bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Convergent synthesis of carbonic anhydrase inhibiting bi‐heterocyclic benzamides: Structure–activity relationship and mechanistic explorations through enzyme inhibition, kinetics, and computational studies
Authors: Khan Farhan M. , Abbasi Muhammad A. , Aziz‐ur‐Rehman  , Siddiqui Sabahat Z. , Sadiq Butt Abdul R. , Raza Hussain , Zafar Ayesha , Ali Shah Syed A. , Shahid Muhammad , Seo Sung‐Yum
Published: February 2021

By using a convergent methodology, a novel series ofN‐arylated 4‐yl‐benzamides containing a bi‐heterocyclic thiazole–triazole core was synthesized, and the structures of these hybrid molecules,9a–k, were corroborated through spectral analyses. The in vitro studies of these multifunctional molecules demonstrated their potent carbonic anhydrase inhibition relative to the standard used. The kinetics mechanism was exposed by Lineweaver–Burk plots, which revealed that9jinhibited carbonic anhydrase non‐competitively by forming an enzyme‐inhibitor complex. The inhibition constants Kicalculated from Dixon plots for this compound was 1.2 μM. The computational study was also persuasive with the experimental results, and these molecules disclosed good results of all scoring functions and interactions, which suggested a good binding to carbonic anhydrase. So, it was predicted from the inferred results that these molecules might be considered as promising medicinal scaffolds for various diseases related to the uncontrolled production of this enzyme.
Effect of pre‐frying on distribution of protons and physicochemical qualities of mackerel
Authors: Zhang Wei , Cheng Shasha , Wang Siqi , Yi Kuan , Sun Shan , Lin Junxin , Tan Mingqian , Li Dongmei
Published: February 2021

BACKGROUND

In this work, low‐field nuclear magnetic resonance (LF‐NMR) and magnetic resonance imaging were used to investigate the changes in protons (from water and oil) distribution of mackerel during the frying process. The relationship between proton migration and some physicochemical indexes was established by partial least squares regression (PLSR). The changing mechanism of the quality characteristics and physicochemical properties of fish meat under different frying conditions was analysed by LF‐NMR combined with PLSR, which provided theoretical support for the development of canned mackerel food.

RESULTS

LF‐NMR results showed that three kinds of T2 protons assigned to protein–water interaction (T21), multilayer bound water (T22), oil and free water (T23), respectively. As the frying temperature increased, protons from the T22 peak significantly decreased, while protons from the T23 peak remarkably increased. The microstructure of fried mackerel was destroyed; cooking loss, oil content, a* value, b* value, hardness and chewiness increased; and the protein content and L* value decreased. Furthermore, PLSR analysis revealed that significant correlation was observed between the cooking loss, TPA parameter (chewiness), colour parameter (L*) and LF‐NMR parameters.

CONCLUSION

Different frying temperatures and times had a strong effect on the physicochemical properties of mackerel. Good prediction models could be established by proton migration using the LF‐NMR technique and PLSR for fried mackerel. Quality control of fried fish could be realized by monitoring the change in LF‐NMR data. © 2021 Society of Chemical Industry
Sarcopenia is associated with blood transfusions in head and neck cancer free flap surgery
Authors: Jones Alexander Joseph , Campiti Vincent J. , Alwani Mohamedkazim , Novinger Leah J. , Tucker Brady Jay , Bonetto Andrea , Yesensky Jessica A. , Sim Michael W. , Moore Michael G. , Mantravadi Avinash V.
Published: February 2021

Objective

To determine if sarcopenia is a predictor of blood transfusion requirements in head and neck cancer free flap reconstruction (HNCFFR).

Methods

A single‐institution, retrospective review was performed of HNCFFR patients with preoperative abdominal imaging from 2014 to 2019. Demographics, comorbidities (modified Charlson Comorbidity Index [mCCI]), skeletal muscle index (cm2/m2), oncologic history, intraoperative data, and 30‐day postoperative complications (Clavien‐Dindo score [CD]) were collected. Binary logistic regression was performed to determine predictors of transfusion.

Results

Eighty (33.5%), 66 (27.6%), and 110 (46.0%) of n = 239 total patients received an intraoperative, postoperative, or any perioperative blood transfusion, respectively. Sixty‐two (25.9%) patients had sarcopenia. Patients receiving intraoperative transfusions had older age (P = .035), more frequent alcoholism (P = .028) and sarcopenia (P < .001), greater mCCI (P < .001), lower preoperative hemoglobin (P < .001), reconstruction with flaps other than forearm (P = .003), and greater operative times (P = .001), intravenous fluids (P < .001), and estimated blood loss (EBL, P < .001). Postoperative transfusions were associated with major complications (CD ≥ 3; P < .001). Multivariate regression determined sarcopenia (P = .023), mCCI (P = .013), preoperative hemoglobin (P = .002), operative time (P = .036), and EBL (P < .001) as independent predictors of intraoperative transfusion requirements. Postoperative transfusions were predicted by preoperative hemoglobin (P = .007), osseous flap (P = .036), and CD ≥ 3 (P < .001). A perioperative transfusion was predicted by sarcopenia (P = .021), preoperative hemoglobin (P < .001), operative time (P = .008), and CD ≥ 3 (P = .018).

