bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Influence of Unzipped Multiwalled Carbon Nanotube Oxides‐Epoxy Paint on the Corrosion Rate of Mild Steel in Marine Environment
Authors: Gupta Balabhadruni Koushik , Shashank Tulugu , Vijayakumar R. P. , Dharmadikari Ketaki , Ismail Shahib M. , DSouza Glen Cletus , Ratna D.
Published: May 2024

In recent years, numerous innovative approaches have emerged to enhance the corrosion resistance of materials. This study investigates the effect of enhancing mild steel corrosion through the incorporation of unzipped multiwalled carbon nanotube oxides (UMCNO) into epoxy resin. Additionally, the effect of various operating parameters, such as temperature, UMCNO concentration, salt concentration, duration of exposure, and coating thickness, have also been considered in the study. The Box–Behnken method was used for experimental design and correlation of corrosion rate with various operating parameters, followed by analysis of variance of both five‐ and three‐parameter models. Notably, despite variations in temperature and salt concentration, the corrosion rate remained negligible, confirming its suitability in various marine conditions. Furthermore, it was observed that the corrosion rate of mild steel coated with epoxy decreased with the addition of UMCNO. A corrosion rate of 0.182 mpy was observed for epoxy resin incorporated with 0.5 % UMCNO over a 14‐day period, which is lower compared to other conditions. Electrochemical impedance spectroscopy and potentiodynamic polarization analysis showed higher corrosion‐resistant properties in epoxy coating incorporated with UMCNO. In addition, it was evident from the contact angle measurement that the corrosion rate of mild steel was highly dependent on the concentration of UMCNO.
“Mutually Doped” Conjugated Polyelectrolyte‐Polyoxometalate Complex as Hole Transporting Material for Efficient Organic Solar Cells
Authors: Xiang Yanhe , Feng Luxin , Wang He , Li Qingyang , Zhang Zhiguo , Yan Longjia , Xu Bowei , Hou Jianhui
Published: May 2024

Comprehensive Summary

Compared to electron transporting layer materials, the species and numbers of hole transporting layer (HTL) materials for organic solar cells (OSCs) are rare. The development of HTL materials with excellent hole collection ability and non‐corrosive nature is a long‐standing issue in the field of OSCs. Herein, we designed and synthesized a series of conjugated polyelectrolytes (CPEs) with continuously varied energy levels toward HTL materials for efficient OSCs. Through a “mutual doping” treatment, we obtained a CPE composite PCT‐F:POM with a WF of 5.48 eV and a conductivity of 1.56 х 10–3 S/m, meaning that a good hole collection ability can be expected for PCT‐F:POM. The OSC modified by PCT‐F:POM showed a high PCE of 18.0%, which was superior to the reference device with PEDOT:PSS. Moreover, the PCT‐F:POM‐based OSC could maintain 91% of the initial PCE value after storage of 20 d, meaning that the long‐term stability of OSCs is improved by incorporating the PCT‐F:POM HTL. In addition, PCT‐F:POM possesses good compatibility with large‐area processing technique; i.e., a PCT‐F:POM HTL was processed by the blade‐coating method for fabricating 1 cm2 OSC, and a PCE of 15.1% could be achieved. The results suggest the promising perspective of PCT‐F:POM in practical applications.
PROTOCOL: Abortion and mental health outcomes: A systematic review and meta‐analysis
Authors: Littell Julia H. , Young Sarah , Pigott Therese D. , Biggs M. Antonia , Munk‐Olsen Trine , Steinberg Julia R.
Published: May 2024

This is a protocol for a systematic review and meta‐analysis of research on mental health outcomes of abortion. Does abortion increase the risk of adverse mental health outcomes? That is the central question for this review. Our review aims to inform policy and practice by locating, critically appraising, and synthesizing empirical evidence on associations between abortion and subsequent mental health outcomes. Given the controversies surrounding this topic and the complex social, political, legal, and ideological contexts in which research and reviews on abortion are conducted, it is especially important to conduct this systematic review and meta‐analysis with comprehensive, rigorous, unbiased, and transparent methods. We will include a variety of study designs to enhance understanding of studies' methodological strengths and weaknesses and to identify potential explanations for conflicting results. We will follow open science principles, providing access to our methods, measures, and results, and making data available for re‐analysis.
Solar Cell Enhancement from Supercritical CO2 Dye Surface Modification of Mesoporous TiO2 Photoanodes
Authors: Maniam Subashani , Skidmore Melissa , Leeke Gary A. , Collis Gavin E.
Published: May 2024

In recent years, in an effort to reach Net Zero Emissions, there has been growing interest by various academic and industry communities to develop chemicals and industrial processes that are circular, sustainable and green. We report the rapid, simple and effective surface modification of a porous metal oxide with organic dyes using supercritical carbon dioxide (scCO2). Titanium dioxide (TiO2) photoanodes were coated in very short times, under mild conditions and the excess dye recovered afterwards for reuse. The process obviates the need for conventional toxic solvents, the generation of unwanted waste streams, and more importantly, we see an unexpected device performance enhancement of 212 and 163 % for TerCOOTMS, 2 a and TerCN/COOTBDMS, 4 dyes, respectively, when compared to the conventional solvent deposition method.
The use of antibiotics during pregnancy: A cross‐sectional study of knowledge, attitude, and practices among antenatal care attendees in Northern Ghana
Authors: Vicar Ezekiel K. , Walana Williams , Fordjour Rosemond A. , Benneh Christiana , Bentil Rosemond E. , Wuffelle Gifty M. , Osabutey Emmanuel K. , Nachinab Gilbert , Obeng‐Bempong Mauvina
Published: May 2024

Background and aims

The promotion of rational use of antibiotics among pregnant women is eminent not only for the risk of teratogenicity in the developing fetus but also the risk of drug resistance with its concomitant high cost of health care. Studies on antibiotic self‐medication among pregnant women in Northern Ghana are rare. Improving the knowledge and awareness among the vulnerable groups about the appropriate use of antibiotics can help in limiting the antibiotic resistance menace. We, therefore, conducted this study to assess the knowledge, attitude, and practice (KAP) toward antibiotic use among pregnant women attending an antenatal clinic at a primary health care in Tolon, Northern Region, Ghana.

