bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Zeolite‐Based Materials for Catalytic Oxidation of Volatile Organic Compounds
Authors: Qiu Shuxian , Lu Wei , Zeng Zhuoying , Su Xunxin , Lai Yilan , Liu Xiaojun , Gao Xingyuan , Kawi Sibudjing
Published: September 2024

Owing to the structural stability, modifiable acidity, and abundant pores/channels, zeolite‐based materials can act as catalysts or supports for effective conversion of volatile organic compounds (VOCs). In this review, a series of VOC oxidation processes catalyzed by zeolite‐based materials will be introduced, which include thermal oxidation, photocatalytic degradation, plasma‐driven removal, catalytic ozonation, microwave‐assisted degradation, and hybrid systems, where the specific roles, modification strategies, and structure–performance relationships of zeolites are discussed in depth. The following topics will also be covered, including the catalytic mechanisms of VOC oxidation, types of zeolite‐based materials in VOC catalytic oxidation, operation parameters in the processes, and reactor designs for efficiency optimization and cost control.
Effective Synthesis of C20‐Epi‐Isothiocyanato‐Salinomycin and its Thiourea Derivatives as Potential Anticancer Agents
Authors: Jiang Rui , Zhang Xin , Li Na , Mao Yuyin , Chen Huan , Deng Zhouming , Wang Wentao , Jiang Zhong‐Xing , Xu Liying , Yang Zhigang
Published: September 2024

Salinomycin, a naturally occurring polyether ionophore antibiotic isolated from Streptomyces albus, has been demonstrated potent cytotoxic activity against a variety of cancer cell lines. In particular, it exhibits selective targeting of cancer stem cells. However, systemic toxicity, drug resistance and low bioavailability of the drug significantly limit its potential applications. In this study, the C20‐epi‐isothiocyanate of salinomycin was designed and synthesized, and then reacted with amines as a versatile synthon to assemble a series of salinomycin thiourea derivatives, which improved the druggability of salinomycin. The antiproliferative activities of the compounds were evaluated in vitro against A549, HepG2, HeLa, 4T1, and MCF‐7 cancer cell lines using the CCK‐8 assay. The pharmacological results showed that some salinomycin thiourea derivatives exhibited excellent inhibitory activity against at least one of the tested tumor cells and high selectivity. Further mechanistic studies showed that compound 9 f, containing a 3,5‐difluorobenzyl moiety, could directly induce apoptosis, probably by increasing caspase‐9 protein expression and cell cycle arrest in G1 phase in a concentration dependent manner.
Halogen Bonding in N‐Alkyl‐Bromo‐/Lodo‐Pyridinium Salts and its Application in Chromatography
Authors: Wendt Peter , Bader Julia , Waltersmann Paul L. , Wendt Peter , Schröder Jan‐Hendrik , Keßler Mira , Stammler Hans‐Georg , Neumann Beate , Delp Axel , Paesler Franziska , Schulte Michael , Hoge Berthold
Published: September 2024

The alkylation of 3‐/4‐bromo‐ and ‐iodopyridine with methyl triflate smoothly affords the corresponding N‐methylpyridinium triflate salts. An anion exchange with NaI or [PPh4]Y (Y=Cl, Br, I) yields the corresponding halide salts. Most of them could be structurally characterized and their strong halogen bonds were investigated. While the halogen atom of 4‐halogenopyridinium is susceptible to nucleophilic substitution, 3‐halogenopyridinium ions are far more stable against nucleophilic attacks. Due to the comparable interaction strength of halogen bonds and hydrogen bonds, the latter of which is widely used in chromatography, the potential of 3‐halogenopyridinium moieties for an application in chromatography is obvious and was successfully employed in affinity chromatography of different proteins.
ClusFC‐IoT: A clustering‐based approach for data reduction in fog‐cloud‐enabled IoT
Authors: Hemmati Atefeh , Rahmani Amir Masoud
Published: September 2024

The Internet of Things (IoT) is an ever‐expanding network technology that connects diverse objects and devices, generating vast amounts of heterogeneous data at the network edge. These vast volumes of data present significant challenges in data management, transmission, and storage. In fog‐cloud‐enabled IoT, where data are processed at the edge (fog) and in the cloud, efficient data reduction strategies become imperative. One such method is clustering, which groups similar data points together to reduce redundancy and facilitate more efficient data management. In this paper, we introduce ClusFC‐IoT, a novel two‐phase clustering‐based approach designed to optimize the management of IoT‐generated data. In the first phase, which is performed in the fog layer, we used the K‐means clustering algorithm to group the received data from the IoT layer based on similarity. This initial clustering creates distinct clusters, with a central data point representing each cluster. Incoming data from the IoT side is assigned to these existing clusters if they have similar characteristics, which reduces data redundancy and transfers to the cloud layer. In a second phase performed in the cloud layer, we performed additional K‐means clustering on the data obtained from the fog layer. In this secondary clustering phase, we stabilized the similarities between the clusters created in the fog layer further optimized the data display, and reduced the redundancy. To verify the effectiveness of ClusFC‐IoT, we implemented it using four different IoT data sets in Python 3. The implementation results show a reduction in data transmission compared to other methods, which makes ClusFC‐IoT very suitable for resource‐constrained IoT environments.
Scalable Li‐Ion Battery with Metal/Metal Oxide Sulfur Cathode and Lithiated Silicon Oxide/Carbon Anode
Authors: Barcaro Edoardo , Marangon Vittorio , Bresser Dominic , Hassoun Jusef
Published: September 2024

