bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Representation of solutions and finite‐time stability for fractional delay oscillation difference equations
Authors: Chen Yuting
Published: November 2023

In this article, an explicit solution of the homogeneous fractional delay oscillation difference equation of order
is given by constructing discrete sine‐ and cosine‐type delayed Mittag‐Leffler functions. Then, the discrete Laplace transform technique as an effective tool for solving the nonhomogeneous term, which is utilized to explore the solution of corresponding nonhomogeneous equation. Next, finite‐time stability of the homogeneous equation is studied based on the representation of the solution. Furthermore, we show a numerical example to elaborate the correctness of stability theory. Finally, an exact solution for the nonhomogeneous fractional difference equation with
is further presented via using the discrete two‐parameter delayed Mittag‐Leffler function.
Remarks on the global smooth solution of the 3D generalized magneto‐micropolar equations
Authors: Wu Jingbo , Wang Qingqing , Zhang Qiueyue , Dong Bo‐Qing
Published: November 2023

This paper is concerned with the global smooth solution of the 3D generalized magneto‐micropolar equations. When the velocity dissipation is logarithmically hyperdissipative and the magnetic diffusion is fractional Laplacian, based on some new observations on the nonlinear structure for the magneto‐micropolar equations, it is examined the system has a unique global smooth solution
.
CEST and nuclear Overhauser enhancement imaging with deep learning–extrapolated semisolid magnetization transfer reference: Scan‐rescan reproducibility and reliability studies
Authors: Heo Hye‐Young , Singh Munendra , Yedavalli Vivek , Jiang Shanshan , Zhou Jinyuan
Published: November 2023

Purpose

To develop a novel MR physics‐driven, deep‐learning, extrapolated semisolid magnetization transfer reference (DeepEMR) framework to provide fast, reliable magnetization transfer contrast (MTC) and CEST signal estimations, and to determine the reproducibility and reliability of the estimates from the DeepEMR.

Methods

A neural network was designed to predict a direct water saturation and MTC‐dominated signal at a certain CEST frequency offset using a few high‐frequency offset features in the Z‐spectrum. The accuracy, scan‐rescan reproducibility, and reliability of MTC, CEST, and relayed nuclear Overhauser enhancement (rNOE) signals estimated from the DeepEMR were evaluated on numerical phantoms and in heathy volunteers at 3 T. In addition, we applied the DeepEMR method to brain tumor patients and compared tissue contrast with other CEST calculation metrics.

Results

The DeepEMR method demonstrated a high degree of accuracy in the estimation of reference MTC signals at ±3.5 ppm for APT and rNOE imaging, and computational efficiency (˜190‐fold) compared with a conventional fitting approach. In addition, the DeepEMR method achieved high reproducibility and reliability (intraclass correlation coefficient = 0.97, intersubject coefficient of variation = 3.5%, and intrasubject coefficient of variation = 1.3%) of the estimation of MTC signals at ±3.5 ppm. In tumor patients, DeepEMR‐based amide proton transfer images provided higher tumor contrast than a conventional MT ratio asymmetry image, particularly at higher B1 strengths (>1.5 μT), with a distinct delineation of the tumor core from normal tissue or peritumoral edema.

Conclusion

The DeepEMR approach is feasible for measuring clean APT and rNOE effects in longitudinal and cross‐sectional studies with low scan‐rescan variability.
Myelin water imaging at 0.55 T using a multigradient‐echo sequence
Authors: Schäper Jessica , Bieri Oliver
Published: November 2023

Purpose

To investigate the prospects of a multigradient‐echo (mGRE) acquisition for in vivo myelin water imaging at 0.55 T.

Methods

Scans were performed on the brain of four healthy volunteers at 0.55 and 3 T, using a 3D mGRE sequence. The myelin water fraction (MWF) was calculated for both field strengths using a nonnegative least squares (NNLS) algorithm, implemented in the qMRLab suite. The quality of these maps as well as single‐voxel fits were compared visually for 0.55 and 3 T.

Results

The obtained MWF values at 0.55 T are consistent with previously reported ones at higher field strengths. The MWF maps are a considerable improvement over the ones at 3 T. Example fits show that 0.55 T data is better described by an exponential model than 3 T data, making the assumed multi‐exponential model of the NNLS algorithm more accurate.

Conclusion

This first assessment shows that mGRE myelin water imaging at 0.55 T is feasible and has the potential to yield better results than at higher fields.
Development of polyamide 6‐graphene oxide nanocomposite and direct‐joining with aluminum alloy for lightweight engineering applications
Authors: Luiz G. M. , Oliveira G. H. M. , Canto L. B.
Published: November 2023

Lightweight polyamide composites and structures have been widely studied and employed in several industrial sectors. In this study, the development of a nanocomposite of polyamide 6 and graphene oxide (PA6‐GO) by melt‐compounding and the joining with aluminum alloy AA6061 through direct‐adhesion injection overmolding are addressed. PA6‐GO nanocomposite exhibited well‐dispersed thin (300 nm) GO platelets distributed within the PA6 matrix, which resulted in an increase of 21% in the tensile modulus and 16% in the yield stress for a filler loading of 0.5 wt%. PA6‐GO/AA6061 hybrid joints showed good mechanical anchorage through the complete filling of the polymer into micro‐scale grooves designed onto the metal surface, which ensured outstanding shear strength of 7.1 ± 1.0 MPa, comparable to other polyamide‐metal hybrid joints reported in the literature. This indicates that the processing routes and materials developed are promising for lightweight engineering applications.

