bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Boosting Bifunctional Catalysis by Integrating Active Faceted Intermetallic Nanocrystals and Strained Pt–Ir Functional Shells
Authors: Zhu Shiyu , Liu Yun , Gong Yue , Sun Yuting , Chen Kang , Liu Yuan , Liu Weidi , Xia Tianyu , Zheng Qiang , Gao Han , Guo Haizhong , Wang Rongming
Published: October 2023

PtIr‐based nanostructures are fascinating materials for application in bifunctional oxygen reduction reaction (ORR) and oxygen evolution reaction (OER) catalysis. However, the fabrication of PtIr nanocatalysts with clear geometric features and structural configurations, which are crucial for enhancing the bifunctionality, remains challenging. Herein, PtCo@PtIr nanoparticles are precisely designed and fabricated with a quasi‐octahedral PtCo nanocrystal as a highly atomically ordered core and an ultrathin PtIr atomic layer as a compressively strained shell. Owing to their geometric and core–shell features, the PtCo@PtIr nanoparticles deliver approximately six and eight times higher mass and specific activities, respectively, as an ORR catalyst than a commercial Pt/C catalyst. The half‐wave potential of PtCo@PtIr exhibits a negligible decrease by 9 mV after 10 000 cycles, indicating extraordinary ORR durability because of the ordered arrangement of Pt and Co atoms. When evaluated using the ORR–OER dual reaction upon the introduction of Ir, PtCo@PtIr exhibits a small ORR–OER overpotential gap of 679 mV, demonstrating its great potential as a bifunctional electrocatalyst for fabricating fuel cells. The findings pave the way for designing precise intermetallic core–shell nanocrystals as highly functional catalysts.
Nanomaterial‐Enabled Photothermal Heating and Its Use for Cancer Therapy via Localized Hyperthermia
Authors: Shen Song , Qiu Jichuan , Huo Da , Xia Younan
Published: October 2023

Photothermal therapy (PTT), which employs nanoscale transducers delivered into a tumor to locally generate heat upon irradiation with near‐infrared light, shows great potential in killing cancer cells through hyperthermia. The efficacy of such a treatment is determined by a number of factors, including the amount, distribution, and dissipation of the generated heat, as well as the type of cancer cell involved. The amount of heat generated is largely controlled by the number of transducers accumulated inside the tumor, the absorption coefficient and photothermal conversion efficiency of the transducer, and the irradiance of the light. The efficacy of treatment depends on the distribution of the transducers in the tumor and the penetration depth of the light. The vascularity and tissue thermal conduction both affect the dissipation of heat and thereby the distribution of temperature. The successful implementation of PTT in the clinic setting critically depends on techniques for real‐time monitoring and management of temperature.
In Situ Insertion of Silicon Nanowires into Hollow Porous Co/NC Polyhedra Enabling Large‐Current‐Density Hydrogen Evolution Electrocatalysis
Authors: Yang Tianyu , Chen Ziliang , Wang Yingming , Huang Hui , Yin Kui , Liao Fan , Liu Yang , Kang Zhenhui
Published: October 2023

N‐doped carbon (NC)‐encapsulated transition metal (TM) nanocomposites are considered as alternatives to Pt‐based hydrogen evolution reaction (HER) electrocatalysts; however, their poor electron transfer and mass diffusion capability at high current densities hinder their practical application. Herein, an oriented coupling strategy for the in situ grafting of ultrafine Co nanoparticle‐embedded hollow porous C polyhedra onto Si nanowires (Co/NC‐HP@Si‐NWs) is proposed to address this concern. Experimental investigations reveal that the intimate coupling between the Si‐NW and Co/NC nanocage forms a multithreaded conductive network, lowering the energy barrier for internal electron transfer. When functionalized as an HER electrocatalyst in 0.5 m H2SO4, Co/NC‐HP@Si‐NWs deliver overpotentials as low as 57 and 440 mV at 10 and 500 mA cm−2, respectively, which are much better than those of the pristine Co/NC‐HP. Moreover, Co/NC‐HP@Si‐NWs show an outstanding cycle durability of 24 h at 10 and 500 mA cm−2. The findings of this study are expected to inspire revolutionary work on the development of Si‐mediated TM‐based electrocatalysts for the HER.
Strain and Shell Thickness Engineering in Pd3Pb@Pt Bifunctional Electrocatalyst for Ethanol Upgrading Coupled with Hydrogen Production
Authors: Li Tong , Wang Qiuxia , Wu Jingjing , Sui Yanping , Tang Pengyi , Liu Haiting , Zhang Wenjie , Li Huaming , Wang Yong , Cabot Andreu , Liu Junfeng
Published: October 2023

The ethanol oxidation reaction (EOR) is an attractive alternative to the sluggish oxygen evolution reaction in electrochemical hydrogen evolution cells. However, the development of high‐performance bifunctional electrocatalysts for both EOR and hydrogen evolution reaction (HER) is a major challenge. Herein, the synthesis of Pd3Pb@Pt core–shell nanocubes with controlled shell thickness by Pt‐seeded epitaxial growth on intermetallic Pd3Pb cores is reported. The lattice mismatch between the Pd3Pb core and the Pt shell leads to the expansion of the Pt lattice. The synergistic effects between the tensile strain and the core–shell structures result in excellent electrocatalytic performance of Pd3Pb@Pt catalysts for both EOR and HER. In particular, Pd3Pb@Pt with three Pt atomic layers shows a mass activity of 8.60 A mg−1Pd+Pt for ethanol upgrading to acetic acid and close to 100% of Faradic efficiency for HER. An EOR/HER electrolysis system is assembled using Pd3Pb@Pt for both the anode and cathode, and it is shown that low cell voltage of 0.75 V is required to reach a current density of 10 mA cm−2. The present work offers a promising strategy for the development of bifunctional catalysts for hybrid electrocatalytic reactions and beyond.
Self‐Interface in Rh Nanosheets‐Supported Tetrahedral Rh Nanocrystals for Promoting Electrocatalytic Oxidation of Ethanol
Authors: Cheng Tianchun , Tian Jinshu , Du Jiafeng , Wang Zhi , Ye Jinyu , Liu Aihua , Chen Qiaoli , Zhu Yihan
Published: October 2023

