bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Design of Novel Online Access and Control Interface for Remote Experiment on DC Drives
Authors: A.P Jagadeesh Chandra , R.D Sudhaker Samuel
Published: May 2009

Internet has revolutionized the way in which the information is delivered. Laboratory based courses play an important role in technical education. Automation is changing the nature of these laboratories and the system designerâ??s focus on Internet accessed experiments owing to the availability of several tools to integrate electronic and mechanical hardware with the World Wide Web. Stand-alone approaches in remote learning have grown tremendously in the recent years. One of the important components in remote experimentation is the integration of Virtual Instruments to perform real hardware tasks in near real-time. The paper describes a web interface to the electrical hardware and integration of LabVIEW Virtual Instruments to the remote access and control of DC Drives. Customized electrical hardware serves as the web interface, supporting various features to remotely control and measure the parameters of the electrical machine. Novel techniques have been used to interface a low power data acquisition system with the DC machine driven by the AC power supply. The system uses the client-server architecture to access the web page of the Virtual Instruments through web browser. The developed system imitates the real control of experiment hardware, but being operated remotely through Internet.
Frequency of Guideline-Discordant Prostate Cancer Screening Among Older Males
Authors: Kensler Kevin H. , Mao Jialin , Davuluri Meenakshi
Published: April 2024

This cross-sectional study examines the association of life expectancy and prostate cancer screening practices among older males using data from a national survey.
Evidence for partial functional overlap of KEA and MSL transport proteins in the chloroplast inner envelope of Arabidopsis thaliana
Authors: Völkner Carsten , Holzner Lorenz J. , Bünger Katinka , Szulc Beata , Lewis Chance M. , Klingl Andreas , Kunz Hans‐Henning
Published: April 2024

Arabidopsis thaliana possesses two different ion‐export mechanisms in the plastid inner envelope membrane. Due to a genome duplication, the transport proteins are encoded by partly redundant loci: K+‐efflux antiporter1 (KEA1) and KEA2 and mechanosensitive channel of small conductance‐like2 (MSL2) and MSL3. Thus far, a functional link between these two mechanisms has not been established. Here, we show that kea1msl2 loss‐of‐function mutants exhibit phenotypes such as slow growth, reduced photosynthesis and changes in chloroplast morphology, several of which are distinct from either single mutants and do not resemble kea1kea2 or msl2msl3 double mutants. Our data suggest that KEA1 and MSL2 function in concert to maintain plastid ion homeostasis and osmoregulation. Their interplay is critical for proper chloroplast development, organelle function, and plant performance.
Preparation, Microstructure, and Mechanical Properties of Al Matrix Composites Reinforced with High‐Entropy Alloys: A Review
Authors: Ren Guochun , Zheng Yang , Zhao Zihao , Xiong Ruize , Zhao Cenya , Yu Zhenyang , Li Liangyu
Published: April 2024

Al matrix composites (AMCs) are innovative materials prepared by introducing various reinforcements into Al alloys using suitable processes. Traditional particle‐reinforced AMCs usually have high strength but poor interfacial bonding, resulting in low plasticity. Researchers are attempting to solve this problem by identifying more proper reinforcing particles. High‐entropy alloys (HEAs) with excellent mechanical properties including high strength, ductility, and wear resistance are becoming attractive candidates for the reinforcement of Al alloys. The HEAs‐reinforced AMCs (HEAs@AMCs) combine the lightweight property of Al alloys and superior mechanical properties of HEAs. In this article, a comprehensive overview is provided on the HEAs@AMCs, starting with an introduction to the properties of HEAs, followed by the design principle of HEAs for the metal matrix composites. After that, the preparation, microstructure, and mechanical properties of the HEAs@AMCs are examined. In addition, the effects of HEAs on the microstructure and mechanical properties of the HEAs@AMCs are explored.
Cation Framework Nanowires Enabling Composite Solid‐State Electrolyte with Anion Exchange Platform for Rapid Li+ Conduction
Authors: Hu Xinkuan , Cheng Yu , Dong Guangyao , Dong Chenhui , Zhang Hong , Xie Jun , Xu Lin
Published: April 2024

All‐solid‐state lithium metal batteries (ASSLMBs) have attracted significant attention due to their high energy density and improved safety performance. However, the application of ASSLMBs in energy storage fields is hindered by their low ionic conductivity, which arises from the limited availability of free Li+ in composite solid‐state electrolytes (CSEs). Herein, a unique nanowire with the 3D cation framework is employed as an inorganic filler to increase the availability of free Li+ with the anion exchange platform. The cation framework with active Cl− can serve as the exchange platform to attract the TFSI−, thereby promoting the dissociation of LiTFSI and the release of additional free Li+. Furthermore, cation framework nanowires exhibit the stable framework structure and highly ordered channels, which form the 1D continuous organic–inorganic interface, facilitating the practical pathways for directional Li+ conduction. As a result, the YBFPL electrolyte exhibits the high ionic conductivity (0.267 mS cm−1) at room temperature, the high Li+ transference number (0.63), and the more mobile Li+ ratio (40%). This study designs the 1D continuous cation framework nanostructure, which realizes the rapid Li+ transport through the anion exchange platform at the organic and inorganic interface.
Transpiration‐Inspired Fabric Dressing for Acceleration Healing of Wound Infected with Biofilm
Authors: Zhang Zhicheng , Ma Junjie , Xu Tao , Wang Tao , Jia Xueying , Lin Jiawei , Lv Chang , Cao Liang , Ying Yulong , Ji Lvlv , Wang Sheng , Fu Caiyun
Published: April 2024

