bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Uncovering Integrated Dual‐State ESIPT‐Conductivity, Redox‐Capacity, and Opto‐Electronic Responses Toward Hg(II)/ Cr(III) of Aliphatic Fluorescent Polymers
Authors: Sanfui MD Hussain , Hassan Nadira , Roy Shrestha , Chowdhury Deepak , Nandy Preetam , Chang Mincheol , Rahaman Mostafizur , Ghosh Narendra Nath , Majumdar Swapan , Chattopadhyay Pijush Kanti , Maiti Dilip K. , Singha Nayan Ranjan
Published: October 2024

Excited‐state intramolecular proton transfer (ESIPT)‐associated dual‐state emissive aliphatic dual‐light emitting conducting polymers (DLECPs) having oxidation‐reduction capacities are prepared polymerizing 2‐acrylamido‐2‐methylpropane‐1‐sulfonic acid, methacrylic acid, and 2‐methyl‐3‐(N‐(2‐methyl‐1‐sulfopropan‐2‐yl)acrylamido)propanoic acid monomers. Of as‐synthesized DLECPs, nuclear magnetic resonance (NMR) and Fourier transform infrared (FTIR) spectroscopies, fluorescent enhancements (I/I0), and computational investigation indicate intriguing photophysical features in DLECP3 (optimum composition). In DLECP3, ─CONH─, ─CON<, and ─COOH subluminophores are recognized by density‐functional theory (DFT)/time‐dependent‐DFT calculations and experimental investigations. ESIPT‐associated dual‐state emission/conductivity, aggregation‐enhanced emissions, selective opto‐electronic responses toward Hg(II)/Cr(III) at 437/574 nm, and redox properties of DLECP3 are supported by solid‐state/solution spectroscopies, time‐correlated single photon counting (TCSPC) measurements, dual‐state excitation dependent emissions, microscopic images, electrochemical measurements, and DFT calculations. Here, preferential interaction of Hg(II)/Cr(III) with DLECP3 (amide)/DLECP3 (imidol) and reduction/oxidation of Hg(II)/Cr(III) to Hg(I)/Cr(VI) are substantiated by UV–vis, FTIR, and X‐ray photoelectron spectroscopies; TCSPC measurements; NMR‐titration; electrochemical studies; alongside computational calculations. The proton‐electrical conductivities of DLECP3, Hg(II/I)‐DLECP3, and Cr(III/VI)‐DLECP3 in solids/solutions are 15.27 × 10−5/6.16 × 10−5, 19.60 × 10−5/25.52 × 10−5, and 26.69 × 10−5/27.60 × 10−5 S cm−1, respectively.
Oscillatory behavior of Ψ‐Hilfer generalized proportional fractional initial value problems
Authors: Viji James , Muthulakshmi Velu , Kumar Pushpendra
Published: October 2024

This paper deals with the oscillatory behavior of the
‐Hilfer generalized proportional fractional initial value problem. Using the Volterra integral equation and Young's inequality, we establish sufficient conditions for each solution of the problem to oscillate. For the appropriate choice of the kernel
, our obtained results generalize and recover some existing results in the literature. Additionally, we present some examples to emphasize the importance of our results.
Complete synchronization of discrete‐time fractional‐order Cohen–Grossberg neural networks with time delays via adaptive nonlinear controller
Authors: Li Tong , Li Hong‐Li , Fan Xiaolin , Zhang Long
Published: October 2024

In this paper, we dedicate to investigate complete synchronization of discrete‐time fractional‐order Cohen–Grossberg neural networks (DFCGNNs) with time delays. In order to resolve the problem, we have made the following efforts. First, we establish a fractional‐order convergence principle by employing nabla Laplace transform and analysis techniques. Next, an adaptive nonlinear controller is designed, and then several complete synchronization criteria of DFCGNNs are obtained with the help of inequality techniques and convergence principle we newly establish. Finally, a numerical example is presented to show the validity of theorical results we derive.
A neuromuscular clinician's guide to magnetic resonance neurography
Authors: Pitman Jenifer , Fayad Laura M. , Ahlawat Shivani
Published: October 2024

Magnetic resonance neurography (MRN) is increasingly used in clinical practice for the evaluation of patients with a wide spectrum of peripheral nerve disorders. This review article discusses the technical aspects of MRN highlighting the core sequences performed for clinical care. A robust, high‐resolution, heavily T2‐weighted fluid‐sensitive sequence performed on a 3.0 Tesla magnet system remains the main workhorse MRN sequence. In specific clinical scenarios, adjunct techniques such as diffusion‐weighted imaging can be added to a protocol for disease characterization. In addition, gadolinium‐based contrast material can also be administered for the purposes of image optimization (suppress adjacent vascular signal) and disease characterization. Technical modifications to field of view and planes of imaging can be made based on the clinical question and discussion with the radiologist(s). On fluid‐sensitive MRN sequences, a normal peripheral nerve exhibits iso‐ to minimally hyperintense signal relative to skeletal muscle with a predictable trajectory, preserved “fascicular” architecture, and tapered caliber from proximal to distal. Peripheral nerve abnormalities on MRN include alterations in signal, caliber, architecture, diffusion characteristics as well as enhancement and provide information regarding the underlying etiology. Although some MRN findings including nerve hyperintensity and long‐segmental enlargement are nonspecific, there are certain diagnoses that can be made with high certainty based on imaging including benign peripheral nerve tumors, high‐grade peripheral nerve injury, and intraneural ganglia. The purpose of this article is to familiarize a neuromuscular clinician with fundamentals of MRN acquisition and interpretation to facilitate communication with the neuromuscular radiologist and optimize patient care.
Fachwissen, wenn’s brennt
Authors: Adam Christian , Warmuth Lucas
Published: October 2024