Method

We conducted a cross‐sectional study using an interviewer‐administered questionnaire to assess the KAP of 702 pregnant women on antibiotic use. This study was conducted in the Tolon Health Center (THC) from March 2021 and ended in October 2021.

Results

In this study, 55.6% of pregnant women had good knowledge and 45.3% of them had engaged in self‐medication with antibiotics while pregnant. There were statistically significant associations between participants' background and obstetric characteristics and knowledge of antibiotic use and antibiotic resistance, except for age, marital status, and parity. Also, there was a significant association between pregnant women's knowledge and self‐medication or over‐the‐counter purchase of antibiotics.

Conclusion

We concluded that higher education level, monthly income, good practice, and good knowledge were significantly associated with a reduced likelihood of self‐medication with antibiotics. A well‐structured education that could be easily accepted and understood by pregnant women on the risks of antibiotic self‐medication should be included in the routine education at the antenatal clinics.
Green synthesis of silver nanoparticles using leaf extract of Woodfordia fruticosa (L.) for potential therapeutic application
Authors: Dubey Debasmita , Meher Rajesh Kumar , Pradhan Biswaranjan , Induar Sadhni , Kar Biswakanth , Naik Pradeep Kumar , Chandra Behera Bikash
Published: May 2024

BACKGROUND

Woodfordia fruticosa is a well‐known medicinal plant traditionally used for various treatment methods. Green synthesis of silver nanocomposite with woodfordia flower extract is well‐investigated. However, the therapeutic potential of Woodfordia fruticosa leaf extract silver nanoparticles against various diseases has yet to be investigated.

RESULTS

Silver nanoparticles synthesized from Woodfordia fruticosa leaf extract (Wf‐AgNPs) showed UV spectral peaks at 450 nm. Transmission electron microscope (TEM) images, ranging from 20 to 50 nm, confirm the nanosynthesis. The average particle size of 39.63 nm with a zeta potential distribution value 17.0 was observed. Fourier transform infrared peaks ranging from 2942to 669 cm−1 confirm the amines, amides, carboxylic, aldehyde, alkane, phenolic and aliphatic bromo compounds involved in the synthesis of AgNPs. Wf‐AgNPs showed higher antioxidant activity compared to the ascorbic acid and BHT. The phenolic and flavonoid content was 141.66 ± 8.50 mg GAE/100 g dry weight and 191.66 ± 5.6 mg quercetin equivalent/100 g dry weight, respectively. Wf‐AgNPs showed a strong inverse relationship between the dose and viability of the cancer cells. The antibacterial properties of Wf‐AgNPs were confirmed through the bacteria's SEM images. Increased wound healing potential, re‐epithelization and elevation of the tensile strength of the infected skin tissue were observed after applying synthesized Wf‐AgNPs.

CONCLUSION

Various phytochemicals in the synthesized nanoparticles confer antimicrobial, antioxidant, anticancer and wound‐curing potentiality to the Wf‐AgNPs. © 2024 Society of Chemical Industry (SCI).
Quantifying the retrieval uncertainties associated with systematic and random errors in multi‐satellite‐only precipitation estimates over the Chinese mainland
Authors: Shen Zhehui , Yong Bin , Wu Hao
Published: May 2024

Characterizing the uncertainties in retrieval, which include both systematic and random errors, of satellite‐derived precipitation products (SPPs) is crucial for the development of bias correction techniques aimed at enhancing the accuracy of precipitation retrieval algorithms. This study aimed to comprehensively and quantitatively analyse the retrieval uncertainties in various SPPs across different seasons, climate regions, precipitation rates, and elevations. Three satellite‐only SPPs from the Tropical Rainfall Measuring Mission (TRMM) and the Global Precipitation Measurement (GPM) mission, namely the TRMM Multi‐satellite Precipitation Analysis (TMPA‐rt) and the Integrated Multi‐satellite Retrievals for GPM (IMERG‐early and IMERG‐late), were tested at the daily scale from April 2014 to March 2018, benchmarked by ~2400 weather stations in China. In comparison to TMPA‐rt, both IMERG‐early and IMERG‐late exhibited reduced systematic errors across the majority of western China, particularly over the Tibetan Plateau during the summer. The percentages of systematic errors increased gradually with the rise in rainfall intensities and became predominant in all three SPPs beyond rain rates of 50 mm·day−1. Moreover, the systematic error ratios of IMERG products generally exhibited an upward trend with increasing elevation, whereas this feature is not significant in TMPA‐rt. In contrast to TMPA‐rt, the two IMERG‐based SPPs demonstrated much lower magnitudes of random errors in all climate regions over the Chinese mainland, although they did not exhibit a significant reduction in systematic errors. However, these two IMERG products still suffer from certain uncertainties in the mountainous regions of western China during winter, primarily stemming from deficiencies in the IMERG retrieval system in the snow/ice‐cover areas. In summary, it appears timely for this study to intercompare and quantify the systematic and random errors in mainstream SPPs from TRMM to GPM, providing insights for future algorithm upgrades and data generation.
Manometric findings in children with eosinophilic esophagitis and persistent post‐remission dysphagia
Authors: Yogev Dotan , Dorfman Lev , Mansi Sherief , El‐Chammas Khalil , Lyles John , Mukkada Vincent , Kaul Ajay
Published: May 2024