In chronic wound management, efficacious handling of exudate and bacterial infections stands as a paramount challenge. Here a novel biomimetic fabric, inspired by the natural transpiration mechanisms in plants, is introduced. Uniquely, the fabric combines a commercial polyethylene terephthalate (PET) fabric with asymmetrically grown 1D rutile titanium dioxide (TiO2) micro/nanostructures, emulating critical plant features: hierarchically porous networks and hydrophilic water conduction channels. This structure endows the fabric with exceptional antigravity wicking‐evaporation performance, evidenced by a 780% one‐way transport capability and a 0.75 g h−1 water evaporation rate, which significantly surpasses that of conventional moisture‐wicking textiles. Moreover, the incorporated 1D rutile TiO2 micro/nanostructures present solar‐light induced antibacterial activity, crucial for disrupting and eradicating wound biofilms. The biomimetic transpiration fabric is employed to drain exudate and eradicate biofilms in Staphylococcus aureus (S. aureus)‐infected wounds, demonstrating a much faster infection eradication capability compared to clinically common ciprofloxacin irrigation. These findings illuminate the path for developing high‐performance, textile‐based wound dressings, offering efficient clinical platforms to combat biofilms associated with chronic wounds.
Visualizing the Internal Nanocrystallinity of Calcite Due to Nonclassical Crystallization by 3D Coherent X‐Ray Diffraction Imaging
Authors: Suzana Ana F. , Lee Sang Soo , Calvo‐Almazán Irene , Cha Wonsuk , Harder Ross , Fenter Paul
Published: April 2024

The internal crystallinity of calcite is investigated for samples synthesized using two approaches: precipitation from solution and the ammonium carbonate diffusion method. Scanning electron microscopy (SEM) analyses reveal that the calcite products precipitated using both approaches have a well‐defined rhombohedron shape, consistent with the euhedral crystal habit of the mineral. The internal structure of these calcite crystals is characterized using Bragg coherent diffraction imaging (BCDI) to determine the 3D electron density and the atomic displacement field. BCDI reconstructions for crystals synthesized using the ammonium carbonate diffusion approach have the expected euhedral shape, with internal strain fields and few internal defects. In contrast, the crystals synthesized by precipitation from solution have very complex external shapes and defective internal structures, presenting null electron density regions and pronounced displacement field distributions. These heterogeneities are interpreted as multiple crystalline domains, created by a nonclassical crystallization mechanism, where smaller nanoparticles coalescence into the final euhedral particles. The combined use of SEM, X‐ray diffraction (XRD), and BCDI allows for structurally differentiating calcite crystals grown with different approaches, opening new opportunities to understand how grain boundaries and internal defects alter calcite reactivity.
Optical‐Cavity‐Incorporated Colorful All‐Solid‐State Electrochromic Devices for Dual Anti‐Counterfeiting
Authors: Zhang Taoyang , Mu Xinyang , Li Yaowu , Cong Shan , Zheng Shunan , Huang Rong , Geng Fengxia , Zhao Zhigang
Published: April 2024

The fusion of electrochromic technology with optical resonant cavities presents an intriguing innovation in the electrochromic field. However, this fusion is mainly achieved in liquid electrolyte‐based or sol–gel electrolyte‐based electrochromic devices, but not in all‐solid‐state electrochromic devices, which have broader industrial applications. Here, a new all‐solid‐state electrochromic device is demonstrated with a metal–dielectric–metal (MDM) resonant cavity, which can achieve strong thin‐film interference effects through resonance, enabling the device to achieve unique structural colors that have rarely appeared in reported all‐solid‐state electrochromic devices, such as yellow green, purple, and light red. The color gamut of the device can be further expanded due to the adjustable optical constants of the electrochromic layer. What is more, this device exhibits remarkable cycling stability (maintaining 84% modulation capability after 7200 cycles), rapid switching time (coloration in 2.6 s and bleaching in 2.8 s), and excellent optical memory effect (only increasing by 13.8% after almost 36 000 s). In addition, this exquisite structural design has dual‐responsive anti‐counterfeiting effects based on voltage and angle, further demonstrating the powerful color modulation capability of this device.
Capillarity‐Driven Enrichment and Hydrodynamic Trapping of Trace Nucleic Acids by Plasmonic Cavity Membrane for Rapid and Sensitive Detections
Authors: Whang Keumrai , Min Junwon , Shin Yonghee , Hwang Inhyeok , Lee Hyunjoo , Kwak Taejin , La Ju A. , Kim Sungbong , Kim Dongchoul , Lee Luke P. , Kang Taewook
Published: April 2024

