bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Research on multilateral collaboration strategies in agricultural seed quality assurance
Authors: Wang Yanmei , Chen Yusheng
Published: May 2024

Seeds, as the initial products in agricultural systems, play a pivotal role in ensuring quality, fundamental to national food security and sustainable agricultural development. This study introduces a concept integrating public governance and evolutionary game theory to construct a quadripartite evolutionary game model involving seed companies, certification agencies, farmers, and governmental departments. It considers the strategic choices of these stakeholders under varying economic motivations and market mechanisms, as well as the influence of external regulation and incentives on game strategies. The existence conditions for evolutionarily stable strategy combinations are determined using the Lyapunov first method, and MATLAB is employed for numerical simulation analysis to validate the game analysis under initial conditions. The simulation results reveal two potential equilibrium points corresponding to different strategic choices among stakeholders. The study finds that producing high-quality seeds and the refusal of certification agencies to engage in rent-seeking are crucial for ensuring seed quality. Additionally, the cost–benefit ratio of seed companies, the speculative cost of certification agencies, and the rights-protection cost of farmers are key determinants in the evolution of seed quality assurance strategies. This research also holds practical significance in enhancing seed quality assurance mechanisms and fostering sustainable development in agriculture.
A privacy-preserving publicly verifiable quantum random number generator
Authors: Islam Tanvirul , Banerji Anindya , Boon Chin Jia , Rui Wang , Reezwana Ayesha , Grieve James A. , Piera Rodrigo , Ling Alexander
Published: May 2024

Verifying the quality of a random number generator involves performing computationally intensive statistical tests on large data sets commonly in the range of gigabytes. Limitations on computing power can restrict an end-user’s ability to perform such verification. There are also random number-based applications where an honest user needs to publicly demonstrate that the random bits they are using pass the statistical tests without the bits being revealed. Here, we report the implementation of an entanglement-based protocol that allows a third party to publicly perform statistical tests without compromising the privacy of the random bits.
Damage prediction and improvement method based on cutting mode of circular empty hole
Authors: Qin Huifeng , Zhao Yan , Wang Hailong , Ge Lijie , Tong Xiao
Published: May 2024

Based on the theory of empty hole effect of cutting blasting, the Hopkinson effect and Saint–Venant principle are integrated to establish a two-dimensional calculation model of dynamic stress evolution of the holes wall, and then the dynamic fracture mechanism and damage distribution mode of the rock mass in the cutting area under the action of longitudinal waves are predicted. The results of the calculation and numerical simulation are verified by experiments, and the results show that: The time-varying stress function of the circular cavity wall conforms to the periodic dynamic evolution of the trigonometric function, and the theoretical calculation is consistent with the simulation results. Through the calculation of the round holes cut model and the square empty hole cut model, the change of the shape of the holes in the cut area changes the failure form of the surrounding rock mass. The circular empty hole wall is affected by the stress wave to produce "interval ring" destruction, and the effect of the reflected stretch wave is inhibited. The large range of rock mass in the square empty hole wall produces tensile and shear failure, and the rock mass collapses inward under the influence of the second stage stress. Among them, the empty space utilization rate of the square empty hole model is about 8.5 times that of the circular holes model. Vibration monitoring in the center of the cutting area shows that the vibration effect of the circular empty hole is larger than that of the square empty hole, and the proportion of rock breaking energy is lower.
Crowdsourcing with the drift diffusion model of decision making
Authors: Lalvani Shamal , Katsaggelos Aggelos
Published: May 2024

Crowdsourcing involves the use of annotated labels with unknown reliability to estimate ground truth labels in datasets. A common task in crowdsourcing involves estimating reliabilities of annotators (such as through the sensitivities and specificities of annotators in the binary label setting). In the literature, beta or dirichlet distributions are typically imposed as priors on annotator reliability. In this study, we investigated the use of a neuroscientifically validated model of decision making, known as the drift-diffusion model, as a prior on the annotator labeling process. Two experiments were conducted on synthetically generated data with non-linear (sinusoidal) decision boundaries. Variational inference was used to predict ground truth labels and annotator related parameters. Our method performed similarly to a state-of-the-art technique (SVGPCR) in prediction of crowdsourced data labels and prediction through a crowdsourced-generated Gaussian process classifier. By relying on a neuroscientifically validated model of decision making to model annotator behavior, our technique opens the avenue of predicting neuroscientific biomarkers of annotators, expanding the scope of what may be learnt about annotators in crowdsourcing tasks.
Prevalence of hepatitis B and C viruses among migrant workers in Qatar
Authors: Nasrallah Gheyath K. , Chemaitelly Hiam , Ismail Ahmed I. A. , Nizamuddin Parveen B. , Al-Sadeq Duaa W. , Shurrab Farah M. , Amanullah Fathima H. , Al-Hamad Tasneem H. , Mohammad Khadija N. , Alabdulmalek Maryam A. , Al Kahlout Reham A. , Al-Shaar Ibrahim , Elshaikh Manal A. , Abouassali Mazen N. , Karimeh Ibrahim W. , Ali Mutaz M. , Ayoub Houssein H. , Abdeen Sami , Abdelkarim Ashraf , Daraan Faisal , Ismail Ahmed Ibrahim Hashim Elhaj , Mostafa Nahid , Sahl Mohamed , Suliman Jinan , Tayar Elias , Kasem Hasan Ali , Agsalog Meynard J. A. , Akkarathodiyil Bassam K. , Alkhalaf Ayat A. , Alakshar Mohamed Morhaf M. H. , Al-Qahtani Abdulsalam Ali A. H. , Al-Shedifat Monther H. A. , Ansari Anas , Ataalla Ahmad Ali , Chougule Sandeep , Gopinathan Abhilash K. K. V. , Poolakundan Feroz J. , Ranbhise Sanjay U. , Saefan Saed M. A. , Thaivalappil Mohamed M. , Thoyalil Abubacker S. , Umar Inayath M. , Al Kuwari Einas , Coyle Peter , Jeremijenko Andrew , Kaleeckal Anvar Hassan , Abdul Rahim Hanan F. , Yassine Hadi M. , Al Thani Asmaa A. , Chaghoury Odette , Al Kuwari Mohamed Ghaith , Farag Elmoubasher , Bertollini Roberto , Al Romaihi Hamad Eid , Al Khal Abdullatif , Al-Thani Mohamed H. , Abu-Raddad Laith J.
Published: May 2024