Objectives

Dysphagia is a frequent symptom of active eosinophilic esophagitis (EoE), but at times it persists despite attaining histologic healing and lack of fibro‐stenotic changes. We aimed to describe the manometric findings in this subset of patients.

Methods

A retrospective review of charts between 2013 and 2023 at a tertiary pediatric gastroenterology center, treating roughly 1500 EoE patients per year. We included children with EoE referred to high‐resolution impedance manometry (HRIM) for persistent dysphagia despite histologic healing (i.e., <15 eosinophils/high‐power field [Eos/hpf]). Data including initial EoE diagnosis, endoscopy reports, esophageal biopsies, treatment regimens, and HRIM were retrospectively collected.

Results

The estimated prevalence of post‐remission dysphagia in our cohort was exceedingly rare (<0.05%). Four patients met the eligibility criteria of histologic remission and absence of fibro‐stenotic features on endoscopic evaluation and thus, were included in this case series. Patients achieved remission with steroids, proton‐pump inhibitor, or both within a median time of 5 months from diagnosis. Peak Eosinophil count at remission was ≤5 Eos/hpf in three patients and ≤10 Eos/hpf in one. On HRIM, all four patients had a hypomotile esophagus and abnormal bolus clearance. Lower esophageal sphincter integrated relaxation pressure values were normal in three patients and elevated in one. Two patients were diagnosed with ineffective esophageal motility, one with aperistalsis and one with achalasia type 1.

Conclusions

Post‐remission dysphagia is rare in EoE. Esophageal dysmotility with a hypomotile pattern may contribute to the persistent dysphagia in children with EoE. HRIM should be considered in patients with EoE in whom symptoms persist despite histologic remission.
Occupational skin cancer screening: Results of a cross‐sectional study at the city drainage company Munich
Authors: Mayer K. E. , Schreier M. , Gross C. , Wasserer S. , Kranen K. , Wustrow P. , Biedermann T. , Zink A. , Persa O.‐D.
Published: May 2024

Background

Since skin cancer incidence and prevalence are rising steadily, the prevention of skin cancer has gained importance. People with high sun exposure at work are at special risk, and prevention measures by the employer may lower the risk, especially for keratinocyte carcinoma.

Objectives

The aim of the study was to evaluate the results of a large‐scale skin cancer screening campaign at the city drainage company Munich where the cohort consisted mainly of outdoor workers.

Methods

In 2023, a skin cancer screening campaign was conducted at the city drainage company Munich. Sun exposure and protection measures of each participant were assessed using a questionnaire. Dermatologists identified clinical signs for sun damage and skin cancer by whole‐body skin examination.

Results

A total of 290 participants (72.8% male; mean age 43.7 ± 11.5 years) were enroled. 36.6% showed clinical signs of sun damage correlating with male gender, higher age, and more hours spent outdoors per day. Clinical examination revealed a suspect finding of skin cancer, a preliminary stage, or a lesion requiring clinical control to avoid skin cancer development in 19.3% of participants. Participants with atypical melanocytic lesions were mostly female and showed a high skin cancer awareness. This was concluded from the fewer signs of sun damage, a higher percentage of previous screening participation, and more regular self‐examination.

Conclusions

Whole‐body examination for skin cancer screening at work is a valuable tool to encourage participation in this preventive measure. It may help identify people at risk either by clinical signs for sun damage or risk exposure which can be assessed with a simple questionnaire. Based on this result, the screening interval may be adopted individually.
Diffusion‐weighted MR spectroscopy of the prostate
Authors: Stamatelatou Angeliki , Rizzo Rudy , Simsek Kadir , van Asten Jack J A , Heerschap Arend , Scheenen Tom , Kreis Roland
Published: May 2024

Purpose

Prostate tissue has a complex microstructure, mainly composed of epithelial and stromal cells, and of extracellular (acinar‐luminal) spaces. Diffusion‐weighted MR spectroscopy (DW‐MRS) is ideally suited to explore complex microstructure in vivo with metabolites selectively distributed in different subspaces. To date, this technique has been applied to brain and muscle. This study presents the development and pioneering utilization of 1H‐DW‐MRS in the prostate, accompanied by in vitro studies to support interpretations of in vivo findings.

Methods

Nine healthy volunteers underwent a prostate MR examination (mean age, 56 years; range, 31–66). Metabolic complexation was studied in vitro using solutions with major compounds found in prostatic fluid of the lumen. DW‐MRS was performed at 3 T with a non–water‐suppressed single‐voxel sequence with metabolite‐cycling to concurrently measure metabolite and water signals. The water signal was used in postprocessing as a reference in a motion‐compensation scheme. The spectra were fitted simultaneously in the spectral and diffusion‐weighting dimensions. Apparent diffusion coefficients (ADCs) were derived by fitting signal decays that were assumed to be mono‐exponential for metabolites and biexponential for water.

