bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Novel mechanism of cisplatin resistance in head and neck squamous cell carcinoma involving extracellular vesicles and a copper transporter system
Authors: Ogawa Tatsuo , Ono Kisho , Ryumon Shoji , Kawai Hotaka , Nakamura Tomoya , Umemori Koki , Yoshida Kunihiro , Kanemoto Hideka , Obata Kyoichi , Yoshioka Norie , Okui Tatsuo , Okamoto Kuniaki , Nagatsuka Hitoshi , Ibaragi Soichiro
Published: January 2024

Background

Cisplatin (CDDP) plays a central role in chemotherapy for head and neck squamous cell carcinoma (HNSCC), but drug resistance in HNSCC chemotherapy remains a problem, and the mechanism of CDDP resistance is unclear. We investigated CDDP‐resistance mechanisms mediated by extracellular vesicles (EVs) and ATPase copper transporting beta (ATP7B) in HNSCC.

Methods

We established CDDP‐resistant sublines of HNSCC cells and verified their ATP7B expression. We used an EV secretion inhibitor (GW4869) and ATP7B short hairpin (sh)RNA transfection to examine the correlation between EV secretion and ATP7B expression.

Results

The CDDP‐resistant HNSCC sublines showed decreased CDDP sensitivity and increased ATP7B expression. GW4869 suppressed ATP7B expression, and ATP7B shRNA transfection suppressed EV secretion. The suppressions of EV secretion and ATP7B expression both enhanced CDDP's cell‐killing effect.

Conclusions

EVs were involved in the ATP7B‐mediated mechanism underlying CDDP resistance. Further clarification of the EV‐induced CDDP‐resistance mechanism may lead to novel therapeutic strategies for HNSCC.
Recent advances in the characterization of essential genes and development of a database of essential genes
Authors: Liang Ya‐Ting , Luo Hao , Lin Yan , Gao Feng
Published: January 2024

Over the past few decades, there has been a significant interest in the study of essential genes, which are crucial for the survival of an organism under specific environmental conditions and thus have practical applications in the fields of synthetic biology and medicine. An increasing amount of experimental data on essential genes has been obtained with the continuous development of technological methods. Meanwhile, various computational prediction methods, related databases and web servers have emerged accordingly. To facilitate the study of essential genes, we have established a database of essential genes (DEG), which has become popular with continuous updates to facilitate essential gene feature analysis and prediction, drug and vaccine development, as well as artificial genome design and construction. In this article, we summarized the studies of essential genes, overviewed the relevant databases, and discussed their practical applications. Furthermore, we provided an overview of the main applications of DEG and conducted comprehensive analyses based on its latest version. However, it should be noted that the essential gene is a dynamic concept instead of a binary one, which presents both opportunities and challenges for their future development.
Soil enzyme profile analysis for indicating decomposer micro‐food web
Authors: Xing Wen , Hu Ning , Li Zhongfang , Feng Liangshan , Zhang Weidong , Du Preez Gerhard , Zhang Huimin , Li Dongchu , Lu Shunbao , Chang Scott X. , Zhang Qingwen , Lou Yilai
Published: January 2024

Highly diverse exoenzymes mediate the energy flow from substrates to the multitrophic microbiota within the soil decomposer micro‐food web. Here, we used a “soil enzyme profile analysis” approach to establish a series of enzyme profile indices; those indices were hypothesized to reflect micro‐food web features. We systematically evaluated the shifts in enzyme profile indices in relation to the micro‐food web features in the restoration of an abandoned cropland to a natural area. We found that enzymatic C:N stoichiometry and decomposability index were significantly associated with substrate availability. Furthermore, the higher Shannon diversity index in the exoenzyme profile, especially for the C‐degrading hydrolase, corresponded to a greater microbiota community diversity. The increased complexity and stability of the exoenzyme network reflected similar changes with the micro‐food web networks. In addition, the gross activity of the enzyme profile as a parameter for soil multifunctionality, effectively predicted the substrate content, microbiota community size, diversity, and network complexity. Ultimately, the proposed enzymic channel index was closely associated with the traditional decomposition channel indices derived from microorganisms and nematodes. Our results showed that soil enzyme profile analysis reflected very well the decomposer food web features. Our study has important implications for projecting future climate change or anthropogenic disturbance impacts on soil decomposer micro‐food web features by using soil enzyme profile analysis.
Machine learning‐assisted serum SERS strategy for rapid and non‐invasive screening of early cystic echinococcosis
Authors: Zheng Xiangxiang , Li Jintian , Lü Guodong , Li Xiaojing , Lü Xiaoyi , Wu Guohua , Xu Liang
Published: January 2024

Early and accurate diagnosis of cystic echinococcosis (CE) with existing technologies is still challenging. Herein, we proposed a novel strategy based on the combination of label‐free serum surface‐enhanced Raman scattering (SERS) spectroscopy and machine learning for rapid and non‐invasive diagnosis of early‐stage CE. Specifically, by establishing early‐ and middle‐stage mouse models, the corresponding CE‐infected and normal control serum samples were collected, and silver nanoparticles (AgNPs) were utilized as the substrate to obtain SERS spectra. The early‐ and middle‐stage discriminant models were developed using a support vector machine, with diagnostic accuracies of 91.7% and 95.7%, respectively. Furthermore, by analyzing the serum SERS spectra, some biomarkers that may be related to early CE were found, including purine metabolites and protein‐related amide bands, which was consistent with other biochemical studies. Thus, our findings indicate that label‐free serum SERS analysis is a potential early‐stage CE detection method that is promising for clinical translation.
Arginine‐methylated c‐Myc affects mitochondrial mitophagy in mouse acute kidney injury via Slc25a24
Authors: Liu Ying , Liu Naiquan , He Ping , Cao Shiyu , Li Huabing , Liu Dajun
Published: January 2024