Conclusion

Sarcopenia is associated with increased blood transfusions in HNCFFR. Patients should be counseled preoperatively on the associated risks, and the increased blood product requirement should be accounted in resource‐limited scenarios.

Level of Evidence

4.
A Facile Strategy to Achieve Synergistic Multiple Hydrogen Bonding Interactions for Constructing Robust Hydrogels with Self‐healing Capability, Shape Transformation and Actuation Function
Authors: Yang Jumin , Cristian Valenzuela , Dong Anjie , Zhang Jianhua
Published: February 2021

The double network (DN) hydrogels, especially the physically crosslinked DN hydrogels, have attracted increasing attention due to their high reconfigurability, multi‐sensitivity, and efficient energy dissipation, but their applications still suffer from the relatively low mechanical strength, complex preparation process, and insufficient functionality. In this work, a simple but efficient strategy to fabricate robust and multitasking polyvinyl alcohol (PVA)/poly(N‐acryloyl glycinamide) (PNAGA) DN hydrogels via an ultraviolet (UV)‐initiated one‐pot in situ polymerization and a subsequent freezing‐thawing treatment is reported. The PVA/PNAGA DN hydrogels are fully physically linked DN network via multiple hydrogen bonding interactions, which contain hard PVA crystalline microdomains and soft PNAGA regions. The synergetic multiple hydrogen bonding interactions and the cooperation of hard and soft regions in PVA/PNAGA hydrogels as well as the polyhydroxy matrix can not only impart the PVA/PNAGA hydrogels with super mechanical strength, high toughness, good stretchability, and rapid shape‐recoverability, but also endow the hydrogels with tailorable self‐healability, multiple shape memory, and actuation function. Considering the easily available materials, simple preparation process, and highly multitasking properties, this novel strategy should greatly enrich the methodological toolbox for the synthesis of robust and multifunctional hydrogels for the diversity of applications.
Using machine learning to predict fire‐ignition occurrences from lightning forecasts
Authors: Coughlan Ruth , Di Giuseppe Francesca , Vitolo Claudia , Barnard Christopher , Lopez Philippe , Drusch Matthias
Published: February 2021

Lightning‐caused wildfires are a significant contributor to burned areas, with lightning ignitions remaining one of the most unpredictable aspects of the fire environment. There is a clear connection between fuel moisture and the probability of ignition; however, the mechanisms are poorly understood and predictive methods are underdeveloped. Establishing a lightning–ignition relationship would be useful in developing a model that would complement early warning systems designed for fire control and prevention. A machine learning (ML) approach was used to define a predictive model for wildfire ignition based on lightning forecasts and environmental conditions. Three different binary classifiers were adopted: a decision tree, an AdaBoost and a Random Forest, showing promising results, with both ensemble methods (Random Forest and AdaBoost) exhibiting an out‐of‐sample accuracy of 78%. Data provided by a Western Australia wildfire database allowed a comprehensive verification on over 145 lightning‐ignited wildfires in regions of Australia during 2016. This highlighted that in a minimum of 71% of the cases the ML models correctly predicted the occurrence of an ignition when a fire was actually initiated. The super‐learner developed is planned to be used in an operational context to the enhance information connected to fire management.
Switchable rasorber with high‐order frequency selective surface for transmission bandwidth extension
Authors: Li Ruiming , Hu Haoquan , Tian Jing , Jiang Bixiao , Chen Bo , Lei Shiwen
Published: February 2021

Switchable rasorber operating between rasorbing and absorbing states can effectively improve its stealth performance within the passband. However, the existing switchable rasorbers utilize single‐order frequency selective surfaces (FSSs), limiting their transmission bandwidth. This work proposes a switchable rasorber with expanded passband utilizing high‐order FSS. First, the switching principle of high‐order FSS is presented, which is then used to design the rasorber with an extended transmission band. The simulated results and experimental verification of the proposed switchable rasorber are also presented. Compared with the existing switchable rasorbers, the proposed device demonstrates the widest fractional transmission bandwidth of 17% and a minimum insertion loss of 0.54 dB in rasorbing state. In the absorbing state, the passband is eliminated and the device exhibits a single absorption band with fractional bandwidth of 89.3%.
Pro und Contra ‐ Contra Wasserstoffauto
Authors: Dudenhöffer Ferdinand
Published: February 2021

Eine flächendeckende Infrastruktur für Wasserstofftankstellen würde Milliarden kosten, und Brennstoffzellen‐Pkw sind teuer. Die Technik ist beim Pkw nicht wettbewerbsfähig.
Sortieren und aufbereiten
Authors: Bulmahn Maren
Published: February 2021

Die deutsche Entsorgungswirtschaft wandelt sich von linear zu zirkulär. Zum Abfallsammeln und ‐behandeln kommen neue Techniken und der Handel mit Altmaterialien. Ein Statusbericht.
Semi‐analytical analysis of fractional derivative rheological consolidation considering the effect of self‐weight stress
Authors: Ding Pan , Xu Riqing , Ju Luying , Qiu Zhijian , Cheng Guangmou , Zhan Xiaobo
Published: February 2021

