bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Impact of INSAT‐3D land surface temperature assimilation via simplified extended Kalman filter‐based land data assimilation system on forecasting of surface fields over India
Authors: Lodh Abhishek , Routray Ashish , Dutta Devajyoti , Singh Vivek , George John. P.
Published: December 2024

The land surface temperature (LT) is a crucial variable that governs the energy and radiation budget of the earth's atmosphere and influences land‐atmosphere interactions. The LT plays a crucial role mainly in the short‐range forecast of a numerical weather prediction (NWP) model. The primary research goal in this research work undertaken is to assess the impact of assimilation of LT data from the Indian satellite (INSAT‐3D) into the NCMRWF global NWP model (NCUM) through a simplified Extended Kalman Filter (sEKF) land data assimilation system (LDAS), particularly important as there are few screen‐level observations over the region. A dedicated stand‐alone pre‐processing system has been designed to prepare LT observations in a compatible format for the land surface assimilation system. The approach for LT data assimilation from the INSAT‐3D satellite reduces the uncertainty associated with the initial state of LT analysis while simultaneously improving the accuracy of forecasts of near surface atmospheric variables. An observing system experiment (OSE) was carried out during both the summer (May) and winter (February) months by assimilating the INSAT‐3D LT data in a coupled land‐atmosphere analysis‐forecast system. The results obtained from the OSE demonstrate that the use of INSAT‐3D LT data improves the forecast skill of both maximum and minimum temperature over India, particularly in areas characterized by higher LT variability. The improvement is pronounced in forecasts of maximum (minimum) temperature during “Boreal” summer (“Boreal” winter) season. The verification scores also indicate that the incorporation of INSAT LT data substantially improves the NCUM model's forecast performance. By assimilating LT, the mean error of maximum and minimum temperature forecasts in India was decreased, accompanied by enhanced forecast accuracy within a time frame of approximately 24 h. The scores for the verification measures, specifically the Probability of Detection (POD), demonstrate a ~15% improvement in both the forecasts for maximum and minimum temperatures. This improves the temperature prediction as well as the ability to forecast intense weather episodes like cold spells and heat waves.
Improving blended probability forecasts with neural networks
Authors: Trotta Belinda
Published: December 2024

Operational forecasting systems often combine calibrated probabilistic outputs from several numerical weather prediction (NWP) models. A common approach is to use a weighted blend, with the more accurate models having higher weights. We show that this approach is not ideal and that using a simple neural network to combine forecasts yields better results. The sharpness of the forecast is increased, so that extreme events are more likely to be predicted. Improvements are also observed in accuracy as measured by the continuous rank probability score (CRPS) and reliability. The proposed neural network model has a simple architecture with few parameters, and training and inference can easily be done using a central processing unit. This makes it a practical option for improving the accuracy of blended operational forecasts.
Numerical Investigation of Over One Octave High‐Coherence Supercontinuum Generation in Mid‐Infrared Based on As2Se3 Tapered Photonic Crystal Fiber
Authors: Wen Jin , Yu Huimin , Wang Qian , Wu Zhengwei , Zhang Hui , Zhang Ying , Pan Yu
Published: December 2024

The generation of high‐coherence mid‐infrared (MIR) supercontinuum (SC) spanning over one octave in As2Se3 tapered photonic crystal fiber (As2Se3‐TPCF) is investigated through numerical simulations. Combined with the photonic crystal fiber and tapered fiber's structural characteristics, six As2Se3‐TPCFs with different tapered structures are designed. The tapered regions are the power function and cosine tapered structures, respectively, while the taper waist and the untapered region have the same structure. Moreover, the nonlinear coefficient of the taper waist is 2.23825 W−1m−1 calculated by the finite element method (FEM), and the zero‐dispersion wavelength (ZDW) in the down‐taper moves with the increase of transmission distance, shifted from 5.2 to 2.4 μm. The temporal and spectral features of the MIR SC generated in As2Se3‐TPCFs are numerically simulated by solving the generalized nonlinear Schrödinger equation (GNLSE), and the spectral broadening of As2Se3‐TPCFs is mainly caused by self‐phase modulation, Raman soliton self‐frequency shift, and dispersive wave generation. Finally, six As2Se3‐TPCFs with lengths of 0.1 m are pumped by short pulses with a center wavelength of 4.0 μm, pulse width of 40 fs, and pulse energy of 250 pJ, the results show that the linear tapered As2Se3‐TPCF and the cosine tapered As2Se3‐TPCF can achieve high‐coherence MIR spectra spanning 1.6 octaves, with spectral widths from 2.1 to 6.4 μm.
A Monte Carlo method to assess the spectral performance of photon counting detectors
Authors: Stierstorfer Karl , Hupfer Martin
Published: December 2024

Background

Assessing the performance of spectral detectors is an important but nontrivial problem. In the past few years, detective quantum efficiency‐(DQE)‐like quantities have been proposed that allow quantifying the spatial‐spectral performance for certain tasks. In previous publications, we have presented and validated an approach to determine detector properties like the modulation transfer function (MTF), the noise power spectrum (NPS), and the DQE based on an end‐to‐end Monte Carlo model of the detection process. This approach has so far not been used to assess the task‐dependent spatial‐spectral performance of detectors.

Purpose

In this paper, we extend the Monte Carlo method to detectors with several spectral thresholds and show how it can be used to derive all relevant quantities for the assessment of the spectral performance of such detectors. We describe the method in detail and apply it to four interesting types of realistic detectors.