Limited data exist on viral hepatitis among migrant populations. This study investigated the prevalence of current hepatitis B virus (HBV) infection and lifetime hepatitis C virus (HCV) infection among Qatar's migrant craft and manual workers (CMWs), constituting 60% of the country's population. Sera collected during a nationwide COVID-19 population-based cross-sectional survey on CMWs between July 26 and September 9, 2020, underwent testing for HBsAg and HCV antibodies. Reactive samples underwent confirmatory testing, and logistic regression analyses were employed to explore associations with HBV and HCV infections. Among 2528 specimens tested for HBV infection, 15 were reactive, with 8 subsequently confirmed positive. Three samples lacked sufficient sera for confirmatory testing but were included in the analysis through multiple imputations. Prevalence of current HBV infection was 0.4% (95% CI 0.2–0.7%). Educational attainment and occupation were significantly associated with current HBV infection. For HCV infection, out of 2607 specimens tested, 46 were reactive, and 23 were subsequently confirmed positive. Prevalence of lifetime HCV infection was 0.8% (95% CI 0.5–1.2%). Egyptians exhibited the highest prevalence at 6.5% (95% CI 3.1–13.1%), followed by Pakistanis at 3.1% (95% CI 1.1–8.0%). Nationality, geographic location, and occupation were significantly associated with lifetime HCV infection. HBV infection is relatively low among CMWs, while HCV infection falls within the intermediate range, both compared to global and regional levels.
Assessing the efficacy of the ovicidal fungus Mucor circinelloides in reducing coccidia parasitism in peacocks
Authors: Lozano João , Almeida Cristina , Vicente Eduardo , Sebastião Daniela , Palomero Antonio Miguel , Cazapal-Monteiro Cristiana , Arias María Sol , Oliveira Manuela , Carvalho Luís Madeira de , Paz-Silva Adolfo
Published: May 2024

The biological control of gastrointestinal (GI) parasites using predatory fungi has been recently proposed as an accurate and sustainable approach in birds. The current study aimed to assess for the first time the efficacy of using the native ovicidal fungus Mucor circinelloides (FMV-FR1) in reducing coccidia parasitism in peacocks. For this purpose, an in vivo trial was designed in the resident peacock collection (n = 58 birds) of the São Jorge Castle, at Lisbon, Portugal. These animals presented an initial severe infection by coccidia of the genus Eimeria (20106 ± 8034 oocysts per gram of feces, OPG), and thus received commercial feed enriched with a M. circinelloides suspension (1.01 × 108 spores/kg feed), thrice-weekly. Fresh feces were collected every 15 days to calculate the coccidia shedding, using the Mini-FLOTAC technique. The same bird flock served simultaneously as control (t0 days) and test groups (t15–t90 days). The average Eimeria sp. shedding in peacocks decreased up to 92% following fungal administrations, with significant reduction efficacies of 78% (p = 0.004) and 92% (p = 0.012) after 45 and 60 days, respectively. Results from this study suggest that the administration of M. circinelloides spores to birds is an accurate solution to reduce their coccidia parasitism.
Identification of DprE1 inhibitors for tuberculosis through integrated in-silico approaches
Authors: Dash Swagatika , Rathi Ekta , Kumar Avinash , Chawla Kiran , Kini Suvarna G.
Published: May 2024

Decaprenylphosphoryl-β-D-ribose-2′-epimerase (DprE1), a crucial enzyme in the process of arabinogalactan and lipoarabinomannan biosynthesis, has become the target of choice for anti-TB drug discovery in the recent past. The current study aims to find the potential DprE1 inhibitors through in-silico approaches. Here, we built the pharmacophore and 3D-QSAR model using the reported 40 azaindole derivatives of DprE1 inhibitors. The best pharmacophore hypothesis (ADRRR_1) was employed for the virtual screening of the chEMBL database. To identify prospective hits, molecules with good phase scores (> 2.000) were further evaluated by molecular docking studies for their ability to bind to the DprE1 enzyme (PDB: 4KW5). Based on their binding affinities (< − 9.0 kcal/mole), the best hits were subjected to the calculation of free-binding energies (Prime/MM-GBSA), pharmacokinetic, and druglikeness evaluations. The top 10 hits retrieved from these results were selected to predict their inhibitory activities via the developed 3D-QSAR model with a regression coefficient (R2) value of 0.9608 and predictive coefficient (Q2) value of 0.7313. The induced fit docking (IFD) studies and in-silico prediction of anti-TB sensitivity for these top 10 hits were also implemented. Molecular dynamics simulations (MDS) were performed for the top 5 hit molecules for 200 ns to check the stability of the hits with DprE1. Based on their conformational stability throughout the 200 ns simulation, hit 2 (chEMBL_SDF:357100) was identified as the best hit against DprE1 with an accepted safety profile. The MD results were also in accordance with the docking score, MM-GBSA value, and 3D-QSAR predicted activity. The hit 2 molecule, (N-(3-((2-(((1r,4r)-4-(dimethylamino)cyclohexyl)amino)-9-isopropyl-9H-purin-6-yl)amino)phenyl)acrylamide) could serve as a lead for the discovery of a novel DprE1 inhibiting anti-TB drug.
Effect of the surface coating of carbonyl iron particles on the dispersion stability of magnetorheological fluid
Authors: Chen Fang , Zhang Jie , Li Zhenggui , Yan Shengnan , Li Wangxu , Yan Zhaoqiang , Liu Xiaobing
Published: May 2024