Studies have revealed that rheological characteristics and self‐weight stress are nonnegligible during a consolidation process, especially for land reclamation projects or dredged soils. However, they are rarely considered simultaneously in traditional consolidation theories. This paper presents a general solution to the consolidation system of rheological soils that incorporates a fractional derivative model and self‐weight stress. First, the theory of the fractional derivative is introduced to the Merchant model to describe the consolidation behaviours of rheological soils, and the self‐weight stress of soils is simultaneously considered. Based on this model, the governing equation of a rheological consolidation system that considers self‐weight stress is obtained. Second, the analytical solutions of the effective stress and settlement in the Laplace domain are obtained by applying the Laplace transform to the consolidation governing equation. Further, the actual solutions in the real domain are obtained by a numerical Laplace transform inversion method (Abate's fixed Talbot method). Finally, the reliability and correctness of the consolidation theories and the proposed solutions are verified by comparing the calculated results with the degenerate solutions and experimental results in the existing literature. Furthermore, parametric studies are conducted to investigate the influence of rheological parameters and self‐weight parameters on the consolidation settlement and consolidation rate.
Three‐dimensional lattice Boltzmann simulation of the permeability of soil‐rock mixtures and comparison with other prediction models
Authors: Jin Lei , Cheng Tao , Zhang Yi , Li Jingjing
Published: February 2021

With the discrete element method and the proposed virtual slicing technique for three‐dimensional discrete element model, random pore‐structural models of soil‐rock mixtures (SRMs) are constructed and voxelized. Then, the three‐dimensional lattice Boltzmann method (LBM) is introduced to simulate the seepage flow in SRMs on the pore scale and the influences of rock content, rock size, relative density on the simulated permeability of SRMs are comprehensively investigated. Finally, several theoretical models are introduced to predict the permeability of SRMs, and comparison is made between the results given by these prediction models and the numerical results obtained in this study. The results show that the permeability of SRMs presents a gradually increasing trend with the increase of rock content, and the rate of increase is also getting larger. When the other conditions remain unchanged, the permeability of SRMs decreases with the increase of relative density. When the rock content is lower than a threshold value, the permeability decreases as the rock size increases; however, this trend gets reversed when the rock content exceeds the threshold value. The permeability values of SRMs simulated with the LBM are lower in different levels than those calculated with the HS model, EMA model, and Zhou model, but most of them are very close to those predicted by the Daigle model.
Strategic entrepreneurship in light of entrepreneurial and strategic orientations: A case of women entrepreneurs of Jammu and Kashmir in India
Authors: Jan Sumaira , Anwar Arif
Published: February 2021

This paper aims to determine the strategic perspective of entrepreneurship among women‐owned enterprises in Jammu and Kashmir (J&K), India, in light of entrepreneurial and strategic orientations. To check the hypotheses, the authors used primary data collected from a sample of 438 women entrepreneurs of J&K. After the data collection and filtration, statistical tools like factor analyses and structural equation modeling were used. It was found that women entrepreneurs in J&K highly consider innovativeness, proactiveness, risk‐taking abilities, aggressive competitiveness, and autonomy in their enterprises. They take decisions strategically, network with their stakeholders, and exploit their resources strategically in the exhibition of strategic entrepreneurship which involves dimensions of both entrepreneurial and strategic orientations. Leadership, in all its forms, portrayed insignificant results in the present study. This study has presented that the entrepreneurship type prevalent in the region of J&K might be considered more of sustenance than innovative or any other stronger forms. Due to this reason, its contribution to the economy of the state has been insignificant so far.
Unleashing the indirect influence of oil prices on food prices via exchange rate: New evidence from Pakistan
Authors: Adil Shahid , Bhatti Arshad Ali , Waqar Shujaa , Amin Sajid
Published: February 2021

Oil prices not only affect the agricultural commodity directly but also indirectly through different channels. However, among these channels, the most important is the channel of exchange rate. The reason for putting emphasis on the mediating role of exchange rate between the oil prices and food prices nexus is that the oil‐importing counties like Pakistan pay their import bills in terms of foreign currency in the international market which as a result escalates the demand for foreign currency in oil‐importing countries. This study has analyzed the indirect influence of oil prices on food prices via exchange rate. We developed a Composite Index (CI) of the agricultural commodity prices including wheat, cotton, rice, gram, sugar cane, and maize. This index is generated by using Principal Component Analysis (PCA). Further, to construct our econometric model, we used mediation approach by applying Seemingly Unrelated Regression (SUR) model. The results indicate a positive relationship between exchange rate and prices of oil. We also found the same relationship between exchange rate and the food prices. In addition to this, we witnessed positive effects of prices of oil on the food prices in the presence of exchange rate. Our study confirms that exchange rate partially mediates between the nexus of oil prices and food prices. Our analysis explains the impact of oil price on agricultural commodity prices through the channel of exchange rate by using time series data of Pakistan.
Cognitive reserve in stroke patients
Authors: Abdullah Ahmad H. , Sharip Shalisah , Rahman Abdul H. A. , Bakar Lazli
Published: February 2021

