bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Application of sulfur-based composite materials in the positive electrode of lithium-sulfur batteries
Authors: Li Tonglin
Published: July 2024

Traditional lithium-ion batteries are no longer able to keep up with the growing need for energy storage efficiency in areas like electric cars and renewable energy storage. Because of their great energy density, affordability, and environmental friendliness, lithium-sulfur batteries are regarded as a very promising solution for secondary battery systems. Sulfur-based compounds are an essential part of lithium-sulfur batteries and have a direct impact on the battery’s energy density and performance. However, sulfur-based compounds are easily soluble in electrolytes and have low conductivity, which shortens battery cycle life and energy efficiency. Sulfur dissolution can be successfully inhibited and capacitance may be enhanced by optimizing the structure and characteristics of sulfur-based materials, which will improve the overall performance of lithium-sulfur batteries. To enhance the performance of lithium-sulfur batteries, this article suggests three modification techniques for sulfur-based materials. These techniques mostly include compounding sulfur with carbon compounds, metal oxides, and polymers. This article also outlines the shortcomings of the present lithium-sulfur battery research and looks forward to the future development direction.
Strategies for electrolyte modification of lithium-ion batteries under low-temperature environments
Authors: Xu Sheng
Published: July 2024

Because of their high energy density, high voltage platform, extended cycle life, lack of memory effect, low self-discharge rate, environmental friendliness, and quick charging, lithium-ion batteries, or LIBs, are a vital component of contemporary electronic gadgets. Temperature has a complicated and wide-ranging effect on lithium-ion batteries, though. Lithium-ion batteries will have much-reduced performance, particularly in low-temperature conditions. The total performance of batteries is significantly impacted by the quality and performance of electrolytes in China. In particular, the electrolyte’s purpose in lithium-ion batteries is primarily to convey lithium ions; the battery’s ability to function at low temperatures is greatly influenced by the electrolyte’s ion conductivity and SEI film-forming capabilities. Thus, this article begins by providing an overview of the fundamental composition and properties of lithium-ion batteries. The impact of low-temperature circumstances on lithium ion performance was then discussed. Lastly, many modification techniques were suggested from the electrolyte’s point of view to enhance lithium-ion battery performance in low-temperature settings.
Properties, Preparation, and Application of Carbon Nanotubes
Authors: Liu Tingliang
Published: July 2024

Carbon nanotubes (CNTs), due to their unique one-dimensional nanostructures and extraordinary physicochemical properties, have been a research hotspot in the field of materials science and nanotechnology. Their extremely high strength, good electrical conductivity, and excellent thermal conductivity make CNTs promising for a wide range of applications in many fields. In the medical field, CNTs are used in drug delivery, tumor treatment, and bioimaging due to their excellent biocompatibility and tunable surface properties. Especially in tumor treatment, CNTs can be used as drug carriers to deliver anti-tumor drugs directly to the lesion site and reduce damage to normal tissues. In the energy sector, the application of CNTs is mainly focused on energy storage devices and photovoltaic cells. Their high conductivity and large specific surface area make them ideal electrode materials, especially in supercapacitors and lithium-ion batteries. In addition, CNTs can also improve the photoelectric conversion efficiency of photovoltaic cells and promote the development of renewable energy technologies. In the future, the research of CNTs will continue to deepen, not only to find more efficient and economical applications in existing application fields, but also to explore new application fields, such as applications in environmental monitoring and biosensors. With the continuous progress of preparation technology and the reduction of cost, CNTs are expected to be commercialized in more fields and make greater contributions to the development of human society.
Hydrogen storage metal-organic frameworks: From design to synthesis
Authors: Chen Haotian
Published: July 2024

For many years, there has been great interest in metal-organic frameworks, or MOFs. MOFs are a family of crystalline hybrid organic-inorganic compounds made up of strong coordination interactions connecting metal molecules to organic ligands. Due to their vast specific surface area, structural diversity, and adjustable pore size and functionality, they are highly advantageous in a variety of applications, including hydrogen storage. As a result, MOFs have been thoroughly researched. This study examines the drawbacks of traditional hydrogen storage methods before concentrating on MOFs’ potential as a cutting-edge material to get around these issues. The work also illustrates the benefits of MOFs in enhancing hydrogen adsorption performance by examining the synthesis techniques, functionalization tuning strategies, and their use with metal nanoparticle composites. Simultaneously, the significance of fine-tuning the functionalization and optimizing the performance of MOFs is underscored, and their potential to foster hydrogen-based economic growth is anticipated.
Metal-Organic Frameworks Synthetic Approaches and Applications in Energy Industry
Authors: Liu Kairui
Published: July 2024

The search for innovative solutions to environmental and social challenges is undoubtedly crucial in materials science, especially in the field of metal-organic frameworks (MOFs). This review describes the history of MOFs, as well as seven methods of MOF synthesis and their advantages and disadvantages, such as hydrothermal method, microwave-assisted method, and so on. Humans have made significant progress in synthesizing various MOF materials for gas storage, transportation, and other applications, but there is still much to be explored and understood about these complex substances. As researchers strive to discover new materials and their potential uses, a huge untapped area of potential awaits further exploration. Ultimately, the key to meeting environmental and societal challenges lies in the advancement and creative design of MOFs.
Preparation and Application Prospects of Nano Chitin
Authors: Du Xiangning , Wen Junchao
Published: July 2024