The dispersion stability of carbonyl iron particle (CIP)-based magnetorheological fluid (MRF) is improved by CIP, which particle is etched with hydrochloric acid (HCl) to form porous structure with many hydroxyl groups and subsequently coated with silane coupling agents that have varying chain lengths. The microstructures, coating effect and magnetism of the CIPs were examined using the Scanning Electron Microscopy, Automatic Surface and Porosity Analyzer (BET), Fourier-Transform Infrared Spectroscopy, Thermogravimetric Analysis and Vibrating Sample Magnetometer. Furthermore, the rheological properties and dispersion stability of the MRFs were assessed using a Rotating Rheometer and Turbiscan-lab. The results revealed that the nanoporous structure appeared on the CIPs and the specific surface area increased remarkably after being etched by hydrochloric acid. Additionally, as the chain length of the silane coupling agent increases, the coated mass on the particles increases, the the density and the saturation magnetization of particles decreased, and the coated particles with different shell thicknesses were obtained; without a magnetic field, the viscosity of MRF prepared by coated particles increase slightly, due to the enhancement of special three-dimensional network structure; under a magnetic field, the viscosity of the MRF decreased distinctly; the sedimentation rate of MRF decreased from 58 to 3.5% after 100 days of sedimentation, and the migration distances of the MRFs were 22.4, 3.7, 2.4, and 0 mm, with particle sedimentation rates of 0.149, 0.019, 0.017, and 0 mm/h, respectively. The MRF with high dispersion stability was obtained, and the etching of CIP by HCl and the proper chain length of the coating of silane coupling agent were proved effective manners to improve the dispersion stability of MRF.
Topographic analysis of pancreatic cancer by TMA and digital spatial profiling reveals biological complexity with potential therapeutic implications
Authors: Bingham Victoria , Harewood Louise , McQuaid Stephen , Craig Stephanie G. , Revolta Julia F. , Kim Chang S. , Srivastava Shambhavi , Quezada-Marín Javier , Humphries Matthew P. , Salto-Tellez Manuel
Published: May 2024

Pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma (PDAC) remains one of the most lethal human malignancies. Tissue microarrays (TMA) are an established method of high throughput biomarker interrogation in tissues but may not capture histological features of cancer with potential biological relevance. Topographic TMAs (T-TMAs) representing pathophysiological hallmarks of cancer were constructed from representative, retrospective PDAC diagnostic material, including 72 individual core tissue samples. The T-TMA was interrogated with tissue hybridization-based experiments to confirm the accuracy of the topographic sampling, expression of pro-tumourigenic and immune mediators of cancer, totalling more than 750 individual biomarker analyses. A custom designed Next Generation Sequencing (NGS) panel and a spatial distribution-specific transcriptomic evaluation were also employed. The morphological choice of the pathophysiological hallmarks of cancer was confirmed by protein-specific expression. Quantitative analysis identified topography-specific patterns of expression in the IDO/TGF-β axis; with a heterogeneous relationship of inflammation and desmoplasia across hallmark areas and a general but variable protein and gene expression of c-MET. NGS results highlighted underlying genetic heterogeneity within samples, which may have a confounding influence on the expression of a particular biomarker. T-TMAs, integrated with quantitative biomarker digital scoring, are useful tools to identify hallmark specific expression of biomarkers in pancreatic cancer.
New insights into the effects of type and timing of childhood maltreatment on brain morphometry
Authors: Grauduszus Yasmin , Sicorello Maurizio , Demirakca Traute , von Schröder Claudius , Schmahl Christian , Ende Gabriele
Published: May 2024

Childhood maltreatment (CM) is known to influence brain development. To obtain a better understanding of related brain alterations, recent research has focused on the influence of the type and timing of CM. We aimed to investigate the association between type and timing of CM and local brain volume. Anatomical magnetic resonance images were collected from 93 participants (79 female/14 male) with a history of CM. CM history was assessed with the German Interview Version of the “Maltreatment and Abuse Chronology of Exposure” scale, “KERF-40 + ”. Random forest regressions were performed to assess the impact of CM characteristics on the volume of amygdala, hippocampus and anterior cingulate cortex (ACC). The volume of the left ACC was predicted by neglect at age 3 and 4 and abuse at age 16 in a model including both type and timing of CM. For the right ACC, overall CM severity and duration had the greatest impact on volumetric alterations. Our data point to an influence of CM timing on left ACC volume, which was most pronounced in early childhood and in adolescence. We were not able to replicate previously reported effects of maltreatment type and timing on amygdala and hippocampal volume.
Insights into coordination and ligand trends of lanthanide complexes from the Cambridge Structural Database
Authors: Li Shicheng , Jansone-Popova Santa , Jiang De-en
Published: May 2024