Small‐reactor‐based polymerase chain reaction (PCR) has attracted considerable attention. A significant number of tiny reactors must be prepared in parallel to capture, amplify, and accurately quantify few target genes in clinically relevant large volume, which, however, requires sophisticated microfabrication and longer sample‐to‐answer time. Here, single plasmonic cavity membrane is reported that not only enriches and captures few nucleic acids by taking advantage of both capillarity and hydrodynamic trapping but also quickly amplifies them for sensitive plasmonic detection. The plasmonic cavity membrane with few nanoliters in a void volume is fabricated by self‐assembling gold nanorods with SiO2 tips. Simulations reveal that hydrodynamic stagnation between the SiO2 tips is mainly responsible for the trapping of the nucleic acid in the membrane. Finally, it is shown that the plasmonic cavity membrane is capable of enriching severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS‐CoV‐2) genes up to 20 000‐fold within 1 min, amplifying within 3 min, and detecting the trace genes as low as a single copy µL−1. It is anticipated that this work not only expands the utility of PCR but also provides an innovative way of the enrichment and detection of trace biomolecules in a variety of point‐of‐care testing applications.
Understanding and Weakening Photon Recycling in Solar Cells to Approach the Radiative Limit
Authors: Zheng Haofeng , Liu Qi , Wang Yanlong , Hu Jing , Zou Dechun , Hou Shaocong
Published: April 2024

Photon recycling plays an important role in the light outcoupling of state‐of‐the‐art solar cells and is considered a necessary condition to achieve the radiative limit of open‐circuit voltage (VOC) and efficiency. However, due to the impact of photon recycling on bulk and surface radiation of solar cells being overlooked, experimental demonstrations on the accuracy of existing photon recycling models are scarce and some contrary theoretical results also emerge. Here, the relationship between photon recycling and radiation processes, as well as the corresponding VOC losses of solar cells based on the principle of detailed balance is clarified. It is shown that weakening photon recycling is more effective to boost the device performance than enhancing it, promoting the theoretical efficiencies of solar cells, such as perovskite, Si, and GaAs, to 98.5%, 94.9%, and almost 100% of their radiative limit, respectively. Moreover, weakening photon recycling also helps to maintain higher efficiency when the internal radiative efficiency decreases, which benefits higher device stability. This work provides an in‐depth understanding of the role of photon recycling in solar cells and helps to push efficiency to a new limit.
Surface Engineering of Tin Oxide Nanoparticles by pH Modulation Facilitates Homogeneous Film Formation for Efficient Perovskite Solar Modules
Authors: Yun Hyun‐Sung , Seo You‐Hyun , Seo Chae‐Eun , Kim Hyun Seo , Yoo Soo Bin , Kang Bong Joo , Jeon Nam Joong , Jung Eui Hyuk
Published: April 2024

Uniform film deposition over an entire substrate is indispensable to achieve efficient perovskite solar modules (PSMs) by minimizing the gap with high‐performance perovskite solar cells (PSCs). Only a few microscopic pinholes on the film in PSMs directly give rise to debase the performance and stimulate the degradation of the devices. Herein, a strategy of the homogeneous and defect‐reduced electron‐transport layer for high‐performance PSMs is reported. pH modulation of tin oxide (SnO2) nanoparticles colloidal dispersion by a small amount of nitric acid (HNO3) addition leads to the removal of hydroxy groups on the SnO2 surface acting as electronic defects as well as superb regularity of the thin films by forming a network of the SnO2 nanoparticles. The surface engineering of SnO2 nanoparticles brings out the high performance of 23.7% efficiency for a unit cell, 20.3% efficiency for a 24.5 cm2 minimodule, and 19.0% efficiency for a 214.7 cm2 submodule, respectively, where all efficiencies are averaged from results obtained by the reverse/forward scan. In outdoor tests with the submodules, a target PSM generates 16.5% higher cumulative electricity for a month as compared to a control PSM. Furthermore, under damp heat environments, the target PSM maintains 80% efficiency compared to an initial efficiency of 1080 h.
Quantifying soil microbial effects on plant species coexistence: A conceptual synthesis
Authors: Kandlikar Gaurav S.
Published: April 2024

Soil microorganisms play a critical role in shaping the biodiversity dynamics of plant communities. These microbial effects can arise through direct mediation of plant fitness by pathogens and mutualists, and over the past two decades, numerous studies have shined a spotlight on the role of dynamic feedbacks between plants and soil microorganisms as key determinants of plant species coexistence. Such feedbacks occur when plants modify the composition of the soil community, which in turn affects plant performance. Stimulated by a theoretical model developed in the 1990s, a bulk of the empirical evidence for microbial controls over plant coexistence comes from experiments that quantify plant growth in soil communities that were previously conditioned by conspecific or heterospecific plants. These studies have revealed that soil microbes can generate strong negative to positive frequency‐dependent dynamics among plants. Even as soil microbes have become recognized as a key player in determining plant coexistence outcomes, the past few years have seen a renewed interest in expanding the conceptual foundations of this field. New results include re‐interpretations of key metrics from classic two‐species models, extensions of plant–soil feedback theory to multispecies communities, and frameworks to integrate plant–soil feedbacks with processes like intra‐ and interspecific competition. Here, I review the implications of theoretical developments for interpreting existing empirical results and highlight proposed analyses and designs for future experiments that can enable a more complete understanding of microbial regulation of plant community dynamics.
Acyclic Cucurbit[n]uril Receptors Function as Solid State Sequestrants for Organic Micropollutants
Authors: Perera Suvenika , Shaurya Alok , Baptiste Michael , Zavalij Peter Y. , Isaacs Lyle
Published: April 2024

