bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A scoping review assessing the usability of digital health technologies targeting people with multiple sclerosis
Authors: Tea Fiona , Groh Adam M. R. , Lacey Colleen , Fakolade Afolasade
Published: June 2024

Digital health technologies (DHTs) have become progressively more integrated into the healthcare of people with multiple sclerosis (MS). To ensure that DHTs meet end-users’ needs, it is essential to assess their usability. The objective of this study was to determine how DHTs targeting people with MS incorporate usability characteristics into their design and/or evaluation. We conducted a scoping review of DHT studies in MS published from 2010 to the present using PubMed, Web of Science, OVID Medline, CINAHL, Embase, and medRxiv. Covidence was used to facilitate the review. We included articles that focused on people with MS and/or their caregivers, studied DHTs (including mhealth, telehealth, and wearables), and employed quantitative, qualitative, or mixed methods designs. Thirty-two studies that assessed usability were included, which represents a minority of studies (26%) that assessed DHTs in MS. The most common DHT was mobile applications (n = 23, 70%). Overall, studies were highly heterogeneous with respect to what usability principles were considered and how usability was assessed. These findings suggest that there is a major gap in the application of standardized usability assessments to DHTs in MS. Improvements in the standardization of usability assessments will have implications for the future of digital health care for people with MS.
4H silicon carbide bulk acoustic wave gyroscope with ultra-high Q-factor for on-chip inertial navigation
Authors: Liu Zhenming , Long Yaoyao , Wehner Charlotte , Wen Haoran , Ayazi Farrokh
Published: June 2024

Inertial navigation on a chip has long been constrained by the noise and stability issues of micromechanical Coriolis gyroscopes, as silicon, the dominant material for microelectromechanical system devices, has reached the physical limits of its material properties. To address these challenges, this study explores silicon carbide, specifically its monocrystalline 4H polytype, as a substrate to improve gyroscope performance due to its low phonon Akhiezer dissipation and its isotropic hexagonal crystal lattice. We report on low-noise electrostatic acoustic resonant gyroscopes with mechanical quality factors exceeding several millions, fabricated on bonded 4H silicon carbide-on-insulator wafers. These gyroscopes operate using megahertz frequency bulk acoustic wave modes for large open-loop bandwidth and are tuned electrostatically using capacitive transducers created by wafer-level deep reactive ion etching. Experimental results show these gyroscopes achieve superior performance under various conditions and demonstrate higher quality factors at increased temperatures, enabling enhanced performance in an ovenized or high-temperature stabilized configuration.
Urchin-like CoP3/Cu3P heterostructured nanorods supported on a 3D porous copper foam for high-performance non-enzymatic electrochemical dopamine sensors
Authors: Doan Thi Luu Luyen , Tran Minh Xuan , Nguyen Dang Le Tri , Nguyen Dinh Chuong
Published: June 2024

In this study, we developed a high-performance non-enzymatic electrochemical sensor based on urchin-like CoP3/Cu3P heterostructured nanorods supported on a three-dimensional porous copper foam, namely, CoP3/Cu3P NRs/CF, for the detection of dopamine.
Optical control of nanobody-mediated protein activity modulation with a photocleavable fluorescent protein
Authors: Endo Mizuki , Tomizawa Saki , Kuang Qiaoyue , Ozawa Takeaki
Published: June 2024

By fusing the photocleavable protein PhoCl with the N-terminus of the nanobody, we demonstrated light-dependent recovery of the antigen-binding ability, which was monitored by fluorescence changes, and the following inhibition of β2AR activity.
Cu12-cluster-based metal–organic framework as a metastable intermediate in the formation of a layered copper phosphonate
Authors: Teng Qian , Gao Ran , Bao Song-Song , Zheng Li-Min
Published: June 2024

The solvothermal reaction of CuSO4·5H2O and a chiral R-pempH2 ligand (molar ratio 6 : 1) first forms a metastable intermediate [Cu24(OH)20(R-pempH)8(SO4)10·(H2O)10.5]·35H2O (1), then a stable phase [Cu2(OH)(R-pempH)(SO4)(H2O)]·H2O (2).
Silver/gold nanoalloy implant coatings with antibiofilm activity via pH-triggered silver ion release
Authors: Geissel Felix J. , Platania Varvara , Tsikourkitoudi Vasiliki , Larsson Justina Venckute , Thersleff Thomas , Chatzinikolaidou Maria , Sotiriou Georgios A.
Published: June 2024

AgAu nanoalloy particles deposited on Ti substrates release antimicrobial Ag+ ions in the presence of an acidic biofilm microenvironment, providing an on-demand triggered antibiofilm activity.
Electrode switch—an efficient induced approach for self-activation of an electrode toward water splitting
Authors: Kong Jin , Wang Zhihong , Liu Chaoyue , Wang Shuo , Guo Yingshuang , Chen Honglei , Wang Jiepeng , Lü Zhe
Published: June 2024

This work breaks through the traditional concept and provides a novel electrode switch (ES) method to improve the stability of the alkaline electrolyzer.
Multiresponsive luminescent sensing behaviour of a tetraimidazole ligand and its 3D Cd(ii) metal–organic frameworks
Authors: Wu Ye-Feng , Cheng Jia-Jun , Jiang Tao , Ma Yu-Chen , Kou Jia-Lei , Cheng Guo-Feng , Hu Xiu-Li , Tang Xiao-Yan , Ma Yun-Sheng , Yin Wen-Yu , Cheng Hong-Jian
Published: June 2024

Reactions of a tetraimidazole ligand with Cd(NO3)2 and dicarboxylate afforded two MOFs. The ligand or its MOFs exhibited multiresponsive luminescent sensing.
Cross-over from pyrene to acene optical and electronic properties: a theoretical investigation of a series of pyrene derivatives fused with N-, S, and O-containing heterocycles
Authors: Araji Hachem , Nakhoul Maria , Challita Elio , Barmo Nour , Wex Brigitte
Published: June 2024