A Li‐ion battery combines a cathode benefitting from Sn and MnO2 with high sulfur content, and a lithiated anode including fumed silica, few layer graphene (FLG) and amorphous carbon. This battery is considered a scalable version of the system based on lithium‐sulfur (Li−S) conversion, since it exploits at the anode the Li‐ion electrochemistry instead of Li‐metal stripping/deposition. Sn and MnO2 are used as cathode additives to improve the electrochemical process, increase sulfur utilization, while mitigating the polysulfides loss typical of Li−S devices. The cathode demonstrates in half‐cell a maximum capacity of ~1170 mAh gS−1, rate performance extended over 1 C, and retention of 250 cycles. The anode undergoes Li‐(de)alloying with silicon, Li‐(de)insertion into amorphous carbon, and Li‐(de)intercalation through FLG, with capacity of 500 mAh g−1 in half‐cell, completely retained over 400 cycles. The full‐cells are assembled by combining a sulfur cathode with active material loading up to 3 mg cm−2 and lithiated version of the anode, achieved either using an electrochemical pathway or a chemical one. The cells deliver at C/5 initial capacity higher than 1000 mAh gS−1, retained for over ~40 % upon 400 cycles. The battery is considered a promising energy storage system for possible scaling‐up in pouch or cylindrical cells.
Henkel‐like Decarboxylation Produces Mononuclear Arylalkalis, [4‐(CH3)3N(C6H4)M]+ which Hydrolyse and Undergo Surprising SN2 Reactions Between Alkali Hydroxides and (CH3)3NC6H5+
Authors: Altalhi Weam A. O. , Canty Allan J. , O'Hair Richard A. J.
Published: September 2024

Benzoate substituted with a cationic quaternary ammonium group at the para‐position, [4‐(CH3)3N(C6H4)CO2], forms mononuclear alkali metal ion complexes, [4‐(CH3)3N(C6H4)CO2M]+ (M=Li, Na, K, Rb and Cs), which are observed by electrospray‐ionisation mass spectrometry. When mass selected and subjected to collision‐induced dissociation each of these complexes undergoes decarboxylation to produce the mononuclear arylalkali complex cations, [4‐(CH3)3N(C6H4)M]+, which subsequently react with water via hydrolysis to yield the quaternary ammonium cation, (CH3)3NC6H5+. The unexpected product ions, [M((CH3)2NC6H5)]+, [M(CH3OH)]+, and M+, which are associated with the hydrolysis pathway, suggest an unusual reaction occurring within the exit channel ion‐molecule complex, [(CH3)3NC6H5+MOH]+. DFT calculations were used to examine the: decarboxylation reaction of [4‐(CH3)3N(C6H4)CO2M]+, which readily proceeds via a four‐centred transition state; the hydrolysis and SN2 reactions accounting for formation of products in the exit channel, which are connected via a roaming mechanism in which the metal hydroxide moiety migrates from the para‐hydrogen of (CH3)3NC6H5+ to one of the methyl groups.
Biogas production and techno‐economic feasibility studies of setting up household biogas technology in Africa: A critical review
Authors: Gbadeyan Oluwatoyin J. , Muthivhi Joseph , Linganiso Linda Z. , Deenadayalu Nirmala , Alabi Oluwaseyi O.
Published: September 2024

This critical review examines the potential of household biogas technology in Africa, focusing on biogas production and techno‐economic feasibility studies. The review highlights the benefits of biogas technology, including renewable energy generation, waste management, and improved public health. A significant portion of Africa's rural population, approximately 60%, grapples with limited access to reliable power sources. The study analyzes various biogas production systems, including anaerobic digesters and biomass gasifiers, and evaluates their economic viability in different African contexts. The review identifies key factors influencing the adoption of household biogas technology, including policy and regulatory frameworks, financing mechanisms, and public awareness. Biogas production stands out as one of the promising renewable energy sources. However, it also discusses the challenges and limitations of implementing this technology on a continental scale. The study analyzes various biogas production systems, including anaerobic digesters and biomass gasifiers, and evaluates their economic viability in different African contexts. The review identifies key factors influencing the adoption of household biogas technology, including policy and regulatory frameworks, financing mechanisms, and public awareness. The study concludes by recommending strategies for scaling up biogas technology in Africa, including capacity building, technology transfer, and innovative financing models. The review aims to provide a comprehensive resource for researchers, policymakers, and practitioners working towards sustainable energy solutions in Africa.
Research on the technical improvement of the turbine runner of a power station based on improving stability
Authors: Li Shenhui , Yao Bing , Pang Jiayang , Liu Demin , Chengmei Dan , Jiang Dengyun , Wang Haiqi , Gang Yuanyuan , Cheng Huan , Liu Xiaobing
Published: September 2024

