bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Microwave Integrated Circuits
Authors: Das Nirod K. , Bolle Donald M.
Published: November 2024

In this article a general overview and basic principles of operation of a class of highly integrated analog devices and circuits, used for applications in the microwave and millimeter‐wave frequency range, are presented. Although there are subgroups of sister technologies that evolved over the years, having different acronyms such as MIC (microwave integrated circuits in hybrid form), MMIC (monolithic microwave integrated circuits), and MCMs (multichip modules), their basic principles of operation are similar, with their objectives and scopes rapidly overlapping. The discussions in this article may be directed to a broad class of such integrated circuits, referred to in general as microwave and millimeter‐wave integrated circuits, with “MMIC” as a generic acronym.
Microwave Photonics: Technological Evolution and Its Applications
Authors: Daryoush Afshin S.
Published: November 2024

Since the late 1980s, novel microwave photonics techniques have been developed that lead to a performance superior to that obtained with the purely electronic systems. This discipline originated from the concept of light interaction with semiconductor devices and circuits, and has now branched to a number of applications dealing primarily with antenna technology and remote and signal processing. This article reviews the previously established optically controlled devices and circuits, followed by discussions of both directly and externally modulated fiberoptic links. Fiberoptic link performance is discussed in terms of system‐level figures of merit. A multifunction optoelectronic circuit is also discussed. Design innovations are introduced in low‐cost source packaging and system architectures of optically fed large phased‐array antennas. One important advantage of photonics in microwave systems is the optical signal processing based on low‐loss optical fibers. Examples of memory loops, narrowband notch filters, and transversal filters are introduced. All‐optical analog‐to‐digital conversion and diffuse photon near‐IR imaging are two new application areas that are currently under development. The GSPS optical ADC concepts are presented using mode‐locked lasers for optical sampling. Quantization could be achieved in both electrical and optical domains. Finally, an approach based on the diffused photon near‐infrared imaging technique is discussed, leading to medical monitoring and biomedical imaging systems. As the modulation frequency expands to microwave frequencies, a higher spatial resolution is observed.
Microwave Power Transmission
Authors: Strassner Berndie H. , Chang Kai
Published: November 2024

Microwave power transmission (MPT ) is the wireless transfer of large amounts of power at microwave frequencies from one location to another. MPT is often referred to in the literature as wireless power transmission (WPT ) at microwave frequencies. MPT research has been driven primarily by the desire to remotely power unmanned aerial vehicles (UAV s) and by the concept of space solar power (SSP ) first conceived by Dr. Peter Glaser of the Arthur D. Little Company in 1968. SSP is an MPT system with the addition of solar cells and magnetrons for microwave power generation. The SSP idea calls for a constellation of solar power satellites (SPS s) to capture the energy from the sun using arrays of solar cells. The solar cell panels output large DC voltages to awaiting cavity magnetrons positioned on various subarrays within each SPS phased‐array aperture. These magnetrons convert the high‐voltage DC outputs of the solar panel arrays to microwave power. The microwave energy is then beamed to Earth to farms of rectifying antenna (rectenna) arrays that convert the incoming microwave energy back to DC power. Since its inception, SSP has gained considerable attention since it has the potential of providing clean, renewable, and continuous power for generations to come. MPT has been shown experimentally as a way for people on Earth to remotely power unmanned high‐altitude platforms such as UAV s. Additional uses for MPT include powering space probes from future space stations into deep space and powering robots to enter dangerous environments such as nuclear‐contaminated areas.
Millimeter‐Wave Integrated Circuits
Authors: Wang Huei , Lin Kun-You , Liu Ren-Chieh , Chang Hong-Yeh
Published: November 2024

Millimeter‐wave (MMW) components are becoming more available and affordable because of advances in design, processing, testing, and packaging technology. MMW circuits have become smaller, highly integrated, and low‐cost, and are being applied in instrumentation, electronic warfare, satellite communications and other applications. As a result, many MMW systems are being developed and deployed that provide new and unique capabilities such as more information transfer (wider bandwidth), enhanced precision (higher resolution), and all‐weather operation (through fog, dust, and smoke), for both military and commercial applications. Monolithic MMW integrated circuits (MMICs) are crucial to meet the requirements for the MMW systems and play an important role in the MMW components. This article describes the current status of MMW monolithic integrated circuits, including the MMIC technologies, representative designs, and performance for various integrated circuits.
Surface Acoustic Wave Devices
Authors: Morgan D. P.
Published: November 2024

A surface‐acoustic‐wave (SAW) device employs an acoustic wave guided along the surface of a piezoelectric crystal, in which the stresses and strains of the wave are coupled to electric fields. The wave has a low velocity, typically 3500 m/s, and propagates with low attenuation. These features enable compact low‐loss devices to be developed for electronics applications at frequencies up to several gigahertz. Arrays of metal electrodes are used to generate, detect, or reflect the waves. This technology has enormous versatility because standard lithographic techniques can be used to fabricate almost arbitrary geometries.