Giftige Dämpfe steigen auf, umweltschädliche Flüssigkeiten sickern in den Boden – Chemieunfälle sind für die Feuerwehr besonders schwierig. Fachberater:innen für Chemie analysieren Risiken und beraten die Einsatzkräfte, um solche Gefahrensituationen kontrolliert und sicher zu bewältigen.
Gründerkolumne: Sind Gründungsinitiativen und Inkubatoren sinnvoll?
Authors: Festel Gunter
Published: October 2024

Sind Gründungsinitiativen und Inkubatoren sinnvoll?
Zwei Seiten derselben Medaille
Authors: Reschetilowski Wladimir
Published: October 2024

Beide waren Wegbereiter der angewandten physikalischen Chemie, beide erhielten einen Nobelpreis für Chemie. Doch eine persönlich‐freundschaftliche Lehrer‐Schüler‐Beziehung zwischen Wilhelm Ostwald und dem 15 Jahre jüngeren Fritz Haber gab es nicht.
Phosphinidentransfer und P‐Al‐Mehrfachbindungen
Authors: Hering‐Junghans Christian
Published: October 2024

Christian Hering‐Junghans, Dozentenpreisträger des Fonds der Chemischen Industrie, erforscht niedervalente Phosphorverbindungen. Dazu gehören Phospha‐Wittig‐Reagenzien, die Wasser und Ammoniak aktivieren, Phosphor‐Aluminium‐Cyclen, Präkatalysatoren für die iso‐Butanherstellung und Triphosphirane.
Elektronendynamiksimulation mit Wellenfunktionen für Materialanwendungen/Trendbericht Theoretische Chemie 2024 (1/3)
Authors: Bande Annika
Published: October 2024

Zeitabhängige Simulationen der Elektronendynamik gewinnen für optische Materialien und lichtinduzierte Photoreaktionen an Gewicht. Verständliche visuelle Ergebnisdarstellungen und moderne effiziente Rechenverfahren helfen dabei, die Technik zu verbreiten. Renaissance der Semiempirik: In jüngerer Zeit tragen semiempirische Methoden wieder vermehrt dazu bei, die Vorhersagekraft quantenchemischer Simulationen zu steigern. Dichtefunktionaltheorie: Auf der Suche nach einem universellen Austauschkorrelationsfunktional sind mathematisch flexible Ansätze für Hybridfunktionale besonders vielversprechend, etwa lokale Hybridfunktionale oder Hybridfunktionale mit lokaler Reichweitenseparierung.
Hybriddichtefunktionale – die nächste Generation/Trendbericht Theoretische Chemie 2024 (3/3)
Authors: Bahmann Hilke
Published: October 2024

Zeitabhängige Simulationen der Elektronendynamik gewinnen für optische Materialien und lichtinduzierte Photoreaktionen an Gewicht. Verständliche visuelle Ergebnisdarstellungen und moderne effiziente Rechenverfahren helfen dabei, die Technik zu verbreiten. Renaissance der Semiempirik: In jüngerer Zeit tragen semiempirische Methoden wieder vermehrt dazu bei, die Vorhersagekraft quantenchemischer Simulationen zu steigern. Dichtefunktionaltheorie: Auf der Suche nach einem universellen Austauschkorrelationsfunktional sind mathematisch flexible Ansätze für Hybridfunktionale besonders vielversprechend, etwa lokale Hybridfunktionale oder Hybridfunktionale mit lokaler Reichweitenseparierung.
Altes Bitumen chemisch verjüngen
Authors: Neubauer Uta
Published: October 2024

Der Straßenbau soll nachhaltiger werden. Ein Gespräch mit Hinrich Grothe von der Technischen Universität Wien über Recyclingasphalt, die Alterung von Bitumen und pflanzliche Verjüngungsmittel.
Ethik in der Chemie
Authors: Weinig Hans‐Georg
Published: October 2024

Ein Onlinesymposium war der Startpunkt, um in der GDCh eine AG „Ethik in der Chemie“ zu etablieren. Alle Interessierten sind eingeladen sich zu engagieren.
Dorsal fin height is not an effective tool to distinguish hatchery and wild steelhead in the field
Authors: Losee James P. , Claiborne Andrew , Allan Rob , Seamons Todd , Sutton Kathryn T. , Witkop Erin
Published: October 2024

Objective

To maximize harvest of hatchery steelhead Oncorhynchus mykiss and Pacific salmon Oncorhynchus spp. while reducing impacts to wild conspecifics, fishery managers rely on the ability of anglers to distinguish between the two. Fin erosion, including dorsal fin erosion, is a common result of hatchery rearing of juvenile salmonids. Since the 1980s, managers in the Pacific Northwest have utilized adult steelhead dorsal fin height as a regulatory control rule, requiring anglers to release steelhead with dorsal fins over a height threshold. This approach assumes that all or most hatchery fish have shorter dorsal fins than their wild counterparts. This study was designed to test this assumption.

