bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Self-bridging metamaterials surpassing the theoretical limit of Poisson’s ratios
Authors: Zhang Jinhao , Xiao Mi , Gao Liang , Alù Andrea , Wang Fengwen
Published: July 2023

A hallmark of mechanical metamaterials has been the realization of negative Poisson’s ratios, associated with auxeticity. However, natural and engineered Poisson’s ratios obey fundamental bounds determined by stability, linearity and thermodynamics. Overcoming these limits may substantially extend the range of Poisson’s ratios realizable in mechanical systems, of great interest for medical stents and soft robots. Here, we demonstrate freeform self-bridging metamaterials that synthesize multi-mode microscale levers, realizing Poisson’s ratios surpassing the values allowed by thermodynamics in linear materials. Bridging slits between microstructures via self-contacts yields multiple rotation behaviors of microscale levers, which break the symmetry and invariance of the constitutive tensors under different load scenarios, enabling inaccessible deformation patterns. Based on these features, we unveil a bulk mode that breaks static reciprocity, providing an explicit and programmable way to manipulate the non-reciprocal transmission of displacement fields in static mechanics. Besides non-reciprocal Poisson’s ratios, we also realize ultra-large and step-like values, which make metamaterials exhibit orthogonally bidirectional displacement amplification, and expansion under both tension and compression, respectively.
Does Black vs. White race affect practitioners’ appraisal of Parkinson’s disease?
Authors: Harris Shana , Narayanan Nandakumar S. , Tranel Daniel
Published: July 2023

Black patients are diagnosed with Parkinson’s disease (PD) at half the rate as White patients. The reasons for this large disparity are unknown. Here, we review evidence that practitioner bias may contribute. A key sign of PD is hypomimia or decreased facial expressivity. However, practitioner bias surrounding facial expressivity in Black people versus White people may lead practitioners to appraise Black patients with hypomimia as having higher levels of facial expressivity. Furthermore, practitioner bias may cause them to characterize reduced facial expressivity as being due to negative personality traits, as opposed to a medical sign, in Black patients with hypomimia. This racial bias in the evaluation of hypomimia in Black versus White patients could profoundly impact subsequent referral decisions and rates of diagnosis of PD. Therefore, exploring these differences is expected to facilitate addressing health care disparities through earlier and more accurate detection of PD in Black patients.
Satellite mapping of maize cropland in one-season planting areas of China
Authors: Xin Qi , Zhang Liqiang , Qu Ying , Geng Hao , Li Xingang , Peng Shuwen
Published: July 2023

Abstracts

As the major maize-cultivated areas, the one-season cropland of China is increasingly threatened by rapid urbanization and soybean rejuvenation. Quantifying the area changes of maize cropland is crucial for both food and energy security. Nonetheless, due to the lack of survey data related to planting types, long-term and fine-grained maize cropland maps in China dominated by small-scale farmlands are still unavailable. In this paper, we collect 75,657 samples based on field surveys and propose a deep learning-based method according to the phenology information of maize. With the generalization capability, the proposed method produces maize cropland maps with a resolution of 30 m from 2013 to 2021 in the one-season planting areas of China. The maize-cultivated areas derived from the maps are highly consistent with the data recorded by statistical yearbooks (R2 = 0.85 on average), which indicates that the produced maps are reliable to facilitate the research on food and energy security.
Radially varying viscosity and entropy generation effect on the Newtonian nanofluid flow between two co-axial tubes with peristalsis
Authors: Sayed H. A. , Abouzeid M. Y.
Published: July 2023

To examine the peristaltic motion of a Newtonian fluid through an axisymmetric tube, many writers assume that viscosity is either a constant or a radius exponential function in Stokes’ equations. In this study, viscosity is predicated on both the radius and the axial coordinate. The peristaltic transport of a Newtonian nanofluid with radially varying viscosity and entropy generation has been studied. Under the long-wavelength assumption, fluid flows through a porous media between co-axial tubes, with heat transfer. The inner tube is uniform, while the outer tube is flexible and has a sinusoidal wave travelling down its wall. The momentum equation is solved exactly, and the energy and nanoparticle concentration equations are solved using the homotopy perturbation technique. Furthermore, entropy generation is obtained. The numerical results for the behaviours of velocity, temperature, and nanoparticle concentration, as well as the Nusselt number and Sherwood number with physical problem parameters, are obtained and graphically depicted. It is discovered that as the values of the viscosity parameter and the Prandtl number rise, so does the value of the axial velocity. Temperature values decrease as the wave amplitude and radiation parameter increase. Furthermore, at high values of the dependent viscosity parameter, the fluid nanoparticle gains more active energy and can move more freely, which is the main idea behind crude oil refinement. This physical modelling is essential for some physiological flows, such as the flow of stomach juice during the insertion of an endoscope.
Anatomical variations of the calcaneofibular ligament in human foetuses
Authors: Ruzik K. , Gonera B. , Podgórski M. , Zielinska N. , Balcerzak A. , Olewnik Ł.
Published: July 2023

Ligaments anatomy often show a huge anatomy variations between species and individuals. For example calcaneofibular ligaments (CFL) characterize the great variability of morphological shape or presence of additional bands. The aim of this study was to propose first anatomical classification of CFL concerning on human fetuses. We investigated thirty spontaneously-aborted human fetuses aged 18–38 weeks of gestation at death. Sixty lower limbs (30 left and 30 right) fixed in 10% formalin solution were examined. The morphological variability of CFL was assessed. Four types of CFL morphology were observed. Type I was characterized by a band shape. This was the most common type, occurring in 53% of all cases. Based on our study we are proposing a classification based on four morphological types of CFL. Types 2 and 4 are further divided into subtypes. Present classification may be useful to better understand the anatomical development of ankle joint.
Evaluation of nimotuzumab Fab2 as an optical imaging agent in EGFR positive cancers
Authors: Bernhard Wendy , Barreto Kris , Toledo Darien , El-Sayed Ayman , Jett Kimberly A. , Casaco Angel , Fonge Humphrey , Geyer C. Ronald
Published: July 2023