Five alkylated derivatives of pyrene laterally extended by heteroaromatic or phenyl groups were explored by DFT and TD-DFT for spectroscopic, electronic and charge transfer properties and contrasted to nascent pyrene, alkylated pyrene and tetracene.
Adsorption-driven reverse osmosis separation of ethanol/water using zeolite nanosheets
Authors: Wu Yen-Yung , Lin Li-Chiang
Published: June 2024

This study demonstrates the great potential of zeolite nanosheets as reverse osmosis membranes in extracting nearly anhydrous ethanol from its aqueous solution.
Characterisation of the ground X+ 2ΠΩ and first excited A+ 2Σ+ electronic states of MgO+ by high-resolution photoelectron spectroscopy
Authors: Kreis C. , Schmitz J. R. , Merkt F.
Published: June 2024

Despite the importance of MgO+ for understanding the electronic structure and chemical bonds in alkaline-earth metal oxides and its potential astrophysical relevance, hardly any spectroscopic information is available on this molecular cation.
Mn2C MXene functionalized by oxygen is a semiconducting antiferromagnet and an efficient visible light absorber
Authors: Kalmár Jiří , Karlický František
Published: June 2024

Systematic investigations reveal O-terminated Mn2C MXene has an antiferromagnetic ground state, a 2.1 eV gap, strongly bound exciton (1.1 eV), and efficient visible/near-UV absorption, highlighting its potential as a two-dimensional semiconductor.
One-pot synthesis of iron-doped ceria catalysts for tandem carbon dioxide hydrogenation
Authors: Gili Albert , Bekheet Maged F. , Thimm Franziska , Bischoff Benjamin , Geske Michael , Konrad Martin , Praetz Sebastian , Schlesiger Christopher , Selve Sören , Gurlo Aleksander , Rosowski Frank , Schomäcker Reinhard
Published: June 2024

Solid solutions of Fe-doped ceria have been synthesized, characterized and applied as catalysts for tandem carbon dioxide hydrogenation.
Increasing electrochemical chlorine selectivity over oxygen selectivity through the optimal weakening of oxygen bonds in transition metal-doped RuO2
Authors: Saha Sulay , Kishor Koshal , Pala Raj Ganesh S.
Published: June 2024

Combined DFT-based computational and experimental screening for first-row transition metal dopants in RuO2 indicates that Cu-doping yields the maximum chlorine evolution reaction selectivity during oxidation of an acidic chlorinated medium.
Synergistically optimizing the electrocatalytic performance of IrO2 with double doping and bi-directional strains for acidic oxygen evolution reaction
Authors: Wu Xiao , Han Weiwei , Hao Shaoyun , He Yi , Lei Lecheng , Zhang Xingwang
Published: June 2024

A novel core–shell Tm0.1Sb0.2Ir0.7Ox@TB-IrOx with bi-directional strains was developed, which showed impressive activity and stability toward acidic OER.
Thienothiophene-based covalent organic frameworks for visible light-triggered oxidation of sulfides to sulfoxides
Authors: Zhang Keke , Xiong Kanghui , Huang Fengwei , Dong Xiaoyun , Zeng Bing , Lang Xianjun
Published: June 2024

The TT-TAPT-COF photocatalyst efficiently effectuates the blue light-triggered oxidation of organic sulfides to sulfoxides with molecular oxygen.
A Pt nanoenzyme- and BODIPY-loaded nanoscale covalent organic framework for relieving intratumoural hypoxia to enhance photodynamic therapy
Authors: Zhang Kai-Xuan , Wang Bo , Li Wen-Yan , Song Yang , Song Tian , Li Yan-An , Dong Yu-Bin
Published: June 2024

A covalent organic framework-based multifunctional nanomedicine, Pt@COF-BDP, can convert H2O2 to O2 and promote singlet oxygen production, thereby enhancing photodynamic therapy.
Emerging trends in the development and applications of triazine-based covalent organic polymers: a comprehensive review
Authors: Aggarwal Simran , Awasthi Satish Kumar
Published: June 2024

The review article highlights the advancements in the synthesis and applications of triazine-based covalent organic polymers in various domains.
A sustainable method for oxidizing phenanthrene in tropical soil using natural iron as a catalyst in a slurry phase reactor with persulfate assistance
Authors: Qutob Mohammad , Rafatullah Mohd , Muhammad Syahidah Akmal , Siddiqui Masoom Raza , Alam Mahboob
Published: June 2024

Active radicals play a major role in the oxidation process and SO4˙− is more dominant than O2˙−, while HO˙ plays a minor role.
OXF: a new natural reference material for use in LA-ICP-MS U–Pb columbite–tantalite geochronology
Authors: Qing Liyuan , Luo Tao , Hu Zhaochu , Li Yang , Tu Jiarun , Zhang Liangliang , Zhang Wen , Zong Keqing
Published: June 2024

A new columbite–tantalite reference material (OXF) is proposed for LA-ICP-MS U–Pb geochronology analysis.
Microfluidic fabrication of monodisperse microcapsules with gas cores
Authors: Yang Shi-Hao , Song Wan-Lu , Fan Lin-Ling , Deng Chuan-Fu , Xie Rui , Wang Wei , Liu Zhuang , Pan Da-Wei , Ju Xiao-Jie , Chu Liang-Yin
Published: June 2024

A novel strategy is developed based on droplet microfluidics and interfacial polymerization for efficient and continuous fabrication of monodisperse gas-core microcapsules with controllable sizes and excellent ultrasound-induced burst performances.
Coherent X-ray imaging of stochastic dynamics
Authors: Sarkar Arnab , Johnson Allan S.
Published: June 2024