The transcription factor methylated c‐Myc heterodimerizes with MAX to modulate gene expression, and plays an important role in energy metabolism in kidney injury but the exact mechanism remains unclear. Mitochondrial solute transporter Slc25a24 imports ATP into mitochondria and is central to energy metabolism. Gene Expression Omnibus data analysis reveals Slc25a24 and c‐Myc are consistently upregulated in all the acute kidney injury (AKI) cells. Pearson correlation analysis also shows that Slc25a24 and c‐Myc are strongly correlated (⍴ > 0.9). Mutant arginine methylated c‐Myc (R299A and R346A) reduced its combination with MAX when compared with the wild type of c‐Myc. On the other hand, the Slc25a24 levels were also correspondingly reduced, which induced the downregulation of ATP production. The results promoted reactive oxygen species (ROS) production and mitophagy generation. The study revealed that the c‐Myc overexpression manifested the most pronounced mitochondrial DNA depletion. Additionally, the varied levels of mitochondrial proteins like TIM23, TOM20, and PINK1 in each group, particularly the elevated levels of PINK1 in AKI model groups and lower levels of TIM23 and TOM20 in the c‐Myc overexpression group, suggest potential disruptions in mitochondrial dynamics and homeostasis, indicating enhanced mitophagy or mitochondrial loss. Therefore, arginine‐methylated c‐Myc affects mouse kidney injury by regulating mitochondrial ATP and ROS, and mitophagy via Slc25a24.
From risk assessment to land planning. The case of a trace element‐contaminated area in Chile
Authors: Mondaca Pedro , Berasaluce Maite , Larraguibel‐González Cristián , Salazar Andrés , Nuñez‐Hidalgo Ignacio , Díaz‐Siefer Pablo
Published: January 2024

While abundant scientific literature focuses on diagnosing contaminated areas, solutions with a scientific base are far from balanced. This is the case of the Quintero‐Puchuncaví Bay, a widely known contaminated area in the central coast of Chile. Here, arsenic in soils surrounding the industrial complex has been reported as a threat to human health. However, land planning based on As contamination becomes a challenge since the whole area is identified as contaminated. Such a lack of land‐planning constrains the occupation and remediation of contaminated soil leading to a brownfield‐like landscape. To face this challenge, we proposed using a geospatial decision support system (S‐DSS) to integrate the contamination assessment, health and ecosystem risks, and potential land uses. When characterizing soil arsenic concentration thresholds for different land uses in a S‐DSS, we could categorize the land in suitable, caution, and unsuitable areas (based on human health risks). This way, we unravel areas with potential use in the current condition while also discerning caution and unsuitable categories, that can undergo extensive and intensive remediation techniques. Similarly, we took a conservational approach to estimate emerging risk from the industrial complex associated to explosions. Altogether, it highlights the potential of S‐DSS to integrate different geographic information. We finally feature two APPs regarding current land‐use suitability and a modeled one considering future arsenic emissions.
Soft and Stretchable Humidity‐Insensitive Thermoresistive Temperature Sensor with A Tensile Strain Modulated Sensitivity
Authors: Albeltagi Ahmed , Tolvanen Jarkko , Bhalerao Sagar R. , Hannu Jari
Published: January 2024

Soft and stretchable electronics represents a high potential paradigm shift in field of electronics, for example, in applications related to solar cells, organic displays, electronic skin, and wearable sensors. In this work, a soft and stretchable humidity‐insensitive thermoresistive sensor is developed using interdigitated electrodes made of silver‐plated nylon fabric coated with silver‐ink and a layer of poly(3,4‐ethylenedioxythiophene)–poly(styrene sulfonate) (PEDOT: PSS) embedded into elastomer. The mechanical and thermoelectrical properties of the soft sensor are characterized and analyzed. The fabricated soft sensor provides a combination of linear temperature sensitivity of 0.46% °C−1 with an R2 of 0.986 from 30 to 55 °C at 0% uniaxial tensile strain. It also exhibits excellent stability in environmental humidity ranging from ≈30% RH to ≈80% RH. The linear sensitivity is improved to 1.49% °C−1 by applying a 40% pre‐measurement stretch to the sensor. Due to its good temperature sensitivity (0.46 to 1.49% °C−1), excellent linearity (0.986), and high stretchability (≈125%), the soft and stretchable temperature sensor proves to be a very promising solution for wearable temperature sensing.
The effect of aquaporin‐4 inhibition on cerebrospinal fluid‐tissue water exchange in mouse brain detected by magnetization transfer indirect spin labeling MRI
Authors: Chen Zilin , Lai Joseph H. C. , Xu Jiadi , Zhang Hao , Huang Jianpan , Chan Kannie W. Y.
Published: January 2024