Over recent years, the global ecological environment has deteriorated, and it is urgent to use environmentally friendly renewable energy as an alternative. Chitin nanofiber (ChNF) appears in the public view as a biomass material with biodegradability and biocompatibility. This paper elaborates on the preparation methods, application fields, and prospects of chitin nanofiber. Firstly, the preparation steps of chitin nanofibe including purification of chitin and the preparation of nano size chitin are listed. Based on this, the common chitin purification methods, such as the acid-base method, Ethylene diamine tetra acetic acid (EDTA) auxiliary method, and microwave method, are discussed. In terms of the nano fibrillation, the mixing of chemical and mechanical methods is introduced to improve the products’ purity and yield. Secondly, due to the unique features of chitin nanofiber, its potential in biomedical, food security, and absorbent for waste water treatment is promising. However, the large-scale application of nano chitin still faces some obstacles including large energy consumption in the preparation process, high catalyst treatment cost, and unstable production rate. This paper expects that future researchers can focus on achieving the large-scale and high-quality production of chitin nanofiber and exploring its great potential.
Materials Challenges in the Development of All-Electric Aircraft
Authors: Fei Yue
Published: July 2024

The global climate crisis has worsened as greenhouse gas emissions from production and transport activities have increased significantly. The idea of an all-electric airplane has been put out in reaction to the aviation industry’s fast expansion’s negative environmental effects. The traditional aviation model has brought huge economic benefits while leading to an increase in greenhouse gas emissions. This paper delves into the urgent need for aviation to reduce greenhouse gas emissions in the face of the global climate crisis and highlights the potential of electric aircraft as a key solution. The paper highlights the role that electric aircraft plays in cutting emissions and advancing sustainable development. It also outlines the obstacles that need to be overcome and future directions for advancement in the domains of integrated design, electric motor technology, and battery technology. Recent material innovations are also in focus, particularly the promise of high-temperature superconductors in electrical motor applications. Future research directions will focus on nanomaterials improvement, green production, and the development of high-performance environmentally friendly materials.
The impacts of factors existed in surrounding environment on the synthesis of nutritional substances abundant in citrus
Authors: Cui Tengyu
Published: July 2024

Carotenoids, vitamin C and flavonoids are mainly enriched in citrus fruits, and the effects of different environmental factors such as light, temperature, pH and humidity on the synthesis of these three nutrients are discussed. Because of its rich nutrients and delicious taste, citrus has become the first choice of fruit in People’s Daily life. Carotenoids are important nutrients and natural pigments in citrus, and their synthesis is affected by light, temperature and pH value. However, this paper does not delve into the effects of different environmental factors on the synthesis of common nutrients in plants, such as water, fructose, and fruit acids, which require further discussion. Through these discussions, this review aims to provide a scientific basis for the cultivation of citrus and other fruits, promote sustainable agricultural production, and provide consumers with more healthy and nutritious fruit choices.
Preservation and renewal of historical and cultural blocks under urban RBD model: A case study of Baoding West Street
Authors: Sun Qiyue
Published: July 2024

Preservation and renewal of historical and cultural blocks is an important part of the urban renewal process. At present, China pays more and more attention to the protection of historical and cultural blocks, how to make historical and cultural blocks revitalized in modern cities is a problem worth thinking about. The urban RBD model provides new ideas for the protection and renewal of historical and cultural blocks. This paper intends to summarize the development and characteristics of the urban RBD model by using the literature research method and the field research method, conduct case studies on historical and cultural block-type RBDs, and try to summarize the theoretical methods for the protection and renewal of historical and cultural block-type RBDs; it also combs through the historical lineage and the business mode of Baoding’s West Street, summarizes the existing problems, and proposes a renovation strategy for West Street by using the methods of historical and cultural block-type RBDs’ protection and renewal. West Street proposes a transformation strategy.
Application of Biosensors in Non-invasive Blood Glucose Monitoring
Authors: Zhang Huaiyue
Published: July 2024

Blood glucose monitoring is essential for managing conditions like diabetes and liver dysfunction, with a growing need among various population groups, including the elderly, pregnant, and individuals engaging in specific dietary and exercise regimes. The technology for glucose monitoring is divided into invasive and non-invasive methods. Invasive techniques, while accurate, involve bodily fluid extraction, posing risks of infection and inconvenience for frequent monitoring. Conversely, non-invasive methods, which include biosensors that analyze internal signals, offer a safer and more user-friendly alternative, providing instant feedback on glucose levels. Recent advancements in biosensor technology have focused on enhancing accuracy, biocompatibility, and ease of use, with significant progress in areas like optical and electrochemical sensors. These developments aim to offer more reliable, convenient, and comprehensive glucose monitoring solutions, leveraging innovations in sensor technology and data analysis to cater to the diverse needs of individuals requiring blood glucose tracking.
Advances in biosensors for poison detection applications
Authors: Gao Aidai
Published: July 2024