Fast nanoscale fluctuations blur out in most imaging methods. A new approach, CIDI, uses the visibility of interferometric fringes to separate the stochastic and deterministic contributions to a diffraction patterns in coherent X-ray imaging.
NiII-containing l-glutamic acid cross-linked chitosan anchored on Fe3O4/f-MWCNT: a sustainable catalyst for the green reduction and one-pot two-step reductive Schotten–Baumann-type acetylation of nitroarenes
Authors: Mousavi Hossein , Zeynizadeh Behzad , Hasanpour Galehban Morteza
Published: June 2024

In this research, new catalytic applications of the Fe3O4/f-MWCNT-CS-Glu/NiII nanocomposite have been introduced for the efficient reduction and one-pot two-step reductive Schotten–Baumann-type acetylation of nitroarenes in water.
Design of novel hierarchical cage active particles and zeolite for the direct conversion of syngas to gasoline fuel
Authors: Zhang Yulan , Lin Xizhu
Published: June 2024

Physical mixing of SiO2-stabilized novel hierarchical cage particles with zeolites result in hybrid catalysts that provide a C5+ hydrocarbon content of 99.3% in gasoline fuels.
Facile fabrication of three-dimensional NiCo2O4 hierarchical nanosheet-wire structure for high-performance supercapacitors
Authors: Huang Junyan , Zhou Jinjie , Liu Lijun , Zheng Yaxi , Wang Yin , Chen Xing
Published: June 2024

The NiCo2O4 hierarchical nanosheet-wire structure can provide high contact area, fast electron/ion transfer, and abundant electroactive sites.
Excitation wavelength-dependent tunable color Te4+-doped Cs2ZrCl6 vacancy-ordered perovskites for optical anti-counterfeiting
Authors: Qi Yu , Xin Chengyue , Zhang Wenjun , Li Zhongfa , Chen Zihan , Duan Zhongyu
Published: June 2024

Te4+-doped Cs2ZrCl6 vacancy-ordered perovskites with excitation wavelength-dependent tunable color have been synthesized, with two luminescent centres originating from the Te4+ and the STE of the Cs2ZrCl6 itself, respectively.
Sodium-ion battery using a NASICON-type Na3V2(PO4)3 cathode: quantification of diffusive and capacitive Na+ charge storage
Authors: Ragul Sivasubramaniam , Prabakaran Annadoure , Sujithkrishnan Elayaperumal , Kannadasan Kalidoss , Elumalai Perumal
Published: June 2024

In this present work, NASICON-type Na3V2(PO4)3 cathode was synthesized by sol-gel and solid-state routes for sodium-ion battery. The diffusive and capacitive Na+ charge storage modes at peak and non-peak potential regions were quantified.
Biosynthesis, biological activities, and structure–activity relationships of decalin-containing tetramic acid derivatives isolated from fungi
Authors: Kim Hyun Woo , Lee Jin Woo , Shim Sang Hee
Published: June 2024

Decalin-containing tetramic acid derivatives, especially 3-decalinoyltetramic acids (3-DTAs), are commonly found as fungal secondary metabolites.
4-Trifluoromethoxy proline: synthesis of stereoisomers and lipophilicity study
Authors: Logvinenko Ivan G. , Sadkova Iryna V. , Tolmachova Nataliya A. , Shishkina Svitlana V. , Daniliuc Constantin G. , Haufe Günter , Kondratov Ivan S.
Published: June 2024

All four stereoisomers of 4-CF3O-proline were synthesized on a gram scale, and their physical–chemical properties were studied.
Chemical and chemoenzymatic syntheses of sialyl Lewisa tetrasaccharide antigen
Authors: Jiang Yuanyuan , Duan Shichao , Li Jiaming , Zhao Yanli , Yang Jinsong
Published: June 2024

Sialyl Lewisa (sLea), also known as cancer antigen 19-9, is a tumor-associated carbohydrate antigen. In this paper, chemical and chemoenzymatic syntheses of sLea tetrasaccharide antigen are reported.
One-step synthesis of Cu-doped Pb10(PO4)6Cl2 apatite: a wide-gap semiconductor
Authors: Yang Wuzhang , Pang Zhihong , Ren Zhi
Published: June 2024

Cu-doped Pb10(PO4)6Cl2 apatites were synthesized by a one-step method and found to be paramagnetic wide-gap semiconductors without any phase transition between 400 and 1.8 K.
A Cu(ii) pseudopeptide complex: a surrogate to a formal Cu(iii) species in water and an inhibitor of cancer cell proliferation
Authors: Eerlapally Raju , Vechalapu Sai Kumari , Duraisamy Santosh , Hareendran Divya Lakshmi , Debnath Jayashrita , Allimuthu Dharmaraja , Draksharapu Apparao
Published: June 2024

We have investigated the formation of a formal (L)Cu(iii) species in H2O at 25 °C. The hydrogen bonding interaction of H2O with the ligand bound to the Cu centre makes it stable in H2O. The Cu complex enhanced the cellular ROS and promoted mitochondrial functional impairment in cancer cells.
Stereoselective strain-release Ferrier rearrangement: the dual role of catalysts
Authors: Zhang Huajun , Guo Aoxin , Ding Han , Xu Yuan , Zhang Yuhan , Yang Dan , Liu Xue-Wei
Published: June 2024

ACu(OTf)2/Fe(OTf)3-promoted facile and stereoselective synthesis of 2,3-unsaturated glycosides through Ferrier rearrangement of rationally designed glycals with C3-CCBz. The dual roles of the metal catalysts in the reaction are explored with DFT.
Palladium-catalyzed epoxidation of olefins using electrophiles as oxidizing agents
Authors: Yao Biao , Zhang Lujun , Chen Yupeng , Zhang Liren , Wu Wanqing , Jiang Huanfeng
Published: June 2024

The development of palladium-catalysed olefin epoxidation reactions using electrophilic reagents as oxidants: modular synthesis of oxazolines. The efficient synthesis of esters, alcohols and halogen-containing products was achieved.
Facile synthesis of alkylphosphonates from 4-alkyl-1,4-dihydropyridines via photoinduced formal deformylative phosphonylation
Authors: Zhang Huan , Cui Zhonghe , Wang Jian , Zhu Lin , Li Chaozhong
Published: June 2024