Molecular-targeted imaging probes can be used with a variety of imaging modalities to detect diseased tissues and guide their removal. EGFR is a useful biomarker for a variety of cancers, because it is expressed at high levels relative to normal tissues. Previously, we showed the anti-EGFR antibody nimotuzumab can be used as a positron emission tomography and fluorescent imaging probe for EGFR positive cancers in mice. These imaging probes are currently in clinical trials for PET imaging and image-guided surgery, respectively. One issue with using antibody probes for imaging is their long circulation time and slow tissue penetration, which requires patients to wait a few days after injection before imaging or surgery, multiple visits and longer radiation exposure. Here, we generated a Fab2 fragment of nimotuzumab, by pepsin digestion and labeled it with IRDye800CW to evaluate its optical imaging properties. The Fab2 had faster tumor accumulation and clearance in mice relative to the nimotuzumab IgG. The fluorescent signal peaked at 2 h post injection and remained high until 6 h post injection. The properties of the Fab2 allow a higher signal to background to be obtained in a shorter time frame, reducing the wait time for imaging after probe infusion.
A microfluidic approach for label-free identification of small-sized microplastics in seawater
Authors: Gong Liyuan , Martinez Omar , Mesquita Pedro , Kurtz Kayla , Xu Yang , Lin Yang
Published: July 2023

Marine microplastics are emerging as a growing environmental concern due to their potential harm to marine biota. The substantial variations in their physical and chemical properties pose a significant challenge when it comes to sampling and characterizing small-sized microplastics. In this study, we introduce a novel microfluidic approach that simplifies the trapping and identification process of microplastics in surface seawater, eliminating the need for labeling. We examine various models, including support vector machine, random forest, convolutional neural network (CNN), and residual neural network (ResNet34), to assess their performance in identifying 11 common plastics. Our findings reveal that the CNN method outperforms the other models, achieving an impressive accuracy of 93% and a mean area under the curve of 98 ± 0.02%. Furthermore, we demonstrate that miniaturized devices can effectively trap and identify microplastics smaller than 50 µm. Overall, this proposed approach facilitates efficient sampling and identification of small-sized microplastics, potentially contributing to crucial long-term monitoring and treatment efforts.
Role of natural gas and nuclear energy consumption in fostering environmental sustainability in India
Authors: Adebayo Tomiwa Sunday , Ozturk Ilhan , Ağa Mehmet , Uhunamure Solomon Eghosa , Kirikkaleli Dervis , Shale Karabo
Published: July 2023

This paper investigates the role of nuclear energy in promoting ecological sustainability in India, focusing on three ecological indicators: ecological footprint (EF), CO2 emissions (CO2), and load capacity factor (LF). In addition to nuclear energy, the study considers the influence of gas consumption and other drivers of ecological sustainability using data spanning from 1970 to 2018. The analysis also takes into account the impact of the 2008 global financial crisis on the model, employing the autoregressive distributed lag (ARDL) and frequency domain causality approaches to assess the relationships. Unlike previous studies, this research evaluates both the Environmental Kuznets Curve (EKC) and load capacity curve (LCC) hypotheses. The ARDL results support the validity of both the EKC and LCC hypotheses in the Indian context. Furthermore, the findings reveal that nuclear energy and human capital contribute positively to ecological quality, while gas consumption and economic growth have a negative impact on ecological sustainability. The study also highlights the increasing effect of the 2008 global financial crisis on ecological sustainability. Additionally, the causality analysis demonstrates that nuclear energy, human capital, gas consumption, and economic growth can serve as predictors of long-term ecological sustainability in India. Based on these findings, the research presents policy recommendations that can guide efforts towards achieving SDGs 7 and 13.
Inverse relationship between femoral lateralization and neck-shaft angle is a joint event after intramedullary nailing of per trochanteric fractures
Authors: Fang Long , Qi Jian , Wang ZhengYu , Liu JiSong , Zhao TingBao , Lin YongJie , Hao Wei
Published: July 2023

This study explored the relationship between femoral lateralization and femoral neck-shaft angle after intramedullary nail (IM) fixation for per trochanteric fractures. 70 patients (AO/OTA 31A1-2) were investigated. Anteroposterior (AP) and lateral X-ray views pre- and post-operation were recorded. Patients were classified into three groups according to the position of the medial cortex of the head-neck fragment to that of the femoral shaft: being slightly superomedial (positive medial cortex support, PMCS), being smoothly contacted (neutral position, NP) or being displaced laterally (negative medial cortex support, NMCS). Patient demographics, femoral lateralization, and neck-shaft angle were measured and statistically analyzed pre- and post-operation. Functional recovery was evaluated by Harris score 3- and 6- months post-operation. All cases ultimately demonstrated radiographic fracture union. There was a tendency to have an increased neck-shaft angle (valgus alignment) in the PMCS group and increased femoral lateralization in the NP group (p < 0.05). Among those three groups, the change in femoral lateralization and neck-shaft angle was statistically different (p < 0.05). An inverse relationship between femoral lateralization and femoral neck-shaft angle was observed. Femoral lateralization increased correspondingly when the neck-shaft angle continuously decreased from the PMCS group to the NP group and then to the NMCS group, and patients in the PMCS group had better functional recovery than the other two groups (p < 0.05). Femoral lateralization was commonly produced after IM fixation for per trochanteric fractures. The fracture fixed in PMCS mode possesses the slightest change in femoral lateralization while maintaining valgus alignment of the femoral neck-shaft angle and good functional outcome, which is superior to NP or NMCS mode.
A systematic review and meta-analysis of the prevalence of dyslipidaemia among adults in Malaysia
Authors: Mohamed-Yassin Mohamed-Syarif , Rosman Norhidayah , Kamaruddin Khairatul Nainey , Miptah Hayatul Najaa , Baharudin Noorhida , Ramli Anis Safura , Abdul-Razak Suraya , Lai Nai Ming ,   GLOBALDYS Study Investigators
Published: July 2023