At present, a limited amount of information exists on the association between cognitive reserve and cognitive impairment in stroke populations. To determine predictors of cognitive reserve among stroke patients, 80 stroke patients attending the neurological and rehabilitation clinic in two different Malaysian general hospitals participated in this study. The Malay Cognitive Reserve Index questionnaire (CRIq‐M), Depression Anxiety and Stress Scales‐Short Form (DASS‐21), WHO Quality of Life assessment BREF‐21 (WHO‐QOL BREF‐21), Montreal Cognitive Assessment (MoCA), and modified Rankin Scale (mRS) were used as instruments in this study. The study found that cognitive reserve (CRIq‐M) is positively correlated with cognitive function (MoCA),r= 0.529,p < .01. Multiregression showed that education was a significant predictor of cognitive impairment whereas cognitive impairment as assessed by the MoCA is a significant predictor for cognitive reserve in people with stroke. Early identification of cognitive impairment among stroke patients is important so that effective individual rehabilitation can be designed to enhance individual cognitive reserve and quality of life.
Graphitic SiC: A potential anode material for Na‐ion battery with extremely high storage capacity
Authors: Liu Qin , Fu Chengbin , Xiao Bo , Li Yanchun , Cheng Jianbo , Liu Zhenbo , Yang Xin , Xu Xiufeng , Cui Hongtao , Li Qingzhong
Published: February 2021

Bulk SiC phases with tetrahedral arrangements have been identified several decades ago, and have been widely studied due to their potential applications. Until recently, Yaghoubi et al.'s experiment (Chem. Mater. 2018, 30, 7234) observed the existence of graphitic SiC with few SiC layers stacking, which implies the possible synthesis of such material in the future. In this work, we explored the potential application of graphitic SiC as the Na‐ion battery anode via the first‐principle simulation. Our results reveal that the theoretical capacity of graphitic SiC reaches up to 1339.44 mAh/g, which is almost the highest among the already known Na‐ion battery anodes. Together with the low diffusion barrier, moderate open circuit voltage and excellent electronic conductivity during the sodiation, we propose that the graphitic SiC is a potential material as Na‐ion battery anode. More importantly, we find that the intercalation strength of Na ions into C‐based multilayer materials (or the corresponding theoretical capacity, the operation voltage) could be enhanced by increasing the amount of covalent components in NaC bonds, which could be realized via doping by atom (such as Li, Be, B, Al, Si or P) with lower electronegativity than that of C atom.
A case of multidrug‐resistant Mycobacterium simiae in an elderly woman
Authors: Lotfi Hadi , Aryan Ehsan , Sankian Mojtaba , Meshkat Zahra , Khalifeh Soltani Ahmad , Alvandi Amir Hooshang , Farsiani Hadi
Published: February 2021

Mycobacterium simiae is an emerging and spreading pathogen in Iran and little data about its drug susceptibility test (DST) and no standard treatment regimen are available. We report a case of multidrug‐resistant M. simiae respiratory infection in a 65‐year‐old woman with a history of previous Mycobacterium tuberculosis infection. The patient was treated with clarithromycin, levofloxacin, and cotrimoxazole for one year and eventually died while still suffering from respiratory problems. For DST, broth microdilution method was used according to the Clinical and Laboratory Standards Institute guidelines as well as molecular DST in clinical isolate. Mycobacterium simiae was resistant to streptomycin, moxifloxacin, clarithromycin, and cotrimoxazole antibiotics and was sensitive to clofazimine and amikacin antibiotics. Inappropriate use of antibiotics without determining the pattern of antibiotic resistance increases the likelihood of resistance and, for resistant specimens, the need to review the treatment protocol and replace antibiotics. Effectiveness based on antibiotic resistance pattern is essential.
Thiolate‐Protected Metal Nanoclusters: Recent Development in Synthesis, Understanding of Reaction, and Application in Energy and Environmental Field
Authors: Kawawaki Tokuhisa , Ebina Ayano , Hosokawa Yasunaga , Ozaki Shuhei , Suzuki Daiki , Hossain Sakiat , Negishi Yuichi
Published: February 2021

Metal nanoclusters (NCs), which are composed of about 250 or fewer metal atoms, possess great potential as novel functional materials. Fundamental research on metal NCs gradually started in the 1960s, and since 2000, thiolate (SR)‐protected metal NCs have been the main metal NCs actively studied. The precise and systematic isolation of SR‐protected metal NCs has been achieved in 2005. Since then, research on SR‐protected metal NCs for both basic science and practical application has rapidly expanded. This review describes this recent progress in the field of SR‐protected metal NCs in three areas: synthesis, understanding, and application. Specifically, the recent study of alloy NCs and connected structures composed of NCs is highlighted in the “synthesis” section, recent knowledge on the reactivity of NCs in solution is highlighted in the “understanding” section, and the applications of NCs in the energy and environmental field are highlighted in the “application” section. This review provides insight on the current state of research on SR‐protected metal NCs and discusses the challenges to be overcome for further development in this field as well as the possibilities that these materials can contribute to solving the problems facing modern society.
Interfacing Carbon Dots for Charge‐Transfer Processes
Authors: Stergiou Anastasios , Tagmatarchis Nikos
Published: February 2021