A photoinduced formal deformylative phosphonylation utilizing easily available aldehydes was established, providing a practical synthetic route to alkylphosphonates from aliphatic aldehydes.
Effect of chondroitin sulfate modified polyethyleneimine on mediating oligodeoxynucleotide YW002 in the treatment of periodontitis
Authors: Qu Xingyuan , Zhang Qian , Zhang Chuang , Sun Jichao , Du Siyu , Liang Chen , Chen Yabing , Zheng Yi , Wang Lei
Published: June 2024

In a previous study, we found that oligodeoxynucleotide (ODN) YW002 could downregulate the synthesis of nitric oxide in RAW 264.7 cells, laying the experimental foundation for the subsequent application of ODN YW002 in periodontitis.
Probing the mechanism of guest–framework bonding interactions through a first-principles study on the structural and electronic properties of type-II clathrate AxSi136 (A = Na, K, Rb; 0 ≤ x ≤ 24) under pressure
Authors: Xue Dong , Deng Yanbin , Myles Charles W.
Published: June 2024

The ionic bonding nature can be detected for Na@Si28 case. Somewhat covalent bonding formation due to the resultant competition between the multiatomic repulsive interaction and Coulomb attractive force is observed for Na@Si20 case.
Facile fabrication of B-rGO/ZnFe2O4 p–n heterojunction-based S-scheme exciton engineering for photocatalytic Cr(vi) reduction: kinetics, influencing parameters and detailed mechanism
Authors: Das Kundan Kumar , Mohanty Upali Aparajita , Paramanik Lekha , Sahoo Dipti Prava , Parida Kulamani
Published: June 2024

The scheme represents the photocatalytic Cr (VI) reduction by 2BrZn p-n based S-scheme heterojunction photocatalyst.
Photophysical properties of Pt(ii) complexes based on the benzoquinoline (bzq) ligand with OLED implication: a theoretical study
Authors: Moradpour Batool , Omidyan Reza
Published: June 2024

The photophysical properties of eight Pt(ii) complexes were investigated using high-level DFT and TD-DFT models, revealing their potential applications in OLED devices.
Effect of structure on excited-state intramolecular proton transfer-based sensors for phosphonofluoridate G-series nerve agent vapour detection
Authors: Fan Shengqiang , Burn Paul L. , Gentle Ian R. , Shaw Paul E.
Published: June 2024

Excited-state intramolecular proton transfer emitters have emission that is significantly red shifted relative to the absorption spectra, which enables the sensitive detection of extant hydrogen fluoride found in G-series nerve agents.
A theory of hydrogel mechanics that couples swelling and external flow
Authors: Xu Zelai , Yue Pengtao , Feng James J.
Published: June 2024

A gel cylinder swells in a stream of warm fluid. The white arrows inside the cylinder depicts the solvent penetration into the gel, as its surface swells beyond the initial position (cyan dashed line).
Revisiting the strain-induced softening behaviour in hydrogels
Authors: Duarte L. K. R. , Rizzi L. G.
Published: June 2024

It is demonstrated that rupture of the network is not necessary for hydrogels to exhibit strain-induced softening behaviour at intermediate deformations. Instead, it can be also attributed to effective polymer–solvent interactions.
Sol–gel-derived nanostructured electrocatalysts for oxygen evolution reaction: a review
Authors: De Aditi , Kim Min Seo , Adhikari Arindam , Patel Rajkumar , Kundu Subrata
Published: June 2024

This review, for the first time, provides concise insights into the synthetic methods, material characterization, and recent strategies for boosting the OER activity of various sol–gel-derived composites paving the way for subsequent research.
Impact of the rhenium substitution on the oxygen evolution reaction of spinel CoFe2O4
Authors: Zheng Yuruo , Hussain Ghulam , Zheng Changcheng , Zhou Xiaoqi , Zhang Man , Xie Suirong , Yin Qianhe , Li Shuyi , Shanta Batool , Wang Xiawa
Published: June 2024

Structure engineering is a powerful tool for tuning various properties and making CoFe2O4 (CFO) a prime candidate for electrocatalyst applications, especially in improving the oxygen evolution reaction (OER) performance.
Triazinyl-graphdiyne induces electron directional migration to drive charge separation of CdS for photocatalytic hydrogen evolution
Authors: Xiao Qian , Fan Linlin , Liu Yafeng , Guo Xin , Jin Zhiliang
Published: June 2024

This work provides new insights for efficient H2 production by offering adsorption and reduction active sites. The study indicates that TA-GDY selectively triggers electron migration through the interaction between nitrogen atoms and acetylene bonds.
A highly salt concentrated ethylene carbonate-based self-standing copolymer electrolyte for solid-state lithium metal batteries
Authors: Soontornnon Nantapat , Kimura Kento , Tominaga Yoichi
Published: June 2024

The synthetic CP-based solid electrolyte with high salt concentration, which is obtained as a mechanically stable self-standing membrane with good ionic conductivity, can function in Li//LFP cells for as long as 400 cycles.
Highly sensitive detection of Salmonella typhimurium via gold and magnetic nanoparticle-mediated sandwich hybridization coupled with ICP-MS
Authors: Zhou Yujie , Tang Zhihui , Li Lei , Chen Yuzuo , Xu Yuanyuan , Liu Renjie , Zhang Yanrong , Liu Xiaoyan , Yang Wenjuan , Wang Baoning , Zhang Jieyu , Jiang Qing , Wang Yunbing
Published: June 2024

Foodborne pathogens including Salmonella typhimurium cause millions of illnesses annually. A novel detection method using ICP-MS with magnetic and gold nanoparticles for Salmonella typhimurium shows high specificity and sensitivity.
CAG peptide functionalized graphene quantum dots-cationic polymer composite gene carriers
Authors: Duo Xinghong , Xu Qirong , Li Chen , Meng Xiangyan , Feng Yakai
Published: June 2024