The fluid transport of cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) and interstitial fluid in surrounding tissues plays an important role in the drainage pathway that facilitates waste clearance from the brain. This pathway is known as the glymphatic or perivascular system, and its functions are dependent on aquaporin‐4 (AQP4). Recently, magnetization transfer indirect spin labeling (MISL) magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) has been proposed as a noninvasive and noncontrast‐enhanced method for detecting water exchange between CSF and brain tissue. In this study, we first optimized the MISL sequence at preclinical 3 T MRI, and then studied the correlation of MISL in CSF with magnetization transfer (MT) in brain tissue, as well as the altered water exchange under AQP4 inhibition, using C57BL/6 mice. Results showed a strong correlation of MISL signal with MT signal. With the AQP4 inhibitor, we observed a significant decrease in MISL value (P < 0.05), suggesting that the hampered AQP4 activity led to decreased water exchange between CSF and brain tissue or the impairment of the glymphatic function. Overall, our findings demonstrate the potential application of MISL in assessing brain water exchange at 3 T MRI and its potential clinical translation.
Impact and notched strength of multiaxially reinforced out of die UV cured pultruded profiles
Authors: Ruiz de Eguino I. , Tena I. , Saenz‐Dominguez I. , Sarrionandia M. , Aurrekoetxea J.
Published: January 2024

The present paper highlights the benefits of multiaxially reinforced profiles manufactured by out of die ultraviolet (UV) cured pultrusion. Thanks to the low pulling forces inherent to this technology, we could manufacture a quasi‐isotropic laminate with high fiber content (62% in volume). Even if just one fifth of the reinforcement was arranged longitudinally, the fiber orientation at the ±45° and 90° layers was not distorted. The in‐plane properties of this new balanced reinforcement configuration improved the impact and notched resistance compared to a reference configuration typical of conventional pultrusion, consisting of roving and continuous strand mats. Additionally, the tensile strength achieved in the transversal direction for the new configuration was an order of magnitude higher. Therefore, this novel technology has the potential to broaden the applications targeted by pultrusion to those where multiaxial load cases could be encountered.

Highlights

Multiaxially reinforced profiles were made by out of die UV cured pultrusion.

These profiles presented enhanced in‐plane properties.

Impact resistance was better than that of a typical reinforcement configuration.

Notched tensile strength was also improved in both principal directions.
Progressive damage analysis of Z‐pin reinforced composite laminates based on CDM
Authors: Shi Haolin , Guo Zhangxin , Niu Weijing , Zhang Yifan , Li Yongcun , Luan Yunbo
Published: January 2024

A RVE finite element model was developed, and the effective mechanical properties were predicted by analyzing the fine structure of Z‐pin reinforced composite laminates. A new damage criterion based on strain description is adopted, a progressive damage analysis model is established and progressive damage analysis is carried out, which provides a reference for further research on Z‐pin reinforced composites. By applying both longitudinal tensile and in‐plane shear loads to the RVE, the material strength prediction was carried out the damage evolution process was emphasized, and the stress–strain curves of the material as well as the damage modes and damage levels in different regions were finally predicted. From the damage evolution process, it can be seen that the damage in the fiber direction and the damage in the transverse direction appear the earliest and have the highest percentage of failure.

Highlights

The RVE model was developed and its effective mechanical properties were predicted.

A new damage criterion is introduced, a UMAT subroutine is written, and a progressive damage model is developed.

Material strength predictions were made for the RVE and the damage evolution process was emphasized.
Prenatal diagnosis of pontocerebellar hypoplasia with postnatal follow‐up
Authors: Jaillard Alienor , Valence Stéphanie , Vande Perre Saskia , Dhombres Ferdinand , Héron Delphine , Billette de Villemeur Thierry , Keren Boris , Afenjar Alexandra , Qebibo Leila , Harion Madeleine , Quenum‐Miraillet Geneviève , Rodriguez Diana , Jouannic Jean‐Marie , Burglen Lydie , Garel Catherine
Published: January 2024

Objective

To describe the MR features enabling prenatal diagnosis of pontocerebellar hypoplasia (PCH).

Method

This was a retrospective single monocentre study. The inclusion criteria were decreased cerebellar biometry on dedicated neurosonography and available fetal Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) with PCH diagnosis later confirmed either genetically or clinically on post‐natal MRI or by autopsy. The exclusion criteria were non‐available MRI and sonographic features suggestive of a known genetic or other pathologic diagnosis. The collected data were biometric or morphological imaging parameters, clinical outcome, termination of pregnancy (TOP), pathological findings and genetic analysis (karyotyping, chromosomal microarray, DNA sequencing targeted or exome). PCH was classified as classic, non‐classic, chromosomal, or unknown type.

Results

Forty‐two fetuses were diagnosed with PCH, of which 27 were referred for decreased transverse cerebellar diameter at screening ultrasound. Neurosonography and fetal MRI were performed at a mean gestational age of 29 + 4 and 31 + 0 weeks, respectively. Termination of pregnancy occurred. Pregnancy was terminated in 24 cases. Neuropathological examination confirmed the diagnosis in 24 cases and genetic testing identified abnormalities in 29 cases (28 families, 14 chromosomal anomaly). Classic PCH is associated with pontine atrophy and small MR measurements decreasing with advancing gestation.

