bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Observations on the display flights of male Brown Songlarks (Cincloramphus cruralis Vigors and Horsfield 1827) before and after the application of fenitrothion, an organophosphorous pesticide for locust control, in a semi-arid grassland in south-western New South Wales and suggestions for further research
Authors: Story Paul , Maute Kimberly
Published: February 2023

Exposure of songbirds to organophosphorous pesticides has been shown to affect a range of behavioural characteristics including singing, displaying and flying that consequently can have significant impacts on the viability of free-living individuals and populations. In the current study, display flights of male Brown Songlarks (Cincloramphus cruralis Vigors and Horsfield 1827) before and after the application of fenitrothion (O,O-dimethyl-O-[3-methyl-4-nitrophenyl]-phosphorothioate) during locust spray operations around Conargo, south western New South Wales, were monitored incidentally for number, duration and the presence of song during flight. The duration of display flights undertaken by male C. cruralis showed a statistically significant increase after exposure to fenitrothion (t0.05, 398 = 1.97; p = 0.0085, analysed using log10 transformed flight duration data), despite the mean number of flights undertaken decreasing from 5.7 pre-spray to 4.7 post-spray during 10 min survey periods. The proportion of display flights in which the male was calling, however, did not differ between pesticide-exposed and unexposed male C. cruralis (χ2(0.05, 1) = 0.323; p = 0.570). To better understand the impacts of pesticide exposure on C. cruralis behaviour and ecology, the observations presented here require further study and validation with the addition of other variables such as territory mapping, assessment of reproductive success and the quantification of enzymatic biomarkers indicative of exposure to organophosphorous insecticides, undertaken concomitantly.
FORMULATION AND EVALUATION OF HERBAL CREAM
Authors: Bhat Vishnu , Shayima Fathima , KA Fathima Suhera , Farzana Naseeha
Published: February 2023

The aim of the present study was to formulate and evaluate the herbal cream having properties of moistening, nourishing, anti-acne and antiinflammatory effect on the skin using different crude drugs like Azadirachta indica (Neem), Aloe barbadensis (Aloe Vera), Ocimum tenuiflorum (Tulsi). The cream was prepared by using the cream base i.e. bee’s wax, liquid paraffin, borax, methyl paraben, distilled water, rose oil, Aloe Vera gel, aqueous extract of neem and tulsi. The cream was prepared by homogeneous mixing of all the excipients and the herbal extract. By using this method, we have prepared six batches F1, F2, F3, F4, F5, and F6. Formulations were evaluated for different parameters like physical evaluation, irritancy study observation, wash ability, spread ability, PH, Viscosity, phase separation, greasiness observations, dye test, homogeneity, acid value, saponification value. All the six formulations F1, F2, F3, F4, F5, and F6 showed good appearance, PH, adequate viscosity and no phase separation was observed. All the six formulations F1, F2, F3, F4, F5, and F6 were stable and can be safely use on the skin.
Assessment of Information and Communication Technologies Awareness Level among Secondary School Students in Delta State, Nigeria
Authors: Lugard Imene Akpoguma
Published: February 2023

The major purpose of this study is the assessment of ICTs awareness level among senior secondary school students, Ethiope East Local Government Area in Delta State. The study made effort to examine the assessment of ICTs awareness level among senior secondary school students, based on the statement of problems, five research questions were raised and answered. The study adopted a survey oriented method design. The sample for the study consists of 119 respondents selected from 24 secondary schools in Ethiope East Local Government Area, Delta State. The responses of the 20 items questionnaire developed were analysed through the simple percentage, mean and chi-square. The findings from the analysis shows that lack of ICTs/computer laboratory in senior secondary schools do not affect the awareness level of ICTs among senior secondary school students, second findings revealed that lack of student access to ICTs in senior secondary schools do not affect the awareness level of ICTs among senior secondary schools students, the third finding revealed that inadequate ICTs facilities/equipments in senior secondary school do not affect the awareness level of ICTs among senior secondary school students. Furthermore, the fourth finding revealed that students perceive ineffectiveness of ICTs for learning in senior secondary school do not affect the awareness level of ICTs among senior secondary school students. The fifth and final finding revealed that factors hindering teacher’s readiness and confidence of using ICTs in senior secondary schools do not affect the awareness level of ICTs among senior secondary school students. Based on the findings, it was recommended that adequate ICTs instructional teaching aid should be provided in the senior secondary school. Teachers should try to introduce to the senior secondary students the current trend in ICTs education. At that level training and retraining of secondary school teachers on the use of ICTs should be encouraged by government. This research is a product of recent survey carried out by the research hence the findings reported here are original and reflect the current views of assessment of ICTs awareness level among senior secondary students in Delta State.
Population Dynamics of Bactrocera zonata (Saunders) (Diptera: Tephretidae) on Mangifera indica (L.) (Anacardiaceae) and Correlation with Weather Parameters
Authors: Jena M. K. , Patel S. R. , Mohapatra B.
Published: February 2023

The population dynamics of fruit fly Bactrocera zonata Saunders (Diptera: Tephritidae) was carried out by installing "Nauroji-Stonehouse Fruit Fly Trap" in the mango orchard of organic farm, Navsari Agricultural University, Navsari, Gujarat, India during the period 2021-22. The population of B. zonata prevailed throughout the year in mango orchard with its peak activity from 14th SMW to 31st SMW which coincided with the fruiting and harvesting period of fruits. The population was maximum in 27th SMW and minimum during second SMW. The population decreased from August to January. There was a significant positive correlation of population of B. zonata with maximum temperature (r=0.33), minimum temperature (r=0.83), average temperature (r=0.77), evening relative humidity (r=0.50), average relative humidity (r=0.41), rainy days (r=0.38), rainfall (r=0.37) and wind velocity (0.66). However, there was a nonsignificant correlation of population of B. zonata with morning relative humidity and duration of bright sunshine hours.
A Study of Value Chain Map & Economics of Papaya in Karnataka State
Authors: Reddy S. Vijayachandra , Beeraladinni Devendra , Kumar Manoj
Published: February 2023