Understanding lanthanide coordination chemistry can help develop new ligands for more efficient separation of lanthanides for critical materials needs. The Cambridge Structural Database (CSD) contains tens of thousands of single crystal structures of lanthanide complexes that can serve as a training ground for both fundamental chemical insights and future machine learning and generative artificial intelligence models. This work aims to understand the currently available structures of lanthanide complexes in CSD by analyzing the coordination shell, donor types, and ligand types, from the perspective of rare-earth element (REE) separations. We obtain four sets of lanthanide complexes from CSD: Subset 1, all Ln-containing complexes (49472 structures); Subset 2, mononuclear Ln complexes (27858 structures); Subset 3, mononuclear Ln complexes without cyclopentadienyl ligands (Cp) (26156 structures); Subset 4, Ln complexes with at least one 1,10-phenanthroline (phen) or its derivative as a coordinating ligand (2226 structures). The subsequent analysis of lanthanide complexes in these subsets examines the trends in coordination numbers and first shell distances as well as identifies and characterizes the ligands and donor groups. In addition, examples of Ln-complexes with commercially available complexants and phen-based ligands are interrogated in detail. This systematic investigation lays the groundwork for future data-driven ligand designs for REE separations based on the structural insights into the lanthanide coordination chemistry.
Experimental investigation and simulation analysis of cast-steel joints under vertical pressure
Authors: Li Zhihao , Zhang Yizhong , Du Wenfeng , Zhu Liming
Published: May 2024

The joint made of cast steel is frequently utilized within a treelike column structure to ensure a smooth transition. It is of great significance in ensuring the overall structural safety, but currently, the mechanical property and bearing capacity of this type of joint cannot be fully understood. This study investigates the load characteristics of three-forked cast steel joints through concrete experiments, finite element analysis, and regression method formula derivation, filling the gap in mechanical properties and calculation formulas of forked cast steel joints. Initially, a comprehensive model of the cast-steel joint, sourced from a practical engineering, underwent vertical load testing. Detailed scrutiny of stress distribution and vertical displacement of the tested joint was conducted based on the experimental outcomes. Subsequently, a finite element model of the tested joint was constructed using SolidWorks and subjected to analysis via ANSYS. The numerical findings were juxtaposed with experimental data and extrapolated to encompass other parametric scenarios. Ultimately, a regression analysis method was employed to derive a calculation formula for the load-carrying capacity of branch-bearing cast-steel joints. The regression analysis method can accurately obtain the load-bearing capacity calculation formula for tree-shaped joint models and can be extended to determine corresponding branch and main pipe dimensions, as well as the deviation angle between branches and the main pipe, under known load conditions. This improves design efficiency and accuracy. Comparative analysis reveals a substantial concurrence among experimental, finite element analysis, and formula-based predictive outcomes. The maximum error between experimental results and those obtained from finite element analysis is 9.02%. The maximum error between the results calculated using the load-bearing capacity formula derived from regression methods and those from finite element analysis is only 1.9%.
Effect of harvest timing and plant parts on the nutritional and chemical profile of five potential fodder plants found in eastern coast of United Arab Emirates
Authors: Tsombou François Mitterand , Saeed Sulaiman Jemei Al Dhanhani Aishah , Mirza Shaher Bano , Youssouf Belaid , Ridouane Fouad Lamghari
Published: May 2024

Selecting highly nutritive fodder plants in arid regions can be a key to improving the livestock productivity. This work explores the variation in nutritive value of the leaves, stem, and shoots of five potential fodder plants of the Emirates of Fujairah, Erucaria hispanica, Haplophyllum tuberculatum, Convolvulus virgatus, Teucrium stocksianum, and Cleome Ibrachycarpa. influenced by two weather conditions, winter and spring. The plant samples underwent mineral composition, proximate, phytochemical, and heavy metals and two-way ANOVA. Weather data were accessed from National Center of Meteorology (NCM). Our findings reveal significant influences of collection time and species on nutritive content. Shoots collected in March exhibited higher ash (6.167%), crude protein (11.9%), crude fiber (14.89%), dry matter (45.86%), and total digestive nutrients (TDS) (48.35%), with lower tannin (5.11%) compared to January. Conversely, January-collected shoots had greater total sugar content (1.28 g/100 g). Plant organs played a crucial role, with leaves surpassing stems in Mg, P, Ca, K, Na, Mn, Zn, and Ni. Leaves also showed higher crude protein (23.33%), dry matter (92.26%), total ash (4.8%), and TDS (87.58%) compared to stems, while stems exhibited elevated crude fiber (17.45%) and tannin (4.53%). There is a need to assess the bioactive compounds found in these fodder species for the enhancement its effective use and maximize browsing of these species.
Research on the mechanism and application of wedge cutting blasting with hole-inner delay
Authors: Cheng Bing , Wang Quan , Wang Haibo , Zong Qi , Gao Pengfei
Published: May 2024