Methods

We compared steelhead origin (hatchery or wild) determined using scale analysis and adipose fin clipping (hatchery n = 127, wild n = 71) with origin estimated using dorsal fin height.

Result

Overall, a static dorsal fin height threshold (2.25 in, 5.72 cm) correctly identified 90% of hatchery-origin steelhead but misidentified nearly half (44%) of wild fish as hatchery. Dorsal fin height of known hatchery fish correlated with fish length, indicating a weakness of using a static dorsal height threshold as a management tool. The accuracy of distinguishing wild fish improved, but only marginally (56–76%), using a classification model where dorsal fin height of known origin fish from this study was a continuous predictor of origin. In comparison, adipose fin status correctly identified 97% of unmarked fish as wild.

Conclusion

The low accuracy of the classification model and static dorsal fin height thresholds at distinguishing hatchery and wild steelhead due to a strong correlation between dorsal fin height and fork length and the high fork length variability of hatchery origin fish. Given the low cost and accuracy of adipose fin clipping and the potentially high conservation risk associated with misidentification, we recommend discontinuing the use of dorsal fin height as a harvest control rule for steelhead.
Fabrication of a Polyglycolic Acid Porous Microneedle Array Patch Using the Nonsolvent Induced Phase Separation Method for Body Fluid Extraction
Authors: Jing Heyi , Park Jongho , Kim Beomjoon
Published: October 2024

Traditional blood sampling is essential for early diagnosis and subsequent analysis, but the methods using hypodermic needles are painful and burdensome. Recently, a minimally invasive approach utilizing porous microneedles has been developed and various porous microneedle array patches (MAPs) composed of biodegradable polymers have been investigated. To address issues about low mechanical strength and liquid absorption with porous MAPs, we used polyglycolic acid (PGA) as it is a biodegradable and hydrophilic polymer with high mechanical properties. In this study, we established a nonsolvent‐induced phase separation (NIPS) method for the fabrication of PGA porous MAPs, as the porous MAPs can be fabricated by simply immersing the molds injected with PGA‐hexafluoro‐2‐propanol (HFIP) solution in nonsolvents. We achieved the maximum liquid absorption rate of 16 ± 8.2 × 10−2 µL/min per one microneedle using the PGA porous MAPs fabricated by using ethanol as nonsolvent and PGA concentration of 10% (w/w). Our study provides a comprehensive understanding of porous MAPs fabricated using PGA material as well as its characteristics regarding the structural and mechanical properties of PGA MAPs, with potential as a diagnostic device to substitute conventional hypodermic needles for interstitial fluid (ISF) sampling and diagnosis.
The impact of Secure Communities on the labor market outcomes of immigrant women
Authors: Bansak Cynthia , Pearlman Sarah , Sparber Chad
Published: October 2024

The United States deported nearly 400,000 unauthorized immigrants under the Secure Communities (SC) interior immigration enforcement program between 2008 and 2014. This paper uses variation in the intensity of deportations across immigrants’ country of origin and city of residence to assess the labor market consequences of SC on foreign‐born women. We find no effect on the total number of employed immigrant women, but both annual wages and the number of hours worked fell. Moreover, SC induced a shift toward occupations with lower average pay and education requirements, higher exposure to hazards, and less contact with others. This is consistent with a chilling effect in labor markets such that some foreign‐born women were willing to sacrifice better pay and working environments for the ability to avoid detection.
Improving sense of school belonging in Indian schools: Student perspectives
Authors: Juliyabadu Gunathilake Thilanka , Allen Kelly‐Ann , Berger Emily , May Fiona , Grove Christine , Patlamazoglou Lefteris , Wurf Gerald , Gamble Nicholas , Warton William , Reupert Andrea
Published: October 2024

Students’ sense of school belonging is associated with healthier psychological functioning and improved academic outcomes. Currently, most research on school belonging has been conducted in the United States, United Kingdom, Australia, and New Zealand, resulting in school belonging practices and interventions largely biased towards Western school systems and cultures. This study sought to identify Indian students' perceptions of teacher‐level and school‐level factors that could contribute to a sense of school belonging. Open‐ended survey questions were used to qualitatively explore how teacher‐ and school‐level practices contributed to the school belonging of 93 Indian students aged 12–19. Data analysis followed manifest content analysis, identifying themes within teacher‐level and school‐level domains of enquiry. Results reveal valuable insights into factors influencing school belonging from the students’ perspective. These findings can inform the development of targeted interventions to support Indian students in rebuilding their sense of school belonging, improving their wellbeing, and enhancing their academic success. The research also contributes to a broader understanding of school belonging practices and their cultural sensitivity, benefiting educators, policymakers, and researchers worldwide.
A microwave temperature sounder (MWTS)–microwave humidity sounder fusion cloud detection method for land data from the FengYun‐3D MWTS and its impact on error estimation
Authors: Mao Jiali , Qin Zhengkun , Li Juan
Published: October 2024