Highlights

A PA6‐GO nanocomposite with enhanced tensile properties was developed.

A joint of PA6‐GO and AA6061 with outstanding shear strength was obtained.

Fast and efficient melt‐processing routes were employed.

These materials are promising for lightweight engineering applications.
PECVD and PEALD on polymer substrates (part II): Understanding and tuning of barrier and membrane properties of thin films
Authors: de los Arcos Teresa , Awakowicz Peter , Böke Marc , Boysen Nils , Brinkmann Ralf Peter , Dahlmann Rainer , Devi Anjana , Eremin Denis , Franke Jonas , Gergs Tobias , Jenderny Jonathan , Kemaneci Efe , Kühne Thomas D. , Kusmierz Simon , Mussenbrock Thomas , Rubner Jens , Trieschmann Jan , Wessling Matthias , Xie Xiaofan , Zanders David , Zysk Frederik , Grundmeier Guido
Published: November 2023

This feature article presents insights concerning the correlation of plasma‐enhanced chemical vapor deposition and plasma‐enhanced atomic layer deposition thin film structures with their barrier or membrane properties. While in principle similar precursor gases and processes can be applied, the adjustment of deposition parameters for different polymer substrates can lead to either an effective diffusion barrier or selective permeabilities. In both cases, the understanding of the film growth and the analysis of the pore size distribution and the pore surface chemistry is of utmost importance for the understanding of the related transport properties of small molecules. In this regard, the article presents both concepts of thin film engineering and analytical as well as theoretical approaches leading to a comprehensive description of the state of the art in this field. Perspectives of future relevant research in this area, exploiting the presented correlation of film structure and molecular transport properties, are presented.
Shear and combustion characterization of printable ammonium perchlorate composite propellant formulations
Authors: Purcell Dylan C. , Hargather Michael J. , Hargather Chelsey Z.
Published: November 2023

Seven formulations of ammonium perchlorate composite propellant (APCP) are developed and their properties relevant for successful additive manufacture are characterized. Extrusion in a custom‐built 3D printing system and spindle viscometry are used to collect viscosity measurements of curing primary and non‐curing secondary versions of the formulations. The formulations that behave similarly to a Bingham plastic, with apparent viscosities between 4 and 8 thousand Pa*s at 30 minutes post‐mix, are determined to be most suitable for printing applications. Measurements of one material show a yield stress of 1 kPa. Ambient pressure burn rates of 2.0–2.9 mm/s were measured for the compositions tested. All measured burn rates were comparable to the lower end of typical burn rates for APCP. The results of the characterization demonstrate a propellant suitable for use in a 3D printing system.
Transgenerational hormesis and sublethal effects of five key insecticides for controlling Spodoptera frugiperda on its endoparasitoid Cotesia marginiventris
Authors: Hou Yang‐Yang , Zang Zhuo‐Yi , Lü Wen‐Jie , Xu Wei , Desneux Nicolas , Zang Lian‐Sheng
Published: November 2023

BACKGROUND

The endoparasitoid Cotesia marginiventris (Cresson) is a promising biological control agent of the fall armyworm (FAW) Spodoptera frugiperda (Smith). Because the application of insecticides is one of the prime choices in pest management, we evaluated the sublethal and transgenerational effects of the five key insecticides—chlorantraniliprole, emamectin benzoate, spinetoram, Bacillus thuringiensis (Bt), and Mamestra brassicae nucleopolyhedrovirus (MbNPV)—on the parasitoid.

Results

Exposure to five insecticides at a concentration causing 10% mortality (LC10) caused hormetic effects in the parent generation (F0) by increasing the parasitism and reducing the immature duration. Interestingly, the hormetic response was also observed in the offspring generation indirectly exposed to the insecticides. Furthermore, insecticides increased the parasitism rate by 6.32–14.73% in the F1 generation, which was similar to that of the F0 generation (3.96–11.81%) compared with the control. No significant adverse effect was observed on the number of emerged parasitoids of the F1 and F2 generations. However, insecticides had a detrimental impact on body size and fecundity in the F1 and F2 generations, which showed a small body size with shorter hind tibiae and a significant reduction in the female ratio compared with the control; the exception was that chlorantraniliprole significantly improved the female ratio in the F2 generation.

Conclusions

Five insecticides at LC10 induced transgenerational hormetic and sublethal effects on C. marginiventris. Our results provide a scientific basis for a better understanding of the long‐term impacts of insecticides at sublethal doses on parasitoids, facilitating the development of improved integrated pest management programs for FAW control. © 2023 Society of Chemical Industry.
1,2,4‐Triazole benzamide derivative TPB against Gaeumannomyces graminis var. tritici as a novel dual‐target fungicide inhibiting ergosterol synthesis and adenine nucleotide transferase function
Authors: Wang Limin , Song Xiaoyu , Cheng Yi‐nan , Cheng Senxiang , Chen Tong , Li Honglian , Yan Jingming , Wang Xiafei , Zhou Haifeng
Published: November 2023

BACKGROUND

Isopropyl 4‐(2‐chloro‐6‐(1H‐1,2,4‐triazol‐1‐yl)benzamido)benzoate (TPB) was a 1,2,4‐triazole benzoyl arylamine derivative with excellent antifungal activity, especially against Gaeumannomyces graminis var. tritici (Ggt). Its mechanism of action was investigated by transmission electron microscopy (TEM) observation, assays of sterol composition, cell membrane permeability, intracellular ATP and mitochondrial membrane potential, and mPTP permeability, ROS measurement, RNA sequencing (RNA‐seq) analysis.