In this study, an efficient and safe gene vector was constructed by PEI, GQDs and CAG peptide. The vector has excellent gene binding and delivery capabilities and can deliver the pZNF580 into HUVECs.
Antimicrobial peptide immobilization on catechol-functionalized PCL/alginate wet-spun fibers to combat surgical site infection
Authors: Hasan Aneem Taufiq , Sarker Mridul , Wong Siew Yee , Lim Sierin , Li Xu , Rashed Asif , Chakravarty Saumitra , Arafat M. Tarik
Published: June 2024

This study proposes a novel wet-spinning method to fabricate fibers to combat surgical site infection using antimicrobial peptides (AMPs).
A flexible piezoresistive pressure sensor based on a perovskite MAPbBr3 nanocrystal-embedded polymer composite
Authors: Zhuang Yuyan , Li Ruiqi , Jiao Mingzhi , He Xinjian , Gu Xiuquan , Huang Sheng
Published: June 2024

The three-dimensional porous structure of the material is adjusted by adding perovskites, and a flexible pressure sensor is constructed in a “sandwich” structure to detect human facial expression, pulse, breathing, and joint movement.
Sesame ball-like PTT nanoplatforms with fluorescence-background-free temperature sensing
Authors: Bao Biying , Song Jia , Yang Jian , Wang Shuai , Zhu Hancheng , Yan Duanting , Liu Chunguang , Xu Changshan , Liu Yuxue
Published: June 2024

Sesame ball-like ZGGO:Cr,Hf–Ag2S composite nanoplatforms with broad-spectrum bactericidal performance can be used as afterglow ratio nanothermometers to realize real-time temperature monitoring during therapy processes.
Optical properties of Ga2O3 thin films grown by atomic layer deposition using GaI3 and O3 as precursors
Authors: Aarik Lauri , Mändar Hugo , Kasikov Aarne , Tarre Aivar , Aarik Jaan
Published: June 2024

Absorption spectra, bandgap energies, refractive indices, and antireflection properties of atomic-layer-deposited amorphous Ga2O3, κ/ε-Ga2O3, and α-Ga2O3 films were Investigated.
Understanding moisture stability and degradation mechanisms of 2D hybrid perovskites: insights from ab initio molecular dynamics simulations
Authors: Mahal Eti , Manna Surya Sekhar , Das Sandeep , Pathak Biswarup
Published: June 2024

Bulky organic cation terminated surfaces are the most stable in the presence of water owing to the hydrophobicity of organic cations, whereas iodine terminated surfaces are prone to decomposition in contact with water molecules.
Anomaly‐detection‐based learning for real‐time data processing in non‐intrusive load monitoring
Authors: Chen Zhebin , Dong Zhao Yang , Xu Yan
Published: June 2024

A power system can be regarded as a cyber‐physical system with physical power networks and a cyber system based on increasing engagement with information communication technologies for smart grid functionalities for more efficient operations and control. Non‐intrusive load monitoring (NILM), an emerging smart‐grid technology, can be used to better understand the electricity usage profile and composition of smart meters using advanced data analysis algorithms. Although NILM enables various smart grid services, wider applications of NILM require addressing the challenges regarding cyber security and data privacy risks. Anomaly detection in appliance data is one of the most effective measures against potential cyber intrusions from a data perspective. This study proposes a framework of anomaly detection‐based learning algorithms to identify the anomalous periods of electricity loading data, which may be a subject for potential cyber‐attacks. Comparison studies with the hidden Markov model are performed to validate the proposed approaches. The simulation results show that these anomaly detection‐based learning algorithms work well and can precisely determine anomalous loading periods. Moreover, these trained models perform well on the testing dataset without prior knowledge of the data, providing the possibility of the real‐time assessment of power‐ loading states. The proposed framework can also be used to develop protective measures to ensure secure system operation and user data privacy.
Novel numerical analysis of electric fields in the near field of very‐low‐frequency antennas based on the charge simulation method
Authors: Ren Bo‐Yu , Li Xian‐Qiang , Qin Yuan‐Cheng , Du Hao , Fei Liang‐Chang , Huang Rui
Published: June 2024

Very‐low‐frequency (VLF) transmitting antennas have a crucial influence on the nearby electromagnetic environment. Commercial software packages, such as CST Studio Suite (CST) or Altair FEKO (FEKO), are always utilised to calculate the electric fields of VLF antennas, which consume considerable computing resources and time. The classical method of electric field calculation, the charge simulation method (CSM), is first applied to the calculation of electric field near the VLF transmitting antenna. The distribution characteristics of three‐dimensional electric fields were analysed. The electric field surrounding the antenna exhibited axial symmetry. The highest electric field strength was at the top of the antenna, and as the distance from the antenna increased, the electric field strength exponentially decreased. The comparisons are performed between the results of the CSM and those of commercial software, the average relative errors of CSM on two observation paths are very small, 2.20% and 2.21%, respectively. Meanwhile, the CSM shows considerable advantages in saving calculation resources and improving efficiency. Additionally, the comparison between CSM calculation and the measured data is carried out. The results show that this method can accurately calculate the electric field near VLF transmitting antenna and offer valuable insights and a new solution.
Performance analysis of hybrid combining schemes under Middleton class‐A and SαS${\rm S}\alpha{\rm S}$ impulsive noise model
Authors: Halim Md Abdul , Majumder Satya Prasad
Published: June 2024