Method

The method is an extension of the Monte Carlo method presented previously. An end‐to‐end Monte Carlo simulation of the detection process directly provides the statistics necessary to obtain all relevant performance parameters, including task‐based spectral DQEs. The method is applied to two direct converting photon counting detectors using CdTe and silicon: a CdTe‐based photon counter with additional coincidence counters and an optical counting system using LaBr3 as a scintillator.

Results

The task‐dependent DQEs show an advantage for CdTe, particularly for non‐spectral tasks. Silicon has an advantage for material decomposition tasks at lower frequencies. Both hypothetical systems, the CdTe detector with coincidence counters and the scintillator‐based detector, show the potential to outperform the two so‐far‐realized systems.

Conclusion

The method presented is a direct method to obtain all relevant quantities (MTF, NPS, various spectral DQEs) from an end‐to‐end Monte Carlo simulation of the detector. It allows for assessing detector systems currently being used and potential novel detector systems.
Structural and Material Properties of Chitin Nanofibers Produced Without Deacetylation Treatment
Authors: Tomita Yuka , Yagita Tomohito , Kaku Yuto , Saito Tsuguyuki , Fujisawa Shuji
Published: December 2024

Deacetylation pretreatment is commonly applied to chitin nanofibers to introduce positive charges on their surface, increasing their fibrillation efficiency in water. However, without this treatment, chitin cannot be easily disintegrated into fibers with widths of several nanometers. Here, we developed chitin nanofibers from crab shells without deacetylation treatment. The chitin nanofibers had an average width of 6.5 nm, a length of several micrometers, and good colloidal stability in water. The nanofibers formed more stable Pickering emulsions than did the deacetylated chitin nanofibers because of better adsorption at the water–oil interface. Even though the strength and toughness of the chitin nanofiber films were inferior to those of the films of the deacetylated chitin nanofibers, the chitin nanofibers possessed unique optical properties, combining high transparency and high haze, which was not observed in the deacetylated chitin nanofiber film. These characteristics indicate that the use of chitin nanofibers without deacetylation treatment could expand the range of material properties available for chitin‐based materials, providing new avenues for controlling material properties. Our research highlights the potential of using chitin nanofibers in the development of green, high‐performance materials for applications in cosmetics and optics, contributing valuable insights into the sustainable utilization of chitin‐based nanofibers.
Implementation effectiveness of an antenatal lifestyle intervention to optimize gestational weight gain in women with obesity
Authors: Goldstein Rebecca F. , Boyle Jacqueline A. , Cooray Shamil D. , Joham Anju E. , Fitz‐Gerald Alison L. , Enticott Joanne , Harrison Cheryce L. , Teede Helena J.
Published: December 2024

Objective

The objective of this study was to evaluate a lifestyle intervention implemented into routine antenatal care to optimize gestational weight gain (GWG) and outcomes using the Reach, Efficacy, Adoption, Implementation, and Maintenance (RE‐AIM) framework.

Methods

This study was an embedded pragmatic behavioral intervention delivered by a health coach and supported by a physician over five sessions for women with a prepregnancy BMI between 25 and 43 kg/m2 who were <23 weeks' gestation in an Australian maternity service. Both intervention and standard care received routine antenatal care. The primary outcome was effectiveness in reducing excess GWG, and the secondary outcomes were reach, adoption, implementation, and maintenance and maternal and neonatal outcomes using the RE‐AIM framework.

Results

For the “Reach” aspect, 90% of eligible women were included (N = 404; n = 202 intervention and n = 202 standard care). For the “Efficacy” aspect, there were no differences in proportion exceeding GWG recommendations or mean GWG between groups. Secondary analysis excluding women with gestational diabetes showed that a lower proportion of women in the intervention group had GWG above recommendations (β coefficient 0.51, 95% CI: 0.27 to 0.97; p = 0.04), with less GWG (β coefficient −1.93 kg, 95% CI: −3.63 to −0.24; p = 0.03). For the “Adoption” aspect, qualitative analysis of staff/participants demonstrated strong support for service. For the “Implementation” aspect, strong fidelity (implementation according to study plan) and staff/participant acceptability were observed. Finally, for the “Maintenance” aspect, the program has continued for 4 years with plans/funding for scale‐up.

Conclusions

Lifestyle intervention did not alter the overall proportion with excess GWG or total GWG. Secondary analysis, excluding women with gestational diabetes mellitus, showed less GWG. This demonstrates implementation and maintenance of the intervention in routine antenatal care, generating new knowledge within the RE‐AIM framework.
Polymers Facilitating Therapeutic Efficacy and Applications for Traditional Chinese Medicine
Authors: Li Cong , Luo Zhi , Feng Hongqing , Li Zhou
Published: December 2024

The active ingredients from traditional Chinese medicine (TCM) are fundamental to its therapeutic efficacy. However, their difficult detection, low solubility, poor stability, uncertain biocompatibility, and inefficient absorption rate, hinder their clinical application. Polymers have emerged as a viable solution to these issues, providing a platform for the detection, enrichment, and exertion of pharmacological effects. This review delves into the application of polymers in active ingredients from TCM, covering various aspects including molecularly imprinted polymers (MIPs), polymer micelles, polymer hydrogels, conjugated polymers, and polymer nanoparticles (NPs). These advanced systems leverage the designability, adjustable solubility, and biocompatibility of polymers to enhance the therapeutic potential of TCM. The review concludes by discussing the current challenges and prospects of using polymers in TCM. It aims to provide a comprehensive understanding of the field, highlighting the potential of polymers to revolutionize TCM practices and contribute to the modernization of TCM.
Enhancing Ammonia Synthesis Efficiency With Ni‐Loaded La2O3 Catalysts in Plasma‐Catalyzed Reactions
Authors: Li Kelin , Chen She , Li Mengbo , Liu Linlin , Li Yunjie , Yang Guobin , Wang Feng
Published: December 2024