The accumulation of organic micropollutants (OMP) in aquatic systems is a major societal problem that can be addressed by approaches including nanofiltration, flocculation, reverse osmosis and adsorptive methods using insoluble materials (e.g. activated carbon, MOFs, nanocomposites). More recently, polymeric versions of supramolecular hosts (e.g. cyclodextrins, calixarenes, pillararenes) have been investigated as OMP sequestrants. Herein, we report our study of the use of water insoluble dimethylcatechol walled acyclic cucurbit[n]uril (CB[n]) hosts as solid state sequestrants for a panel of five OMPs. A series of hosts (H1–H4) were synthesized by reaction of glycoluril oligomer (monomer–tetramer) with 3,6‐dimethylcatechol and fully characterized by spectroscopic means and x‐ray crystallography. The solid hosts sequester OMPs from water with removal efficiencies exceeding 90 % in some cases. The removal efficiencies of the new hosts parallel the known molecular recognition properties of analogous water soluble acyclic CB[n]. OMP uptake by solid host occurs rapidly (≈120 seconds). Head‐to‐head comparison with CB[6] in batch‐mode separation and DARCO activated carbon in flow‐through separation mode show that tetramer derived host (H4) performs very well under identical conditions. The work establishes insoluble acyclic CB[n]‐type receptors as a promising new platform for OMP sequestration.
Guidelines in Practice: A Safe Environment of Care
Authors: Kneisley Melissa
Published: April 2024

Creating a safe environment for performing surgical procedures is essential to achieve successful patient outcomes and protect the perioperative personnel who are providing care. Numerous factors challenge the provision of a safe environment of care and create a complex setting for perioperative nurses to manage. The updated AORN “Guideline for a safe environment of care” provides perioperative nurses with recommendations for establishing a safe environment for both patients and personnel. This article provides an overview of the guideline and discusses recommendations for implementing fire safety protocols, using warming cabinets, and creating a latex‐safe environment. It also includes a scenario describing the care of a patient with an unidentified latex allergy who is undergoing a laparoscopic sleeve gastrectomy and hiatal hernia repair. Perioperative nurses should review the guideline in its entirety and implement recommendations as applicable in operative and other procedural settings.
A Quality Improvement Project to Increase Compliance With a Facility Protocol on Surgical Antimicrobial Prophylaxis
Authors: Wysocki Kimberly , Zedreck Gonzalez Judith F. , Ren Dianxu
Published: April 2024

Surgical site infections (SSIs) contribute to negative outcomes for patients and health care organizations. Compliance with clinical practice guidelines likely can help prevent SSIs. An interdisciplinary team at a regional referral center in Michigan sought to reduce SSIs by improving compliance with the facility's preoperative antibiotic selection, dosing, timing, and redosing protocol. The interventions for the quality improvement project included adding the preprocedural antibiotics and doses to the master OR schedule; holding an education session for all preoperative nurses, intraoperative nurses, and anesthesia professionals; and posting a reference guide in the preoperative and intraoperative areas. Compliance with the facility's protocol for antibiotic selection, dosing, and timing significantly improved. However, SSI rates and compliance with redosing recommendations did not change significantly. The team decided to add the antibiotic order information to the master OR schedule permanently. The team plans to consider providing education sessions on administering preprocedural antibiotics outside the OR.
Reliability and validity of the Japanese version of the camouflaging autistic traits questionnaire
Authors: Hongo Minako , Oshima Fumiyo , Guan Siqing , Takahashi Toru , Nitta Yusuke , Seto Mikuko , Hull Laura , Mandy William , Ohtani Toshiyuki , Tamura Masaki , Shimizu Eiji
Published: April 2024

This study investigated the factor structure and determined the reliability and validity of the Camouflaging Autistic Traits Questionnaire–Japanese version (CAT‐Q‐J) among 204 autistic and 410 non‐autistic people. Since a confirmatory factor analysis revealed no factor validity of the CAT‐Q‐J for both autistic and non‐autistic adults, an exploratory factor analysis was conducted to ensure the psychometric properties matched those of the original scale as much as possible. The results showed the CAT‐Q‐J comprised three subscales, a four‐item compensation subscale, a five‐item masking scale, and a five‐item assimilation subscale. The overall CAT‐Q‐J and all three subscales showed sufficient internal consistency and moderate‐to‐good and stable test–retest reliability in both the autistic and non‐autistic samples. Convergent validity was also supported by the correlations found with measures of autistic traits, well‐being, anxiety, and depression. Different from the original CAT‐Q, compensation/masking for the autistic sample was not correlated with mental health or autistic traits. The reliability and the validity of the overall CAT‐Q‐J were confirmed; however, caution should be exercised when interpreting its subscales.
Recent advances in biomimetic aggregation‐induced emission photosensitizers for photodynamic therapy and immunotherapy
Authors: Guo Shuai , Tang Hui , Zhang Yahui , Wang Zhouyu , Tan Swee Ching
Published: April 2024

The development of novel photosensitizers (PSs) with aggregation‐induced emission (AIE) properties has emerged as a crucial advancement in the field of photodynamic therapy (PDT). However, the versatile applications of AIE PSs are limited by low encapsulation efficiency and inadequate target tissue permeability. Biomimetic technology stands out as a promising strategy to overcome these challenges, aiming to enhance AIE PSs tumor penetration efficacy, and their association with antitumor immune responses. In this review, recent advancements in biomimetic AIE PSs for PDT and immunotherapy are summarized. We start with introducing strategies involving biomimetic AIE PSs based on cell membranes and extracellular vesicles for the combined application of PDT and immunotherapy. We then discuss the preparation of biomimetic AIE PSs nanoparticles. Finally, we briefly outline the challenges and prospects associated with biomimetic AIE PSs.
Incidence, progression, and predictors of left atrial appendage sealing after Watchman FLX device implantation with computed tomographic assessment
Authors: Yoon Sung‐Han , Amoah Joseph Kofi , Galo Jason , Dallan Luis Augusto Palma , Arruda Mauricio , Rashid Imran , Rajagopalan Sanjay , Filby Steven J.
Published: April 2024

Background

Limited data exists regarding incidence, progression, and predictors of left atrial appendage (LAA) sealing after transcatheter LAA closure. We aimed to evaluate the incidence, progression, and predictive factors associated with LAA sealing after LAA closure.