RESULTS

TPB interfered with ergosterol synthesis, reducing ergosterol content, increasing toxic intermediates, and finally causing biomembrane disruption such as increasing cell membrane permeability and content leakage, and destruction of organelle membranes such as coarse endoplasmic reticulum and vacuole. Moreover, TPB destroyed the function of adenine nucleotide transferase (ANT), leading to ATP transport obstruction in mitochondria, inhibiting mPTP opening, inducing intracellular ROS accumulation and mitochondrial membrane potential loss, finally resulting in mitochondrial damage including mitochondria swelled, mitochondrial membrane dissolved, and cristae destroyed and reduced. RNA‐seq analyses showed that TPB increased the expression of ERG11, ERG24, ERG6, ERG5, ERG3 and ERG2 genes in ergosterol synthesis pathway, interfered with the expression of genes (NDUFS5, ATPeV0E, NCA2 and Pam17) related to mitochondrial structure, and inhibited the expression of genes (WrbA and GST) related to anti‐oxidative stress.

CONCLUSIONS

TPB exhibited excellent antifungal activity against Ggt by inhibiting ergosterol synthesis and destroying ANT function. So, TPB was a novel compound with dual‐target mechanism of action and can be considered a promising novel fungicide for the control of wheat Take‐all. The results provided new guides for the structural design of active compounds and powerful tools for pathogen resistance management. © 2023 Society of Chemical Industry.
Bayesian spatial analysis of fertility and multidimensional poverty in municipalities of Mexico 2020
Authors: Medina Gerardo Núñez , Pérez Patricia Catalina Medina
Published: November 2023

The low fertility levels observed in Mexico in recent years have been accompanied by high levels of poverty. The paper analyzes the effect of multidimensional poverty on the observed levels of fertility at the municipal level, that is, the relationship between the spatial dispersion of fertility and the observed levels of poverty. The analysis is based on the application of two hierarchical Bayesian models, the first one representing a spatial field that adjusts the behaviour of the total fertility rate and a second one that adds the effect of the poverty covariate to the spatial field. The results show that an increase in municipal poverty levels would cause a significant increase in fertility rates, which is evidenced by the formation of spatial clusters where high levels of fertility and poverty are observed.
Quantum Metrology in the Noisy Intermediate‐Scale Quantum Era
Authors: Jiao Lin , Wu Wei , Bai Si‐Yuan , An Jun‐Hong
Published: November 2023

Quantum metrology pursues the physical realization of higher‐precision measurements to physical quantities than the classically achievable limit by exploiting quantum features, such as entanglement and squeezing, as resources. It has potential applications in developing next‐generation frequency standards, magnetometers, radar, and navigation. However, the ubiquitous decoherence in the quantum world degrades the quantum resources and forces the precision back to or even worse than the classical limit, which is called the no‐go theorem of noisy quantum metrology and greatly hinders its applications. Therefore, how to realize the promised performance of quantum metrology in realistic noisy situations attracts much attention in recent years. The principle, categories, and applications of quantum metrology are reviewed. Special attention is paid to different quantum resources that can bring quantum superiority in enhancing sensitivity. Then, the no‐go theorem of noisy quantum metrology and its active control under different kinds of noise‐induced decoherence situations are introduced.
An Advanced Gel Polymer Electrolyte for Solid‐State Lithium Metal Batteries
Authors: Xian Chunxiang , Zhang Shengzhao , Liu Ping , Huang Lei , He Xinping , Shen Shenghui , Cao Feng , Liang Xinqi , Wang Chen , Wan Wangjun , Zhang Yongqi , Liu Xin , Zhong Yu , Xia Yang , Chen Minghua , Zhang Wenkui , Xia Xinhui , Tu Jiangping
Published: November 2023

All‐solid‐state lithium metal batteries (LMBs) are regarded as one of the most viable energy storage devices and their comprehensive properties are mainly controlled by solid electrolytes and interface compatibility. This work proposes an advanced poly(vinylidene fluoride‐hexafluoropropylene) based gel polymer electrolyte (AP‐GPEs) via functional superposition strategy, which involves incorporating butyl acrylate and polyethylene glycol diacrylate as elastic optimization framework, triethyl phosphate and fluoroethylene carbonate as flameproof liquid plasticizers, and Li7La3Zr2O12 nanowires (LLZO‐w) as ion‐conductive fillers, endowing the designed AP‐GPEs/LLZO‐w membrane with high mechanical strength, excellent flexibility, low flammability, low activation energy (0.137 eV), and improved ionic conductivity (0.42 × 10−3 S cm−1 at 20 °C) due to continuous ionic transport pathways. Additionally, the AP‐GPEs/LLZO‐w membrane shows good safety and chemical/electrochemical compatibility with the lithium anode, owing to the synergistic effect of LLZO‐w filler, flexible frameworks, and flame retardants. Consequently, the LiFePO4/Li batteries assembled with AP‐GPEs/LLZO‐w electrolyte exhibit enhanced cycling performance (87.3% capacity retention after 600 cycles at 1 C) and notable high‐rate capacity (93.3 mAh g−1 at 5 C). This work proposes a novel functional superposition strategy for the synthesis of high‐performance comprehensive GPEs for LMBs.
Efficient Carrier Transport in 2D Bi2O2Se/CsBi3I10 Perovskite Heterojunction Enables Highly‐Sensitive Broadband Photodetection
Authors: Dang Le‐Yang , Wei Zhan , Guo Jing , Cui Tian‐Hao , Wang Yongjie , Han Jie‐Cai , Wang Gui‐Gen
Published: November 2023