Plasma catalysis is a promising method for distributed, small‐scale ammonia synthesis due to its fast start‐up, shut‐down, and compatibility with new energy sources. However, enhancing the synergistic effect between plasma and catalyst remains challenging. In this study, La2O3 and Ni/La2O3 catalysts were synthesized using the hydrothermal method and tested in a DBD reactor. The results showed that Ni loading improved discharge characteristics, promoting the formation of surface discharge. The reaction performance of Ni/La2O3 under the same conditions is better than La2O3. The disparity in ammonia concentration between the two catalysts increased with higher N2 content. Spectral analysis points to enhanced N2 dissociation on Ni/La2O3. The study proposes a possible reaction mechanism and presents a more efficient Ni‐based La2O3 catalyst.
Streptococcus pneumoniaeGAPN is a key metabolic player necessary for host infection
Authors: Lee Eunjeong , Saviola Anthony , Bevers Shaun , Redzic Jasmina S. , Maroney Sean P. , Shaw Steven , Tamkin Emily , Fulte Sam , Nemkov Travis , Meyer Nancy , D'Alessandro Angelo , Hansen Kirk C. , Clark Sarah E. , Eisenmesser Elan
Published: December 2024

Streptococcus pneumoniae (S. pneumoniae) employs various metabolic pathways to generate nicotinamide adenine dinucleotide phosphate (NADPH), which is essential for redox balance, fatty acid synthesis, and energy production. GAPN, a non‐phosphorylating glyceraldehyde‐3‐phosphate dehydrogenase, plays a role in this process by directly reducing NADP+ to NADPH, effectively contributing to glucose metabolism. However, its relative importance for S. pneumoniae metabolism and infection has remained unknown. Here, we performed a comprehensive characterization of S. pneumoniae GAPN through kinetic assays, isothermal titration calorimetry (ITC), cryo‐EM, mass spectrometry, and infection assays. Despite its structural similarities to its homologues in other species, S. pneumoniae GAPN exhibits negative cooperativity with respect to its substrate, glyceraldehyde‐3‐phosphate (G3P), suggesting a unique regulatory mechanism. Our results demonstrate that GAPN knockout leads to significant metabolic reprogramming, including increased glycogen storage that leads to enhanced fatty acid metabolism. This collectively reduces the ability of S. pneumoniae to manage oxidative stress and sustain infection. Our findings highlight GAPN as a critical enzyme for S. pneumoniae metabolic balance and suggest that its inhibition could serve as a potential strategy for therapeutic intervention in pneumococcal diseases.
Inheritance of chlorantraniliprole resistance and fitness costs in a field population of Cnaphalocrocis medinalis (Lepidoptera: Pyralidae) in China
Authors: Zhang Yan‐Chao , Ling Yan , Dong Bei‐Bei , Li Hong‐Shuang , He Yu‐Kun , Huang Qian , Long Li‐Ping , Wu Shun‐Fan , Gao Cong‐Fen
Published: December 2024

BACKGROUND

Cnaphalocrocis medinalis is one of the major rice insect pests in Asia. Chlorantraniliprole is one of the most important insecticides for the control of C. medinalis. In this study, a field‐resistant population and a susceptible strain of C. medinalis were used to evaluate the inheritance of chlorantraniliprole resistance and fitness costs in the field.

RESULTS

The field‐resistant population (Cm‐RR) showed 128.4‐fold resistance to chlorantraniliprole compared with the susceptible strain (Cm‐SS). The dose–response of reciprocal cross progeny (F1 and F1′) showed no significant difference, which indicated the inheritance of resistance to chlorantraniliprole in C. medinalis was autosomal. The degrees of dominance (D) of resistance for F1 and F1′ were −0.19 and −0.05, respectively, indicating that the chlorantraniliprole resistance of C. medinalis was incompletely recessive inheritance. At the same time, significant differences between observed and expected mortalities of self‐cross (F2 and F2′) and backcross (BC and BC′) progenies suggested chlorantraniliprole resistance is controlled by multiple genes. Furthermore, the Cm‐RR population had a relative fitness of 0.32 with a substantially decreased pupation rate, emergence rate, fecundity, and substantially increased developmental time of larval and pupa stages.