Direct ethanol fuel cells hold great promise as a power source. However, their commercialization is limited by anode catalysts with insufficient selectivity toward a complete oxidation of ethanol for a high energy density, as well as sluggish catalytic kinetics and low stability. To optimize the catalytic performance, rationally tuning surface structure or interface structure is highly desired. Herein, a facile route is reported to the synthesis of Rh nanosheets‐supported tetrahedral Rh nanocrystals (Rh THs/NSs), which possess self‐supporting homogeneous interface between Rh tetrahedrons and Rh nanosheets. Due to full leverage of the structural advantages within the given structure and construction of interfaces, the Rh THs/NSs can serve as highly active electro‐catalysts with excellent mass activity and selectivity toward ethanol electro‐oxidation. The in situ Fourier transform infrared reflection spectroscopy showed the Rh THs/NSs exhibit the highest C1 pathway selectivity of 23.2%, far exceeding that of Rh nanotetrahedra and Rh nanosheets. Density function theory calculations further demonstrated that self‐interface between Rh nanosheets and tetrahedra is beneficial for C‐C bond cleavage of ethanol. Meanwhile, the self‐supporting of 2D nanosheets greatly enhance the stability of tetrahedra, which improves the catalytic stability.
Compromise Optimized Superior Energy Storage Performance in Lead‐Free Antiferroelectrics by Antiferroelectricity Modulation and Nanodomain Engineering
Authors: Chen Liang , Zhou Chang , Zhu Lifeng , Qi He , Chen Jun
Published: October 2023

Lead‐free antiferroelectrics with excellent energy storage performance can become the core components of the next‐generation advanced pulse power capacitors. However, the low energy storage efficiency caused by the hysteresis of antiferroelectric‐ferroelectric transition largely limits their development toward miniaturization, lightweight, and integration. In this work, an ultrahigh recoverable energy storage density of ≈11.4 J cm−3 with a high efficiency of ≈80% can be realized in La‐modified Ag0.5Na0.5NbO3 antiferroelectric ceramics at an ultrahigh breakdown electric field of ≈67 kV mm−1 by the compromise optimization between antiferroelectricity enhancement and nanodomain engineering, resulting in the transformation of large‐size ferrielectric antipolar stripe domains into ultrasmall antiferroelectric nanodomains or polarization nanoregions revealing as Moiré fringe structures. In addition, the enhanced transparency with increasing La content can also be clearly observed. This work not only develops new lead‐free antiferroelectric energy storage materials with high application potential but also demonstrates that the strategy of compromise optimization between antiferroelectricity modulation and nanodomain engineering is an effective avenue to enhance the energy storage performance of antiferroelectrics.
Regulating Charge Carrier Dynamics in Stable Perovskite Nanorods for Photo‐Induced Atom Transfer Radical Polymerization
Authors: Liang Shuang , Hao Jingyi , Gu Zongheng , Pang Xinchang , He Yanjie
Published: October 2023

Semiconducting nanocrystals have attracted world‐wide research interest in artificial photosynthesis due to their appealing properties and enticing potentials in converting solar energy into valuable chemicals. Compared to 0D nanoparticles, 1D nanorods afford long‐distance charge carriers separation and extended charge carriers lifetime due to the release of quantum confinement in axial direction. Herein, stable CsPbBr3 nanorods of distinctive dimensions are crafted without altering their properties and morphology via grafting hydrophobic polystyrene (PS) chains through a post‐synthesis ligand exchange process. The resulting PS‐capped CsPbBr3 nanorods exhibit a series of enhanced stabilities against UV irradiation, elevated temperature, and polar solvent, making them promising candidates for photo‐induced atom transfer radical polymerization (ATRP). Tailoring the surface chemistry and dimension of the PS‐capped CsPbBr3 nanorods endows stable, but variable reaction kinetics in the photo‐induced ATRP of methyl methacrylate. The trapping‐detrapping process of photogenerated charge carriers lead to extended lifetime of charge carriers in lengthened CsPbBr3 nanorods, contributing to a facilitated reaction kinetics of photo‐induced ATRP. Therefore, by leveraging such stable PS‐capped CsPbBr3 nanorods, the effects of surface chemistry and charge carriers dynamics on its photocatalytic performance are scrutinized, providing fundamental understandings for designing next‐generation efficient nanostructured photocatalyst in artificial photosynthesis and solar energy conversion.
De‐Pinning Fermi Level and Accelerating Surface Kinetics with an ALD Finish Boost the Fill Factor of BiVO4 Photoanodes to 44%
Authors: Lei Renbo , Tang Yupu , Yan Shihan , Qiu Weitao , Guo Zheng , Tian Xu , Wang Qian , Zhang Kai , Ju Shanshan , Yang Shihe , Wang Xinwei
Published: October 2023