2D Bi2O2Se has recently garnered significant attention in the electronics and optoelectronics fields due to its remarkable photosensitivity, broad spectral absorption, and excellent long‐term environmental stability. However, the development of integrated Bi2O2Se photodetector with high performance and low‐power consumption is limited by material synthesis method and the inherent high carrier concentration of Bi2O2Se. Here, a type‐I heterojunction is presented, comprising 2D Bi2O2Se and lead‐free bismuth perovskite CsBi3I10, for fast response and broadband detection. Through effective charge transfer and strong coupling effect at the interfaces of Bi2O2Se and CsBi3I10, the response time is accelerated to 4.1 µs, and the detection range is expanded from ultraviolet to near‐infrared spectral regions (365–1500 nm). The as‐fabricated photodetector exhibits a responsivity of 48.63 AW−1 and a detectivity of 1.22×1012 Jones at 808 nm. Moreover, efficient modulation of the dominant photocurrent generation mechanism from photoconductive to photogating effect leads to sensitive response exceeding 103 AW−1 for heterojunction‐based photo field effect transistor (photo‐FETs). Utilizing the large‐scale growth of both Bi2O2Se and CsBi3I10, the as‐fabricated integrated photodetector array demonstrates outstanding homogeneity and stability of photo‐response performance. The proposed 2D Bi2O2Se/CsBi3I10 perovskite heterojunction holds promising prospects for the future‐generation photodetector arrays and integrated optoelectronic systems.
Preparation Strategies, Functional Regulation, and Applications of Multifunctional Nanomaterials‐Based DNA Hydrogels
Authors: Qiao Lu , Zhao Yue , Zhang Mingjuan , Tao Yani , Xiao Yao , Zhang Ni , Zhang Yi , Zhu Yuan
Published: November 2023

With the extensive attention of DNA hydrogels in biomedicine, biomaterial, and other research fields, more and more functional DNA hydrogels have emerged to match the various needs. Incorporating nanomaterials into the hydrogel network is an emerging strategy for functional DNA hydrogel construction. Surprisingly, nanomaterials‐based DNA hydrogels can be engineered to possess favorable properties, such as dynamic mechanical properties, excellent optical properties, particular electrical properties, perfect encapsulation properties, improved magnetic properties, and enhanced antibacterial properties. Herein, the preparation strategies of nanomaterials‐based DNA hydrogels are first highlighted and then different nanomaterial designs are used to demonstrate the functional regulation of DNA hydrogels to achieve specific properties. Subsequently, representative applications in biosensing, drug delivery, cell culture, and environmental protection are introduced with some selected examples. Finally, the current challenges and prospects are elaborated. The study envisions that this review will provide an insightful perspective for the further development of functional DNA hydrogels.
Phylogenetic relationships and biogeography in Hedysarum (Hedysareae, Fabaceae) with a focus on Central Asian taxa
Authors: Juramurodov Inom , Makhmudjanov Dilmurod , Liu Pei‐Liang , Yusupov Ziyoviddin , Nikitina Elena , Deng Tao , Tojibaev Komiljon , Sun Hang
Published: November 2023

Central Asia, especially the Tian‐Shan and Pamir‐Alay, is a biodiversity hotspot for Hedysarum (Fabaceae) with a high number of endemic species. However, to date, studies of the genus Hedysarum based on molecular data have included only a few species distributed in this region. To fill this gap, we analysed 110 Hedysarum species, 36 of which were from the Tian‐Shan and Pamir‐Alay Mountains of Central Asia. We performed phylogenetic analyses, divergence time estimates, and biogeographic analyses using both the internal transcribed spacers of nuclear ribosomal DNA (nrDNA ITS) and three plastid DNA (cpDNA) sequences (trnL‐trnF, matK, psbA‐trnH). Our phylogenetic analysis grouped the species of Hedysarum into three sections: H. sect. Hedysarum, sect. Multicaulia, and sect. Stracheya, which are largely consistent with previous phylogenetic classifications. Accordingly, most of the Central Asian species we studied (28 spp.) were placed in H. subsect. Crinifera within H. sect. Multicaulia. Our divergence time and biogeographic analyses indicate that Hedysarum likely originated in West Asia and/or East Asia during the Early Miocene or Middle Miocene and subsequently dispersed to adjacent areas of Eurasia, as well as North America via the Bering Land Bridge. The likely area of origin for H. sect. Multicaulia is West Asia, while East Asia appears to be the center of origin for H. sect. Hedysarum and sect. Stracheya. In addition, we suggest that the rapid radiation of the species of H. subsect. Crinifera occurred in the Tian‐Shan and Pamir‐Alay Mountains, as well as the Turkish‐Iranian Plateau, and that geological and climatic changes were the main causes of speciation in Hedysarum.
Precision genetics tools for genetic improvement of banana
Authors: Tripathi Jaindra Nath , Ntui Valentine Otang , Tripathi Leena
Published: November 2023

