bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Advances in Ultrafast Laser Structuring of Materials at the Nanoscale
Authors: Stoian R.
Published: December 2024

The capability of ultrashort laser pulses to deliver high precision and high yield processing in laser material micro-structuring is already on the verge of industrial uptake. Whether on surfaces or in the bulk, sub-micron processing capabilities are equally approaching a significant level of process maturity, qualifying laser technology for advanced applications in micro- and nano-fabrication. Applications in optics, energy, biology, electronics, and mechanics depend on the accessible fabrication scale. A question about the resolution limits of an ultrafast laser manufacturing process can thus be posed. What are the physical phenomena that enable confinement of light to the smallest scales? New strategies of ultrafast laser structuring are emerging nowadays that go well beyond the current optical resolutions. Harnessing the ensemble of properties of light, shaping phase and amplitude, manipulating polarization, synthesizing complex spectral fields, and mixing far and near-field components, with strategies for flexible geometries in 2D and 3D, current ultrafast laser processing techniques can reach resolutions below 100 nm, paving the way toward super-resolved laser processing, well into the nanoscale. The chapter will review several relevant tendencies in extreme laser nanostructuring on surfaces and in the bulk underlining physical mechanisms and pointing out promising emerging applications.
Recent Advances and Prospects in Selective Laser Sintering (SLS) and Melting (SLM) and Multiphoton Lithography for 3D Printing
Authors: Joralmon Dylan , Tang Tengteng , Jayant Lakshmi , Yoo Minju , Li Xiangjia
Published: December 2024

Laser based additive manufacturing (AM) methods, that incorporate a high-density laser to sinter, melt, or solidify the desired material, have developed into an ideal technology for the design and fabrication of robust and highly customizable functional devices which aim to address key challenges in the aerospace, biomedical, and defense sectors. Recent advancements in powder bed fusion (PBF) approaches, such as selective laser sintering (SLS) and melting (SLM) have significantly improved the range of printable materials, minimum feature size, and microstructure evolution, endowing precise control over the physical properties of the final printed part. Furthermore, studies on novel photoresist materials and laser scanning strategies used during multiphoton lithography (MPL) approaches indicated that nanoscale spatial resolution could be achieved, allowing for the design of intricate biomedical implants or smooth optical devices. This chapter focuses on an extensive review of current research being conducted on laser-based AM technologies highlighting the current compatible materials and applications of SLS, SLM, and MLP printed functional devices. Future perspectives and notable challenges of the laser-based AM technologies are discussed in detail with the purpose of identifying critical research areas for each methodology.
Nonlinear Optical Techniques for Nanomaterials
Authors: Sankar Pranitha , Philip Reji
Published: December 2024

This chapter aims to provide a comprehensive overview of the latest developments in nonlinear optical techniques applied to nanomaterials, with a focus on recent advancements and future possibilities. Nanomaterials, a pivotal class characterized by high surface-to-volume ratios, increased reactivity, and distinct mechanical, optical, and electrical properties in comparison to their bulk counterparts, have been the subject of extensive research for many years. Their unique characteristics render them promising in various fields, including electronics, energy, catalysis, biomedicine, and photonics. Among the prominent research areas in nanomaterials, nonlinear optics stands out, encompassing the interaction of intense light with matter. Nonlinear optical techniques facilitate the investigation of the interaction between light and matter in the nonlinear regime, allowing the observation of various phenomena, such as frequency conversion, nonlinear fluorescence, nonlinear refraction, and nonlinear absorption. These techniques not only enable precise exploration of the optical responses of nanomaterials, but also pave the way for the development of innovative applications in areas such as electronics, sensing, and photonics.
LIBS for Characterizing Nanomaterials
Authors: Dutouquet Christophe , Hermann Jörg
Published: December 2024