With the rapid development of performance and long‐term stability, bismuth vanadate (BiVO4) has emerged as the preferred photoanode in photoelectrochemical tandem devices. Although state‐of‐the‐art BiVO4 photoanodes realize a saturated photocurrent density approaching the theoretical maximum, the fill factor (FF) is still inferior, pulling down the half‐cell applied bias photon‐to‐current efficiency (HC‐ABPE). Among the major fundamental limitations are the Fermi level pinning and sluggish surface kinetics at the low applied potentials. This work demonstrates that the plasma‐assisted atomic layer deposition technique is capable of addressing these issues by seamlessly installing an angstrom‐scale FeNi‐layer between BiVO4 and electrolyte. Not only this ultrathin FeNi layer serves as an efficient OER cocatalyst, more importantly, it also effectively passivates the surface states of BiVO4, de‐pins the surface Fermi level, and enlarges the built‐in voltage, allowing the photoanode to make optimal use of the photogenerated holes for achieving high FF up to 44% and HC‐ABPE to 2.2%. This study offers a new approach for enhancing the FF of photoanodes and provides guidelines for designing efficient unassisted solar fuel devices.
Ultrahigh Energy Storage Density and Efficiency of Lead‐Free Dielectrics with Sandwich Structure
Authors: Yan Fei , Qian Jin , Lin Jinfeng , Ge Guanglong , Shi Cheng , Zhai Jiwei
Published: October 2023

Lead‐free dielectric capacitors have attracted significant research interest for high‐power applications due to their environmental benefits and ability to meet the demanding performance requirements of electronic devices. However, the development of lead‐free ceramic dielectrics with outstanding energy storage performance remains a challenge. In this study, environmentally friendly ceramic dielectrics with sandwich structures are designed and fabricated to improve energy storage performance via the synergistic effect of different dielectrics. The chemical compositions of the outer and middle layers of the sandwich structure are 0.35BiFeO3‐0.65SrTiO3 and Bi0.39Na0.36Sr0.25TiO3, respectively. The experimental and theoretical simulation results demonstrate that the breakdown strength is over 700 kV cm−1 for prepare sandwich structure ceramics. As a result, an ultrahigh recoverable energy storage density of 9.05 J cm−3 and a near‐ideal energy storage efficiency of 97% are simultaneously achieved under 710 kV cm−1. Furthermore, the energy storage efficiency maintains high values (≥ 96%) within 1–100 Hz and the power density as high as 188 MW cm−3 under 400 kV cm−1. These results indicate that the designed lead‐free ceramics with a sandwich structure possess superior comprehensive energy storage performance, making them promising lead‐free candidates in the energy storage field.
Enhanced Charge Transfer via S‐Scheme Heterojunction Interface Engineering of Supramolecular SubPc–Br/UiO‐66 Arrays for Efficient Photocatalytic Oxidation
Authors: Zheng Zheng , Wang Bing , Li Zhuo , Hao Hong , Wei ChaoYang , Luo WenYu , Jiao LinYu , Zhang Sheng , Zhou Bo , Ma XiaoXun
Published: October 2023

Constructing heterojunction of supramolecular arrays self‐assembled on metal–organic frameworks (MOFs) with elaborate charge transfer mechanisms is a promising strategy for the photocatalytic oxidation of organic pollutants. Herein, H12SubPcB–Br (SubPc–Br) and UiO‐66 are used to obtain the step‐scheme (S‐scheme) heterojunction SubPc–Br/UiO‐66 for the first time, which is then applied in the photocatalytic oxidation of minocycline. Atomic‐level B–O–Zr charge‐transfer channels and van der Waals force connections synergistically accelerated the charge transfer at the interface of the SubPc–Br/UiO‐66 heterojunction, while the establishment of the B–O–Zr bonds also led to the directional transfer of charge from SubPc–Br to UiO‐66. The synergy is the key to improving the photocatalytic activity and stability of SubPc–Br/UiO‐66, which is also verified by various characterization methods and theoretical calculations. The minocycline degradation efficiency of supramolecular SubPc–Br/UiO‐66 arrays reach 90.9% within 30 min under visible light irradiation. The molecular dynamics simulations indicate that B–O–Zr bonds and van der Waals force contribute significantly to the stability of the SubPc–Br/UiO‐66 heterojunction. This work reveals an approach for the rational design of semiconducting MOF‐based heterojunctions with improved properties.
All‐in‐One Zinc‐Doped Prussian Blue Nanozyme for Efficient Capture, Separation, and Detection of Copper Ion (Cu2+) in Complicated Matrixes
Authors: Zhang Ying , Yuan Xue , Guo Xinyue , Xu Huan , Zhang Dongxin , Wu Zhengyan , Zhang Jia
Published: October 2023

Copper is a vital micronutrient for lives and an important ingredient for bactericides and fungicides. Given its indispensable biological and agricultural roles, there is an urgent need to develop simple, affordable, and reliable methods for detecting copper in complicated matrixes, particularly in underdeveloped regions where costly standardized instruments and sample dilution procedures hinder progress. The findings that zinc‐doped Prussian blue nanoparticle (ZnPB NP) exhibits exceptional efficiency in capturing and isolating copper ions, and accelerates the generation of dissolved oxygen in a solution of H2O2 with remarkable sensitivity and selectivity, the signal of which displays a positive correlation with the copper level due to the copper‐enhanced catalase‐like activity of ZnPB NP, are presented. Consequently, the ZnPB NP serves as an all‐in‐one sensor for copper ion. The credibility of the method for copper assays in human urine and farmland soil is shown by comparing it to the standard instrumentation, yielding a coefficient of correlation (R2 = 0.9890), but the cost is dramatically reduced. This ZnPB nanozyme represents a first‐generation probe for copper ion in complicated matrixes, laying the groundwork for the future development of a practical copper sensor that can be applied in resource‐constrained environments.
Layer‐By‐Layer Assembly of Atomically Precise Alloy Nanoclusters Photosystems for Solar Water Oxidation
Authors: Su Peng , Tang Bo , Xiao Fang‐Xing
Published: October 2023