The presence of clouds greatly disrupting the estimation of observation errors in satellite data. Therefore, cloud detection is a necessary step in satellite radiance data assimilation, not only to identify clear sky data and cloudy data, but also, more importantly, to accurately specify observation errors in different scenarios during all‐sky data assimilation. However, the assimilation of the microwave temperature sounder‐2 (MWTS‐2) onboard the FengYun‐3D satellite has been restricted by the low accuracy of cloud detection due to the absence of low‐frequency channels, especially for land areas where complex underlying surface brings more difficulties to the identification of cloudy data. The microwave humidity sounder‐2 (MWHS‐2), which is designed for water vapor sounding, is usually equipped on the same satellite as MWTS‐2. The sensitivity of the MWHS‐2 to water vapor enables it to provide more accurate information about clouds over land. Based on the advantage of the two instruments measuring on the same platform, an effective cloud detection method for MWTS‐2 data over land is established in this study after collocating the data of the MWTS‐2 and MWHS‐2. The results show that the new method achieves a cloud detection rate exceeding 75%, with a significantly reduced false detection rate compared with the traditional scattering index method, which is decreased from 40% to approximately 26%. More importantly, in non‐precipitating cloud regions, the cloud index built by the new method has a significant linear correlation with the difference between observed and simulated brightness temperatures (OMB) of MWTS‐2 data. Statistical analysis reveals that the cloud index can be used to effectively rectify the systematic OMB bias caused by those clouds in non‐precipitation cloud areas, which demonstrates the promising application of this cloud index in all‐sky MWTS‐2 data assimilation over land.
Extension of all‐sky radiance assimilation to hyperspectral infrared sounders
Authors: Okamoto Kozo , Ishibashi Toshiyuki , Okabe Izumi , Shimizu Hiroyuki
Published: October 2024

This study accomplished the all‐sky infrared (IR) radiance assimilation of the hyperspectral IR sounders of the IR atmospheric sounding interferometer in the Japan Meteorological Agency's global system. Essential assimilation procedures, including cloud‐dependent quality control, bias correction, and observation‐error modeling, were directly adapted from the all‐sky assimilation of geostationary satellite imagers in our previous study, without any sophisticated modifications. Data assimilation experiments conducted in different seasons demonstrated that, compared with clear‐sky radiance assimilation, the all‐sky radiance assimilation of three channels sensitive to mid and upper tropospheric water vapor yielded significant forecast improvements in not only humidity but also temperature, wind, and geopotential height. These improvements originated from more than twofold increments in the number of globally assimilated observations under the all‐sky approach and better observation coverages. Increasing the number of assimilated channels to nine further amplified these improvements. The incorporation of an upper tropospheric channel mitigated upper tropospheric humidity biases that were originally exacerbated during three‐channel assimilation. These results underscore the broad applicability of the all‐sky assimilation approach to various IR instruments.
A novel analytical strategy based on gas chromatography‐Orbitrap high‐resolution mass spectrometry combined with solid‐phase extraction for the monitoring of stanozolol misuse in human urine
Authors: Zheng Siying , Ji Ziyi , Ge Yuqi , Fang Xian , Liu Mengpan , Sun Haoyi , Deng Xiaojun , Liao Lei
Published: October 2024

Rationale

Stanozolol, an anabolic androgenic steroid listed in Part S1 of the World Anti‐Doping Agency Prohibited List, exhibits a low response and significant matrix interference in urine samples when using liquid–liquid extraction–gas chromatography–mass spectrometry (GC–MS). Enhancing sample preparation techniques remains essential for the effective detection of stanozolol and its metabolites.

Methods

A method for determining stanozolol and its metabolites (3′‐OH‐stanozolol, 4β‐OH‐stanozolol, and 16β‐OH‐stanozolol) in human urine was developed and validated using GC‐Orbitrap high‐resolution MS combined with optimized mixed‐mode solid‐phase extraction (SPE). This method was applied to urine samples from two volunteers who orally administered a single dose of stanozolol, with samples collected over a 30‐day period post‐administration.

Results

The optimized mixed‐mode SPE method reduced matrix interference and achieved satisfactory extraction efficiency and high sensitivity, enabling confident identification of all targets in human urine. Validation showed extraction recovery of 74% to 81% and limits of detection from 0.1 to 0.25 ng mL−1. The method was successfully applied to detect urinary excretion profiles of stanozolol and its metabolites in positive volunteer samples.

Conclusion

This study presents a novel detection protocol for stanozolol and its metabolites, enhancing the monitoring of stanozolol abuse and contributing to the integrity of sports competitions. This protocol offers a robust tool for anti‐doping laboratories, aiding in the accurate detection of stanozolol misuse and supporting the enforcement of fair play in athletics.
New Predictor‐Based Anti‐Disturbance Control for Discrete‐Time Systems With Input Delay Subject to Time‐Varying Uncertainties
Authors: Hao Shoulin , Du Ruitao , Liu Tao , Paszke Wojciech
Published: October 2024

In this article, a new predictor‐based anti‐disturbance control scheme is proposed for discrete‐time systems with input delay subject to time‐varying uncertainties, by only using the system output measurement. A high‐order extended state observer is firstly constructed to simultaneously estimate the system state, unknown disturbance and its high‐order difference with specification. Two alternative designs of the system state and disturbance predictors are then presented to construct an advanced anti‐disturbance control scheme. The disturbance attenuation performance of the resulting closed‐loop system is quantitatively analyzed. Moreover, a matrix‐inequality‐based sufficient condition is established to evaluate robust stability of the closed‐loop system under time‐varying uncertainties. Finally, a benchmark example is adopted to demonstrate the effectiveness and advantages of the proposed control schemes over the existing methods.
Evaluating the Efficiency of a Fishway Installed Near a High, Artificially Created Waterfall
Authors: Gelder Justine , Benitez Jean‐Philippe , Colson Dylan , Sonny Damien , Ovidio Michaël
Published: October 2024

