bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A de novo ARIH2 gene mutation was detected in a patient with autism spectrum disorders and intellectual disability
Authors: Vinci Mirella , Treccarichi Simone , Galati Rando Rosanna , Musumeci Antonino , Todaro Valeria , Federico Concetta , Saccone Salvatore , Elia Maurizio , Calì Francesco
Published: July 2024

E3 ubiquitin protein ligase encoded by ARIH2 gene catalyses the ubiquitination of target proteins and plays a crucial role in posttranslational modifications across various cellular processes. As prior documented, mutations in genes involved in the ubiquitination process are often associated with autism spectrum disorder (ASD) and/or intellectual disability (ID). In the current study, a de novo heterozygous mutation was identified in the splicing intronic region adjacent to the last exon of the ARIH2 gene using whole exome sequencing (WES). We hypothesize that this mutation, found in an ASD/ID patient, disrupts the protein Ariadne domain which is involved in the autoinhibition of ARIH2 enzyme. Predictive analyses elucidated the implications of the novel mutation in the splicing process and confirmed its autosomal dominant inheritance model. Nevertheless, we cannot exclude the possibility that other genetic factors, undetectable by WES, such as mutations in non-coding regions and polygenic risk in inter-allelic complementation, may contribute to the patient's phenotype. This work aims to suggest potential relationship between the detected mutation in ARIH2 gene and both ASD and ID, even though functional studies combined with new sequencing approaches will be necessary to validate this hypothesis.
Effect of iodine species on biofortification of iodine in cabbage plants cultivated in hydroponic cultures
Authors: Dobosy Péter , Nguyen Hoang Thi Phuong , Záray Gyula , Streli Christina , Ingerle Dieter , Ziegler Philipp , Radtke Martin , Buzanich Ana Guilherme , Endrédi Anett , Fodor Ferenc
Published: July 2024

Iodine is an essential trace element in the human diet because it is involved in the synthesis of thyroid hormones. Iodine deficiency affects over 2.2 billion people worldwide, making it a significant challenge to find plant-based sources of iodine that meet the recommended daily intake of this trace element. In this study, cabbage plants were cultivated in a hydroponic system containing iodine at concentrations ranging from 0.01 to 1.0 mg/L in the form of potassium iodide or potassium iodate. During the experiments, plant physiological parameters, biomass production, and concentration changes of iodine and selected microelements in different plant parts were investigated. In addition, the oxidation state of the accumulated iodine in root samples was determined. Results showed that iodine addition had no effect on photosynthetic efficiency and chlorophyll content. Iodide treatment did not considerably stimulate biomass production but iodate treatment increased it at concentrations less than 0.5 mg/L. Increasing iodine concentrations in the nutrient solutions increased iodine content in all plant parts; however, the iodide treatment was 2–7 times more efficient than the iodate treatment. It was concluded, that iodide addition was more favourable on the target element accumulation, however, it should be highlighted that application of this chemical form in nutrient solution decreased the concetrations of selected micoelement concentration comparing with the control plants. It was established that iodate was reduced to iodide during its uptake in cabbage roots, which means that independently from the oxidation number of iodine (+ 5, − 1) applied in the nutrient solutions, the reduced form of target element was transported to the aerial and edible tissues.
Event-related potentials during encoding coincide with subsequent forced-choice mnemonic discrimination
Authors: Rollins Leslie , Khuu Alexis , Bennett Kaylee
Published: July 2024

Computational models and eye-tracking research suggest that encoding variability accounts for the reduced recognition of targets (A) when paired with non-corresponding lures (B′) relative to corresponding lures (A′). The current study examined whether neural activity during learning coincided with subsequent performance on the forced-choice Mnemonic Similarity Task (MST). Event-related potential responses were collected during encoding while young adults completed A–B′ and A–A′ trials of the forced-choice MST. Consistent with previous research, performance was lower on A–B′ trials than A–A′ trials. The subsequent memory effect was not significant for the A–A′ test format. However, for A–B′ trials, we observed a significant Accuracy × Stimulus interaction 1000–1200 ms poststimulus onset across frontal and fronto-central electrodes. As hypothesized, subsequently correct A–B′ trials were associated with a larger amplitude response at encoding to the target (A) than the original version of the non-corresponding lure (B). However, subsequently incorrect trials were associated with a larger amplitude response to the non-corresponding lure (B) than the target stimulus (A). These findings provide additional support for the effect of encoding variability on mnemonic discrimination.
Employing antagonistic C-X-C motif chemokine receptor 4 antagonistic peptide functionalized NaGdF4 nanodots for magnetic resonance imaging-guided biotherapy of breast cancer
Authors: Li Xiaodong , Bao Yunkai , Li Zhuheng , Teng Peihong , Ma Lina , Zhang Hua , Liu Guifeng , Wang Zhenxin
Published: July 2024