The present study has attempted a detailed analysis of papaya fruit by studying its value chain map, establishment cost, cost and returns were important researchable issue for the said crop in kalaburagi district in Karnataka State. The findings reveal that, in value chain, farmers, pre-contactors, distributors, wholesalers and retailers will perform muti-task function in the system. Each of these stakeholders appends value during the movement of produce from one person to other in the consumption pattern system. The findings related to cost and returns, the year-wise analysis indicated that in the first year, the total cost for establishment was found to be Rs. 85225 in Papaya plantation followed by second year Rs.65432. The average of two years will be to the tune of Rs.65432 per acre. The per acre establishment cost accounted to Rs. 85225 of which the material cost constituted 78.37 percent to the total cost of establishment followed by human labour (19.64 per cent).  The per acre cost of cultivation of Papaya was worked out to be Rs.65432, out of which the total variable cost share was Rs.45643 (69.75 percent) and total fixed cost was found to be Rs.19789 (30.25 per cent) to the total cost. total average cost for two years incurred in cultivation was found to be Rs.105328 and farmers obtain average net income of Rs.218247 per acre and the findings also revealed that the farmers the return on per rupee invested at total cost amounted to Rs.2.26 and 1.90 during first and second year respectively.
The Effect of the Number of Entangled Photons on the Number of Coincidences Rate, Bell’s Inequality and the Error Rate by the Delphi Program
Authors: Mustafa SIB. , Almuslet Nafie A. , Osman Zienb K. , Abdeelh Tarig H. , Haroun KH. M.
Published: February 2023

Quantum cryptography is a science that relies on the use of a protocol designed to exploit quantum mechanical phenomena to achieve the secrecy of cryptographic keys. This work aimed to generate a quantum key based on polarization-entangled photon pairs; to eliminate the error by implementing the BB89 protocol using the Delphi language program in order to obtain a high degree of security. The results explain the effect of the number of EPR photons pair running from (500-10000) photons on the number of coincidences, expected error and Bell's parameter discussed as; Total coincidences of the Bell – CHSH increases with increasing of EPR pairs, and values were stable when EPR pairs were increased, there was a small random change in the expected error rate (in case of no eavesdropping).This study concludes thatTotal coincidences of the Bell and expected error are affected by the number of entangled photons.The increasing of the length of key must increase the number of EPR and decrease the Error and Bell's value must be stable.
A Method for Creating Global Routes for Unmanned Ground Vehicles Using Open Data Road Section Data
Authors: Yun Seungjae , Won Munchul
Published: February 2023

In this paper, we propose a method for generating a global path for an unmanned vehicle using public data of road section information. First, the method of analyzing road section information of the Ministry of Land, Infrastructure and Transport is presented. Second, we propose a method of preprocessing the acquired road section information and processing it into meaningful data that can be used for global routes. Third, we present a method for generating a global path using the preprocessed road section information. The proposed method has proven its effectiveness through actual autonomous driving experiments of unmanned ground vehicles.
LOS Stabilization Controller Design of EOTS and Performance Prediction Using Disturbance Model
Authors: Kim Hongwon , Han Solyi , Jang Jungwoong , Song Kibeom
Published: February 2023

The EOTS(Electro Optical Tracking System) must have stabilization performance to provide high-quality images under disturbance environment. In this paper, we present a controller that can minimize the LOS error and has a simple structure. Hence, to evaluate the performance of this controller, analysis in the frequency domain and LOS error measurement are performed. In order to measure the LOS error without a ‘rate table’ that requires a lot of facility investment, we propose a design method for disturbance model that considers the operating environment of the EOTS. Finally, the performance of the stabilization algorithm is evaluated by the proposed disturbance model.
A Reconfigurable Integration Test and Simulation Bed for Engagement Control Using Virtualization
Authors: Cho Kilseok , Jeong Ohkyun , Yoon Moonhyung
Published: February 2023

Modeling and Simulation(M&S) technology has been widely used to solve constraints such as time, space, safety, and cost when we implement the same development and test environments as real warfare environments to develop, test, and evaluate weapon systems for the last several decades. The integration and test environments employed for development and test & evaluation are required to provide Live Virtual Construction(LVC) simulation environments for carrying out requirement analysis, design, integration, test and verification. Additionally, they are needed to provide computing environments which are possible to reconfigure computing resources and software components easily according to test configuration changes, and to run legacy software components independently on specific hardware and software environments. In this paper, an Integration Test and Simulation for Engagement Control(ITSEC) bed using a bare-metal virtualization mechanism is proposed to meet the above test and simulation requirements, and it is applied and implemented for an air missile defense system. The engagement simulation experiment results conducted on air and missile defense environments demonstrate that the proposed bed is a sufficiently cost-effective and feasible solution to reconfigure and expand application software and computing resources in accordance with various integration and test environments.
Patterns of Postpartum Primary Care Follow-up and Diabetes-Related Care After Diagnosis of Gestational Diabetes
Authors: D’Amico Rachel , Dalmacy Djhenne , Akinduro Jenifer A. , Hyer Madison , Thung Stephen , Mao Shengyi , Fareed Naleef , Bose-Brill Seuli
Published: February 2023

Importance

Gestational diabetes (GD) affects up to 10% of pregnancies and increases lifetime risk of type 2 diabetes 10-fold; postpartum diabetes evaluation and primary care follow-up are critical in preventing and detecting type 2 diabetes. Despite clinical guidelines recommending universal follow-up, little remains known about how often individuals with GD access primary care and type 2 diabetes screening.