Methods

This study includes patients who underwent successful LAA closure with Watchman FLX device and had both pre‐ and postprocedural computed tomography (CT). Postprocedural CT was performed 45 days after LAA closure and used to evaluate residual LAA patency. Patient who had residual LAA patency at 45 days underwent 1‐year follow‐up CT.

Results

A total of 105 patients (mean age: 75.2 ± 9.6 years; 53.3% female) who underwent successful LAA closure with Watchman FLX device and had pre‐ and postprocedural CT at 45 days were included. Residual patency was observed in 35 (33.3%) patients: 21 (20.0%) patients showed complete contrast opacification in LAA (complete LAA patency) while 14 (13.3%) patients showed contrast opacification only in the distal LAA (distal LAA patency). Among patients with residual LAA patency at 45 days, the rate of LAA sealing at 1 year was significantly higher in the distal LAA patency group than in the complete LAA patency group (75.0% vs. 16.7%;p = 0.019). Increased depth oversizing was associated with both distal LAA patency and complete LAA patency.

Conclusion

Postprocedural CT at 45 days detected patent LAA in one‐third of patients after LAA closure. LAA sealing was more frequently observed at 1 year among the distal LAA patency group than the complete LAA patency group.
PdSnW Ternary Alloy Nanoparticle with Excellent CO Anti‐Poisoning Activity for Boosting Alkaline Ethanol Oxidation Reaction
Authors: Chen Jianpo , Tan Xiaohong , He Weidong , Guo Yingying , Xiao Yuhang , Cui Hao , Wang Chengxin
Published: April 2024

Efficient ethanol oxidation reaction (EOR) catalysts with anti‐poisoning ability and high selectivity are in high demand for the widespread application of direct ethanol fuel cells (DEFCs). Here, the PdSnW ternary alloy nanoparticles are synthesized by a facile solvothermal method and exhibit an enhanced EOR catalytic performance. CO stripping experiment, X‐ray photoelectron spectroscopy and in situ Fourier transform infrared are employed to study the correlation between catalyst structure and EOR catalytic performance. The oxyphilic Sn and W not only provide dangling O−H bond, accelerating the subsequent oxidation of adsorbed intermediate CO species, but also moderate the electron state of Pd, enhancing the adsorption of CH3CH2OH, thus resulting in the promotion of C−C bond cleavage and an increased C1 selectivity. As a consequence, PdSnW alloy nanoparticle catalyst exhibit a better stability and a higher mass activity than those of Pd/C, PdSn and PdW, respectively. This work not only offers novel insights to strategically design highly efficient electrocatalysts for ethanol oxidation, but also further clarifies the inherent structure‐activity relationship.
Oxime Palladacycle Supported on Magnetic Meoporous Silica: An Efficient Catalyst for Copper‐Free Acyl Sonogashira Reaction
Authors: Ghahramani Fatemeh , Mansoori Yagoub , John Michael
Published: April 2024

The catalytic activity of the supported bis(oxime palladacycle) catalyst was evaluated in the acyl Sonogashira reaction. The reaction conditions, such as solvent, base, and palladium content, were screened to achieve the best catalytic performance. Tetrahydrofuran (THF) solvent, triethylamine (Et3N) base, and the reaction temperature of 110 °C were found to be ideal for achieving high yields of the desired products. Furthermore, a catalyst loading of only 0.22 mol% palladium was sufficient to achieve good conversion. Broad ranges of aryl acetylenes and benzoyl chlorides were successfully coupled to give the desired acetylenic ketones. The reaction appeared to proceed efficiently using a small amount of catalyst. The magnetic property of the catalyst allowed for easy separation using an external magnet. The catalyst was stable and reused for multiple reaction runs without a significant deactivation. After seven cycles, the catalyst maintained over 90 % of its initial catalytic activity.
A 2.41 ppm/°C bandgap voltage reference with second‐order curvature compensation
Authors: Jia Shichao , Ye Tianchun , Xiao Shimao
Published: April 2024

A current‐mode (CM) bandgap voltage reference (BGR) with second‐order curvature compensation is presented in this paper. The proposed CM BGR offers a simple compensation structure that requires only six additional transistors compared with traditional BGR designs, making it an attractive solution for low temperature coefficient (TC) voltage references. Proportional to absolute temperature (PTAT) current digital‐to‐analog converters (DACs) are used to suppress the effect of process variation and device mismatch on TC. The compensation signal is generated using the voltage difference of two bipolar junction transistor (BJT) emitter–bases whose currents are the sum and difference of the PTAT current and the zero to absolute temperature (ZTAT) current, respectively. The proposed CM BGR is designed with 0.18‐μm BIPOLAR CMOS DMOS process. A TC is 2.41 ppm/°C over a wide temperature range of −40°C to 150°C. The linear sensitivity of the supply voltage from 1.2 to 2 V is 0.027%/V. With an active area of 0.0721 mm2, it consumes 68 μA at room temperature. The integrated output noise from 0.1 to 10 Hz is 21.9 μV.
Blocker tolerant cascode LNA for Wifi & IoT applications
Authors: Das S. Mohan , Ramanaiah Kota Venkata
Published: April 2024