Results

DW‐MRS of the prostate revealed relatively low ADCs for Cho and Cr compounds, aligning with their intracellular location and higher ADCs for citrate and spermine supporting their luminal origin. In vitro assessments of the ADCs of citrate and spermine demonstrated their complex formation and protein binding. Tissue concentrations of MRS‐detectable metabolites were as expected for the voxel location.

Conclusions

This work successfully demonstrates the feasibility of 1H‐DW‐MRS of the prostate and its potential for providing valuable microstructural information.
Digital reference object toolkit of breast DCE MRI for quantitative evaluation of image reconstruction and analysis methods
Authors: Bae Jonghyun , Tan Zhengguo , Solomon Eddy , Huang Zhengnan , Heacock Laura , Moy Linda , Knoll Florian , Kim Sungheon Gene
Published: May 2024

Purpose

To develop a digital reference object (DRO) toolkit to generate realistic breast DCE‐MRI data for quantitative assessment of image reconstruction and data analysis methods.

Methods

A simulation framework in a form of DRO toolkit has been developed using the ultrafast and conventional breast DCE‐MRI data of 53 women with malignant (n = 25) or benign (n = 28) lesions. We segmented five anatomical regions and performed pharmacokinetic analysis to determine the ranges of pharmacokinetic parameters for each segmented region. A database of the segmentations and their pharmacokinetic parameters is included in the DRO toolkit that can generate a large number of realistic breast DCE‐MRI data. We provide two potential examples for our DRO toolkit: assessing the accuracy of an image reconstruction method using undersampled simulated radial k‐space data and assessing the impact of the field inhomogeneity on estimated parameters.

Results

The estimated pharmacokinetic parameters for each region showed agreement with previously reported values. For the assessment of the reconstruction method, it was found that the temporal regularization resulted in significant underestimation of estimated parameters by up to 57% and 10% with the weighting factor λ = 0.1 and 0.01, respectively. We also demonstrated that spatial discrepancy of and increase to about 33% and 51% without correction for field.

Conclusion

We have developed a DRO toolkit that includes realistic morphology of tumor lesions along with the expected pharmacokinetic parameter ranges. This simulation framework can generate many images for quantitative assessment of DCE‐MRI reconstruction and analysis methods.
Surgical and clinical determinants of postoperative Hirschsprung‐associated enterocolitis: Multivariate analysis in a large cohort
Authors: Wang Guoyong , Gao Kai , Zhang Rensen , Liu Qianyang , Kang Cailong , Guo Chunbao
Published: May 2024

This research meticulously explores the diverse factors influencing the occurrence of Hirschsprung‐associated enterocolitis (HAEC) subsequent to surgical interventions for congenital megacolon. Considering that Hirschsprung's Disease (HSCR) management predominantly necessitates excision of the aganglionic intestinal segment, the study specifically delineates the correlation between the extent of the excised intestinal segment and the HAEC risk post‐surgery. An analysis of clinical data from 505 patients spanning 2012–2022 enabled a comparison of clinical attributes between patients with and without postoperative HAEC, the application of statistical analyses to identify factors significantly correlating with HAEC, and the determination of independent risk factors via a Logistic regression model. Findings indicate a significant association between preoperative conditions, HSCR variants, and the excised intestinal segment's length with HAEC risk, identifying resection length and albumin levels as independent risk factors. Notably, an increase in resection length by 1 cm correlates with a 9.8% rise in postoperative HAEC risk, whereas a 1 g/L elevation in albumin levels corresponds to a 5.6% risk reduction. Subgroup analyses reaffirm that, across all HSCR variants, an extended resection length significantly elevates HAEC risk. This study underscores the critical roles of albumin levels and the length of the resected intestinal segment as independent risk factors for HAEC post‐congenital megacolon surgery, providing essential insights for clinical strategies aimed at mitigating HAEC risk and enhancing patient care outcomes.
Mental health consequences of academic stress, amotivation, and coaching experience: A study of India's top engineering undergraduates
Authors: Maji Sucharita , Chaturmohta Ansh , Deevela Diveesha , Sinha Samridhi , Tarsolia Shruti , Barsaiya Aryan
Published: May 2024

The growing number of suicide cases in India's top engineering institutions indicates a mental health emergency. Deteriorated mental health status of engineering students has been a major concern for social scientists, policymakers, educationists, and parents. Nevertheless, not much academic research has addressed this issue. The current study aims to explore the anteceding factors associated with mental health crises among engineering students. This study relies on a sequential exploratory mixed‐method design. In the first phase, 16 undergraduate students were interviewed to explore the anteceding factors that deteriorate their mental health status. Based on the qualitative findings, we developed a hypothesized model. In the second phase, this model is tested through a quantitative study (N = 395). Inductive thematic analysis of the qualitative interviews revealed that students' mental health status (stress and guilt‐related symptoms) was associated with (a) centrality of engineering identity, (b) parental pressure, (c) academic stress during the coaching period and college years, (d) upward social comparison, and (e) motivation‐related factors (intrinsic motivation, extrinsic motivation, and academic amotivation). Based on this finding, a model is developed that connects academic amotivation, intrinsic/extrinsic motivation, academic stress, and the mental health status of the students. The quantitative study results indicated that academic amotivation significantly mediates the relationship between academic stress and mental health status. Moreover, male engineering students score significantly higher in mental health status and significantly lower in extrinsic motivation‐identified than female students. The study concludes that academic stress is a key issue in determining amotivation and deteriorated mental health status of engineering undergraduates.
Transboundary migration of Loxostege sticticalis (Lepidoptera: Crambidae) among China, Russia and Mongolia
Authors: Huang Shao‐zhe , Zhang Lei , Xie Dian‐jie , Tang Ji‐hong , Jiang Yu‐ying , Mijidsuren Byambasuren , Baasan Munkhtsetseg , Luo Li‐zhi , Jiang Xing‐fu
Published: May 2024