CONCLUSION

Current research showed that the inheritance of chlorantraniliprole resistance to C. medinalis was autosomal, incompletely recessive and multigene. The field‐resistant population had a relative fitness of 0.32 when compared with the susceptible strain. This study provided valuable information for facilitating the development of chlorantraniliprole resistance management strategies. © 2024 Society of Chemical Industry.
Geometric approximations for global atmospheres on moderately oblate planets
Authors: Dubos Thomas
Published: December 2024

Certain geometric approximations, such as the widely used traditional shallow‐atmosphere, spherical‐geoid (TSA‐SG) and deep‐atmosphere, spherical‐geoid (DA‐SG) approximations, boil down to the specification of a spatial metric tensor. In order to eliminate the leading‐order errors due to the SG and TSA approximations, a sequence of four geometric approximations of decreasing accuracy at high altitudes is obtained. Their Lagrangians possess a simple, closed‐form analytical expression. The approximations capture to leading order the oblateness of the planet, the widening of atmospheric columns with height, the horizontal and vertical variations of gravity, and the non‐traditional part of the Coriolis force. Furthermore, for the last two approximations, the horizontal metric is conformal (proportional) to the spherical metric, which may simplify analytical and numerical formulations of the equations of motion.
Deciphering the Influence of Alkylene Bridged and Chelating Mode on Pd—C and Pd—X (X = Cl, Br, and I) Bonding Interaction Within Bis‐(NHC)‐Palladium Complexes Using Quantum Chemistry Tools
Authors: D'Ambassa Gaël Mouzong , Ongagna Jean Moto , Adjieufack Abel Idrice , Leonie Djendo Mazia Suzane , Mama Désiré Bikele
Published: December 2024

In this paper, we have explored the influence of alkylene‐bridged length and coordination mode on the reactivity of a series of 24 alkylene‐bridged palladium complexes using computational tools (B3PW91/LANL2DZ//6‐31G(d) level) in gas phase and DMSO. These palladium complexes prefer a boat and chair configuration for methylene and ethylene bridge length, respectively. In addition, phenyl and nitro complexes present a higher activation for Pd—C bonds while the most stable Pd⋯C interactions are observed for abnormal mode with methylene bridge. According to the energy decomposition analysis (EDA), hydrogen and phenyl complexes in both chelation modes present a better electrostatic character. Moreover, Pd⋯C interactions are stronger compared to the Pd⋯X ones for ethylene‐bridged abnormal complexes (in gas phase). Finally, the donation/back‐donation ratio (d/b) values reveal the Fischer carbene character of these [bis(NHC)]⋯[PdX2] interactions. Concerning the hybridization around the metal cation for the Pd—C bond, the sp2d type is observed for methylene‐bridged palladium complexes while the sp3 one is observed for ethylene bridge complexes.
Geopolitical risks and cryptocurrency returns
Authors: Yilmazkuday Hakan
Published: December 2024

This study examines how global geopolitical risks, threats, and acts impact the daily returns of 10 major cryptocurrencies (BTC, ETH, USDT, XRP, BNB, USDC, BCH, DOGE, LTC, and ADA). The statistically significant results that are robust to the consideration of alternative model specifications and control variables suggest that there is strong evidence for (i) ETH, XRP, BNB and BCH responding negatively to the shocks of geopolitical risks, (ii) BTC, ETH, BNB, BCH, LTC and ADA responding negatively to the shocks of geopolitical threats, and (iii) all 10 cryptocurrencies not responding to the shocks of geopolitical acts. As these 10 cryptocurrencies do not respond positively to any of the three shocks in a robust and statistically significant way either, it is implied that none of them offer a reliable hedge against geopolitical risks.
A Kick in the Headwaters: Evaluating a Macroinvertebrate Sampling Method for Ecological Condition Monitoring in Small Streams
Authors: Stubbington Rachel , Longstaffe Oliver , Sarremejane Romain , Bates Phillipa , Gething Kieran J. , Jones J. Iwan , Kelly‐Quinn Mary , Laini Alex , Murray‐Bligh John , Rippon Lesley , Rouen Simon
Published: December 2024

Small streams dominate river networks and collectively support high biodiversity, but are rarely included in regulatory biomonitoring programmes. Macroinvertebrate communities are effective biomonitors of ecological condition and are routinely collected using 3‐min ‘kick’ samples. However, this 3‐min duration may not be suitable for small streams, which typically support fewer taxa at lower densities than larger rivers of equivalent condition. We evaluated the kick‐sampling method at 30 sites representing a national small stream monitoring network. At each site, we collected three 5‐min kick samples in 10 0.5‐min component parts. We used the families collected in 15 min to represent ‘total’ site‐scale taxonomic richness, then determined the duration needed to sample ≥ 65% of these taxa (a method and target comparable to those used in larger rivers). We also determined the sampling duration at which an average score per taxon (ASPT) biomonitoring index stabilized. Considering all streams, on average, 2.5‐min durations captured ≥ 65% of taxa, but 3.5 min was required to reach this target in temporary streams, because numerous taxa occurred at low abundance. Only 54% of samples contained ≥ 65% of taxa after 2.5 min, compared to 70% after 3 min. In most streams, the ASPT stabilized after 2 min, whereas 3 min was required to meet this target in temporary streams. Considering the variation around any estimate of capture rates introduced by natural variability, taxonomic resolution and operator error, we suggest 3 min as the most robust sampling duration to enable condition monitoring in individual small streams and comparison with larger rivers.
Diglossic and Orthographic Features of Reading Comprehension in Standard Arabic: The Primacy of the Spoken Language
Authors: Saiegh‐Haddad Elinor , Schiff Rachel
Published: December 2024