This article summarizes the nature of surface waves and some relevant propagation effects, including diffraction. The interdigital transducer, used in all these devices for wave generation, is described. A survey of suitable materials is given, including quartz, lithium niobate, and lithium tantalate. Transversal bandpass filters are weighted using apodisation or withdrawal weighting. They are widely used in TV receivers, as well as in professional equipment which calls for very high‐performance devices. For radar, SAW pulse compression filters perform a correlation operation, increasing the range capability. Other devices perform correlation for spread‐spectrum communication waveforms; an example is the SAW nonlinear convolver, which is capable of instantaneous programmability. For mobile telephony there has been a strong demand for miniature low‐loss bandpass filters, and a wide variety of novel SAW devices have been developed. For example, impedance element filters give 1 dB loss at 900 MHz, with 30 MHz bandwidth and a package size of 2×2 mm2. For IF CDMA filters, a modified form of the transversal filter, called the R‐SPUDT (resonant single‐phase unidirectional transducer), enables both low loss and small size to be obtained. For GSM IF circuits, transverse‐coupled resonator filters have been developed to give a very narrow bandwidth of 200 kHz.

The article concludes with a superficial survey of the theory of these devices.
Frequency‐Division Multiplexers
Authors: Snyder Richard V.
Published: November 2024

Frequency‐division multiplexers are networks used either to split an input spectrum into possibly, but not necessarily, contiguous subportions, or alternatively to combine discrete spectral inputs into a common output. Designers and theoreticians have traditionally treated the design methodology as “black art,” and it has been difficult to formally learn “how to multiplex.” This article presents some of the many multiplexing techniques that have been developed since the early 1950s, and provides a good starting point for would‐be multiplexer designers.
Radar Imaging
Authors: Chen Victor C.
Published: November 2024

Radar imaging is an imaging method obtained by processing radar signals reflected from an object and generating an image of that object. The purpose of this article is to introduce basic concepts of radar imaging, including radar imaging geometry, synthetic aperture, stripmap mode, spotlight mode, and inverse mode. This article summarizes algorithms for radar imaging, including the range–Doppler algorithm, range migration algorithm, chirp‐scale algorithm, polar formatting algorithm, phase gradient algorithm, prominent point processing algorithm, and time–frequency‐based image formation algorithm. Issues in radar imaging of moving targets are also introduced.
Radar Tracking
Authors: Bruder Joseph A.
Published: November 2024

Radar tracking is the ability to determine the position and velocity vector of a target at any particular instant in time, to predict its position in the future, and to distinguish the desired target from other targets and clutter.

Target tracking is necessary for a number of reasons. In order to direct a weapon such as a missile or a projectile to a target, the range, future range, and angles from the radar to the target must be determined by the radar. By knowing the position of the target relative to that of the missile, the guidance computer can direct the missile to the target.
Radio Noise
Authors: Dalke Roger
Published: November 2024

In this article, important sources of receiver noise are described and the concept of receiver noise factor is developed. The noise factor concept is then extended to cover the entire radio receiving system, including the receiving antenna and environmental noise. This is followed by a description of important environmental noise sources.
Mixed‐Signal CMOS RF Integrated Circuits
Authors: Steyaert Michiel , Reynaert Patrick
Published: November 2024

The world of wireless communication and its applications have begun to grow rapidly. The driving force behind this lies in the introduction of digital coding and digital signal processing in wireless communications. This digital revolution is driven by the development of high‐performance, low‐costCMOStechnologies that allow for the integration of an enormous amount of digital functions on a single die. AsCMOSis mainly a digital technology, placing all digital functions on a single die is merely a matter of handing the system complexity. To achieve a truly single‐chip solution, the analog part also has to be integrated inCMOS.

The telecommunication market is generally considered to be a business where a single‐chip solution in a cheap (CMOS) technology results in a huge cost benefit; the main reason is the high volume of user equipment. Furthermore, in these systems, small size, low board area, low power consumption, and high talktime are crucial, and therefore it is of utmost importance to achieve a high level of integration. This trend toward single‐chip, fully integrated systems can clearly be seen in the development of RF systems such asGSM,EDGE, Bluetooth, and wirelessLAN. In all these sytems, the analog part mainly consists of anRFfront end. Deep submicrometer technologies allow for the operation frequency ofCMOScircuits above 1 GHz, which opens the way to fully integratedRFsystems. Several research groups have developed high‐performance downconverters, low‐phase‐noise voltage‐controlled oscillators, and dual‐modulus prescalers in standardCMOStechnologies. The research has already demonstrated fully integrated receivers and synthesizers with no external components, nor tuning or trimming. Further research on low‐noise amplifiers, power amplifiers, and synthesizers has resulted in fully integratedCMOSRFtransceivers for DCS1800, Bluetooth, and wirelessLAN.

In this article, we focus on the evolution from the well‐known heterodyne receiver topology to the zero‐ and low‐IF topology used in modern receivers. We also discuss the interaction between the analog part and the digital part regarding substrate noise and decoupling.
Ferroelectric Materials
Authors: Pandey R. K.
Published: November 2024