Banana is an important food security crop for millions of people in the tropics but it faces challenges from diseases and pests. Traditional breeding methods have limitations, prompting the exploration of precision genetic tools like genetic modification and genome editing. Extensive efforts using transgenic approaches have been made to develop improved banana varieties with resistance to banana Xanthomonas wilt, Fusarium wilt, and nematodes. However, these efforts should be extended for other pests, diseases, and abiotic stresses. The commercialization of transgenic crops still faces continuous challenges with regulatory and public acceptance. Genome editing, particularly CRISPR/Cas, offers precise modifications to the banana genome and has been successfully applied in the improvement of banana. Targeting specific genes can contribute to the development of improved banana varieties with enhanced resistance to various biotic and abiotic constraints. This review discusses recent advances in banana improvement achieved through genetic modification and genome editing.
Thermal effects in freeze-in neutrino dark mater production
Authors: Abada A. , Arcadi G. , Lucente M. , Piazza G. , Rosauro-Alcaraz S.
Published: November 2023

Abstract

We present a detailed study of the production of dark matter in the form of a sterile neutrino via freeze-in from decays of heavy right-handed neutrinos. Our treatment accounts for thermal effects in the effective couplings, generated via neutrino mixing, of the new heavy neutrinos with the Standard Model gauge and Higgs bosons and can be applied to several low-energy fermion seesaw scenarios featuring heavy neutrinos in thermal equilibrium with the primordial plasma. We find that the production of dark matter is not as suppressed as to what is found when considering only Standard Model gauge interactions. Our study shows that the freeze-in dark matter production could be efficient.
Bergman Projection on Lebesgue Space Induced by Doubling Weight
Authors: Peláez José Ángel , de la Rosa Elena , Rättyä Jouni
Published: November 2023

Let $$\omega $$
ω
and $$\nu $$
ν
be radial weights on the unit disc of the complex plane, and denote $$\sigma =\omega ^{p'} \nu ^{-\frac{p'}{p}}$$

σ
=

ω

p
′

ν

-

p
′

p

and $$\omega _x =\int _0^1\,s^x \omega (s)\,ds$$

ω
x

=

∫
0
1

s
x

ω

(
s
)

d
s

for all $$1\le x<\infty $$

1
≤
x
<
∞

. Consider the one-weight inequality $$\begin{aligned} \Vert P_\omega (f)\Vert _{L^p_\nu }\le C\Vert f\Vert _{L^p_\nu },\quad 1
1$$

K
>
1

. In addition, an analogous result for the one weight inequality $$\Vert P_\omega (f)\Vert _{D^p_{\nu ,k}} \le C\Vert f\Vert _{L^p_\nu }$$

‖

P
ω

(
f
)

‖

D

ν
,
k

p

≤
C

‖
f
‖

L
ν
p

, where $$\begin{aligned} \Vert f \Vert _{D^p_{\nu , k}}^p =\sum \limits _{j=0}^{k-1}\vert f^{(j)}(0)\vert ^p +\int _{{\mathbb {D}}} \vert f^{(k)}(z)\vert ^p (1-\vert z \vert )^{kp} \nu (z)\,dA(z)<\infty , \quad k\in {\mathbb {N}}, \end{aligned}$$

‖
f
‖

D

ν
,
k

p

p

=

∑

j
=
0

k
-
1

|

f

(
j
)

(
0
)

|

p

+

∫
D

|

f

(
k
)

(
z
)

|

p

(
1
-
|
z
|
)

kp

ν

(
z
)

d
A

(
z
)

<
∞
,

k
∈
N
,

is established. The inequality ($$\dagger $$
†
) is further studied by using the necessary condition $$D_p(\omega ,\nu )<\infty $$

D
p

(
ω
,
ν
)

<
∞

in the case of the exponential type weights $$\nu (r)=\exp \left( -\frac{\alpha }{(1-r^l)^{\beta }} \right) $$

ν

(
r
)

=
exp

-

α

(
1
-

r
l

)

β

and $$\omega (r)= \exp \left( -\frac{ \widetilde{\alpha }}{(1-r^{\widetilde{l}})^{\widetilde{\beta }}} \right) $$

ω

(
r
)

=
exp

-

α
~

(
1
-

r

l
~

)

β
~

, where $$0<\alpha , \, \widetilde{\alpha }, \, l, \, \widetilde{l}<\infty $$

0
<
α
,

α
~

,

l
,

l
~

<
∞

and $$0<\beta , \, \widetilde{\beta }\le 1$$

0
<
β
,

β
~

≤
1

.
On the benefits of structured composite electrodes in solid oxide cells
Authors: Budáč Daniel , Carda Michal , Adamová Nela , Sádecká Monika , Paidar Martin , Híveš Ján
Published: November 2023

Functional composites of electronic and ionic conductors are the backbone of oxygen and fuel electrodes in solid oxide cells. A typical oxygen electrode is fabricated from a lanthanum strontium manganite and yttria-stabilized zirconia (LSM-YSZ) composite, while the fuel electrode is based on a Ni-YSZ cermet. While the composite materials exhibit enhanced kinetic capabilities, the electron-conductive phases, i.e., LSM and Ni, exhibit high electrical conductivity. The goal of this study was to develop an electrode layout with enhanced performance by tailoring the benefits of both, the composites and the single-phase electron conductors, within individual electrodes. The electrodes were fabricated in a two-layer layout with different thicknesses by screen-printing: composite material layer, electron-conductive material. The results suggested that the presence of YSZ is essential in the entire electrode body of a fuel electrode for enhanced performance as it increases the triple phase boundary length, as well as mechanical stability by forming a scaffold for the Ni network. Hence, for the optimal performance a thick layer of Ni-YSZ composite is required. On the contrary, the optimal oxygen electrode requires only very thin layer of the composite, otherwise the presence of YSZ is retarding the electrode’s performance.