This study investigates the role of diglossic and orthographic features in reading comprehension in Arabic. Specifically, it probes the independent contribution of language, metalinguistic, and decoding skills in the spoken language and in Standard Arabic to reading comprehension in the abjad writing system of Arabic. A sample of 112 Palestinian Arabic native‐speaking third graders (mean age = 108.31 months) were tested on receptive vocabulary, phonological awareness, morphological awareness, and word decoding independently in the spoken language and in the standard. Listening comprehension and reading comprehension in the standard were also tested, along with cognitive factors. Regression analysis showed that morphological awareness, receptive vocabulary and decoding accuracy and fluency in the spoken language predicted unique variance in reading comprehension in the standard beyond cognitive ability, with morphological awareness emerging as the strongest predictor. Only decoding accuracy in the standard predicted unique variance in reading comprehension beyond spoken language skills. Listening comprehension entered in the last block contributed a small unique variance. The results underscore the contribution of lexical, metalinguistic, and decoding skills for words within the spoken language to reading comprehension in Standard Arabic. Moreover, they underscore the unique contribution of morphological skills to reading comprehension in the Arabic abjad writing system. The results imply that not all of the reading comprehension difficulties that Arabic‐speaking children encounter are related to linguistic distance. Rather, some difficulties are grounded in difficulties with basic language, metalinguistic, and decoding skills for words within their spoken vernacular. The implications of these findings for literacy education in Arabic diglossia are discussed.
Base‐Promoted Diastereoselective Addition of 2‐Aryloxy‐2‐Fluoroketones to N‐(tert‐Butylsulfinyl)Imines
Authors: Wang Ren‐Jie , Wei Jie , Jin Yi‐Hu , Xu Tiefeng , Zhang Youcan , Li Ya
Published: December 2024

The asymmetric construction of a quaternary fluorine‐containing stereogenic carboncenter is highly valuable for the development of fluoroine‐containing bioactive molecules. Herein, a base‐promoted, diastereoselective Mannich‐type reaction of 2‐aryloxy‐2‐fluoroketones with N‐(tert‐butylsulfinyl)imines has been developed. A number of the addition products featuring a fluorinated quaternary stereocarbon centre and a β‐fluoroamine structural motif have been readily obtained in good yields with moderate to good diastereoselectivities. The absolute configuration of the major diasteromer was determined by X‐ray crystallography analysis, and a closed transition‐state mode was proposed to explain the stereochemical outcome of this reaction. In addition, the addition product was efficiently converted into a α‑fluoro‐β‐amino alcohol through desulfinylation followed by reduction of the carbonyl group.
Innovative Applications of Nanocellulose in 3D Printing: A Review
Authors: Tong Yuqi , Jiang Chuang , Ji Chuye , Liu Wei , Wang Yixiang
Published: December 2024

Cellulose nanofibrils (CNFs) and cellulose nanocrystals (CNCs) are nanoscale materials with unique mechanical properties and geometry that attract considerable interest in recent years for a wide range of applications. This review pays special attention to the recent progress of CNFs and CNCs assisted 3D printing in medicine, food, engineering, and architecture fields. Various types of CNFs and CNCs used for 3D printing are summarized. The addition of nanocellulose improves the printability and quality of printed objects in certain cases, leading to greater accuracy and durability. The created functional structures with specific properties have promising applications in various fields such as medicine and food preservation and viscosity enhancement. Finally, this work highlights the transformative potential of nanocellulose‐assisted 3D printing to revolutionize a range of fields and the need for continued research and development to overcome current technical challenges.
Efficient Light to Heat Conversion in Sb2Se3 Nanorods and the Role of Macro‐channel Imprinted Sb2Se3 Loaded Hybrid Membrane for Superior Desalination Performance
Authors: Sen Nabanita , Debnath Anup , Bhattacharjee Souvik , Das Bikram Kumar , Thakur Manas , Saha Arnab Kumar , Chattopadhyay Kalyan Kumar
Published: December 2024

This report validates Sb2Se3 nanorods (NRs) as a potential contender for solar thermal heat generation. The water droplet experiment shows Sb2Se3's light‐to‐heat conversion efficiency as ≈57.8% for red (671 nm), 58% for green (532 nm) lasers. Following this PVDF(M)/ Sb2Se3 NRs hybrid membranes for solar desalination reached ≈59°C in 15 minutes of illumination. The heat generation is dominated by an electron/hole‐acoustic phonon scattering mechanism. Despite having superior visNIR absorption and heat localization in Sb2Se3 NRs, the hybrid membranes show an evaporation rate of 1.72 kg m−2 h−1 only, even if mass loading is increased. The hydrophobic Sb2Se3 NRs layer restricts water diffusion to hot zones, reducing solar evaporation efficiency. A novel macro channel imprinting strategy in hybrid membranes speeds up water transport to the hot zone. Consequently, optimized macro channel membranes achieve ≈2.37 kg m−2 h−1 mass loss and 148% solar evaporation efficiency under a 1000 W m−2 mercury vapor lamp. Therefore, imprinting macro‐channel can be a possible strategy, addressing the hydrophobic materials in desalination applications which can be expanded in other similar materials. Moreover, its outdoor sunlight application achieves impressive solar evaporation efficiency (≈108%). The steam generated effectively removes heavy metals, meeting World Health Organization (WHO) potable water standards.
A Magnetically Actuated MOF‐Based Nanozyme for Intensified Induction of Ferroptosis and Immunogenic Cell Death Via Autophagy Blockade
Authors: Yao Can , Zhang Rui , Xie Zongliang , Wu Yundi , Wu Xilong
Published: December 2024