The interplay between the forces of electric field, mechanical stress, and temperature in a material can cause a host of effects and properties to evolve. Ferroelectricity is one of these fascinating phenomena, acquired by some dielectric materials, originating from the interactions between the three natural forces. For ferroelectricity to exist, the fundamental condition of noncentrosymmetry of a crystal unit cell must be satisfied. For this and some other reasons, ferroelectricity without exception coexists in materials that are simultaneously piezoelectrics and pyroelectrics. Thus all ferroelectrics are good examples of multifunctional materials. Their multifunctional nature makes them extremely attractive for a host of applications ranging from classical to ultramodern. This article attempts to explain the complex but very interesting properties of ferroelectric materials and their counterparts such as piezoelectrics and pyroelectrics. Phenomena such aspyrooptic effectandmultiferroicmaterials, which are rarely covered in a discussion of ferroelectricity, are also briefly discussed. Processing of ferroelectric materials and their applications have also been included in the discussion with the hope that they will prepare interested readers for more advanced studies of this vast subject.
Its Radio Service Standards and Wireless Access in Vehicular Environments (ITS‐WAVE) at 5.9 GHZ
Authors: Gerges Ramez L.
Published: November 2024

Communications and information technologies are at the core of Intelligent Transportation Systems (ITS). This article describes ongoing activities to create a new family of standards that supports the emerging intelligent transportation systems (ITS) and telematics wireless markets. The Wireless Access in Vehicular Environments (WAVE) is a radiocommunication system intended to provide seamless, interoperable services to surface transportation systems.
A Proton Selective Carbon Nitride Layer for High Durability Fuel Cells
Authors: Smith Keenan , Foglia Fabrizia , Clancy Adam J. , Pope Michael A. , Brett Dan J.L. , Miller Thomas S.
Published: November 2024

To achieve a balance between performance and durability in electrochemical energy conversion systems, such as fuel cells (FC) and water electrolyzers (WE), proton exchange membranes (PEMs) must be optimized for minimal thickness and resistance while maximizing gas rejection and durability. 2D materials, with Angstrom‐scale pores, hold the potential to revolutionize these devices by enabling highly selective proton transport and mitigating degradation pathways. However, to date no material has been implemented that can prevent gas crossover and extend the device lifetime without compromising initial performance. In this study, it is demonstrated that polytriazine imide (PTI), a 2D graphitic carbon nitride with optimally sized and functionalized lattice pores, facilitates unimpeded proton transport. By engineering a centimeter‐scale monolayer film composed of tessellated PTI nanosheets and placing it at the cathode‐PEM interface, significant gains in performance, efficiency, and durability ‐are achieved. These results in PEMFCs show halved hydrogen crossover and over a threefold increase in lifetime. This approach promises to accelerate the adoption of economically viable FCs and WEs with enhanced output and extended service lifetimes, essential for achieving a decarbonized society.
Enabling Bio‐Cathode with Graphene Coating via Networking Soy‐Protein and Polydopamine for Li–S Batteries
Authors: Guo Ying , Ying Chunhua , Ren Lulu , Zhong Justin , Liu Jin , Zhong Wei‐Hong
Published: November 2024

The abundance and environmental friendliness in nature of sulfur (S) make Li–S batteries more attractive in addition to the high theoretical capacity (1675 mAh g−1) and energy density (2600 Wh kg−1) of the batteries. In this study, a bio‐based S cathode with graphene (Gr) coating, capable of effectively suppressing the shuttle effect of polysulfides, is enabled via networking soy protein (SP) and polydopamine (PDA) to form a functional bio‐binder (SP‐PDA). Dopamine self‐polymerization in SP not only generates the interpenetrated network for the bio‐binder but also makes the denatured structure of SP with rich functional groups effective for trapping polysulfides. Meanwhile, the Gr coating with low impedance, and high electronic and ionic conductivity on the cathode surface further significantly reduces polysulfide dissolution. Consequently, the Li–S batteries with the bio‐cathode (SP‐PDA@Gr) demonstrate excellent rate performance and long cycling capacity. In specific, under the current density of 0.5 A g−1 at 70% (500 mAh g−1) capacity retention, the cycle life of the Li–S cell with SP‐PDA@Gr cathode is 600 cycles, i.e.,100 times longer than that of the cell with PVDF binder. This study provides a sustainable strategy for enhancing the performance of Li–S batteries through networking natural proteins to form functional bio‐binders.
A Critical Update on the Design of Dense Ion‐Conducting Membranes for Redox Flow Batteries
Authors: Niccolai Francesca , Guazzelli Elisa , El Koura Zakaria , Pucher Ilara , Martinelli Elisa
Published: November 2024

Recent progress in the design and preparation of dense ion‐conducting membranes, to improve redox flow batteries (RFBs) performance are critically examined. The ideal membrane has to balance a high ionic conductivity, a low crossover of ion/redox‐active species, and high coulombic and voltage efficiencies. Several ion exchange membranes are analyzed, with a focus on proton exchange membranes (PEMs), that are the most mature membrane technology in RFBs, led by the gold standard Nafion. Key developments in the design of membranes include the synthesis of tailored (co)polymers, the post‐functionalization of commercially available ones, membrane formation techniques like electrospinning, polymer blending, the additions of organic and inorganic fillers, and surface modification. Dense, asymmetric and composite membranes are reported and discussed. The effects on the membrane properties of macromolecular parameters (polymer backbone, type and length of the side chains, and the acidity of the ion‐exchanging group) are highlighted. Correlations between chemical structure, properties and performance are discussed, targeting the trade‐off between conductivity, selectivity and overall performance of the RFB cell. Although significant steps forward in the development of ion‐conducting membranes were made, improvements in electrochemical properties and long‐term stability, while reducing costs, are still challenging and necessary to a large‐scale application of RFBs.
Nationwide medical database study for postoperative nutritional management in patients undergoing gastroenterological cancer surgery
Authors: Kawaguchi Yoshikuni , Murotani Kenta , Hayashi Nahoki , Kamoshita Satoru
Published: November 2024

Aim

The study aimed to clarify how nutrition was managed in patients based on surgical site during the first 7 d after gastroenterological cancer surgery.