BACKGROUND

The beet webworm, Loxostege sticticalis, a worldwide pest of many crops, performs a seasonal migration, causing periodic outbreaks in Asia, Europe and North America. Although long‐distance migration is well documented in China, patterns of transboundary migration among China, Russia and Mongolia are largely unknown. We performed a phase analysis of L. sticticalis periodic outbreaks among three countries based on 30 years of historical population data, analyzed the wind systems during migration over boundary regions, and traced the migratory routes in a case study of outbreaks in 2008 by trajectory simulation.

RESULTS

Highly synchronized outbreak years of L. sticticalis were observed between China and Mongolia, China and eastern Siberia, China and western Siberia, Mongolia and eastern Siberia, eastern Siberia and western Siberia from 1978 to 2008, indicating possible transboundary migration between these regions. Winds at 300–600 m altitude, where adult migration usually occurs, also showed a high probability of northwestern winds in Haila'er (China), Chita (Russia) and Choybalsan (Mongolia), favoring successful adult migration from these areas to northern and northeastern China. Back trajectory analysis further showed that the first‐generation adults that caused the severe outbreak of second‐generation larvae in 2008 originated from eastern Siberia, eastern Mongolia, and the boundary regions of China–Russia and China–Mongolia.

CONCLUSION

Our findings demonstrated that the source of L. sticticalis outbreaks in northern China was closely related to the outbreaks in Siberia and Mongolia via long‐distance transboundary windborne migration. This information will help guide international monitoring and management strategies against this notorious pest. © 2024 Society of Chemical Industry.
Theoretical study on the differences in donor‐acceptor interaction and electron transition mechanism in Pd(II) and Pt(II) complexes
Authors: Chang Yu , Hang Xiao‐Chun , Zhang Cong
Published: May 2024

The relativistic effect enhances spin‐orbit coupling (SOC), making metal complexes potential candidates for phosphorescent OLED emitters. However, the relativistic effect profoundly influences the donor and acceptor interactions (D‐A), resulting in unique electron transition processes. By stabilizing the s orbitals and destabilizing the d orbitals of the center metal atom, the relativistic effect enhances donation, back donation, and the trans effect in PtN1N more than in PdN1N. Particularly, the back donation in PtN1N is approximately four times greater than that in PdN1N, contributing to the greater stability and rigidity in PtN1N. Furthermore, the relativistic effect enhances the SOC and reduces the excitation energy and stabilizes the excited states of PtN1N. Consequently, the radiative decay rate and non‐radiative rate are accelerated simultaneously. The reverse intersystem crossing rate in PdN1N is accelerated by high temperature, which is responsible for thermally activated delayed fluorescence (TADF).
Glandular papilloma in lung parenchyma
Authors: Zhang Minlong , Guo Yinghua , Yang Cuiping
Published: May 2024

Solitary respiratory papilloma is a rare epithelial tumour that can be categorized into multiple subtypes. The glandular type (Glandular papilloma, GP) is the rarest. Most GP occurs in the proximal airways and is only rarely found in the lung parenchyma. In this article, we reported a case of GP in lung parenchyma.
Disturbance observer–based finite‐time fault tolerant control of quadrotor unmanned aerial vehicles with command filtered and event‐triggered techniques
Authors: Sun Yue , Gai Yulin , Chen Ming , Wang Huanqing , Peng Kaixiang , Wu Libing
Published: May 2024

This article primarily focuses on the finite‐time fault‐tolerant tracking control problem of quadrotor unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV) systems. Our main innovation points are: (1) A simple cubic form of Lyapunov function is applied to the design of the position ring controller of the quadrotor UAV; (2) The command filtering technology effectively solves the challenge of derivation of complex coupling matrixs in the controller design process; (3) An improved disturbance observer and a variable threshold event‐triggered mechanism are applied in the Quadrotor UAV system. In summary, the overall approach combines the backstepping method and finite‐time Lyapunov stability to prove the finite‐time stability of all the signals in the system. Finally, the effectiveness and rationality of the algorithm are verified through simulation experiments and its application on an actual simulation platform.
Efficient Charge Separation in Ag/PCN/UPDI Ternary Heterojunction for Optimized Photothermal‐Photocatalytic Performance via Tandem Electric Fields
Authors: Xiao Yawei , Wang Zhezhe , Li Mengyao , Liu Qian , Liu Xijun , Wang Yude
Published: May 2024