Nanozymes mimicking enzymes show great promise in anti‐tumor therapy but are often limited by their low catalytic activity and lack of tumor specificity in hostile tumor microenvironments. This study develops a novel nanozyme, D/P@ZUCO, utilizing metal–organic frameworks (MOFs) with glutathione oxidase, peroxidase, and catalase‐like activities. D/P@ZUCO is synthesized using ZnFe2O4 and NH2‐UiO66 (Cu/Zr) through an in situ growth method, followed by loading with doxorubicin (DOX) and primaquine (PQ), and functionalization with oxidized hyaluronic acid (OHA). It efficiently catalyzes the conversion of hydrogen peroxide (H2O2) into hydroxyl radicals (·OH) and glutathione (GSH) into glutathione disulfide (GSSH), initiating ferroptosis in cancer cells. Additionally, the conversion of excess H2O2 into oxygen (O2) enhances the apoptosis effects of DOX. Importantly, the inhibition of autophagy by D/P@ZUCO exacerbates ferroptosis and immunogenic cell death (ICD), triggering a potent anti‐tumor immune response. The targeted drug delivery of D/P@ZUCO is facilitated by magnetic guidance and interactions between OHA and CD44 receptors. D/P@ZUCO demonstrates effective cancer treatment by triggering multiple cell death pathways through a synergistic combination of enzymatic actions, serving as a paradigm for systemic activation of multiple enzymes in triple‐negative breast cancer therapy.
Mitigating Crosstalk by Slurry Additive Toward 5 V Cobalt‐Free LiNi0.5Mn1.5O4 Cathode
Authors: Peng Cancan , Li Min , Yu Ying , Xue Wenwen , Liang Suzhe , Song Jinu , Li Jiapei , Cao Longhao , Xia Yonggao , Yang Chao , Guo Kunkun , Cheng Ya‐Jun
Published: December 2024

LiNi0.5Mn1.5O4 (LNMO), with its spinel symmetry, emerges as a promising cathode material for high‐voltage lithium‐ion batteries (LIBs). Nonetheless, the vulnerability of LNMO to interfacial degradation, particularly electrolyte breakdown during high‐voltage operation, compromises its long‐term cycling performance. To overcome this longstanding challenge, a slurry additive—polyester‐urethane‐acrylate (PEUA)—to form a multi‐functional ultra‐thin electrode coating, enhancing the lifespan and energy density of LIBs is introduced. Comprehensive characterizations and theoretical analyses reveal that the PEUA slurry additive effectively maintains electrode integrity, facilitates electrons and lithium ions transport, and inhibits hazardous side reactions, thus preventing the by‐products from triggering cathode‐electrolyte‐anode interface crosstalk. Consequently, the 5 V LNMO || Li cell with PEUA slurry additive maintains a high‐capacity retention of 97.8%, with improved cycling stability at high‐temperature and full‐cell configurations. This crosstalk‐mitigation strategy offers a promising avenue for extending the lifespan and electrochemical performance of high‐voltage cobalt‐free cathodes, advancing the practical use of high‐energy density LIB technology.
Protein Electronic Energy Transport Levels Derived from High‐Sensitivity Near‐UV and Constant Final State Yield Photoemission Spectroscopy
Authors: Fereiro Jerry A , Tomita Masaki , Bendikov Tatyana , Bera Sudipta , Pecht Israel , Sheves Mordechai , Cahen David , Ishii Hisao
Published: December 2024

Proteins are attractive as functional components in molecular junctions. However, controlling the electronic charge transport via proteins, held between two electrodes, requires information on their frontier orbital energy level alignment relative to the electrodes’ Fermi level (EF), which normally requires studies of UV Photoemission Spectroscopy (UPS) with HeI excitation. Such excitation is problematic for proteins, which can denature under standard measuring conditions. Here high‐sensitivity soft UV photoemission spectroscopy (HS‐UPS) combined with Constant Final State Yield Spectroscopy (CFS‐YS) is used to get this information for electrode/protein contacts. Monolayers of the redox protein Azurin, (Az) and its Apo‐form on Au substrates, have HOMO onset energies, obtained from CFS‐YS, differ by ≈0.2 eV, showing the crucial role of the Cu redox centre in the electron transport process. It is found that combined HS‐UPS/CFS‐YS measurements agree with the Photoelectron Yield Spectroscopy (PYS), showing potential of the HS‐UPS + CFS‐YS as a powerful tool to characterize and map the energetics of a protein‐electrode interfaces, which will aid optimizing design of devices with targeted electronic properties, as well as for novel applications.
Gold Flake‐Enabled Miniature Capacitive Picobalances
Authors: Zhu Jiajie , Tong Yuanbiao , Wang Zhenxin , Li Zhiyong , Zhang Lei , Guo Xin , Tong Limin , Wang Pan
Published: December 2024

Measurement of masses of microscale objects or weak force with ultrahigh sensitivity (down to nanogram/piconewton level) and compact configuration is highly desired for fundamental research and applications in various disciplines. Here, by using freestanding gold flakes with high reflectivity (≈98% at 980 nm) as the sample tray and silica microfibers with extremely low spring constant (≈0.05 mN m−1) as the cantilever beams, miniature capacitive balances are reported with piconewton‐level detection limit (picobalances) and reliable radiation force‐based calibration. In the design, the gold flake is suspended by two silica microfibers, which also functions as an electrode to form a capacitor with an underneath gold electrode. Benefitting from the high reflectivity of the gold flake, the performance of picobalances can be precisely calibrated by exerting piconewton‐level radiation pressure on the gold flake (working as a mirror) with a laser, showing a detection limit as low as 6.9 pN. Finally, using a fiber taper‐assisted micromanipulation technique, masses of various types of pollens (with weights ranging from 4.6 to 96.3 ng) are readily measured by a picobalance at single‐particle level. The miniature picobalances should find applications in precise measurement of masses of micro or nanoscale objects and various types of weak forces.
Confined compressive stress–strain model for rectangular geopolymer reinforced concrete members
Authors: Kocaer Oznur , Aldemir Alper
Published: December 2024