Methods

A Japanese medical claims database was used to identify patients who had gastroenterological cancer surgery from 2011 to 2022. Patients were divided into groups based on the surgical sites, and postoperative feeding routes and timing of initiation of oral intake for groups were assessed. For the subset of patients fasting postoperatively for ≥7 d, the proportion of patients prescribed target doses of energy (20 kcal/kg) and amino acids (0.8 g/kg) on postoperative d 7 were assessed.

Results

Surgical sites of 360 296 study patients were: esophagus, 14 784; stomach, 103 339; colon/rectum, 194 049; liver, 19 277; gallbladder/bile duct, 8279; pancreas, 20 568. The median postoperative day of oral intake initiation was: esophagus, seven; stomach and pancreas, four; colon/rectum and gallbladder/bile duct, three; liver, two. The proportions of fasting patients prescribed target doses of energy and amino acids on postoperative d 7 were: esophagus, 42.6% and 34.4%; stomach, 21.8% and 28.0%; colon/rectum, 20.9% and 29.1%; liver, 21.2% and 22.5%; gallbladder/bile duct, 31.0% and 33.4%; pancreas, 28.2% and 37.8%, respectively.

Conclusion

Oral intake after gastroenterological cancer surgery was started earliest in patients undergoing liver surgery and latest in patients undergoing esophageal surgery. Target parenteral energy and amino acid doses were prescribed to less than half of fasting patients. Education is needed to promote early initiation of oral intake and the use of guidelines‐based parenteral nutrition dosing in patients after gastroenterological cancer surgery.
Design Strategies of Capacitor‐Based Synaptic Cell for High‐Efficiency Analog Neural Network Training
Authors: Lee Byoungwoo , Ji Wonjae , Kim Hyejin , Han Seungmin , Park Geonwoong , Hur Pyeongkang , Jeon Gilsu , Lee Hyung‐Min , Chung Yoonyoung , Son Junwoo , Noh Yong‐Young , Kim Seyoung
Published: November 2024

Analog in‐memory computing, leveraging resistive switching cross‐point devices known as resistive processing units (RPUs), offers substantial improvements in the performance and energy efficiency of deep neural network (DNN) training. Among the promising candidates for RPU devices, the capacitor‐based synaptic circuit stands out due to its near‐ideal switching characteristics. However, despite its potential, challenges such as large cell areas and retention issues remain to be addressed. In this work, we study the three‐transistors‐one‐capacitor synaptic cell design, aiming to enhance computing performance and scalability. Through comprehensive device‐level modeling and system‐level simulation, assessment is done on how the transistor characteristics influence DNN training accuracy and reveal critical design strategies. A novel cell design methodology that optimizes computing performance while minimizing cell area is proposed, thereby enhancing scalability. Additionally, development guidelines for cell components are provided, identifying oxide‐based semiconductors as a promising channel material for transistors. This research contributes valuable insights for the development of future analog DNN training accelerators using capacitor‐based synaptic cell, with a focus on addressing the current limitations and maximizing efficiency.
Electron Delocalized Ni Active Sites in Spinel Catalysts Enable Efficient Urea Oxidation
Authors: Zhang Hui‐Jian , Chen Zi‐Qiang , Ye Xiao‐Tong , Xiao Kang , Liu Zhao‐Qing
Published: November 2024

The urea oxidation reaction (UOR) has attracted much attention as an efficient alternative reaction to oxygen evolution reaction (OER) due to its low required overpotential. Despite significant progress in efficient nickel‐based catalysts, the fundamental issues regarding product selectivity control and dissociation mechanism during the UOR process have not been clarified. Here, we report that tuning the electron delocalization strength of Ni sites significantly affects the OH− binding sites, altering urea molecule dissociation patterns in alkaline systems. Using spinel NiCo2O4 as a model catalyst, the charge delocalization strength of nickel active centers is influenced by the degree of phosphorus‐substituted anions. Specifically, complete phosphorus‐substituted spinel enhances N2 selectivity up to 26.8 % with a peak current density of 300 mA ⋅ cm−2, while partial phosphorus‐substituted spinel achieves a Faraday efficiency of 78.1 % for liquid products (NOx−). Experiments and theory reveal that strong charge delocalization at Ni sites favors remote‐site attack on urea molecules by hydroxide ions, whereas weak delocalization prefers nearby‐site attack, enhancing UOR efficiency and suppressing OER in both pathways.
Chiroptical Response of Carbon Nanocages Enhanced by Achiral Guests
Authors: Hashikawa Yoshifumi , Fujimura Koki , Ueda Yoshihiro , Fukaya Norihisa , Kawabata Takeo , Murata Yasujiro
Published: November 2024