Atomically precise metal nanoclusters (NCs) have garnered tremendous attention as light‐harvesting antennas in heterogeneous photocatalysis due to unique atomic stacking mode, quantum confinement effect, and enriched active sites. However, metal NCs as photosensitizers suffer from extremely short carrier lifetime, poor photostability, and difficulty in carrier migration, which hinder the wide‐spread utilization of metal NCs in solar energy conversion. To solve these problems, herein, Ag‐doped glutathione (GSH)‐capped gold NCs, i.e., alloy Au1−xAgx@GSH NCs and non‐conjugated insulating polymer of poly(diallyl‐dimethylammonium chloride) (PDDA) are utilized as the building blocks for layer‐by‐layer assembly of spatially multilayered alloy NCs/metal oxide (MO) photosystems. The alternately deposited ultrathin PDDA layer in‐between Au1−xAgx@GSH NCs on the MO substrate functions as an efficient charge flow mediator to relay the directional photoelectron transfer over Au1−xAgx@GSH NCs, giving rise to the cascade charge transfer chain. This peculiar carrier migration mode endowed by exquisite interface configuration design significantly boosts the unidirectional electron migration from the Au1−xAgx@GSH NCs to the MO substrate, substantially improving the visible‐light‐driven photoelectrochemical water oxidation performances of MO/(PDDA‐Au1−xAgx)n multilayer heterostructured photoanodes. The work will inspire the rational construction of alloy metal NCs‐based photosystems for modulating spatially controllable charge transfer pathway for solar energy conversion.
Spiral‐Driven Vertical Conductivity in Nanocrystalline Graphene
Authors: Kim Yohan , Lee Chang‐Seok , Son Seungwoo , Shin Keun Wook , Byun Kyung‐Eun , Shin Hyeon‐Jin , Lee Zonghoon , Shin Hyung‐Joon
Published: October 2023

The structure of graphene grown in chemical vapor deposition (CVD) is sensitive to the growth condition, particularly the substrate. The conventional growth of high‐quality graphene via the Cu‐catalyzed cracking of hydrocarbon species has been extensively studied; however, the direct growth on noncatalytic substrates, for practical applications of graphene such as current Si technologies, remains unexplored. In this study, nanocrystalline graphene (nc‐G) spirals are produced on noncatalytic substrates by inductively coupled plasma CVD. The enhanced out‐of‐plane electrical conductivity is achieved by a spiral‐driven continuous current pathway from bottom to top layer. Furthermore, some neighboring nc‐G spirals exhibit a homogeneous electrical conductance, which is not common for stacked graphene structure. Klein‐edge structure developed at the edge of nc‐Gs, which can easily form covalent bonding, is thought to be responsible for the uniform conductance of nc‐G aggregates. These results have important implications for practical applications of graphene with vertical conductivity realized through spiral structure.
Humidity‐Induced Degradation Processes of Halide Perovskites Unveiled by Correlative Analytical Electron Microscopy
Authors: Mejaouri Salim , Cacovich Stefania , Baranek Philippe , Bérenguier Baptiste , Zimmermann Iwan , Yaiche Armelle , Loisnard Dominique , Rousset Jean , Collin Stéphane
Published: October 2023

Improving the stability of lead halide perovskite solar cells (PSCs) for industrialization is currently a major challenge. It is shown that moisture induces changes in global PSC performance, altering the nature of the absorber through phase transition or segregation. Understanding how the material evolves in a wet environment is crucial for optimizing device performance and stability. Here, the chemical and structural evolution of state‐of‐the‐art hybrid perovskite thin‐film Cs0.05(MA0.15FA0.85)0.95Pb(I0.84 Br0.16)3 (CsMAFA) is investigated after aging under controlled humidity with analytical characterization techniques. The analysis is performed at different scales through Photoluminescence, X‐ray Diffraction Spectroscopy, Cathodoluminescence, Selected Area Electron Diffraction, and Energy Dispersive X‐ray Spectroscopy. From the analysis of the degradation products from the perovskite layer and by the correlation of their optical and chemical properties at a microscopic level, different phases such as lead–iodide (PbI2), inorganic mixed halide CsPb(I0.9Br0.1)3 and lead‐rich CsPb2(I0.74Br0.26)5 perovskite are evidenced. These phases demonstrate a high degree of crystallinity that induces unique geometrical shapes and drastically affects the optoelectronic properties of the thin film. By identifying the precise nature of these specific species, the multi‐scale approach provides insights into the degradation mechanisms of hybrid perovskite materials, which can be used to improve PSC stability.
High‐Density CuInS2 Quantum Dots for Efficient and Stable CO2 Electroreduction
Authors: Chen Fanrong , Lu Xiaoying , Ding Liang , Lyu Zhen‐Hua , Zhang Xiaoling , Fu Jiaju , Hu Jin‐Song
Published: October 2023