Graphical abstract
Modelling rainfall-induced landslides at a regional scale, a machine learning based approach
Authors: Magrì Stefania , Solimano Monica , Delogu Fabio , Del Giudice Tania , Quagliati Mauro , Cicoria Michele , Silvestro Francesco
Published: November 2023

In Italy, rainfall represents the most common triggering factor for landslides; thus, many Italian Regional Departments of Civil Protection are setting up warning systems based on rainfall recordings. Common methods are mainly based on empirical relationships that provide the rainfall thresholds above which the occurrence of landslide phenomena is likely to be expected. In recent years, the use of machine learning approaches has gained popularity in landslide susceptibility analysis and prediction. To support the operational early warning system of Liguria Civil Protection Department for landslides hazard, we propose the implementation of a polynomial Kernel regularized least squares regression (KRLS) algorithm, for predicting the daily occurrence of shallow landslides in the five Alert Zones in Liguria (North Western Italy). The model provides an estimate of the number of landslides associated with the set of three different hydrological features, also used for the Hydrological Assessment procedure: the soil moisture, the accumulated precipitation over 12 h and the precipitation peak over 3 h. Results of the model are converted to an Alert Scenario of landslide occurrence, based on the magnitude of the expected event and identified according to the National and Regional legislation (Regional Civil Protection guidelines D.G.R. n. 1116, 23/12/2020). The performance of the predictive model (e.g. accuracy of 93%) is deemed satisfactory and the methodology is considered a valuable support to the operational early warning system of Liguria Civil Protection Department. The choice of predictive variables allows, in future development, the values obtained from historical data to be replaced by those obtained from meteorological forecast models, introducing the use of the developed model in the operational forecasting chain.
Modeling Interactions Between Multivariate Learner Characteristics and Interventions: a Person-Centered Approach
Authors: Tetzlaff Leonard , Edelsbrunner Peter , Schmitterer Alexandra , Hartmann Ulrike , Brod Garvin
Published: November 2023

Demonstrating the differential effectiveness of instructional approaches for learners is difficult because learners differ on multiple dimensions. The present study tests a person-centered approach to investigating differential effectiveness, in this case of reading instruction. In N = 517 German third-grade students, latent profile analysis identified four subgroups that differed across multiple characteristics consistent with the simple view of reading: poor decoders, poor comprehenders, poor readers, and good readers. Over a school year, different instructional foci showed differential effectiveness for students in these different profiles. An instructional focus on vocabulary primarily benefited good readers at the expense of poor decoders and poor comprehenders, while a focus on advanced reading abilities benefitted poor comprehenders at the expense of poor decoders and good readers. These findings are in contrast to those obtained by multiple regression, which, focusing on only one learner characteristic at a time, would have suggested different and potentially misleading implications for instruction. This study provides initial evidence for the advantages of a person-centered approach to examining differential effectiveness.
An Exploratory Study of Students’ Perceptions on the Use of Animals in Medical and Veterinary Medical Undergraduate Education
Authors: Baptista Cláudia S. , Oliveira Pedro , Ribeiro Laura
Published: November 2023

Animals are frequently utilized as a teaching-learning tool in multiple educational settings. It is, therefore, important to understand what students think about this topic, in particular medical and veterinary students as “life caregivers” and competent people for a dynamic and responsible social intervention. In this context, this research aims to characterize and disseminate a set of issues related to animal welfare/wellbeing in higher education in the North of Portugal, particularly as regards the teaching of students of the Integrated Master in Medicine (MIM) and Veterinary Medicine (MIMV). After ethical approval, a survey was delivered on paper to 180 undergraduate MIM (n = 100) and MIMV (n = 80) students. After collecting 139 questionnaires partially or fully completed, with varying response rates for each question, it was concluded that most of the students consider that animal experimentation is ethically acceptable when the benefits balance the harms and assuming that refinement of animal procedures is warranted; they also agree to the establishment, maintenance and performance of animal procedures solely for educational purposes as a way of ensuring optimal acquisition of theoretical knowledge, attitudes and behaviors and technical skills. Nevertheless, it is the responsibility of teachers to explore and implement pedagogical methodologies thar are equally effective but more humane and compassionate towards sentient living beings.
Influence of elastic deformation of the blade on the flow field in the blade cascade
Authors: Vomáčko Václav , Šidlof Petr , Šimurda David , Pustka Martin
Published: November 2023

Flutter of turbine and compressor blades represents a serious problem for designers of large turbomachines. In real machines, measurements of flutter conditions are hardly possible. Therefore, tests on linear blade cascades with movable blades play important role in investigations of flutter. In the current research, a simple blade cascade for controlled flutter testing was developed. The blades in this test rig undergo high-frequency oscillations which induce inertial forces. The influence of the elastic deformation of the blade on the flow field is studied in this work by means of experiments and numerical simulations. First, the computational and experimental modal analysis was done to obtain eigenfrequencies and modal damping. The deformed shape of the blade due to high-frequency oscillation was acquired by structural transient analysis. The influence of the elastic deformation on the flow field was then studied by CFD analysis for two incidence angles both for the deformed (elastic) and undeformed (idealized rigid) blade. Flow field was only very weakly distorted due to the blade elastic deformation. The total torque induced by aerodynamic and inertial forces was evaluated. The inertial loading is an order of magnitude larger than loading due to fluid flow.
Patients with periodontitis might increase the risk of urologic cancers: a bidirectional two-sample Mendelian randomization study
Authors: Li Bojia , Lin Yifei , Yang Yong , Wang Zeng , Shi Rui , Zheng Tao , Liao Banghua , Liao Ga , Huang Jin
Published: November 2023

Background

Numerous observational epidemiological studies have reported a bidirectional relationship between periodontitis and urological cancers. However, the causal link between these two phenotypes remains uncertain. This study aimed to examine the bidirectional causal association between periodontitis and four types of urological tumors, specifically kidney cancer (KC), prostate cancer (PC), bladder cancer (BC), and testis cancer (TC).