In view of problems such as the narrow efficiency area, large hydraulic vibration area, pressure pulsation, and serious sediment wear of turbines at the Futang hydropower station, the technical transformation of turbine runners was carried out by modifying the blade shape and increasing the blade thickness, and a combination of numerical simulations based on shear stress transport k–ω turbulence model and tests was adopted to improve the operational stability of power station units. Calculation and testing demonstrate an enlargement of the high‐efficiency zone. Specifically, the optimal efficiency of the runner increases by 0.37%, while the rated efficiency rises by 0.19%. Significant reductions are observed in pressure pulsation within the draft tube and vaneless area decrease of approximately 50%. There is a high‐frequency pressure pulsation in the vaneless zone and the runner under low‐load conditions, and the influence of dynamic and static interference gradually weakens with the increase of opening. The draft tube is prone to eccentric vortex bands under partial working conditions, which causes the unit to be affected by low‐frequency pulsation. This optimization also leads to a notable decrease in runner blade wear, with the maximum sand and water velocity reduced from 45 to 40 m/s, resulting in a 30% reduction in sand wear. Moreover, there is a substantial enhancement in the runner's stiffness, with the thickness of the blade near the high stress area of the upper crown and lower ring increasing by over 50%, and the weight of each individual blade increasing by more than 50%. These research findings validate that modifying the runner blade effectively improves flow patterns, reduces eddy current generation, minimizes pressure pulsation, widens the high‐efficiency zone, decreases wear, and enhances the operational stability of the unit. The technical transformation method and research results of this study have important guiding significance for similar technical transformation of other power stations
Multiscale spatiotemporal evolution and zoning of energy consumption carbon footprint in the Yellow River Basin
Authors: Zhang Liyan , Song Mei , Zhang Jia , Hao Xuguang
Published: September 2024

Classifying emission reduction zones on different scales has important implications for the ecological protection and high‐quality development of the Yellow River Basin. Based on remote sensing data and a light‐carbon conversion model, carbon footprints at provincial, municipal, and county scales in the Yellow River Basin are measured. The spatiotemporal evolution critical paths of carbon footprints at the three spatial scales are compared and classified into different zones using spatiotemporal evolution analysis methods. The conclusions are as follows: (1) The carbon footprint increased over the years. The spatial distributions of carbon footprints at the three scales are not only consistent but also different. The study of carbon footprints at the county scale is more conducive to the summary of the spatiotemporal evolution and the formulation of detailed emission reduction schemes. (2) Four provinces, 48 cities, and 373 counties are designated as a “core protected zone”; three provinces, 29 cities, and 177 counties are designated as a “strictly governed zone”; one province, 12 cities, and 47 counties are designated as a “key restricted zone”; four cities and 39 counties are designated as an “alert diffusion zone.” (3) The agglomeration expansion trend and the spillover effect of high‐carbon footprint units at the county scale are more obvious. Further enhancement of the path‐locking characteristics of the carbon footprints of counties will make governance more difficult. Effective governance of carbon footprint at the county scale is of urgent concern. These results provide scientific evidence for multiscale carbon emission control and zoning policy formulation in the Yellow River Basin.
Correlation between serum vitamin D level and acute invasive enteritis in children
Authors: Yang Lingrong , Fang Yu , Zheng Jinyu , Zhu Qiaoying , Tang Li , Xiong Fu
Published: September 2024

Background

Diarrhea is a leading cause of death in young children worldwide. Vitamin D deficiency impairs the body's ability to clear pathogens, reduces tight junction protein expression in intestinal epithelial cells, and enhances Th1‐mediated intestinal inflammation. This study aimed to investigate the effects of serum vitamin D levels on acute invasive enteritis in children.

Methods

This prospective cohort study included 82 children aged 1–3 years with clinically diagnosed acute invasive enteritis at Sichuan Maternal and Child Health Hospital from February 2021 to February 2022, alongside a control group of 80 healthy children. Fecal specimens were collected for routine tests and occult blood analysis, while blood samples were taken for routine tests, C‐reactive protein, and 25‐OHD levels. Comparative analyses were performed between groups, and multifactorial logistic regression was used to identify factors influencing invasive enteritis.

Results

The study group showed significantly lower serum 25‐OHD levels (27.95 ± 9.91 ng/mL) compared to controls (32.76 ± 10.23 ng/mL, p < .01). Among the study group, 19.5% (16/82) had levels <20 ng/mL, versus 12.5% (10/80) in controls. Regular vitamin D supplementation was lower in the study group (58.5% vs. 77.5%, p < .05). Outdoor activity duration was also reduced (2.57 ± 0.98 h vs. 3.04 ± 0.88 h, p < .01). Multivariate analysis identified that exclusive breastfeeding, greater outdoor activity time and regular vitamin D supplementation were all associated with reduced risk of invasive enteritis (p < .05).

Conclusion

The findings indicate an association between low serum 25‐OHD levels and acute invasive enteritis in children aged 1‐3 years, suggesting that consistent vitamin D supplementation and sufficient outdoor activity may protect against this condition.
Gut microbiota dynamics of adult and sub‐adult sika deer during reintroduction
Authors: Zhang Wentao , Yang Feifei , Bao Heng , Sun Jiale , Cheng Wannian , Chen Shiyu , Roberts Nathan J. , Guan Yanhui , Guo Shixian , Sun Jixu , Jiang Guangshun
Published: September 2024