C-X-C motif chemokine receptor 4 (CXCR4) is a promising therapeutic target of breast cancer because it is overexpressed on cell surface of all molecular subtypes of breast cancer including triplenegative breast cancer (TNBC). Herein, CXCR4 antagonistic peptide-NaGdF4 nanodot conjugates (termed as anti-CXCR4-NaGdF4 NDs) have been constructed for magnetic resonance imaging (MRI)-guided biotherapy of TNBC through conjugation of the C-X-C Motif Chemokine 12 (CXCL12)-derived cyclic peptide with tryptone coated NaGdF4 nanodots (5 ± 0.5 nm in diameter, termed as Try-NaGdF4 NDs). The as-prepared anti-CXCR4-NaGdF4 NDs exhibits high longitudinal relaxivity (r1) value (21.87 mM−1S−1), reasonable biocompatibility and good tumor accumulation ability. The features of anti-CXCR4-NaGdF4 NDs improve the tumor-MRI sensitivity and facilitate tumor biotherapy after injection in mouse-bearing MDA-MB-231 tumor model in vivo. MRI-guided biotherapy using anti-CXCR4-NaGdF4 NDs enables to suppress 46% tumor growth. In addition, about 47% injection dose of anti-CXCR4-NaGdF4 NDs is found in the mouse urine at 24 h post-injection. These findings demonstrate that anti-CXCR4-NaGdF4 NDs enable to be used as renal clearable nanomedicine for biotherapy and MRI of breast cancer.
The incidence of diabetes mellitus and its determining factors in a Kurdish population: insights from a cohort study in western Iran
Authors: Najafi Farid , Moradinazar Mehdi , Khosravi Shadmani Fatemeh , Pasdar Yahya , Darbandi Mitra , Salimi Yahya , Ghasemi Seyed Ramin
Published: July 2024

Diabetes mellitus (DM) is among the most widespread non-communicable diseases and poses a substantial global health challenge. The aim of this study was to examine the incidence of DM and its nutritional, anthropometric, laboratory, demographic, and behavioral determinants, as well as comorbidities, within a Kurdish population residing in western Iran. This research was conducted in the Ravansar Non-Communicable Disease (RaNCD) cohort study, followed 9170 participants aged 35–65 years, for an average ± SD of 7.11 ± 1.26 years, from 2015 until 2023. A hierarchical Cox regression model was used to estimates the adjusted hazard ratios (HRs). The incidence of DM was 4.45 (95% CI 3.96, 4.99) per 1000 person-years. We found several significant predictors for DM incidence, including prediabetes, comorbidity, urban residence, total antioxidant capacity (TAC), and the interaction between gender and body mass index (BMI). Prediabetes emerged as the strongest predictor of DM incidence, with a hazard ratio of 10.13 (CI 7.84, 13.09). Additionally, having two diseases (HR = 2.18; 95% CI 1.44, 3.29) or three and more diseases (HR = 3.17; 95% CI 2.06, 4.90) increased the risk of developing DM. Also, the hazard ratios for the effects of gender on DM incidence in the normal, overweight, and obese BMI groups were 0.24, 0.81, and 1.01, respectively. The presence of prediabetes and obesity serve as the crucial indicators for the onset of DM, emphasizing the pressing need for interventions to prevent DM in these circumstances. Furthermore, there are notable disparities between urban and rural populations in this study, warranting further investigations to ascertain the underlying causes of such variations.
Induction of LTP mechanisms in dually innervated dendritic spines
Authors: Tullis Jonathan E. , Bayer K. Ulrich
Published: July 2024

Dendritic spines are the postsynaptic compartments of excitatory synapses, however, a substantial subset of spines additionally receives inhibitory input. In such dually innervated spines (DiSs), excitatory long-term potentiation (LTP) mechanisms are suppressed, but can be enabled by blocking tonic inhibitory GABAB receptor signaling. Here we show that LTP mechanisms at DiSs are also enabled by two other excitatory LTP stimuli. In hippocampal neurons, these chemical LTP (cLTP) stimuli induced robust movement of the Ca2+/calmodulin-dependent protein kinase II (CaMKII) to DiSs. Such synaptic CaMKII accumulation is an essential LTP mechanism at singly innervated spines (SiSs). Indeed, CaMKII accumulation at DiSs was also accompanied by other readouts for successful LTP induction: spine growth and surface insertion of GluA1. Thus, DiSs are capable of the same LTP mechanisms as SiSs, although induction of these mechanism additionally requires either reduced inhibitory signaling or increased excitatory stimulation. This additional regulation may provide further computational control.
Predicting blood–brain barrier permeability of molecules with a large language model and machine learning
Authors: Huang Eddie T. C. , Yang Jai-Sing , Liao Ken Y. K. , Tseng Warren C. W. , Lee C. K. , Gill Michelle , Compas Colin , See Simon , Tsai Fuu-Jen
Published: July 2024

Predicting the blood–brain barrier (BBB) permeability of small-molecule compounds using a novel artificial intelligence platform is necessary for drug discovery. Machine learning and a large language model on artificial intelligence (AI) tools improve the accuracy and shorten the time for new drug development. The primary goal of this research is to develop artificial intelligence (AI) computing models and novel deep learning architectures capable of predicting whether molecules can permeate the human blood–brain barrier (BBB). The in silico (computational) and in vitro (experimental) results were validated by the Natural Products Research Laboratories (NPRL) at China Medical University Hospital (CMUH). The transformer-based MegaMolBART was used as the simplified molecular input line entry system (SMILES) encoder with an XGBoost classifier as an in silico method to check if a molecule could cross through the BBB. We used Morgan or Circular fingerprints to apply the Morgan algorithm to a set of atomic invariants as a baseline encoder also with an XGBoost classifier to compare the results. BBB permeability was assessed in vitro using three-dimensional (3D) human BBB spheroids (human brain microvascular endothelial cells, brain vascular pericytes, and astrocytes). Using multiple BBB databases, the results of the final in silico transformer and XGBoost model achieved an area under the receiver operating characteristic curve of 0.88 on the held-out test dataset. Temozolomide (TMZ) and 21 randomly selected BBB permeable compounds (Pred scores = 1, indicating BBB-permeable) from the NPRL penetrated human BBB spheroid cells. No evidence suggests that ferulic acid or five BBB-impermeable compounds (Pred scores < 1.29423E−05, which designate compounds that pass through the human BBB) can pass through the spheroid cells of the BBB. Our validation of in vitro experiments indicated that the in silico prediction of small-molecule permeation in the BBB model is accurate. Transformer-based models like MegaMolBART, leveraging the SMILES representations of molecules, show great promise for applications in new drug discovery. These models have the potential to accelerate the development of novel targeted treatments for disorders of the central nervous system.
Explosive eruption style modulates volcanic electrification signals
Authors: Vossen Caron E. J. , Cimarelli Corrado , D’Auria Luca , Cigala Valeria , Kueppers Ulrich , Barrancos José , Bennett Alec J.
Published: July 2024