This paper discusses the applications and challenges of biosensors in drug and toxin detection, highlighting the practical value of biosensors and their role in forensic investigations, medical research, and environmental monitoring. Because drug abuse poses a major threat to human health and society, there is an urgent need for technologies that can quickly, portable, and sensitively detect drugs in common biological samples. This paper introduces the detection of animal and plant toxins, including snake venom, spider toxins, cyanide in plants, etc., and discusses the importance of detection of these toxins in medical and forensic fields. The development of biosensor technology, including the application of optical biosensors and electrochemical biosensors based on enzyme inhibition, is also summarized, and the role of these sensors in drug research and environmental monitoring is introduced. In addition, the paper highlights the potential of nanotechnology to improve the sensitivity and specificity of biosensors, as well as the future applications of biosensors in health, environmental monitoring, and agriculture. Finally, the paper points out the limitations of current biosensor research, and puts forward the direction of future research, emphasizing the need to develop simpler, more sensitive and more specific biosensors to broaden their practical applications.
Spinal Cord Stimulation for Pain Management: Beyond Tonic
Authors: Zhang Xuanming
Published: July 2024

With over 1 billion chronic pain patients worldwide, there is an imperative need for effective solutions to manage pain. Electrical spinal cord stimulators were invented as a novel way of treating pain using the theoretical foundations of Gate Control Theory. When first developed in 1967, electrical spinal cord stimulators apply tonic electrical pulses of 40-60Hz on the spinal cord, but today a need for more efficient, paresthesia-free stimulators is eminent. This paper examines recent advancements in two alternatives to 40- 60Hz tonic waveforms: High Frequency (HF) and Burst. Both protocols showed promising results on chronic pain patients with failed surgeries before, where tonic stimulation is mainly used. They also offered optimal relief to groups where tonic stimulation is less effective: HF showed positive impacts on diabetic neuropathway patients and patients with upper body chronic pain, areas where paresthesia from tonic stimulations can cause problems. Burst showed positive influences on patients’ psychological and motivational wellbeing, which can also increase the possibility of successful pain relief.
Neural interface technology for human-computer interaction
Authors: Wang Ruoqian
Published: July 2024

The Brain-Computer Interface (BCI) is a highly promising way to establish a direct link between the human brain and external computerised apparatus, enabling individuals with severe disabilities to interact with their external environment. By harnessing BCI technology, these individuals can exert control over specific computerized devices, ranging from computers and wheelchairs to neural prosthetics, thus facilitating meaningful interaction with the world around them. However, while BCI technology holds immense potential, several aspects remain in conceptual stages or are constrained by specific circumstances. This review offers a comprehensive exploration of the fundamental principles governing BCI classification. It also provides an overview of applications that BCI has to offer and its multifaceted utility, particularly in the application of neuroprostheses, in conjunction with FES, and in the rehabilitation of stroke and epilepsy. The review navigates through the landscape of BCI application technologies, elucidating their challenges, and constraints. After analyses, potential developments in BCI technology were identified, and possible future challenges were highlighted.
Risk factors contributing to the development of Alzheimer’s disease
Authors: Sun Tianhao
Published: July 2024

Alzheimer’s disease (AD) is a neurodegenerative disease that progresses in older people. People who have AD diagnosis will suffer impaired cognitive function, memory, language, independence, and a decrease in life quality. There are risk factors, which can trigger AD. There are several factors collected from existing resources such as sleep disorders, diet, viral infection, pesticides, depression. These factors are worth noting because many research papers admit the association between AD and these factors. By analyzing experiments in rats, and fruit flies and investigations in human patients, it is likely to understand the mechanism of how these factors induce AD. Evidence provided in the paper may help institutions and hospitals research and develop targeted drugs and environmental therapy to cure AD in the near future. However, this paper may provide new ideas for researchers to complete details of these risk factors. Further research is required to obtain more data and evidence to solidify the correlation between AD and factors.
Application of the biosensors in autoimmune diseases
Authors: Yang Chencan
Published: July 2024

Autoimmune diseases (AIDs) are chronic and multifactorial conditions resulting from the interaction between genetics, epigenetics, and environmental factors. The variety of these illnesses’ forms and presentations makes early detection of them difficult. To enable prompt intervention, biosensors have demonstrated efficacy in identifying biomarkers that signify the early stages of a disease. Biosensors have been developed since the first oxygen biosensor was invented in 1956, including wearable biosensors, which can monitor physiological parameters to detect autoimmune diseases early. Early detection is crucial to reducing mortality rates and minimizing the potential for disability, discomfort, drug reactions, and financial loss. Biosensors hold great promise for the future of autoimmune disease diagnosis and treatment, and the continued advancement and innovation in biosensor technology will increase the potential for early detection and prevention of autoimmune diseases. This paper reviews various types of biosensors for the detection and treatment of autoimmune diseases, highlighting their importance in the field and prospects for future development and application.
The impact of the ketogenic diet on Alzheimer’s disease
Authors: Huang Minzhi
Published: July 2024

