , Chen Yuanjie , Wang Ji-Yin , Zhao Jianhua , Xu H. Q.
Published: August 2022

A coupled quantum dot (QD) containing a target QD and a charge sensor QD was realized. The detection visibility of the charge state transitions in the target QD was shown to be sensitively dependent on the tunnel barrier symmetry of the target QD.
Bio-based epoxy functionalized MQ silicone resins: from synthesis to toughened epoxy composites with good mechanical properties, thermal resistance and transparency
Authors: Zheng Jieyuan , Cai Yuquan , Hu Yang , Zhu Jialong , Wei Jiao , Ma Yuanchuan , Wan Jintao , Fan Hong
Published: August 2022

A series bio-based eugenol silicone resins are synthesized, and EG-1.2MQ shows its good promise as a new green multifunctional additive to well balance the toughness, mechanical properties, transparency, and other properties.
Hyperbranchedvs.linear poly(disulfide) for intracellular drug delivery
Authors: Bera Sukanya , Barman Ranajit , Ghosh Suhrit
Published: August 2022

This communication reports comparative studies between amphiphilic hyperbranched and linear poly(disulfide) with regard to their aggregation and glutathione-responsive intracellular drug delivery.
Multiblock copolymer synthesis via aqueous RAFT polymerization-induced self-assembly (PISA)
Authors: Thompson Steven W. , Guimarães Thiago R. , Zetterlund Per B.
Published: August 2022

Employing RAFT PISA emulsion polymerization to synthesize high molecular weight hexablock multiblock copolymers.
Cucurbit[6]uril-based carbon dots for recognizing l-tryptophan and capecitabine
Authors: Liu Ming , Cen Ran , Lu Ji-Hong , Meng Tie-Hong , Li Chun-Rong , Redshaw Carl , Prior Timothy J. , Tao Zhu , Xiao Xin
Published: August 2022

Fluorescent nitrogen and fluorine doped carbon dots (CDs) were prepared by a hydrothermal method using levofloxacin (LVFX) and cucurbit[6]uril (Q[6]) as the nitrogen and carbon sources, respectively.
Gold(i)-catalyzed diastereo- and enantioselective [4 + 3] cycloadditions: construction of functionalized furano-benzoxepins
Authors: Wang Xunhua , Lv Ruifeng , Li Xiaoxun
Published: August 2022

Highly diastereo- and enantioselective [4 + 3] cycloadditions of 2-(1-alkynyl)-2-alken-1-ones with o-QMs have been realized via a simple chiral gold catalysis, providing facile access to various functionalized furano-benzoxepins.
Non-doped and transition metal-doped CuO nano-powders: structure-physical properties and anti-adhesion activity relationship
Authors: Khlifi N. , Mnif S. , Ben Nasr F. , Fourati N. , Zerrouki C. , Chehimi M. M. , Guermazi H. , Aifa S. , Guermazi S.
Published: August 2022

Bacterial contamination and biofilm formation generate severe problems in many fields.
Fabrication of hydrolase responsive diglycerol based Gemini amphiphiles for dermal drug delivery applications
Authors: Mittal Ayushi , Krishna  , Zabihi Fatemeh , Rancan Fiorenza , Achazi Katharina , Nie Chuanxiong , Vogt Annika , Haag Rainer , Sharma Sunil K.
Published: August 2022

Lipase responsive diglycerol based Gemini amphiphiles have been synthesized via a chemo-enzymatic approach and their application in dermal drug delivery has been explored.
Angle distortion model for predicting enediyne activation towards Bergman cyclization: an alternate to the distance theory
Authors: Bhattacharya Prabuddha , Chakraborty Soham , Balaji Ashwin , Basak Amit
Published: August 2022

Structurally similar enediynes showed decrease in interior proximal bond angles (Pa and Pb) with increase in reactivity. Enediynes with average interior proximal angles [(Pa + Pb)/2] less than 166° undergo cyclization under ambient conditions.
Microwave synthesis of upconverting nanoparticles with bis(2-ethylhexyl) adipate
Authors: Egatz-Gomez Ana , Asher Michaela , Peterson Rozabel , Roldan Manuel A. , Ros Alexandra
Published: August 2022