Conclusion

This is the first large series of prenatally diagnosed PCHs. Our study shows the essential contribution of fetal MRI to the prenatal diagnosis of PCH. Classic PCHs are particularly severe and are associated with certain MR features.
Synergistic Performance of MoS2/In0.53Ga0.47As Staggered Heterojunction for Broadband Optoelectronics
Authors: Yang Hee Kwon , Oh Guen Hyung , Jeong Tae Jin , Kim Tae Wan , Kim Sung , Kim Hong Hyuk , Shin Jae Cheol
Published: January 2024

MoS2, a 2D transition metal dichalcogenide, has received significant attention for next‐generation electrical and optical devices due to its excellent optical and electrical properties, including high electron mobility and a direct bandgap. Beyond conventional 2D‐based device architectures, the exploration of 2D and bulk (3D) heterojunctions has revealed unique electronic performance in 2D and structural stability in 3D. III–V semiconductors such as InGaxAs1−x have a direct bandgap with a broad tunability range (i.e., 0.35–1.4 eV), offering an ideal choice for optoelectronic applications. Herein, a type‐II staggered heterojunction between p‐type MoS2 and n‐type In0.53Ga0.47As is demonstrated. The p‐MoS2/n‐In0.53Ga0.47As heterostructure shows the photoresponsivity in the wavelength range from 400  to 1700 nm with typical rectifying diode characteristics. These results highligh the potential of the p‐MoS2/n‐In0.53Ga0.47As heterostructure for high‐performance devices, opening avenues for diverse applications.
Formation tracking control for an air–ground system under position deviations and wind disturbances
Authors: Cui Lei , Liang Shiqing , Yang Hongjiu , Zuo Zhiqiang
Published: January 2024

In this paper, a formation tracking control strategy based on a leader–follower structure is investigated under position deviations and wind disturbances for an air–ground system. A backstepping controller is designed to achieve the expected trajectory‐tracking performance for the leader which is a car‐like vehicle. A robust nonsingular integral terminal sliding mode formation controller based on leader–follower formation errors is presented to provide desired positions under the influence of position deviation for the follower which is a quadrotor. A backstepping‐based adaptive recursive sliding mode position controller is proposed for the follower to ensure tracking accuracy under wind disturbances. Comparison experiments with existing studies show superior performances and effectiveness of the proposed control method for the air–ground system.
Geomorphic context in process‐based river restoration
Authors: Wohl Ellen , Rathburn Sara , Dunn Sarah , Iskin Emily , Katz Aaron , Marshall Anna , Means‐Brous Mickey , Scamardo Julianne , Triantafillou Shayla , Uno Hiromi
Published: January 2024

Process‐based river restoration seeks to restore processes such as channel‐floodplain connectivity that create and maintain river corridor functions. Process‐based restoration can fail to produce the desired results if geomorphic context is not effectively incorporated into restoration design. Geomorphic context of a river reach refers to the controls on contemporary river form and process. Controls at the catchment‐ to reach‐scale include geologic history, biophysical characteristics, legacies of past human alterations, position within the river network, river corridor geometry, base level stability, disturbance regime, and contemporary human alterations of the river corridor. We conceptualize a river corridor as reflecting the interactions among fluxes of material and the geomorphic context. We discuss how an understanding of geomorphic context can be used to select a restoration approach and provide examples of how restoration can fail to achieve desired outcomes when geomorphic context is not considered. Within the toolbox of methods used to implement process‐based restoration, we differentiate the alteration of inputs to the river corridor and fluxes of material through the corridor from alteration of form and/or connectivity within the river corridor. Historical, biotic, geologic/geomorphic, and reference sites can be used to inform process‐based restoration targets. Restoration is strongly influenced by human perceptions of what is appropriate and achievable at a site and diverse communities influencing restoration at a site may differ in their perceptions. Geomorphically based conceptual guidelines, such as the River Styles Framework, provide an effective platform for incorporating an understanding of geomorphic context into process‐based river restoration.
An exploratory study of stakeholder views on the sustainable development of mountain tourism
Authors: Colasante Annarita , D'Adamo Idiano , De Massis Alfredo , Italiano Simone
Published: January 2024

Sustainable tourism can combine recreation for people, economic opportunities for entrepreneurs, and environmental protection, but for mountain tourism, climate change and the predicted reductions in snowfall require urgent action. Therefore, this study aims to identify sustainable mountain tourism strategies and consumption patterns using a multi‐criteria decision methodology and data collected through an online survey and expert opinions. The results show the importance of stakeholder engagement and the relevance of three strategies: (i) zero‐emission lodges; (ii) energy communities, and (iii) zero‐emission ski lifts. As well as pointing out the need for sustainability awareness and education. While respondents pay a great deal of attention to sustainability, the analysis highlights three policy interventions to safeguard mountain tourism: (i) financing the conversion of facilities; (ii) expanding infrastructure to reach mountain resorts, and (iii) rewarding consumers for choosing a certified zero‐emission resort.
Characterization of peroxide on coal surface: A combined △SCF and XPS study
Authors: Liu Hao , Li Zenghua
Published: January 2024