The installation of fishways is the most common method to restore connectivity and allow fish to carry out their life cycle. However, the performance and efficiency of fishways are still highly variable, particularly for freshwater potamodromous species. We aimed to determine the passage efficiency of a fishway installed in 2021 downstream of the Coo waterfall in Belgium to allow upstream migration and crossing of the 11.8 m height. We double‐marked 38 individuals (RFID tag and radio transmitter) belonging to three species (Barbus barbus, Salmo trutta and Thymallus thymallus) from upstream and then released them 1.2 km downstream of the waterfall. A total of five automatic detection antennas were installed downstream of the waterfall and within the fishway, and the individuals were tracked with manual radio telemetry. We used several behavioural metrics to assess efficiency and attractiveness. The results indicate a lack of attractiveness of the fishway (overall rate of attraction < 25%). There was a higher detections at the waterfall (26 detections) than at the restitution channel (12 detections), where the entrance of the fishway was located. For individuals that reached the fishway entrance, the fishway efficiency was 12.5% for barbel and 6.3% for trout, with an average fishway entrance searching delay of 25 days for barbel. The lack of attractiveness led to numerous back‐and‐forth movements by individuals to find the entrance and the search for a substitute spawning habitat downstream. Our results indicate the need to improve the attractiveness of the fishway, in particular by improving the attraction flow.
Current research trends in child poverty and psychological resilience research: A bibliometric analysis approach
Authors: Karabacak Çelik Aynur
Published: October 2024

The first of the sustainable development goals is to end poverty by 2030. Although many individual, social, and psychological resources have been proposed to reduce poverty, little is known about psychological resilience factors and related variables in reducing it. While the literature on childhood poverty and psychological resilience indicates that there was a relationship between these variables, it also draws attention to the fact that a growing interest in the need to consider psychological factors in reducing child poverty. Contextually, this study is bibliometric research that aims to reveal the current research trends about child poverty and psychological resilience. The researcher reviewed the Web of Science to highlight current trends in child poverty and resilience research and found 1065 relevant documents that met the inclusion criteria. The research used co‐occurrence, citation, and bibliographic coupling techniques from the bibliometric analysis type. Research results showed that poverty, resilience, children, protective factors, youth, parenting, COVID‐19, stress, and mental health were the nine significant clusters where the poverty and resilience keywords were gathered (items = 120, links = 988, total link strength = 1646). The United States had the most publications and was the most collaborative country. The most associated SDG target was good health and well‐being. Research trends underline that the five most studied keywords were resilience, poverty, children, health, and risk. Thematic map results indicated that socioeconomic status, childhood, and adjustment topics were important, well‐developed, and structuring themes, while resilience, poverty, and children topics were essential themes but still needed to be well‐developed. The research findings highlight the importance of resiliency factors that can potentially reduce child poverty. The results also give researchers essential insights into socioeconomic, mental, psychological, and environmental factors that they can use in their intervention practices holistically in reducing child poverty.
The link between gender inequality, financial development, and economic growth in Nigeria: A spectral Granger causality approach
Authors: Akinwande Toluwalope Seyi , Turuc Fatma , Seraj Mehdi , Ozdeser Huseyin
Published: October 2024

The male and female genders have crucial roles to play in economic advancement. Thus, the main reason for this research is to pinpoint the causal link between gender inequality (GPIN), financial development (FIDX), inflation (INFL), and economic growth (GDPC) in Nigeria from the year 1980–2020 utilizing the Spectral Granger and Pairwise Granger causality methods and “Residual Augmented Least Square (RALS) cointegration. The RALS result show confirms the stationarity properties of the variables. The Spectral Granger causality outcomes show that GPIN granger causes GDPC in the long, medium, and short–term. In addition, the FIDX granger causes GDPC in the long and short–term, while the medium–term impact is insignificant. For INFL, causality only occurs in the long–term. On the other hand, the Pairwise Granger causality results show that GPIN and FIDX granger cause GDPC, while INFL is insignificant. Therefore, if GPIN and FIDX can predict economic expansion, policymakers need to create policies that can reduce diverse forms of inequalities, promote financial development, and reduce inflation to the barest minimum.
Experimental study on the seismic behavior of a novel type of precast column‐steel beam connection with grouted corrugated metallic duct
Authors: Qi Ligang , Ma Minglei , Chen Yueshi , Liao Xiandong , Hua Jingjing , Liu Yanan , Zhang Shiqian , Li Chang , Lu Lei
Published: October 2024

Considering the complicated joint details and installation difficulties of beam‐column joints, a novel type of precast joint that utilizes grouted corrugated metallic ducts was proposed. Four full‐scale specimens were prepared and subjected to the low cyclic loading test, including two precast specimens (interior beam‐column joint and exterior beam‐column joint) and two cast‐in‐place specimens for comparison. The seismic behavior of the joint was evaluated based on failure modes, hysteretic behaviors, ductility, bearing capacity, and energy dissipation. From the test results, all specimens experienced bending failures at the beam end, which kept the plastic hinge away from the joint core area. The precast assembly joints showed excellent seismic behavior, especially in terms of the bearing capacity, ductility, and energy dissipation capacity, which are better than the cast‐in‐place ones. The bearing capacity measured for each specimen was greater than the design standard, indicating that the joints are reasonably designed, and the members are safe and reliable. Parametric analysis was also conducted by finite element modeling and design advice was given accordingly.
Removal of Fe2+ in coastal aquaculture source water by manganese ores: Batch experiments and breakthrough curve modeling
Authors: Wang Jianhua , Feng Wenchao , Lu Jian , Wu Jun , Cao Wenxin , Zhang Jianbai , Zhang Cui , Hu Bing , Li Wensheng
Published: October 2024