Electrochemically converting CO2 back into fuels and chemicals is promising in alleviating the greenhouse effect worldwide. Various high‐efficiency catalysts have been achieved, yet the unsatisfied structural stability under CO2 electrolysis conditions restricts their practical application. Herein, a sub‐5 nm sized CuInS2 quantum dots (CIS‐QDs) based electrocatalyst for converting CO2 into CO are developed. Taking advantage of the stable M─Ch (metal‐chalcogenide) covalent bonds, and unique p‐block metal properties, the as‐prepared catalyst exhibits excellent structural stability under large overpotentials and can achieve a high CO Faradaic efficiency (FE) of 86% (total CO2 reduction FE of 89%) at −0.65 V versus reversible hydrogen electrode with long‐term durability of 40 h and outstanding current densities of 10.6 mA cm−2 simultaneously. Furthermore, detailed electrochemical analyses revealed that the excellent performance of the as‐prepared catalysts shall be attributed to the high‐density active sites and fast charge transfer brought by the ultrasmall size of CIS‐QDs. This work provides insights into the design of high‐density and stable catalytic sites for developing high‐performance electrocatalysts.
Impact of Ternary Solvent on the Grain Size and Defects of Perovskite Layer to Realize a Stable Morphology for Efficient Inverted Solar Cells
Authors: Lee Chang Min , Shah Syed Hamad Ullah , Ko Keum-Jin , Kim Dong Hyun , Kim Tae Wook , Cho Hyun Woo , Kim Yeong Beom , Lee Jae Woo , Heo Kiseok , Kim Chul Hoon , Lee Hyun Jae , Lee Gyudo , Roh Seokbeom , Park Sanghyuk , Lee Sang Geul , Bae Tae-Sung , Yu Seung Min , Jin Jong Sung , Moon Heehun , Islam Amjad , Jesuraj P. Justin , Song Myungkwan , Kim Chang-Su , Ryu Seung Yoon
Published: October 2023

Recent reports reveal that a smooth and uniform surface morphology can endow perovskite solar cells with excellent stability and remarkable power conversion efficiency (PCE). Herein, a ternary solvent strategy is employed using dimethylformamide (DMF), dimethyl‐sulfoxide (DMSO), and γ‐butyrolactone (GBL) to improve contact between the charge transporting layers and the perovskite layer. This approach yields enhanced surface morphology, charge extraction, and passivation. The thermally stable intermediates generated through the ternary solvent promote uniform MAPbI3 films with a smooth surface. These intermediates reduce surface roughness, increase grain size, and fill voids or defects in MAPbI3 due to a strong interaction of ternary solvent. The PCE with the ternary solvent (DMF:GBL:DMSO) increases to 20.23% compared to binary solvents of GBL:DMSO and DMF:DMSO. Additionally, ternary solvent engineering is beneficial from an industrial perspective for achieving a stable and uniform morphology of perovskite in large‐area device fabrication.
EEG‐based biometric authentication system using convolutional neural network for military applications
Authors: Vadher Himanshu , Patel Pal , Nair Anuja , Vyas Tarjni , Desai Shivani , Gohil Lata , Tanwar Sudeep , Garg Deepak , Singh Anupam
Published: October 2023

In this technological era, as the need for security arises, the use of biometrics is increasing in authentication systems as a secure and convenient method of human identification and verification. Electroencephalogram (EEG) signals have gained significant attention among the various biometric modalities available because of their unique and unforgeable characteristics. In this study, we have proposed an EEG‐based multi‐subject and multi‐task biometric authentication system for the military applications that address the challenges associated with multi‐task variation in EEG signals. The proposed work considers the use of respective EEG signals for the access of artillery, entrance to highly confidential places for the military and so forth by authenticated personnel only. We have used a multi‐subject, multi‐session, and multi‐task () dataset. The dataset was partially preprocessed with basic signal processing techniques such as bad channel repairing, independent component analysis for artifact removal, downsampling to 250 Hz, and an audio filter of 0.01–200 Hz for signal improvisation. This partially preprocessed dataset was further processed and was used in our deep learning model (DL) architectures. For EEG‐based biometric authentication, convolutional neural network (CNN) outperforms many of the state‐of‐the‐art DL architectures with a validation accuracy of approximately 99.86%, training accuracy of 98.49% and precision, recall and F1‐score with values of 99.91% that makes this EEG‐based approach for authentication more reliable. The DL models were also compared based on training and inference time, where CNN used the most training time but took the least time to predict the output. We compared the performance of the CNN model for three preprocessing techniques by feeding mel spectrograms, chromagrams and mel frequency cepstral coefficients, out of which mel spectrograms provided better results. This proposed architecture proves to be robust and efficient for military applications.
Reduction Behavior of Hematite‐Biowaste Composite Pellets at Melting Temperature
Authors: Biswal Smitirupa , Pahlevani Farshid , Wang Wei , Sahajwalla Veena
Published: October 2023

The iron and steel industry is one of the prominent industrial sectors in the world since steel is a vital material with a wide range of applications in daily life. The ferrous industries are associated with various issues like extensive greenhouse gas emissions, energy‐intensive processes, and heavy reliance on fossil fuels and natural resources. At the same time, concern regarding waste generation and its management is taking up the momentum and calls are being made for recycling and green recovery. The reuse of waste materials in the manufacturing process can make the industries’ circular economy resilient. Thus, the current work is based on the usage of a biowaste, namely, spent coffee grounds for hematite reduction. Composite pellets of hematite and transformed‐spent coffee grounds (T‐SCGs) are heat‐treated at a melting temperature of 1550 °C. The effect of both binary and quaternary basicity on the reduction behavior is also studied. T‐SCGs have hydrogen in their molecular structure which enhances the reduction mechanism. Overall, the employment of biowaste for iron recovery will aid in making the industry sector more sustainable.
Arsenic removal using iron oxide nanoparticles produced employing a green synthesis approach
Authors: Mohan Devendra , Ranjan Ritesh , Kushwaha Rohit , Sonam  , Markandeya  , Shukla Sheo Prasad
Published: October 2023