Dyslipidaemia is an established cardiovascular risk factor. This study aimed to determine the pooled prevalence of dyslipidaemia in Malaysian adults. A systematic review and meta-analysis of all cross-sectional, longitudinal observational studies which reported the prevalence of elevated total cholesterol (TC), low-density lipoprotein cholesterol (LDL-c), triglycerides (TG), and reduced high-density lipoprotein cholesterol (HDL-c) in adults 18 years old and older, was conducted. A comprehensive search of PubMed and Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials (which included Medline, EMBASE and major trial registers) from inception to October 18, 2022, was performed. Risk-of-bias was evaluated using the Johanna-Briggs Institute Prevalence Critical Appraisal Tool, while certainty of evidence was assessed using an adapted version of the Grading of Recommendations Assessment, Development, and Evaluation (GRADE) framework. Random-effects meta-analyses were performed using MetaXL. This report follows the PRISMA reporting guidelines. The protocol was registered with PROSPERO (CRD42020200281). 26 556 studies were retrieved and 7 941 were shortlisted initially. From this, 70 Malaysian studies plus two studies from citation searching were shortlisted; 46 were excluded, and 26 were included in the review (n = 50 001). The pooled prevalence of elevated TC (≥ 5.2 mmol/L), elevated LDL-c (≥ 2.6 mmol/L), elevated TG (≥ 1.7 mmol/L), and low HDL-c (< 1.0 mmol/L in men and < 1.3 mmol/L in women) were 53% (95% CI 39–67%, I2 = 100%), 73% (95% CI 50–92%, I2 = 100%), 36% (95% CI 32–40%, I2 = 96%), and 40% (95% CI 25–55%, I2 = 99%), respectively. This review found that the prevalence of all dyslipidaemia subtypes is high in Malaysian adults. Ongoing efforts to reduce cardiovascular diseases in Malaysia should integrate effective detection and treatment of dyslipidaemia.
Anthropogenic impact on the severity of compound extreme high temperature and drought/rain events in China
Authors: Li Wanling , Sun Bo , Wang Huijun , Zhou Botao , Li Huixin , Xue Rufan , Duan Mingkeng , Luo Xiaochun , Ai Wenwen
Published: July 2023

Compared with individual extreme events, compound events have more severe impacts on humans and the natural environment. This study explores the change in severity of compound extreme high temperature and drought/rain events (CHTDE/CHTRE) and associated influencing factors. The CHTDE and CHTRE intensified in most areas of China in summer (June–July August) during 1961–2014. Under global warming, the increased water-holding capacity of the atmosphere and the decreased relative humidity led to an increase in the severity of CHTDE. The severity of CHTRE is increased because of enhanced transient water vapor convergence and convective motion. Anthropogenic climate change, especially greenhouse gas forcing, which contributes 90% to the linear change in the severity of CHTDE and CHTRE, is identified as the dominant factor affecting the severity of CHTDE in China. In addition, the historical natural forcing (hist-NAT) may be related to the interannual-to-decadal variability in the severity of CHTDE/CHTRE.
Randomized-controlled trial assessing a digital care program versus conventional physiotherapy for chronic low back pain
Authors: Cui Di , Janela Dora , Costa Fabíola , Molinos Maria , Areias Anabela C. , Moulder Robert G. , Scheer Justin K. , Bento Virgílio , Cohen Steven P. , Yanamadala Vijay , Correia Fernando Dias
Published: July 2023

Low back pain (LBP) is the world’s leading cause of years lived with disability. Digital exercise-based interventions have shown great potential in the management of musculoskeletal conditions, promoting access and easing the economic burden. However, evidence of their effectiveness for chronic LBP (CLBP) management compared to in-person physiotherapy has yet to be unequivocally established. This randomized controlled trial (RCT) aims to compare the clinical outcomes of patients with CLBP following a digital intervention versus evidence-based in-person physiotherapy. Our results demonstrate that patient satisfaction and adherence were high and similar between groups, although a significantly lower dropout rate is observed in the digital group (11/70, 15.7% versus 24/70, 34.3% in the conventional group; P = 0.019). Both groups experience significant improvements in disability (primary outcome), with no differences between groups in change from baseline (median difference: −0.55, 95% CI: −2.42 to 5.81, P = 0.412) or program-end scores (−1.05, 95% CI: −4.14 to 6.37; P = 0.671). Likewise, no significant differences between groups are found for secondary outcomes (namely pain, anxiety, depression, and overall productivity impairment). This RCT demonstrates that a remote digital intervention for CLBP can promote the same levels of recovery as evidence-based in-person physiotherapy, being a potential avenue to ease the burden of CLBP.
An unsupervised deep learning algorithm for single-site reconstruction in quantum gas microscopes
Authors: Impertro Alexander , Wienand Julian F. , Häfele Sophie , von Raven Hendrik , Hubele Scott , Klostermann Till , Cabrera Cesar R. , Bloch Immanuel , Aidelsburger Monika
Published: July 2023