Opening up [60]fullerene makes itself inherently chiral without loss of congenital π‐conjugation. An immoderately large aperture on [60]fullerene, however, renders the molecule less rigid and therefore it would reduce dissymmetry factors. Herein, we examined supramolecular technique in geometrical reinforcement of chiral open‐[60]fullerenes by encasing achiral guests such as Ar, CO2, and CH3CN. At a lowest‐energy transition, we confirmed a guest‐dependency on chiroptical responses with increasing a dissymmetry factor by nearly twice to three times. It should be noted that the guests play a negligible role in electronic structures of the carbon cages. Instead, they are engaged in preclusion of an orifice shrinking not to reduce chiroptical response.
Identification and study of new NF‐κB‐inducing kinase ligands derived from the imidazolone scaffold
Authors: Maqueda‐Zelaya Francisco , Valiño‐Rivas Lara , Milián Ana , Gutiérrez Sara , Aceña José Luis , Garcia‐Marin Javier , Sánchez‐Niño Mª Dolores , Vaquero Juan J. , Ortiz Alberto
Published: November 2024

Chronic kidney disease (CKD) is a growing health concern, projected to be a major cause of death by 2040, due to an increasing risk of acute kidney injury (AKI). Systems biology‐derived data suggest that the unmet need for an orally available drug to treat AKI and improve CKD outcomes may be addressed by targeting kidney inflammation and, specifically, nuclear factor κB‐inducing kinase (NIK), a key signaling molecule that activates the noncanonical nuclear factor κB (NF‐κB) pathway. We have prepared and identified a small family of imidazolone derivatives that bind NIK and inhibit the noncanonical NF‐κB activation pathway. The introduction of heterocyclic substituents in position 2 of the imidazolone core provides compounds with affinity against human NIK. Three candidates, with best affinity profile, were tested in phenotypic experiments of noncanonical NF‐κB activation, confirming that the derivative bearing the 4‐pyridyl ring can inhibit the processing of NFκB p100 to NFkB2 p52, which is NIK‐dependent in cultured kidney tubular cells. Finally, exhaustive docking calculations combined with molecular dynamics studies led us to propose a theoretical binding mode and rationalize affinity measures, in which the aminopyridine motif is a key anchoring point to the hinge region thanks to several hydrogen bonds and the interaction of heterocyclic rings in position 2 with Ser476 and Lys482. Our result will pave the way for the development of potential drug candidates targeting NIK in the context of CKD.
First Electrodeposition of Silicon on Crumbled MXene (c‐Ti3C2Tx) for High‐Performance Lithium‐Ion Battery Negative Electrode
Authors: Butt Rehman , Gigi Aleena , Rabuel François , Morcrette Mathieu , Mallet Jeremy
Published: November 2024

The demand for high energy density Li‐ion batteries requires electrode materials with high capacity and long cycling stability. Silicon is among the most promising negative electrode materials due to its high theoretical capacity, abundant resources, and low working potential. However, its poor conductivity and significant volume expansion during cycling limit its practical application. To overcome these issues, this study develops a two‐step synthesis method for a nanostructured composite based on silicon as the active material. First, a crumbled Ti3C2Tx (c‐Ti3C2Tx) structure formed through electrostatic interaction between a Ti3C2Tx suspension and 1 M KOH. Then, an amorphous silicon layer is electrodeposited onto the c‐Ti3C2Tx flakes in a room‐temperature ionic liquid, creating the Si/c‐Ti3C2Tx composite for the negative electrode of Li‐ion batteries. The c‐Ti3C2Tx structure enhances conductivity, provides mechanical stability to accommodate silicon's expansion, and offers nanostructured porosity for lithium‐ion diffusion. The composite material demonstrates exceptional cycling stability, achieving a capacity of 1300 mAh g−1 at C/5 with 91 % capacity retention after 100 cycles.
Antidepressant‐ and Anxiolytic‐Like Effect of the Froriepia subpinnata Extract in the Rat: Neurochemical Correlates
Authors: Samandari‐Bahraseman Mohammad R. , Esmaeilzadeh‐Salestani Keyvan , Dogani Manijeh , Khaleghdoust Banafsheh , Hatami Nima , Esmaeili‐Mahani Saeed , Elyasi Leila , Loit Evelin , Harro Jaanus
Published: November 2024

Background

The study aims to explore the potential antianxiety effect of Froriepia subpinnata, a native plant in northern Iran, and it is considered an antiflatulent, appetizing, antiseptic, antispasmodic, and diuretic. Despite its widespread use in diets and its reputation for calming effects, no prior research has specifically investigated its antianxiety properties.

Methods

Rats were subjected to a variety of stressors for 24 days. Rats were treated with the F. subpinnata extract (100, 200, and 400 mg/kg, orally) for 14 days starting from the 10th day of stress. Then behavioral tests (elevated plus‐maze, open field, sucrose preference, Morris water maze, passive avoidance) were examined. Real‐time PCR was used to investigate changes in the expression of candidate genes of stress response and memory. Oxidative stress markers and corticosterone levels in serum were also measured.

Results

Chronic stress reduced performance in a variety of tests of anxiety and memory, and treatment with the F. subpinnata extract dose‐dependently improved the behavioral deficits caused by chronic stress. At the dose of 200 mg/kg, the F. subpinnata extract mitigated the effect of stress on the expression of several genes, such as those encoding dopamine D1 and D2 receptors, glutamate NMDA, and AMPA receptor subunits (Grin1 and Gria1, respectively), glucocorticoid and mineralocorticoid receptors, cholecystokinin (CCK) and CCKB receptor, neuropeptide Y, and the GABAA receptor alpha2 subunit. Also, the expression of two genes, TrkB and BDNF, was significantly affected by the extract, demonstrating meaningful decreasing changes. Furthermore, treatment with the extract led to a decrease in oxidative stress and an elevation in cortisol levels in stressed animals.