Within the domain of contemporary wireless communication systems, crafting Low‐Noise Amplifiers (LNA) holds a pivotal significance in achieving heightened signal sensitivity and comprehensive system efficacy and suppresses noise contributions from subsequent stages. Additionally, the low noise figure (NF) and high gain are critical LNA performance parameters in portable applications. Normally, LNA contains issues in noise performance, amplification, bandwidth, gain, and stability. To overcome these challenges, there must be a proper selection of transistors, harmonious impedance calibration, bias optimization, and circuit fine‐tuning. Moreover, metal oxide semiconductor field effect transistors (MOSFETs) are a popular choice in LNA design because of their excellent noise performance, high input impedance, complementary metal‐oxide semiconductor (CMOS) integration capabilities, low power operation, and suitability for a wide range of frequency applications. Through simulation and iterative enhancement, the LNA showcases remarkable Noise Figure, amplification, and linearity over a designated frequency span. This creation contributes to the advancement of radio frequency (RF) circuitry by designing an approach for LNA crafting that harmonizes conflicting prerequisites and unveils effective noise mitigation tactics. The outcomes emphasize the importance of a deliberated circuit architecture and parameter adjustment in accomplishing superlative LNA capabilities, rendering it fit for assimilation into diverse communication systems that demand minimal noise and heightened sensitivity.
Cytopathology fellowship and practice: Are our trainees and cytopathologists diverse?
Authors: Fitzhugh Valerie A.
Published: April 2024

Over the last several years, there has been increased focus on diversity, equity, and inclusion within all areas of pathology and laboratory medicine. Many of the specialty societies within pathology have taken up the mantle of diversity. While there is little research into the diversity of cytopathologists in practice, the Accreditation Council for Graduate Medical Education (ACGME) has been collecting diversity data on pathology and laboratory medicine trainees since 2011. This data are an opportunity to explore how diverse our trainees in cytopathology are, and by extrapolation, allows us to develop some ideas as to how diverse attending level cytopathologists are. The author will also share personal observations from her own training and career regarding diversity in cytopathology.
A Self‐Assembly of New Cobalt Coordinating Polymer Based on Fluorinated Secondary Building Unit and Pyrazine
Authors: Buzoverov. Mikhail E. , Lermontova Elmira Kh. , Volkova Olga S. , Vorobyova Anna A. , Glazunova Tatyana Yu.
Published: April 2024

The direct two‐step synthesis of new coordination polymer [Co2(pyz)(tfa)2(dmf)6(H2O)][Co3(μ3‐F)(tfa)6(pyz)(dmf)]2 ⋅ 2dmf, (where pyz=pyrazine, Htfa=trifluoroacetic acid, dmf=dimethyl formamide) containing the fluoro‐centered secondary building block [Co3(μ3‐F)(tfa)6], is reported. The substance characterization using single‐crystal XRD, powder XRD, IR‐spectroscopy and thermogravimetry was performed. SCXRD data revealed the presence of cationic and anionic subsystems, both containing cobalt(II) ions and pyrazine bridging ligands. The magnetic proper‐ties of the compound were collected and discussed. Temperature dependence of magnetic susceptibility shows Curie–Weiss like behavior at all studied temperatures.
Prediction of plugging formulation based on PSO‐BP optimization neural network
Authors: Wang Xudong , Chen Ye , Huang Mei , Zeng Bo , Li Zhengtao , Su Junlin , Zhang Yuchen
Published: April 2024

In the context of drilling operations, the study investigated the ability of a combination of rigid mineral particles and composite plugging agents to seal simulated cracks effectively. The study used a neural network model to predict the outcomes of experiments using this combination, based on data collected during the research. Initially, a backpropagation (BP) neural network was used to establish the prediction model, which was later optimized using the particle swarm optimization (PSO) algorithm to improve its accuracy, stability, and learning abilities. As a result, the optimized prediction model was found to be capable of providing accurate and compliant drilling plugging formulas quickly. This feature helped guide targeted formula experiments and significantly reduced experimental time and costs. In five practices in a well area in the southern Sichuan region of China, the application success rate was as high as 60%, and the time spent on plugging was reduced by an average of 36%. Overall, this study contributes to the development of effective and efficient drilling techniques, which are essential in the exploration and production of hydrocarbon resources.
Crack detection based on attention mechanism with YOLOv5
Authors: Lan Min‐Li , Yang Dan , Zhou Shuang‐Xi , Ding Yang
Published: April 2024

In order to reduce the manual workload and reduce the maintenance cost, it is particularly important to realize automatic detection of cracks. Aiming at the problems of poor real‐time performance and low precision of traditional pavement crack detection, a crack detection method based on improved YOLOv5 one‐step target detection algorithm of convolutional neural network is proposed by using the advantages of depth learning network in target detection. The images were manually marked with LabelImg annotation software, and then the network model parameters were obtained through improving the YOLOv5 network training. Finally, the cracks are verified and detected by the established model. In addition, the precision and speed of crack detection using YOLOv3, YOLOv5s, and YOLOv5s‐attention models are compared by using Precision, Recall, and F1. After comparison, it is found that the detection precision of YOLOv5s‐attention is improved by 1.0%, F1 by 0.9%, and mAP@.5 by 1.8%.
A Chronic Aquatic Hazard Assessment for the Perfume Raw Material Octahydro-tetramethyl-naphthalenyl-ethanone
Authors: Lapczynski Aurelia , Belanger Scott E. , Connors Kristin , Bozich Jared
Published: April 2024