A mixture of bis(2-ethylhexyl) adipate and oleic acid provides scale-up potential and speedy heating rates in the microwave-assisted organic synthesis of upconverting nanoparticles with tunable size, crystallinity, and hydrophilic character.
Recent developments in hydrogels containing copper and palladium for the catalytic reduction/degradation of organic pollutants
Authors: Dadashi Jaber , Ghasemzadeh Mohammad Ali , Salavati-Niasari Masoud
Published: August 2022

The elimination of toxic and hazardous contaminants from different environmental media has become a global challenge, causing researchers to focus on the treatment of pollutants.
TADF-based NIR-II semiconducting polymer dots for in vivo 3D bone imaging
Authors: Hsu Keng-Fang , Su Shih-Po , Lu Hsiu-Feng , Liu Ming-Ho , Chang Yuan Jay , Lee Yi-Jang , Chiang Huihua Kenny , Hsu Chao-Ping , Lu Chin-Wei , Chan Yang-Hsiang
Published: August 2022

A series of NIR-II fluorescent TADF-incorporated polymer dots were successfully synthesized. The function of the TADF moiety was fully studied and the bio-applications of these polymer dots including bone imaging were also demonstrated.
Highlights from the 55th Bürgenstock Conference on Stereochemistry 2022
Authors: Archambeau Alexis , Delbianco Martina
Published: August 2022

In May 2022, the 55th Bürgenstock Conference on Stereochemistry happened in person once again. This summary provides insight into the scientific themes discussed during the most recent meeting of this historic and multi-disciplinary conference.
Evolution of bismuth-based metal–organic frameworks for efficient electroreduction of CO2
Authors: Li Lili , Kang Xinchen , He Meng , Sheveleva Alena , Hu Kui , Xu Shaojun , Zhou Yiqi , Chen Jin , Sapchenko Sergei , Whitehead George , Vitorica-Yrezabal Iñigo J. , Lopez-Odriozola Laura , Natrajan Louise S. , McInnes Eric J. L. , Schröder Martin , Yang Sihai , Tuna Floriana
Published: August 2022

The impact of porosity of MOFs on their structural evolution during reaction with electrolyte and their use as pre-catalysts for electrochemical reduction of CO2 provide new insights into the design of new MOFs-derived catalysts.
A biofilm microenvironment-responsive one-for-all bactericidal nanoplatform for photothermal-augmented multimodal synergistic therapy of pathogenic bacterial biofilm infection
Authors: Yang Ke , Hai Luo , Wang Zefeng , Li Huan , Yi Wenhua , Luo Yuze , Li Junqin , Deng Le , He Dinggeng
Published: August 2022

We rationally construct a biofilm microenvironment-responsive bactericidal nanoplatform (ZnPMp) consisting of ZnO core, a Fe3+-doped polydopamine coating and methylene blue (MB) payload for combined CT/CDT/PTT/PDT multi-mode antibacterial therapy.
High-performance piezoresistive flexible pressure sensor based on wrinkled microstructures prepared from discarded vinyl records and ultra-thin, transparent polyaniline films for human health monitoring
Authors: Liu Chong , Xu Li , Kong Lingyu , Xu Yuqing , Zhou Wei , Qiang Qinping , Tian Liangliang , Chen Wenbo , Cai Mingsheng , Lang Tianchun , Han Tao , Liu Bitao
Published: August 2022

An ultra-thin, transparent polyaniline film is tightly laminated to a PDMS film with wrinkled microstructures to produce flexible pressure sensors.
Multi‐scale pedestrian detection with global–local attention and multi‐scale receptive field context
Authors: Xue Pan , Chen Houjin , Li Yanfeng , Li Jupeng
Published: August 2022