Several adsorbents were prepared employing co‐precipitation, urea, ascorbic acid, and natural plant extracts and evaluated for the removal of arsenic from groundwater. Several parameters affecting adsorption, namely, initial arsenic concentration, pH, adsorbent dose, and contact time were studied in batch experiments. pH was found to be one of the most important parameters which affected adsorption, and it was most effective in the acidic pH range of 2–6. The optimum adsorbent dose varied from 0.24 g/L to 1.0 g/L for various methods and a contact time of 120 min. Maximum removal efficiency varied from 92% to 98% for various methods. Isotherms and kinetics studies were performed to determine the adsorption capacity and rate of reaction, respectively. The maximum adsorption capacities of 79.36 μg/g, 69.44 μg/g, 243.90 μg/g, and 101.01 μg/g could be obtained by the adsorbents produced through co‐precipitation, urea, ascorbic acid and natural plant extracts, respectively. The adsorbents prepared through co‐precipitation, urea and ascorbic acid followed Langmuir isotherm and adsorbents prepared using plant extracts followed Freundlich isotherm. Various characterization techniques, including XRD, BET, and SEM were employed for analysis of the adsorbents.
iSOUP-SymRF: Symbolic Feature Ranking with Random Forests in Online Multi-target Regression
Authors: Osojnik Aljaž , Panov Panče , Džeroski Sašo
Published: October 2023

The task of feature ranking has received considerable attention across various prediction tasks in the batch learning scenario, but not in the online learning setting. Available methods that estimate feature importances on data streams have thus far focused on ranking the features for the tasks of classification and occasionally multi-label classification. We propose a novel online feature ranking method for online multi-target regression, iSOUP-SymRF, which estimates feature importance scores based on the positions at which a feature appears in the trees of a random forest of iSOUP-Trees. By utilizing iSOUP-Trees, which can address multiple structured output prediction tasks on data streams, iSOUP-SymRF promises feature ranking across a variety of online structured output prediction tasks. We examine the robustness of iSOUP-SymRF and the feature rankings it produces in terms of the methods’ parameters: the size of the ensemble and the number of selected features. Furthermore, to show the utility of iSOUP-SymRF and its rankings we use them in conjunction with two state-of-the-art online multi-target regression methods, iSOUP-Tree and AMRules, and analyze the impact of adding features according to the rankings.
Quantum Carroll/fracton particles
Authors: Figueroa-O’Farrill José , Pérez Alfredo , Prohazka Stefan
Published: October 2023

Abstract

We classify and relate unitary irreducible representations (UIRs) of the Carroll and dipole groups, i.e., we define elementary quantum Carroll and fracton particles and establish a correspondence between them. Whenever possible, we express the UIRs in terms of fields on Carroll/Aristotle spacetime subject to their free field equations.

We emphasise that free massive (or “electric”) Carroll and fracton quantum field theories are ultralocal field theories and highlight their peculiar and puzzling thermodynamic features. We also comment on subtle differences between massless and “magnetic” Carroll field theories and discuss the importance of Carroll and fractons symmetries for flat space holography.
Celestial open strings at one-loop
Authors: Donnay Laura , Giribet Gaston , González Hernán , Puhm Andrea , Rojas Francisco
Published: October 2023

Abstract

We study celestial amplitudes in string theory at one-loop. Celestial amplitudes describe scattering processes of boost eigenstates and relate to amplitudes in the more standard basis of momentum eigenstates through a Mellin transform. They are thus sensitive to both the ultraviolet and the infrared, which raises the question of how to appropriately take the field theory limit of string amplitudes in the celestial basis. We address this problem in the context of four-dimensional genus-one scattering processes of gluons in open string theory which reach the two-dimensional celestial sphere at null infinity. We show that the Mellin transform commutes with the adequate limit in the worldsheet moduli space and reproduces the celestial one-loop field theory amplitude expressed in the worldline formalism. The dependence on α′ continues to be a simple overall factor in one-loop celestial amplitudes albeit with a power that is shifted with respect to tree-level, thus making manifest that the dimensionless parameter $$ {g}_{10}^2/{\alpha}^{\prime 3} $$

g
10
2

/

α

′
3

organizes the loop expansion in the celestial basis. The precise way in which the amplitudes scale with this parameter depends on the number of non-compact dimensions in such a way that in 4 dimensions the scaling with α′ does agree with that at tree-level.
Microbiological status of vegan ground meat products from German retail
Authors: Kabisch Jan , Joswig Gyde , Böhnlein Christina , Fiedler Gregor , Franz Charles M. A. P.
Published: October 2023

The microbiological status of 10 raw plant-based ground meat products was assessed to obtain insight into contamination levels and the types of bacteria present in these meat analogues. The total bacterial counts at the end of the best before date varied greatly from below 1.0 log10 CFU/g to 8.31 log10 CFU/g, while the median count was 3.89 log10 CFU/g. For each product, the lactic acid bacterial counts were similar, although generally between ca. 0.5 and 1 log10 lower than the total bacterial counts, indicating that lactic acid bacteria were a majority in the microbiota of these products. While the median counts of toxigenic pathogens were generally very low (< 1.0 log10 CFU/g), the maximum counts detected in some samples could reach up to ca. 3.0 log10 CFU/g for presumptive Staphylococcus aureus and Bacillus cereus. No Listeria monocytogenes colonies were obtained in this investigation; however, other Listeria spp. were detected. Thus, the results show that a (re)contamination of these products by pathogenic bacteria can be a potential safety concern. Furthermore, the detection of presumptive B. cereus and the isolation of various Clostridium species from these products indicates that spore-formers may have survived the food processing and therefore, could pose a safety concern, which should be assessed in further studies.
Bounds on the higher degree Erdős–Ginzburg–Ziv constants over $${\mathbb {F}}_q^n$$
Authors: Costa Simone , Della Fiore Stefano
Published: October 2023

The classical Erdős–Ginzburg–Ziv constant of a group G denotes the smallest positive integer $$\ell $$
ℓ
such that any sequence S of length at least $$\ell $$
ℓ
contains a zero-sum subsequence of length $$\exp (G).$$

exp
(
G
)
.