In response to the urgent global challenge of mitigating climate change, sustainable materials have become a focal point across industries, including construction. The construction sector, recognizing its significant contribution to carbon dioxide emissions, has embarked on a relentless pursuit of eco‐friendly practices. Efforts to explore alternatives to cement, notorious for its substantial carbon footprint, have attracted considerable attention. Within this context, the present study delves into an in‐depth analysis of the stress–strain properties exhibited by geopolymer concrete (GC) column members. The primary objective is to develop a comprehensive material model of geopolymer concrete to estimate the flexural capacities of column members. To this end, inspired by the confinement model by Kent and Park, a stress–strain model incorporating the effect of confinement is proposed to accurately estimate the moment capacity of GC columns. The performance of the proposed formulation is checked using 41 different test results obtained from previous research on GC columns. Evaluations on the moment capacity estimations of the proposed model show that the results are promising in reflecting the behavior of geopolymer columns. In addition, moment–curvature curves from six recent experiments are also compared with the moment–curvature curve estimations using the proposed stress–strain model. Results show very close estimations, proving the ability of the model to be a good candidate for the performance‐based design calculations. Besides, the performance of the existing formulations from four prominent international codes (ACI318, BS8110‐97, TS500, and AASHTO) are compared with the proposed model. Notably, the flexural capacity calculated using the code formulations exhibited significant deviations from the experimental results. In contrast, the proposed model demonstrates a strong correlation with the experimental data, substantiating its effectiveness in accurately predicting the flexural capacities of GC columns.
Decoding the Catalytic Potential of Dinuclear 1st‐Row Transition Metal Complexes for Proton Reduction and Water Oxidation
Authors: Raj Manaswini , Padhi Sumanta Kumar
Published: December 2024

The growing interest in renewable energy sources has led to a significant focus on artificial photosynthesis as a means of converting solar energy into lucrative and energy‐dense carbonaceous fuels. First‐row transition metals have thus been brought to light in the search for efficient and high‐performance homogenous molecule catalysts that can accelerate energy transformation and reduce overpotentials during the catalytic process. Their dinuclear complexes have opportunities to enhance the efficiency and stability of these molecular catalysts, primarily for the hydrogen evolution reaction (HER) and water oxidation reaction (WOR). Recently, our group improved the catalytic activity, efficiencies, and stability of dinuclear molecular catalysts, particularly toward HER. Although one dinuclear complex has been tested for WOR, it demonstrated activity as water oxidation precatalysts. First‐row transition metals are a great option for sustainable catalysis because they are readily available, reasonably priced, and have multifaceted coordination chemistry. Examples of these metals are cobalt, copper, and manganese. The structure‐catalytic performance relationships of this first‐row transition metal‐based dinuclear catalysts are noteworthily interpreted in this account, providing avenues for optimizing their performance and advancing the development of sustainable and effective energy conversion technologies.
Self-Dual Maxwell Fields from Clifford Analysis
Authors: Robson C. J.
Published: December 2024

The study of complex functions is based around the study of holomorphic functions, satisfying the Cauchy-Riemann equations. The relatively recent field of Clifford Analysis lets us extend many results from Complex Analysis to higher dimensions. In this paper, I decompose the Cauchy-Riemann equations for a general Clifford algebra into grades using the Geometric Algebra formalism, and show that for the Spacetime Algebra Cl(3, 1) these equations are the equations for a self-dual source free Maxwell field, and for a massless uncharged Spinor. This shows a deep link between fundamental physics and the Clifford geometry of Spacetime.
Existence of similarity profiles for diffusion equations and systems
Authors: Mielke Alexander , Schindler Stefanie
Published: December 2024

We study the existence of similarity profiles for diffusion equations and reaction diffusion systems on the real line, where the different nontrivial limits are imposed for

$$ x \rightarrow -\infty $$

x
→
-
∞

and

$$x \rightarrow +\infty $$

x
→
+
∞

. These similarity profiles solve a coupled system of nonlinear ODEs that can be treated by monotone operator theory.
Finite element approximation of time-dependent mean field games with nondifferentiable Hamiltonians
Authors: Osborne Yohance A. P. , Smears Iain
Published: December 2024

The standard formulation of the PDE system of Mean Field Games (MFG) requires the differentiability of the Hamiltonian. However in many cases, the structure of the underlying optimal problem leads to a convex but nondifferentiable Hamiltonian. For time-dependent MFG systems, we introduce a generalization of the problem as a Partial Differential Inclusion (PDI) by interpreting the derivative of the Hamiltonian in terms of the subdifferential set. In particular, we prove the existence and uniqueness of weak solutions to the resulting MFG PDI system under standard assumptions in the literature. We propose a monotone stabilized finite element discretization of the problem, using conforming affine elements in space and an implicit Euler discretization in time with mass-lumping. We prove the strong convergence in

$$L^2(H^1)$$

L
2

(

H
1

)

of the value function approximations, and strong convergence in

$$L^p(L^2)$$

L
p

(

L
2

)

of the density function approximations, together with strong

$$L^2$$

L
2

-convergence of the value function approximations at the initial time.
Oral microbiota in preschoolers with rampant caries: a matched case–control study
Authors: Wu Yao , Li Guiding , Lyu Chang-hai , Zhou Ni , Wong Hai Ming
Published: December 2024