Volcanic lightning detection has proven useful to volcano monitoring by providing information on eruption onset, source parameters, and ash cloud directions. However, little is known about the influence of changing eruptive styles on the generation of charge and electrical discharges inside the eruption column. The 2021 Tajogaite eruption (La Palma, Canary Islands) provided the rare opportunity to monitor variations in electrical activity continuously over several weeks using an electrostatic lightning detector. Here we show that throughout the eruption, silicate particle charging is the main electrification mechanism. Moreover, we find that the type of electrical activity is closely linked to the explosive eruption style. Fluctuations in the electrical discharge rates are likely controlled by variations in the mass eruption rate and/or changes in the eruption style. These findings hold promise for obtaining near real-time information on the dynamic evolution of explosive volcanic activity through electrostatic monitoring in the future.
Archaeometric characterization of pottery from the Houjiazhai site (ca. 7.3–5.7 ka BP), Anhui Province, China
Authors: Qi Fei , Qin Jinjiao , Wei Guofeng , Kan Xuhang
Published: July 2024

The analyse of Houjiazhai pottery in Anhui provide insight into the materials and techniques employed in crafting pottery in the middle reaches of the Huaihe River during the middle Neolithic period.
Molecular beacon-peptide probe based double recycling amplification for multiplexed detection of serum exosomal microRNAs
Authors: Liu Liang , Cai Junlong , Yang Kun , Sun Bo , Liu Wei , Li Yang , Hu Hankun
Published: July 2024

Double recycling amplification for multiplexed detection of serum exosomal microRNAs.
Photonic crystal gas sensors based on metal–organic frameworks and polymers
Authors: Wei Jianan , Yi Zhihao , Yang Liu , Zhang Ling , Yang Junchao , Qin Molin , Cao Shuya
Published: July 2024

In this paper, the recent advances in MOF, polymer and MOF/polymer-based PC sensors over the past ten years were summarized.
Probing action potentials of single beating cardiomyocytes using atomic force microscopy
Authors: Dong Jianjun , Wang Bowei , Wang Guoliang , Zhang Siwei , Wang Xingyue , Wang Rui , Crabbe M. James C. , Wang Zuobin
Published: July 2024

A method for measuring the action potential of cardiomyocytes using an improved AFM conductive probe as a nanoelectrode. The beating force and action potential of cardiomyocyte were recorded simultaneously using two different methods.
Influence of Mn composition on structural, optical, dielectric and magnetic properties of synthesized Cd1−xMnxTe (x = 0.08 & 0.12) polycrystals
Authors: James Johnson Staines Obed , Rajan Manivel , Paulraj Rajesh
Published: July 2024

Synthesis of polycrystalline CdMnTe using a homemade horizontal furnace: influence of Mn on structural, optical, dielectric and magnetic properties.
Influence of the crystallisation solution environment on the structural pathway from solute solvation to the polymorphic forms of tolfenamic acid
Authors: Liu Yu , Ma Cai Y. , Gong Junbo , Roberts Kevin J.
Published: July 2024

Multi-scale (molecular, cluster, crystallographic) modelling together with solvent-dependent polymorphic screening examines the influence of solution environment on TFA crystallisation.
Spin population determines whether antiaromaticity can increase or decrease radical stability
Authors: Song Yanlin , Zhu Jun
Published: July 2024

Theoretical calculations demonstrate that antiaromaticity can not only increase but also decrease the radical stability, depending on the spin population.
Giant manipulation of thermal conductivity anisotropy in black phosphorene under external electric fields
Authors: Yang Zhonghua , Zhang Mengyuan , Gu Wen , Xu Xinyi , Liu Chan , Lan Xinying
Published: July 2024

The thermal anisotropy of materials holds significant theoretical and practical implications in the domains of thermal transport and thermoelectricity.
Exploring the properties of Zr2CO2/GaS van der Waals heterostructures for optoelectronic applications
Authors: Rahman Altaf Ur , Abdul Muhammad , Karim Altaf , Rahman Gul , El Azab Islam H. , Jingfu Bao
Published: July 2024

Band alignment of a Zr2CO2/GaS vdW heterostructure with respect to the vacuum level. The Zr2CO2/GaS vdW heterostructure has type-II band alignment under 3% biaxial compressive strain, which meets the conditions for photocatalytic water splitting.
Surface matrix regulation of perovskite quantum dots for efficient solar cells
Authors: Xiao Shuhuai , Mei Xinyi , Zhang Xiaoliang
Published: July 2024

This review comprehensively discusses the latest advances in surface matrix regulation of perovskite quantum dots and proposes the opportunities and challenges of surface matrix regulation for high-performance solar cells.
Dominating (111) facets with ordered stacking in perovskite films
Authors: Liu Xiaotao , Jiang Xiaoqing , Yin Yanfeng , Zhang Jiafeng , Tian Hao , Guo Junxue , Guo Xin , Li Can
Published: July 2024