Conclusion

In this study, we provide the first evidence of the antistress and antianxiety effects of F. subpinnata extract, along with its potential procognitive impact on memory.
Tech expert addresses AI's benefits, pitfalls
Authors: McCarthy Claudine
Published: November 2024

PHILADELPHIA — About half of people who use artificial intelligence (more widely referred to as AI) don’t want anyone else to know. That's because they’re worried about seeming replaceable in their jobs, especially if they work in higher education. Or they’re concerned that AI use might not be permitted or that it qualifies as some form of cheating, according to Beth Ziesenis, Owner of yournerdybestfriend.com.
Mini‐Me Fashion Sharenting: Drivers, Consequences, and the Role of Market Mavens
Authors: Luong Van‐Ha , Manthiou Aikaterini , Liu Huaming , Hickman Ellie , Klaus Phil
Published: November 2024

The main purpose of this study is to investigate the psychological mechanisms that motivate sharenting behavior (the practice of parents sharing information and multimedia content about their children on social media) in the context of mini‐me fashion, where mothers or fathers wear matching outfits with their children. Based on mimicry behavior theory and self‐presentation, we use a mixed‐method approach to analyze 200 Instagram posts (study 1) and 303 surveys (study 2), and we examine the relationships of mimicry behavior and hedonism with self‐presentation and their impacts on brand engagement. The findings make theoretical contributions by confirming that mini‐me sharenting is considered an act of online self‐presentation primarily driven by hedonism and mimicry desire, thus leading to higher brand engagement and eWOM. Furthermore, the level of fashion market mavenism amplifies the impact of hedonism on brand engagement.
A Family of Single‐Switch High Step‐Up DC‐DC Converters Based on Switched‐Capacitor Converters
Authors: Fu Yu , Li Shouxiang , Zou Suli , Li Xiaolu Lucia , Yang Jingxi , Zhang Guoju
Published: November 2024

In this paper, a family of single‐switch high step‐up DC‐DC converters based on switched‐capacitor (SC) cells and coupled inductor (CL) or built‐in transformer (BIT) is proposed. By replacing one active switch in the 3X‐ladder switched‐capacitor converter (SCC) with the primary side of a CL or BIT whose secondary side is incorporated into a multiplexed current path, the proposed topology integrates the high power‐density feature of a ladder SCC with the voltage‐lift effect of a CL or BIT. In addition, the problems of high current spikes and limited efficiency in the voltage regulation range of the traditional ladder SCC are tackled, making them suitable for distributed generation systems, microgrids, and so forth. For illustration purposes, the performance of the topologies within the family is compared in multiple ways, detailed operation principles and design considerations of one specific converter are given. Finally, experimental results are presented to verify the analytical findings.
Moving beyond the plan: Exploring the opportunities to accelerate the implementation of municipal climate change adaptation policies and plans
Authors: Rogers Nina J. L. , Adams Vanessa M. , Byrne Jason A.
Published: November 2024

Across the globe, ecosystems, biodiversity and human societies are experiencing the escalating and often catastrophic impacts of anthropogenic climate change. Well‐considered, properly resourced and trans‐scalar adaptation responses are essential. Local governments (e.g., municipal councils) can provide crucial support to communities enabling planning, response and recovery from climate change impacts. While innumerable municipal climate change adaptation policies, strategies and plans have been developed, the implementation of adaptation actions typically lags, creating a planning‐to‐implementation gap. Contributing factors and the opportunities to overcome key constraints remain underexplored. This article reports the results of research addressing that knowledge gap analysing the circumstances that give rise to a municipal climate adaptation implementation gap, and the opportunities to progress from adaptation planning to implementation. Interviews with 25 local government leaders and staff reveal five key opportunities to advance the implementation of adaptation polices and plans—(i) mobilising novel finance solutions; (ii) developing an adaptation skills pipeline; (iii) building collaborative and trans‐disciplinary ways of working across municipal councils; (iv) enhancing the salience and prominence of adaptation as a core municipal concern and (v) legislating for municipal climate change adaptation mainstreaming. Establishing good climate governance and improving capacity for adaptation will be critical if local governments are to close the municipal climate change adaptation planning‐to‐implementation gap.
Unlocking the Potential of Emerging SrZrSe3 Solar Cells with Diverse Inorganic Metal Sulfide Hole Transport Layers
Authors: Vincent Mercy Eupsy Navis , Rasu Chettiar Aruna‐Devi , Marasamy Latha , Srinivasan Dhineshkumar
Published: November 2024