Nano-objects, their aggregates and their agglomerates are currently used in industry to manufacture materials with advanced functionalities. Their use requires new tools in diverse fields, such as workplace surveillance or process control. Indeed, little is known yet concerning the adverse effects these objects may have on human health and the environment. There is therefore a need to design tools allowing their in situ real-time detection and characterization during the manufacturing process. In this context, Laser-Induced Breakdown Spectroscopy (LIBS) is seen as a potential candidate for these applications. It was applied to the detection of carbon nanotube balls for workplace surveillance and to the compositional analysis of silicon carbide (SiCx) nanopowders for process control. For this latter issue, the so-called calibration-free LIBS analysis based on modelling of the laser-induced plasma emission spectrum proved to be a real asset. A new method for particle analysis has been tested. It consists of trapping particles in a radio-frequency plasma discharge for LIBS analyses. Such an approach presents several advantages further discussed in this chapter.
Transient Absorption Spectroscopy: Probing the Ultrafast Dynamics in Nanomaterial Complex Systems
Authors: Jia Menghui , Kong Jie , Zhou Huangmei , Chen Jinquan , Zhang Sanjun , Zhou Meng
Published: December 2024

Over the past two decades transient absorption spectroscopy has provided a powerful tool to unravel the excited state dynamics of nanomaterials, which has greatly propelled the development of nanoscience, as mechanistic studies allow a comprehensive and in-depth understanding of the structure–function relationships and various interactions in nanomaterial complex systems. In this chapter, we present an overview of transient absorption spectroscopy, with focus on the principles, experimental setup, data acquisition and general data analysis. The chapter continues with a detailed discussion of the ultrafast dynamics of two nanomaterial complex systems (colloidal metal nanoparticles and metal nanoclusters) probed by transient absorption spectroscopy. We attempt to convey how the application of transient absorption spectroscopy can answer many of the fundamental questions about the origin and interactions of these fascinating nanomaterials in nanoscience.
Pyridine oxide-decorated covalent organic framework for catalytic allylation of aromatic aldehydes with allyl(trichloro)silane
Authors: Wang Jian-Cheng , Pan Ru , Yang Wen-Ting , Chen Zhi , Du Jia-Qi , Kan Jing-Lan , Dong Yu-Bin
Published: December 2024

We present a novel pyridine oxide-COF catalyst, synthesized directly from a monomer containing pyridine oxide with its partner via imine condensation, which exhibits remarkable efficacy in promoting the allylation reaction of aromatic aldehydes.
Accurate prelithiation of lithium ion battery SiOx anodes towards improved initial coulombic efficiency
Authors: Hu Cuicui , Zhang Minghao , Zhou Wenbo , Liu Chenyu , Lin Zhan
Published: December 2024

Accurate prelithiation realized by ball-milling with LiF for SiOx anodes facilitates the formation of a LiF-rich SEI. The SiOx@3%LiF||NCM622 full cell demonstrates excellent cycling stability.
Predicting miscibility in binary compounds: a machine learning and genetic algorithm study
Authors: Feng Chiwen , Liang Yanwei , Sun Jiaying , Wang Renhai , Sun Huaijun , Dong Huafeng
Published: December 2024

This study used atomic-level data and machine learning to predict the miscibility of binary systems, analyzed key factors affecting miscibility, and discovered three new thermodynamically stable phases using a genetic algorithm.
Surface passivation strategies for CsPbBr3 quantum dots aiming at nonradiative suppression and enhancement of electroluminescent light-emitting diodes
Authors: Chen Weiwei , Hu Lin , Wang Yi , Huang Lei , Wang Zhen , Tang Xiaosheng
Published: December 2024

A green perovskite light-emitting diode was prepared using 2-phenethylammonium bromide passivated CsPbBr3 quantum dots as the emission layer.
Giant {Mo132} polyoxometalate isolated with diverse organic cations: a systematic proton conductivity study
Authors: Unnikrishnan Parvathy M. , Basu Olivia , Nasani Rajendar , Das Samar K.
Published: December 2024