To increase the efficiency of deep-hole blasting driving in mine rock tunnels, an innovative pattern of wedge cutting blasting with hole-inner delay was proposed. First, the blasting mechanisms of conventional and innovative wedge cutting patterns were theoretically investigated. The results showed that the resistance from large upper rock blocks and the clamping action from the surrounding rock were the major challenges of conventional cutting methods. For the innovative cutting pattern, under the conversion of the spatial distribution and release sequence of blasting energy, the first blasting of the upper charge can strengthen the breaking of the upper rock mass and create a new free surface, which provides favorable conditions for the delayed blasting of the bottom charge. Second, finite element models of two cutting patterns were established and solved, and the simulation results visually revealed the propagation of a stress wave. Critically, the stress strength in the upper cavity increased by 66–83% under the action of the upper charge, which was conducive to the breaking of the upper rock mass and the generation of a new free surface. Therefore, the rock mass in the bottom cavity can be readily broken and discharged. Ultimately, field applications were executed in a rock tunnel. Compared with a conventional cutting pattern, the proposed innovative cutting pattern can prominently increase the cycle advance and hole utilization and greatly reduce the unit consumption of explosives and detonators. This research confirms the usability of the innovative wedge cutting pattern with hole-inner delay in deep-hole blasting driving of rock tunnels.
Human somatosensory systems based on sensor-memory-integrated technology
Authors: Meng Yanfang , Cheng Guanggui
Published: May 2024

The artificial sensory systems incorporating sensing and memory functions into one system to achieve highly miniaturized and integrated devices/systems can have a far-reaching influence on many fields.
Exploring the unexpected electrochemical dynamics of lithium vanadyl phosphate electrodes in zinc battery systems
Authors: Putro Dimas Yunianto , Lestari Kiki Rezki , Alfaruqi Muhammad Hilmy , Alfaza M. Ghalib , Zulkifli  , Song Moonsu , Lee Seunggyeong , Sambandam Balaji , Mathew Vinod , Kim Jaekook
Published: May 2024

Our study explores the potential of β-LiVOPO4 as a high-energy and stable cathode material for zinc-ion batteries, achieving a high working voltage through comprehensive characterization techniques.
A mitochondria-specific NIR fluorescence probe for dual-detection of sulfur dioxide and viscosity in living cells and mice
Authors: Sun Xue-Yi , Zhang Xi , Gao Ke , Zhao Wen-Jing , Tian Yu-Ting , Liu Tao , Lu Zhong-Lin
Published: May 2024

A mitochondria-specific NIR fluorescence probe (CMBT) has been constructed for dual-detection of sulfur dioxide (SO2) and viscosity with high selectivity and sensitivity in living cells and mice.
An activated near-infrared mitochondrion-targetable fluorescent probe for rapid detection of NADH
Authors: Sun Yaxin , Mao Yanyun , Bai Tianwen , Ye Tianqing , Lin Yanfei , Wang Fang , Li Lei , Guo Longhua , Liu Haiying , Wang Jianbo
Published: May 2024

A novel near-infrared fluorescent probe with rapid response for detecting NADH was developed, providing an imaging method for the detection of endogenous and exogenous NADH in cells, and NADH fluctuations in type II diabetic and AD model cells.
Understanding the cascade heterojunction of CuPc/Bi-MOF for photoelectrochemical nitrate reduction
Authors: Bai Yajie , Fang Zhenyuan , Zhai Meiqi , Jiang Xianlei , Li Jianming , Bai Hongye , Fan Weiqiang
Published: May 2024

CuPc/Bi-MOF photoelectrocatalysts: a novel cascade-driven approach converting NO3− to NH3 that significantly improves activity/selectivity through synergistic mechanisms.
Synthesis of quinazolinone scaffolds via a zinc(ii)-stabilized amidyl radical-promoted deaminative approach
Authors: Manna Subarna , Sahoo Sangita , Rit Arnab
Published: May 2024

We report an exclusively ligand-based redox controlled deaminative coupling of o-amino amides/esters with nitriles utilizing a bench stable Zn-compound to produce diverse quinazolinones including synthons for therapeutically relevant compounds.
Chemoselective oxidation of aromatic aldehydes to carboxylic acids: potassium tert-butoxide as an anomalous source of oxygen
Authors: Lone Waseem I. , Rashid Auqib , Bhat Bilal A. , Rashid Showkat
Published: May 2024

A chemoselective strategy for the oxidation of aromatic and heteroaromatic aldehydes to corresponding carboxylic acids has been developed wherein potassium tert-butoxide acts as a source of oxygen.
Bifunctional oxygen reduction/evolution reaction electrocatalysts achieved by axial ligand modulation on two-dimensional porphyrin frameworks
Authors: Xu Tianze , Liu Tianyang , Jing Yu
Published: May 2024

A 2D porphyrin framework is designed via dimensional extension. Modification of the CN ligand is proved to be an effective strategy to tune the adsorption of the *OH intermediate, rendering 2D Co-TEP a promising bifunctional electrocatalyst for ORR/OER.
Correction: A topological path to the formation of a quasi-planar B70 boron cluster and its dianion
Authors: Saha Pinaki , Buendía Fernando , Van Duong Long , Nguyen Minh Tho
Published: May 2024

Correction for ‘A topological path to the formation of a quasi-planar B70 boron cluster and its dianion’ by Pinaki Saha et al., Phys. Chem. Chem. Phys., 2024, https://doi.org/10.1039/d2cp05452c.
Applications of low-valent compounds with heavy group-14 elements
Authors: Akhtar Ruksana , Gaurav Kumar , Khan Shabana
Published: May 2024