Objective

To describe patterns of primary care follow-up and diabetes-related care among individuals with and without GD in the first year post partum.

Design, Setting, and Participants

This cohort study used a private insurance claims database to compare follow-up in the first year post partum between individuals with GD, type 2 diabetes, and no diabetes diagnosis. Participants included postpartum individuals aged 15 to 51 years who delivered between 2015 and 2018 and had continuous enrollment from 180 days before to 366 days after the delivery date. Data were analyzed September through October 2021 and reanalyzed November 2022.

Main Outcomes and Measures

Primary care follow-up visits and diabetes-related care (blood glucose testing and diabetes-associated visit diagnoses) were determined by evaluation and management, Current Procedural Terminology, and International Classification of Diseases, Ninth Revision and International Statistical Classification of Diseases and Related Health Problems, Tenth Revision codes, respectively.

Results

A total of 280 131 individuals were identified between 2015 and 2018 (mean age: 31 years; 95% CI, 27-34 years); 12 242 (4.4%) had preexisting type 2 diabetes and 18 432 (6.6%) had GD. A total of 50.9% (95% CI, 49.9%-52.0%) of individuals with GD had primary care follow-up, compared with 67.2% (95% CI, 66.2%-68.2%) of individuals with preexisting type 2 diabetes. A total of 36.2% (95% CI, 35.1%-37.4%) of individuals with GD had diabetes-related care compared with 56.9% (95% CI, 55.7%-58.0%) of individuals with preexisting diabetes. Only 36.0% (95% CI, 34.4%-37.6%) of individuals with GD connected with primary care received clinical guideline concordant care with blood glucose testing 12 weeks post partum.

Conclusions and Relevance

In this cohort study of postpartum individuals, individuals with GD had lower rates of primary care and diabetes-related care compared with those with preexisting type 2 diabetes, and only 36% of those with GD received guideline-recommended blood glucose testing in the first 12 weeks post partum. This illustrates a missed opportunity for early intervention in diabetes surveillance and prevention and demonstrates the need to develop a multidisciplinary approach for postpartum follow-up.
Modifiable Risk Factor Score and Fecundability in a Preconception Cohort in Singapore
Authors: Loy See Ling , Ku Chee Wai , Tiong Michelle Mei Ying , Ng Carissa Shi Tong , Cheung Yin Bun , Godfrey Keith M. , Lim Shan Xuan , Colega Marjorelee T. , Lai Jun Shi , Chong Yap-Seng , Shek Lynette Pei-Chi , Tan Kok Hian , Chan Shiao-Yng , Chong Mary Foong-Fong , Yap Fabian , Chan Jerry Kok Yen
Published: February 2023

Importance

Although multiple modifiable risk factors have been identified for reduced fecundability (defined as lower probability of conception within a menstrual cycle), no scoring system has been established to systematically evaluate fecundability among females who are attempting to conceive.

Objective

To examine the association of a risk score based on 6 modifiable factors with fecundability, and to estimate the percentage reduction in incidence of nonconception if all study participants achieved a minimal risk score level.

Design, Setting, and Participants

This population-based cohort study obtained data from the S-PRESTO (Singapore Preconception Study of Long-Term Maternal and Child Outcomes) prospective cohort study. Females of reproductive age who were trying to conceive were enrolled from February 2015 to October 2017 and followed for 1 year, ending in November 2018. Data were analyzed from March to May 2022.

Exposures

A reduced fecundability risk score was derived by giving participants 1 point for each of the following factors: unhealthy body mass index, unhealthy diet, smoking, alcohol intake, folic acid supplement nonuser, and older maternal age. Total scores ranged from 0 to 6 and were classified into 5 levels: level 1 (score of 0 or 1), level 2 (score of 2), level 3 (score of 3), level 4 (score of 4), and level 5 (score of 5 or 6).

Main Outcomes and Measures

Fecundability, measured by time to conception in cycles, was analyzed using discrete-time proportional hazards models with confounder adjustment.

Results

A total of 937 females (mean [SD] age, 30.8 [3.8] years) were included, among whom 401 (42.8%) spontaneously conceived within 1 year of attempting conception; the median (IQR) number of cycles before conception was 4 (2-7). Compared with participants with a level 1 risk score, those with level 2, 3, 4, and 5 risk scores had reductions in fecundability of 31% (adjusted fecundability ratio [FR], 0.69; 95% CI, 0.54-0.88), 41% (FR, 0.59; 95% CI, 0.45-0.78), 54% (FR, 0.46; 95% CI, 0.31-0.69) and 77% (FR, 0.23; 95% CI, 0.07-0.73), respectively. Assessment of the population attributable fraction showed that all participants achieving a minimal (level 1) risk level would be associated with a reduction of 34% (95% CI, 30%-39%) in nonconception within a year.