Prey populations significantly influence the distribution of top predators. The sika deer (Cervus nippon), a key prey species for the Amur tiger in Northeast China, plays a critical role in the recovery and dispersal of Amur tiger populations. Reintroduction is a pivotal strategy for restoring prey populations, but it presents challenges, especially in terms of adaptation to the natural environment during the natural training process before animals are released. In this study, we sampled six adult and six sub‐adult sika deer and employed high‐throughput sequencing of the 16S ribosomal RNA gene to investigate changes in gut microbial diversity, composition, and function during natural training. The results showed that adult sika deer had higher gut microbiota diversity compared to sub‐adults. However, as natural training progressed, the gut microbial diversity in sub‐adults approached that of adults. Additionally, beneficial, fiber‐digesting bacteria associated with adaptation to the natural environment tended to increase during nature training in both adult and sub‐adult sika deer, while pathogenic bacteria tended to decrease. We also compared the metabolic function of the gut microbiota in adult and sub‐adult sika deer, which showed that the carbohydrate metabolic function of both adults and sub‐adults decreased significantly with natural training, declining more rapidly in sub‐adults. Conversely, the lipid metabolic function in sub‐adults increased significantly with natural training. Overall, a period of nature training is necessary before reintroducing animals to their natural habitats, and sub‐adult sika deer, in particular, exhibit greater adaptability to environmental changes as reflected by their gut microbiota dynamics. These findings offer valuable insights for the reintroduction of sika deer and other ungulates. We recommend incorporating natural training in reintroduction programs and prioritizing sub‐adult animals for reintroduction.
Enhancing protective immunity against bacterial infection via coating nano‐Rehmannia glutinosa polysaccharide with outer membrane vesicles
Authors: Huang Yee , Sun Jiaying , Cui Xuemei , Li Xuefeng , Hu Zizhe , Ji Quanan , Bao Guolian , Liu Yan
Published: September 2024

With the coming of the post‐antibiotic era, there is an increasingly urgent need for safe and efficient antibacterial vaccines. Bacterial outer membrane vesicles (OMVs) have received increased attention recently as a potential subunit vaccine. OMVs are non‐replicative and contain the principle immunogenic bacterial antigen, which circumvents the safety concerns of live‐attenuated vaccines. Here, we developed a novel nano‐vaccine by coating OMVs onto PEGylated nano‐Rehmannia glutinosa polysaccharide (pRL) in a structure consisting of concentric circles, resulting in a more stable vaccine with improved immunogenicity. The immunological function of the pRL‐OMV formulation was evaluated in vivo and in vitro, and the underlying mechanism was studied though transcriptomic analysis. The pRL‐OMV formulation significantly increased dendritic cell (DC) proliferation and cytokine secretion. Efficient phagocytosis of the formulation by DCs was accompanied by DC maturation. Further, the formulation demonstrated superior lymph node targeting, contributing to a potent mixed cellular response and bacterial‐specific antibody response against Bordetella bronchiseptica infection. Specifically, transcriptomic analysis revealed that the immune protection function correlated with T‐cell receptor signalling and Th1/Th2/Th17 differentiation, among other markers of enhanced immunological activity. These findings have implications for the future application of OMV‐coated nano‐carriers in antimicrobial immunotherapy.
On two problems of defective choosability of graphs
Authors: Ma Jie , Xu Rongxing , Zhu Xuding
Published: September 2024

Given positive integers , and a nonnegative integer , we say a graph is ‐choosable if for every list assignment with for each and , there exists an ‐coloring of such that each monochromatic subgraph has maximum degree at most . In particular, ‐choosable means ‐colorable, ‐choosable means ‐choosable and ‐choosable means ‐defective ‐choosable. This paper proves that there are 1‐defective 3‐choosable planar graphs that are not 4‐choosable, and for any positive integers , and nonnegative integer , there are ‐choosable graphs that are not ‐choosable. These results answer questions asked by Wang and Xu, and Kang, respectively. Our construction of ‐choosable but not ‐choosable graphs generalizes the construction of Král' and Sgall for the case .
Deep learning technology in vascular image segmentation and disease diagnosis
Authors: Du Chengyang , Zhuang Jie , Huang Xinglu
Published: September 2024

Blood vessel segmentation is a crucial aspect of medical image processing, aiding medical professionals in more accurate disease analysis and diagnosis. Manual blood vessel segmentation methods are time‐consuming and cumbersome, making the development of automatic segmentation methods essential. The rapid advancements in deep learning technology have introduced new tools and methods for vascular image segmentation. In this review, we provide a comprehensive overview of deep learning‐based blood vessel segmentation methods across various fields, including retinal vessel segmentation, cerebrovascular segmentation, and pulmonary vessel segmentation. Several prevalent diseases, such as retinal vascular diseases, cerebrovascular diseases, pulmonary vascular diseases, and tumors, have posed significant health challenges globally. This review also discusses the application of deep learning technology in disease diagnosis within these contexts. Finally, considering the current research landscape, we discuss existing challenges and potential future developments in blood vessel segmentation. We aim to assist researchers in gaining a comprehensive understanding and designing effective blood vessel segmentation models, ultimately offering opportunities for early disease diagnosis and treatment.
Visualizing the assumptions of network meta‐analysis
Authors: Tu Yu‐Kang , Lai Pei‐Chun , Huang Yen‐Ta , Hodges James
Published: September 2024