We have compiled the recent progress of low-valent group-14 compounds in catalysis, polymerization, small molecule activation, thin film deposition, photophysical properties, and medicinal properties.
The use of an in vitro fecal fermentation model to uncover the beneficial role of omega-3 and punicic acid in gut microbiota alterations induced by a Western diet
Authors: Salsinha Ana Sofia , Cima André , Araújo-Rodrigues Helena , Viana Sofia , Reis Flávio , Coscueta Ezequiel R. , Rodríguez-Alcalá Luis Miguel , Relvas João B. , Pintado Manuela
Published: May 2024

Caecal samples from rats on a Western diet were fermented in vitro to assess Fish and Pomegranate oil's impact on gut microbiota. Fish oil + Pomegranate oil raised α-diversity, butyrate, acetate, and GABA in the Western diet group.
Surface acoustic wave digital microfluidics with surface wettability gradient
Authors: Zhang Yaodong , Yang Ying
Published: May 2024

Droplets can also obey traffic rules. We propose a new method of surface acoustic wave digital microfluidic technology. Using the wetting model to select the driving object, and realize the intricate reaction among multiple droplets.
Rh2(esp)2-catalyzed three-component reaction of a diazo compound, alkyl azide and allylboronate for the synthesis of homoallylic amine derivatives
Authors: Yi Ze-Yu , Sun Na , Gu Peiming , Ji Yang , Li Rui
Published: May 2024

The three-component reaction of the diazo compound, azide and allylboronate for preparation of homoallylic amine derivatives was explored, and Rh2(esp)2 was utilized as the optimal catalyst.
Synergistic magnetoelectric enhancement in 0–3 particulate multiferroic composites: unveiling the exceptional interplay of Ba0.85Sm0.15TiO3 and Co0.85Sm0.15Fe2O4 phases for superior energy conversion
Authors: Bhat Showket Ahmad , Ikram Mohd
Published: May 2024

This study investigates the complex investigation of the 0–3 particulate multiferroic properties found in composite materials.
Facile synthesis of a hydrazone-based zinc(ii) complex for ferroptosis-augmented sonodynamic therapy
Authors: Li Dan , Fan Minghui , Wang Haobing , Zhu Yongjie , Yu Bole , Zhang Pingyu , Huang Huaiyi
Published: May 2024

This work reports a facilely synthesized zinc(ii) complex based on a hydrazone ligand for ferroptosis-augmented sonodynamic therapy.
Influence of Ge substitution on the structure and optical properties of Cu2ZnSn1−xGexS4 photovoltaic materials
Authors: Bhattacharya Amit , Mishra Vidyanshu , Terskikh Victor V. , Mar Arthur , Michaelis Vladimir K.
Published: May 2024

Germanium substitution in Cu2ZnSnS4 has been previously shown to improve power conversion efficiencies, but detailed information about the local structure within solid solutions Cu2ZnSn1−xGexS4 has so far been lacking.
Liquid exfoliation of molybdenum metallenes for non-inflammatory photothermal therapy of tumors
Authors: Lu Chenxin , Huang Xiang , Jin Zhaoying , Deng Junwei , Zha Zhengbao , Miao Zhaohua
Published: May 2024

We report a Mo metallene with excellent photothermal and antioxidant properties for non-inflammatory photothermal therapy.
Significant enhancement of the photon upconversion of a single fluorescent microsphere via annular near-field localization
Authors: Wu Chuangxin , Zeng Jiujie , Nie Guozheng , Zhan Shiping , Wu Xiaofeng , Liu Yunxin
Published: May 2024

Fluorescent microspheres exhibit unique emissions at the microscale and have been widely used as probes for immunoassays and advanced micro-sensors.
Isoflurane increases the activity of the vascular matrix metalloproteinase-2 in non-pregnant rats and increases the nitric oxide metabolites in pregnancy
Authors: Souza Carolina Rosa Rodrigues , Caetano Edileia Souza Paula , Rodrigues Serginara David , Lopes Matheus Cleto , Mattos Bruna Rahal , Santos Mariana Landenberger , Rizzi Elen , Dias-Junior Carlos A.
Published: May 2024

Surgeries that require general anesthesia occur in 1.5–2% of gestations. Isoflurane is frequently used because of its lower possibility of affecting fetal growth. Therefore, we examined the isoflurane anesthesia-induced effects on maternal hemodynamic and vascular changes. We hypothesized that isoflurane would enhance endothelium-dependent vasodilation as a consequence of increased nitric oxide and decreased metalloproteinases (MMPs).

Female rats (n=28) were randomized into 4 groups (7 rats/group): conscious (non-anesthetized) non-pregnant group, non-pregnant anesthetized group, conscious pregnant group, and pregnant anesthetized group. Anesthesia was performed on the 20th pregnancy day, and hemodynamic parameters were monitored. Nitric oxide metabolites, gelatinolytic activity of MMP-2 and MMP-9, and the vascular function were assessed.

Isoflurane caused no significant hemodynamic changes in pregnant compared with non-pregnant anesthetized group. Impaired acetylcholine-induced relaxations were observed only in conscious non-pregnant group (by approximately 62%) versus 81% for other groups. Phenylephrine-induced contractions were greater in endothelium-removed aorta segments of both pregnant groups (with or without isoflurane) compared with non-pregnant groups. Higher nitric oxide metabolites were observed in anesthetized pregnant in comparison with the other groups. Reductions in the 75 kDa activity and concomitant increases in 64 kDa MMP-2 isoforms were observed in aortas of pregnant anesthetized (or not) groups compared with conscious non-pregnant group.

