bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Recognized Ionic Structures in Large Dimension of Graft‐type Polymer Electrolyte Membranes Using Pair Distribution Function Expanded for Small Angle X‐Ray Scattering
Authors: Tuan Nguyen Manh , Tue Nguyen Huynh My , Yen Vo Thi Kim , Ngan Nguyen Nhat Kim , Phuong Huynh Truc , Pham Vinh Nguyen Thanh , Luan Le Quang , Hong Pham Thi Thu , Van Man Tran , Tap Tran Duy
Published: July 2024

This study reports the pair distribution function (PDF) analysis of combined wide‐ and small‐angle X‐ray scattering (WAXS/SAXS) profiles of poly(styrene sulfonic acid) (PSSA) grafted poly(ethylene‐co‐tetrafluoroethylene) polymer electrolyte membranes (ETFE‐PEMs) within a wide grafting degree (GD) of 0%–117%. The PDF analysis of WAXS profiles (from Cu‐Kα1 radiation) provides a measure in size of the crystallite domains (5.1–8.7 nm). The extension of the PDF analysis for only SAXS profiles shows the distances of crystallite layers of 25.1–32 nm. In particular, SAXS‐PDF analysis is effective in showing the existence of newly generated graft domains with distances ≈60–64 nm, which can not be determined previously by the conventional SAXS analysis. The high similarity in local and higher‐order structures observed for polystyrene grafted ETFE films and ETFE‐PEMs suggests that the hierarchical structures including the spatial arrangement of large amorphous contents in the membranes can be determined at the graft polymerization step. Note that the presence of newly generated PSSA graft domains at large dimension can explain well the comparable or higher proton conductivity of ETFE‐PEMs as compared with commercial Nafion membrane.
Amino‐containing α‐Diimine Nickel Complexes with Adjustable Electronic Properties and their Effective Use in Forming Highly Branched Polyethylene
Authors: Zhang Qiuyue , Wang Quanchao , Wang Yizhou , Ashfaq Ali Muhammad , Ma Yanping , Liang Tongling , Sun Wen‐Hua
Published: July 2024

A family of ten amino‐containing bis(arylimino)acenaphthene‐nickel (II) bromide complexes varied in the electronic properties of para‐substituents (R = Me, iPr, tBu, OMe, Cl, F, NO2) as well as two amino‐free comparators (R = Me, Cl) are synthesized in good yield from their corresponding unsymmetrical N,N’‐ligands. All organic compounds are well characterized by different analysis techniques. On activation with Me2AlCl, all nickel complexes exhibit moderate to high activities with a maximum activity up to 14.19 × 106 g (PE) mol−1 (Ni) h−1 and deliver narrow dispersed polyethylene (PDI: 1.85–2.65) with adjustable molecular weight values (Mw: 5.27–18.49 × 105 g mol−1). The presence of remote fluoro‐ group and (4‐amino‐3,5‐dimethylphenyl)(phenyl)methyl group has their own unique influence on activity due to their different electronic and steric properties. Nevertheless, the latter with higher steric hindrance results in better thermal stability of the current catalytic system. Moreover, all polyethylene is highly branched and exhibits typical characteristics of thermoplastic elastomers, especially good mechanical properties (εb up to 1175%) and elastic recovery rate (up to 86%).
Initiator‐Free Synthesis of Semi‐Interpenetrating Polymer Networks via Bergman Cyclization
Authors: Cai Yue , Lehmann Florian , Thümmler Justus F. , Hinderberger Dariush , Binder Wolfgang H.
Published: July 2024

Semi‐interpenetrating polymer networks (semi‐IPNs), composed of two or more polymers, forming intertwined network‐architectures, represent a significant type of polymer combination in modern industry, especially in automotive and medical devices. Diverse synthesis techniques and plentiful raw materials highlight semi‐IPNs in providing facile modifications of properties to meet specific needs. An initiator‐free synthesis of semi‐interpenetrating polymer networks via Bergman cyclization (BC) is reported here, acting as a trigger to embed a second polymer via its reactive enediyne (EDY) moiety, then embedded into the first network. (Z)‐oct‐4‐ene‐2,6‐diyne‐1,8‐diol (diol‐EDY) is targeted as the precursor of the second polymer, swollen into the first polyurethane network (PU), followed by a radical polymerization induced by the radicals formed by the BC. The formation of the semi‐IPN is monitored via electron paramagnetic resonance (EPR) spectroscopy, infrared‐spectroscopy (FT‐IR), and thermal methods (DSC), proving the activation of the EDY‐moiety and its subsequent polymerization to form the second polymer. Stress−strain characterization and cyclic stress−strain investigations, together with TGA and DTG analysis, illustrate improved mechanical properties and thermal stability of the formed semi‐IPN compared to the initial PU‐network. The method presented here is a novel and broadly applicable approach to generate semi‐IPNs, triggered by the EDY‐activation via Bergman cyclization.
Sustainable Light‐Assisted 3D Printing of Bio‐Based Microwave‐Functionalized Gallic Acid
Authors: Sesia Rossella , Porcarello Matilde , Hakkarainen Minna , Ferraris Sara , Spriano Silvia , Sangermano Marco
Published: July 2024