Four new water-insoluble {Mo132}-based compounds: His-Mo132, Py-Mo132, Bpy-Mo132 and MV-Mo132, have been synthesized and characterized and their proton conductivity properties are studied.
Atom-economical and workup-free multiparticipation of p-TsOH in yne-ynamide skeletal reshuffle: access to regiospecific, chemospecific, and stereospecific (E)-alkenyl sulfonate/ketone-tethered indoles
Authors: Mutra Mohana Reddy , Chandana T. L. , Wang Jeh-Jeng
Published: December 2024

This work introduces a workup-free p-TsOH-initiated yne-ynamide skeletal rearrangement process for the synthesis of stereospecific E-alkenyl sulfonate-tethered and ketone-tethered indoles via heterolytic N–Csp bond cleavage.
Fundamental understanding of fluorophenol-derived dual organocatalysts for ring-opening polymerization of lactide
Authors: Fengzhen Guo , Dai Jiawen , Cao Shaoju , Yin Yaling , Li Zhenjiang , Sun Jie , Huang Jin , Guo Kai
Published: December 2024

The integral investigation on metal-free catalytic ring-opening polymerization of lactide facilitates the structural understanding of the reaction.
Organocatalytic SuFEx click reactions of SO2F2
Authors: Xie Yu , Lin Muze , Wei Zhihang , Cai Zhihua , He Lin , Du Guangfen
Published: December 2024

Organocatalytic SuFEx reactions of gaseous SO2F2 have been developed to assemble fluorosulfates and sulfamoyl fluorides in good to high yields.
Stacked-ring aromaticity from the viewpoint of the effective number of π-electrons
Authors: Sugimori Ryota , Okada Kenji , Kishi Ryohei , Kitagawa Yasutaka
Published: December 2024

High-level quantum chemical calculations for closely stacked π-dimers of antiaromatic molecules have revealed that the appearance of the double-triplet [1(T1T1)] character is critical to connecting the stacked-ring aromaticity with Baird's rule.
The potential of perovskite solar cell-thermoelectric tandem devices
Authors: Lou Zhaoyu , Ju Jiaqi , Li Hao , Wang Zhiping
Published: December 2024

This modeling study demonstrates the potential of PSC-TE systems to achieve higher PCE and steadier TD in real-world conditions, especially in specific situations, underscoring the importance of optimizing these integrated systems.
Integrative metabolome and transcriptome analyses provide insights into PHGDH in colon cancer organoids
Authors: Chen Lin , Dai Zhihui , Zhang Yanfei , Sheng Huichao , Hu Bin , Du Jinlin , Chang Jie , Xu Wenxia , Hu Yuqing
Published: December 2024

As a rate-limiting enzyme in the endogenous serine de novo synthesis pathway, 3-Phosphoglycerate dehydrogenase (PHGDH) has been widely concerned about its role in a variety of tumors including colon cancer and the development of inhibitors. In our previous study, we studied PHGDH in colon cancer cell lines. However, with the development of personalized therapy, we realized that in scientific research, two-dimensional cell lines lost a lot of original characteristic information during long-term culture, and the results obtained may not be enough to support the conclusion. Patient-derived tumor organoids maintain genomic stability and make up for information missing from cell lines due to monoclonal growth. Therefore, in our study, a colon cancer organoid with high PHGDH expression was selected and analyzed for transcriptomic and metabolomic changes through targeted inhibition of PHGDH. The results showed that inhibition of PHGDH significantly inhibited the proliferation of colon cancer organoids. The transcriptome, metabolome, and combined omics analysis showed that the changes in colon cancer organoids after inhibition of PHGDH were mainly involved in PRSS1 and PRSS56, steroid hormone biosynthesis, phenylalanine metabolism, ascorbate and aldarate metabolism, and tyrosine metabolism. In our study, the role of PHGDH in serine metabolism in colon cancer organoids was clarified by multi-omics analysis to provide new knowledge for an in-depth understanding of serine metabolism and PHGDH function in colon cancer.
Fast optical variability in supergiant X-ray binaries
Authors: Di Filippantonio D. , Reig P. , Fabregat J.
Published: December 2024

Context. Recent studies of massive stars using high-precision space photometry have revealed that they commonly exhibit stochastic low-frequency variability.