Excessive Fe2+ in coastal aquaculture source water will seriously affect the aquaculture development. This study used manganese sand to investigate the removal potential and mechanism of Fe2+ in coastal aquaculture source water by column experiments. The pseudo‐first‐order kinetic model could better describe Fe2+ removal process with R2 in the range of 0.9451–0.9911. More than 99.7% of Fe2+ could be removed within 120 min while the removal rate (k) was positively affected by low initial concentration of Fe2+, high temperature, and low pH. Logistic growth (S‐shaped growth) model could better fit the concentration variation of Fe2+ in the effluent of the column (R2>0.99). The Fe2 breakthrough curve could be fitted by Bohart‐Adams, Yoon‐Nelson, and Thomas models (R2>0.95). Smooth slices with irregular shapes existed on the surface of manganese sand after the reaction while Fe content increased significantly on the surface of manganese sand after the column experiment. Moreover, FeO (OH) was mainly formed on the surface of manganese sand after the reaction.

Practitioner Points

Fe2+ in coastal aquaculture source water could be removed by manganese ores.

The pseudo‐first‐order kinetic model better described the Fe2+ removal process.

FeO (OH) was mainly formed on the surface of manganese sand after the reaction.
Recent Advances in Cyclodextrin‐Based Nanoscale Drug Delivery Systems
Authors: Topuz Fuat , Uyar Tamer
Published: October 2024

Cyclodextrins (CDs) belong to a class of cyclic oligosaccharides characterized by their toroidal shape consisting of glucose units linked via α‐1,4‐glycosidic bonds. This distinctive toroidal shape exhibits a dual nature, comprising a hydrophobic interior and a hydrophilic exterior, making CDs highly versatile in various pharmaceutical products. They serve multiple roles: they act as solubilizers, stabilizers, controlled release promoters, enhancers of drug bioavailability, and effective means of masking undesirable tastes and odors. Taking advantage of these inherent benefits, CDs have been integrated into numerous nanoscale drug delivery systems. The resulting nanomaterials exploit the exceptional properties of CDs, including their ability to solubilize hydrophobic drugs for substantial drug loading, engage in supramolecular complexation for engineered nanomaterials, increase bioavailability for improved therapeutic efficacy, stabilize labile drugs, and exhibit biocompatibility and versatility. This paper compiles recent studies on CD functional nanoscale drug delivery platforms. First, we described the physicochemical and toxicological aspects of CDs, CD/drug inclusion complexation, and their impact on improving drug bioavailability. We then summarized applications for CD‐functional nano delivery systems based on polymeric, hybrid, lipid‐based nanoparticles, and CD‐based nanofibers. Particular interest was in the targeted applications and the function of the CD molecules used. In most applications, CD molecules were used for drug solubilization and loading, while in some studies, CD molecules were employed for supramolecular complexation to construct nanoscale drug delivery systems. Finally, the review concludes with a thoughtful consideration of the current challenges and outlook.
Hydrological streamflow modeling at the inlet of Gilgel Gibe III dam of Ethiopia using soil and water assessment tool
Authors: Andiye Yohannes Mehari , Lohani Tarun Kumar
Published: October 2024

Comprehensive approach is a pre‐requisite to improve the estimation of variability in streamflow data for designing water supply systems, generating hydropower, determining environmental flows, allocating water, and conducting pollution studies that need a comprehensive approach. There is a need to model streamflow data to develop effective water policy plans when sufficient data are unavailable. This study aims at assessing the accuracy and applicability of the Soil and Water Assessment Tool (SWAT) model in predicting streamflow at the inlet of the Gilgel Gibe III dam watershed in Ethiopia. Historical meteorological data from nine available stations between 1987 and 2017 were used to predict the streamflow. The SWAT model was calibrated and validated for two different time periods (1997–1999 and 2003–2004) using SWATCUP program and SUFI‐2 technique. Calibration and validation were based on monthly observed discharges at the Abelti and Gojeb stations. The results showed acceptable values of R2, Nash–Sutcliffe modeling efficiency (NSE), and percent bias (PBIAS). At the Abelti station and Gojeb station, the calibration and validation results were 0.82, 0.79, and −10.1%; 0.88, 0.84, and −14.4%; and 0.86, 0.79, and 14.1% for calibration and 0.88, 0.8, and 11.1% for validation, respectively. The prediction uncertainty of 95% was consistent with the observed discharge. The mean annual runoff was 440.08 m3/s, demonstrating the model's effectiveness in simulating streamflow at the dam's inlet. The calibrated and validated model can be used to study the effects of climate and land use changes; analyze water quality and sediment yield; and inform future water policy plans, dam construction planning, and flood disaster risk management.
Defining the Project's Lifecycle Stages and Their Related Decision-Making Activities
Authors: Bajare Diana , Zsembinszki Gabriel , Frazão Pedroso Pedro , Frazão Pedroso Marco , Kripa Dorina , Nano Xhesila , Tambovceva Tatjana , Borg Ruben Paul
Published: October 2024