The development of 3D printing technologies and the requirement for more sustainable 3D printing materials is constantly growing. However, ensuring both sustainability and performance of the new materials is crucial to replace current fossil‐based polymers. Here, a bio‐based UV‐curable resin is produced in high yield from gallic acid (GA), a natural polyphenolic compound, by means of rapid and efficient microwave‐assisted methacrylation (5 min heating time and 10 min at 130 °C). The successful microwave‐assisted methacrylation with a high degree of substitution is confirmed by Fourier transform infrared (FTIR) spectroscopy and proton nuclear magnetic resonance spectroscopy. The radical UV‐photopolymerization of the methacrylated gallic acid (MGA) is further investigated by real‐time FTIR and differential scanning photo calorimetry (photo‐DSC) analyses, clearly demonstrating the high photo‐reactivity of MGA. Moreover, the %gel assessment demonstrates the formation of highly insoluble fractions after the UV‐curing, with 98% gel content. The photo‐rheology and rheology support the suitability of MGA for light‐assisted 3D printing. Indeed, a honeycomb and a hollow cube are 3D printed by means of the digital light processing 3D printing technique with high accuracy in a small scale. Finally, the cured‐MGA illustrates high Tg and thermal stability.
Filter‐Menger set of reals in Cohen extensions
Authors: Zhang Hang , Zhang Shuguo
Published: July 2024

We prove that for every ultrafilter on there exists a filter on which is ‐Menger and . We show that in the Cohen model there exists such which are tall by using a construction of Nyikos's [10]. These answer a question of Das [2, Problem 7]. We prove that there is a Menger filter of character that is not Hurewicz in the ‐Cohen model where is uncountable regular. This shows that the positive answer to a question of Hernández‐Gutiérrez and Szeptycki [3, Question 2.8] is consistent with . We also study the filter generated by the set of mutually Cohen reals in the ‐Cohen model. We prove that and and every ‐dominating family in the ground model is ‐unbounded in extension. Two questions are posed.
On Levi‐flat hypersurfaces with singularities on a manifold boundary
Authors: Fernández‐Pérez Arturo , Marra Gustavo
Published: July 2024

We study germs of real‐analytic Levi‐flat hypersurfaces with singularities on a boundary manifold. We prove the existence of a normal form for a real‐analytic Levi‐flat hypersurface which is defined by the vanishing of the real part of , , and singularities. Finally, we prove a version of Morse–Vey's lemma for a real‐analytic Levi‐flat hypersurface with singularities on the boundary.
L2$L^{2}$‐growth property for the wave equation with a higher derivative term
Authors: Li Xiaoyan , Ikehata Ryo
Published: July 2024

We consider the Cauchy problem in for the wave equation with a higher derivative term. We derive sharp growth estimates of the ‐norm of the solution itself for the case of and . By imposing the weighted ‐initial velocity, we can get the lower and upper bound estimates of the solution itself. For the case of , we observe that the ‐growth behavior of the solution never occurs in the ‐framework of the initial data.
Mass spectrometry‐based metabolomics for the investigation of antibiotic–bacterial interactions
Authors: Lv Xiaoyuan , Gao Zhenye , Li Bingjie , Zhou Wenxiu , Zhang Shengman , Wang Xin
Published: July 2024

With the development of analytical technologies especially mass spectrometry, metabolomics is becoming increasingly hot in the field of studying antibiotic‐bacterial interactions. On the one hand, metabolomics can reveal metabolic perturbations in bacteria in the presence of antibiotics and expose metabolic mechanisms. On the other hand, through in‐depth analysis of bacterial metabolic profiles, biomarkers and bioactive secondary metabolites with great potential as drug precursors can be discovered. This review focuses on the experimental workflow of bacterial metabolomics and its application to study the interaction between bacteria and antibiotics. Metabolomics improves the understanding of antibiotic lethality, reveals metabolic perturbations in antibiotic‐resistant bacteria, guides the diagnosis and antibiotic treatment of infectious diseases, and aids in the exploration of antibacterial metabolites in nature. Furthermore, current limitations and directions for future developments in this area are discussed.
Neutrophil extracellular traps in cancer
Authors: Ma Yuxi , Wei Jielin , He Wenshan , Ren Jinghua
Published: July 2024

Neutrophil extracellular traps (NETs), which consist of chromatin DNA studded with granule proteins, are released by neutrophils in response to both infectious and sterile inflammation. Beyond the canonical role in defense against pathogens, the extrusion of NETs also contributes to the initiation, metastasis, and therapeutic response of malignant diseases. Recently, NETs have been implicated in the development and therapeutic responses of various types of tumors. Although extensive work regarding inflammation in tumors has been reported, a comprehensive summary of how these web‐like extracellular structures initiate and propagate tumor progression under the specific microenvironment is lacking. In this review, we demonstrate the initiators and related signaling pathways that trigger NETs formation in cancers. Additionally, this review will outline the current molecular mechanisms and regulatory networks of NETs during dormant cancer cells awakening, circulating tumor cells (CTCs) extravasation, and metastatic recurrence of cancer. This is followed by a perspective on the current and potential clinical potential of NETs as therapeutic targets in the treatment of both local and metastatic disease, including the improvement of the efficacy of existing therapies.
Convergence analysis of iteratively reweighted ℓ1algorithms for computing the proximal operator of ℓp‐norm
Authors: Lin Rongrong , Li Shimin , Li Zijia , Liu Yulan
Published: July 2024