Conclusions and Relevance

Results of this study revealed the co-occurrence of multiple modifiable risk factors for lowered fecundability and a substantially higher conception rate among participants with no or minimal risk factors. The risk assessment scoring system proposed is a simple and potentially useful public health tool for mitigating risks and guiding those who are trying to conceive.
Magnetic Resonance Imaging Features of GABA-A Receptor Antibody-Mediated Encephalitis
Authors: Baqal Omar , Vanood Aimen , Harahsheh Ehab
Published: February 2023

This case report describes a patient with status epilepticus and neuroimaging features of fleeting T2 fluid-attenuated inversion recovery hyperintense lesions on magnetic resonance imaging.
Preparation and Properties of Self‐Setting Calcium Phosphate Scaffolds: Effect of Pore Architecture
Authors: Qian Guowen , Fan Peirong , Yang Liming , Ye Jiandong
Published: February 2023

Self‐setting calcium phosphate cement (CPC) scaffold with interconnected macropores is hard to prepare without compromising its hydration reaction. Herein, an indirect 3D printing method is using to prepare CPC scaffolds. Detailedly, polycaprolactone (PCL)‐sacrificed models with different strut sizes are first printed by 3D plotting technique, and then the CPC pastes are perfused into the PCL models and then self‐setting. After the removal of the PCL models, the CPC scaffolds with different pore sizes are obtained. It is showed in the results that the prepared CPC scaffolds had uniform shape and 3D interconnected macropore structure. Meanwhile, the compressive strength of CPC scaffolds all meets the requirements of repairing cancellous bone. More interestingly, the CPC scaffold with about 300 μm in macropore size is more conducive to the ingrowth and osteogenesis differentiation of mouse bone marrow mesenchymal stem cells. As a whole, the indirect 3D printing method is a promising strategy for preparing CPC scaffolds, which are hard to form directly by 3D printing technique.
Flexible Transient Bioelectronic System Enables Multifunctional Active‐Controlled Drug Delivery
Authors: Liu Shuaiyin , Jia Zhenzhen , Yang Fenghe , Ning Tianqin , Gu Xuenan , Niu Xufeng , Fan Yubo
Published: February 2023

On‐demand drug delivery systems (DDSs) have tremendous promise for clinical in vivo personalized drug delivery. However, the current DDSs are monofunctional and unable to meet the individualized needs of patients. Herein, a biodegradable multifunctional active‐controlled drug delivery system (ADDS) is reported. The device can be implanted in various tissues with valves controlled by the deactivation of magnesium (Mg) for rapid drug release from drug reservoirs and long‐term drug delivery with the biodegradation of the ADDS. Multiple chambers are constructed by designing a structure with tandem Mg valves and aligning them in the z‐axis direction, allowing the system to deliver drugs in a pulsatile or sequential manner. The biodegradability of the entire system minimizes the potential side effects of the ADDS. The application of the device for drug delivery in rats confirmed its ability to perform pulsatile delivery in vivo. The excellent biocompatibility and dual timeline drug delivery capability of this system are demonstrated with cellular and in vitro vascular bioreactors. This multifunctional ADDS will play an important role in precise drug delivery in the treatment of chronic diseases and diseases with complications.
Programmable Jigsaw Puzzles of Soft Materials Enabled by Pixelated Holographic Surface Reliefs
Authors: Wang Yifei , Yuan Cong‐Long , Huang Wenbin , Sun Pei‐Zhi , Liu Binghui , Hu Hong‐Long , Zheng Zhigang , Lu Yan‐Qing , Li Quan
Published: February 2023

Manual intervention in the self‐organization of soft matter to obtain a desired superstructure is a complex but significant project. Specifically, optical components made fully or partially from reconfigurable and stimuli‐responsive soft materials, referred to as soft photonics, are poised to form versatile platforms in various areas; however, a limited scale, narrow spectral adaptability, and poor stability are still formidable challenges. Herein, a facile way is developed to program the optical jigsaw puzzle of nematic liquid crystals via pixelated holographic surface reliefs, leading to an era of manufacturing for programmable soft materials with tailored functions. Multiscale jigsaw puzzles are established and endowed with unprecedented stability and durability, further sketching a prospective framework toward customized adaptive photonic architectures. This work demonstrates a reliable and efficient approach for directly assembling soft matter, unlocking the long‐sought full potential of stimuli‐responsive soft systems, and providing opportunities to inspire the next generation of soft photonics and relevant areas.
Community organizing during the COVID‐19 pandemic: How should we act when it comes to minority communities?
Authors: Nouman Hani
Published: February 2023

Minority communities have borne a disproportionate burden of adverse health outcomes during the COVID‐19 pandemic. Notwithstanding, there is a lack of empirical evidence regarding efforts to reduce health inequalities through community organizing. It is also unclear under what conditions professionals act as external assistance providers for community organizing as part of their role. Through multimethod research conducted among social workers who provide services to ultra‐Orthodox minority communities in Israel during the pandemic, this study identified that the combination of critical awareness of social justice, weakened social cohesion, and work environment expectations led professionals to assist communities in their community organizing efforts. These strategies include an intercommunity component—building trust in the community and promoting collective efficacy; an interactional component—creating multidimensional platforms that support action; and a behavioral component—increasing the involvement of communities in decision‐making spaces in public arenas. The crucial characteristic of providing assistance and support in community organizing lies in the adoption of cultural perspectives. It requires knowledge about and familiarity with the different types of communities within which the professionals operate. This vital understanding can promote critical awareness among a wide range of professionals to promote health equity at the present time when the pandemic is still ongoing.
Tailorable and Biocompatible Supramolecular‐Based Hydrogels Featuring two Dynamic Covalent Chemistries
Authors: Marić Ivana , Yang Liangliang , Li Xiufeng , Santiago Guillermo Monreal , Pappas Charalampos G. , Qiu Xinkai , Dijksman Joshua A. , Mikhailov Kirill , van Rijn Patrick , Otto Sijbren
Published: February 2023