Carbon dots (CDs) are a booming material and the most recent incomer in the big family of carbon nanostructures. Specifically, CDs are nanosized fluorescent core‐shell nanoparticles with tunable absorption and emission spectra, with high solubility in aqueous media and common organic solvents. Herein, the origins and the development of these unique nanoscale structures are discussed, key synthetic routes are briefly described, and the utilization of CDs in light‐induced charge‐transfer schemes is mainly focused upon. Beyond the impact of the CD's surface on the photoluminescence properties, functionalization, by covalent or supramolecular means, permits controllable incorporation of new functionalities with novel photophysical properties. Furthermore, the dual nature of CDs as electron donating or electron accepting species, unveiled upon interfacing them with organic chromophores, highlights their potentiality in managing diverse charge‐transfer processes. Novel mechanisms, such as symmetry‐breaking photoinduced charge‐transfer can be activated upon covalent functionalization of CDs with organic dyes. Without a doubt, participation of CDs in energy conversion schemes opens up a wide avenue that may lead to the development of novel prototype devices suitable for technological applications and related to photonics and optoelectronics.
Pb‐Doped Ag2Se Quantum Dots with Enhanced Photoluminescence in the NIR‐II Window
Authors: Yu Mengxuan , Yang Xiaohu , Zhang Yejun , Yang Hongchao , Huang Haoying , Wang Zan , Dong Jinyi , Zhang Rong , Sun Ziqiang , Li Chunyan , Wang Qiangbin
Published: February 2021

Ag2Se quantum dots (QDs) as an effective biological probe in the second near‐infrared window (NIR‐II, 1000–1700 nm) have been widely applied in bioimaging with high tissue penetration depth and high spatiotemporal resolution. However, the ions deficiency and crystal defects caused by the high Ag+ mobility in Ag2Se crystals are mainly responsible for the inefficient photoluminescence (PL) of Ag2Se QDs. Herein, a tailored route is reported to achieve controllable doping of Ag2Se QDs in which Ag is exchanged by Pb via cation exchange (CE), which is unattainable by direct synthetic methods. The Pb‐doped Ag2Se QDs (denoted as Pb:Ag2Se QDs) present fire‐new optical features with significantly enhanced PL intensity of 4.2 folds. Photoelectron spectroscopy confirms that Pb acts as an n‐type dopant for Ag2Se QDs and therefore the electronic impurities provide additional carriers to fill the traps. Moreover, the general validity of this method is demonstrated to convert different sized Ag2Se into Pb:Ag2Se QDs, so that a wide range of NIR‐II PL with high intensity is obtained. The bright NIR‐II emission of Pb:Ag2Se QDs is further successfully performed in lymphatic system mapping.
Calixarene‐Embedded Nanoparticles for Interference‐Free Gene–Drug Combination Cancer Therapy
Authors: Liu Qi , Zhang Tian‐Xing , Zheng Yadan , Wang Chun , Kang Ziyao , Zhao Yu , Chai Jingshan , Li Hua‐Bin , Guo Dong‐Sheng , Liu Yang , Shi Linqi
Published: February 2021

Combination therapy based on molecular drugs and therapeutic genes provides an effective strategy for malignant tumor treatment. However, effective gene and drug combinations for cancer treatment are limited by the widespread antagonism between therapeutic genes and molecular drugs. Herein, a calixarene‐embedded nanoparticle (CENP) is developed to co‐deliver molecular drugs and therapeutic genes without compromising their biological functions, thereby achieving interference‐free gene–drug combination cancer therapy. CENP is composed of a cationic polyplex core and an acid‐responsive polymer shell, allowing CENP loading and delivering therapeutic genes with improved circulation stability and enhanced tumor accumulation. Moreover, the introduction of carboxylated azocalix[4]arene, which is a hypoxia‐responsive calixarene derivatives, in the polyplex core endows CENP with the capability to load molecular drugs through the host–guest complexation as well as inhibit the interference between the drugs and genes by encapsulating the drugs into its cavity. By loading doxorubicin and a plasmid DNA‐based CRISPR interference system that targets miR‐21, CENP exhibits the significantly enhanced anti‐tumor effects in mice. Considering the wide variety of calixarene derivatives, CENP can be adapted to deliver almost any combination of drugs and genes, providing the potential as a universal platform for the development of interference‐free gene–drug combination cancer therapy.
Fluorinated Graphene‐Enabled Durable Triboelectric Coating for Water Energy Harvesting
Authors: Jiang Chengmei , Li Xunjia , Ying Yibin , Ping Jianfeng
Published: February 2021

The durability issue of triboelectric nanogenerators (TENGs) still limits its practical application for long‐term operation, especially in harvesting water energy, which is one of the most widespread energies in nature. Attempting to ameliorate this, fluorinated graphene (FG) with unique triboelectric negativity and superhydrophobic property is introduced to serve as a new triboelectric and protective layer for TENG construction. The self‐cleaning as well as anti‐corrosion property and durability of the FG coating‐enabled TENG device is then demonstrated. Furthermore, this novel triboelectronegative material candidate is applied for consecutively coating on Cu mesh and the inner wall of sewage pipe to fabricate TENGs for water energy harvesting and working as a metal protective layer in the meantime. Through the extraordinary output performance, the feasibility of FG‐enabled triboelectric coating to be used in the field of interference screening, filtering, and sewage pipes is proved. This developed triboelectronegative coating not only broadens the material selection of TENG but also significantly enhances the durability and robustness of TENG for water energy harvesting, which possesses great potential in applying in metal protection and water energy harvesting under extreme conditions (e.g., strong acid and strong alkaline environments).
Influence of Interfacial Thermal Resistance on Initial Solidification and Heat Transfer in Continuous Casting Mold of Steel
Authors: Ji Junde , Cui Yatao , Zhang Xubin , Wang Qiangqiang , He Shengping , Wang Qian
Published: February 2021