The
‐norm with
is a widely used nonconvex penalty in compressed sensing, matrix completion, image processing, and among others. Explicit expressions for the proximal operator of
‐norm are only available when
and
. To handle this, its proximal operator with an arbitrary
is frequently evaluated via an iteratively reweighted
algorithm (IRL1), which iteratively substitutes
‐norm with its first‐order approximation. In this study, we fully characterize that the IRL1 solution disagrees with the true proximal operator of the
‐norm in certain regions in terms of
, an initial value, and the regularization parameter of the proximal operator. Furthermore, an adaptive initial value can be set to ensure that the IRL1 solution always belongs to the proximal operator.
Compact IPD bandpass filter with wide upper stopband based on modified topology for 5G applications
Authors: Zhang Qi , Cao Yazi , Wang Gaofeng
Published: July 2024

A compact bandpass filter (BPF) with wide stopband performance is proposed and implemented on Si‐based integrated passive device (IPD) technology. A modified topology consisting of a novel Pi‐section and two capacitors are introduced in this BPF. The Pi‐section topology can achieve a band‐pass performance and generate four transmission zeros out‐of‐band. These two capacitors can improve the in‐band matching and also widen the stopband. The proposed BPF with a compact size of 1.0 mm × 0.5 mm × 0.3 mm is fabricated using Si IPD technology and measured by on‐wafer probing. It shows that the insertion loss is less than 1.75 dB, the return loss is better than 18 dB in the 5G band, and the upper stopband suppression level is better than 17.5 dB up to 18 GHz. The simulated and measured results of the proposed BPF are in reasonably good agreement.
Effects of exercise dosage on the treatment of fibromyalgia: A meta‐analysis of randomised controlled trials
Authors: Niu Guoweng , Zheng Xiaozhu , Deng Bigao , Yang Qianhong , Du YongSheng
Published: July 2024

Background

Exercise intensity is a key component of an exercise prescription. This meta‐analysis aimed to investigate the treatment effect of different exercise doses on fibromyalgia syndrome.

Methods

PubMed, Embase, Web of Science, and the Cochrane Library were searched from their inception until 29 December 2023. The studies were subjected to screening using a 2‐phase approach by 2 independent reviewers. Reference lists of the included studies were manually searched. Two independent reviewers extracted information regarding the origin, characteristics of study participants, eligibility criteria, characteristics of interventions, outcome measures, and main results using a pre‐defined template.

Results

This meta‐analysis encompassed a total of 19 randomized controlled trials comprising 857 patients. Compared with the low compliance/uncertain group according to ACSM, the high compliance group showed better effectiveness in general condition improvement (SMD: −1.15 > −0.71), pain relief (SMD: −1.29 > −1.04), sleep quality enhancement (SMD: −1.66 > −1.08), and fatigue relief (SMD: −1.72 > −1.32). However, there was no difference in the improvement of mental health between the two groups (SMD: −0.93 > −0.92).

Conclusion

Compared to the ACSM group with compliance uncertainty (<70%), the high compliance group showed improvement in general conditions, pain, sleep quality, and fatigue. However, there was no difference in terms of mental health.
Probing diffusion of water and metabolites to assess white matter microstructure in Duchenne muscular dystrophy
Authors: Govaarts Rosanne , Doorenweerd Nathalie , Najac Chloé F. , Broek Emma M. , Tamsma Maud E. , Hollingsworth Kieren G. , Niks Erik H. , Ronen Itamar , Straub Volker , Kan Hermien E.
Published: July 2024

Duchenne muscular dystrophy (DMD) is a progressive X‐linked neuromuscular disorder caused by the absence of functional dystrophin protein. In addition to muscle, dystrophin is expressed in the brain in both neurons and glial cells. Previous studies have shown altered white matter microstructure in patients with DMD using diffusion tensor imaging (DTI). However, DTI measures the diffusion properties of water, a ubiquitous molecule, making it difficult to unravel the underlying pathology. Diffusion‐weighted spectroscopy (DWS) is a complementary technique which measures diffusion properties of cell‐specific intracellular metabolites. Here we performed both DWS and DTI measurements to disentangle intra‐ and extracellular contributions to white matter changes in patients with DMD. Scans were conducted in patients with DMD (15.5 ± 4.6 y/o) and age‐ and sex‐matched healthy controls (16.3 ± 3.3 y/o). DWS measurements were obtained in a volume of interest (VOI) positioned in the left parietal white matter. Apparent diffusion coefficients (ADCs) were calculated for total N‐acetylaspartate (tNAA), choline compounds (tCho), and total creatine (tCr). The tNAA/tCr and tCho/tCr ratios were calculated from the non‐diffusion‐weighted spectrum. Mean diffusivity (MD), radial diffusivity (RD), axial diffusivity (AD), and fractional anisotropy of water within the VOI were extracted from DTI measurements. DWS and DTI data from patients with DMD (respectively n = 20 and n = 18) and n = 10 healthy controls were included. No differences in metabolite ADC or in concentration ratios were found between patients with DMD and controls. In contrast, water diffusion (MD, t = −2.727, p = 0.011; RD, t = −2.720, p = 0.011; AD, t = −2.715, p = 0.012) within the VOI was significantly higher in patients compared with healthy controls. Taken together, our study illustrates the potential of combining DTI and DWS to gain a better understanding of microstructural changes and their association with disease mechanisms in a clinical setting.
From Colonial Order to Decolonial Future: Colonial Mimesis and Identity among the Papua Besena Movement
Authors: Wu Ming‐Jen
Published: July 2024