In quantum gas microscopy experiments, reconstructing the site-resolved lattice occupation with high fidelity is essential for the accurate extraction of physical observables. For short interatomic separations and limited signal-to-noise ratio, this task becomes increasingly challenging. Common methods rapidly decline in performance as the lattice spacing is decreased below half the imaging resolution. Here, we present an algorithm based on deep convolutional neural networks to reconstruct the site-resolved lattice occupation with high fidelity. The algorithm can be directly trained in an unsupervised fashion with experimental fluorescence images and allows for a fast reconstruction of large images containing several thousand lattice sites. We benchmark its performance using a quantum gas microscope with cesium atoms that utilizes short-spaced optical lattices with lattice constant 383.5 nm and a typical Rayleigh resolution of 850 nm. We obtain promising reconstruction fidelities ≳ 96% across all fillings based on a statistical analysis. We anticipate this algorithm to enable novel experiments with shorter lattice spacing, boost the readout fidelity and speed of lower-resolution imaging systems, and furthermore find application in related experiments such as trapped ions.
GABA and fermented litchi juice enriched with GABA promote the beneficial effects in ameliorating obesity by regulating the gut microbiota in HFD-induced mice
Authors: Wang Dongwei , Deng Yani , Zhao Lei , Wang Kai , Wu Dongmei , Hu Zhuoyan , Liu Xuwei
Published: July 2023

Gamma-aminobutyric acid (GABA) and fermented litchi juice enriched with GABA dietary interventions are considered to have therapeutic potential against obesity.
Analysis and electroanalysis of perchlorate in water and food samples: a critical review
Authors: Buzid Alyah , Boertjes Janine , Gilchrist Elizabeth S. , Glennon Jeremy D. , Luong John H. T.
Published: July 2023

Perchlorate, ClO4−, with diverse applications, has become one of the major contaminants in surface and groundwater sources.
CdS/TiO2 nanostructures synthesized via the SILAR method for enhanced photocatalytic glucose conversion and simultaneous hydrogen production under UV and simulated solar irradiation
Authors: Roongraung Kamonchanok , Cherevan Alexey , Eder Dominik , Chuangchote Surawut
Published: July 2023

TiO2 nanoparticles and TiO2 nanotubes are successfully modified with CdS using the SILAR method. The materials can enhance photocatalytic performance for glucose conversion and hydrogen production under both UV and simulated solar irradiation.
The synergistic role of sulfuric acid, ammonia and organics in particle formation over an agricultural land
Authors: Dada Lubna , Okuljar Magdalena , Shen Jiali , Olin Miska , Wu Yusheng , Heimsch Laura , Herlin Ilkka , Kankaanrinta Saara , Lampimäki Markus , Kalliokoski Joni , Baalbaki Rima , Lohila Annalea , Petäjä Tuukka , Maso Miikka Dal , Duplissy Jonathan , Kerminen Veli-Matti , Kulmala Markku
Published: July 2023

Agricultural lands produce high loads of aerosol particles, which could cool the climate, overcoming the well-known climate warming effects of agriculture.
Sustainable surgical masks: optimizing fine/ultrafine particle filtration using PVA/chitosan electrospun nanofibers
Authors: da Mata Gustavo Cardoso , Morais Maria Sirlene , de Oliveira Wanderley Pereira , Aguiar Mônica Lopes
Published: July 2023

PVA/chitosan electrospun nanofibers optimized with response surface methodology were used as substitutes for nondegradable polymeric filtering layer of surgical masks. Testing proved the nanofibers' efficacy for air filtration of ultrafine particles.
Intensive harmonized synapses with amorphous Cu2O-based memristors using ultrafine Cu nanoparticle sublayers formed via atomically controlled electrochemical pulse deposition
Authors: Kim Dong Su , Suh Hee Won , Cho Sung Woon , Oh Shin Young , Lee Hak Hyeon , Lee Kun Woong , Choi Ji Hoon , Cho Hyung Koun
Published: July 2023

During the electrodeposition process, copper nanoparticles (Cu NPs) are deposited through the electrically favorable path inside the semiconductor layer. The paths crossing the Cu NPs correspond to the location of multiple conductive filaments.
Ultra-robust, high-adhesive, self-healing, and photothermal zwitterionic hydrogels for multi-sensory applications and solar-driven evaporation
Authors: Chen Youyou , Zhang Chen , Yin Rui , Yu Minghan , Liu Yijie , Liu Yaming , Wang Haoran , Liu Feihua , Cao Feng , Chen Guoqing , Zhao Weiwei
Published: July 2023

A new class of high-performance and multifunctional zwitterionic hydrogels were designed based on the incorporation of polydopamine-coated liquid metal nanoparticles into poly(sulfobetaine methacrylate) zwitterionic hydrogels.
Design of anti-thermal quenching Pr3+-doped niobate phosphors based on a charge transfer and intervalence charge transfer band excitation-driven strategy
Authors: Yang Chunwei , Guo Ning , Qu Song , Ma Qincan , Liu Jianxia , Chen Shunyi , Ouyang Ruizhuo
Published: July 2023

Based on the charge transfer and intervalence charge transfer mechanism, an excitation-driven strategy was employed to achieve single compensation and dual compensation anti-thermal quenching of 1D2 red-emitting in YNbO4:Pr3+ phosphor.
An organic–inorganic hybrid polyoxoniobate decorated by a Co(iii)-amine complex for electrocatalytic urea splitting
Authors: Li Da-Huan , Shi Nian , Wang Yong-Jiang , Cai Ping-Wei , Sun Yan-Qiong , Zheng Shou-Tian
Published: July 2023