X‐ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS) is widely used to determine the composition of elements and oxygen‐containing functional groups. Accurate determination of core‐electron binding energies (CEBEs) is essential for identifying the types and contents of oxygen‐functional groups present on the surface of coal. The △SCF method has been carried out on CEBEs for an extensive series of oxygen‐containing organic systems encompassing the most common functionalities. The polymers for which experimental values are available for comparison demonstrate the adequacy of the treatment for describing CEBEs for the O1s core level. Therefore, a sound basis is provided for the discussion of CEBEs (O1s) for functionalities for which experimental values are not accurate or available, such as carbonyl, carboxyl, and peroxide. The results are applied to the XPS study of oxidized coal. The change law of peroxide and oxygen‐containing functional groups was discussed. The calculation method and results in this paper can provide a guide for readers to use XPS to study the oxidation of coal surfaces.
Electrochemical Investigations of Sulfur‐Decorated Organic Materials as Cathodes for Alkali Batteries
Authors: Fu Qiang , Zhao Lei , Luo Xianlin , Hobich Jan , Döpping Daniel , Rehnlund David , Mutlu Hatice , Dsoke Sonia
Published: January 2024

Alkali metal–sulfur batteries (particularly, lithium/sodium‐ sulfur (Li/Na–S)) have attracted much attention because of their high energy density, the natural abundance of sulfur, and environmental friendliness. However, Li/Na–S batteries still face big challenges, such as limited cycle life, poor conductivity, large volume changes, and the “shuttle effect” caused by the high solubility of Li/Na–polysulfides. Herein, novel organosulfur‐containing materials, i.e., bis(4‐hydroxy‐2,2,6,6‐tetramethylpiperidin‐1‐yl)disulfide (BiTEMPS‐OH) and 2,4‐thiophene/arene copolymer (TAC) are proposed as cathode materials for Li and Na batteries. BiTEMPS‐OH shows an initial discharge/charge capacity of 353/192 mAh g−1 and a capacity of 62 mAh g−1 after 200 cycles at 100 mA g−1 in ether‐based Li‐ion electrolyte. Meanwhile, TAC has an initial discharge/charge capacity of 270/248 mAh g−1 and better cycling performance (106 mAh g−1 after 200 cycles) than BiTEMPS‐OH in the same electrolyte. However, the rate capability of TAC is limited by the slow diffusion of Li‐ions. Both materials show inferior electrochemical performances in Na battery cells compared to the Li analogs. X‐ray powder diffraction reveals that BiTEMPS‐OH loses its crystalline structure permanently upon cycling in Li battery cells. X‐ray photoelectron spectroscopy demonstrates the cleavage and partially reversible formation of S−S bonds in BiTEMPS‐OH and the formation/decomposition of thick solid electrolyte interphase on the electrode surface of TAC.
Reconfigurable and orthogonal stiffness‐structure patterning of dynamically crosslinked amphigels
Authors: Yang Chen , Zheng Weizhong , Ni Chujun , Li Ye , Chen Di , Xie Tao , Zhao Qian
Published: January 2024

Patterning diversified properties and surface structure of polymer materials are of great importance toward their potential in biology, optics, and electronics. However, achieving both the patternability of stiffness and microstructure in a reconfigurable manner remains challenging. Here, we prepare amphigels crosslinked by dynamic disulfide bonds, which can be reversibly swollen by immiscible water or liquid paraffin. In the paraffingel form, the materials exhibited a high modulus of 130 MPa due to densified hydrogen bonds. Whereas swollen by water, the modulus fell over two orders of magnitude owing to the destruction of the hydrogen bonds. Via regionalized swelling of the solvents, well‐controlled and rewritable soft/stiff mechanical patterns can be created. On the other hand, the dynamic exchange of the disulfide crosslinking enables mechanophoto patterning to fabricate sophisticated macrogeometries and microstructures. The reconfigurable stiffness‐structure patterning can be manipulated orthogonally, which will create more application opportunities beyond conventional hydrogels and organogels.
Organic transistor‐based integrated circuits for future smart life
Authors: Xie Yifan , Ding Chenming , Jin Qingqing , Zheng Lei , Xu Yunqi , Xiao Hongmei , Cheng Miao , Zhang Yanqin , Yang Guanhua , Li Mengmeng , Li Ling , Liu Ming
Published: January 2024

With the rapid development of advanced technologies in the Internet of Things era, higher requirements are needed for next‐generation electronic devices. Fortunately, organic thin film transistors (OTFTs) provide an effective solution for electronic skin and flexible wearable devices due to their intrinsic features of mechanical flexibility, lightweight, simple fabrication process, and good biocompatibility. So far considerable efforts have been devoted to this research field. This article reviews recent advances in various promising and state‐of‐the‐art OTFTs as well as related integrated circuits with the main focuses on: (I) material categories of high‐mobility organic semiconductors for both individual transistors and integrated circuits; (II) effective device architectures and processing techniques for large‐area fabrication; (III) important performance metrics of organic integrated circuits and realization of digital and analog devices for future smart life; (IV) applicable analytical models and design flow to accelerate the circuit design. In addition, the emerging challenges of OTFT‐based integrated circuits, such as transistor uniformity and stability are also discussed, and the possible methods to solve these problems at both transistor and circuit levels are summarized.
Charge‐switchable ligand ameliorated cobalt polyphthalocyanine polymers for high‐current‐density electrocatalytic CO2 reduction
Authors: Kong Xin , Liu Bin , Tong Zhongqiu , Bao Rui , Yi Jianhong , Bu Shuyu , Liu Yunpeng , Wang Pengfei , Lee Chun‐Sing , Zhang Wenjun
Published: January 2024