SrZrSe3 chalcogenide perovskites are being considered as an alternative to lead halide perovskite due to their promising optoelectronic properties. Nevertheless, choosing an hole transport layer (HTL) with optimal band alignment, superior carrier mobility, and low cost remains crucial for stable and efficient solar cells. In this regard, a series of inorganic metal sulfide HTLs such as FeS2, WS2, TiS2, HfS2, TaS2, and NiS2 is proposed to unveil its potential for novel SrZrSe3 absorber via SCAPS‐1D by varying the key parameters of electron transport layer, absorber, and HTLs respectively. Interestingly, optimizing their properties boosts the built‐in potential up to 1.06 V, resulting in effective separation and transportation of charge carriers toward their respective contacts. Furthermore, it increases absorption up to ≈6.5% by extending the absorption range toward the NIR region (700–850 nm) in all the solar cells. Finally, maximum power conversion efficiency of 21.77, 26.78, 27.60, 27.65, 27.63% with JSC of ≈29.3 mA cm−2 and less energy loss of ≈0.3 V for FeS2, WS2, TiS2, HfS2, TaS2, and NiS2 solar cells is accomplished. Thus, this work highlights the potential of SrZrSe3 solar cells with inorganic metal sulfide HTLs and sets the stage for its efficient fabrication.
Challenges and Insights Gained During the Implementation of Population‐Based Birth Defect (BD) Surveillance in a Tribal District of Maharashtra, India
Authors: Surve Suchitra , Gawai Priyanka , Kulkarni Ragini , Salvi Neha , Bodade Sanjay , Begum Shahina , Suryavanshi Dayanand , Chavan Milind , Pachalkar Ujwal , Pagi Pradeep , Chauhan Sanjay
Published: November 2024

Birth Defects (BDs) are a significant contributor to childhood mortality worldwide, yet BD surveillance and management in Low and Middle‐Income Countries (LMICs) like India remain under‐prioritised. This article presents findings from a population‐based BD surveillance conducted in the Palghar district, Maharashtra, India, aimed at identifying challenges and solutions in the implementation of BD surveillance. The data on BDs was collected between April 2021 and March 2023 from 38 Primary Health Centres (PHCs), nine Rural Hospitals (RH) and three Sub‐district Hospitals (SDH) from seven tribal blocks of Palghar district. A total of 402 BDs were identified during the study period through facility and community‐based approaches. Certain challenges were encountered at different levels of surveillance including underreporting by healthcare workers (ASHAs), non‐functional District Early Intervention Centres (DEICs), a non‐operational web portal for data entry and parenteral barriers attributing to screening, referral and management of BDs. Measures were taken to overcome these challenges comprising refresher training for ASHAs, the creation of communication channels and the distribution of educational materials. These initiatives encouraged and significantly improved the reporting of Visible BDs (VBDs) through ASHAs and programs (Rashtriya Bal Swasthya Karyakram) at the end of the reporting period. This study highlights that addressing these system shortcomings could be effectively achieved through intersectoral coordination and the involvement of Health Care Workers (HCWs) aligning with programme objectives. It further underscores the need for improved infrastructure and training to enhance BD surveillance effectiveness in South Asian countries, especially in tribal regions.
Predicting and Explaining Assessment Center Judgments: A Cross‐Validated Behavioral Approach to Performance Judgments in Interpersonal Assessment Center Exercises
Authors: Grunenberg Eric , Stachl Clemens , Breil Simon M. , Schäpers Philipp , Back Mitja D.
Published: November 2024

Although Assessment Center (AC) role‐play assessments have received ample attention in past research, their reliance on actual behavioral information is still unclear. Uncovering the behavioral basis of AC role‐play assessments is, however, a prerequisite for the optimization of existing and the development of novel automated AC procedures. This work provides a first data‐driven benchmark for the behavioral prediction and explanation of AC performance judgments. We used machine learning models trained on behavioral cues (C = 36) to predict performance judgments in three interpersonal AC exercises from a real‐life high‐stakes AC (selection of medical students, N = 199). Three main findings emerged: First, behavioral prediction models showed substantial predictive performance and outperformed prediction models representing potential judgment biases. Comparisons with in‐sample results revealed overfitting of traditional approaches, highlighting the importance of out‐of‐sample evaluations. Second, we demonstrate that linear combinations of behavioral cues can be strong predictors of assessors' judgments. Third, we identified consistent exercise‐specific patterns of individual cues and cross‐exercise consistent behavioral patterns of behavioral dimensions and interpersonal strategies that were especially predictive of the assessors' judgments. We discuss implications for future research and practice.
Displacement and menstrual shame for adolescent girls in South Sudan's humanitarian crises: A cross‐sectional analysis
Authors: Spiller Ellen , Blackwell Alexandra , Ayella Cosmas , Falb Kathryn
Published: November 2024

Synopsis

This study investigates the association between forced displacement and the experience of menstrual shame, highlighting age and current displacement as influential factors of menstrual wellbeing amidst humanitarian crises.
LiteEncrypt: A Lightweight Block Cipher for Secure Communication in IoT Enabled Sensor
Authors: Sahay Rashmi , Lakshmi Lingutla , Dodhiawala Zion
Published: November 2024

The resource‐constrained characteristics of the Internet of Things (IoT) sensors lead to a pressing security requirement for developing lightweight cryptographic algorithms. This work introduces and analyzes a novel lightweight cryptographic algorithm for resource‐constrained devices. The algorithm is based on the Feistel structure in which the round function combines circular shifts, XOR, and key addition operation for data encryption and decryption. With a key size of 128 bits and a block size of 64 bits, the algorithm employs Linear Feedback Shift Registers (LFSR) for key generation. The algorithm's security is evaluated by examining its adherence to the avalanche criterion, a critical property for robust encryption. A comprehensive comparison is made between the proposed algorithm and a previously developed lightweight encryption algorithm, which also utilized LFSR for key generation in terms of avalanche effect, execution time and energy consumption. The proposed cipher is found to be significantly faster with an encryption time of 88 microseconds on Android Uno. The proposed cipher is also faster and consumed less energy in ESP 32, STM Nucleo, and Android Nano.
Management costs influence golfer perceptions of turfgrass quality and playability
Authors: Amundsen Keenan , Thompson Cole , Kreuser William , Gaussoin Roch
Published: November 2024