A polyoxoniobate decorated by Co(iii)-amine complex, Na4(H2O)15[Co(en)3]2{[Co(en)(Nb6O19)]2}·34H2O exhibits remarkable catalytic activity for urea oxidation reaction after being firmly attached to the surface of acetylene black by polyethyleneimine.
Polymeric nanomaterials with aggregation-induced emission characteristics
Authors: Gao Feng , Wei Weichen , Xu Yanning , Zhao Zheng , Qiu Zijie , Tang Ben Zhong
Published: July 2023

Polymeric nanomaterials with aggregation-induced emission (AIE) characteristics have attracted significant attention from the scientific community because of their extensive biomedical applications.
Recent advances in the synthesis and catalytic applications of metal–organic framework/covalent organic framework composites
Authors: Zhang Yanyan , Lu Guilong , Zhao Danfeng , Huang Xiubing
Published: July 2023

MOF/COF composites constructed by heterojunction, functionalization, or integration show enhanced performance in photo-, thermo-, and electrocatalysis. This review is informative for rational design and mechanism understanding of MOF/COF catalysts.
Gallium-based liquid metal hybridizing MoS2 nanosheets with reversible rheological characteristics and enhanced lubrication properties
Authors: Li Xing , Wang Ruizhi , Li Jiaqian , Dong Guangneng , Song Qinghua , Wang Bing , Liu Zhanqiang
Published: July 2023

Gallium-based liquid metal (GLM) is a promising lubricant candidate due to its high load capacity and high thermal stability.
Reusable nano-catalyzed green protocols for the synthesis of quinoxalines: an overview
Authors: Keri Rangappa S. , Reddy Dinesh , Budagumpi Srinivasa , Adimule Vinayak
Published: July 2023

Heterocyclic compounds are very widely distributed in nature and are essential for life activities.
Fluorescence sensing and bioimaging of Cu(ii) ions using amino-1,8-naphthalimide-based small-molecule chemosensors
Authors: Mohan Binduja , Kunhumon Noushija Mannanthara , Shanmugaraju Sankarasekaran
Published: July 2023

In this article, we provide a detailed discussion of the applications of various amino-1,8-naphthalimide-based small-molecule fluorescence chemosensors for selective fluorescence sensing and bioimaging of Cu(ii) ions.
Platform chemicals from hardwood black liquor via hydrothermal liquefaction: influence of process conditions on product yields and quality
Authors: Harisankar S. , Vinu Ravikrishnan
Published: July 2023

Hydrothermal liquefaction is a promising process to valorize the complex black liquor to phenol-rich liquid product.
Process simulation and economic evaluation of the industrial production of short-chain polyglycerol oligomers
Authors: de Oliveira Lívia G. N. , Cavalcante Raquel M. , Young André F.
Published: July 2023

A PG plant was designed for maximizing diglycerol or triglycerol production. Economic viability depends on the market conditions. Product separation represents the largest fraction of the costs and the biggest bottleneck for a multipurpose design.
A bifunctional electrolyte for activating Mg–Li hybrid batteries
Authors: Sun Wenlu , Chen Lu , Wang Jun , Zhang Hui , Quan Zhilong , Fu Fang , Kong Huabin , Wang Shibin , Chen Hongwei
Published: July 2023

A dual-salt electrolyte enabled a fast co-insertion cathode and an ultra-stable Mg anode, achieving a stable full battery with acceptable energy density.
Fabrication of dianthracene-based hyper-cross-linked polymers for selective photocatalytic oxidation of organic sulfides
Authors: Diao Ze-Jiu , Wu Guan-Zhou , Zhang Tian-Jing , Qi Hang-Ou , Li Jing-Jing , Lu Ming , Liu Guoliang , Liu Xiao-Qin , Sun Lin-Bing
Published: July 2023

Two dianthracene-based hyper-cross-linked polymers are developed as photocatalysts for selective photocatalytic oxidation of organic sulfides for the first time.
Trap states engineering toward all-inorganic CsPbBr3perovskite nanocrystals for highly efficient light-emitting diodes
Authors: Jin Xudong , Miao Yanqin , Dong Jianhua , Wang Jingkun , Lu Qiqing , Zhao Min , Xu Bingshe , Guo Junjie
Published: July 2023

A trap states engineering strategy was reported for the preparation of high-quality CsPbBr3PeNCs using 4-dodecylbenzenesulfonic acid as the surface ligand, which could effectively reduce the trap states density and improve the device performance.
Facile construction of a BiVO4/CoV-LDHs/Ag photoanode for enhanced photo-electrocatalytic glycerol oxidation and hydrogen evolution
Authors: Xie Zhengzhe , Liu Xiaoyuan , Jia Pengpeng , Zou Yu , Jiang Jiang
Published: July 2023

The BiVO4/CoV-LDHs/Ag photoanode displays excellent photo-electrochemical glycerol oxidation activity, reaching 7.15 mA cm−2 at 1.23 V.
Hearing Assistive Technology Facilitates Sentence-in-Noise Recognition in Chinese Children With Autism Spectrum Disorder
Authors: Xu Suyun , Fan Juan , Zhang Hua , Zhang Minyue , Zhao Hang , Jiang Xiaoming , Ding Hongwei , Zhang Yang
Published: July 2023

Purpose:

Hearing assistive technology (HAT) has been shown to be a viable solution to the speech-in-noise perception (SPIN) issue in children with autism spectrum disorder (ASD); however, little is known about its efficacy in tonal language speakers. This study compared sentence-level SPIN performance between Chinese children with ASD and neurotypical (NT) children and evaluated HAT use in improving SPIN performance and easing SPIN difficulty.