Metallic phthalocyanines are promising electrocatalysts for CO2 reduction reaction (CO2RR). However, their catalytic activity and stability (especially under high potential) are still unsatisfactory. Herein, we synthesized a covalent organic polymer (COP‐CoPc) by introducing charge‐switchable viologen ligands into cobalt phthalocyanine (CoPc). The COP‐CoPc exhibits great activity for CO2RR, including a high Faradaic efficiency over a wide potential window and the highest CO partial current density among all ligand‐tuned phthalocyanine catalysts reported in the H‐type cell. Particularly, COP‐CoPc also shows great potential for practical applications, for example, a FECO of >95% is realized at a large current density of 150 mA/cm2 in a two‐electrode membrane electrode assembly reactor. Ex situ and in situ X‐ray absorption fine structure spectroscopy measurements and theory calculations reveal that when the charge‐switchable viologen ligands switch to neutral‐state ones, they can act as electron donors to enrich the electron density of Co centers in COP‐CoPc and enhance the desorption of *CO, thus improving the CO selectivity. Moreover, the excellent reversible redox capability of viologen ligands and the increased Co–N bonding strength in the Co–N4 sites enable COP‐CoPc to possess outstanding stability under elevated potentials and currents, enriching the knowledge of charge‐switchable ligands tailored CO2RR performance.
BF3‐induced reversible covalent organic framework radicals
Authors: Zhang Shiwei , Wang Xin , Kang Fangyuan , Gu Qianfeng , Sun Guohan , Peng Yung‐Kang , Zhang Qichun
Published: January 2024

The integration of radials into covalent organic frameworks (COFs) would have a profound effect on their applications in spin devices since such radical arrays can offer scientists an additional dimension to manipulate electron spins and maximize the function of organic optoelectrical devices. However, such realization (especially reversible radicals) is very challenging. In this article, using a fluorene‐based benzoquinone‐derived monomer (M) as the building unit, we successfully synthesized a boroxine‐linked COF (named CityU‐3), whose crystallinity and chemical composition were confirmed by powder X‐ray diffraction (PXRD), Fourier‐transform infrared (FT‐IR) spectroscopy, solid‐state 13C cross‐polarization magic‐angle‐spinning (CP/MAS) NMR, and X‐ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS). Interestingly, CityU‐3 can be converted into its radical form by treating with BF3·Et2O, which is associated with a color change from red to black, and vice versa upon heating. The as‐formed radicals have been confirmed by electron paramagnetic resonance (EPR) spectroscopy. It is worth pointing out that the cycles between radical formation and disappearance would not affect its crystallinity and structure. The reversible COF radicals would have great applications in organic spin devices.
A new authentication scheme for dynamic charging system of electric vehicles in fog environment
Authors: Huang Zhongming , Wang Feng , Chang Chin‐Chen , Chen Xiuqiang
Published: January 2024

The dynamic charging system of electric vehicles has great potential for development. Electric vehicles initiate charging requests, and charging stations charge authorized electric vehicles. Fog computing improves the efficiency of request processing. However, open channels can be vulnerable to various attacks by a malicious adversary. Mutual authentication schemes allow users and charging stations to confirm each other. Therefore, numerous authentication and key agreement schemes have been proposed. In 2021, Babu et al. proposed an authentication scheme based on fog servers. Unfortunately, we found that their scheme can not resist FS impersonation attack and replay attack. Hence, we propose an authentication scheme between electric vehicles and fog servers to resolve the security weakness. Our scheme uses lightweight hash functions and XOR operations, which is more suitable for resource‐constrained electric vehicles. We proved our scheme can achieve mutual authentication by using BAN logic, and analyzed that our scheme can resist impersonation, replay, and known session key attacks, ensuring anonymity and untraceability. We finally compare computation cost and communication cost of our scheme with the existing schemes. The result shows that our scheme performs better than others overall. Therefore, our scheme is secure and suitable for dynamic charging systems.
Dissolution of Large‐Sized Primary Carbides in 6Cr13 Continuous Casting Slabs during High‐Temperature Homogenization
Authors: Zhu Shuang , Li Jing , Pan Jixiang , Wei Haixia , Li Shouhui
Published: January 2024

The morphology of carbides, the distribution of alloying elements, and the dissolution of primary carbides in 6Cr13 continuous casting slabs during the high‐temperature homogenization process are studied herein. The results show that severe segregation of alloying elements exists at the center of the cast slabs, accompanied by large, interconnected primary carbides in the form of a network. Large‐sized reticulated primary carbides are difficult to completely dissolve and eliminate during homogenization treatments. Large‐sized primary carbides will dissolve along the contours and the joints between the carbides when the temperature of high‐temperature homogenization does not exceed 1250 °C and the time does not exceed 1 h. The carbides that had broken off will precipitate again along the original contour in the form of large‐sized brain‐like carbides beyond this temperature and time. In situ observation of the high‐temperature homogenization process reveals that when the slab is heated to 1200 °C, the local liquid phase starts to be generated around the carbide. Cr atoms diffuse into the matrix through the liquid–matrix interface; it will accelerate the high‐temperature homogenization process and improve the segregation of alloying elements around carbides.
Discrete Time Limited Gramians Model Order Curtailment for Unstable Second Orderly‐Structured Systems
Authors: Ali Sadaqat , Haider Shafiq , Mokhtar Rosmiwati Mohd. , Hadi Hussain , Huda Aamina Bintul
Published: January 2024