As a basic component in the field of computer vision, the pedestrian detection plays an essential role in several real‐world applications such as video surveillance. The promising performance has been achieved in pedestrian detection relying on deep learning, but large‐scale variance and small‐scale pedestrian detection remain inherently hard as before. In order to deal with the aforementioned problems, this paper proposes a multi‐scale pedestrian detection method with global–local attention and multi‐scale receptive field context (MRFC). To make the network focus on small‐scale pedestrians, we add a high‐resolution detection branch on the original detector. To better integrate the incongruous semantic feature, the global–local attention module is embedded to highlight the feature representation of pedestrians so as to implement the feature fusion effectively. In order to adapt the receptive field of the network to achieve scale‐variance detection, the MRFC is applied. Based on integrating the above structures, the proposed method achieves competitive results on Caltech and CityPersons datasets. The source code is released in https://github.com/xiaopan999/yolov5‐pedestrian_detection.
A fast calculation method of transient hot spot temperature for the design of dry‐type on‐board transformers
Authors: Guo Lei , Cai Fenglin , Zhu Qiuyue , Yuan Shuai , Wang Dongyang , Zhou Lijun
Published: August 2022

The design of the dry‐type on‐board traction transformer (OBTT), a new lightweight method in the traction system of electric multiple units, needs to consider the transient hot spot temperature (HST) under different railroad line operating conditions. In order to quickly calculate the transient HST of dry‐type OBTT when operating under different railroad line conditions, a calculation method (hereinafter referred to as GP‐HST method) by combining an enhanced genetic programming algorithm (GP) with computational fluid dynamics (CFD) is presented. First, intercept a section from the railroad line to be calculated and use the CFD method to calculate the transient HST of the section railroad line. Then, the enhanced GP modelling is driven by this section of railroad line measured and simulated data. Next, a calculation model with an implicit mathematical correlation between railroad line operating conditions and the dry‐type OBTT transient HST is established. Finally, the calculation model quickly calculates the transient HST of the remaining railroad line in operation. To validate the presented method, the calculation model obtained using the presented method is used to calculate the transient HST for another railroad line with significantly different operating conditions, and it is compared with the direct use of the CFD method. The calculation results show that the GP‐HST method reduces the simulation time of the CFD method from 950 to 0.25 min with a maximum error, mean absolute error, and mean relative error of 1.856 K, 0.778 K, and 0.22%, respectively, for a railroad line with a running time of about half an hour. This shows that the GP‐HST method can effectively help to improve the design efficiency of dry‐type OBTT.
Post fire tensile properties of S355 J2 structural steel welded connections for construction industrial applications
Authors: Balakrishnan M. , Leitão C. , Craveiro D. , Rodrigues D.M. , Santiago A. , da Silva L.S. , Subramanian Chidambaram
Published: August 2022

Constructional steel structure stability during its service and post fire effect on steel after major fire exposure is very detrimental and critical on the parent metal (PM) un-welded region and welded connections. Existing literatures on residual material properties of various constructional steels have exhaustive focused only on the mechanical properties of PM. This paper presents the comparative results of S355 J2 structural steel joints made by GMAW and FCAW after fire exposure up to 900°C. The residual properties were evaluated after elevated temperature fire exposures to 300°C, 600°C and 900°C, respectively. Experimental results shows at 300°C, the residual mechanical properties such as yield strength (YS), ultimate tensile strength (UTS) and hardness revealed small increment, while after 300°C trend follows a detrimental pattern in YS, UTS and hardness irrespective of process used. The increment in strength and hardness properties at 300°C could attribute to the strain hardening and blue brittleness effect on PM and welded connections. Moreover, experimental results confirmed that welded connections obtained from high strength steel grade S355–J2 begin to deteriorate strength at temperatures above 300°C. The reduction in tensile and hardness of post fire condition is analyzed with respect to post fire microstructural changes. The results observed in this study may be useful for constructional steel industries.
Modulators Influencing Medication Alert Acceptance: An Explorative Review
Authors: Bittmann Janina A. , Haefeli Walter E. , Seidling Hanna M.
Published: August 2022

Objectives Clinical decision support systems (CDSSs) use alerts to enhance medication safety and reduce medication error rates. A major challenge of medication alerts is their low acceptance rate, limiting their potential benefit. A structured overview about modulators influencing alert acceptance is lacking. Therefore, we aimed to review and compile qualitative and quantitative modulators of alert acceptance and organize them in a comprehensive model.