Aims. The main goal of this work is to investigate the fast photometric variability of the optical counterparts to supergiant X-ray binaries and to compare the general patterns of this variability with that observed in the Galactic population of other early-type stars.

Methods. We selected a sample of 14 high-mass X-ray binaries with supergiant companions observed by the Transiting Exoplanet Survey Satellite (TESS). We also studied 4 Be/X-ray binaries with persistent X-ray emission for comparison. The TESS light curves were created from the full-frame images using the Lightkurve package. The light curves were background subtracted and corrected for scattered light and instrumental effects. Standard Fourier analysis was used to obtain the periodograms. We used a phenomenological model to fit the amplitude spectra and derive the best-fit parameters.

Results. All sources exhibit fast aperiodic light variations. The shape of the periodogram is well described by a red noise component at intermediate frequencies (∼1 − 10 d−1). At lower frequencies, the noise level flattens, while at higher frequencies the periodogram is dominated by white noise. We find that the patterns of variability of the massive companions in supergiant X-ray binaries agree with those of single early-type evolved stars in terms of the general shape of the periodograms. However, they exhibit higher amplitude at low frequencies and lower characteristic frequencies than those of Be/X-ray binaries. Unlike Be/X-ray binaries, supergiant X-ray binaries exhibit a total lack of coherent signals at high frequencies. Most sources have been analyzed over multiple TESS sectors, spanning a duration of 4 years. We do not find any significant variation over time in the low-frequency variability characteristics.

Conclusions. This study reveals that stochastic low-frequency variability is a very common, if not ubiquitous, feature intrinsic to supergiant optical companions in X-ray binaries. The phenomenology of this variability is similar to that of single early-type supergiant stars.
Cancer Classification Using Pattern Recognition and Computer Vision Techniques
Authors: Haddou Bouazza Sara , Haddou Bouazza Jihad
Published: December 2024

The rapid advancement of DNA microarray technology has significantly contributed to the classification of various cancers, particularly leukemia. However, the high-dimensional nature of gene expression data presents challenges such as data noise and irrelevant features, leading to reduced prediction accuracy. This study proposes a novel Hybrid Filter-Wrapper Gene Selection (HFWGS) method that integrates filter-based techniques (Signal-to-Noise Ratio, Correlation Coefficient, and ReliefF) with wrapper-based approaches to enhance feature selection for leukemia classification. Additionally, a Hybrid Statistical-Gene Voting (HSGV) approach was implemented to further refine classification accuracy. A comparative analysis of classifiers, including K-Nearest Neighbors (KNN), Support Vector Machines (SVM), and Linear Discriminant Analysis (LDA), demonstrated that the HFWGS method consistently improved classification performance, achieving 100% accuracy with a reduced subset of genes. The proposed methods provide an efficient framework for optimizing gene selection and improving diagnostic accuracy in leukemia, paving the way for more targeted therapeutic interventions.
Evaluating Machine Learning Models for Prostate Cancer Classification Using Gene Expression Profiles from DNA Microarrays
Authors: Haddou Bouazza Sara , Haddou Bouazza Jihad
Published: December 2024

This study evaluates various machine learning models for classifying prostate cancer using gene expression profiles from DNA microarrays. Due to the high dimensionality of these datasets, effective dimensionality reduction through feature selection is essential to identify and remove redundant genes. We applied multiple feature selection methods, including Signal to Noise Ratio (SNR), ReliefF, Correlation Coefficient (CC), Mutual Information (MI), and several others. These methods were combined with classifiers such as K Nearest Neighbor (KNN), Support Vector Machine (SVM), Linear Discriminant Analysis (LDA), Decision Tree Classifier (DTC), Naïve Bayes (NB), and Artificial Neural Network (ANN). Our results demonstrated that the best combination was the Signal to Noise Ratio with Linear Discriminant Analysis, achieving a classification accuracy of 95% using only six genes. This study underscores the importance of effective feature selection and classifier combination for precise and efficient prostate cancer diagnosis, paving the way for improved personalized healthcare strategies. Future work will focus on validating these findings with larger datasets and exploring advanced machine learning techniques to enhance classification performance further.
Smart Cities: Catalyst for Sustainability and Health
Authors: Grum Bojan , Kobal Grum Darja
Published: December 2024