Isoflurane anesthesia shows stable effects on hemodynamic parameters and normal MMP-2 activation in pregnancy. Furthermore, there were increases in nitric oxide bioavailability, suggesting that isoflurane provides protective actions to the endothelium in pregnancy.
The Growth of Complex Syntax in School-Age African American Children Who Speak African American English
Authors: Murray Bryan K. , Rhodes Katherine T. , Washington Julie A.
Published: May 2024

Purpose:

Syntax provides critical support for both academic success and linguistic growth, yet it has not been a focus of language research in school-age African American children. This study examines complex syntax performance of African American children in second through fifth grades.

Method:

The current study explores the syntactic performances of African American children (
N
= 513) in Grades 2–5 on the Test of Language Development–Intermediate who speak African American English. Multilevel modeling was used to evaluate the growth and associated changes between dialect density and syntax. Analyzed data were compared both to the normative sample and within the recruited sample.

Results:

The results suggest that dialect density exerted its impact early but did not continue to influence syntactic growth over time. Additionally, it was not until dialect density was accounted for in growth models that African American children's syntactic growth resembled normative expectations of a standardized language instrument.

Conclusion:

The current study suggests that failure to consider cultural language differences obscures our understanding of African American students' linguistic competence on standardized language assessments.
Developing a Dyslexia Diagnostic Team: A Feasibility Project
Authors: Farquharson Kelly , Ott K. Brooke , Reed Anne C.
Published: May 2024

Purpose:

Dyslexia, a neurobiological phonological processing deficit, can be identified early; however, there is a substantial variation between and within states regarding who makes this diagnosis and when. Dyslexia evaluations are often challenging to obtain and very expensive for families who need to seek them outside of the school setting. The purpose of this study was to determine the feasibility of developing a free dyslexia diagnostic team within our university speech and hearing clinic.

Method:

We developed a team of academic and clinical faculty and students at the doctoral, master's, and undergraduate levels. We developed a 6-hr (1 day) testing battery and recruited families via social media. Children needed to be between the ages of 8 and 11 years and reported to have classroom difficulty related to word reading and/or spelling.

Results:

We were able to create a strong and successful team, testing battery, and recruitment plan. Master's students were interested in the opportunity and families drove between 246 and 453 miles to participate. We allocated enough time in our summer schedule for all parties. However, we have concerns about the sustainability of this program, especially during the academic year.

Conclusions:

Broadly, this dyslexia diagnostic team is a feasible endeavor. There was internal and external community interest. We identified small and solvable barriers related to debriefing and test interpretation. We also identified larger issues related to funding, faculty availability, and student support.
Flow Rates of Bottle Nipples/Teats With Different Thicknesses of Barium and Infant Formula
Authors: Pados Britt F. , Engstler Katherine , Hernandez Kayla
Published: May 2024

Purpose:

The aim of this study was to evaluate the bottle nipple flow rate of liquid barium sulfate of three different International Dysphagia Diet Standardisation Initiative (IDDSI) thicknesses (i.e., thin, slightly thick, and mildly thick) and compare flow rates of infant formula thickened with Gelmix or oatmeal cereal to comparable thicknesses.

Method:

Liquid preparations were IDDSI flow tested to determine thickness. Nipple flow rate testing was conducted using 50 ml of liquid in a 4-oz Dr. Brown's bottle with the venting system in place. Liquid was extracted using a breast pump. The weight of liquid extracted was converted to flow in milliliters per minute using the density of the liquid in grams per milliliter.

Results:

Across nipple types and liquid thicknesses, the flow rate through the bottle nipple with formula was faster than with barium of the same thickness. Thickening with oatmeal cereal resulted in clogging of the nipple. Pulverizing the oatmeal did not improve clogging but did impact caloric density of the formula.

Conclusions:

Bottle nipple flow rates of liquid barium sulfate are not consistent with flow rates of thin infant formula or formula thickened with Gelmix to the same IDDSI thickness. These findings may impact the safety of oral feeding for some infants. Parents and clinicians need to be aware of clogging with oatmeal cereal as a factor that could contribute to variability in flow as well as difficulty extracting fluid for nutrition.
Transformer neural networks for closed-loop adaptive optics using nonmodulated pyramid wavefront sensors
Authors: Weinberger Camilo , Tapia Jorge , Neichel Benoît , Vera Esteban
Published: May 2024

Context. The pyramid wavefront sensor (PyWFS) provides the required sensitivity for demanding future adaptive optics (AO) instruments. However, the PyWFS is highly nonlinear and requires the use of beam modulation to successfully close an AO loop under varying atmospheric turbulence conditions. This comes at the expense of a loss in sensitivity.

Aims. We trained, analyzed, and compared the use of deep neural networks (NNs) as nonlinear estimators for the nonmodulated PyWFS, identifying the most suitable NN architecture for a reliable closed-loop AO.

Methods. We developed a novel training strategy for NNs that seeks to accommodate for changes in residual statistics between open and closed loops, plus the addition of noise for robustness purposes. Through simulations, we tested and compared several deep NNs from classical to new convolutional neural networks (CNNs), plus the most recent transformer neural network (TNN; global context visual transformer, GCViT), first for an open loop and then for a closed loop. By identifying and properly retraining the most adequate deep neural net, we tested its simulated performance first in an open loop and then for closing an AO loop at a variety of noise and turbulence conditions. We finally tested the trained NN ability to close a real AO loop for an optical bench.