Impulsive noise poses a significant challenge to single input multiple output wireless communication systems. This paper assesses the effectiveness of hybrid combining techniques, namely selection combining‐equal gain combining and selection combining‐maximal ratio combining, in mitigating impulsive noise impact caused by both man‐made and natural phenomena. The evaluation considers three different noise models: Additive white Gaussian noise, Middleton class‐A impulsive noise, and symmetric alpha stable impulsive noise, across Rayleigh and Rician fading channels. Bit error rate is employed to gauge channel performance. Our research contribution lies in the comprehensive assessment of hybrid combining techniques under diverse noise models, addressing a critical research gap in wireless communication. Findings indicate that impulsive noise has a more pronounced impact on channel performance than additive white Gaussian noise, and hybrid combining techniques prove more effective in mitigating these effects. The results hold significant implications for single input multiple output wireless communication systems, guiding the development of more robust and reliable communication systems in impulsive noise scenarios.
Time‐energy consumption optimal path‐constrained trajectory planning of excavator robotics
Authors: Zhang Yunyue , Sun Zhiyi , Sun Qianlai , Wang Yin
Published: June 2024

Reasonable operation of each excavator joint under path constraints directly affects operation efficiency and energy consumption. Efficiency and energy consumption are considerably important performance indicators, particularly for large equipment, such as excavators. Therefore, we propose a quadratic trajectory optimization method based on time–energy consumption. With the pseudo‐path velocity, acceleration, and equivalent convex jerk as constraints, the interior‐point method was used to obtain the time–energy consumption optimal trajectory of an excavator. The time and energy consumption values for different weight coefficients were obtained, and the optimal trajectory planning of the excavator was achieved. Furthermore, the simulation results of the proposed method for lifting 70 kg of materials for a weight coefficient of 0.5 were compared with the result of second‐order cone programming. Experimental results showed that using proposed method to plan the motion of each joint reasonably and effectively reduced the pseudo‐path jerk, acceleration, and velocity peaks by 40.67%, 25.03%, and 12.54%, respectively, ensuring smooth excavator movement. It also improved the working efficiency of the excavator; reduced unnecessary energy consumption; and improved the stability, efficiency, and energy saving of the autonomous operation of the excavator.
Gas phase Elemental abundances in Molecular cloudS (GEMS)
Authors: Beitia-Antero L. , Fuente A. , Navarro-Almaida D. , Gómez de Castro A. I. , Wakelam V. , Caselli P. , Le Gal R. , Esplugues G. , Rivière-Marichalar P. , Spezzano S. , Pineda J. E. , Rodríguez-Baras M. , Canet A. , Martín-Doménech R. , Roncero O.
Published: June 2024

Context. We explore the chemistry of the most abundant C-, O-, S-, and N-bearing species in molecular clouds, in the context of the IRAM 30 m Large Programme Gas phase Elemental abundances in Molecular Clouds (GEMS). Thus far, we have studied the impact of the variations in the temperature, density, cosmic-ray ionisation rate, and incident UV field in a set of abundant molecular species. In addition, the observed molecular abundances might be affected by turbulence which needs to be accounted for in order to have a more accurate description of the chemistry of interstellar filaments.

Aims. In this work, we aim to assess the limitations introduced in the observational works when a uniform density is assumed along the line of sight for fitting the observations, developing a very simple numerical model of a turbulent box. We searched for any observational imprints that might provide useful information on the turbulent state of the cloud based on kinematical or chemical tracers.

Methods. We performed a magnetohydrodynamical (MHD) simulation in order to reproduce the turbulent steady state of a turbulent box with properties typical of a molecular filament before collapse. We post-processed the results of the MHD simulation with a chemical code to predict molecular abundances, and then post-processed this cube with a radiative transfer code to create synthetic emission maps for a series of rotational transitions observed during the GEMS project.

Results. From the kinematical point of view, we find that the relative alignment between the observer and the mean magnetic field direction affect the observed line profiles, obtaining larger line widths for the case when the line of sight is perpendicular to the magnetic field. These differences might be detectable even after convolution with the IRAM 30 m efficiency for a nearby molecular cloud. From the chemical point of view, we find that turbulence produces variations for the predicted abundances, but they are more or less critical depending on the chosen transition and the chemical age. When compared to real observations, the results from the turbulent simulation provides a better fit than when assuming a uniform gas distribution along the line of sight.

Conclusions. In the view of our results, we conclude that taking into account turbulence when fitting observations might significantly improve the agreement with model predictions. This is especially important for sulfur bearing species which are very sensitive to the variations of density produced by turbulence at early times (0.1 Myr). The abundance of CO is also quite sensitive to turbulence when considering the evolution beyond a few 0.1 Myr.
Unraveling the binary nature of HQ Tau
Authors: Pouilly K. , Bouvier J. , Alecian E.
Published: June 2024

Context. Both the stellar activity and the accretion processes of young stellar objects can induce variations in their radial velocity (RV). This variation is often modulated on the stellar rotation period and may hide a RV signal from a planetary or even a stellar companion.

Aims. The aim of this study is to detect the companion of HQ Tau, the existence of which is suspected based on our previous study of this object. We also aim to derive the orbital elements of the system.

Methods. We used multi-variate Gaussian process regression on the RV and the bisector inverse slope of a six-month high-resolution spectroscopic follow-up observation of the system to model the stellar activity. This allowed us to extract the Keplerian RV modulation induced by the suspected companion.

Results. Our analysis yields the detection of a ∼50 Mjup brown dwarf companion orbiting HQ Tau with a ∼126 day orbital period. Although this is consistent with the modulation seen on this dataset, it does not fit the measurements from our previous work three years earlier. In order to include these measurements in our analysis, we hypothesise the presence of a third component with orbital elements that are consistent with those of the secondary according to our previous analysis (MB ∼ 48 Mjup, Porb, B ∼ 126 days), and a ∼465 Mjup tertiary with a ∼767 day orbital period. However, the hypothesis of a single companion with MB ∼ 188 Mjup and Porb ∼ 247 days can fit both datasets and cannot be completely excluded at this stage of the analysis.