Large infrastructure projects are significant for societal and economic development, involving different types of infrastructure and many stakeholders. This chapter outlines the stages of the project life cycle, emphasizing the importance of stakeholder engagement at all stages for successful project outcomes. The stages include initiation, planning, execution, monitoring and control, and closure, each with defined objectives, outcomes, and decision-making activities. Due to the complexity of infrastructure projects, effective stakeholder relationship management is essential. The chapter emphasizes the need for continuous communication, strategic engagement, and proactive risk management to align project objectives with stakeholder interests. Case studies and literature reviews show how stakeholder participation improves project performance, sustainability, and societal impact. The findings highlight the importance of integrating stakeholder perspectives to achieve effective project management and meet performance indicators, ultimately leading to successful project implementation and long-term societal benefits. In order to characterize the role of stakeholders, mutual relations and obstacles to the implementation of the circular economy outside the European Union, the case of Albania, which will soon become a potential member state of the European Union, is analyzed. The problems with the involvement of interested parties in the implementation of the infrastructure project and the benefits and obstacles are similar for both the member state of the European Union and the countries that are just about to become one.
Does China–Africa Economic Partnership Following the Right Trajectory?
Authors: Zerihun Mulatu F.
Published: October 2024

Although China was never a colonizing power, its economic relations with Africa can be traced to antiquity. However, meaningful economic partnership between China and Africa is a recent phenomenon. After a decade and more trade engagement with China, many African countries have been claiming that there is economic growth momentum induced in their respective economies. Despite the progress achieved in the past decades, cooperation between China and Africa also faces numerous challenges ahead. Key problems associated with China–African partnership are neither fully addressed nor satisfactorily contextualized in the current debate regarding China and Africa. There is optimism about the rise of China and India, and other south–south partners of Africa hoping that such a partnership offers a great chance to Africa in claiming twenty-first century. Here it should be underlined that if China follows the same old western principles towards Africa, the new economic partnership with China may end up with the usual win-lose scenario. However, such an extreme scenario may not happen in the twenty-first century when Africa has its own prominent continental institutions like AU, ECA, NEPAD and other local and international independent academic and research institutions that can alert the continent of such development. This study analyses the trade balance condition of the top 10 deficit African countries with China (Ethiopia, Kenya, Togo, Malawi, Morocco, Benin, Algeria, Liberia, Egypt and Nigeria) and calls for careful structural adjustments.
$$ \mathcal{CP} $$-sensitive simplified template cross-sections for $$ t\overline{t}H $$
Authors: Bahl Henning , Carnelli Alberto , Déliot Frédéric , Fuchs Elina , Kotsokechagia Anastasia , Marsault Tanguy Lucas , Menen Marco , Schoeffel Laurent , Saimpert Matthias
Published: October 2024

Abstract

The $$ \mathcal{CP} $$
CP
structure of the Higgs boson is a fundamental property which has not yet been constrained with high precision. $$ \mathcal{CP} $$
CP
violation in the Yukawa coupling between the Higgs boson and top quark pair can be probed directly at the Large Hadron Collider by measuring top-quark-associated Higgs production. Multivariate analysis techniques commonly developed so far by the experiments are designed for a specific signal model and, therefore, complicate reinterpretations and statistical combinations. With this motivation in mind, we propose a $$ \mathcal{CP} $$
CP
-sensitive extension of the simplified template cross-section (STXS) framework. Considering multiple Higgs decay channels, we perform an in-depth comparison of $$ \mathcal{CP} $$
CP
-sensitive observables and combinations thereof. Our resulting proposal is to extend the existing binning in the transverse momentum of the Higgs boson pT,H by either the pseudorapidity difference of the two top-quarks $$ \Delta {\eta}_{t\overline{t}} $$
∆

η

t

t
¯

, or a variable that is based on the top quark momenta, namely b2 or the Collins-Soper angle |cosθ∗|. We demonstrate that this variable selection provides close to optimal sensitivity to the $$ \mathcal{CP} $$
CP
mixture in the top Yukawa coupling for an integrated luminosity of 300 fb−1, by comparing it to the results of a multivariate analysis. Our results also suggest a benefit of the two-dimensional STXS extension at 3000 fb−1.
One-point thermal conformal blocks from four-point conformal integrals
Authors: Alkalaev Konstantin , Mandrygin Semyon
Published: October 2024

Abstract

We develop the thermal shadow formalism to study the conformal blocks decomposition in D-dimensional conformal field theory on $$ {\mathbbm{S}}_{\beta}^1\times {\mathbbm{S}}^{D-1} $$

S
β
1

×

S

D
−
1

, where the temperature is T = β−1. It is demonstrated that both the 1-point thermal (T ≠ 0) conformal blocks and the 4-point plane (T = 0) conformal blocks are defined by the same 4-point conformal integral. It is shown that up to power prefactors the 1-point thermal conformal block is given by the fourth Appell function.
Sport- und Bewegungstherapie bei Burn-out und Fatigue – eine narrative Übersichtsarbeit
Authors: Gerland Lars , Baumann Freerk Theeagnus
Published: October 2024

Burn-out und Fatigue weisen in ihren Symptomausprägungen Schnittmengen auf. Der gemeinsame Nenner ist Erschöpfung. Körperliche Aktivität konnte teils als risikomindernder Faktor für die Entstehung bzw. die Ausprägung der Symptome nachgewiesen werden. Auch in der Akutphase, der Rehabilitation und Nachsorge von Burn-out sowie bei Erkrankungen und deren Behandlungen, die mit dem Auftreten von Fatigue assoziiert werden, gibt es Belege für einen Effekt von körperlicher Aktivität.