Herein, a 2D mathematical model is established to investigate the influence of interfacial thermal resistance (Rint) between the slag and the copper plate on the initial solidification and heat transfer in the mold. The profile of the slag rim, the thickness of the solidified shell and the slag in the shell/mold gap, the heat flux on the hot face of copper plate, and the depth of solidified meniscus with different Rint are compared. With the increase in the Rint from 0.5 × 10−4 to 2.0 × 10−4 m2 K W−1, the thickness and the length of the slag rim above the meniscus decrease, the thickness of the solid slag and the solidified shell also decreases, the maximum heat flux decreases from 4.8 to 3.1 MW m−2 in the current condition, and the depth of the solidified meniscus decreases and then increases. According to the mean depth of oscillation marks measured as 0.3 mm, the average Rint is 0.8 × 10−4 m2 K W−1 in the current casting condition. With the Rint of 5.0 × 10−4 m2 K W−1, only liquid slag exists in the shell/mold gap, which indicates that the meniscus solidification and heat transfer is significantly affected by the Rint.
Isolation, characterization and estimation of benzoxazinoid glycoside from seeds of Blepharis persica (Burm.f) O. Kuntze
Authors: Gaikar Nilesh , Raval Manan , Patel Samir , Patel Preksha , Hingorani Lal
Published: February 2021

Seeds of Blepharis persica, the extracts of which have various pharmacological activities, contain benzoxazinoid compounds. The present studies were aimed to isolate benzoxazinoid class of compound using chromatography, identify the isolated compound using spectroscopic methods, and development of a high‐performance liquid chromatography‐based analytical method for estimation of the constituent. The compound was isolated using HP‐20 and silica‐based column from n‐butanol fraction of Blepharis persica seeds and identified as blepharin from interpretation of spectra. An analytical method was developed using high‐performance liquid chromatography containing a photodiode‐array detector and validated as per ICH Q2(R1) guideline for estimation of blepharin. Blepharin was resolved using a C18 column, whereas the optimized mobile phase was water (pH 8): acetonitrile (90:10, %v/v). The linearity was established between 0.5 to 10.00 μg/mL. Limit of detection and limit of quantification were 0.015 and 0.046 μg/mL, respectively. The recovery was in the range of 100.9‐103.9%. The method was found to be selective, precise, and robust too. The content of blepharin was found (0.708 ± 0.02)% w/w of the dried weight basis of plant extract.
Influence of mix composition on the properties of recycled aggregate concrete
Authors: Zaben Abdulrahman , Maslehuddin Mohammed , Al‐Amoudi Omar S. B. , Al‐Dulaijan Salah U.
Published: February 2021

There is an increasing trend towards using recycled aggregate (RA) in concrete due to the shortage of high quality natural aggregates. The use of RA in concrete results in the conservation of natural resources, protects the environment and encourages sustainable construction. Though some studies have been conducted on the use of recycled aggregate concrete (RAC), the effect of mixture composition on its properties has not been well addressed. In the reported study, the effect of mixture composition, namely cement content and water/cement ratio and the proportion of RA on the mechanical properties of RAC was evaluated, with the intention of developing varying grades of RAC. As reported in earlier studies, the properties of RAC were generally inferior to that of normal aggregate concrete (NAC). Notwithstanding this, RAC with acceptable mechanical properties can be produced utilizing RA, for example RAC with low strength can be used in non‐structural applications. The construction industry should be encouraged to use RAC in building construction; as its use will lead to technical, economic and environmental benefits. Further, the use of RAC will lead to a sustainable development of the construction industry, particularly in regions that lack good quality natural aggregates. Based on the data developed in the reported study, the following quantities of RA are recommended to produce RAC: (i) 20% to produce low strength (20–30 MPa) concrete, (ii) 40% to produce medium (30–50 MPa) concrete and high strength (more than 50 MPa) concrete. Mathematical correlations between the mechanical properties of RAC with varying mix design parameters, such as cement content and water cement ratio and the quantity of RA, are also reported. These correlations can be used to predict the properties of RAC prepared with other proportions of RA and mix design parameters.
Potential chemotherapeutic effect of betalain against human non‐small cell lung cancer through PI3K/Akt/mTOR signaling pathway
Authors: Yin Zongxiu , Yang Yanna , Guo Tianfang , Veeraraghavan Vishnu Priya , Wang Xin
Published: February 2021

This work focuses on evaluating the therapeutic ability of betalain and its causal mechanisms in NSCLC both in vivo and in vitro. The experimental results demonstrated that betalain was able to reduce the viability of A549 cells dose dependently with undetectable toxicity toward normal human cells. Betalain also augmented the apoptotic cells of A549 and cell cycle arrest which was evidenced via increased in level of p53/p21 and decreasing levels of cyclin‐D1 complex. Moreover, betalain also reduced the levels of p‐PI3K, p‐Akt, and mammalian target of rapamycin significantly, justifying the pro‐apoptotic effect on A549 cells. The in vivo anticancer activity of betalain was determined further in nude mice injected with A549 cells. Xenograft in vivo experiments confirmed betalain administration of ameliorates the expression of pro‐inflammatory cytokines, tumor markers with reduced toxic effect. Accordingly, this combined study provides significant insight on betalain as a therapeutic agent.
Optimal tuned mass dampers for wind turbines using a Sigmoid satisfaction function‐based multiobjective optimization during earthquakes
Authors: Chen Xin , Kareem Ahsan , Xu Guoji , Wang Hao , Sun Yong , Hu Liang
Published: February 2021