Alzheimer’s disease (AD) is a neurological illness that causes memory loss and mental decline. Many are contemplating a Ketogenic diet (KD) as an Alzheimer’s treatment due to its neuroprotective effects. By modifying brain metabolism, decreasing inflammation, and guarding against neurodegenerative processes, KD halts cognitive decline, enhances cognition, and gives therapeutic advantages. According to prior research, the KD combats inflammatory and apoptotic mediators in Alzheimer’s, protects brain cells, and influences amyloid plaques and tau protein. Animal and human research studies illustrate that the KD and supplements remedy brain inflammation, cognition, and metabolism. The KD works better with other AD treatments like exercise, forming a multi-domain strategy. However, the present research is frequently small and short-term, requiring big, long-term trials for more convincing data. This study suggests that optimizing the KD, evaluating particular fat sources, and constantly monitoring carbohydrate consumption are essential to achieve promising cognitive function and quality of life improvements. However, large-scale, long-term research and diet optimization is needed to fully understand the diet’s effect and potential to improve Alzheimer’s patients’ lives.
Predicting Obesity Risk Through Lifestyle Habits: A Comparative Analysis of Machine Learning Models
Authors: Wang Xiaotian
Published: July 2024

This paper explores the escalating global concern of obesity, emphasizing the significance of identifying high-risk individuals to deploy targeted intervention strategies. Employing the University of California, Irvine (UCI) Machine Learning Repository dataset of 2,111 subjects from diverse regions, the classification of obesity levels was based on the Mexican Normativity, which closely aligns with Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) standards. The primary objective was to assess the predictive capabilities of an array of machine learning models in forecasting obesity levels based on lifestyle habits, excluding direct parameters like height and weight. An enhanced Logistic regression model, LogitBoost model, Random Forests, XGBoost, Support Vector Machines (SVM), Naive Bayes classifiers, and K-Nearest Neighbors (KNN) were employed for analysis. Through cross-validation, this research determined the hierarchy of factors contributing to obesity, spotlighting variables like ‘Consumption of food between meals’ and ‘Obesity among family members’ as major contributors. The results indicate that while LogitBoost performed optimally among Boost algorithms, its performance was slightly below traditional methods. This study’s unique approach of emphasizing lifestyle predictors, excluding direct height and weight variables, underscores the need for targeted, personalized intervention strategies in managing the global obesity epidemic.
Changes in new strains of the novel coronavirus interact with the environment
Authors: Cheng Ming , Li Puiwan , Li Yixuan
Published: July 2024

The coronavirus (COVID-19) has several mutations since its initial outbreak. These mutations involve changes in its genetic material, particularly in the spike protein that enables the virus to enter human. These mutations have resulted in different variants of the virus, such as the Alpha, Beta, Gamma, and Delta variants, which have been identified in different regions. These allosomes already led to increased transmissibility, potentially higher viral loads, and in some cases, to certain treatments or vaccines. In this article, the relationship between the evolution of the novel coronavirus and its spread in the population environment in recent years is analysed in detail,with following parts. Firstly,the immune escape which deeply influenced the mutation in virus is discussed. The immune system can recognize the virus and avoid it from entering the body.As a result ,one of the reasons the novel coronavirus evolved was to evade the immune response.Secondly,the mutation is discussed in terms of viral structure. And in the last subtopic,the connection between coronaviruses and their host is described.The phenomenon which is called cross -transmission greatly increased the spread out of virus,by viruses moving from host to host.Through sorting out the existing knowledge and research, this paper clearly analyzes the causes and influencing factors of virus evolution from a multi-dimensional perspective.
La parasitologie, l’enseignement et l’écriture : trois de ses passions
Authors: Barbaray Maryvonne
Published: July 2024

Le Professeur Gilles Bourdoiseau nous a quittés le 18 mars dernier, à l’âge de 71 ans, victime d’une tumeur cérébrale dévastatrice.
Erfahrungen und Auswirkungen von nicht-pharmakologischen Maßnahmen in
der COVID-19 Pandemie bei Jugendlichen – eine Querschnittstudie unter 649
Schüler:innen der 10. Klassen in Witten (GeWIT-Studie)
Authors: Wiesheu Paul , Heye Anne-Lisa , Tillmann Judith , Dianti Nessia Rachma , Völkel Klaus , Weckbecker Klaus , Münster Eva
Published: July 2024

Ziel Die vorliegende Arbeit untersucht die Auswirkungen der
COVID-19-Pandemie und der damit verbundenen nicht-pharmakologischen Maßnahmen
auf Schüler:innen in Deutschland. Fokus liegt dabei auf den subjektiven
Erfahrungen der Schüler:innen. Weiterhin soll untersucht werden, inwiefern eine
Quarantäne oder Erkrankung an COVID-19 die Wahrnehmung der Schüler:innen
bezüglich der Erkrankung und den Schutzmaßnahmen beeinflusst hat und welche
Gruppen davon besonders betroffen waren.

Methodik Von November 2021 bis Februar 2022 wurde eine standardisierte,
schriftliche Befragung von Schüler:innen der zehnten Klassen der neun
städtischen Sekundarschulen der Stadt Witten durchgeführt. Mit Hilfe
deskriptiver Statistik wurden die Daten analysiert und ausgewertet.