In der Burn-out-Forschung gilt physische Aktivität als risikomindernder Faktor und Coping-Strategie, konkrete Bewegungsempfehlungen in Bezug auf Symptomausprägungen existieren jedoch nicht. Im Bereich der Müdigkeit/Fatigue ist das Gesamtbild uneinheitlich: Für einzelne Krankheitsbilder gibt es bereits zielgerichtete Empfehlungen für die Bewegungstherapie im multimodalen Ansatz. So gibt es hohe Evidenzen für den Einsatz von angemessen dosierter körperlicher Aktivität bei Krebspatient:innen, die unter tumorassoziierter Fatigue (CrF) leiden, in der adjuvanten Therapie und Nachsorge. Andere mit dem Auftreten von Fatigue assoziierte Erkrankungen, beispielsweise Long und Post-Covid, sind diesbezüglich noch nicht ausreichend erforscht, um klare Aussagen zu einer Dosis-Wirkungs-Beziehung zu machen.

Diese Arbeit soll einen Überblick über den Stand der Bewegungsforschung bei Burn-out und Fatigue geben und so einerseits Therapieempfehlungen für die Behandelnden und die Patient:innen aussprechen, andererseits die Evidenzlage in denjenigen Teilbereichen beleuchten, in denen es (noch) keine allgemeinen und individualisierten Bewegungsempfehlungen gibt.
The Current Phyto-Scape and Foodplants of Holley Shelter, KwaZulu-Natal (South Africa) and Its Potential for Past Foragers
Authors: Lombard Marlize , Bader Gregor D. , Will Manuel
Published: October 2024

Current phyto-scapes (plant populations in their geo-spatial context) are not exact replicas of past foraging potential, yet they provide valuable data about the carrying capacity or potential of a foraging-scape. Knowledge about contemporary micro-ecologies and ethno-historical plant use can inform on behavioral aspects, should such plants be found in archaeological deposits. It is in this context that we explore existing information (data and literature) to establish the current vegetation types and micro-ecologies around Holley Shelter, KwaZulu-Natal, South Africa, that contains Middle and Later Stone Age occupations. We present the first plant species inventory consisting of > 1500 taxa growing approximately a day’s foraging distance from the site, compiled from records provided by the South African National Biodiversity Institute and other sources. From this list, we generated separate checklists for foodplants (n = 450) and plants that have other uses (n = 337), to gain insight into the site’s current phyto-fitness potential. The resulting database is intended as a modern proxy for future work on the site’s archaeo-botany and palaeo-climatic reconstructions. The data is also applicable to other sites on the Savanna/Grassland Biomes of southern Africa with records of the same species. Here we use the foodplant checklist and what is known about the edible plant parts, their seasonality and the distribution of some species to speculate about land-use patterns. These hypotheses can be tested for the past with future archaeo-botanical work. We demonstrate that, compared to archaeological sites in the Eastern and Western Cape for which comparable data exist, Holley Shelter is rich in foodplants, and especially so in plant foods that are known to buffer against famine during the periodical droughts of inland South Africa.
Adaptive quarklet tree approximation
Authors: Dahlke Stephan , Hovemann Marc , Raasch Thorsten , Vogel Dorian
Published: October 2024

This paper is concerned with near-optimal approximation of a given univariate function with elements of a polynomially enriched wavelet frame, a so-called quarklet frame. Inspired by hp-approximation techniques of Binev, we use the underlying tree structure of the frame elements to derive an adaptive algorithm that, under standard assumptions concerning the local errors, can be used to create approximations with an error close to the best tree approximation error for a given cardinality. We support our findings by numerical experiments demonstrating that this approach can be used to achieve inverse-exponential convergence rates.
Discoveries or doubts: a qualitative study of the transformative potential of portfolio meetings
Authors: McDonald Jenny , Heeneman Sylvia , Hu Wendy
Published: October 2024

To adapt to medical school, students need to change their approaches to learning and study. Transformative learning through critical reflection on disorienting learning experiences supports perspective change to direct new activity. We explored how portfolio meetings support changes in students’ perspectives towards learning and study during the transition to studying medicine. This qualitative mixed methods study explored changes in medical students’ perspectives before and after two portfolio meetings with a mentor during the first year of medicine. Adopting a constructionist approach, we analyzed interview transcripts and written reflections from a diverse sample of students using reflexive thematic analysis. The findings were integrated during analysis. Transformative learning theory was our interpretive lens. Our analysis revealed five themes. Two themes represented students’ initial apprehension about portfolio meetings: The Disclosure Dilemma and A Question of Priorities. The theme “Seeing the Big Picture” described new perspectives from reflection on learning while preparing for meetings. Clarity from Dialogue described changed perspectives to learning and study after meetings. In the theme Dialogue Disappointment, meetings perceived as unhelpful led to persisting doubts about the value of portfolio meetings. Transformative learning was evident when students described new insights into their learning leading to goal-setting and new study strategies. When initial meetings were helpful, doubts about portfolio meetings were dispelled, enhancing student engagement in future meetings. Not all meetings were transformative, highlighting the importance of student and mentor preparation and training. Further research is needed to determine whether early portfolio experiences shape later engagement in clinical contexts.