Dynamic covalent chemistry (DCC) has proven to be a valuable tool in creating fascinating molecules, structures, and emergent properties in fully synthetic systems. Here we report a system that uses two dynamic covalent bonds in tandem, namely disulfides and hydrazones, for the formation of hydrogels containing biologically relevant ligands. The reversibility of disulfide bonds allows fiber formation upon oxidation of dithiol‐peptide building block, while the reaction between NH−NH2 functionalized C‐terminus and aldehyde cross‐linkers results in a gel. The same bond‐forming reaction was exploited for the “decoration” of the supramolecular assemblies by cell‐adhesion‐promoting sequences (RGD and LDV). Fast triggered gelation, cytocompatibility and ability to “on‐demand” chemically customize fibrillar scaffold offer potential for applying these systems as a bioactive platform for cell culture and tissue engineering.
Pulsed Electrocatalysis Enabling High Overall Nitrogen Fixation Performance for Atomically Dispersed Fe on TiO2
Authors: Guo Mingxia , Fang Long , Zhang Linlin , Li Mingzhu , Cong Meiyu , Guan Xiping , Shi Chuanwei , Gu ChunLei , Liu Xia , Wang Yong , Ding Xin
Published: February 2023

Atomically dispersed Fe was designed on TiO2and explored as a Janus electrocatalyst for both nitrogen oxidation reaction (NOR) and nitrogen reduction reaction (NRR) in a two‐electrode system. Pulsed electrochemical catalysis (PE) was firstly involved to inhibit the competitive hydrogen evolution reaction (HER) and oxygen evolution reaction (OER). Excitingly, an unanticipated yield of 7055.81 μmol h−1 g−1cat.and 12 868.33 μmol h−1 g−1cat.were obtained for NOR and NRR at 3.5 V, respectively, 44.94 times and 7.8 times increase in FE than the conventional constant voltage electrocatalytic method. Experiments and density functional theory (DFT) calculations revealed that the single‐atom Fe could stabilize the oxygen vacancy, lower the energy barrier for the vital rupture of N≡N, and result in enhanced N2fixation performance. More importantly, PE could effectively enhance the N2supply by reducing competitive O2and H2agglomeration, inhibit the electrocatalytic by‐product formation for longstanding *OOH and *H intermediates, and promote the non‐electrocatalytic process of N2activation.
Improved covulcanization and dynamic properties of millable polyurethane elastomer/natural rubber blends: Thermal pretreatment
Authors: Cen Lan , Du Binghua , Lv Guozheng
Published: February 2023

Millable polyurethane elastomer (MPU) with polytetramethylene etherglycol as the soft segment, 4,4′‐diphenylmethane diisocyanate extended with 3‐Allyloxy‐1,2‐propanediol as the hard segment, was synthesized. The vulcanization characteristic showed that MPU compounds and natural rubber (NR) compounds presented a mismatch in curing rates under the accelerator‐sulfur vulcanization system, with the former showing slower curing rates than the latter regardless of the curing temperature. A feasible thermal pretreatment process was thus used to modify the MPU compounds. The IR spectra showed that the peak intensity ratios of 1460–1600 cm−1 increased with increasing pretreated time, indicating the enhanced reactivity of the pretreated compounds (PMPU). Vulcanization kinetic results further confirmed that the pretreatment process facilitated the curing reaction, as the activation energies of the PMPU compounds were all reduced during the induction period, with the lowest value obtained for the sample pretreated for 2 min (PMPU2). PMPU2 was subsequently mixed with NR in various ratios and compared with the corresponding MPU/NR blend. Here improved covulcanization characteristics were observed for the PMPU/NR blends, which exhibited faster cure rates and higher crosslink density. In addition, higher mechanical properties were presented for these pretreated blends, with the tensile strength of PMPU2/NR vulcanizates increasing by 57.3%, 153.7%, and 49.1% when the blend ratios were 75/25, 50/50, and 25/75, respectively. In particular, the 75/25 PMPU/NR vulcanizate had excellent abrasion resistance comparable to MPU. The dynamic compression performance of the pretreated blends was also improved, with fatigue life and temperature rise increasing by 119.1% and decreasing by 40.5%, respectively, for the 75/25 PMPU2/NR vulcanizate relative to the reference MPU/NR. The DMA data showed that the blend vulcanizates exhibited lower tanδ at 60°C compared with the MPU vulcanizate, and this value was further reduced for the pretreated blend, which has obvious environmental significance in terms of reduced energy consumption.
Identification and Characterization of the Isomeric Impurity of the Fungicide “Cyazofamid”
Authors: Kannoujia Jyoti , Nagineni Devendra , Rodda Ramesh , Chilukuri Ramesh , Babu Nanubolu Jagadeesh , Akshinthala Parameswari , Yarasi Soujanya , Kantevari Srinivas , Sripadi Prabhakar
Published: February 2023

Identification and characterization of biproducts/ impurities present in agrochemicals are critical in view of their efficacy and safety towards public health. We herein present our study on identification and characterization of an impurity, 5‐chloro‐2‐cyano‐N,N‐dimethyl‐4‐p‐tolylimidazole‐1‐sulfonamide (2) present in the fungicide, “cyazofamid”. Intermittent HPLC analysis of the reaction of substituted imidazole (1) with N,N‐dimethylsulfamoyl chloride suggested that 2 is formed during the reaction. Isolation by preparative HPLC and characterization by NMR, LC/HRMS, MS/MS and single crystal XRD analysis confirmed 2 as an isomer of cyazofamid, wherein the N,N‐dimethyl sulfonamide group was positioned on the other nitrogen of imidazole in close proximity to chloride group. Computational studies further supported the formation of 2 and ruled out the other possible isomeric structures.
Computational Study of Mechanisms and Tether Length Effects of Rh‐Catalyzed [3+2] and [3+2+1] Reactions of Ene/Yne‐Vinylcyclopropanes
Authors: Zhang Guan‐Yu , Lin Mu , Yu Zhi‐Xiang
Published: February 2023