Methods In accordance with the PRISMA (Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses) guideline, a literature search in PubMed was started in February 2018 and continued until October 2021. From all included articles, qualitative and quantitative parameters and their impact on alert acceptance were extracted. Related parameters were then grouped into factors, allocated to superordinate determinants, and subsequently further allocated into five categories that were already known to influence alert acceptance.

Results Out of 539 articles, 60 were included. A total of 391 single parameters were extracted (e.g., patients' comorbidity) and grouped into 75 factors (e.g., comorbidity), and 25 determinants (e.g., complexity) were consequently assigned to the predefined five categories, i.e., CDSS, care provider, patient, setting, and involved drug. More than half of all factors were qualitatively assessed (n = 21) or quantitatively inconclusive (n = 19). Furthermore, 33 quantitative factors clearly influenced alert acceptance (positive correlation: e.g., alert type, patients' comorbidity; negative correlation: e.g., number of alerts per care provider, moment of alert display in the workflow). Two factors (alert frequency, laboratory value) showed contradictory effects, meaning that acceptance was significantly influenced both positively and negatively by these factors, depending on the study. Interventional studies have been performed for only 12 factors while all other factors were evaluated descriptively.

Conclusion This review compiles modulators of alert acceptance distinguished by being studied quantitatively or qualitatively and indicates their effect magnitude whenever possible. Additionally, it describes how further research should be designed to comprehensively quantify the effect of alert modulators.
Attitudes to climate change risk: classification of and transitions in the UK population between 2012 and 2020
Authors: Liu Ting , Shryane Nick , Elliot Mark
Published: August 2022

Strategies for achieving carbon emissions goals presuppose changes in individual behaviour, which can be indirectly nudged by interventions or tailored information but ultimately depend upon individual attitudes. Specifically, the perception that climate change is low risk has been identified as a barrier to participation in climate change adaptation and mitigation efforts. Therefore, understanding public attitudes towards climate change risk is an important element of reducing emissions. We applied k-means cluster analysis to explore attitudes to climate change risk in the UK population using data from the UK Household Longitudinal Study, a national survey running from 2009 to present. We identified three distinct attitude clusters: “Sceptical”, “Concerned”, and “Paradoxical” in both waves 4 (from 2012 to 2014) and 10 (from 2018 to 2020) of this survey. The Sceptical cluster tended to deny the seriousness of climate change and the urgency or even the necessity of dealing with it. The Concerned cluster displayed anxiety about climate change risks and supported action to reduce them. The Paradoxical cluster acknowledged the reality of climate change impacts but did not support actions to mitigate them. We further observed statistical associations between cluster membership and the social characteristics of the participants, including sex, age, income, education, and political affiliation. We also found a temporal stability of cluster structure between the two waves. However, the transition matrices indicated a general transition away from the Sceptical and Paradoxical clusters, and toward the Concerned cluster between wave 4 to wave 10. The findings suggest that more tailored public information campaigns regarding climate change risk may be necessary.
Analysis of the operating principle of a dual-armature consequent-pole bearingless flux reversal permanent magnet machine
Authors: Yang YiFei , Zhu XiaoBin
Published: August 2022

This paper proposes a new type of dual-armature alternating pole bearingless magnetic flux reverse permanent magnet machine, which combines the advantages of the alternating pole structure and the dual-armature structure. This machine shows the advantages of high torque density and good fault tolerance, which can not only reduce the number of permanent magnets but also further improve the machine’s torque. It is suitable for use in wind power, aerospace, and other applications. The dual-armature alternating pole bearingless magnetic flux reverse permanent magnet machine is used to improve the torque performance and suspension force. Based on the dual-armature alternating pole magnetic flux reverse machine, by adding an additional set of stator teeth to suspended windings, a new type of dual-armature alternating pole bearingless magnetic flux reverse permanent magnet machine is obtained. The number of permanent magnets is halved, and each permanent magnet has the same polarity. The ferromagnetic pole piece next to the permanent magnet automatically acts as the other pole. Based on the introduction of its related structure, the stator flux, rotor flux, stator back electromotive force, cogging torque, electromagnetic torque, etc., are analyzed. This new machine can reduce the number of permanent magnets and has a higher torque conferring advantages of output capacity and low torque ripple.
Modeling the performance of cold plasma in CO2 splitting using artificial neural networks
Authors: Nazari Roshanak Rafiei , Hajizadeh Kobra
Published: August 2022