The (111) facet-dominated FAPbI3 perovskite films are prepared by a two-step method, which is realized by the additive-induced growth inhibition of the (100) facet, yielding 25.23% efficiency for perovskite solar cells with excellent stability.
Revisiting the unified principle for single-atom electrocatalysts in the sulfur reduction reaction: from liquid to solid-state electrolytes
Authors: Shen Jiadong , Liang Ziwei , Gu Tengteng , Sun Zhaoyu , Wu Yiwen , Liu Xiaoqin , Liu Junhao , Zhang Xiuying , Liu Jiangwen , Shen Lei , Zhu Min , Liu Jun
Published: July 2024

A new descriptor (λ) for lithium polysulfides (LPSs) conversion involving d–p coupling on catalyst surfaces. Our model, validated by DFT calculations and machine-learning algorithms, explains LPSs dynamics and improves Li–S battery performance.
Assessment of toxic effects of thallium on the earthworm Eisenia fetida using the biomarker response index
Authors: Li Shuai , Wang Zhifeng , Gao Nan , Niu Xiaoyu , Zhu Benteng , Xu Lusheng , Xue Weina
Published: July 2024

The Biomarker Response Index (BRI) was used to assess the comprehensive toxicity of thallium to earthworm Eisenia fetida.
Copper sulfide-incorporated layered porous sulfur-doped graphitic carbon nitride nanosheets for an efficient catalytic reduction of 4-nitrophenol
Authors: Mahanthappa Mallappa , Ramasundaram Subramaniyan , Upendranath K. , Fahad Mohd , Gunamalai Lavanya , Alduhaish Osamah , D. Mani , Oh Tae Hwan , R. S. Vishwanath
Published: July 2024

A straightforward one-pot synthesis of CuS nanoparticles directly grown on layered porous sulfur-doped graphitic carbon nitride nanosheets (CuS/S-g-C3N4) acts as a catalyst for the reduction of 4-nitrophenol.
Electrodeposition of a 3D dendritic Cu–Sn bimetallic alloy for electrocatalytic nitrate reduction to ammonia
Authors: Zhao Jinxiu , Xu Jingyi , Shi Liyi
Published: July 2024

Cu–Sn alloy attains an NH3 yield rate and faraday efficiency up to 293.12 μmol h−1 cm−2 and 78.57% at −1.2 V versus reversible hydrogen electrode in 0.1 M Na2SO4 (containing 0.01 M NaNO3) electrolyte.
A high-performance liquid chromatography method validation and a Box–Behnken experimental design for the extraction optimization of quercitrin from Nectandra reticulata
Authors: Pulido Teuta Juanita , Narváez-Cuenca Carlos-Eduardo , Ávila Murillo Mónica
Published: July 2024

The lower the content of ethanol in the extraction mixture and the higher the temperature, the higher the extraction of quercitrin.
MXene, protein, and KCl-assisted ionic conductive hydrogels with excellent anti-freezing capabilities, self-adhesive, ultra-stretchability, and remarkable mechanical properties for a high-performance wearable flexible sensor
Authors: Ijaz Irfan , Bukhari Aysha , Gilani Ezaz , Nazir Ammara , Zain Hina , Shaheen Attia , Shaik Mohammed Rafi , Assal Mohamed E. , Khan Mujeeb
Published: July 2024

The PAM/MXene15/AFP30/KCl15 hydrogel demonstrated negligible hysteresis behavior, quick electromechanical response (0.10 s), and excellent sensitivity (gauge factor (GF) = 13.1 within the strain range of 1200–2000%).
Synthesis, anticancer evaluation of novel hybrid pyrazole-based chalcones, molecular docking, DNA fragmentation, and gene expression: in vitro studies
Authors: Yasser Norhan , Sroor Farid M. , El-Shorbagy Haidan M. , Eissa Shaymaa M. , Hassaneen Hamdi M. , Abdelhamid Ismail A.
Published: July 2024

A new series of pyrazole-based chalcones were synthesized and tested against MCF7, PC3, PACA2 and BJ1 as in vitro study. Gene expression, DNA damage, DNA fragmentation and molecular docking for were discussed.
The complexity of chemistry mindset beliefs: a multiple case study approach
Authors: Santos Deborah L. , Mooring Suazette Reid
Published: July 2024

Mindset is a construct of interest for challenging learning environments, as science courses often are, in that, it has implications for behavioral responses to academic challenges. Previous work examining mindset in science learning contexts has been primarily quantitative in nature, limiting the theoretical basis for mindset perspectives specific to science domains. A few studies in physics education research have revealed domain-specific complexities applying to the mindset construct that suggest a need to explore undergraduate perspectives on mindset within each science domain. Here we present a multiple case study examining chemistry-specific mindset beliefs of students enrolled in general and organic chemistry lecture courses. A between-case analysis is used to describe six unique perspectives on chemistry mindset beliefs. This analysis revealed that students’ beliefs about their own ability to improve in chemistry intelligence or regarding chemistry-specific cognitive abilities did not consistently match their views on the potential for change for other students in chemistry. The nature of the abilities themselves (whether they were naturally occurring or developed with effort), and the presence of a natural inclination toward chemistry learning were observed to play a role in students’ perspectives. The findings from this analysis are used to propose a more complex model for chemistry-specific mindset beliefs to inform future work.
Melanin: Nature's 4th bioorganic polymer
Authors: Motovilov K. A. , Mostert A. B.
Published: July 2024