DFT calculations have been applied to study the mechanisms of [3+2] and [3+2+1] reactions of ene/yne‐vinylcyclopropanes (shorted as ene/yne‐VCPs). The [3+2] reactions of ene/yne‐VCPs start from C−C cleavage of cyclopropane (CP cleavage) to form six‐membered rhodacycle, followed by alkene/alkyne insertion and reductive elimination. The [3+2+1] reactions have two competing pathways, one is the [3+2+1] pathway (CP cleavage, ene/yne insertion, CO insertion and reductive elimination) and the other is the [3+1+2] pathway (CP cleavage, CO insertion, ene/yne insertion and reductive elimination). The length of tether in substrates affects the ene/yne insertion steps in these cycloadditions, making some reactions fail or changing the reaction pathways. The reasons for these tether length effects are discussed.
A control strategy for variable‐speed variable‐pitch wind turbines within the regions of partial‐ and full‐load operation without wind speed feedback
Authors: Corradini Maria Letizia , Ippoliti Gianluca , Orlando Giuseppe
Published: February 2023

In this paper, the control of a variable‐speed variable‐pitch wind turbine in the whole wind speed range is addressed, without any feedback measurement of wind speed. In addition to an aerodynamic torque observer able to ensure the tracking of the maximum delivered power in the partial‐load region, a novel wind speed observer is proposed for power regulation in the full‐load region, along with a sliding surface ensuring finite‐time set‐point stabilization of the speed tracking error. The proposed control solution has been validated on the National Renewable Energy Laboratory 5‐MW three‐blade wind turbine model using the recognized high‐fidelity simulation tool FAST.
Production and application of purified mutanase from novel Cellulosimicrobium funkei SNG1 in the in vitro biofilm degradation
Authors: Boddapati Sirisha , Gummadi Sathyanaryana N.
Published: February 2023

Mutanase (α‐1,3‐glucanase) is an inducible extracellular enzyme with potential medical applications in dentistry. A novel Cellulosimicrobium funkei strain SNG1 producing mutanase enzyme using α‐1,3‐glucans was isolated, and the enzyme was optimized for increased productivity using the one‐factor‐at‐a‐time approach. Maximum growth and enzyme‐specific activity (2.12 ± 0.4 U/mg) were attained in a production medium with pH 7.0 and 1% α‐1,3‐glucans as carbon source, incubated at 37°C for 30 h. The result showed a five‐fold increase in activity compared to unoptimized conditions (0.40 U/mg). The enzyme was purified by gel‐filtration chromatography, and recovered with a yield of 29.03% and a specific activity increase of 10.9‐fold. The molecular mass of the monomeric enzyme is 137 kDa. The pH and temperature optima are 6.0 and 45°C with Km of 1.28 ± 0.11 mg for α‐1,3‐glucans. The enzyme activity was stimulated by adding Co2+, Ca2+, Cu2+, and was entirely inhibited by Hg2+. On 2‐h incubation, the purified enzyme effectively degraded in vitro film with an 82.68% degradation rate and a saccharification yield of 30%.
In‐situ U‐Wert‐Messung – Teil 1: Vergleich von Verfahren und Einflüsse in Heizkammerversuchen
Authors: Anders Steffen , Iravani Ahmad , Hoffmann Caroline , Geissler Achim , Voss Karsten
Published: February 2023

U‐Wert‐Messungen vor Ort eigenen sich für opake Bauteile unbekannter Konstruktion, bei denen eine zerstörungsfreie Aussage zu den thermischen Eigenschaften, z. B. für Sanierungsmaßnahmen erforderlich ist. In‐situ U‐Wert‐Messungen sind Gegenstand zweier abgeschlossener Forschungsprojekte aus Deutschland und der Schweiz. Im vorliegenden Teil 1 werden die Ergebnisse des Projektes „LivingLab – Gebäudeperformance” an der Bergischen Universität Wuppertal vorgestellt. Ziel dieses Teilprojektes ist, Einflüsse auf in‐situ U‐Wert‐Messverfahren für Mauerwerkskonstruktionen in einem Heizkammerverfahren unter kontrollierten Bedingungen herauszuarbeiten. Es kann gezeigt werden, dass bei Wärmeflussverfahren mit langer Messdauer die Größe der Platten und ihre Positionierung in Bezug auf ein Fugenraster keine messbaren Unterschiede ergeben. Bei ungedämmten Konstruktionen werden mit diesem Verfahren tendenziell geringere U‐Werte, bei gedämmten Konstruktionen höhere U‐Werte gemessen als bei bekanntem Materialaufbau berechnet. Vergleichend werden Kurzzeitmessungen mit der sog. „Rapid U‐Value‐Messtechnik (Rapid‐U)” durchgeführt. Es zeigen sich größere Streuungen der Ergebnisse und höhere U‐Werte als beim Wärmeflussverfahren. In Teil 2 wird ein Forschungsprojekt aus der Schweiz vorgestellt, in dessen Rahmen eine praxisorientierte Anwendungshilfe für in‐situ U‐Wert‐Messungen erstellt wird. Als Basis dienen In‐situ‐Messungen mit drei unterschiedlichen Geräten und vergleichende Labormessungen.
S100A6 participates in initiation of autoimmune encephalitis and is under epigenetic control
Authors: Lin Chih‐Hsiang , Li Sung‐Chou , Lin Ming‐Hong , Ho Chen‐Jui , Lu Yan‐Ting , Lin Yuyu , Lin Pei‐Hsien , Tsai Kuo‐Wang , Tsai Meng‐Han
Published: February 2023

Introduction

Autoimmune encephalitis (AE) is caused by autoantibodies attacking neuronal cell surface antigens and/or synaptic antigens. We previously demonstrated that S100A6 was hypomethylated in patients with AE and that it promoted B lymphocyte infiltration through the simulated blood–brain barrier (BBB). In this study, we focused on the epigenetic regulation of S100A6, the process by which S100A6 affects B lymphocyte infiltration, and the therapeutic potential of S100A6 antibodies.