The concept of smart cities has gained momentum as a means to address urban challenges and improve the quality of life for residents. This article delves into the intersection of smart city initiatives, sustainability practices, and public health outcomes. Drawing on research and case studies, we explore how smart city technologies and strategies can promote environmental sustainability, enhance public health, and create more livable urban environments. We are interested in whether there are statistically significant differences between participants of different ages regarding the observed parameters related to the mentioned components. The rapid urbanization and population growth experienced globally have led to significant challenges in managing resources, infrastructure, and the overall well-being of citizens. In response to these challenges, the concept of “smart cities” has emerged as a promising approach to address sustainability and health concerns.
Disease prediction using NLP techniques
Authors: Hamza Ouabiba , Farah Sniba
Published: December 2024

This paper explores the application of the T5 (Text-To-Text Transfer Transformer) model Originating from the groundbreaking “Attention Is All You Need” concept, fine-tuned on a medical dataset to predict diseases and symptoms from unstructured medical reports. By leveraging Natural Language Processing (NLP), the system offers automated analysis, enabling quicker and more accurate diagnoses based on symptoms provided by users. The fine- tuning process involved training the T5 model to adapt to the specific language and context of medical texts. The model’s performance is evaluated based on its ability to detect and predict medical conditions from user inputs.
Design of an Intelligent Energy Management Prototype for an Electric Lighting Network on a Raspberry Pi Board
Authors: Jouahri Mohammed Amine , Moukhtari Manal , Oulhaj Nabil , Khimouj Mounir , Tajer Abdelouahed , Boulghasoul Zakaria
Published: December 2024

Efficient management of street lighting is crucial for cities seeking to reduce their energy consumption and greenhouse gas emissions. This paper proposes an innovative approach that dynamically adjusts the brightness of streetlights according to two key factors: traffic density and weather conditions. Traffic density is assessed in real time by an image processing system using the YOLOv8 algorithm, which identifies and counts vehicles captured by the cameras. At the same time, the level of cloud cover is measured by an LDR photosensor connected to a Raspberry Pi, which analyzes the ambient light intensity. These data are transmitted to the Raspberry Pi via the MQTT protocol, where a neural network model, trained beforehand, predicts the optimal operating cycle of the street lamps to adjust their brightness in real time. The results show that this method, combining machine vision, IoT and artificial intelligence, delivers significant energy savings without compromising user safety, offering a promising solution for modern cities.
IoT-Based Pest Detection in Agriculture Using Raspberry Pi and YOLOv10m for Precision Farming
Authors: Zarboubi Mohamed , Bellout Abdelaaziz , Chabaa Samira , Dliou Azzedine , Zeroual Abdelouhab
Published: December 2024

The agricultural sector confronts challenges arising from climate change and evolving global trade, emphasizing the critical need for effective pest management to sustain crop yields. This study introduces an innovative pest detection and monitoring approach, centering on the Codling Moth (Cydia pomonella) as a model insect. The system seamlessly integrates a Raspberry Pi-based trap, the YOLOv10m (You Only Look Once) deep learning model, and the Ubidots IoT platform. The YOLOv10m model, renowned for its real-time object detection capabilities, undergoes training to identify Codling Moths in images captured by the trap. Subsequently, the model-generated data is transmitted to the Ubidots platform, facilitating remote real-time monitoring. The Ubidots dashboard encompasses features like data analysis, historical trends, and notification alerts for elevated pest densities. Results underscore the YOLOv10m model’s impressive 89% confidence level in detecting Codling Moths. The Ubidots platform enhances overall system performance, enabling farmers to monitor pest activity and intervene promptly. This integrated system fosters informed decision-making, curtails excessive pesticide use, and advocates sustainable farming practices. Ultimately, this research makes a substantial contribution to precision agriculture by harnessing the synergies of deep learning and IoT technologies, delivering a dependable and cost-effective solution for managing pest populations in agriculture.
Étude préliminaire du traitement de l’inversé d’occlusion antérieur par appareil amovible
Authors: Lipszyc Noémie
Published: December 2024

Introduction : l’ intérêt de ce travail est d’étudier l’effet d’une plaque amovible munie de plans de surélévation bilatéraux et de vérins d’expansion antéro-postérieure et transversale chez les patients présentant un inversé d’occlusion antérieur.