We analyse and compare the physico-chemical properties of melanins with other biological macromolecular systems and conclude that they are the fourth fundamental class of bioorganic materials alongside nucleic acids, proteins, and polysaccharides.
Generating zeolite crystals with mesoscopic aperiodic structure to promote catalytic hydroisomerization
Authors: Qie Guanyu , Deng Quanzheng , Deng Donghao , Zhai Miao , Ding Hongxin , Liu Wei , Han Lu , Zhu Kake
Published: July 2024

Nanocrystalline *MRE zeolite domains registered in quasicrystal-like, decagonal order is generated, which has strong acidity, reduced unidimensional channel length and mesopores, exhibiting enhanced n-dodecane hydroisomerization properties.
Graphene triggered catalytic attack on plastic waste produces graphitic shell encapsulation on cobalt nanoparticles for ferromagnetism and stable Li+ ion storage
Authors: Palanisamy Manikandan , Perumal Ramakrishnan , Zhang Di , Wang Haiyan , Maximova Olga , Rokhinson Leonid , Pol Vilas G.
Published: July 2024

Plastic wastes produced graphitic carbon shell encapsulation on cobalt nanoparticles and the derived composite materials showed ferromagnetism and superior Li+ ion storage of 377 mA h g–1 (Co-GNP-ZipC) and 509 mA h g–1 (Co-GNP-FmC) at the 250th cycle.
Interface-engineered hybrid electrocatalysts of Ti@holey-TiN/layered-double-hydroxides for efficient seawater electrolysis
Authors: Yoon Woosik , Park Yeon Hu , Jin Xiaoyan , Hwang Seong-Ju
Published: July 2024

The introduction of a holey TiN buffer layer on Ti foam enables the catalytic activity of a hybridized layered double hydroxide to be optimized for seawater electrolysis.
Molecular engineering of a theranostic molecule that detects Aβ plaques, inhibits Iowa and Dutch mutation Aβ self-aggregation and promotes lysosomal biogenesis for Alzheimer's disease
Authors: Iyaswamy Ashok , Wang Xueli , Zhang Hailong , Vasudevan Karthick , Wankhar Dapkupar , Lu Kejia , Krishnamoorthi Senthilkumar , Guan Xin-Jie , Su Cheng-Fu , Liu Jia , Kan Yuxuan , Jaganathan Ravindran , Deng Zhiqiang , Li Hung-Wing , Wong Man Shing , Li Min
Published: July 2024

Aβ specific theranostic small molecule, F-SLCOOH inhibits Aβ self-aggregation and promotes lysosomal biogenesis in Alzheimer’s disease models.
Temperature dependence of hydrogen diffusion in reservoir rocks: implications for hydrogen geologic storage
Authors: Yang Yun , Zandanel Amber , Liu Shimin , Neil Chelsea W. , Germann Timothy C. , Gross Michael R.
Published: July 2024

This study presents a comprehensive experimental dataset on the temperature-dependent diffusion of hydrogen (H2) in reservoir rocks. The results demonstrate that H2 diffuses through reservoir rocks up to 100 times faster than methane (CH4).
Early heart development: examining the dynamics of function-form emergence
Authors: Combémorel Noémie , Cavell Natasha , Tyser Richard C.V.
Published: July 2024

During early embryonic development, the heart undergoes a remarkable and complex transformation, acquiring its iconic four-chamber structure whilst concomitantly contracting to maintain its essential function. The emergence of cardiac form and function involves intricate interplays between molecular, cellular, and biomechanical events, unfolding with precision in both space and time. The dynamic morphological remodelling of the developing heart renders it particularly vulnerable to congenital defects, with heart malformations being the most common type of congenital birth defect (∼35% of all congenital birth defects). This mini-review aims to give an overview of the morphogenetic processes which govern early heart formation as well as the dynamics and mechanisms of early cardiac function. Moreover, we aim to highlight some of the interplay between these two processes and discuss how recent findings and emerging techniques/models offer promising avenues for future exploration. In summary, the developing heart is an exciting model to gain fundamental insight into the dynamic relationship between form and function, which will augment our understanding of cardiac congenital defects and provide a blueprint for potential therapeutic strategies to treat disease.
Influence of Sensory Monitoring on Speech Breathing Planning Processes: An Exploratory Study in Aging Speakers Reporting Dyspnea
Authors: Desjardins Maude , Jomphe Valérie , Lagadec-Gaulin Laurence , Cohen Matthew , Verdolini Abbott Katherine
Published: July 2024

Purpose:

Previous studies have suggested that inspirations during speech pauses are influenced by the length of adjacent utterances, owing to respiratory motor planning and physiological recovery processes. The goal of this study was to examine how attention to respiratory sensations may influence these processes in aging speakers with dyspnea, by measuring the effect of sensory monitoring on the relationship between utterance length and the occurrence of inspirations, as well as on functional voice and respiratory measures.

Method:

Seventeen adults aged 50 years and older with complaints of voicing-related dyspnea completed a repeated-measures protocol consisting of a 2-week baseline phase and a 4-week sensory monitoring phase. Audiovisual recordings of semistructured speech and self-report questionnaires were collected at study onset, after the baseline phase, and after the sensory monitoring phase. Repeated-measures logistic regressions were conducted to examine changes in the relationship between utterance length and the occurrence of inspirations in adjacent pauses, and repeated-measures analyses of variance were used to investigate any changes in functional voice and respiratory measures.