During the 1970s and 1980s, a nationalist movement called Papua Besena emerged in Papua New Guinea. On the one hand, the group believed that the Papuan people were neglected by Australian colonisation and campaigned for Papuan sovereignty, either by creating an independent state or joining Australia as a state. On the other hand, as some scholars and politicians have pointed out, Papua Besena's rhetoric of colonial neglect failed to appreciate that Papuan people received more investment in colonial economic development, training, and infrastructure than most Papua New Guineans due to their proximity to the colonial centre. The Australian colonisation of the territories also changed due to pressure from the United Nations visiting mission. Yet despite the Papuan people's access to development, they still felt neglected and humiliated being so close to the colonial centre. To answer this paradox, the concept of mimesis, particularly the idea of colonial mimicry and mimesis as a source of identity, might shed new light on the political history and consciousness of Papuans. This paper suggests that Papuans' access to space, training, and positions was restricted in and around Port Moresby. Many Papuans took up the colonial moral order and mimicked the colonial perspective visible in the capital, projecting it into their decolonial future and their relationships with New Guineans and Australia. In other words, the Papuans' proximity to the colonial space and process contributed to their experiences of neglect and their identity simultaneously.
Concomitant sickle cell disease and systemic lupus erythematosus: A single‐center case series
Authors: Lapite Ajibike , Sánchez Luisana M. , Altaffer Ana Luiza , Rae Meredith , Ramirez Andrea Ann , Muscal Eyal , Yildirim‐Toruner Cagri , Tubman Venée N.
Published: July 2024

Sickle cell disease (SCD) and systemic lupus erythematosus (SLE) are two uncommon disorders each characterized by multisystemic manifestations. Individuals with SCD exhibit abnormalities in the complement pathway, which may predispose patients to develop autoimmune disorders such as SLE. As many manifestations of SLE mimic those of SCD, diagnosis and therapeutic management of SLE in a patient with known SCD may be delayed. In this study, we describe our institutional experience of diagnosing and managing concomitant SCD and SLE. We offer insights into the complex interplay between these conditions to enhance early recognition and effective management of concurrent SCD and SLE.
Amino‐functionalized nano‐hydroxyapatite boosts the grafting efficiency of poly (l‐lactic acid) to enhance interfacial bonding in composite bone scaffold
Authors: Yang Feng , Fan Linfeng , Qiu Xiang , Shi Kaiwen , Pan Hao , Shuai Cijun , Feng Pei
Published: July 2024

Nano‐hydroxyapatite (nano‐HAP)/poly (l‐lactic acid) (PLLA) bone scaffold is expected to overcome the deficiencies and achieve the complementary advantages of individual constituents, but the weak interfacial bonding due to their thermodynamic incompatibility is detrimental to the mechanical properties. Herein, the PLLA chains were grafted onto nano‐HAP with 3‐aminopropyltriethoxysilane (KH550) as a coupling reagent to enhance the interfacial bonding with PLLA. Specifically, the silicon hydroxyl group produced by KH550 hydrolysis could form covalent bonding with the hydroxyl group of nano‐HAP, and the amino group of KH550 initiated the ring‐opening polymerization of l‐lactide monomers to graft PLLA chains onto nano‐HAP more effectively, leading to a higher grafting ratio of 16.7% compared with 7.2% in direct grafting without KH550 modification. Consequently, the tensile and compressive strength of the modified nano‐HAP/PLLA scaffold were improved by 40.8% and 59.5% enhancement due to the enhanced interfacial bonding in the composite scaffold, respectively, compared to the original nano‐HAP/PLLA scaffold. Additionally, the bone scaffold was conducive to cell adhesion and proliferation, making it an ideal candidate for bone defect repair.

Highlights

Amino‐functionalized nano‐HAP boosted the grafting efficiency of PLLA chains.

Interfacial bonding between nano‐HAP and matrix was enhanced.

Bone scaffold showed better mechanical properties and benign cytocompatibility.
Inorganic–organic polymer networks derived from a cyclic siloxane tetrafunctional glycidyl ether resin
Authors: Gan Houlei , Seraji Seyed Mohsen , Zhang Juan , Swan Samuel R , Senanayake Rusheni Bhagya , Varley Russell J
Published: July 2024

A tetrafunctional glycidyl ether cyclic siloxane epoxy resin (TGTS) has been synthesized, characterized and cured with four aromatic amine hardeners: 1,3‐phenylenediamine (PDA), diethyltoluenediamine (DETDA), 4,4‐diaminodiphenylmethane (DDM) and 1,3‐bis(4‐aminophenoxy)benzene (APB). Each of the cured networks produces transparent and homogeneous networks, although when TGTS is cured with DETDA, reduced compatibility led to lower epoxide consumption, a more heterogenous microstructure and deleterious effects upon properties. Reduced miscibility of DETDA significantly impacts the chemical structure and microstructure of the network, resulting in significant reductions in thermal and mechanical properties but higher UV‐A transmission. The PDA‐, APB‐ and DDM‐cured networks conversely were more miscible and display properties typical of organic–inorganic hybrid networks, such as good mechanical properties at ambient and sub‐ambient temperatures, comparatively high glass transition temperatures, improved resistance to oxidation and lower UV‐A transmission. © 2024 The Author(s). Polymer International published by John Wiley & Sons Ltd on behalf of Society of Chemical Industry.
Exploring Fusarium head blight resistance in a winter triticale germplasm collection
Authors: Wallace Sydney , Chhabra Bhavit , Dong Yanhong , Ma Xuefeng , Coleman Gary , Tiwari Vijay , Rawat Nidhi
Published: July 2024