Method:

Children with ASD (
n
= 26) and NT children (
n
= 19) aged 6–12 years performed two adaptive tests in steady-state noise and three fixed-level tests in quiet and steady-state noise with and without using HAT. Speech recognition thresholds (SRTs) and accuracy rates were assessed using adaptive and fixed-level tests, respectively. Parents or teachers of the ASD group completed a questionnaire regarding children's listening difficulty under six circumstances before and after a 10-day trial period of HAT use.

Results:

Although the two groups of children had comparable SRTs, the ASD group showed a significantly lower SPIN accuracy rate than the NT group. Also, a significant impact of noise was found in the ASD group's accuracy rate but not in that of the NT group. There was a general improvement in the ASD group's SPIN performance with HAT and a decrease in their listening difficulty ratings across all conditions after the device trial.

Conclusions:

The findings indicated inadequate SPIN in the ASD group using a relatively sensitive measure to gauge SPIN performance among children. The markedly increased accuracy rate in noise during HAT-on sessions for the ASD group confirmed the feasibility of HAT for improving SPIN performance in controlled laboratory settings, and the reduced post-use ratings of listening difficulty further confirmed the benefits of HAT use in daily scenarios.
Fuzzy coloured petri nets‐based method to analyse and verify the functionality of software
Authors: Chavoshi Mina , Babamir Seyed Morteza
Published: July 2023

Some types of software systems, like event‐based and non‐deterministic ones, are usually specified as rules so that we can analyse the system behaviour by drawing inferences from firing the rules. However, when the fuzzy rules are used for the specification of non‐deterministic behaviour and they contain a large number of variables, they constitute a complex form that is difficult to understand and infer. A solution is to visualise the system specification with the capability of automatic rule inference. In this study, by representing a high‐level system specification, the authors visualise rule representation and firing using fuzzy coloured Petri‐nets. Already, several fuzzy Petri‐nets‐based methods have been presented, but they either do not support a large number of rules and variables or do not consider significant cases like (a) the weight of the premise's propositions in the occurrence of the rule conclusion, (b) the weight of conclusion's proposition, (c) threshold values for premise and conclusion's propositions of the rule, and (d) the certainty factor (CF) for the rule or the conclusion's proposition. By considering cases (a)–(d), a wider variety of fuzzy rules are supported. The authors applied their model to the analysis of attacks against a part of a real secure water treatment system. In another real experiment, the authors applied the model to the two scenarios from their previous work and analysed the results.
Solving wind‐integrated unit commitment problem by a modified African vultures optimization algorithm
Authors: Abuelrub Ahmad , Awwad Boshra , Al‐Masri Hussein M. K.
Published: July 2023

Unit commitment (UC) stands out as a significant challenge in electrical power systems. With the rapid growth in power demand and the pressing issues of fossil fuel scarcity and global warming, it has become crucial to enhance the utilization of renewable energy sources. This study focuses on addressing the UC problem by incorporating a wind farm and proposes a modified version of the metaheuristic African vultures optimization algorithm (AVOA) in binary form, utilizing the sigmoid transfer function. The modified AVOA employs multiple phase‐shift tactics to overcome premature local optima. By determining the on/off status of generating units, the modified AVOA improves the algorithm's effectiveness. Additionally, the paper develops an auto‐regressive moving average model (ARMA) to forecast wind speeds, with the AVOA assisting in selecting the optimal orders (q and p) of the ARMA model. This is done using historical wind speed data to capture uncertainty in the wind speed. The wind power is then calculated using various models and integrated into the UC problem. The effectiveness of the modified AVOA is examined on the IEEE 30‐bus system. The binary AVOA (BAVOA) outperforms several algorithms presented in the case study, demonstrating its superiority. Furthermore, the results indicate that BAVOA delivers superior outcomes within the discrete search space when compared to the continuous search space.
Natural compound chaetocin induced DNA damage and apoptosis through reactive oxygen species‐dependent pathways in A549 lung cancer cells and in vitro evaluations
Authors: Zhang Qi , Ruan Feng , Yang Maonan , Wen Qinghui
Published: July 2023

There is an urgent need for potential pharmaceutics for lung cancer treatment due to the increased number of lung cancer deaths and the resistance of cancer cells to present therapeutics. The present work aims to discover the anticancer potential of the natural compound chaetocin as a therapeutic for lung cancer treatment. Results showed the significance of chaetocin‐induced cell growth inhibition by the expression of G2/M phase arrest and reactive oxygen species (ROS) dependent apoptosis in A549 lung cancer cells. Results concluded that chaetocin could produce ROS and nuclear damage against A549 lung cancer cells. Interestingly, chaetocin exhibits a significant level of CD47 that down‐regulates the expression of CD47 at mRNA levels. PBMC biocompatibility study revealed that chaetocin is non‐toxic to normal cells. Overall, experimental results suggested that chaetocin induces A549 cell apoptosis, by causing ROS and nuclear damage activation pathways. In the future, chaetocin might be an effective bio‐safe anticancer agent for lung cancer treatments.
Effect of activation procedures on ammonia adsorption of bagasse fly ash from sugar industry waste
Authors: Cholwatthanatanakorn Natchapon , Ketwong Tulakarn , Wibowo Haryo , Areeprasert Chinnathan
Published: July 2023