Network meta‐analysis (NMA) incorporates all available evidence into a general statistical framework for comparing multiple treatments. Standard NMAs make three major assumptions, namely homogeneity, similarity, and consistency, and violating these assumptions threatens an NMA's validity. In this article, we suggest a graphical approach to assessing these assumptions and distinguishing between qualitative and quantitative versions of these assumptions. In our plot, the absolute effect of each treatment arm is plotted against the level of effect modifiers, and the three assumptions of NMA can then be visually evaluated. We use four hypothetical scenarios to show how violating these assumptions can lead to different consequences and difficulties in interpreting an NMA. We present an example of an NMA evaluating steroid use to treat septic shock patients to demonstrate how to use our graphical approach to assess an NMA's assumptions and how this approach can help with interpreting the results. We also show that all three assumptions of NMA can be summarized as an exchangeability assumption. Finally, we discuss how reporting of NMAs can be improved to increase transparency of the analysis and interpretability of the results.
Augmented Reality‐Guided Mastoidectomy Simulation: A Randomized Controlled Trial Assessing Surgical Proficiency
Authors: Hadida Barzilai Dor , Tejman‐Yarden Shai , Yogev David , Vazhgovsky Oliana , Nagar Netanel , Sasson Lior , Sion‐Sarid Racheli , Parmet Yisrael , Goldfarb Abraham , Ilan Ophir
Published: September 2024

Objective

Mastoidectomy surgical training is challenging due to the complex nature of the anatomical structures involved. Traditional training methods based on direct patient care and cadaveric temporal bone training have practical shortcomings. 3D‐printed temporal bone models and augmented reality (AR) have emerged as promising solutions, particularly for mastoidectomy surgery, which demands an understanding of intricate anatomical structures. Evidence is needed to explore the potential of AR technology in addressing these training challenges.

Methods

21 medical students in their clinical clerkship were recruited for this prospective, randomized controlled trial assessing mastoidectomy skills. The participants were randomly assigned to the AR group, which received real‐time guidance during drilling on 3D‐printed temporal bone models, or to the control group, which received traditional training methods. Skills were assessed on a modified Welling scale and evaluated independently by two senior otologists.

Results

The AR group outperformed the control group, with a mean overall drilling score of 19.5 out of 25, compared with the control group's score of 12 (p < 0.01). The AR group was significantly better at defining mastoidectomy margins (p < 0.01), exposing the antrum, preserving the lateral semicircular canal (p < 0.05), sharpening the sinodural angle (p < 0.01), exposing the tegmen and attic, preserving the ossicles (p < 0.01), and thinning and preserving the external auditory canal (p < 0.05).

Conclusion

AR simulation in mastoidectomy, even in a single session, improved the proficiency of novice surgeons compared with traditional methods.

Level of Evidence

NA Laryngoscope, 135:894–900, 2025
Automatic Differentiation Accelerated Shape Optimization Approaches to Photonic Inverse Design in FDFD/FDTD
Authors: Hooten Sean , Sun Peng , Gantz Liron , Fiorentino Marco , Beausoleil Raymond , Van Vaerenbergh Thomas
Published: September 2024

Shape optimization approaches to inverse design offer low‐dimensional, physically‐guided parameterizations of structures by representing them as combinations of primitives. However, on fixed grids, computing the gradient of a user objective via the adjoint variables method requires a product of forward/adjoint field solutions and the Jacobian of the simulation material distribution with respect to the structural shape parameters. Shape parameters often perturb global parts of the simulation grid resulting in many non‐zero Jacobian entries. These are often computed by finite‐difference (FD) in practice, and hence can be non‐trivial. In this work, the gradient calculation is accelerated by invoking automatic differentiation (AD) in instantiations of structural material distributions, enabled by the development of extensible differentiable feature‐mappings from parameters to primitives and differentiable effective logic operations (denoted AutoDiffGeo or ADG). ADG can also be used to accelerate FD‐based shape optimization by efficient boundary selection. AD‐enhanced shape optimization is demonstrated using three integrated photonic examples: a blazed grating coupler, a waveguide transition taper, and a polarization‐splitting grating coupler. The accelerations of the gradient calculation by AD relative to FD with boundary selection exceed 10, resulting in total optimization wall time accelerations of – on the same hardware with no compromise to device figure‐of‐merit.
Theory of Classical Electrodynamics with Topologically Quantized Singularities as Electric Charges
Authors: Golik Bruno , Jukić Dario , Buljan Hrvoje
Published: September 2024

A theory of classical electrodynamics, where the only admissible electric charges are topological singularities in the electromagnetic field, is formulated. Charge quantization is accounted by the Chern theorem, such that Dirac magnetic monopoles are not needed. The theory allows positive and negative charges of equal magnitude, where the sign of the charge corresponds to the chirality of the topological singularity. Given the trajectory of the singularity, one can calculate electric and magnetic fields identical to those produced by Maxwell's equations for a moving point charge, apart from a multiplicative constant factor related to electron charge and vacuum permittivity. The theory is based on the relativistic Weyl equation in frequency‐wavevector space, with eigenstates comprising the position, velocity, and acceleration of the singularity, and eigenvalues defining the retarded position of the charge. From the eigenstates, one calculates the Berry connection and the Berry curvatures, and identifies the curvatures as electric and magnetic fields.
Generalized predictions of the pumping characteristics and viscous dissipation of single‐screw extruders including three‐dimensional curvature effects
Authors: Herzog Daniel , Roland Wolfgang , Marschik Christian , Berger‐Weber Gerald Roman
Published: September 2024