Fusarium head blight (FHB; caused by Fusarium graminearum) is a destructive disease of wheat (Triticum spp.), barley (Hordeum vulgare), rye (Secale cereale L.), and triticale (×Triticosecale Wittmack) not only reducing their yield but also contaminating the grain with mycotoxins such as deoxynivalenol (DON). Developing varieties with genetic resistance is integral to successfully manage FHB. Triticale acreage worldwide is steadily increasing. However, the genetic diversity of triticale for FHB resistance is not well characterized. In the present study, a sequential screening of a set of winter triticale accessions from a global collection was done for their type‐2 FHB resistance and DON accumulation. In the first‐year screening, 298 triticale accessions were tested for FHB in an artificially inoculated, misted‐field nursery with high inoculum density. Most of the triticale accessions were susceptible to FHB, and only 8% of the accessions showed resistance in the field nursery screening. Next, the 24 resistant accessions identified in the nursery screening were tested for 2 years in greenhouse and 17 accessions showed significantly lower FHB severity in Year 2 and/or Year 3. These 17 resistant accessions were further tested for their FHB severity and DON accumulation in Year 4 in greenhouse and for DON accumulation in Year 5 in the field FHB nursery. Eight accessions showed significantly lower FHB severity and nine accessions showed DON accumulation of less than 1 mg/kg in Year 4 greenhouse testing. Eleven accessions had significantly lower DON concentration than the susceptible check in the Year 5 field screening. The resistant accessions common across all years identified in the study can be used for enhancing FHB resistance and reducing DON accumulation in triticale breeding programs.
Design and characterization of a nano‐pulsed atmospheric pressure plasma jet for biomedical applications
Authors: Shen Saikang , Tampieri Francesco , Garcia Maria C. , Canal Cristina
Published: July 2024

Plasma jets, crucial atmospheric pressure sources in biomedical applications, generate reactive species in liquids, with electrical fields playing a significant role, as variations in pulse rise times and durations in dielectric barrier discharges yield diverse effects. This study presents a novel nanosecond pulse plasma jet. Here, investigations with phosphate‐buffered saline and Ringer's saline elucidate critical parameters influencing species generation, such as treatment time and gas flow rate. Results showed increasing concentrations of H2O2 and NO2− over time, with NO2− degrading faster in Ringer's saline due to acidification. The nanosecond pulse jet exhibits superior energy efficiency than conventional jets, laying the groundwork for optimizing species generation and studying electrical field effects in future biological works.
Solvent Vapor Annealing and Plasma Treatment Stabilize Silver Nanowire Layers
Authors: Grammes Thilo , Maurer Johannes , González‐García Lola , Kraus Tobias
Published: July 2024

Silver nanowires (AgNW) find use in transparent conductive electrodes with applications in solar cells, touch screens, and wearables. Unprotected AgNW are prone to atmospheric corrosion and lose conductivity over time. Known passivation techniques either require submersion of pre‐deposited AgNW in liquid compounds or the modification of AgNW inks prior to deposition, which alters viscosity and complicates deposition. Here, new possibilities for stabilization of pre‐deposited AgNW networks without need for submersion are explored. It is demonstrated that AgNW networks can be stabilized either by argon or hydrogen plasma treatment or by solvent vapor annealing with ethanol, methanol, or ethyl acetate. These treatments yielded stable electrical resistance over at least nine weeks, whereas untreated or thermally annealed AgNW layers quickly lost conductivity. The potential of solvent vapor annealing is further explored by demonstrating a new processing technique for stable polymer matrix composites containing AgNW. Co‐deposited layers of AgNW with polystyrene microbeads are annealed in ethyl acetate vapor to stabilize the AgNW while at the same time merging polymer beads into a closed film around the AgNW. The resulting composites maintained stable resistance and transmittance for at least seven weeks.
Optimizing UAV spray parameters to improve precise control of tobacco pests at different growth stages
Authors: Shi Xin , Du Yahui , Liu Xiaohui , Liu Chunming , Hou Qiuqiang , Chen Lihua , Yong Rongjing , Ma Jiangming , Yang Daibin , Yuan Huizhu , Guo Jian , Liu Pengfei , Yan Xiaojing
Published: July 2024

BACKGROUND

Unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs) for pesticide application show promising potential in tobacco pest management. However, the impact of flight parameters on spray efficacy requires further investigation. Three field experiments were conducted from the rosette to the maturation stage of tobacco to systematically assess spray efficacy under varying flight heights, speeds, and application volumes. Using a multi‐index weight analysis method, optimal operational parameter combinations for different tobacco growth stages were evaluated and compared with backpack electric sprayers.

RESULTS

For the rosette stage, the recommended parameter is a flight speed of 5 m s−1, a flight height of 2 m, and a liquid application volume of 30 L hm−2; during the vigorous growth stage, the suggested parameter includes a flight speed of 3 m s−1, a flight height of 2 m, and a liquid application volume of 22.5 L hm−2. In the maturing stage, optimal parameter consists of a flight speed of 3 m s−1, a flight height of 3.5 m, and a liquid application volume of 30 L hm−2. Furthermore, UAV spraying achieves higher droplet deposition on both sides of tobacco leaves compared to traditional electric backpack sprayers.