In this manuscript, sundry model order Curtailment (MOC) techniques for discrete time frequency limited applications of unstable second orderly‐structured systems (SOSSs) are suggested. Discrete‐time limited frequency gramians (DLFGs) for generalized SOSSs and limited frequency discrete time algebraic Lyapunov equations (LFDALEs) are developed. For unstable SOSS, LFDALEs are unsolvable and the Curtailment process is halted. First technique fragments discrete time unstable SOSS into stable and unstable snippets and balanced truncation process is solicited to stable fragment. The acquired reduced order model (ROM) for stable snippet is added with unstable one. Second order structure in ROM gets lost as well as added unstable dynamics degrade the ROM performance using this approach. Then, two structure retaining limited frequency second order balanced truncation (SOBT) techniques for unstable SOSSs are suggested. Bernoulli feedback stabilization stratagem is adopted and then DLFGs are found for stabilized system from LFDALEs. Furthermore, gramians are fragmented in to position and velocity snippets which give rise to structure retention in ROM. Finally, ROM in desired frequency hiatus is gleaned by solicitation of SOBT. © 2024 Institute of Electrical Engineer of Japan and Wiley Periodicals LLC.
Acknowledgements for ‘Venous thromboembolism in Klinefelter syndrome: a clot in the knowledge?’
Authors: Birch Sophie
Published: January 2024

The author of the article on Klinefelter syndrome (Nov/Dec 2023;14(6):23–6) wishes to acknowledge Tet Yap, Beverley Hunt, Paul Carroll and the Klinefelter Multi‐Disciplinary Team at Guy's and St Thomas' Hospital, which led the original research work in thromboembolism in the UK Klinefelter population from which the content is based.
Time to focus on the role of the pelvic floor in vaginal delivery
Authors: Youssef A. , Nedu B. , Dapoto F. , Brunelli E.
Published: January 2024

Linked article: This Correspondence comments on Preuss et al. Click here to view the article.
Dynamics of Privacy at Sea: An Introduction to Privacy Studies in Maritime History
Authors: Klein Käfer Natacha
Published: January 2024

This chapter introduces the Privacy at Sea volume, demonstrating the contributions of privacy studies in researching early modern and maritime history. It provides a more dynamic understanding of privacy in the challenging environment of life at sea, focusing on the many strategies that enable people a certain level of negotiation and regulation of how information, bodies, behaviours, and accounts could be accessed or restricted.
Pockets of Privacy in the Maritime World: An Epilogue
Authors: Bruun Mette Birkedal , Klein Käfer Natacha
Published: January 2024

This chapter concludes the Privacy at Sea volume, providing a careful overview of the contributions of maritime history to the field of historical privacy studies as expressed in the previous chapters. By focusing on the dynamics of contraction and expansion, this analysis demonstrates how notions of privacy were adapted from the shore to the ships, showing how strategies of privacy enabled people at sea to navigate conflict and consensus, confinement and mobility, surveillance and support.
Natural Parks and Sustainable Development: A Theoretical Study
Authors: Silvestri Francesco
Published: January 2024

We analyse the role of Natural parks in Europe and Italy in mediating among diverging interests about the use of natural resources. Using standard economic concepts, we highlight that natural parks provide different types of goods and act as place-based institutions for sustainable development.
Routes to Ocean Sustainability and Blue Prosperity in a Changing World: Guiding Principles and Open Challenges
Authors: Solidoro Cosimo , Libralato Simone , Canu Donata Melaku
Published: January 2024

In December 2017, the United Nation decided to proclaim the United Nations Decade of Ocean Science for Sustainable Development for the 10-year period beginning on 1 January 2021.
Computations for Sustainability
Authors: Salavatidezfouli Sajad , Nikishova Anna , Torlo Davide , Teruzzi Martina , Rozza Gianluigi
Published: January 2024

Parallel to the need for new technologies and renewable energy resources to address sustainability, the emerging field of Artificial Intelligence (AI) has experienced continuous high-speed growth in the application of its capabilities of modelling, managing, processing, and making sense of data in the entire areas related to the production and management of energy. Moreover, the current trend indicates that the energy supply and management process will eventually be controlled by autonomous smart systems that optimize energy distribution operations based on integrative data-driven Machine Learning (ML) techniques or other types of computational methods.
Sustainability in the Energy System and in the Industrial System
Authors: Cobal Marina , Lughi Vanni
Published: January 2024

With the term “industrial system”, one refers to the set of processes, technologies, and infrastructure used to produce goods and services in a society. This includes the factories, machinery, and all the equipment used to manufacture products, as well as the transportation and distribution systems that deliver the products to customers.
Framing Sustainability
Authors: Carrosio Giovanni
Published: January 2024

Since the promulgation of the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development, adopted by the member states of the United Nations in 2015, the concept of sustainability has become pervasive in society.
Supplementary Measures and Appropriate Safeguards for International Transfers of Health Data After Schrems II
Authors: Corrales Compagnucci Marcelo , Fenwick Mark , Aboy Mateo , Minssen Timo
Published: January 2024