Reliable predictions of the flow rate and viscous dissipation in the melt conveying zone of single‐screw extruders are crucial for designing high‐quality and efficient extrusion processes. Full‐scale computational fluid dynamics simulations offer deep insights into the process, but they cover only specific use cases. Conversely, state‐of‐the‐art analytical approximation models suffer from a systematic error by neglecting channel curvature. To overcome these limitations, we employed a hybrid modeling approach that efficiently combines analytical, numerical, and data‐based techniques. First, the mathematical problem was formulated for a three‐dimensional, isothermal Stokes flow of power‐law fluids in curved channel segments of unit length, and the theory of similarity was applied to render it in a dimensionless form. Using the finite‐volume method, the flow problem was then solved numerically for a wide range of extrusion setups. Finally, by means of symbolic regression and genetic programming, three dimensionless approximation equations were derived from the numerical dataset. These regression models provide continuous and remarkably accurate predictions  of both flow rate and viscous dissipation rate, and clearly outperform existing approximations due to the included effects of channel curvature. Implemented within screw design software, our novel regression models will enable faster progress in screw design and process troubleshooting.

Highlights

Three‐dimensional flow of power‐law fluids in helical screw channels

Generalized problem description using dimensional analysis

Melt conveying simulations considering both curvature and flight effects

Integration of process knowledge into symbolic regression modeling

Analytical screw characteristic curves with extended scope of validity
Development and validation of a two‐tier number sense test for sixth‐grade students in fractions and decimals
Authors: Birgin Osman , Peker Elif Seval
Published: September 2024

The aim of this study was to develop an instrument for assessing sixth‐grade students’ number sense skills in fractions and decimals. This study was conducted on 452 sixth graders (10–11 years old) from the western region of Turkey. The construct validity of the number sense test (NST) was examined via exploratory factor analysis (EFA) and confirmatory factor analysis (CFA). First, the draft NST, which consists of 36 two‐tier items, was administered to 208 students for the EFA. Repeated EFA results indicated that the NST consisted of five number sense components with 25 items (understanding the meaning and magnitude of numbers, recognizing the effects of operations on numbers, using multiple representations of numbers, using reference points in numbers, and judging the reasonableness of a computational result). The NST, with factor loadings ranging from 0.60 to 0.87, accounted for 72.39% of the total variance. The composite reliability and Cronbach's alpha coefficients ranged from 0.88 to 0.92. The CFA was administered to an additional 244 students in the school. The results of the first‐ and second‐order CFA revealed that the model fit of the NST was good (Chi‐square/df = 2.04; RMSEA = 0.066; NNFI = 0.97; IFI = 0.98; CFI= 0.97; and S‐RMR = 0.065). The results of the present study indicate that the NST is a valid and reliable instrument for assessing sixth‐grade students' number sense skills in fractions and decimals.
Effects on growth, weight and body composition after CFTR modulators in children with cystic fibrosis
Authors: López Cárdenes CM. , Merino Sánchez‐Cañete A. , Vicente Santamaría S. , Gascón Galindo C. , Merino Sanz N. , Tabares González A. , Blitz Castro E. , Morales Tirado A. , Garriga García M. , López Rozas M. , Ramos Riesgo T. , Álvarez Beltrán M. , Gutiérrez Martínez JR. , Suárez González M. , García Romero R. , De la Mano Hernández A. , Muñoz Codoceo MR. , Martín Fernández C. , Tutau Gómez C. , Torcuato Rubio E. , Ortiz Pérez P. , Loverdos Eseverri I. , García Volpe C. , Salcedo Lobato E. , Martín Rivada A. , Castro Millan AM. , Del Brio Castillo R. , Sierra San Nicolás S. , Murray Hurtado M. , Crehuá Gaudiza E. , Medina Martínez M. , González Jiménez D. ,   y grupo de trabajo de FQ y páncreas de la SEGHNP
Published: September 2024

Background

Cystic Fibrosis (CF) is associated with compromised nutrition status, which is responsible for morbidity and mortality along with lung function decline. This study was designed to examine changes in anthropometric markers and body composition parameters by bioelectrical impedance analysis after CFTR modulator (CFTRm) treatment.

Methods

We compared anthropometric parameters and body composition before and after 6 and 12 months of CFTRm treatment. Results are stratified into subgroups according to the modulator used with dual therapy with lumacaftor + ivacaftor or tezacaftor + ivacaftor (LUMA/TEZ + IVA) or triple therapy with elexacaftor + tezacaftor + ivacaftor (ELE + TEZ + IVA). Body composition data are available in patients treated with ELE + TEZ + IVA.

Results

Two hundred and thirty‐four children (55.1% male) were recruited. The median age was 13.6 years (inter‐quartile range [IQR] 10.7–16.1). We can observe a statistically significant increase in the weight Z score and BMI Z score after CFTRm. In terms of changes in body composition, we observe a significant increase in fat mass (FM) expressed both in kilograms and as a percentage at 6 months (p < .05; Wilcoxon‐test), with no such differences found at 12 months. We also observe a statistically significant increase in fat‐free‐mass (FFM), expressed in kilograms at 6 and 12 months (p < .05; Wilcoxon‐test).