Charge separation driven by the internal electric field is a research hotspot in photocatalysis. However, it remains challenging to accurately control the electric field to continuously accelerate the charge transfer. Herein, a strategy of constructing a tandem electric field to continuously accelerate charge transfer in photocatalysts is proposed. The plasma electric field, interface electric field, and intramolecular electric field are integrated into the Ag/g‐C3N4/urea perylene imide (Ag/PCN/UPDI) ternary heterojunction to achieve faster charge separation and longer carrier lifetime. The triple electric fields function as three accelerators on the charge transport path, promoting the separation of electron–hole pairs, accelerating charge transfer, enhancing light absorption, and increasing the concentration of energetic electrons on the catalyst. The H2 evolution rate of Ag/PCN/UPDI is 16.8 times higher than that of pristine PDI, while the degradation rate of oxytetracycline is increased by 4.5 times. This new strategy will provide a groundbreaking idea for the development of high‐efficiency photocatalysts.
Unlocking Enhanced Electrochemical Performance of MBene‐MoB Through Controlled Aluminum Dissipation from MoAlB
Authors: Wei Shudan , Kale Girish , Lai Xiaojun
Published: May 2024

2D transition metal borides, known as MBenes, have attracted considerable attention due to their exceptional properties. This study explores the feasibility of aluminum (Al) etching from MoAlB using environmentally friendly and sustainable fluoride‐free dilute acidic/alkaline solutions at room temperature, revealing its thermodynamic and kinetic viability. Furthermore, it is found that complete removal of Al can be achieved in dilute alkaline reagent under hydrothermal conditions, yielding pristine single/few‐layered MBene‐MoB for the first time, while acidic solutions result in ≈33% etching rates. XRD refinement, which tracks aluminum removal from 0% to 100%, reveals transient metastable phases of MoAl1‐xB (x < 0.5) in the initial etching stages, evolving into relatively stable pure Mo2AlB2 structures with 50% Al deficiency, serving as a precursor to MBenes. The subsequent loss of Al results in a 2D MBene‐MoB structure. DFT calculations confirm excellent conductivity for MoAlB, MoAl1−xB (x = 0–1), and MBene‐MoB. Remarkably, MBene‐MoB exhibits superior supercapacitor performance with a 4025.60 mF cm−2/201.28 F g−1 capacitance. Simulations validate rapid electrolyte diffusion in layered MBene‐MoB, contributing significantly to enhanced capacitance. Additionally, in the hydrogen evolution reaction (HER), MBene‐MoB demonstrates superior catalytic activity compared to the precursor MoAlB and commercial MoB. Calculations suggest the potential for enhancing HER through surface modulation, considering its suboptimal hydrogen adsorption energy.
MnFe Prussian Blue Analogue Open Cages for Sodium‐Ion Batteries: Simultaneous Evolution of Structure, Morphology, and Energy Storage Properties
Authors: Wang Weilu , Xing Zheng , Ren Haipeng , Wang Qinglin , Gao Xinran , Nie Chuanhao , Ju Zhicheng
Published: May 2024

Prussian blue analogues (PBAs) exhibiting hollow morphologies have garnered considerable attention owing to their remarkable electrochemical properties. In this study, a one‐pot strategy is proposed for the synthesis of MnFe PBA open cages. The materials are subsequently employed as cathode electrode in sodium‐ion batteries (SIBs). The simultaneous evolution of structure, morphology, and performance during the synthesis process is investigated. The findings reveal substantial structural modifications as the reaction time is prolonged. The manganese content in the samples diminishes considerably, while the potassium content experiences an increase. This compositional variation is accompanied by a significant change in the spin state of the transition metal ions. These structural transformations trigger the occurrence of the Kirkendall effect and Oswald ripening, culminating in a profound alteration of the morphology of MnFe PBA. Moreover, the shifts in spin states give rise to distinct changes in their charge–discharge profiles and redox potentials. Furthermore, an exploration of the formation conditions of the samples and their variations before and after cycling is conducted. This study offers valuable insights into the intricate relationship between the structure, morphology, and electrochemical performance of MnFe PBA, paving the way for further optimizations in this promising class of materials for energy storage applications.
Behavioral Modeling and Digital Predistortion for Power Amplifier Based on the Sparse Smooth Twin Support Vector Regression Method
Authors: Xu Changzhi , Su Min , Jia Songlin , Wang Xiaoyu , Ning Jinzhi , Li Mingyu
Published: May 2024

In this paper, a sparse smooth twin support vector regression (Sparse‐STSVR) model for power amplifier (PA) behavioral modeling is obtained by pruning the kernel matrix based on Cholesky decomposition. Based on the primal smooth twin support vector regression (STSVR) model, the Nystrom approximate matrix of the kernel matrix is found to replace the original kernel matrix, thus simplifying the Newton iterative parameter extraction process of the primal STSVR model and accelerating the convergence of the algorithm. In addition, the new rank approximation kernel matrix has the characteristic of sparse parameters, which further reduces the computational complexity of the feedforward link of the digital predistorter. The 100 MHz 5G New Radio (NR) signal is used for verify the effect of PA modeling and digital predistortion (DPD) experiment. The results show that the proposed method can improve the normalized mean square error (NMSE) by about 2 ~ 3 dB with fewer coefficients compared with the previously proposed machine learning model, and the predistortion linearization effect improves by nearly 3 dB on the adjacent channel power ratio (ACPR), which achieves a good trade‐off between model performance and computational complexity. © 2024 Institute of Electrical Engineers of Japan and Wiley Periodicals LLC.
Development and evaluation of Fusarium wilt‐resistant and high‐yielding chickpea advanced breeding line, KCD 11
Authors: Laxuman C. , Naik Yogesh Dashrath , Desai B. K. , Kenganal Mallikarjun , Patil Bharat , Reddy B. S. , Patil D. H. , Chakurte Sidramappa , Kuchanur P. H. , K Shiva Kumar , Gaddi Ashok Kumar , Yogesh L. N. , Nidagundi Jayaprakash , Dodamani B. M. , Sunkad Gururaj , Thudi Mahendar , Varshney Rajeev K.
Published: May 2024