Research was conducted to determine if turfgrass quality and playability perceptions of golf course fairway plots of buffalograss (Bouteloua dactyloides [Nutt.] Columbus), creeping bentgrass (Agrostis stolonifera L.), and Kentucky bluegrass (Poa pratensis L.) managed at a 1.27‐cm mowing height changed after participants were informed of management costs. A field study was designed with species as main plots, split with different irrigation, fertility, and pest control inputs that influenced management costs. Study participants indicated their golf ability level and playing frequency. Participants rated plots (0 for acceptable or 1 for not acceptable) for visual quality and playability as a golf course fairway. Participants were then informed of management cost ranges for described treatments and rated the plots again. The number of acceptable ratings for quality and playability were compared between informed and uniformed groups. Quality and playability perceptions changed the most between informed and uninformed groups for irrigation treatments. At the lowest cost group, buffalograss had the greatest increase in acceptability for quality and playability between informed and uninformed groups. Informing clientele about management costs may increase rate of turfgrass acceptability at reduced management inputs.
Encourage volunteerism for team building
Authors: Hodges Dawn Z.
Published: November 2024

You know those really old people who volunteer at the hospital? Well, that now describes my husband and me. My husband drives a golf cart in the parking lots, carrying the visitors and patients to and fro. I sit at the front desk of one of the two medical office buildings that sit on the hospital campus. I smile, say hi, and answer simple questions. I’m not unlike the greeters at the big‐box stores, except I wear a red vest rather than a blue one.
A Metabolomics Strategy Combining Countercurrent Separation and qNMR for the Comprehensive Chemical Evaluation of Polygoni Multiflori Radix Processing
Authors: Ngo Trung Huy , Lee Yoon‐Jin , Choi Hyukjae , Song Kyung‐Sik , Lee Kyu Joon , Nam Joo‐Won
Published: November 2024

Introduction

Polygoni Multiflori Radix (PMR) is commonly used in traditional medicine as both raw and processed forms. Raw PMR was prepared into processed PMR via processing procedure; however, there is a lack of standardized protocols ensuring the completeness of processing.

Objective

This aims to develop a strategy based on a metabolomics approach for the comprehensive chemical profiling and comparison of raw and processed PMR and establish a basis for PMR processing standardization.

Materials and Methods

Methanol extracts of raw and processed PMR were fractionated by centrifugal partition chromatography (CPC) with an optimized two‐phase solvent system based on the partition coefficient calculated from the shake‐flask method to produce primary (1°Ms)‐ and secondary metabolites (2°Ms)‐enriched fractions. These fractions were profiled by 1D and 2D and selective 1D NMR experiments, spectral fitting, and comparison with reference standards. The profiled compounds were quantified via quantitative 1H NMR (qHNMR) to show the chemical changes, which were correlated with changes in antioxidant effects on H2452 cells.

Results

A CPC method was developed to efficiently separate 1°Ms‐ and 2°Ms‐enriched fractions. This method achieved high purity of the major stilbene in PMR in a single run. qHNMR effectively quantified four 2°Ms and twenty‐one 1°Ms in both raw and processed PMR, including meso‐butane‐2,3‐diol, which was first reported from processed PMR. Changes in chemical composition of PMR because of processing are highly correlated to the increase of antioxidant activity.

Conclusion

A convenient and cost‐effective strategy for the comprehensive chemical profiling of raw and processed PMR was developed by combining countercurrent separation and qHNMR. This approach will contribute to the standardization of medicinal herbal materials.
Classification Analysis of Transition Metal Compounds Using Quantum Machine Learning
Authors: Vedavyasa Kurudi V , Kumar Ashok
Published: November 2024

Quantum machine learning (QML) leverages the potential of machine learning (ML) to explore the subtle patterns in huge datasets of complex nature with quantum advantages. QML accelerates materials research with active screening of chemical space, identifying novel materials for practical applications, and classifying structurally diverse materials given their measured properties. This study analyzes the performance of three efficient quantum machine learning algorithms viz., variational quantum classifier (VQC), quantum support vector classifier (QSVC), and quantum neural networks (QNN) for distinguishing transition metal chalcogenides (TMCs) from transitional metal oxides (TMOs). By employing feature selection, classical machine learning achieves 100% accuracy whereas QML achieves the highest performance of 99% and 98% for test and train data respectively on QSVC. Further, to extend the QML models for structural and functional analysis of materials that cannot be inferred directly from the formula, stability analysis, and magnetic nature analysis on 1000 and 500 materials are performed, respectively. The stability analysis achieves 78% accuracy with QSVC and the magnetic nature analysis achieves 88% with QNN establishing the competence of QML models. This study proves that QML models are remarkable in materials classification and analysis which fuels the task of materials discovery in the future.