Results:

Planning and recovery processes appeared to remain constant across the baseline phase. From postbaseline to postsensory monitoring timepoints, a strengthening of the relationship between the presence of an inspiration during a speech pause and the length of the subsequent—but not preceding—utterance was noted. Significant improvements were noted in voice-related handicap from study onset to postsensory monitoring, but no changes were reported in respiratory comfort during speech.

Conclusions:

Results suggest that respiratory planning processes, that is, the ability to plan breath intakes based on the length of upcoming utterances, may be modifiable behaviorally through targeted sensory monitoring. Further studies are warranted to validate the proposed role of respiratory sensation awareness in achieving skilled temporal coordination between voicing and breathing.
Improved model predictive control based on Luenberger state observer for LC‐coupling hybrid active power filter
Authors: Lv Yuan , Zhang Shuhao , Zhang Kai , Yang Chunyuan , Zou Jie , Lei Wang
Published: July 2024

An improved model predictive control (MPC) with Luenberger state observer is proposed in this article for LC‐coupling hybrid active power filter (LC‐HAPF). Traditionally, the implementation of MPC for LC‐HAPF requires additional sensors to measure coupling capacitor voltage, thereby increases the system cost and reduces reliability. The existence of one‐step sampling delay in practice will also affect the final compensation performance. To relax these problems, both continuous and discrete models are deduced first. Then, the Luenberger observer is utilized based on the discrete model to mitigate the steady‐state error without additional sensors. In addition, the sampling delay compensation is provided by improving the prediction horizon. Finally, the effectiveness of the improved MPC for LC‐HAPF is verified by experiment results, indicating that the proposed method has fast dynamic response and low steady‐state error.
N‐polar deep‐recess GaN MISHEMT with enhanced ft·LG by gate dielectric thinning
Authors: Collins Henry , Akso Emre , Clymore Christopher J. , Khan Kamruzzaman , Hamwey Robert , Hatui Nirupam , Guidry Matthew , Keller Stacia , Mishra Umesh K.
Published: July 2024

The authors report a novel structure to improve the high‐frequency performance of nitrogen‐polar GaN deep‐recess high electron mobility transistors (HEMTs) wherein a timed plasma etch was used to tailor the profile of the gate dielectric. A favourable trade‐off between gate fringing capacitance and transconductance was established, resulting in an improved current gain cutoff frequency times gate length (ft·LG) figure of merit compared to standard Schottky‐gate and metal‐insulator‐semiconductor (MIS) HEMTs. The etched gate dielectric MISHEMT demonstrated a maximum ft·LG of 15.0 GHz·µm for an LG of 100 nm.
Converter non‐blocking DC fault ride‐through and system fast restoration arrangements in R‐L SFCL‐equipped MMC‐M2TDC system
Authors: Yirun Ji , Guo Peiqian , Qin Liu
Published: July 2024

Equipping a DC‐type superconducting fault current limiter (SFCL) in a modular multilevel converter‐based multi‐terminal DC (MMC‐M2TDC) system has the potential to reorganize the protection control arrangements during the DC‐side short‐circuit fault. This paper introduces the converter non‐blocking operation and system fast restoration control of the SFCL MMC‐M2TDC with the DC‐side bipolar fault condition, as well as their feasibility verifications. Considering the characteristics of overdamping oscillation of DC voltage and the additional impedance effect of the new resistor‐inductor SFCL (R‐L SFCL), the unfaulty converter non‐blocking protection enables faulty segment isolation and DC fault ride through without unwanted active power interruption. The restoration control for smooth reconnection and fast recovery of the off‐grid converter station ensures the DC voltage rebuilding process and reduces the required period. To validate the above arrangements, the simulation is conducted upon the PSCAD/EMTDC corresponding to the three‐terminal R‐L SFCL MMC‐M2TDC system. Finally, the research routes for novel superconducting coil design, SFCL scheme design, and multi‐device cooperative strategy are discussed, all of which contribute to promoting the high‐quality development of SFCL in MMC‐M2TDC scenarios.
An asymmetrical quadruple active bridge series resonant DC–DC converter for modular solid‐state transformers
Authors: Khani Saeid , Hosseini Seyed Hossein , Sabahi Mehran
Published: July 2024

The DC–DC conversion stage of a three‐stage solid‐state transformer is the most challenging due to the combination of high power, medium voltage, and medium frequency. This combination also causes most of the losses in the DC–DC stage. To address this issue, a new asymmetrical quadruple active bridge series resonant DC–DC converter (AQAB‐SRC) has been proposed as a building block for solid‐state transformers. The converter achieves soft switching of all switches throughout the operating range by extending and using the half‐cycle continuous conduction mode control strategy. It also has fewer high‐frequency transformers compared to other converters, as more bridges are connected to the same multi‐winding transformer. The optimal design of AQAB‐SRC has been analyzed theoretically, and simulation and lab‐scale experimental results have been obtained to validate the feasibility and validity of the proposed topology.
Optimized allocation of microgrids’ distributed generations and electric vehicle charging stations considering system uncertainties by clustering algorithms
Authors: Yaghoubi‐Nia Mohammad‐Reza , Hashemi‐Dezaki Hamed , Niasar Abolfazl Halvaei
Published: July 2024