CONCLUSIONS

Adjusting UAV spraying parameters for different tobacco growth stages is crucial. These results can provide the methods for the precise control technology of tobacco pests at different growth stages. © 2024 Society of Chemical Industry.
Sugar‐Sweetened Beverages Taxation Plan in Indonesia: Call for Political Commitment
Authors: Siregar Risyad Abiyyu , Qorina Fona , Kalaij Ayers Gilberth Ivano , Afidjati Hera , Latifani Dhani , Utomo Muhammad Faisal Putro , Sophia Louisa Patricia , Mahmud Azizah Salsabila
Published: July 2024

Indonesia is grappling with a rise in obesity and diabetes, partially driven by a high consumption of sugar‐sweetened beverages. The prevalence of obesity among adults more than doubled from 2007 to 2018, and diabetes rates have also increased. In response, the Indonesian government has proposed an excise tax on sugar‐sweetened beverages to reduce consumption. However, the implementation of this policy has repeatedly been delayed, with the latest postponement to 2024. Sugar‐sweetened beverages contribute significantly to chronic diseases, increasing the healthcare burden and reducing economic productivity. Taxation, a widely used public health strategy in the form of fiscal measures, can decrease consumption by raising prices, raising public awareness, encouraging product reformulation, and generating revenue. Despite its potential benefits, the proposed tax in Indonesia faces substantial political and commercial challenges. The president‐elect Prabowo Subanto has not explicitly supported the tax in his political manifesto, raising concerns about further delays due to industry lobbying. Successful implementation of the tax requires robust political will, public and civil society pressure, and effective cross‐sector cooperation. The government must ensure clear policy goals, equal application to domestic and foreign products, and supportive measures such as providing free drinking water alternatives. Transparent stakeholder consultations can build broad‐based support, whereas effective monitoring and evaluation frameworks are essential for compliance. To gain public support, allocating tax revenues to public health and social programs is crucial. Although initial resistance is expected, strong enforcement mechanisms can ensure adherence. With determined political commitment and public advocacy, the sugar‐sweetened beverage tax can significantly reduce obesity and diabetes rates, improving public health outcomes and economic productivity in Indonesia. This commentary provides an overview of the proposed tax, explores its challenges, and offers recommendations for successful implementation.
Influence of mono‐ and bi‐vacancy doped alkaline‐earth metals on the optoelectronic properties of monolayer defective state MoTe2: A first‐principles study
Authors: Dai Ying , Liu Guili , He Jianlin , Yang Zhonghua , Zhang Guoying
Published: July 2024

The effects of single‐vacancy and double‐vacancy doping with alkaline‐earth metals on the stability, electronic structure, charge transfer, and optical properties of molybdenum ditelluride in the monolayer defective state (MoTe2) have been investigated using first‐principles methods. It is found that the structure of the molybdenum ditelluride system is more stable after double Te vacancies, with direct band‐gap to indirect band‐gap transitions occurring in single Te vacancies and Mo vacancies, and semiconductor to quasi‐metal transitions occurring in double Mo vacancies. The binding energy in the defect state system of molybdenum ditelluride after vacancy defects is always negative, and the structure remains stable. In this paper, the most stable double Te vacancy state was selected for substitutional doping with alkaline‐earth metals, and the Be atoms were doped with the largest amount of morphology, and Ca atoms were doped with the most pronounced decrease in band gap value. The direct band‐gap semiconductor is maintained after doping with Be atoms. Doping with Mg, Sr and Ba changes the band‐gap from direct to indirect. The double Te defect state MoTe2 doped with Ca atoms has a tendency to transition to a quasi‐metal. Regarding photoelectric properties, the system is blue‐shifted on both the absorption and reflection peaks.
Quantum‐Noise‐Driven Generative Diffusion Models
Authors: Parigi Marco , Martina Stefano , Caruso Filippo
Published: July 2024

Generative models realized with Machine Learning (ML) techniques are powerful tools to infer complex and unknown data distributions from a finite number of training samples in order to produce new synthetic data. Diffusion Models (DMs) are an emerging framework that have recently overcome Generative Adversarial Networks (GANs) in creating high‐quality images. Here, is proposed and discussed the quantum generalization of DMs, i.e., three Quantum‐Noise‐Driven Generative Diffusion Models (QNDGDMs) that could be experimentally tested on real quantum systems. The idea is to harness unique quantum features, in particular the non‐trivial interplay among coherence, entanglement, and noise that the currently available noisy quantum processors do unavoidably suffer from, in order to overcome the main computational burdens of classical diffusion models during inference. Hence, the suggestion is to exploit quantum noise not as an issue to be detected and solved but instead as a beneficial key ingredient to generate complex probability distributions from which a quantum processor might sample more efficiently than a classical one. Three examples of the numerical simulations are also included for the proposed approaches. The results are expected to pave the way for new quantum‐inspired or quantum‐based generative diffusion algorithms addressing tasks as data generation with widespread real‐world applications.
Data‐based nonlinear learning control for aircraft trajectory tracking via Gaussian process regression
Authors: Wei Chuyu , Meng Deyuan , Zhang Jingyao , Cai Kaiquan
Published: July 2024

In this article, a new data‐based iterative learning control (ILC) algorithm is proposed via Gaussian process regression (GPR) to accomplish the trajectory tracking objective of aircraft subject to completely unknown dynamics and strong nonlinearities. The nonlinear system input–output relationship of the unknown aircraft is formulated through GPR by leveraging historical data, based on which an optimal ILC framework is established. The monotonic convergence analysis of the GPR‐based ILC is explored such that high‐precision tracking tasks can be accomplished without prior model knowledge. Simulation tests are further conducted on a commercial aircraft performing a continuous climb operation to illustrate the effectiveness of the GPR‐based ILC approach.
A CIELAB fusion‐based generative adversarial network for reliable sand–dust removal in open‐pit mines
Authors: Li Xudong , Liu Chong , Sun Yangyang , Li Wujie , Li Jingmin
Published: July 2024