Fusarium wilt (FW) is the most severe soil‐borne disease of chickpea that causes yield losses up to 100%. To improve FW resistance in JG 11, a high‐yielding variety that became susceptible to FW, we used WR 315 as the donor parent and followed the pedigree breeding method. Based on disease resistance and yield performance, four lines were evaluated in station trials during 2017–2018 and 2018–2019 at Kalaburagi, India. Further, two lines, namely, Kalaburagi chickpea desi 5 (KCD 5) and KCD 11, which possesses the resistance allele for a specific single‐nucleotide polymorphism marker linked with FW resistance, were evaluated across six different locations (Bidar, Kalaburagi, Raichur, Siruguppa, Bhimarayanagudi and Hagari) over a span of 3 years (2020–2021, 2021–2022 and 2022–2023). KCD 11 exhibited notable performance, showcasing yield advantages of 8.67%, 11.26% and 23.88% over JG 11, and the regional checks Super Annigeri 1 (SA 1) and Annigeri 1, respectively, with enhanced FW resistance in wilt sick plot. Further, KCD 11 outperformed JG 11, SA 1 and Annigeri 1 in multi‐location trials conducted across three seasons in the North Eastern Transition Zone, North Eastern Dry Zone, and North Dry Zones of Karnataka. KCD 11 was also tested in trials conducted by All India Coordinated Research Project on chickpea and was also nominated for state varietal trials for its release as a FW‐resistant and high‐yielding variety. The selected line is anticipated to cater the needs of chickpea growers with the dual advantage of yield increment and disease resistance.
Could this year's problems impact next year?
Authors: D’Orio Wayne
Published: May 2024

Just when college officials thought the news about FAFSA couldn’t get any worse, a speaker at this year's American Association of Collegiate Registrars and Admissions Officers hinted that the Education Department's problems may continue into next year.
Disclosures 14: Do you have to keep records of disclosures? Two instances
Authors: Rainsberger Richard
Published: May 2024

Last month, we took a look at FERPA's recordkeeping requirements when we make a disclosure of education records. Those requirements are found at 34 CFR §99.32. It is clear from §99.32 that you do not have to make a record of every education record disclosure we make. This recordkeeping requirement depends on (1) why the education records are to be disclosed (the legitimate interest) and (2) to whom the disclosure is made.
What did Open Doors 2023 reveal about international students?
Authors: Dennis Marguerite J.
Published: May 2024

Since 1948 the Institute of International Education, in collaboration with the United States’ Bureau of Educational and Cultural Affairs, has been gathering data and publishing statistics on the number of international students enrolling in American colleges and universities, their countries of origin, and the number of Americans students studying abroad. This is a definitive survey of international and U.S. higher education student mobility.
Design of 20 MW direct‐drive permanent magnet synchronous generators for wind turbines based on constrained many‐objective optimization
Authors: Jung Seok‐Won , Kang Dohyun , Palanimuthu Kumarasamy , Joo Young Hoon , Jung Sang‐Yong
Published: May 2024

This study introduces a constrained many‐objective optimization approach for the optimal design of 20 MW direct drive (DD) permanent magnet synchronous generators (PMSGs). Designing a high‐performance, competitive DD‐PMSG requires considering the generator's performance as well as its weight and material cost. Therefore, we focus on four main characteristics as our design objectives: (1) specific power (power per weight), (2) power‐per‐cost, (3) efficiency, and (4) power factor. To achieve this, we apply an advanced constrained nondominated sorting genetic algorithm III (NSGA‐III), a many‐objective optimization method utilizing evolutionary computation, capable of optimizing four or more objectives with constraints. Additionally, the electromagnetic finite element method is employed to evaluate the generator's characteristics. Through our proposed design process, we optimize three distinct 20 MW DD‐PMSG configurations: a 320‐pole/300‐slot, a 350‐pole/300‐slot, and a 350‐pole/336‐slot topology. Following this optimization, we perform additional multiphysics simulations (covering electromagnetic, structural, overload, and thermal aspects) and control response simulations on four selected models from the Pareto‐optimal solutions to validate their effectiveness as preliminary DD‐PMSG designs. Finally, we conduct a comprehensive analysis of all simulation results.
Radiative transitions in charmonium from lattice QCD
Authors: Delaney James , Thomas Christopher E. , Ryan Sinéad M. ,   for the Hadron Spectrum collaboration
Published: May 2024

Abstract

The coupling of various charmonium mesons to a photon is studied using lattice QCD, giving access to radiative form factors and transitions, and probing the mesons’ structure. Methods are developed which allow the robust determination of amplitudes, including those involving an excited state as well as multiple form factors, for a range of kinematics. These are applied in dynamical lattice QCD calculations using the distillation technique to compute the underlying three-point correlation functions. Form factors and amplitudes involving the low-lying charmonia, ηc, J/ψ, χc0 and $$ {\eta}_c^{\prime } $$

η
c
′

, are calculated, demonstrating the methods and providing the first dynamical lattice QCD results for some quantities.
Holographic Carrollian conformal scalars
Authors: Bekaert Xavier , Campoleoni Andrea , Pekar Simon
Published: May 2024