Conclusions. At minima, HQ Tau is a single-lined spectroscopic binary, and several factors indicate that the companion is a brown dwarf and that a third component is responsible for larger RV variation on a longer timescale.
Challenges in modeling the dark matter halo of NGC 1052–DF2: Cored versus cuspy halo models
Authors: Aditya K.
Published: June 2024

Aims. The discovery of NGC 1052−DF2 and subsequent modeling have shown that NGC 1052−DF2 is deficient in dark matter and is in conflict with the standard stellar-to-halo mass ratio. In this work, we aim to resolve the degeneracy between the dynamical models on the mass estimate of the NGC 1052−DF2.

Methods. We constructed mass models of NGC 1052−DF2 using an anisotropic distribution function with a radially varying anisotropy parameter and studied the effect of the various model parameters on the dark matter estimates. We used the observed stellar photometry as an input parameter to construct the distribution function and employed a Markov chain Monte Carlo (MCMC) method to estimate the dark matter model parameters.

Results. We find that mass models with a cuspy dark matter halo have comparable χ2 to models with zero dark matter. Moreover, the cuspy dark matter halo fails to consistently account for the observed velocity dispersion in the inner and outer regions of the galaxy. Consequently, we rule out the possibility of a cuspy dark matter halo for describing the mass models of NGC 1052−DF2. Our study shows that the cored dark matter halo model with a total mass of log(MDM/M⊙) = 10.5 explains the observed kinematics but requires an extraordinarily large scale length (20 kpc) and an outer cutoff radius (26 kpc). While the cored mass model provides a comparatively better fit, our findings emphasize that the mass models are largely unconstrained by the available kinematic data. Our results suggest that NGC 1052−DF2 may not only have an ultra-diffuse stellar distribution but that it can, within uncertainties in the available kinematic data, potentially host an ultra-diffuse dark matter distribution compatible with the standard stellar-to-halo mass relation (SHMR) predicted by galaxy formation and evolution models.
Testing MOND using the dynamics of nearby stellar streams
Authors: Koop Orlin , Helmi Amina
Published: June 2024

Context. The stellar halo of the Milky Way is built up at least in part from debris from past mergers. The stars from these merger events define substructures in phase space, for example in the form of streams, which are groups of stars that move on similar trajectories. The nearby Helmi streams discovered more than two decades ago are a well-known example. Using 6D phase-space information from the Gaia space mission, recent work showed that the Helmi streams are split into two clumps in angular momentum space. This substructure can be explained and sustained in time if the dark matter halo of the Milky Way takes a prolate shape in the region probed by the orbits of the stars in the streams.

Aims. Here, we explore the behaviour of the two clumps identified in the Helmi streams in a modified Newtonian dynamics (MOND) framework to test this alternative model of gravity.

Methods. We performed orbit integrations of Helmi streams member stars in a simplified MOND model of the Milky Way and using the more sophisticated phantom of RAMSES simulation framework.

Results. We find with both approaches that the two Helmi streams clumps do not retain their identity and dissolve after merely 100 Myr. This extremely short timescale would render the detection of two separate clumps very unlikely in MONDian gravity.

Conclusions. The observational constraints provided by the streams, which MOND fails to reproduce in its current formulation, could potentially also be used to test other alternative gravity models.
Three super-Earths and a possible water world from TESS and ESPRESSO
Authors: Hobson M. J. , Bouchy F. , Lavie B. , Lovis C. , Adibekyan V. , Allende Prieto C. , Alibert Y. , Barros S. C. C. , Castro-González A. , Cristiani S. , D’Odorico V. , Damasso M. , Di Marcantonio P. , Dumusque X. , Ehrenreich D. , Figueira P. , Génova Santos R. , Gilbert E. A. , González Hernández J. I. , Lillo-Box J. , Lo Curto G. , Martins C. J. A. P. , Mehner A. , Micela G. , Molaro P. , Nunes N. J. , Palle E. , Pepe F. , Rebolo R. , Rodrigues J. , Santos N. , Sousa S. G. , Sozzetti A. , Suárez Mascareño A. , Tabernero H. M. , Udry S. , Zapatero Osorio M.-R. , Armstrong D. J. , Ciardi D. R. , Collins K. A. , Collins K. I. , Everett M. , Gandolfi D. , Howell S. B. , Jenkins J. M. , Kielkopf J. , Livingston J. H. , Lund M. B. , Mireles I. , Ricker G. R. , Schwarz R. P. , Seager S. , Tan T.-G. , Ting E. B. , Winn J. N.
Published: June 2024

Context. Since 2018, the ESPRESSO spectrograph at the VLT has been hunting for planets in the southern skies via the radial velocity (RV) method. One of its goals is to follow up on candidate planets from transit surveys such as the TESS mission, with a particular focus on small planets for which ESPRESSO’s RV precision is vital.

Aims. We aim to confirm and characterise, in detail, three super-Earth candidate transiting planets from TESS using precise RVs from ESPRESSO.

Methods. We analysed photometry from TESS and ground-based facilities, high-resolution imaging, and RVs from ESPRESSO, HARPS, and HIRES, to confirm and characterise three new planets: TOI-260 b, transiting a late K dwarf, and TOI-286 b and c, orbiting an early K dwarf. We also updated the parameters for the known super-Earth TOI-134 b (L 168-9 b), which is hosted by an M dwarf.

Results. TOI-260 b has a 13.475853−0.000011+0.000013 d period, 4.23 ± 1.60 M⊕ mass, and 1.71 ± 0.08 R⊕ radius. For TOI-286 b we find a 4.5117244−0.0000027+0.0000031 d period, 4.53 ± 0.78 M⊕ mass, and 1.42 ± 0.10 R⊕ radius; for TOI-286 c, we find a 39.361826−0.000081+0.000070 d period, 3.72 ± 2.22 M⊕ mass, and 1.88 ± 0.12 R⊕ radius. For TOI-134 b we obtain a 1.40152604−0.00000082+0.00000074 d period, 4.07 ± 0.45 M⊕ mass, and 1.63 ± 0.14 R⊕ radius. Circular models are preferred for all the planets, although for TOI-260 b the eccentricity is not well constrained. We computed bulk densities and placed the planets in the context of composition models.