Ergebnisse 98,3% der anwesenden Schüler:innen (n=649) wurden in die
Befragung eingeschlossen. Von dem Studienkollektiv gaben 12,9% an, schon an
COVID-19 erkrankt gewesen zu sein und 43,6% waren schon einmal in Quarantäne.
27,3% der Schüler:innen gaben an, dass das Maskentragen ihnen nicht leicht fiel,
während 65,2% Maskentragen als leicht empfanden. Weiterhin gaben 33,4% an, dass
ihnen der Distanzunterricht geschadet hätte und 6,9% der Schüler:innen
berichteten, dass sie in der Corona-Zeit mehr Gewalt erfahren hätten. Angst vor
Corona wurde von 10% der Schüler:innen angegeben, diese wurde weniger häufig
berichtet, wenn die Schüler:innen bereits an COVID-19 erkrankt waren oder in
Quarantäne waren. 75,7% gaben an, keine Angst vor Corona zu haben.

Schlussfolgerung Die COVID-19-Pandemie und die damit einhergehenden
nicht-pharmakologischen Maßnahmen stellten große Herausforderungen und eine
starke Belastung an die Schüler:innen dar. Mithilfe der vorliegenden
Untersuchung ergaben sich Hinweise, dass die COVID-19-Pandemie und/oder die
Maßnahmen negative Auswirkungen auf die Schüler:innen hatten. Insbesondere im
Hinblick auf vulnerable Gruppen bspw. geschlechtlich diverse Schüler:innen oder
sozioökonomisch benachteiligte Schüler:innen sollten die Maßnahmen kritisch
betrachtet werden. Bedarfsgerechte und zielgruppenorientierte Aufklärung kann
dazu beitragen, die Akzeptanz und das Sicherheitsempfinden unter Schüler:innen
zu erhöhen.
Outcomes in Pregnancies Complicated with Preterm Hypertensive Disorders with and without Late Antenatal Corticosteroids
Authors: Regev Noam , Axelrod Michal , Berkovitz Chen , Yoeli-Ulman Rakefet , Mazaki-Tovi Shali , Sivan Eyal , Sibai Baha , Fishel Bartal Michal
Published: July 2024

Objective This study aimed to determine whether administration of a late preterm (34–36 weeks) course of antenatal corticosteroids (ACS) is associated with improved short-term neonatal outcomes among pregnancies complicated with hypertensive disorders of pregnancy (HDP) who delivered in the late preterm period.

Study Design A single tertiary center retrospective cohort study, including pregnant individuals with singleton fetuses who delivered between 34.0 and 36.6 weeks following an HDP diagnosis. Exclusion criteria were major fetal anomalies and treatment with ACS before 34 weeks. Cases were divided into two groups: exposed group, consisting of individuals treated with a late ACS course, and nonexposed group, receiving no ACS. The primary outcome was a composite adverse neonatal outcome, including intensive care unit admission, oxygen treatment, noninvasive positive pressure ventilation, mechanical ventilation, respiratory distress syndrome, transient tachypnea, or apnea of prematurity. Secondary neonatal outcomes included birth weight, Apgar score, intraventricular hemorrhage, necrotizing enterocolitis, bronchopulmonary dysplasia, surfactant use, hypoglycemia, hyperbilirubinemia, sepsis, and neonatal death. Multivariable regression models were used to determine adjusted odds ratio (aOR)and 95% confidence intervals (CIs).

Results Of 7,624 preterm singleton deliveries during the study period, 438 (5.7%) were diagnosed with HDP and delivered between 34.0 and 36.6 weeks. Infants who received ACS were diagnosed more commonly with fetal growth restriction (16.0 vs. 5.6%, p < 0.01) and were delivered at an earlier gestational age (GA) (mean GA: 35.6 vs. 36.3 weeks, p < 0.01). The composite neonatal morbidity did not differ between the groups after adjustments (aOR: 0.97, 95% CI: 0.47, 1.98). Neonatal hypoglycemia and hyperbilirubinemia were more common in the exposed group than in the nonexposed group (46.9 vs. 27.4%; aOR: 2.27; 95% CI: 1.26, 4.08 and 64.2 vs. 46.5%; aOR: 2.08; 95% CI: 1.16, 3.72 respectively).

Conclusion In people with HDP, a course of ACS given in the late preterm period did not improve neonatal morbidity.

Key Points
Randomized, Blinded, Controlled Clinical Trial of Polylactide–Collagen Scaffold in Treatment of Shoulder Osteochondritis Dissecans in Dogs
Authors: Heikkilä Helka , Reunanen Vilma , Hyytiäinen Heli K. , Junnila Jouni J.T. , Laitinen-Vapaavuori Outi , Keränen Pauli
Published: July 2024

Objective The aim of our study was to investigate a degradable polylactide–collagen scaffold (COPLA) in the treatment of shoulder osteochondritis dissecans (OCD) in dogs.

Study Design The study was a controlled, randomized, blinded clinical trial with a parallel group design with a 1.5-year follow-up. Twenty dogs with uni- or bilateral shoulder OCD (29 shoulders) were randomized to receive a COPLA or arthroscopic debridement only (Control). The outcome of treatment was assessed with gait and stance analysis, passive range of motion measurement, pain and lameness evaluation, Helsinki Chronic Pain Index, and computed tomography (CT).