Methods

Based on large-scale genome-wide association study (GWAS) data, we utilized the two-sample Mendelian randomization (MR) approach to evaluate causal relationships between periodontitis and urological cancers. Several MR methods covering various consistency assumptions were applied in this study, including contamination mixture and Robust Adjusted Profile Score to obtain robust results. Summary-level data of individuals with European ancestry were extracted from the UK Biobank, the Kaiser GERA cohorts, and the FinnGen consortium.

Results

Our findings revealed significant positive genetic correlations between periodontitis and kidney cancer (OR 1.287; 95% CI 1.04, 1.594; P = 0.020). We did not find a significant association of periodontitis on prostate cancer, bladder cancer, and testis cancer. In reverse MR, no significant results were observed supporting the effect of urologic cancers on periodontitis (all P > 0.05).

Conclusion

Our study provides the evidence of a potential causal relationship between periodontitis and kidney cancer. However, large-scale studies are warranted to confirm and elucidate the underlying mechanisms of this association.
Utilization of microbial fuel cells as a dual approach for landfill leachate treatment and power production: a review
Authors: Ishaq Aliyu , Said Mohd Ismid Mohd , Azman Shamila Binti , Dandajeh Aliyu Adamu , Lemar Gul Sanga , Jagun Zainab Toyin
Published: November 2023

Landfill leachate, which is a complicated organic sewage water, presents substantial dangers to human health and the environment if not properly handled. Electrochemical technology has arisen as a promising strategy for effectively mitigating contaminants in landfill leachate. In this comprehensive review, we explore various theoretical and practical aspects of methods for treating landfill leachate. This exploration includes examining their performance, mechanisms, applications, associated challenges, existing issues, and potential strategies for enhancement, particularly in terms of cost-effectiveness. In addition, this critique provides a comparative investigation between these treatment approaches and the utilization of diverse kinds of microbial fuel cells (MFCs) in terms of their effectiveness in treating landfill leachate and generating power. The examination of these technologies also extends to their use in diverse global contexts, providing insights into operational parameters and regional variations. This extensive assessment serves the primary goal of assisting researchers in understanding the optimal methods for treating landfill leachate and comparing them to different types of MFCs. It offers a valuable resource for the large-scale design and implementation of processes that ensure both the safe treatment of landfill leachate and the generation of electricity. The review not only provides an overview of the current state of landfill leachate treatment but also identifies key challenges and sets the stage for future research directions, ultimately contributing to more sustainable and effective solutions in the management of this critical environmental issue.
Drivers of divergent trends in tropospheric ozone hotspots in Spain, 2008–2019
Authors: Massagué Jordi , Escudero Miguel , Alastuey Andrés , Monfort Eliseo , Gangoiti Gotzon , Petetin Hervé , García-Pando Carlos Pérez , Querol Xavier
Published: November 2023

This study aimed to investigate the causes of contrasting ozone (O3) trends in Spanish O3 hotspots between 2008 and 2019, as documented in recent studies. The analysis involved data on key O3 precursors, such as nitrogen oxides (NOx) and volatile organic compounds (VOCs), among other species, along with meteorological parameters associated with O3. The dataset comprised ground-level and satellite observations, emissions inventory estimates, and meteorological reanalysis.

The results suggest that the increasing O3 trends observed in the Madrid area were mostly due to major decreases in NOx emissions from the road transport sector in this urban VOC-limited environment, as well as variations in meteorological parameters conducive to O3 production. Conversely, the decreasing O3 trends in the Sevilla area likely resulted from a decrease in NOx emissions in a peculiar urban NOx-limited regime caused by substantial VOC contributions from a large upwind petrochemical area. Unchanged O3 concentrations in other NOx-limited hotspots may be attributed to the stagnation of emissions from sectors other than road transport, coupled with increased emissions from certain sectors, likely due to the economic recovery from the 2008 financial crisis, and the absence of meteorological variations favorable to O3 production.

In this study, the parameters influencing O3 varied distinctively across the different hotspots, emphasizing the significance of adopting an independent regional/local approach for O3 mitigation planning. Overall, our findings provide valuable insights into the causes of contrasting O3 trends in different regions of Spain, which can be used as a basis for guiding future measures to mitigate O3 levels.
Towards the identification of the volatile organic compounds emitted by the coatings used in a car factory painting line
Authors: Moura Pedro Catalão , Santos Fausto , Fujão Carlos , Vassilenko Valentina
Published: November 2023