In this study, the effect of activation procedures on the ammonia adsorption of BFA was investigated. BFA was activated by chemical and physical methods, and the adsorption capacity and surface properties of BFA were analyzed. The results showed that both chemical and physical activation methods increased the BET surface area and porosity of BFA, which in turn enhanced its ammonia adsorption capacity. Specifically, chemically activated BFA performed the best, with a capacity of 5.34 mg/g. This study provides insights into the optimization of BFA as an adsorbent for ammonia and contributes to the development of sustainable and low-cost adsorption technologies.
Characteristics of biomass briquettes from coffee husk as sustainable fuel
Authors: Anggono Willyanto , Jeremy Gotama Gabriel , Pronk Christian , Christian Hernando Ivan , Sutrisno Teng
Published: July 2023

Coffee husk is a waste from coffee milling, which is usually used by farmers as a natural fertilizer. However, it is not uncommon that coffee husk is entirely discarded despite their potential as fuel briquette. Furthermore, coffee husk may replace tapioca as a non-edible binder alternative to tapioca. As such, this study aims to determine the potential of coffee husk waste as briquette material and binder. Manufacturing parameters that include the particle size, the biomass-to-binder ratio, and the press pressure, were varied, and the briquettes were analyzed based on the high heating value (HHV), and using proximate and ultimate analyses under ASTM standards. In addition, common combustion characteristics, such as flame temperature, ignition time, burning duration, and burning rate were determined. The highest HHV was found in coffee husk briquettes without adhesive at 3811 Kcal/Kg. The combustion characteristic test showed that briquettes with a particle size of 60 mesh and a press pressure of 2 MPa have the most desired combustion characteristics.
An experimental cum computational economical approach for evaluation of performance loss rate or degradation rate for realistic roof-top PV plant in south India
Authors: Sundaram Sivasankari , Almas
Published: July 2023

Degradation rate in Solar photovoltaic systems is truly an important factor affecting economic feasibility. A linear drop in performance is typically assumed during the operational life-time of the PV system. However, the operational ground performance data reveal that the degradation rate for PVmodule based systems is often non-linear similar to the present investigation. This, if neglected, can cause financial uncertainty. So, this paper presents an experimental field estimation coupled with an analytical model-based approach for prediction of degradation of Solar PV systems. A section of 380 kWp PV system is considered for the present work. Furthermore, comparison of regressors encompassing non-linearities like random forest and decision tree-based are attempted for model formulation. The work is also supported with a comprehensive review on modelling approaches for assessment of degradation-based failure modes in Solar PV system. The experimental average value of degradation rate of the 380 kWp PV system is 7.78% or 0.0778. The reported analytical models possess a close match with the experimental results which are quantified by MPE whose value ranges from a minimum of 1.79% to a maximum of 10.4%. The annual performance ratio of the considered system for study is as less as 0.4 indicating and justifying the occurrence of failure effects in the system.
Black spot diseases in seven commercial fish species from the English Channel and the North Sea: infestation levels, identification and population genetics of Cryptocotyle spp.
Authors: Duflot Maureen , Cresson Pierre , Julien Maéva , Chartier Léa , Bourgau Odile , Palomba Marialetizia , Mattiucci Simonetta , Midelet Graziella , Gay Mélanie
Published: July 2023

Fish are often speckled with “black spots” caused by metacercarial trematode infection, inducing a host response. Cryptocotyle spp. (Opisthorchiidae) are among the parasites responsible for this phenomenon. So far, the impact on human health is still unknown. In addition, few publications dealing with black spot recovery, identification, distribution and diversity among commercially important fish are available. Moreover, “black spots” have been observed by fishermen on marine fish, revealing an appreciable but unquantified presence in consumed fish. An epidemiological survey of 1,586 fish from seven commercial species (herring, sprat, whiting, pout, dab, flounder, and plaice) was conducted in the Eastern English Channel and the North Sea in January 2019 and 2020. Encysted metacercariae were found in 325 out of 1,586 fish, with a total prevalence of 20.5%. Intensity of infection varied from 1 to 1,104 parasites. The recorded encysted metacercariae were identified either by microscopic examination or with molecular tools. Partial sequences of the mtDNA cox1 gene and of the rDNA ITS region were obtained. Two species of Cryptocotyle, Cryptocotyle lingua (Creplin, 1825) and Cryptocotyle concava (Creplin, 1825) were found. Metacercariae belonging to other trematode families were also identified. Molecular phylogenetic analysis and haplotype network construction were performed to confirm the identification and to study the potential presence of different populations of Cryptocotyle spp. This survey enabled us to describe the distribution of two species of Cryptocotyle in the English Channel and North Sea ecosystems. The observed differences in infestation levels between fish species and geographical areas will contribute to better understanding of the ecology of these parasites.
Akzeptanz, Wissen und Einstellungen von Ärzten zu pharmakogenetischen Tests in der Psychiatrie
Authors: Eckert Andreas , Frantz Amelie , Reif Andreas , Hahn Martina
Published: July 2023

Hintergrund Obwohl es mehrere Leitlinien für Psychopharmaka und deren Arzneimittel-Gen-Interaktionen gibt, ist die Implementierung in Deutschland nur an wenigen Standorten erfolgt.

Ziel der Studie Das Aufdecken möglicher Barrieren für eine Einführung von pharmakogenetischen Tests (PGx) in der Psychiatrie.

Material und Methoden Ausgabe eines Fragebogens mit 20 Items an 29 Ärzte, 5 Psychologen und 2 Medizinstudenten zu Akzeptanz, Wissen und Einstellung zu PGx. Die Datenanalyse erfolgte mit der Statistiksoftware R. Zur Analyse der Likert-Skalen kam der Mann-Whitney-U-Test, für die anderen Berechnungen der Exakte Fisher-Test zur Anwendung.