Using dielectric barrier discharge reactor (DBD) to convert CO2 has attracted considerable attention, recently. The primary challenge with its industrial use, however, is the eligibility and effectiveness of this technology in CO2 conversion, as well as its cost of energy. In this research use has been made of Artificial Neural Network to investigate the effective factors on a DBD reactor, a unique modern instrument for CO2 conversion. A multilayer perceptron approach of feed-forward back-propagation (BP) has been utilized to increase both the energy and CO2 conversion efficiency (outputs) by modeling the effective factors, such as chamber size, gas flow rate, and plasma-generator power (inputs). The findings revealed that an artificial neural network can be used to explain the eligibility and efficiency. Despite the network’s complexity in terms of input and output parameters, the predicted and actual results were found to be in good agreement. The results showed that multilayer perceptron with structure 3-6-2 was the most suitable (MSE = 0.62 and R2 > 0.99). As a result, the artificial neural network can be utilized as a practical and effective tool in predicting the efficiency of energy and carbon dioxide conversion in a DBD reactor.
Quantum coherence in a superconducting circuit coupled with a dissipative cavity field
Authors: Chen Shixian , Li Xiaojie , Wu Kaixuan , Shi Jiadong
Published: August 2022

Quantum coherence represents a basic feature of a quantum system that is not present in the classical world. Here, we explore the dynamic behaviors of quantum coherence in two charge qubits who are strongly coupled with a single-mode dissipative cavity field. The results show that quantum coherence is sensitive to the coupled system parameters including qubit dissipation rate, initial qubit distribution angle, and coherent state intensity of the cavity field. Additionally, during the dynamic evolution, quantum coherence behaves periodically in the case of the qubit distribution angle, and this periodicity depends on the qubit dissipation rate. Also, the increasing coherent state intensity of cavity field can enhance the magnitude of quantum coherence, meaning that coherence resource in dissipative solid state quantum system can be controlled to some extent. This controllable coherence resource in engineering applications may quantify the advantage enabled in the superconducting circuit for processing the remarkable quantum information tasks.
P43 for manufacturing of large area scintillating screens
Authors: Balakin V. , Meshkov O. , Ulianitsky V. , Rogovsky Yu. , Semenov A. , Ageeva N. , Ivanova S. , Skaballanovich T. , Smirnov A. , Medvedeva K.
Published: August 2022

This paper describes investigation of scintillator P43
coating for large area screens intended for preliminary beam
diagnostics in the Collector Ring (Facility for Antiproton and Ion
Research in Europe). We used two appropriate coating techniques:
detonation spraying and electrophoresis. The article contains short
descriptions of the Collector Ring, screen coating techniques, light
output (with application of electron welding), and vacuum tests. We
also applied SEM to check the structure and chemical composition of
pure P43 powder and scintillation screen samples, prepared by
detonation spraying and electrophoresis coating techniques. As a
result, we observed poor P43 light output after detonation spraying
(the reason is a change in the chemical composition of P43) and poor
ruby and alumina light output in comparison with P43 in the case of
the electrophoresis technique. Improving of the electrophoresis
technique enabled us to reach good adhesion and vacuum properties
without decrease in the light yield.
Novel light field imaging device with enhanced light collection for cold atom clouds
Authors: Cheong S. , Frisch J.C. , Gasiorowski S. , Hogan J.M. , Kagan M. , Safdari M. , Schwartzman A. , Vandegar M.
Published: August 2022