The reliability‐oriented optimized sizing and placement of electric vehicle (EV) charging stations (EVCSs) has received less attention. In addition, the literature review shows that a research gap exists regarding a clustering‐based method to optimize the allocation of DGs and EVCSs, considering the system uncertainties. This article tries to fill such a knowledge gap by proposing a new clustering‐based method to optimize the allocation of DGs and EVs simultaneously, considering the uncertainties of EV behaviours and stochastic behaviours of renewable DGs. Developing a new stochastic model for EVs using the clustering algorithm is one of the essential contributions. The uncertain parameters, e.g. EV charging loads based on EV owners’ behaviours (arrival time, departure time, and driving distance) and renewable DGs, would be clustered. The proposed method could solve the execution time challenges of Monte Carlo simulation‐based approaches to concern the stochastic behaviours of smart grids. The simultaneously reliability‐oriented optimal allocation of EVCSs, DGs, and protection equipment, using the proposed clustering‐based algorithm is another main contribution. The IEEE 33‐bus test system is studied to examine the introduced method. Simulation results imply that a 1.45% accuracy improvement could be obtained compared to available analytical ones, while its execution time is appropriate.
ADRC‐based symmetric phase‐locked loop structure for improving low‐frequency stability of grid‐connected inverters
Authors: Zhu Yuan , Ohyama Kazuhiro
Published: July 2024

With a small short‐circuit ratio (SCR), the grid‐connected inverter is prone to low‐frequency oscillation instability due to the dynamic interaction between the phase‐locked loop (PLL) and the weak grid. To this end, an active‐disturbance‐rejection‐controller‐based symmetric PLL (ADRC‐based SyPLL) is proposed in this article to simplify the system modelling and improve the low‐frequency stability of the inverter system. Specifically, the ADRC technique is applied to phase‐regulated feedback control of a PLL, where an extended state observer (ESO) is used to estimate the lumped disturbance of the controlled system. A control loop symmetric to the q‐axis is further designed on the d‐axis of the PLL, and the d‐axis information is then added at the reference generation side to eliminate the coupled frequency term in the small‐signal model. A simple and accurate single‐input single‐output (SISO) model is thus obtained. The impedance stability analysis for grid‐connected inverters shows that the proposed ADRC‐based SyPLL can significantly improve the low‐frequency stability margin of the system compared with the conventional PI‐regulated PLL. Finally, the experimental results validate the effectiveness and superiority of the proposed method.
Review on reliability assessment of energy storage systems
Authors: Yan Xiaohe , Li Jialiang , Zhao Pengfei , Liu Nian , Wang Liangyou , Yue Bo , Liu Yanchao
Published: July 2024

As renewable energy, characterised by its intermittent nature, increasingly penetrates the conventional power grid, the role of energy storage systems (ESS) in maintaining energy balance becomes paramount. This dynamic necessitates a rigorous reliability assessment of ESS to ensure consistent energy availability and system stability. The authors provide a review of the existing research on ESS reliability assessment, encompassing various methods, models, reliability indicators, and offers an analysis of future research trends in ESS reliability. Firstly, the authors summarise the different types of ESS and their characteristics, analysing the trends in ESS reliability research and the unique characteristics of ESS compared to conventional power systems. Secondly, the methods used for the assessment are reviewed, including Markov methods, generalised generating functions, Monte Carlo simulations etc. The shortcomings and characteristics of these methods are discussed. The key reliability indicators, such as Mean Time Between Failures and Mean Time to Repair are emphasised. The applied role of reliability studies is summarised. Finally, the perspective of new research trends in ESS reliability assessment are identified, especially the integration of artificial intelligence and machine learning, and emphasises their potential to further improve the robustness and effectiveness of ESS reliability.
Cubic coil system composed of three sets of cubic triple coils to produce wide area 0.66% uniform magnetic field in any direction
Authors: Daimon Hiroshi , Matsushima Satoru
Published: July 2024

A cubic coil system, which combines three sets of cubic triple square coils orthogonal to each other, is proposed, constructed, and tested. This coil system can generate a 0.66% (=±0.33%) uniform magnetic field in any direction over a large region of ∼2 m, although there is some ripple. This system has the advantages of easy assembly, self-standing, and easy access to internal instruments. In one set of cubic triple square coils, the outer two square coils form a cube, and the middle square coil is located at the center of the cube. The number of turns in the center square coil is proposed to be 0.6 times that of the outer square coil.
A multi-orientation system for characterizing microstructure changes and mechanical responses of fine-grained gassy sediments associated with gas hydrates
Authors: Liu Lele , Liu Tao , Wu Chen , Bu Qingtao , Li Chengfeng , Zhang Yongchao , Wu Bisheng
Published: July 2024

Fine-grained marine sediments containing veiny and nodular gas hydrates will evolve into fine-grained gassy sediments after hydrate dissociation due to climate-driven ocean warming. The mechanical properties of the fine-grained gassy sediments are basically acquired by ocean engineering design. However, they have not been fully understood, largely due to the lack of microstructure visualization. In this paper, a new system is developed to jointly conduct x-ray computed tomography scans, oedometer tests, and seismic wave testing on a single specimen with temperature being well controlled, allowing varieties of experimental data to be acquired effectively and automatically. The results show that stress history can hardly affect the undrained stiffness of fine-grained gassy sediments, while the drained stiffness of fine-grained sediments without gas bubbles is stress history dependent. After being unloaded, many microstructure changes remain, and examples include the free gas distribution being more concentrated and the connectivity among gas bubbles becoming much better. The multi-orientation system lays the foundation for further studies on the microstructure changes and mechanical responses of fine-grained gassy sediments associated with gas hydrates.
Low latency optical-based mode tracking with machine learning deployed on FPGAs on a tokamak
Authors: Wei Y. , Forelli R. F. , Hansen C. , Levesque J. P. , Tran N. , Agar J. C. , Di Guglielmo G. , Mauel M. E. , Navratil G. A.
Published: July 2024