Ergebnisse und Diskussion 31,4 % hatten an einer Schulung zu Pharmakogenetik teilgenommen. 88,6 % erachteten PGx bei der Auswahl eines Medikamentes als sinnvoll, 97 % wären bereit, PGx anzubieten. Die Bereitschaft zur Testung fiel größer aus, wenn bereits ein Kurs in Pharmakogenetik besucht worden war (p = 0,031) und bei längerer Berufserfahrung (p = 0,324). 82,9 % gaben an, während der Ausbildung nicht auf die Interpretation von PGx-Befunden vorbereitet worden zu sein. Das Interesse an PGx war unabhängig von Berufserfahrung und Alter hoch. Klinische Pharmazeuten wurden als kompetente Unterstützung bei der Befundinterpretation angesehen.

Schlussfolgerung Besonders regelmäßige Schulungen und eine Aufnahme von Pharmakogenetik in das Curriculum des Medizinstudiums könnten dazu beitragen, dass PGx schneller implementiert wird.
Synthetic Osmotic Dilators for Pre-Induction Cervical Ripening – an Evidence-Based Review
Authors: Rath Werner , Kummer Julia , Königbauer Josefine T. , Hellmeyer Lars , Stelzl Patrick
Published: July 2023

Mechanical methods have gained growing interest for pre-induction cervical ripening in women with an unripe cervix, since they have a better safety profile compared to prostaglandins. Balloon catheters have been the gold standard method for decades, while there was a lack of data on synthetic osmotic cervical dilators.

Not until 2015, when Dilapan-S was approved by the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) for induction of labor, numerous studies have been published on the use of Dilapan-S in this field. The rate of vaginal deliveries associated with the use of Dilapan-S ranges from 61.6 to 81.7%, and no serious complications needing further interventions have been reported to this date.

Dilapan-S was shown to be as effective as the Foley balloon catheter as well as the 10 mg PGE2 vaginal insert and orally applied misoprostol (25 µg every 2 hours) in achieving vaginal delivery, but patient’s satisfaction during the cervical ripening process was significantly higher compared to the other methods and the rate of uterine hyperstimulation was significantly lower compared to prostaglandins (PGs).

Minor complications (e.g. vaginal bleeding) associated with the use of Dilapan-S were < 2%, and maternal infectious morbidity was not higher compared to Foley balloon and vaginal PGE2 or misoprostol.

Due to these beneficial properties Dilapan-S might be an ideal option for outpatient cervical ripening, as shown in a recent randomized clinical trial comparing inpatient to outpatient cervical ripening.

Furthermore, according to the manufacturers’ product information, Dilapan-S is the only cervical ripening method that is not contraindicated for induction of labor in women with a previous cesarean section. Upcoming guidelines should consider synthetic osmotic cervical dilators as an effective and safe method for cervical ripening/induction of labor acknowledging that more evidence-based data are mandatory, particularly in patients with a previous cesarean section.
Do brown people have brown thoughts? Richard Rodriguez’s philosophy of race, culture, and identity
Authors: Garcia Michael Nieto
Published: July 2023

Ever since the publication of Hunger of Memory in 1982, Richard Rodriguez has been read by scholars almost exclusively through the lens of identity politics. Twenty years later, in Brown, Rodriguez sought to reconcile some of the contradictions of identity, at least his own. Ultimately, Rodriguez concludes that the contradictions of identity cannot be reconciled. Our identities are always more complex and nuanced than the boxes we try to fit people in. In expressing his philosophy of identity, Rodriguez reflects on the concept of brownness and “brown thoughts,” invoking brown as a metaphor for cultural miscegenation, and thereby for diversity and genuine inclusion. Rodriguez’s philosophy of race, culture, and identity moves us beyond toxic forms of tribalism and cultural essentialism to an identity politics that unites rather than excluding and dividing.
Asia’s four regionalisms (Southeast Asia, South Asia, Central Asia and East Asia): a view from multilateral treaties of the United Nations
Authors: Le Lien Thi Quynh , Ho Dung Quoc , Inoguchi Takashi
Published: July 2023

This study presents a quantitative framework to analyze the engagement of four Asian sub-regions with global issues through their participation in multilateral treaties across various policy areas. The research addresses key questions regarding the speed of Asian states’ involvement in multilateral treaties and their adaptation to these treaties within the United Nations system over time. The approach combines empirical data and conceptualization to ensure a robust evidentiary basis. A dataset comprising 600 major multilateral treaties deposited in the United Nations system, covering diverse global issues, was collected. Additionally, ratification actions from twenty-eight Asian countries were categorized into four sub-regions: East Asia, South Asia, Southeast Asia, and Central Asia. To quantitatively measure states’ engagement with multilateral treaties, the study developed and calculated the Treaty Participation Index for each Asian country and sub-group. In an area predominantly characterized by qualitative research, this paper contributes to the existing literature by providing quantitative and metric findings for comparative analyses of multilateral treaty participation among the four Asian sub-regions, as well as comparisons between Asia and the rest of the world. By analyzing the results, the paper offers an evidence-based assessment of the feasibility of these four regionalisms in Asia, particularly in the context of the transition from international politics to the paradigm of global politics.
Understanding the formation of spontaneous thrombosis inside aneurysms
Authors: Liebendorfer Adam
Published: July 2023

Simulations identify parameters that most affect the formation of one type of devastating brain clots, pointing to potential new directions for therapies.