Rampant caries is identified by rapid onset, severe decay affecting multiple surfaces, and early pulp infection. This case–control study was conducted to investigate the disparities in oral microbiota between children affected by rampant caries and their caries-free counterparts. A total of 88 preschool children, with matched distribution of sex and age in both the case and control groups, participated in this study. Children’s oral health–related behaviors were reported by parents, salivary pH levels were assessed using a portable pen-type pH meter, and supragingival dental plaque was analyzed by 16S rRNA gene sequencing. Children with rampant caries exhibited lower salivary pH levels, poorer toothbrushing habits, and more frequent consumption of sugary snacks. Veillonella, enriched in caries-free children, showed a positive correlation with salivary pH levels and a negative correlation with candy consumption. Conversely, Fusobacterium and Neisseria, more abundant in children with rampant caries, positively correlated with the frequency of candy consumption. Furthermore, Streptococcus mutans, Porphyromonas gingivalis, and Bacteroides acidifaciens were identified as potential oral microbiome markers for differentiating preschoolers with rampant caries from their caries-free peers. B. acidifaciens, typically found in the gut, has been rarely reported in the field of oral health. More well-designed cohort studies are recommended to elucidate the mechanisms through which gut microbiota influences rampant caries in pediatric patients and offer insights into effective strategies for caries management in young children.

Key points

• Lower salivary pH levels in children with rampant caries.

• Biomarkers for predicting rampant caries.

• Impact of oral health–related behaviors on oral microbiota.
Unforeseen current and future benefits of uncommon yeast: the Metschnikowia genus
Authors: Haniffadli Ariranur , Ban Yeongjun , Rahmat Endang , Kang Chang Ho , Kang Youngmin
Published: December 2024

Metschnikowia, the single-cell yeast form, is a genus of 85 species in the Saccharomycetales order that developed in both aquatic and terrestrial ecosystems after being found in 1899. This yeast is commonly used to control microbial populations in many biological and artificial conditions, such as fermentation. However, current study of Metschnikowia is limited to biological control features rather than researching on lucrative sectors such as beverage production, bioconversion manufacturing, cosmetics, and the pharmaceutical industry. This review summarizes numerous possible applications of Metschnikowia in human life, including potential secondary metabolites in industrial fields such as cosmetics and pharmaceuticals. Furthermore, Metschnikowia-yeast interaction is mentioned as a potential area for further exploration in terms of co-cultured microbes as biocontrol. Since Metschnikowia yeast arose in a variety of ecosystems, more discussion will be held regarding the interactions between Metschnikowia and their surroundings, particularly in fruits. Finally, the current regulatory challenges of Metschnikowia-based products are examined, and future research opportunities on Metschnikowia utilization are presented.

Key points

• Utilization of Metschnikowia genus in various human aspects.

• Promising secondary metabolites produced by Metschnikowia.

• Challenge and opportunity on developing Metschnikowia-based products.

Graphical Abstract
Assessment of calf muscle constitution in chronic Achilles tendon disease using Dixon-based MRI
Authors: Goller Sophia S. , Kajdi Georg W. , Wirth Stephan , Snedeker Jess G. , Sutter Reto
Published: December 2024

Objectives

To assess calf muscle constitution in chronic Achilles tendon disease (ATD) using two-point Dixon-based MRI (2pt-MRIDIXON).

Materials and methods

This retrospective study analyzed 91 patients (36 females; 57.0 ± 14.4 years) with midportion or insertional chronic ATD who underwent clinical MRI of the Achilles tendon (AT), including 2pt-MRIDIXON for quantitative assessment of calf muscle fat content (MFC). Additionally, two radiologists qualitatively assessed MFC, AT quality, and co-pathologies. 2pt-MRIDIXON-derived fat fractions (FF) were related to patients’ demographics and qualitative imaging findings.

Results

The overall mean FF derived from 2pt-MRIDIXON of the triceps surae muscle was 11.2 ± 9.3%. Comparing midportion and insertional ATD, there was no significant difference regarding fatty muscle infiltration assessed with 2pt-MRIDIXON (P ≥ .47) or qualitative grading (P ≥ .059). More severe AT thickening (11 vs.9 mm, P < .001) and complete tears (29 vs. 9%, P = .025) were significantly more common in midportion ATD, while partial tears were significantly more frequent in insertional ATD (55 vs. 31%, P = .027). Soleus muscle edema was more prevalent in midportion than insertional ATD (40 vs. 9%, P = .002). In contrast, insertional ATD more commonly featured bone marrow edema (61 vs. 2%), Haglund’s deformity (67 vs. 0%), and retrocalcaneal bursitis (82 vs. 43%) (P ≤ .002). Significant correlations (P ≤ .001) were demonstrated between FF, AT diameter, age (both in midportion and insertional ATD), and body mass index (in midportion ATD only) (ρ range = 0.53–0.61).

Conclusion

In chronic ATD, calf MFC was statistically equivalent (approximately 11%), irrespective of the localization of tendon damage. More severe tendon thickening and complete tears were more common in midportion ATD, and, vice versa, partial AT tears were significantly more frequent in insertional ATD.