Intelligent electric shovels are being developed for intelligent mining in open‐pit mines. Complex environment detection and target recognition based on image recognition technology are prerequisites for achieving intelligent electric shovel operation. However, there is a large amount of sand–dust in open‐pit mines, which can lead to low visibility and color shift in the environment during data collection, resulting in low‐quality images. The images collected for environmental perception in sand–dust environment can seriously affect the target detection and scene segmentation capabilities of intelligent electric shovels. Therefore, developing an effective image processing algorithm to solve these problems and improve the perception ability of intelligent electric shovels has become crucial. At present, methods based on deep learning have achieved good results in image dehazing, and have a certain correlation in image sand–dust removal. However, deep learning heavily relies on data sets, but existing data sets are concentrated in haze environments, with significant gaps in the data set of sand–dust images, especially in open‐pit mining scenes. Another bottleneck is the limited performance associated with traditional methods when removing sand–dust from images, such as image distortion and blurring. To address the aforementioned issues, a method for generating sand–dust image data based on atmospheric physical models and CIELAB color space features is proposed. The impact mechanism of sand–dust on images was analyzed through atmospheric physical models, and the formation of sand–dust images was divided into two parts: blurring and color deviation. We studied the blurring and color deviation effect generation theories based on atmospheric physical models and CIELAB color space, and designed a two‐stage sand–dust image generation method. We also constructed an open‐pit mine sand–dust data set in a real mining environment. Last but not least, this article takes generative adversarial network (GAN) as the research foundation and focuses on the formation mechanism of sand–dust image effects. The CIELAB color features are fused with the discriminator of GAN as basic priors and additional constraints to improve the discrimination effect. By combining the three feature components of CIELAB color space and comparing the algorithm performance, a feature fusion scheme is determined. The results show that the proposed method can generate clear and realistic images well, which helps to improve the performance of target detection and scene segmentation tasks in heavy sand–dust open‐pit mines.
Spectral sensor‐based device for real‐time detection and severity estimation of groundnut bud necrosis virus in tomato
Authors: Kumari Karishma , Parray Roaf , Basavaraj Y. B. , Godara Samarth , Mani Indra , Kumar Rajeev , Khura Tapan , Sarkar Susheel , Ranjan Rajeev , Mirzakhaninafchi Hasan
Published: July 2024

A machine learning‐based approach was utilized to develop a device for groundnut bud necrosis virus (GBNV) disease severity detection and estimation in tomato plants (Solanum lycopersicum L.). The study involved inoculating tomato plants with GBNV, monitoring changes in morphological and spectral characteristics, evaluating machine learning algorithms (decision tree [DT] classifier) for analysis and classification of disease severity, and developing and validating a device for disease detection and severity estimation. Spectral data analysis revealed distinct patterns in reflectance, with notable peaks observed in the 680 and 760 nm bands, while reflectance remained low and constant beyond 900 nm. Machine learning techniques, specifically a DT model, were employed to classify disease severity based on spectral data with high accuracy (95.01% training accuracy and 93.65% testing accuracy). The model identified the near‐infrared band as highly correlated (correlation coefficient of 0.82) with disease severity. Furthermore, a compact handheld device integrating a spectral sensor, organic light‐emitting diode display, and Raspberry Pi 3B was developed for real‐time disease severity estimation. The device demonstrated robust performance, accurately predicting disease severity at different growth stages, even in the absence of visible symptoms. Additionally, disease severity percentages obtained via reverse transcription polymerase chain reaction were used to validate the accuracy of the device's estimations. Its responsive nature, with estimated response times ranging from milliseconds to seconds, facilitates timely interventions in agricultural settings. Overall, this interdisciplinary approach, combining spectral analysis, machine learning, and device development, presents a promising solution for efficient disease monitoring and management in agriculture, contributing to enhanced crop health and food security.
The morphological and functional traits of water bodies enhance the explanatory power of directed spatial processes in predicting the variation of macrophyte communities under the conditions of river flow regulation
Authors: Lisovets Olena , Ruchiy Volodymyr , Kunakh Olga , Zhukov Olexander
Published: July 2024

The study evaluated the influence of aquatic environmental features, morphological and functional traits of water bodies and directional spatial processes on the macrophyte community of floodplain ecosystems formed as a result of water flow regulation by the construction of dams. The fluvial processes were found to be still the main factor in the formation of geomorphological and ecological characteristics of floodplain ecosystems, and also determine the spatial patterns of variability of aquatic macrophyte communities. The influence of water properties on macrophytes is significantly spatially structured, as it is modified by the morphological and functional characteristics of the water bodies. The exchange of water in the floodplain system is influenced by the functional types of water bodies, which explains their significant correlation with spatial variables. The development of macrophyte communities on a broad scale is driven by the characteristics of the aquatic environment, the morphology of the water bodies and the functional types of the water bodies. On a fine scale, the patterns are described by a pure spatial component. The impact of fine scale patterns on the variability of macrophyte communities increases with increasing community disturbance, both natural and anthropogenic.
A Review: Surface Engineering of Lipid‐Based Drug Delivery Systems
Authors: Patel Dhaval , Solanki Jyoti , Kher Mafatlal M. , Azagury Aharon
Published: July 2024