Conclusions. TOI-260 b lies within the radius valley, and is most likely a rocky planet. However, the uncertainty on the eccentricity and thus on the mass renders its composition hard to determine. TOI-286 b and c span the radius valley, with TOI-286 b lying below it and having a likely rocky composition, while TOI-286 c is within the valley, close to the upper border, and probably has a significant water fraction. With our updated parameters for TOI-134 b, we obtain a lower density than previous findings, giving a rocky or Earth-like composition.
Assessing Water Erosion Vulnerability in the Lower Ziz Watershed: Integrating PAP/RAC methodology with Remote Sensing and GIS
Authors: El Moutkine Khaoula , Tabyaoui Hassan , El Hammichi Fatima , El Hassani Farah , Benabdelhadi Mohammed
Published: June 2024

Degradation presents a significant challenge, particularly exacerbated by current climate change. Our study focuses on the Lower Ziz watershed, located in southeastern Morocco, which is characterized by a semi-desert climate and is at high risk of land degradation due to water and wind erosion. Natural factors such as precipitation intensity and frequency, slope inclinations, low vegetation cover density, and soil characteristics, combined with anthropogenic activities, contribute to increasing the erosion risk within this watershed. The use of unsustainable agricultural practices has also contributed to this growing vulnerability. To investigate this phenomenon, we adopted the PAP/CAR method, a qualitative approach for mapping and assessing vulnerability to water erosion in the watershed. This method integrates essential physical data such as topography, lithology, soil types, and vegetation cover, facilitating a comprehensive analysis of erosion risk. Through the use of remote sensing tools and geographic information systems (GIS), we have generated detailed thematic maps, streamlined the mapping process, and improved data management. The findings of this research provide valuable insights for sustainable land and natural resource management in the Lower Ziz watershed and can aid in the formulation of prevention and mitigation strategies for water erosion in similar contexts globally. Our predictive mapping approach indicates that 37.34% of the watershed exhibits low to very low susceptibility to water erosion, while 55.96% experiences moderate erosion, with the remaining 6.7% being highly erodible. Additionally, our descriptive analysis highlights the prevalence of gully and surface gullying erosion, encompassing 49.32% of the area, as well as deep gully erosion, affecting 41.89%.”
Ethnobotanical survey of Silybum marianum L. Gaertn in the Ouezzane region (northwestern Morocco): Knowledge and use of the plant
Authors: Louafi Boutaina , Slimani Chaimae , Bessi Aymane , Rais Chaimae , El Ghadraoui Lahsen , Benjelloun Meryem
Published: June 2024

Silybum marianum L. Gaertn is a spontaneous plant whose medicinal properties have been used for over two thousand years. This study aims to clarify the understanding and utilisation of S. marianum by the rural and urban populations of Ouezzane region in Morocco, in order to assess the level of recognition and exploitation of this plant. An ethnobotanical survey in this region involved a sample of 140 individuals. Survey results are analyzed using SPSS. The survey results have revealed a significantly limited level of appreciation for S. marianum. Through the use of chi-square statistical tests, we identified significant relationships between our variables and the knowledge about S. marianum and its use. Based on the findings of our study, Silybum marianum L. remains one of Morocco's most neglected and underutilized plants. This may be due to a lack of knowledge or adequate information about its applications, a lack of general interest or even socio-economic factors that limit its exploitation.
Fuel Performance Comparison of Uranium Nitride and Uranium Carbide in VVER-1200 using OpenMC
Authors: Jamil Meekal , Ali Majid
Published: June 2024

Nuclear power is a reliable and large-scale source of GHG-free electricity. This study asses the viability of ATF fuel of uranium nitride (UN) and uranium carbide (UC) as fuel for the VVER-1200 reactor. A comprehensive overview of the VVER-1200 and Accident Tolerant fuels is conducted. A review of the development of ATFs identified UN and UC as viable fuels for the VVER reactor. The study utilizes OpenMC to model the VVER-1200 core and compares the behaviour of ATF with conventional fuel. Key findings include comparable k-eff values implying similar neutronic behaviour. UO2 and UC showed similar fission rates across the core while UN showed higher neutron flux and fission rate in the outer part of the core. The base Z44B2 showed increased flux and fission rate with UN as the fuel. ATF behaviour showed to be comparable to the UO2 and thus is a potential alternative to conventional fuels. ATFs provide an additional level of safety because of higher melting points and higher thermal conductivity. This study can be further improved to investigate the depletion of ATFs so that the behaviours of the core over large periods of time, fission products and operator safety can be assessed. Base case k-eff value of 1.24795 are comparable to k-eff values generated by UN and UC.
Influence of Inclined Chip Angles on Dynamic Contact Angle Variations in Digital Microfluidics
Authors: Ali Moazzam , Ullah Hammas , Javaid Hamza , Naeem Nauman , Jafry Ali Turab , Ajab Huma
Published: June 2024

The impact of tilted angles on contact angles of water droplets in digital microfluidics was investigated. Experiments were conducted tilting the chip from 0 to 10 degrees at voltage increments of 50V from 250V to 400V DC. Both advancing and receding contact angles of the water droplets were measured at each angle and voltage combination. As the tilted angle increased from horizontal to 10 degrees, the advancing contact angle generally decreased whereas the receding contact angle increased. This trend held for all tested voltages. The changes were more pronounced at higher tilt angles above 5 degrees. Voltage was also found to influence the contact angles, with both advancing and receding angles decreasing with increasing driving voltage. The results provide insight into how tilted surface angles affect wetting properties in digital microfluidics. By understanding these relationships between contact angles, tilt angles and driving voltages, design parameters like maximum operational tilt angles before droplet pinning or instability can be better determined. The findings may assist in designing and optimizing tilted or three-dimensional digital microfluidic devices and applications.