Abstract

We provide holographic realisations in Minkowski spacetime of a free conformal Carrollian scalar field living at null infinity. To this end, we first show that the electric and magnetic limits of a relativistic conformal scalar are equivalent and we study the representation of the Carroll, Poincaré and BMS algebras that is realised on the resulting solution space. We then realise it as a quotient of the solution space of a free massless scalar in Minkowski spacetime with unusual falloff, in full analogy with the interpretation of Dirac’s singleton as a shortened scalar in Anti de Sitter spacetime.
Realization of Permutation Modules via Alexandroff Spaces
Authors: Costoya Cristina , Gomes Rafael , Viruel Antonio
Published: May 2024

We raise the question of the realizability of permutation modules in the context of Kahn’s realizability problem for abstract groups and the G-Moore space problem. Specifically, given a finite group G, we consider a collection $$\{M_i\}_{i=1}^n$$

{

M
i

}

i
=
1

n

of finitely generated $$\mathbb {Z}G$$

Z
G

-modules that admit a submodule decomposition on which G acts by permuting the summands. Then we prove the existence of connected finite spaces X that realize each $$M_i$$

M
i

as its i-th homology, G as its group of self-homotopy equivalences $$\mathcal {E}(X)$$

E
(
X
)

, and the action of G on each $$M_i$$

M
i

as the action of $$\mathcal {E}(X)$$

E
(
X
)

on $$H_i(X; \mathbb {Z})$$

H
i

(
X
;
Z
)

.
Arithmetic Varieties of Numerical Semigroups
Authors: Branco Manuel B. , Ojeda Ignacio , Rosales José Carlos
Published: May 2024

In this paper we present the notion of arithmetic variety for numerical semigroups. We study various aspects related to these varieties such as the smallest arithmetic that contains a set of numerical semigroups and we exhibit the rooted tree associated with an arithmetic variety. This tree is not locally finite; however, if the Frobenius number is fixed, the tree has finitely many nodes and algorithms can be developed. All algorithms provided in this article include their (non-debugged) implementation in GAP.
Automatic quantification of REM sleep without atonia reliably identifies patients with REM sleep behavior disorder: a possible screening tool?
Authors: Mancini Raffaele , Mattioli Pietro , Famà Francesco , Giorgetti Laura , Calizzano Francesco , Nikolic Miki , Frandsen Rune , Jennum Poul , Morbelli Silvia , Pardini Matteo , Arnaldi Dario
Published: May 2024

Background

REM Sleep Behavior Disorder (RBD) is characterized by absence of physiological muscle atonia during REM sleep (REM sleep without atonia, RWA). Nigro-striatal dopaminergic impairment is a feature of Parkinson disease (PD) and can be identified in prodromal stages as well, such as idiopathic RBD (iRBD). Aims of this study are to explore the efficacy of an automatic RWA quantification in identifying RBD patients and the correlation between RWA and nigro-striatal dopaminergic function.

Methods

Forty-five iRBD, 46 PD with RBD, 24 PD without RBD patients and 11 healthy controls were enrolled in the Genoa Center (group A) and 25 patients with iRBD (group B) were enrolled in the Danish Center. Group A underwent brain [123I]FP-CIT-SPECT and group B underwent brain [18F]PE2I-PET as measures of nigro-striatal dopaminergic function. Chin muscle activity was recorded in all subjects and analyzed by applying a published automatic algorithm. Correlations between RWA and nigro-striatal dopaminergic function were explored.

Results

The automatic quantification of RWA significantly differentiated RBD from non-RBD subjects (AUC = 0.86), although with lower accuracy compared with conventional visual scoring (AUC = 0.99). No significant correlation was found between RWA and nigro-striatal dopaminergic function.

Conclusion

The automatic quantification of RWA is a reliable tool to identify subjects with RBD and may be used as a first-line screening tool, but without correlations with nigro-striatal dopaminergic functioning.
Environmentally friendly and energy-self-sufficiency-based air purifier: an approach for mitigating outdoor particulate matter
Authors: Szramowiat-Sala Katarzyna , Goryl Wojciech , Figaj Rafał , Filipowicz Mariusz , Sornek Krzysztof , Zyśk Janusz
Published: May 2024

The impact of indoor and ambient air pollution on human health is significant, with ambient air pollutants contributing to millions of deaths annually. Particulate matter (PM), a prevalent pollutant in ambient and indoor air, consists of solid and liquid particles suspended in a gaseous atmosphere. The formation of PM is primarily attributed to incomplete combustion of fossil fuels. Air pollution carries health, environmental and economic effects. To address these challenges, nations worldwide are obligated to develop policies aimed at safeguarding air quality, protecting human health, biodiversity and ecosystems. Long-term environmental interventions have been mandated by international agreements to eliminate pollutant emissions, while short-term interventions are recommended for immediate outcomes. While numerous devices are available to mitigate indoor air pollutants, limited pre-commercial methods exist for improving ambient air quality. In this paper, we propose a novel approach to ambient air purification system that utilizes renewable energy sources and achieves energy self-sufficiency. The effectiveness of this newly developed air purifier in controlling outdoor particulate pollution was investigated, providing insights into its potential to mitigate the health and economic impacts associated with PM exposure. A comparative analysis of percentage and mass values for various parameters measured upstream and downstream of the air purifier enabled an initial assessment of the filter’s effectiveness in removing impurities and was assesses at the level of 74%. A noticeable decrease in mass values was observed for all analysed components of PM, with the exception of nitric ions. Moreover, it was found out that the tested filter demonstrates greater efficacy in removing inorganic PM components compared to organic chemicals.

Graphical abstract