Conclusion

Weight status improved and changes in body composition occurred in children after CFTRm therapy, including an increase of fat mass. Further studies are needed to confirm these changes in body composition and their impact on disease progression.
Conceptual Design of Omnidirectional Bandgap in 1D Photonic Crystals Using Various Refractive Index Profiles
Authors: Salem Mohamed Shaker , Abdelaleem Asmaa Mohamed , Nasr Gamal Madboly , Amin Mohamed
Published: September 2024

Herein, the theoretical engineering of omnidirectional bandgap in a 1D photonic crystal using different refractive index profiles is reported. The periodicity of each profile is maintained unchanged. However, the refractive index modulation is presumed to vary either discretely or continuously. Bragg stacks demonstrate the discrete refractive index modulation, whereas sinusoidal and sawtooth patterns are employed to generate the continuous modulation of refractive index. The corresponding omnidirectional bandgap is evaluated as a function of the optical thickness, the limiting values of the refractive index profiles, and the nature of the modulation profile using the transfer matrix approach. At high refractive index contrast, a large bandgap is achieved employing a sinusoidal shape. However, the bandgap associated with the Bragg profile widens as refractive index contrast decreases. This study reveals that the shape of the refractive index profile is a significant parameter that can drastically tune the omnidirectional bandgap of the photonic crystal.
Natural rhenium sulfide clusters formed under conditions of laser desorption‐ionization
Authors: Lebedev Viacheslav V. , Yarykin Daniil I. , Chaplygin Ilya V. , Gorelkov Oleg P. , Zalavutdinov Rinad Kh. , Buryak Aleksey K.
Published: September 2024

Rationale

Cluster forms of rhenium sulfides have important practical applications as catalysts in oil refining and thus present high interest. However, only a limited number of rhenium sulfide clusters have been described previously. It is known that cluster formation actively occurs under conditions of laser desorption–ionization; nevertheless, detailed studies of rhenium sulfides under such conditions were apparently not conducted previously.

Methods

A sample of natural rhenium sulfide, collected from the fumarolic field of Kudriavy volcano (Iturup island, Russia) in 2002, was investigated using the laser desorption–ionization mass spectrometry method. The formed rhenium sulfide clusters were registered by a time‐of‐flight detector and identified programmatically using the software developed in IPCE RAS. The identification involved a comparison of the distribution of isotopic peak intensities, observed in the resulting mass spectra, with the theoretical probabilities of occurrence of various isotopologues for hypothetical rhenium sulfide species.

Results

Over 60 rhenium sulfide clusters of RexSy+ and RexSyOz− types containing up to 10 rhenium atoms were formed when a sample of natural rhenium sulfide was exposed to laser desorption–ionization conditions. Several isolated heterometallic ReXMoSY+ and ReXMoSYOZ− clusters containing up to eight rhenium atoms were additionally observed in the resulting mass spectra. The species with compositions, for which the electrically neutral analogs are known, apparently were the most stable rhenium sulfide clusters among the detected ones.

Conclusions

The obtained data allowed summarizing the patterns of formation of rhenium sulfide clusters under conditions of laser desorption‐ionization. The ability of rhenium and sulfur to form cluster species containing from 7 to 10 atoms of rhenium was likely discovered for the first time. The majority of the rhenium sulfide clusters described in this study, notably RexSy+ ions containing over seven atoms of rhenium, were apparently not observed previously.
Advances in Stability of NiFe‐Based Anodes toward Oxygen Evolution Reaction for Alkaline Water Electrolysis
Authors: Song Wenyu , Xia Chenfeng , Zaman Shahid , Chen Shenghua , Xiao Chunhui
Published: September 2024

Alkaline electrolysis plays a crucial role in sustainable energy solutions by utilizing electrolytic cells to produce hydrogen gas, providing a clean and efficient method for energy storage and conversion. Efficient, stable, and low‐cost electrocatalysts for the oxygen evolution reaction (OER) are essential to facilitate alkaline water electrolysis on a commercial scale. Nickel‐iron‐based (NiFe‐based) transition metal electrocatalysts are considered the most promising non‐precious metal catalysts for alkaline OER due to their low cost, abundance, and tunable catalytic properties. Nevertheless, the majority of existing NiFe‐based catalysts suffer from limited activity and poor stability, posing a significant challenge in meeting industrial applications. This also highlights a common situation where the emphasis on material activity receives significant attention, while the equally critical stability aspect is often underemphasized. Initiating with a comprehensive exploration of the stability of NiFe‐based OER materials, this article first summarizes the debate surrounding the determination of active sites in NiFe‐based OER electrocatalysts. Subsequently, the degradation mechanisms of recently reported NiFe‐based electrocatalysts are outlined, encompassing assessments of both chemical and mechanical endurance, along with essential approaches for enhancing their stability. Finally, suggestions are put forth regarding the essential considerations for the design of NiFe‐based OER electrocatalysts, with a focus on heightened stability.
Single Posthepatic Portosystemic Shunt Communicated With Internal Thoracic Vein and Azygos Continuation of the Caudal Vena Cava in a Dog
Authors: Takeuchi Ryo , Ishigaki Kumiko , Yoshida Orie , Heishima Tatsuya , Iida Kaito , Asano Kazushi
Published: September 2024