Results. Using open-loop simulated data, we observe that a TNN (GCViT) largely surpasses any CNN in estimation accuracy in a wide range of turbulence conditions. Moreover, the TNN performs better in a simulated closed loop than CNNs, avoiding estimation issues at the pupil borders. When closing the loop at strong turbulence and low noise, the TNN using nonmodulated PyWFS data is able to close the loop, similar to a PyWFS with 12λ/D of modulation. When the noise is increased, only the TNN is able to close the loop, while the standard linear reconstructor fails even when a modulation is introduced. Using the GCViT, we closed a real AO loop in the optical bench and achieved a Strehl ratio between 0.28 and 0.77 for turbulence conditions corresponding to Fried parameters ranging from 6 to 20 cm, respectively.

Conclusions. Through a variety of simulated and experimental results, we demonstrate that a TNN is the most suitable architecture for extending the dynamic range without sacrificing sensitivity for a nonmodulated PyWFS. It opens the path for using nonmodulated Pyramid WFSs in an unprecedented range of atmospheric and noise conditions.
Confrontation between modelled solar integrated observables and direct observations
Authors: Meunier N. , Lagrange A.-M. , Dumusque X. , Sulis S.
Published: May 2024

Context. Stellar variability strongly impacts the search for low-mass exoplanets with radial velocity techniques. Two types of planet-free time series can be used to quantify this impact: models and direct solar observations after a subtraction of the Solar System planetary contribution. Making a comparison among these approaches is necessary to improve the models, which can then be used for blind tests across a broad range of conditions.

Aims. Our objective is therefore to validate the amplitude of the convective blueshift in plages used in our previous works, particularly in blind tests, with HARPS-N solar data.

Methods. We applied our model to the structures observed at the time of HARPS-N observations and established a direct comparison between the radial velocity time series. To complete our diagnosis, we also studied the observed radial velocities separately for each diffraction order derived from the individual cross-correlation functions, as well as our line-by-line radial velocities.

Results. We find that our previous model had been underestimating the amplitude of the convective blueshift inhibition by a factor of about 2. A direct estimation of the convective blueshift in the spectra, which is shown to be correlated with the plage filling factor, allows us to explain the difference with previous estimations obtained with MDI/SOHO Dopplergrams, based on the specific properties of the Ni line used in this mission. In addition, we identified several instrumental systematics, in particular, the presence of a 2 m s−1 peak-to-peak signal with a period of about 200 days in radial velocity and bisector. This signal could be due to periodic detector warmups, a systematic dependence of the long-term trend on wavelength that is possibly related to the variability of the continuum over time, and/or an offset in radial velocity after the interruption of several months in October 2017.

Conclusions. A large amplitude in the convective blueshift inhibition of (360 ms−1, namely twice more than in our previous works) must be used when building synthetic times series for blind tests. The presence of instrumental systematics should also be taken into account when using sophisticated methods based on line properties to mitigate stellar activity when searching for very weak signals.
Using space images for analysis of thermal anomalies in the city
Authors: Panasyuk Mikhail , Pudovik Elena , Malganova Irina , Berezova Irina
Published: May 2024

Paper analyzes thermal anomalies of Kazan city according to satellite images in thermal infrared range. Main goal of the study is to create maps of thermal anomalies in Kazan city, followed by recommendations to reduce impact of “heat island” phenomenon on the environment. Landsat satellite images for May and February were used as initial materials. Configuration of the “heat island” in different seasons of the year was studied. The study allowed us to identify areas in the city where differences in temperature and associated heat radiation were less intense, almost unchanged, or showed an increase. Thus, it was shown that within big industrial centers of a city separate foci of abnormally high temperatures are revealed. Classification of conditions according to the temperature level of city territories is developed. According to the results of the study, set of recommendations to reduce the negative consequences of the “heat island” impact on the urban ecosystem is proposed.
Optimization of flotation processes by bubble size selection
Authors: Suleimanov Rais
Published: May 2024

It is known that the size of the bubbles plays a decisive role in the flotation of particles. The paper presents the calculation of the optimal sizes of floating bubbles depending on the size of the particles of pollution. The latter allows you to adjust (select) the dispersion of bubbles, which increases the efficiency of the equipment: an increase in hydraulic loads, a decrease in capital and metal consumption.
Comparative life cycle assessment of different fabrication processes for perovskite solar mini-modules
Authors: Rossi Federico , Rotondi Leonardo , Stefanelli Maurizio , Sinicropi Adalgisa , Vesce Luigi , Parisi Maria Laura
Published: May 2024

Sustainable energy production is one of the major goals for society to address climate change, with the aim of reducing fossil fuel consumption and greenhouse gases emissions. One of the main alternatives to burning fossil fuels is solar energy conversion; therefore, scientific research has moved towards the development of photovoltaic devices that are able to harvest solar radiation and convert it into electric energy, such as perovskite solar cells (PSCs). Several production processes for PSCs exist, differing in the deposition technique of PSCs layers as well as energy and material consumption. One of the main challenges is then to minimize the environmental impact of PSC manufacturing, which can be assessed through Life Cycle Assessment. The aim of this work is to evaluate and compare the eco-profiles of four different PSC production line at mini-module scale, namely, Spin Coating, Blade Coating, Spin Coating + Press and Blade Coating in Glovebox. Results disfavour the latter manufacturing route, showing that its burden is higher than the alternatives. Differently, the Blade Coating process results to be the one having the lowest environmental impact among the proposed solutions, whereas Spin Coating and Spin Coating + Press lines show almost the similar intermediate result.