We present a light field imaging system that captures multiple views of an object with a single shot. The system is designed to maximize the total light collection by accepting a larger solid angle of light than a conventional lens with equivalent depth of field. This is achieved by populating a plane of virtual objects using mirrors and fully utilizing the available field of view and depth of field. Simulation results demonstrate that this design is capable of single-shot tomography of objects of size 𝒪(1 mm3), reconstructing the 3-dimensional (3D) distribution and features not accessible from any single view angle in isolation. In particular, for atom clouds used in atom interferometry experiments, the system can reconstruct 3D fringe patterns with size 𝒪(100 μm). We also demonstrate this system with a 3D-printed prototype. The prototype is used to take images of 𝒪(1 mm3) sized objects, and 3D reconstruction algorithms running on a single-shot image successfully reconstruct 𝒪(100 μm) internal features. The prototype also shows that the system can be built with 3D printing technology and hence can be deployed quickly and cost-effectively in experiments with needs for enhanced light collection or 3D reconstruction. Imaging of cold atom clouds in atom interferometry is a key application of this new type of imaging device where enhanced light collection, high depth of field, and 3D tomographic reconstruction can provide new handles to characterize the atom clouds.
Achieving sustainable water and land use systems in highly developed tropical landscapes
Authors: Piffer Pedro Ribeiro , Tambosi Leandro Reverberi , Uriarte María
Published: August 2022

Water quality degradation from human related activities has become a pressing global issue, putting water security at risk around the world. Land use decisions can severely degrade stream water quality, compromising water supply and increasing water treatment costs. Here we examine changes in water quality over 20 years and their association with land use, urbanization, and sewage treatment in the state of São Paulo, Brazil. We also consider how a severe drought in 2014–2015 affected water quality, uncovering the potential impacts of a changing climate on water treatment costs. We analyzed water quality data between 2000 and 2019 from 230 monitoring stations focusing on seven metrics: dissolved oxygen, biological oxygen demand, total nitrogen, total phosphorus, turbidity, total dissolved solids, and fecal coliforms. We first calculated the number of times that metrics exceeded the legal thresholds and then assessed if metrics were improving or deteriorating over time. Across all stations, a large proportion of stream water samples failed to comply to the legal standards for human consumption for at least one water quality metric. This proportion was highest for total dissolved solids (30.7%) and total phosphorus (42.8%), with fewer samples exceeding the threshold for turbidity and dissolved oxygen. Deteriorating water quality trends over time were prevalent for dissolved solids (33.33%) and total nitrogen (52.45%), while dissolved oxygen exhibited the highest percentage of improving trends across watersheds (43.63%). Moreover, we observed that four of the seven metrics analyzed deteriorated during the 2014–2015 drought. Urbanization and agricultural activity led to deterioration of water quality, while improvement in sewage treatment infrastructure improved water quality across watersheds. The decline in water quality observed in the region, especially during the recent drought, highlights the need to develop land use management strategies to protect water quality and reduce growing costs of water treatment in the state.
Effect of reinforcement and sintering on dry sliding wear and hardness of titanium – (AlSi)0.5CoFeNi based composite
Authors: Kumar J Sharath , Raju CH V Satyanarayana , Naik A Balaram , Kumar Rakesh , Verma Rajeev
Published: August 2022

Owing to its weight-to-strength ratio, titanium is a widely used material, especially in gas turbine engines. It possesses a high melting point and corrosion resistance, however, exhibits poor wear resistance. An improvement in its tribological properties can be accomplished by the addition of a suitable reinforcement in metal matrix composite (MMC). In this research, titanium MMCs were fabricated through mechanical alloying (MA) followed by vacuum arc melting of 95% titanium reinforced with 5% of (AlSi)0.5CoFeNi high entropy alloy (HEA). Compaction was later done at 1000 MPa, while specimens were heat-treated at sintering temperatures of 900 °C and 1000 °C, with varying sintering times of 1 h and 2 h at 10–4 millibar vacuum. Microhardness and sliding wear rate of reinforced HEA specimens exuded improvement when compared to the Ti 900 °C 2 h specimen. Owing to the reinforcement, a reduction in wear rate and more than 5% improvement in microhardness had been observed, at higher sintering temperatures. The improvement was attributed to the synergistic effect of sintering time and temperature during the density and wettability analysis which was supported by the morphological analysis.
Recent advances in bio-medical implants; mechanical properties, surface modifications and applications
Authors: Zwawi Mohammed
Published: August 2022