Computed tomography angiography (CTA) was performed under general anaesthesia on a 7‐month‐old toy poodle that was referred with the chief complaints of salivation and neurological symptoms. The CTA revealed a rare form of posthepatic portosystemic shunt (PSS) via the suspected persistent left umbilical vein communicating with the internal thoracic vein in addition to an azygos continuation of the caudal vena cava (CVC). The patient underwent surgery for partial ligation of PSS on Day 4 after the initial examination. On Day 71, after the initial examination, a second surgery was performed for complete ligation. Approximately 10 years have passed since the patient's second surgery, and he is still healthy, and generally in good condition. Although the morphology of the shunt in this case was unusual and was accompanied by an azygos continuation of the CVC, a favourable course of treatment was obtained by ligating the shunt vessel. This case report suggests that CTA can reveal the complex morphological characteristics like our case. Surgical treatment in this case resulted in favourable progress, similar to that in dogs with commonly observed extrahepatic PSS.
Does donor country impact the efficacy of health aid?: Evidence from the COVID‐19 pandemic
Authors: Un Anthony , Un Paul
Published: September 2024

During the coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID‐19) pandemic, many nations relied on unprecedented amounts of health‐sector aid to efficiently vaccinate their populations. These vaccines and supporting materials came from a variety of traditional and nontraditional donors, with the majority donor differing by recipient country. Previous research has examined the political benefits to donor states of providing health aid before and during the COVID‐19 pandemic. Less is known, however, about how recipients view health aid based on the donor and whether this impacts health aid resource use. This research aims to investigate whether recipient preferences over the source of health assistance affects the efficacy of aid, while using a novel vax‐score method to account for existing trends and predictors of vaccine uptake. Using COVID‐19 vaccine donation and uptake statistics collected by the Duke Global Health Innovation Center, the IMF, and the World Health Organization, we compare vaccine uptake across many vaccine recipient countries to investigate the impact of vaccine origin (Chinese vs. non‐Chinese source). We find that while increased donated vaccines per capita significantly raises the proportion of the population vaccinated at 12 months, the source of the donated vaccines has no impact. Previously reported recipient‐side concerns over vaccine origin have no impact on population‐level uptake at 12 months. Additionally, we observe that a vax‐score metric derived from vaccine uptake of a suite of childhood vaccines predicts COVID‐19 vaccine uptake beyond differences in GDP and GDP per capita. These results have implications for health aid policy and future research into foreign aid efficacy.
Modeling temporal dynamics of a radiant Casson fluid near a steeped plate emitting heat and mass fluxes
Authors: Das Sanatan , Karmakar Poly , Banu Ayesha Siddika , Sarkar Soumitra , Ali Asgar , Jana Rabindra Nath
Published: September 2024

In today's rapidly advancing world, more deliberate development and implementation of energy‐efficient thermal management systems is emergent. In industrial and engineering contexts, the regulation of heat and mass transfer phenomena is heavily swayed by factors such as heat and mass fluxes, and wall temperature, and concentration levels. In cryogenic containers, understanding heat flux and wall temperature is essential for maintaining ultra‐low temperatures over extended periods. In this context, our paper embarks on modeling the transient dynamics of a radiant Casson fluid adjacent to a steeped plate, which is featured by its emission of both heat and mass fluxes. The plate is under two thermal conditions, namely uniform wall temperature (UWT) and uniform heat flux (UHF), which are crucial in modulating both upward and downward heat transport processes. The Laplace transform (LT) technique yields close‐form solutions for the model's governing equations. The distribution of flow and salient physical quantities are graphed and elucidated in response to intricate physical parameters. A comparative graphical analysis of UWT and UHF scenarios reveals stark differences. Notably, the fluid's flow rate appears considerably amplified in the UWT scenario compared to the UHF one. Furthermore, the UHF setting profoundly influences the heat and mass transportation within the fluid's flow realm. A pronounced Casson parameter tends to thin out the velocity profile. Concurrently, a heightened radiation parameter results in a reduction in fluid temperature. The theoretical framework explored in our study is not just an academic exercise but holds tangible applicability across varied sectors. This spans from rocket chamber cooling, where fine‐tuned heat flux conditions are paramount for safeguarding operations, to industries like cosmetics and food processing, which demand meticulous thermal regulation to ensure product excellence.
The Role of Health Literacy and Care Pathways in the Provision of Palliative Care and Patient-Centred Care: A Discussion Paper
Authors: Urrizola Amaia , Lundeby Tonje , Hjermstad Marianne , Deliens Luc , Caraceni Augusto , Fallon Marie , Kaasa Stein
Published: September 2024

Palliative care is more than end-of-life care. It addresses the well-being of patients living with a disease across physical, psychological, social, and existential dimensions. Aligned with the principles of palliative care, patient-centred care is defined as “providing care that is respectful of, and responsive to, individual patient preferences, needs and values”. As such, both palliative and patient-centred care are undoubtedly aligned with the Sustainable Development Goals of good health and well-being, and reduced inequalities. Despite recommendations from the WHO and others for its integration throughout the healthcare continuum, palliative care is still commonly perceived as end-of-life care only and is not routinely integrated. This misconception along with social, economic, commercial, and organisational barriers impede its seamless integration in health care. Health literacy is crucial to correct misconceptions and empower patients and caregivers to advocate for appropriate care contributing to good health and reduced inequalities.

In this chapter, we explore how health literacy can be improved, how individual tailoring of the clinical communication according to the patient’s health literacy can ensure that the patient voice is heard, and the role of standardised care pathways as a proposed strategy to ensure quality cancer care with integrated palliative care. Finally, we will present the MyPath project as a potential solution to improved care in patients with cancer. By developing digital patient-centred care pathways and supporting the communication and clinical interactions between the healthcare providers, the patient, and caregivers, MyPath will take into account the patient’s health literacy and contribute to the Sustainable Development Goals.