Recent installation of many wind turbines in earthquake‐prone areas worldwide has increased concerns regarding their seismic performance. This study introduces a multiobjective optimization design method using a modified Sigmoid satisfaction function to efficiently minimize the seismic response by installing tuned mass dampers (TMDs) on wind turbines. Inspired by the human decision‐making process, the modified Sigmoid function was utilized to improve the satisfaction function and balance the optimization objectives. Incorporating the particle swarm optimization algorithm resulted in lower sensitivity to the combination weighting factors and significantly reduced the effort required to calibrate the weighting factors for any practical multiobjective optimization problem. To verify the efficacy of the proposed methodology, a TMD was designed on a National Renewable Energy Laboratory (NREL) 5‐MW benchmark wind turbine, with constraints on both the top displacement and TMD stroke as design objectives. The results were compared to those obtained using the conventional linear weighted sum method, thereby highlighting the advantages of the proposed method. The scope of application of the proposed method is further demonstrated by a more complex TMD design problem involving 13 design objectives with typical seismic excitations.
Inventory and Monitoring of Invasive Species
Authors: Oswalt Sonja , Oswalt Chris , Crall Alycia , Rabaglia Robert , Schwartz Michael K. , Kerns Becky K.
Published: February 2021

Inventory and monitoring programs and high-quality distribution data are needed to manage invasive species and to develop quantitative ecological, economic, and social impact assessments. Strong inventory and monitoring programs provide valuable insights that help direct efforts to prevent and contain invasive species. Understanding where to focus management efforts, in addition to educational outreach, is key to developing economically efficient and ecologically relevant programs. As noted in Chap. 2, additional research is needed to address large-scale impacts and co-occurring impacts of multiple invaders. Inventory and monitoring efforts help to inform where this research can be most effectively applied by identifying areas where invasives are most abundant, most likely to spread, or most likely to be contained (Byers et al. 2002; Myers et al. 2000). Furthermore, as climate change continues to pose new and uncertain impacts on ecosystems, monitoring at the edge of invasive species’ ranges will become more important to management efforts (Hellmann et al. 2008).
The Role of International Cooperation in Invasive Species Research
Authors: Liebhold Andrew M. , Campbell Faith T. , Gordon Doria R. , Guo Qinfeng , Havill Nathan , Kinder Bradley , MacKenzie Richard , Lance David R. , Pearson Dean E. , Sing Sharlene E. , Warziniack Travis , Venette Robert C. , Yemshanov Denys
Published: February 2021

The root cause of the biological invasion problem is globalization, which has facilitated the planet-wide breakdown of biogeographic barriers to species migration (Mooney and Hobbs 2000). In order to understand and manage the problem, coordination on a global scale is essential, and international cooperation among affected countries as well as with countries of pest origin must therefore play a critical role in virtually all aspects of research on biological invasions (Chornesky et al. 2005; McNeely et al. 2001; Perrings et al. 2010; Wingfield et al. 2015). Here we discuss key aspects of research on biological invasions, where international collaboration and coordination are important, and what infrastructures play a role in this work.
Future Invasive Species Research Challenges and Opportunities
Authors: Kerns Becky K. , Poland Therese M. , Venette Robert C. , Patel-Weynand Toral , Finch Deborah M. , Rowley Allen , Hayes Deborah C. , Ielmini Mike
Published: February 2021

Introductions of new invasive species continue with ever-expanding global trade, and the increase in invasive species does not show any sign of saturation for most taxonomic groups. However, some non-native species may arrive in an area and fail to become established or have no measurable impact. Thus, the protection of valued ecosystems depends on reliable knowledge about the species that are or might be invading, the ecosystems that are being invaded, the potential magnitude of different types of harm, the availability and effectiveness of management responses, and the desired state of ecosystems under protection. Primary research is a vital means of gathering that knowledge.
Impacts of Invasive Species on Forest and Grassland Ecosystem Processes in the United States
Authors: Miniat Chelcy Ford , Fraterrigo Jennifer M. , Brantley Steven T. , Callaham Mac A. , Cordell Susan , Dukes Jeffrey S. , Giardina Christian P. , Jose Shibu , Lovett Gary
Published: February 2021

In this chapter, we describe current understanding of and identify research gaps on how invasive species directly, and indirectly, affect ecosystem processes. Specifically, we focus on how invasive species can alter the terrestrial carbon, nitrogen, and hydrologic cycles and how changes to these terrestrial cycles cascade to affect water quantity and quality. While invasive species may alter other ecosystem processes, we focus on these due to their importance to policy, to the public, and to their likely interaction with climate change effects. For example, carbon sequestration and surface water supply originating from forests and grasslands (Caldwell et al. 2014) are important policy and public concerns, and drought frequency and intensity will likely increase with climate change (Vose et al. 2016a). Our goal is to draw generalizations rather than provide details on invasive species effects on a case-by-case basis. We do, however, provide case studies for illustration and draw linkages with other chapters that provide detailed coverage to disturbance regimes (Chap. 5) and types and mechanisms of ecological impact caused by invasive insects (Chap. 2).
Early Intervention Strategies for Invasive Species Management: Connections Between Risk Assessment, Prevention Efforts, Eradication, and Other Rapid Responses
Authors: Venette Robert C. , Gordon Doria R. , Juzwik Jennifer , Koch Frank H. , Liebhold Andrew M. , Peterson Robert K. D. , Sing Sharlene E. , Yemshanov Denys
Published: February 2021