The demand for bio-medical implants has significantly increased to treat different medical conditions and complications. The latest research in medical and material science is paving the path for the new generation of biomedical implants that mimic the natural bone and tissues for enhanced biocompatibility. A bio-medical implant must be bio-compatible, non-toxic and bioactive. The main reasons for implantation are ageing, overweight, accidents and genetic diseases such as arthritis or joint pain. Diseases such as osteoporosis and osteoarthritis can severely damage the mechanical properties of bones over time. Different materials including polymers, ceramics and metals are used for biomedical implants. Metallic implants have high strength and high resistance to corrosion and wear. Biocompatible metallic materials include Ti, Ta, Zr, Mo, Nb, W and Au while materials such as Ni, V, Al and Cr are considered toxic and hazardous to the body. Bioresorbable and degradable materials dissolve in the body after the healing process. Mg-based metallic alloys are highly degradable in the biological environment. Similarly, different polymers such as Poly-lactic acid (PLA) are used as bio-degradable implants and in tissue engineering. Biodegradable stents are used for the slow release of drugs to avoid blood clotting and other complications. Shape memory alloys are employed for bio-implants due to their unique set of properties. Different surface physical and chemical modification methods are used to improve the interfacial properties and interaction of implant materials with the biological environment. This review explains the properties, materials, modifications and shortcomings of bio-implants.
P2-type layered high-entropy oxides as sodium-ion cathode materials
Authors: Wang Junbo , Dreyer Sören L , Wang Kai , Ding Ziming , Diemant Thomas , Karkera Guruprakash , Ma Yanjiao , Sarkar Abhishek , Zhou Bei , Gorbunov Mikhail V , Omar Ahmad , Mikhailova Daria , Presser Volker , Fichtner Maximilian , Hahn Horst , Brezesinski Torsten , Breitung Ben , Wang Qingsong
Published: August 2022

P2-type layered oxides with the general Na-deficient composition Na
x
TMO2 (x < 1, TM: transition metal) are a promising class of cathode materials for sodium-ion batteries. The open Na+ transport pathways present in the structure lead to low diffusion barriers and enable high charge/discharge rates. However, a phase transition from P2 to O2 structure occurring above 4.2 V and metal dissolution at low potentials upon discharge results in rapid capacity degradation. In this work, we demonstrate the positive effect of configurational entropy on the stability of the crystal structure during battery operation. Three different compositions of layered P2-type oxides were synthesized by solid-state chemistry, Na0.67(Mn0.55Ni0.21Co0.24)O2, Na0.67(Mn0.45Ni0.18Co0.24Ti0.1Mg0.03)O2 and Na0.67(Mn0.45Ni0.18Co0.18Ti0.1Mg0.03Al0.04Fe0.02)O2 with low, medium and high configurational entropy, respectively. The high-entropy cathode material shows lower structural transformation and Mn dissolution upon cycling in a wide voltage range from 1.5 to 4.6 V. Advanced operando techniques and post-mortem analysis were used to probe the underlying reaction mechanism thoroughly. Overall, the high-entropy strategy is a promising route for improving the electrochemical performance of P2 layered oxide cathodes for advanced sodium-ion battery applications.
Advanced atomic force microscopies and their applications in two-dimensional materials: a review
Authors: Xu Rui , Guo Jianfeng , Mi Shuo , Wen Huanfei , Pang Fei , Ji Wei , Cheng Zhihai
Published: August 2022

Scanning probe microscopy (SPM) allows the spatial imaging, measurement, and manipulation of nano and atomic scale surfaces in real space. In the last two decades, numerous advanced and functional SPM methods, particularly atomic force microscopy (AFM), have been developed and applied in various research fields, from mapping sample morphology to measuring physical properties. Herein, we review the recent progress in functional AFM methods and their applications in studies of two-dimensional (2D) materials, particularly their interfacial physical properties on the substrates. This review can inspire more exciting application works using advanced AFM modes in the 2D and functional materials fields.