This review explores the evolution of lipid‐based nanoparticles (LBNPs) for drug delivery (DD). Herein, LBNPs are classified into liposomes and cell membrane‐based nanoparticles (CMNPs), each with unique advantages and challenges. Conventional LBNPs possess drawbacks such as poor targeting, quick clearance, and limited biocompatibility. One of the possible alternatives to overcome these challenges is surface modification of nanoparticles (NPs) with materials such as polyethylene glycol (PEG), aptamers, antibody fragments, peptides, CD44, hyaluronic acid, folic acid, palmitic acid, and lactoferrin. Thus, the main focus of this review will be on the different surface modifications that enable LBNPs to have beneficial properties for DD, such as enhancing mass transport properties, immune evasion, improved stability, and targeting. Moreover, various CMNPs are explored used for DD derived from cells such as red blood cells (RBCs), platelets, leukocytes, cancer cells, and stem cells, highlighting their unique natural properties (e.g., biocompatibility and ability to evade the immune system). This discussion extends to the biomimicking of hybrid NPs accomplished through the surface coating of synthetic (mainly polymeric) NPs with different cell membranes. This review aims to provide a comprehensive resource for researchers on recent advances in the field of surface modification of LBNPs and CMNPs. Overall, this review provides valuable insights into the dynamic field of lipid‐based DD systems.
Delivery of mRNA Using Biomimetic Vectors: Progress and Challenges
Authors: Yin Menghao , Sun Hanruo , Li Yanan , Zhang Jingge , Wang Jinjin , Liang Yan , Zhang Kaixiang
Published: July 2024

Messenger RNA (mRNA) is an emerging class of therapeutic agents for treating a wide range of diseases. However, due to the instability and low cell transfection rate of naked mRNA, the expression of delivered mRNA in target cells or tissues in vivo requires delivery strategies. Biomimetic vectors hold advantages such as high biocompatibility, tissue specific targeting ability and efficient delivery mechanisms, potentially overcoming challenges faced by other delivery vectors. In this review, biomimetic vector‐based mRNA delivery systems are summarized and discuss the possible challenges and prospects of such delivery systems, which may contribute to the progress and application of mRNA‐based therapy in the biomedical field.
Mesoscale Acid–Base Complexes Display Size‐Associated Photophysical Property and Photochemical Activity
Authors: Wang Shuodong , Chen Yao , Liu Haohao , He Jinzhi , Bian Qilong , Guo Jing , Zhang Yang , Tu Yujie , Chen Bo , Zeng Zebing , Xie Sheng , Tang Ben Zhong
Published: July 2024

The properties of single molecules and molecular aggregates can differ dramatically, leading to a long‐standing interest in mesoscale aggregation processes. Herein, a series of acid‐base molecular complexes is developed by using a tetraphenylethylene‐backboned fluorophore, and investigated the photophysical properties and photochemical activities at different aggregation length scales. This fluorophore, with two basic diethylamine groups and two acidic tetrazole groups, exhibits sparse solubility due to multivalent interactions that cause infinite aggregation. The addition of a third acid leads to the formation of fluorophore/acid complexes with good dispersibility and colloidal stability. This assembly process can be controlled by the use of different acids and their stoichiometry, resulting in aggregates ranging in size from a few to hundreds of nanometers. A crystalline structure is obtained to illustrate the complex properties of the acid‐base network. Unlike the single molecule, these complexes show a trend of size‐related properties for photoluminescence efficiency and photochemical activity. As the amount of acid added increases, the size of the complexes decreases, the aggregation effect of the complexes on fluorescence emission increases, and the rates of the oxidative photocyclization and photodecomposition slow down. This work may help to understand size‐controlled molecular materials at the mesoscale for functional design.
Highly Conductive and Stable Composite Polymer Electrolyte with Boron Nitride Nanotubes for All‐Solid‐State Lithium Metal Batteries
Authors: He Qian , Liu Xiongxiong , Xiao Guang , He Xuhua , Gong Wenbin , Tang Lingfei , Chen Qi , Zhang Qichong , Yao Yagang
Published: July 2024

All‐solid‐state lithium metal batteries (ASSLMBs) have emerged as the most promising next‐generation energy storage devices. However, the unsatisfactory ionic conductivity of solid electrolytes at room temperature has impeded the advancement of solid‐state batteries. In this work, a multifunctional composite solid electrolyte (CSE) is developed by incorporating boron nitride nanotubes (BNNTs) into polyvinylidene fluoride‐hexafluoropropylene (PVDF‐HFP). BNNTs, with a high aspect ratio, trigger the dissociation of Li salts, thus generating a greater population of mobile Li+, and establishing long‐distance Li+ transport pathways. PVDF‐HFP/BNNT exhibits a high ionic conductivity of 8.0 × 10−4 S cm−1 at room temperature and a Li+ transference number of 0.60. Moreover, a Li//Li symmetric cell based on PVDF‐HFP/BNNT demonstrates robust cyclic performance for 3400 h at a current density of 0.2 mA cm−2. The ASSLMB formed from the assembly of PVDF‐HFP/BNNT with LiFePO4 and Li exhibits a capacity retention of 93.2% after 850 cycles at 0.5C and 25 °C. The high‐voltage all‐solid‐state LiCoO2/Li cell based on PVDF‐HFP/BNNT also exhibits excellent cyclic performance, maintaining a capacity retention of 96.4% after 400 cycles at 1C and 25 °C. Furthermore, the introduction of BNNTs is shown to enhance the thermal conductivity and flame retardancy of the CSE.