Managing invasive species becomes increasingly difficult and expensive as populations of new pathogens, plants, insects, and other animals (i.e., pests) spread and reach high densities. Research over the past decade confirms the value of early intervention strategies intended to (1) prevent invasive species from arriving within an endangered area or (2) detect and respond quickly to new species incursions (Baker et al. 2009; Ewel et al. 1999; Holden et al. 2016; Leung et al. 2014). The goal of such biosecurity approaches is to keep or return the density of invasive species to zero so that damages from those pests might be prevented or to confine populations to localized areas so that damage from those species might be limited (Magarey et al. 2009). Prediction, prevention, early detection, eradication, and other rapid responses, all components of proactive management, are less costly and more effective than reactive tactics (Epanchin-Niell and Liebhold 2015; Leung et al. 2002; Lodge et al. 2006; Rout et al. 2014) (Fig. 6.1). Prediction is achieved throughrisk assessment(a process to forecast the likelihood and consequence of an invasion) andpathway analysis(a process to evaluate the means by which invasive species might be brought into an area of concern). Prevention is achieved through a variety of measures including regulations and quarantine treatments. Indeed, pathway analyses and subsequent regulation of those pathways are considered “the frontline in the prevention of biological invasions” (Hulme 2009) and cost-effective approaches (Essl et al. 2015; Keller et al. 2007; Leung et al. 2002; Tidbury et al. 2016). Surveillance is fundamental to early detection, and if a target species is detected, the primary rapid responses are eradication, containment, or suppression (reviewed in Beric and MacIsaac 2015). Early intervention strategies often operate at spatial scales that are much greater than the scale at which most land managers operate. Success thus requires effective coordination among researchers, regulators, and managers at international, national, sub-national, and local levels.
Sectoral Impacts of Invasive Species in the United States and Approaches to Management
Authors: Marsh Anne S. , Hayes Deborah C. , Klein Patrice N. , Zimmerman Nicole , Dalsimer Alison , Burkett Douglas A. , Huebner Cynthia D. , Rabaglia Robert , Meyerson Laura A. , Harper-Lore Bonnie L. , Davidson Jamie L. , Emery Marla R. , Warziniack Travis , Flitcroft Rebecca , Kerns Becky K. , Lopez Vanessa M.
Published: February 2021

Invasive species have a major effect on many sectors of the U.S. economy and on the well-being of its citizens. Their presence impacts animal and human health, military readiness, urban vegetation and infrastructure, water, energy and transportations systems, and indigenous peoples in the United States (Table 9.1). They alter bio-physical systems and cultural practices and require significant public and private expenditure for control. This chapter provides examples of the impacts to human systems and explains mechanisms of invasive species’ establishment and spread within sectors of the U.S. economy. The chapter is not intended to be comprehensive but rather to provide insight into the range and severity of impacts. Examples provide context for ongoing Federal programs and initiatives and support State and private efforts to prevent the introduction and spread of invasive species and eradicate and control established invasive species.
Pitch Proposal: Recommenders with a Mission - Assessing Diversity in News Recommendations
Authors: Vrijenhoek Sanne , Helberger Natali
Published: February 2021

By helping the user find relevant and important online content, news recommenders have the potential to fulfill a crucial role in a democratic society. Simultaneously, recent concerns about filter bubbles, fake news and selective exposure are symptomatic of the disruptive potential of these digital news recommenders. Recommender systems can make or break filter bubbles, and as such can be instrumental in creating either a more closed or a more open internet. This document details a pitch for an ongoing project that aims to bridge the gap between normative notions of diversity, rooted in democratic theory, and quantitative metrics necessary for evaluating the recommender system. Our aim is to get feedback on a set of proposed metrics grounded in social science interpretations of diversity.
An Educational News Dataset for Recommender Systems
Authors: Xing Yujie , Mohallick Itishree , Gulla Jon Atle , Özgöbek Özlem , Zhang Lemei
Published: February 2021

Datasets are an integral part of contemporary research on recommender systems. However, few datasets are available for conventional recommender systems and even very limited datasets are available when it comes to contextualized (time and location-dependent) News Recommender Systems. In this paper, we introduce an educational news dataset for recommender systems. This dataset is the refined version of the earlier published Adressa dataset and intends to support the university students in the educational purpose. We discuss the structure and purpose of the refined dataset in this paper.
On the Coherence of Fake News Articles
Authors: Singh Iknoor , Deepak P.  , Anoop K.
Published: February 2021

The generation and spread of fake news within new and online media sources is emerging as a phenomenon of high societal significance. Combating them using data-driven analytics has been attracting much recent scholarly interest. In this computational social science study, we analyze the textual coherence of fake news articles vis-a-vis legitimate ones. We develop three computational formulations of textual coherence drawing upon the state-of-the-art methods in natural language processing and data science. Two real-world datasets from widely different domains which have fake/legitimate article labellings are then analyzed with respect to textual coherence. We observe apparent differences in textual coherence across fake and legitimate news articles, with fake news articles consistently scoring lower on coherence as compared to legitimate news ones. While the relative coherence shortfall of fake news articles as compared to legitimate ones form the main observation from our study, we analyze several aspects of the differences and outline potential avenues of further inquiry.