Octahydro-tetramethyl-naphthalenyl-ethanone (OTNE) is a high–production volume fragrance material used in various down-the-drain consumer products. To assess aquatic risk, the Research Institute for Fragrance Materials (RIFM) uses a tiered data-driven framework to determine a risk characterization ratio, where the ratio of the predicted-environmental concentration to the predicted-no-effect concentration (PNEC) of <1 indicates an acceptable level of risk. Owing to its high production volume and the conservative nature of the RIFM framework, RIFM identified the need to utilize a species sensitivity distribution (SSD) approach to reduce the PNEC uncertainty for OTNE. Adding to the existing Daphnia magna, Danio rerio, and Desmodesmus subspicatus chronic studies, eight new chronic toxicity studies were conducted on the following species: Navicula pelliculosa, Chironomus riparius, Lemna gibba, Ceriodaphnia dubia, Hyalella azteca, Pimephales promelas, Anabaena flos-aquae, and Daphnia pulex. All toxicity data were summarized as chronic 10% effect concentration estimates using the most sensitive biological response. Daphnia magna was the most sensitive (0.032 mg/L), and D. subspicatus was the least sensitive (>2.6 mg/L, the OTNE solubility limit). The 5th percentile hazardous concentration (HC5) derived from the cumulative probability distribution of the chronic toxicity values for the 11 species was determined to be 0.0498 mg/L (95% confidence interval 0.0097–0.1159 mg/L). A series of “leave-one-out” and “add-one-in” simulations indicated the SSD was stable and robust. Add-one-in simulations determined that the probability of finding a species sensitive enough to lower the HC5 two- or threefold was 1/504 and 1/15,300, respectively. Given the high statistical confidence in this robust SSD, an additional application factor protection is likely not necessary. Nevertheless, to further ensure the protection of the environment, an application factor of 2 to the HC5, resulting in a PNEC of 0.0249 mg/L, is recommended. When combined with environmental exposure information, the overall hazard assessment is suitable for a probabilistic environmental risk assessment. Environ Toxicol Chem 2024;43:1378–1389. © 2024 The Author(s). Environmental Toxicology and Chemistry published by Wiley Periodicals LLC on behalf of SETAC.
Metabolomic-Based Comparison of Daphnia magna and Japanese Medaka Responses After Exposure to Acetaminophen, Diclofenac, and Ibuprofen
Authors: Oliveira Pereira Erico A. , Warriner Theresa R. , Simmons Denina B. D. , Jobst Karl J. , Simpson André J. , Simpson Myrna J.
Published: April 2024

Pharmaceuticals are found in aquatic environments due to their widespread use and environmental persistence. To date, a range of impairments to aquatic organisms has been reported with exposure to pharmaceuticals; however, further comparisons of their impacts across different species on the molecular level are needed. In the present study, the crustacean Daphnia magna and the freshwater fish Japanese medaka, common model organisms in aquatic toxicity, were exposed for 48 h to the common analgesics acetaminophen (ACT), diclofenac (DCF), and ibuprofen (IBU) at sublethal concentrations. A targeted metabolomic-based approach, using liquid chromatography–tandem mass spectrometry to quantify polar metabolites from individual daphnids and fish was used. Multivariate analyses and metabolite changes identified differences in the metabolite profile for D. magna and medaka, with more metabolic perturbations for D. magna. Pathway analyses uncovered disruptions to pathways associated with protein synthesis and amino acid metabolism with D. magna exposure to all three analgesics. In contrast, medaka exposure resulted in disrupted pathways with DCF only and not ACT and IBU. Overall, the observed perturbations in the biochemistry of both organisms were different and consistent with assessments using other endpoints reporting that D. magna is more sensitive to pollutants than medaka in short-term studies. Our findings demonstrate that molecular-level responses to analgesic exposure can reflect observations of other endpoints, such as immobilization and mortality. Thus, environmental metabolomics can be a valuable tool for selecting sentinel species for the biomonitoring of freshwater ecosystems while also uncovering mechanistic information. Environ Toxicol Chem 2024;43:1339–1351. © 2024 The Authors. Environmental Toxicology and Chemistry published by Wiley Periodicals LLC on behalf of SETAC.
Plastic Litter Emits the Foraging Infochemical Dimethyl Sulfide after Submersion in Freshwater Rivers
Authors: Valentine Katey , Hughes Claire , Boxall Alistair
Published: April 2024