Results Eighteen dogs (25 shoulders) completed the study. The clinical outcome variables improved significantly from baseline in COPLA and Control groups after treatment but no significant differences emerged between groups. Significantly fewer COPLA than Control shoulders had osteoarthritis (OA) in CT at 6 months (p = 0.019) but the difference was not significant at 1.5 years. At 1.5 years, all dogs were sound and pain-free in joint palpation, but OA was diagnosed in 13/18 dogs (18/25 shoulders) with CT.

Conclusion The results suggest that COPLA scaffold slowed down the development of OA at 6 months but it did not improve the clinical recovery or prevent OA in dogs with shoulder OCD in long-term follow-up at 1.5 years compared with arthroscopic debridement only. Regardless of the treatment method, clinical recovery was good, but OA developed in the majority of dogs.
Magnetoelastic resonators improve humidity sensing capabilities, wirelessly
Authors: Ikenson Ben
Published: July 2024

Ushering in a new generation of remote gas sensors.
Controllable coupling between fundamental modes in an asymmetric superconducting coplanar waveguide resonator
Authors: Mutsenik E. , Sultanov A. , Linzen S. , Schmelz M. , Kalacheva D. , Astafiev O. , Oelsner G. , Ziegler M. , Hübner U. , Stolz R. , Il'ichev E.
Published: July 2024

Controllable coupling between the odd and even fundamental modes of an asymmetric half-wavelength superconducting coplanar waveguide resonator is demonstrated. The resonant frequency of the even mode Ωe could be tuned by an external magnetic field, while the resonant frequency of the odd mode Ωo is field independent. To realize the tunability of Ωe, the central conductor of the NbN-based resonator was galvanically coupled to an array of Al-based rf-SQUIDs (radio frequency superconducting quantum interferometer device). These rf-SQUIDs are placed in only one resonator gap, ensuring its strong asymmetry. By adjusting the appropriate external magnetic flux Φ, equal frequencies of both modes were obtained. At this resonant point Ωo(Φ)=Ωe(Φ) an avoided level crossing of the eigenfrequencies was observed, demonstrating the coupling between the odd and even fundamental modes.
Accuracy limit of non-polarizable four-point water models: TIP4P/2005 vs OPC. Should water models reproduce the experimental dielectric constant?
Authors: Sedano L. F. , Blazquez S. , Vega C.
Published: July 2024

The last generation of four center non-polarizable models of water can be divided into two groups: those reproducing the dielectric constant of water, as OPC, and those significantly underestimating its value, as TIP4P/2005. To evaluate the global performance of OPC and TIP4P/2005, we shall follow the test proposed by Vega and Abascal in 2011 evaluating about 40 properties to fairly address this comparison. The liquid–vapor and liquid–solid equilibria are computed, as well as the heat capacities, isothermal compressibilities, surface tensions, densities of different ice polymorphs, the density maximum, equations of state at high pressures, and transport properties. General aspects of the phase diagram are considered by comparing the ratios of different temperatures (namely, the temperature of maximum density, the melting temperature of hexagonal ice, and the critical temperature). The final scores are 7.2 for TIP4P/2005 and 6.3 for OPC. The results of this work strongly suggest that we have reached the limit of what can be achieved with non-polarizable models of water and that the attempt to reproduce the experimental dielectric constant deteriorates the global performance of the water force field. The reason is that the dielectric constant depends on two surfaces (potential energy and dipole moment surfaces), whereas in the absence of an electric field, all properties can be determined simply from just one surface (the potential energy surface). The consequences of the choice of the water model in the modeling of electrolytes in water are also discussed.
Polarization control of lasing from few-layer MoTe2 coupled with the optical metasurface supporting quasi-trapped modes
Authors: Prokhorov A. V. , Toksumakov A. N. , Shesterikov A. V. , Maksimov F. M. , Tatmyshevskiy M. K. , Gubin M. Yu. , Kirtaev R. V. , Titova E. I. , Yakubovsky D. I. , Zhukova E. S. , Burdin V. V. , Novikov S. M. , Chernov A. I. , Ghazaryan D. A. , Arsenin A. V. , Volkov V. S.
Published: July 2024

The development of technology for integrating optical metaresonators with two-dimensional and layered van der Waals (vdW) materials opens up broad prospects for the creation of subdiffraction concentrators of electromagnetic energy, surface-emitting lasers, laser displays, and highly efficient nonlinear converters. In this work, we develop a straightforward strategy for the design and fabrication of surface-emitting laser devices based on few-layer transition metal dichalcogenides placed on the dielectric metasurfaces in the regime of quasi-trapped mode excitation. We optimize the parameters of MoTe2 flake and Si metasurface to achieve a positive feedback and to observe the lasing, resulting from their integration, with the predicted characteristics. Promising potential for the development of vdW-metalaser platform is associated with the possibility of simple polarization control of lasing regimes by employing the features of the bianisotropic response of the metasurface's building blocks.
Anisotropic optical response of Nb2SiTe4 under pressure
Authors: Qiao Liangxin , Hu Chuansheng , Lu Tenglong , Zhang Jiluan , Xie Shiyu , Liu Hengjie , Liu Miao , Qi Zeming
Published: July 2024