In the recent paper (Integers 22: Paper No. A102, 17 pp., 2022), Caro and Schmitt generalized this concept, using the m-th degree symmetric polynomial $$e_m(S)$$

e
m

(
S
)

instead of the sum of the elements of S and considering subsequences of a given length t. In particular, they defined the higher degree Erdős–Ginzburg–Ziv constants EGZ(t, R, m) of a finite commutative ring R and presented several lower and upper bounds to these constants. This paper aims to provide lower and upper bounds for EGZ(t, R, m) in case $$R={\mathbb {F}}_q^{n}.$$

R
=

F
q
n

.

The lower bounds here presented have been obtained, respectively, using the Lovász local lemma and the expurgation method and, for sufficiently large n,  they beat the lower bound provided by Caro and Schmitt for the same kind of rings. Finally, we prove closed form upper bounds derived from the Ellenberg–Gijswijt and Sauermann results for the cap-set problem assuming that $$q = p^k,$$

q
=

p
k

,

$$t = p,$$

t
=
p
,

and $$m=p-1.$$

m
=
p
-
1
.

Moreover, using the slice rank method, we derive a convex optimization problem that provides the best bounds for $$q = 3^k,$$

q
=

3
k

,

$$t = 3,$$

t
=
3
,

$$m=2,$$

m
=
2
,

and $$k=2, 3,4,5.$$

k
=
2
,
3
,
4
,
5
.
Brain organoids for hypoxic-ischemic studies: from bench to bedside
Authors: Gaston-Breton Romane , Maïza Letrou Auriane , Hamoudi Rifat , Stonestreet Barbara S. , Mabondzo Aloïse
Published: October 2023

Our current knowledge regarding the development of the human brain mostly derives from experimental studies on non-human primates, sheep, and rodents. However, these studies may not completely simulate all the features of human brain development as a result of species differences and variations in pre- and postnatal brain maturation. Therefore, it is important to supplement the in vivo animal models to increase the possibility that preclinical studies have appropriate relevance for potential future human trials. Three-dimensional brain organoid culture technology could complement in vivo animal studies to enhance the translatability of the preclinical animal studies and the understanding of brain-related disorders. In this review, we focus on the development of a model of hypoxic-ischemic (HI) brain injury using human brain organoids to complement the translation from animal experiments to human pathophysiology. We also discuss how the development of these tools provides potential opportunities to study fundamental aspects of the pathophysiology of HI-related brain injury including differences in the responses between males and females.
Mathematical Theory of Compressible Magnetohydrodynamics Driven by Non-conservative Boundary Conditions
Authors: Feireisl Eduard , Gwiazda Piotr , Kwon Young-Sam , Świerczewska-Gwiazda Agnieszka
Published: October 2023

We propose a new concept of weak solution to the equations of compressible magnetohydrodynamics driven by ihomogeneous boundary data. The system of the underlying field equations is solvable globally in time in the out of equilibrium regime characteristic for turbulence. The weak solutions comply with the weak–strong uniqueness principle; they coincide with the classical solution of the problem as long as the latter exists. The choice of constitutive relations is motivated by applications in stellar magnetoconvection.
The influence of illumination regimes on the structure of ant (Hymenoptera, Formicidae) community composition in urban habitats
Authors: Stukalyuk S. , Maák I. E.
Published: October 2023

The reliance on visual cues can vary among ant species living in different habitats, and is mostly influenced by the level of ambient illumination and the morphological adaptations of ant species that can determine their period of daily activity. Thus, different illumination regimes might affect ant community composition in habitats with different ambient illumination intensities. Despite this, in the literature, information is scarce about the effects of ambient illumination on ant activity. In the present study, we investigated the effect of ambient illumination intensity on the activity of ant species and their community composition under herbaceous and woody plants in 24 localities from Kyiv and Kyiv region, Ukraine. Our results showed that the ambient illumination properties of the habitat type affect the presence of ant species and the activity of their workers. In open habitats, the maximum ambient illumination had a negative effect, whereas in closed, woody habitats the maximum ambient illumination and tree circumference generally had a positive effect on the number of non-dendrobiotic ant individuals found on individual plants. The dendrobiotic species were less affected by the maximum illumination intensity. Although, in closed habitats, the effect of the previous variables and their interaction had species-specific aspects. Based on the former, we can tell that more structured forest habitats can provide broader illumination intensity ranges, allowing more ant species to coexist. However, similar illumination intensity ranges can lead to overlaps in the activity of ant species under the same illumination conditions, especially in open habitats. The outcomes of these interactions are highly influenced by larger trees that besides lowering illumination intensities, can enhance ant worker activity and promote species coexistence.
Quadriceps tendon autograft has similar clinical outcomes when compared to hamstring tendon and bone–patellar tendon–bone autografts for revision ACL reconstruction: a systematic review and meta‐analysis
Authors: Ashy Cody , Bailey Evan , Hutchinson Joshua , Brennan Emily , Bailey Rachel , Michael Pullen William , Xerogeanes John W. , Slone Harris S.
Published: October 2023

Purpose

Research regarding revision anterior cruciate ligament reconstruction (RACLR) with quadriceps tendon (QT) autografts is lacking. The purpose of this study was to perform a systematic review and meta‐analysis of RACLR with QT and compare its patient outcomes to RACLR with hamstring tendon (HT) and bone–patellar tendon–bone (BTB) autografts.