Methods

We enrolled and collected serum from 10 patients with AE and 10 healthy control (HC) subjects. Promoter methylation and 5‐azacytidine treatment assays were conducted to observe the methylation process of S100A6. The effect of S100A6 on B lymphocytes was analyzed using an adhesion assay and leukocyte transendothelial migration (LTEM) assay. A LTEM assay was also used to compare the effects of the serum of HCs, serum of AE patients, S100A6 recombinant protein, and S100A6 antibodies on B lymphocytes.

Result

The promoter methylation and 5‐azacytidine treatment assays confirmed that S100A6 was regulated by DNA methylation. The adhesion study demonstrated that the addition of S100A6 enhanced adhesion between B lymphocytes and a BBB endothelial cell line in a concentration‐dependent manner. The LTEM assay showed that the serum of AE patients, as well as S100A6, promoted B lymphocyte infiltration and that this effect could be attenuated by S100A6 antibodies.

Conclusion

We clarified that S100A6 was under epigenetic regulation in patients with AE and that it helped B lymphocytes to adhere to and infiltrate the BBB endothelial layer, which could be counteracted by S100A6 antibodies. Therefore, the methylation profile of S100A6 could be a marker of the activity of AE, and countering the effect of S100A6 may be a potential treatment target for AE.
Non‐invasive treatment of ischemia/reperfusion injury: Effective transmission of therapeutic near‐infrared light into the human brain through soft skin‐conforming silicone waveguides
Authors: Morse Paul T. , Tuck Samuel , Kerns Mike , Goebel Dennis J. , Wan Junmei , Waddell Tom , Wider Joseph M. , Hüttemann Charlotte L. , Malek Moh H. , Lee Icksoo , Sanderson Thomas H. , Hüttemann Maik
Published: February 2023

Noninvasive delivery of near‐infrared light (IRL) to human tissues has been researched as a treatment for several acute and chronic disease conditions. We recently showed that use of specific IRL wavelengths, which inhibit the mitochondrial enzyme cytochrome c oxidase (COX), leads to robust neuroprotection in animal models of focal and global brain ischemia/reperfusion injury. These life‐threatening conditions can be caused by an ischemic stroke or cardiac arrest, respectively, two leading causes of death. To translate IRL therapy into the clinic an effective technology must be developed that allows efficient delivery of IRL to the brain while addressing potential safety concerns. Here, we introduce IRL delivery waveguides (IDWs) which meet these demands. We employ a low‐durometer silicone that comfortably conforms to the shape of the head, avoiding pressure points. Furthermore, instead of using focal IRL delivery points via fiberoptic cables, lasers, or light‐emitting diodes, the distribution of the IRL across the entire area of the IDW allows uniform IRL delivery through the skin and into the brain, preventing “hot spots” and thus skin burns. The IRL delivery waveguides have unique design features, including optimized IRL extraction step numbers and angles and a protective housing. The design can be scaled to fit various treatment areas, providing a novel IRL delivery interface platform. Using fresh (unfixed) human cadavers and isolated cadaver tissues, we tested transmission of IRL via IDWs in comparison to laser beam application with fiberoptic cables. Using the same IRL output energies IDWs performed superior in comparison to the fiberoptic delivery, leading to an up to 95% and 81% increased IRL transmission for 750 and 940 nm IRL, respectively, analyzed at a depth of 4 cm into the human head. We discuss the unique safety features and potential further improvements of the IDWs for future clinical implementation.
Photocatalytic Oxygen Transfer as an Innovative Route for N2O Upgrading**
Authors: Delaunay Oriane , Zghab Eya , Denicourt‐Nowicki Audrey , Roucoux Alain
Published: February 2023

As concentration of nitrous oxide (N2O) keeps growing steeply in the atmosphere, upgrading this anthropogenic greenhouse gas as a potential oxygen transfer agent constitutes a real challenge to limit global warming and ozone layer depletion. Decomposition of N2O is mainly described under highly energy‐consuming thermal activation, owing to its high stability and large activation barrier, making it kinetically inert. Herein, we demonstrate the controlled photocatalytic upgrading of N2O as an oxygen atom donor, releasing only dinitrogen (N2) as a benign co‐product. The doped Ag@TiO2 photocatalyst specifically activates N2O for controlled oxidation of phosphines avoiding mineralization, under mild conditions (room temperature, 1 atm, λ=365 nm), as a proof‐of‐concept of the valorization of N2O as an oxygen transfer agent. The catalytic system is active and selective in various organic solvents, as well as innovatively in water, depending on the phosphine structure.
Building cultural empathy and deconstructing Whiteness in counselor education
Authors: Bayne Hannah B. , Ocampo Robert , Wilson Tawanda
Published: February 2023

Counselor training that does not attend to dynamics of cultural differences and oppression can run the risk of promoting false empathy that serves the voyeuristic purpose of the counselor rather than achieving accurate empathy for the client. In this article, we discuss the differences between true and false empathy and how Whiteness, racial identity and culture, and classroom dynamics can impact the ability to engage in cultural empathy development. We present a model for cultural empathy training that attends to each of these dynamics.
Effect of Pollutant Species on the Performance of Chelating Membranes for Wastewater Treatment
Authors: Xing Miao , Zhang Wenwen , Liu Yuanfa , Guo Jing , Yu Yue
Published: February 2023