The optical response of a layered anisotropic crystal Nb2SiTe4 was investigated under varying pressure using synchrotron infrared spectroscopy, Raman spectroscopy, and first-principles calculation. This study revealed diverse trends in optical response and bandgap at different pressure levels. Below 5 GPa, the bandgap decreases rapidly due to the reduction of interlayer distance. The Raman and infrared optical response show significant changes at 11 and 21 GPa, suggesting structural and electronic structure transformation at these pressure points. Meanwhile, the optical responses exhibited distinct pressure effects along different crystal axes. Overall, these results provide valuable insights into the pressure-induced lattice deformation and optical transitions in Nb2SiTe4 and similar layered anisotropic materials, contributing to an insightful understanding of layered materials under pressure.
Exact analytical solution of the Flory–Huggins model and extensions to multicomponent systems
Authors: de Souza J. Pedro , Stone Howard A.
Published: July 2024

The Flory–Huggins theory describes the phase separation of solutions containing polymers. Although it finds widespread application from polymer physics to materials science to biology, the concentrations that coexist in separate phases at equilibrium have not been determined analytically, and numerical techniques are required that restrict the theory’s ease of application. In this work, we derive an implicit analytical solution to the Flory–Huggins theory of one polymer in a solvent by applying a procedure that we call the implicit substitution method. While the solutions are implicit and in the form of composite variables, they can be mapped explicitly to a phase diagram in composition space. We apply the same formalism to multicomponent polymeric systems, where we find analytical solutions for polydisperse mixtures of polymers of one type. Finally, while complete analytical solutions are not possible for arbitrary mixtures, we propose computationally efficient strategies to map out coexistence curves for systems with many components of different polymer types.
A novel approach for improving the magnetic properties and reducing the power loss of FeSi3.5 composite at 200–500 kHz band
Authors: Wu Peng , Cui Jinghao , Wang Ke , Hang Yuandong , Sheng Yanfei , Qiao Liang , Wang Tao , Li Fashen
Published: July 2024

The easy-plane FeSi3.5 composite with excellent magnetic properties and power loss is proposed. The magnetic properties and power loss of the easy-plane FeSi3.5 composite are studied by using the none easy-plane FeSi3.5 composite as a control. This easy-plane FeSi3.5 composite has an initial permeability of 62, resonance frequencies of 100 MHz and 1.5 GHz, and frequency stability of 40 MHz. In addition, the easy-plane FeSi3.5 composite has also excellent loss properties, with a high-frequency power loss of only 108.12 kW/m3. The three kinds of power loss of the easy-plane FeSi3.5 composite are reduced compared with the none easy-plane FeSi3.5 composite through loss separation, especially the eddy current loss and the excess loss. The eddy current loss and the excess loss of the easy-plane FeSi3.5 composite are only 0.03 and 12.93 kW/m3 at 500 kHz, which reduce by 99.44% and 92% compared with the none easy-plane FeSi3.5 composite. Effective reduction of power loss and significant improvement of magnetic properties are important for solving the problem of power loss encountered by power electronic devices at the kHz band. Therefore, the application of the easy-plane FeSi3.5 composite with excellent power loss and high-frequency magnetic properties becomes a novel approach to meet the practical application of power electronics. The method that increases the working frequency and decreases the maximum magnetic flux density keeping the energy transformation efficiency constant is a new method to reduce power loss at the wide frequency band.
Theoretical study of metal contacts to the monolayer ferroelectric material CuInP2S6 and its device applications
Authors: Qi Jialong , Han Huizhen , Yang Shuli , Kang Lili , Yin Huabing , Zhao Gaofeng
Published: July 2024

Two-dimensional (2D) ferroelectric materials exhibit significant potential for applications in nonvolatile memory and device miniaturization. In the device design stage, it is essential to consider the compatibility between 2D ferroelectric materials and three-dimensional (3D) metal. However, the interface between them introduces complex interactions that could impact the device's performance. In this work, based on the first-principles method, we simulate several 3D metal–2D ferroelectric material contact systems by utilizing different 3D metals in contact with the 2D ferroelectric monolayer CuInP2S6 (CIPS). By calculating the electronic structures of the systems, we find that the Cd(001)–CIPS configuration is the most stable structure, followed by the Ag(111)–CIPS and Au(111)–CIPS systems. Both the Cd(001)–CIPS and Ag(111)–CIPS systems undergo a transition from Schottky to Ohmic contact. Finally, we theoretically design a ferroelectric tunnel junction (FTJ) based on the Cd(001)–CIPS contact system, achieving a tunneling electroresistance ratio of 2.394×105% and a remarkably low resistance–area product of 0.78 Ω·μm2, which makes the proposed FTJ superior to the conventional 3D FTJ. This work provides some insights for the design of nonvolatile storage devices.
Event horizon kinetic Monte Carlo
Authors: Boulougouris Georgios C.
Published: July 2024