Plastic pollution is widespread throughout aquatic environments globally, with many organisms known to interact with and ingest plastic. In marine environments, microbial biofilms that form on plastic surfaces can produce the odorous compound dimethyl sulfide (DMS), which is a known foraging cue. This has been shown to increase the ingestion of plastic by some invertebrates and therefore act as a biological factor which influences the risks of plastic to marine ecosystems. In freshwater however, the production of DMS has been largely overlooked, despite the known sensitivity of some freshwater species to this compound. To address this gap, the present study analyzed the production of DMS by biofilms which formed on low-density polyethylene and polylactic acid films after 3 and 6 weeks of submersion in either a rural or an urban United Kingdom river. Using gas chromatography–mass spectrometry, the production of DMS by these biofilms was consistently identified. The amount of DMS produced varied significantly across river locations and materials, with surfaces in the urban river generally producing a stronger signal and plastics producing up to seven times more DMS than glass control surfaces. Analysis of biofilm weight and photosynthetic pigment content indicated differences in biofilm composition across conditions and suggested that DMS production was largely driven by nonphotosynthetic taxa. For the first time this work has documented the production of DMS by plastic litter after submersion in freshwater rivers. Further work is now needed to determine if, as seen in marine systems, this production of DMS can encourage the interaction of freshwater organisms with plastic litter and therefore operate as a biological risk factor in the impacts of plastic on freshwater environments. Environ Toxicol Chem 2024;43:1485–1496. © 2024 The Authors. Environmental Toxicology and Chemistry published by Wiley Periodicals LLC on behalf of SETAC.
Do creditors care about greening in corporations? Do contingencies matter?
Authors: Karaman Abdullah S. , Gerged Ali Meftah , Uyar Ali
Published: April 2024

This study assesses whether creditors consider ecological practices (i.e., resource usage, emissions, and eco‐innovation) when setting interest rates during loan decisions and whether firm‐level contingencies play a role in this relationship. Based on a sample of 38,127 firm‐year observations of non‐financial firms operating worldwide between 2004 and 2019, our evidence indicates that eco‐friendly practices have no significant direct effect on the cost of debt. Thus, we consider other theoretically expected channels that moderate this link. Notably, profitability and board gender diversity significantly moderate the relationship between eco‐friendly practices and the cost of debt. Further investigation reveals interesting associations between low and high governance systems, low and high financial development environments, code law versus common law systems, and polluting versus non‐polluting sectors. We suggest theoretical and practical implications by which firms can reap greater benefits from environmental engagement.
The effect of different liquids on the surface roughness and color stability of single shade and nanohybrid resin composites: An AFM and SEM analysis
Authors: Ipek İrem , Bilge Kübra
Published: April 2024

The aim of this study is to evaluate the surface roughness (SR) and color changes of single‐shade and nanohybrid resin‐based restorative materials (RBC) after immersion in liquids at different pH values. For RBCs, a total of 120 specimens, 30 for each material, were prepared using 10 mm diameter and 2 mm thick molds. For flowable bulk fill RBC, a total of 40 specimens, 10 for each material, were prepared using 10 mm diameter and 4 mm thick molds (n = 10). After initial color and SR measurements, samples were stored in the liquids for 14 days and all of the measurements were repeated on 14th days. Scanning electron microscopy and atomic force microscopy analyzes were performed in all groups. When SR results are examined; among all liquids, the highest SR value was observed in the Carisma Diamond One (CDO) group, while the lowest SR value was observed in the Omnichroma Flow Bulk (OMF) group (p < .05). When the color changes (ΔE) results are examined; it was observed that CDO group had highest color change and OMF group had the lowest values. It has been observed that among the liquids, the liquids that affect the ΔE values of the materials the most are coffee and cola. When the ΔE values of the subgroups of the materials were examined, there was a statistically significant difference in all subgroups of RBCs (p < .05). While acidic liquids increased the SR of RBCs, coffee more affected the color change of RBCs.

Research Highlights

Clinicians should keep in mind that the RBCs tested may change their surface properties and colors when exposed to various liquids. People who have RBCs should pay attention to the consumption of acidic and highly pigmented liquids.
Strict association between development of psychological conditions and hypertension incidence: A cross‐sectional study
Authors: Namdar Hossein , Jamshidi Fatemeh , Rezabakhsh Aysa , Ezzati Davoud , Zakeri Raana , Sadat‐Ebrahimi Seyyed‐Reza
Published: April 2024

Background/Aims

Previous studies indicated a significant association between mental disorders and cardiovascular diseases, including heart failure (HF) and coronary artery disease (CAD) with comorbidity hypertension (HTN), and vice versa, leading to a challenge in the final decision. To resolve this issue, we aimed to exclude comorbidities and further assessed to better find any association between mental disorders and cardiovascular diseases (CVD).

Methods

The cross‐sectional study involved 300 participants: 100 with HTN (without HF or CAD), 100 with HF (without HTN or CAD), 100 with CAD (without HTN or HF), and 100 healthy individuals as a control group. To evaluate depression, anxiety, and stress levels, the Depression, Anxiety, and Stress Scale – 21 (DASS‐21) was applied. For further analysis, the SPSS ver.20 was used.

Results

The analysis showed that the score of depression, anxiety, and stress was higher in the HTN patients compared to the control (p < 0.001), CAD (p < 0.001), and HF (p < 0.001) groups, respectively. However, no significant differences were observed between the other study groups. Notably, patients with HF and CAD without concurrent HTN had similar psychological distress levels to healthy participants.

Conclusion

The present study emphasized the higher prevalence of psychological distress in HTN patients and suggests a requirement for further research regarding the etiology involved in this association.
Another proof of Seymour's 6‐flow theorem
Authors: DeVos Matt , McDonald Jessica , Nurse Kathryn
Published: April 2024

In 1981 Seymour proved his famous 6‐flow theorem asserting that every 2‐edge‐connected graph has a nowhere‐zero flow in the group (in fact, he offers two proofs of this result). In this note, we give a new short proof of a generalization of this theorem where ‐valued functions are found subject to certain boundary constraints.