Methods

Adhering to PRISMA guidelines, a search for studies using QT in RACLR was performed within PubMed, Scopus, and CINAHL from database date of inception through December 26, 2022. Primary outcomes sought included: failure rate, Lysholm scores, International Knee Documentation Committee (IKDC) scores, IKDC grades, arthrometric knee side‐to‐side differences (STSD), pivot shift grade, donor site morbidity, return to sport, visual analog scale (VAS) pain scores.

Results

Nine studies were included consisting of 606 RACLR: 349 QT, 169 HT, and 88 BTB. Overall failure rates were 7.6% QT, 13.3% HT, and 8.7% BTB. Mean weighted Lysholm scores were 85.8 ± 3.8 QT, 82.5 ± 3.8 HT and 86.6 ± 4.5 BTB. IKDC average scores were 82.3 ± 1.6 QT, 80.1 ± 1.7 HT, and 81.7 ± 5.5BTB. Combined rates of IKDC A/B grades were 88.4% and 80.0% for QT and HT, respectively. VAS average scores were 0.9 ± 1.1 QT, 1.4 ± 0.2 HT, and 0.7 ± 0.8 for BTB. Side‐to‐side difference was reported for QT and HT with average values of 1.7 ± 0.6 mm and 2.1 ± 0.5 mm, respectively. Grade 0 or 1 pivot shifts were reported in 96.2% of QT patients and 91.3% of HT. Donor site morbidity, only reported for QT and HT, was 14.6 ± 9.7% and 23.6 ± 14.1%, respectively. QT resulted in a mean Tegner score of 5.9 ± 1.5 versus HT 5.7 ± 1.5. Rate of return to pivoting sports was 38.0% QT, 48.6% HT, and 76.9% BTB. Across all outcomes, there was no significant difference when comparing QT to HT, QT to BTB, and QT compared to HT and BTB combined.

Conclusions

RACLR with QT yields satisfactory patient reported outcomes, satisfactory improvement in knee laxity, expected return to sport rates, and has an overall 7.6% failure rate. Outcomes are comparative to those of HT and BTB making it an acceptable graft choice for RACLR. Surgeons should consider using QT autograft for RACLR, especially when other autografts are unavailable.

Level of evidence

IV.
Asymptotic profiles for inhomogeneous heat equations with memory
Authors: Cortázar Carmen , Quirós Fernando , Wolanski Noemí
Published: October 2023

We study the large-time behavior in all $$L^p$$

L
p

norms of solutions to an inhomogeneous nonlocal heat equation in $${\mathbb {R}}^N$$

R

N

involving a Caputo $$\alpha $$
α
-time derivative and a power $$\beta $$
β
of the Laplacian when the dimension is large, $$N> 4\beta $$

N
>
4
β

. The asymptotic profiles depend strongly on the space-time scale and on the time behavior of the spatial $$L^1$$

L
1

norm of the forcing term.
Superior metal artifact reduction of tin-filtered low-dose CT in imaging of lumbar spinal instrumentation compared to conventional computed tomography
Authors: Stern Christoph , Wanivenhaus Florian , Rosskopf Andrea B. , Farshad Mazda , Sutter Reto
Published: October 2023

Objective

To compare the image quality of low-dose CT (LD-CT) with tin filtration of the lumbar spine after metal implants to standard clinical CT, and to evaluate the potential for metal artifact and dose reduction.

Materials and methods

CT protocols were optimized in a cadaver torso. Seventy-four prospectively included patients with metallic lumbar implants were scanned with both standard CT (120 kV) and tin-filtered LD-CT (Sn140kV). CT dose parameters and qualitative measures (1 = worst,4 = best) were compared. Quantitative measures included noise, signal-to-noise ratio (SNR), contrast-to-noise ratio (CNR), and the width and attenuation of the most prominent hypodense metal artifact. Standard CT and LD-CT were assessed for imaging findings.

Results

Tin-filtered LD-CT was performed with 60% dose saving compared to standard CT (median effective dose 3.22 mSv (quartile 1–3: 2.73–3.49 mSv) versus 8.02 mSv (6.42–9.27 mSv; p < .001). Image quality of CT and tin-filtered low-dose CT was good with excellent depiction of anatomy, while image noise was lower for CT and artifacts were weaker for tin-filtered LD-CT. Quantitative measures also revealed increased noise for tin-filtered low-dose CT (41.5HU), lower SNR (2) and CNR (0.6) compared to CT (32HU,3.55,1.03, respectively) (all p < .001). However, tin-filtered LD-CT performed superior regarding the width and attenuation of hypodense metal artifacts (2.9 mm and -767.5HU for LD-CT vs. 4.1 mm and -937HU for CT; all p < .001). No difference between methods was observed in detection of imaging findings.

Conclusion

Tin-filtered LD-CT with 60% dose saving performs comparable to standard CT in detection of pathology and surgery related complications after lumbar spinal instrumentation, and shows superior metal artifact reduction.