In this study, we present a novel approach for modeling the dynamics of stochastic processes. The fundamental concept involves constructing a stochastic Markov chain comprising states separated by more than one stochastic event. Initially, the method explores the network of neighboring states connected by stochastic events. This exploration results in a “horizon” of events leading to a set of “boundary” states at the periphery of each local network. Subsequently, the next member in the Markov chain is selected from the “boundary” states based on the probability of reaching each of the “boundary” states for the first time. Meanwhile, the simulation clock is updated according to the time required to reach the boundary for the first time. This can be achieved using an analytical approach, where the probability of reaching each boundary state for the first time is estimated using absorbing conditions for all boundary states in the analytical solution of a master equation describing the local network of states around each current state. The proposed method is demonstrated in modeling the dynamics in networks of stochastic reactions but can be easily applied in any stochastic system whose dynamics can be expressed via the solution of a master equation. It is expected to enhance the efficiency of event-driven Monte Carlo simulations, originally introduced by Gillespie and widely regarded as the gold standard in the field, especially in cases where the presence of events is characterized by different timescales.
Effects of water conservancy-project policies on lake ecology, rural economy, leisure-environment development, and local young people’s willingness to engage in leisure activities
Authors: Yang L. , Lin H. H. , Yen C. C. , Lin K. J. , Ya D.
Published: July 2024

Context No consensus has yet been formed on project development in lake-water conservancy on aspects such as lake quality, ecological environment, rural economy, social culture, leisure living environment and leisure aspirations due to the current lack of comprehensive discussion. Aims This study mainly uses the case of Sun Moon Lake in Taiwan to verify the impact of lake-tourism optimisation and water-conservancy projects on the rural economy, water quality, ecology and sustainable development of tourism for local young people in the area around the lake. Methods We employed open-sampling questionnaires and semistructured interviews to collect data and conducted multivariate analysis. Key results The study investigated the hypothesis that optimising water-conservancy projects for lake tourism creates a stable leisure and tourism environment in rural areas, enhances visibility, and increases emotional exchanges and the preservation of historic sites. However, problems such as excessive tourism waste and a lack of public facilities negatively affect local young consumers’ willingness to engage in tourism activities. Conclusions Improving problems in the villages, ecology and natural environment surrounding lakes that are being conserved can increase young local individuals’ willingness to engage in and share experiences of tourism activities. Implications If the local government can improve the issues of protected villages, ecology and the natural environment around the lake, it can increase the willingness of local young people to participate in and share their experiences in tourism activities.
Iron regulatory protein 2 contributes to antimicrobial immunity by preserving lysosomal function in macrophages
Authors: Cheng Chen , Xing Zhiyao , Zhang Wenxin , Zheng Lei , Zhao Hongting , Zhang Xiao , Ding Yibing , Qiao Tong , Li Yi , Meyron-Holtz Esther G. , Missirlis Fanis , Fan Zhiwen , Li Kuanyu
Published: July 2024

Colorectal cancer and Crohn’s disease patients develop pyogenic liver abscesses due to failures of immune cells to fight off bacterial infections. Here, we show that mice lacking iron regulatory protein 2 (
Irp2
), globally (

Irp2
−/−

) or myeloid cell lineage (
Lysozyme 2 promoter-driven, LysM
)-specifically (

Irp2
ΔLysM
)

, are highly susceptible to liver abscesses when the intestinal tissue was injured with dextran sodium sulfate treatment. Further studies demonstrated that
Irp2
is required for lysosomal acidification and biogenesis, both of which are crucial for bacterial clearance. In
Irp2
-deficient liver tissue or macrophages, the nuclear location of transcription factor EB (Tfeb) was remarkably reduced, leading to the downregulation of Tfeb target genes that encode critical components for lysosomal biogenesis. Tfeb mislocalization was reversed by hypoxia-inducible factor 2 inhibitor PT2385 and, independently, through inhibition of lactic acid production. These experimental findings were confirmed clinically in patients with Crohn’s disease and through bioinformatic searches in databases from Crohn’s disease or ulcerative colitis biopsies showing loss of IRP2 and transcription factor EB (TFEB)-dependent lysosomal gene expression. Overall, our study highlights a mechanism whereby Irp2 supports nuclear translocation of Tfeb and lysosomal function, preserving macrophage antimicrobial activity and protecting the liver against invading bacteria during intestinal inflammation.
Dynamic spatial representation of self and others’ actions in the macaque frontal cortex
Authors: Ninomiya Taihei , Isoda Masaki
Published: July 2024

Modulation of neuronal firing rates by the spatial locations of physical objects is a widespread phenomenon in the brain. However, little is known about how neuronal responses to the actions of biological entities are spatially tuned and whether such spatially tuned responses are affected by social contexts. These issues are of key importance for understanding the neural basis of embodied social cognition, such as imitation and perspective-taking. Here, we show that spatial representation of actions can be dynamically changed depending on others’ social relevance and agents of action. Monkeys performed a turn-taking choice task with a real monkey partner sitting face-to-face or a filmed partner in prerecorded videos. Three rectangular buttons (left, center, and right) were positioned in front of the subject and partner as their choice targets. We recorded from single neurons in two frontal nodes in the social brain, the ventral premotor cortex (PMv) and the medial prefrontal cortex (MPFC). When the partner was filmed rather than real, spatial preference for partner-actions was markedly diminished in MPFC, but not PMv, neurons. This social context-dependent modulation in the MPFC was also evident for self-actions. Strikingly, a subset of neurons in both areas switched their spatial preference between self-actions and partner-actions in a diametrically opposite manner. This observation suggests that these cortical areas are associated with coordinate transformation in ways consistent with an actor-centered perspective-taking coding scheme. The PMv may subserve such functions in context-independent manners, whereas the MPFC may do so primarily in social contexts.