One of the main reasons for the degradation of working conditions is the lack of air quality. It is known that indoor air contaminants pose a risk to both the human organism and the environment, which constitutes a challenge for employers and major industries. A car factory painting line is an evident example of a work location in which the employers must be especially aware and concerned with the employees' health. Since the coatings are the main VOCs-emitting source, this work studied the analytes emitted by four primers, 17 basecoats and one varnish used in a car factory of a world-renowned automotive brand, with gas chromatography-ion mobility spectrometry (GC-IMS), as a way of identifying all the coating-borne VOCs that can be emitted to the indoor air. The variability of the collected data was assessed, and the repeatability of the results proved the suitability of GC-IMS for this type of study. Among primers, inks and varnish, 45 VOCs were accurately identified using an exclusively developed database of compounds. The presence of the identified analytes in the composition of the coatings represents the potentiality of being emitted to the indoor air of the factory and, consequently, denotes their eventual toxicity for the employees of the painting line. These results represent a step forward in the assessment of the panting line work conditions, so eventual consequences to the employees’ health are theoretically discussed; nonetheless, further studies aim to examine air samples of the factory and evaluate the work conditions and actual consequences to the employees that must be developed.
Tauroursodeoxycholic Acid Inhibited Apoptosis and Oxidative Stress in H2O2-Induced BMSC Death via Modulating the Nrf-2 Signaling Pathway: the Therapeutic Implications in a Rat Model of Spinal Cord Injury
Authors: Weng Jiaxian , Wang Le , Wang Kai , Su Haitao , Luo Dan , Yang Haimei , Wen Yaqian , Wu Qiduan , Li Xing
Published: November 2023

Spinal cord injury (SCI) is a prevalent and significant injury to the central nervous system, resulting in severe consequences. This injury is characterized by motor, sensory, and excretory dysfunctions below the affected spinal segment. Transplantation of bone marrow mesenchymal stem cells (BMSCs) has emerged as a potential treatment for SCI. However, the low survival as well as the differentiation rates of BMSCs within the spinal cord microenvironment significantly limit their therapeutic efficiency. Tauroursodeoxycholic acid (TUDCA), an active ingredient found in bear bile, has demonstrated its neuroprotective, antioxidant, and antiapoptotic effects on SCI. Thus, the present study was aimed to study the possible benefits of combining TUDCA with BMSC transplantation using an animal model of SCI. The results showed that TUDCA significantly enhanced BMSC viability and reduced apoptosis (assessed by Annexin V-FITC, TUNEL, Bax, Bcl-2, and Caspase-3) as well as oxidative stress (assessed by ROS, GSH, SOD, and MDA) both in vitro and in vivo. Additionally, TUDCA accelerated tissue regeneration (assessed by HE, Nissl, MAP2, MBP, TUJ1, and GFAP) and improved functional recovery (assessed by BBB score) following BMSC transplantation in SCI. These effects were mediated via the Nrf-2 signaling pathway, as evidenced by the upregulation of Nrf-2, NQO-1, and HO-1 expression levels. Overall, these results indicate that TUDCA could serve as a valuable adjunct to BMSC transplantation therapy for SCI, potentially enhancing its therapeutic efficacy.
Multifaceted Roles of AFG3L2, a Mitochondrial ATPase in Relation to Neurological Disorders
Authors: Ghosh Dastidar Ranita , Banerjee Saradindu , Lal Piyush Behari , Ghosh Dastidar Somasish
Published: November 2023

AFG3L2 is a zinc metalloprotease and an ATPase localized in an inner mitochondrial membrane involved in mitochondrial quality control of several nuclear- and mitochondrial-encoded proteins. Mutations in AFG3L2 lead to diseases like slow progressive ataxia, which is a neurological disorder. This review delineates the cellular functions of AFG3L2 and its dysfunction that leads to major clinical outcomes, which include spinocerebellar ataxia type 28, spastic ataxia type 5, and optic atrophy type 12. It summarizes all relevant AFG3L2 mutations associated with the clinical outcomes to understand the detailed mechanisms attributable to its structure-related multifaceted roles in proteostasis and quality control. We face early diagnostic challenges of ataxia and optic neuropathy due to asymptomatic parents and variable clinical manifestations due to heterozygosity/homozygosity of AFG3L2 mutations. This review intends to promote AFG3L2 as a putative prognostic or diagnostic marker.

Graphical Abstract

Functions, mutations, and clinical manifestations in AFG3L2, a mitochondrial AAA + ATPases.
Differentiation of self in adolescents: measurement invariance analysis across six Spanish-speaking countries
Authors: Gallego Ana , Schweer-Collins Maria L. , Osorio Alfonso , Rodríguez-González Martiño
Published: November 2023

This article examines the measurement equivalence of the Spanish Differentiation of Self Inventory for Adolescents (S-DSI-A) in adolescent populations across Spanish-speaking countries (N = 5,552), including Argentina, Chile, Ecuador, Mexico, Peru, and Spain. Within the Bowen family system theory, Differentiation of self is one of the most recognized constructs to systemic researchers and couple and family therapy practitioners, with implications in relationship adjustment or mental and physical health. The study uses multigroup confirmatory factor analysis (MGCFA) to test for configural, metric, and scalar invariance of the S-DSI-A across the six samples. The results indicate that the S-DSI-A demonstrates configural and metric invariance, but scalar invariance is not achieved. These findings have implications for cross-cultural research on differentiation of self and highlight the importance of considering measurement equivalence when comparing results across different populations. Specifically, our results suggest that the S-DSI-A reliably assesses the latent variables of Emotional Reactivity (ER) and Emotional Cutoff (EC) uniformly across Spanish-speaking nations, but the mean scores for the ER and EC lack cross-sample comparability.