Active feedback control in magnetic confinement fusion devices is desirable to mitigate plasma instabilities and enable robust operation. Optical high-speed cameras provide a powerful, non-invasive diagnostic and can be suitable for these applications. In this study, we process high-speed camera data, at rates exceeding 100 kfps, on in situ field-programmable gate array (FPGA) hardware to track magnetohydrodynamic (MHD) mode evolution and generate control signals in real time. Our system utilizes a convolutional neural network (CNN) model, which predicts the n = 1 MHD mode amplitude and phase using camera images with better accuracy than other tested non-deep-learning-based methods. By implementing this model directly within the standard FPGA readout hardware of the high-speed camera diagnostic, our mode tracking system achieves a total trigger-to-output latency of 17.6 μs and a throughput of up to 120 kfps. This study at the High Beta Tokamak-Extended Pulse (HBT-EP) experiment demonstrates an FPGA-based high-speed camera data acquisition and processing system, enabling application in real-time machine-learning-based tokamak diagnostic and control as well as potential applications in other scientific domains.
Multiphase flow simulation of fractured karst oil reservoirs applying three-dimensional network models
Authors: Zheng Songqing , Wang Xiukun , Chen Jin , Gu Hao , Wu Wensheng
Published: July 2024

The characteristics of karst reservoirs are extremely varied and anisotropic, exhibiting notable differences in porosity, permeability, and corresponding fluid flow pathways. Fractured karst petroleum reservoirs, such as distinct caverns and fractures, are an example of a typical discrete media type. The traditional reservoir modeling approach and discrete fracture-like local refinement models are unsuitable for field application of fractured karst oil reservoirs due to the needs of high fidelity geological description and huge computing efforts. Based directly on the spatial characteristics of seismic surveys, a numerical simulation model in three dimensions, akin to a node-like network, is presented here for cracked karst oil reserves. First, the watershed image processing technique and the automatic connection identification procedure are used to extract the three-dimensional node-network model. After that, automatic differentiation is used to build the numerical finite volume scheme, and the proper gradient-based adjoint approach is used to conduct the related historical matching rapidly. After validation by a synthetic model in a commercial simulator, this proposed three-dimensional network numerical model is used for a field reservoir block of deep formation in the Tarim basin to demonstrate its computational efficiency and viability for enormously comparable karst oil reservoirs.
Impact of crystallographic facet of InGaN micro-LED sidewalls on electro-optical characteristics
Authors: Lex A. , Avramescu A. , Vögl F. , Brandl M. , Binder M. , Hetzl M. , Spende H. , Wolter S. , Waag A. , von Malm N.
Published: July 2024

InGaN micro-LEDs (μLEDs) with their potential high-volume applications have attracted substantial research interest in the past years. In comparison to other III–V semiconductors, InGaN exhibits a reduced susceptibility toward non-radiative surface recombination. However, efficiency degradation becomes more prominent as dimensions shrink to a few μm or less. Due to the high surface-to-volume ratio of the miniaturized devices, the non-radiative recombination increases and reduces the internal quantum efficiency. While many groups focus on surface passivation to mitigate surface defects, the influence of crystallographic orientation of the μLED sidewall on the efficiency remains unexplored. This study addresses this gap by investigating the impact of crystallographic orientation of the sidewalls on the emission properties of the μLEDs. Hexagonal and elongated μLEDs with dimensions as small as 3.5 μm and sidewalls with crystallographically well-defined m- and a-planes were fabricated. Electrical and optical properties were investigated using photo- and electroluminescence. External quantum efficiency (EQE) is assessed based on well-known carrier recombination models. It can be shown that μLED performance intrinsically depends on the crystallographic orientation of the sidewalls. Comparing hexagonal μLED structures with a-plane and m-plane sidewalls, an increase in the EQE by 33% was observed for structures with a-plane sidewalls, accompanied by reduction in the current density of the peak EQE by a nearly two orders of magnitude compared to structures with m-plane sidewalls. By analyzing the EQE characteristics at the μLED center and near the sidewalls, the improvements can be directly attributed to the increased radiative recombination from sidewalls with a-plane orientation.
Investigation of hydrogen/air co-flow jet flame propagation mechanism in supersonic crossflow
Authors: Li Xin , Pan Yu , Liu Chaoyang , Zou Junbo
Published: July 2024

The design of fuel injection schemes is crucial for improving the combustion performance of high-Mach number scramjet. To clarify the feasibility of the coaxial jet injection scheme, high fidelity Large Eddy Simulation of the supersonic coaxial jet flame is conducted. The simulations are in good agreement with the experimental results in terms of time-averaged velocity, temperature, and species distribution. Auto-ignition phenomenon and the characteristics of partially premixed flame are well captured. The introduction of co-flow air increases the vorticity magnitude close to the injection port and downstream near-wall region, which results in a 400 K rise in the time-averaged temperature on the downstream near-wall region and a 4% increase in the proportion of premixed combustion near the injection port. Moreover, the instantaneous distribution of hydroxy radical indicates that the spanwise width of the windward reaction shear layer is reduced utilizing the coaxial jet scheme. Chemical kinetic analysis is applied to reveal the propagation mechanism of partially premixed flames. Thermal explosion is the chemical explosion mode for all coaxial jet flame front, which are dominated by a high-temperature reaction path. The low-temperature reaction path mainly exists in the transverse jet injection port, downstream near-wall region of the single transverse jet and co-flow lifted flame base. These significant findings provide valuable insights for the potential engineering application of the coaxial jet injection scheme to a high Mach number scramjet.