A chelating membrane was fabricated to simultaneously remove metal ions and proteins from simulated wastewater. For a mixture consisting of a single ion and protein, the chelating membrane exhibited overall good separation performance (except for Cd2+), with both ion removal and protein rejection surpassing 90 %. The removal of metal ions highly depends on the chelation of amidoxime groups with ions rather than the complexation of proteins with ions. An increase in the content of metal ions has a detrimental impact on the protein rejection efficiency owing to the damaging effect of heavy metals on the protein. Similarly, increasing the amount of protein adversely affects the removal of ions due to the weakened chelation of amidoxime groups with metal ions.
Impact of Curved‐Blade Impellers on Gas Holdup and Liquid Homogenization Dynamics in Stirred Tanks
Authors: Žák Adrián , Moucha Tomáš , Paglianti Alessandro , Montante Giuseppina
Published: February 2023

Design and optimization of aerobic fermentation processes in stirred tanks must factor in specific features, such as the formation of gas cavities on the rear of impeller blades and the need for high power input. Here, the ability of a curved‐blade impeller to reduce these drawbacks, which are typical of flat‐blade impellers, is investigated. The analysis is based on gas holdup distributions and liquid homogenization dynamics collected by electrical resistance tomography in a pilot‐scale stirred tank of geometry similar to typical industrial aerated fermenters. A wide range of gas flow rates and impeller speeds in single‐impeller and multiple‐impeller configurations are considered and the differences arising when a Rushton turbine is replaced with a Bakker turbine are discussed.
Sauberes und günstiges Trinkwasser für eine ganze Region
Authors: Caravita Sandro
Published: February 2023

Im belgischen Ostende hat Veolia Water Technologies eine Anlage zur Trinkwassergewinnung errichtet. In einem mehrstufigen Filtrationsprozess produziert der dortige Wasserversorger nun Trinkwasser aus Abwasser. An entscheidenden Stellen des Prozesses – bei der Umkehrosmose, der Filtrierung mit Aktivkohle und der Remineralisierung des Wassers – übernehmen Gleitschieberventile die Regelung von Druck und Durchfluss.
Walnussschalen für sauberes Wasser
Authors: Vranitzky Robert
Published: February 2023

Moderne Anlagen zur Aufbereitung von Lagerstättenwasser nutzen Walnussschalen für eine effiziente und umweltbewusste Wasseraufbereitung. Für ein Ölfeld in Kashagan, Kasachstan, wurde nun ein dritter Ölzug mit einer zusätzlichen Funktionsverbesserung zur Aufbereitung des Abwasser ausgestattet. Der Gesamtanlagenbauer kann nun erfolgreich sein Projekt zur Erweiterung der Aufbereitungsanlage von Lagerstättenwasser für das Ölfeld Kashagan in Kasachstan abschließen. In der Anlage wird das stark salzhaltige Lagerstättenwasser von Ölrückständen gereinigt, um eine weitere Entsorgung innerhalb wichtiger Umweltgrenzen zu ermöglichen.
Werkzeuge für die Dekarbonisierung
Authors: Pauly Christoph P.
Published: February 2023

Ob bewährte alkalische Elektrolyse (AEL) oder zukünftiger Anionenaustauschmembran‐Elektrolyseur (AEM), die Anforderungen an Werkstoffe in der Wasserstofftechnologie sind aufgrund der hohen Temperaturen beträchtlich. Hier werden Komponenten benötigt, die robust, zuverlässig und sich genau auf den Prozess abstimmen lassen. Nur so werden ein hoher Wirkungsgrad und höchstmögliche Sicherheit erreicht.
MTP auf dem Weg in die Produktion
Authors: Bittorf Lukas , Klose Anselm , Pelzer Florian , Haller Axel , Schmitt Daniel , Kehl Alexander , Fink Andreas , Winterbauer Hansjürgen
Published: February 2023

NAMUR, PNO, ProcessNet, VDMA und ZVEI haben im vergangenen Jahr den herstellerunabhängigen Schnittstellenstandard Module Type Package (MTP) anhand von realen Anwendungsfällen vorgestellt. Was technisch möglich ist und wie das flexible Konzept weitergedacht wird, hat der ProcessNet Demonstrator aus dem Arbeitsausschuss modulare Anlagen (AA‐MODA) gezeigt. Was es jetzt braucht, sind Aufträge von Anwendern an die Entwickler.
Global system for cancer drug testing and approval is needed
Authors: Nierengarten Mary Beth
Published: February 2023

This news section offers Cancer readers timely information on events, public policy analysis, topical issues, and personalities. In this issue, physicians make a case for the value of creating a global system for cancer drug testing and approval. In addition, a new study shows that regular physical activity may help patients with colorectal cancer by maintaining a healthy gut microbiome, and accelerated approval was granted for targeted therapy for platinum‐resistant gynecologic cancers.
Ring‐polymer Molecular Dynamics Simulation for the Adsorption of H2 on Ice Clusters (H2O)n (n=8, 10, and 12)
Authors: Murakami Tatsuhiro , Ogino Kanon , Hashimoto Yu , Takayanagi Toshiyuki
Published: February 2023

In the interstellar medium, the H2 adsorption and desorption on the solid water ice are crucial for chemical and physical processes. We have recently investigated the probabilities of H2 sticking on the (H2O)8 ice, which has quadrilateral surfaces. We have extended the previous work using classical MD and ring‐polymer molecular dynamics (RPMD) simulations to the larger ice clusters, (H2O)10 and (H2O)12, which have pentagonal and hexagonal surfaces, respectively. The H2 sticking probabilities decreased as the temperature increased for both cluster cases, whereas the cluster‐size‐independent profiles were observed. It is thought that the size independence of the probabilities is qualitatively understood from the similar binding energies for all the three cluster systems. Furthermore, the RPMD sticking probabilities are smaller than the classical ones because of the reduction in the binding energies owing to nuclear quantum effects, such as vibrational quantization.