In July 2020, the Court of Justiceof the European Union (CJEU) in Data Protection Commissioner v Facebook Ireland Limited, Maximillian Schrems (“Schrems II”) invalidated the EU-US Privacy Shield adequacy decision but found that Standard Contracting Clauses (SCCs) are a valid mechanism to enable GDPR-compliant transfers of personal data from the EU to jurisdictions outside the EU/EEA, as long as various unspecified “supplementary measures” are in place to compensate for any gaps in data protection arising from the third country law or practices. The effect of this decision has been to place regulators, scholars, and data protection professionals under greater pressure to identify and explain these “supplementary measures” to facilitate cross-border transfers of personal data. This chapter critically examines the current framework for cross-border transfers after Schrems II, including the new SCCs adopted by the European Commission, as well as the current European Data Protection Board (EDBP) guidance on “supplementary measures.” We argue that the so-called “supplementary measures” are not “supplementary” and that the CJEU’s characterization of such measures as “supplementary” undermines the original clarity of GDPR with regards to the required standards for the security of processing as well as the available mechanisms for cross-border transfers of personal data. We conclude that despite the legal uncertainty introduced by the CJEU several post-Schrem II developments have been helpful to increase awareness and improve the overall safeguards associated with cross-border transfers of personal data. These include the new SCCs and an increased understanding of the capabilities and limitations of the technical and organizational measures, including encryption, pseudonymization, and multi-party processing. Technical solutions such as multiparty homomorphic encryption (HE) that combine these three technical measures while still allowing for the possibility to query and analyze encrypted data without decrypting it has significant potential to provide effective security measures that facilitate cross-border transfers of personal data in high-risk settings.
Bounding the QCD Equation of State with the Lattice
Authors: Moore Guy D. , Gorda Tyler
Published: January 2024

Abstract

The equation of state of QCD matter at high densities is relevant for neutron star structure and for neutron star mergers and has been a focus of recent work. We show how lattice QCD simulations, free of sign problems, can provide an upper bound on the pressure as a function of quark chemical potentials. We show that at large chemical potentials this bound should become quite sharp; the difference between the upper bound on the pressure PPQ and the true pressure P is of order PPQ− P = $$ \mathcal{O} $$
O
($$ {\alpha}_{\textrm{s}}^3 $$

α
s
3

P). The corrections arise from a single Feynman diagram; its calculation would render remaining corrections $$ \mathcal{O} $$
O
($$ {\alpha}_{\textrm{s}}^4 $$

α
s
4

P).
A note on the Hamiltonian structure of transgression forms
Authors: Pais Pablo , Salgado-Rebolledo Patricio , Vera Aldo
Published: January 2024

Abstract

By incorporating two gauge connections, transgression forms provide a generalization of Chern-Simons actions that are genuinely gauge-invariant on bounded manifolds. In this work, we show that, when defined on a manifold with a boundary, the Hamiltonian formulation of a transgression field theory can be consistently carried out without the need to implement regularizing boundary terms at the level of first-class constraints. By considering boundary variations of the relevant functionals in the Poisson brackets, the surface integral in the very definition of a transgression action can be translated into boundary contributions in the generators of gauge transformations and diffeomorphisms. This prescription systematically leads to the corresponding surface charges of the theory, reducing to the general expression for conserved charges in (higher-dimensional) Chern-Simons theories when one of the gauge connections in the transgression form is set to zero.
A new fractional integration approach based on neural network nonlinearity with an application to testing unemployment hysteresis
Authors: Furuoka Fumitaka , Gil-Alana Luis A. , Yaya OlaOluwa S. , Aruchunan Elayaraja , Ogbonna Ahamuefula E.
Published: January 2024

This paper proposes a nonlinear fractional unit root approach which is known as the autoregressive neural network–fractional integration (ARNN–FI) test. This new fractional integration test is based on a new multilayer perceptron of a neural network process, proposed in Yaya et al. (Oxf Bull Econ Stat 83(4):960–981, 2021). The asymptotic theory and the properties of the proposed test are given. By setting up a Monte Carlo simulation experiment, the simulation results reveal that as the number of observations increases, size and power distortions would disappear in the test. The empirical application based on this new test reveals that the unemployment rates of three European countries are neither stationary nor mean-reverting in line with the hysteresis hypothesis.
Using cluster analysis for grouping partial autosomal haplotypes derived from single sperm STR profiling
Authors: Anslinger Katja , Bayer Birgit , Schick Sylvia , Fimmers Rolf
Published: January 2024

Background and objective

The use of single cell STR profiling for mixture deconvolution is increasingly being discussed in forensics; however, studies regarding STR profiling of single sperm are relatively rare. Considering that each sperm cell exclusively contains a haploid genome, STR profiling as well as grouping profiles from each single contributor to derive consensus profiles seems to be difficult. Thus, so far, the information obtained from gonosomal markers partially combined with previously performed whole genome amplification was used. For this study, we wanted to determine the quality of individual sperm analysis using our routine workflow and, assuming the results provided sufficient profiles, to establish means to cluster them.

Material and methods

In terms of a feasibility study, STR profiles of single sperm cells were examined using different multiplex kits and amplification conditions. Based on this database, a cluster analysis for grouping partial haploid autosomal profiles was successfully developed. Simulations were carried out to increase the database. Furthermore, the correlation between successful cluster analysis and the number of sperm, the quality of the profiles obtained and the number of contributors was investigated.

Results and conclusion

From a pool of partial haploid profiles of 2–5 individuals, generally reliable grouping can be obtained by cluster analysis and diploid profiles can be derived for each contributor. When examining 40 sperm per contributor, in 92.2% (2 person mixture) and 71.6% (5 person mixture) complete and correct profiles could be deconvoluted; however, the fewer sperm per person are available for analysis, the more the completeness of the haploid profile affects the quality of the cluster analysis and therefore the correctness of the deconvoluted profile.