Matériels et Méthodes : nous avons réalisé une étude préliminaire basée sur une étude de trois cas. Le dispositif utilisé est une plaque amovible avec deux vérins, un dans le sens transversal et un autre dans le sens antéro-postérieur, et deux plans de surélévation bilatéraux de hauteur suffisante afin d’obtenir une occlusion antérieure correcte. Puis, nous les avons diminués progressivement afin de permettre l’égression des secteurs latéraux.

Résultats : Nous avons obtenu une correction de l’occlusion antérieure ainsi qu’une harmonisation fonctionnelle. Discussion : les auteurs fonctionnalistes ont mis au point des appareils de correction des occlusions antérieures inversées par augmentation de la dimension verticale. Cependant, ces méthodes de traitement sont peu répandues en cabinet.

Conclusion : nous pouvons proposer aux patients présentant une occlusion antérieure inversée un traitement par plans de surélévations afin d’obtenir une harmonisation fonctionnelle et une correction du décalage sagittal.
Faszination Technik und Pflege
Authors: Weiffenbach Jana
Published: December 2024

Ganz gleich ob Fremdkörper geborgen, akute Blutungen gestillt, Tumore oder Gallensteine entfernt werden müssen – das alles funktioniert heute endoskopisch. Ohne die kompetente Assistenz von Endoskopiefachkräften läuft dabei nichts.
The Effect of Motivational Interviewing on Caregiver Facilitation of Home Practice
Authors: Benton-Vitz Brittany , Krueger Breanna I.
Published: December 2024

The purpose of the investigation was to determine the feasibility of motivational interviewing (MI) to increase caregiver facilitation of articulation home practice. The number of completed caregiver-facilitated practice sessions was collected daily throughout the investigation. MI was introduced to three caregivers who all identified feelings of ambivalence surrounding home practice. All caregivers participated in at least two MI sessions. There were three demonstrations of an increase in the percentage of home practice facilitation when MI was introduced, which suggests a functional relationship between MI and home practice facilitation. Overall, the data suggested that MI may improve caregiver facilitation of home practice. The results of this investigation demonstrated that all participants improved their ability to facilitate articulation home practice with their children after participating in MI sessions, compared to baseline. Additionally, results indicated that this guiding style of communication may be useful for resolving ambivalence surrounding articulation home practice facilitation.
8.1.1.4 Practical Advances in the Activation and Uses of Lithium Metal in Organic Synthesis
Authors: Crockett M. P. , Aguirre L. S. , Chen S.-K. , Sk M. R. , Thomas A. A.
Published: December 2024

Lithium metal continues to play a critical role in advancing the field of chemical synthesis. In this context, the past decade has witnessed several advances in how lithium metal is activated and employed for the preparation of organic and organometallic compounds. Furthermore, it has been widely applied in several significant organic transformations including reductive metalations and Birch reductions. Reviewed herein is the use of lithium metal in synthesis from 2013 to the first half of 2023, with a special emphasis on the development of new sources of lithium metal as well as advances in the substrate scope and practicality of several synthetic transformations.
42.8.18 Alkylphosphonous Acids and Derivatives (Update 2025)
Authors: Stankevič M. , Sowa S.
Published: December 2024

This is an update to the previous Science of Synthesis contribution (from 2009), describing newly developed methods for the synthesis of alkylphosphonous acids and their derivatives. Various synthetic methodologies have been developed, depending on the structure of the final compound. The majority of examples describe mutual interconversions within the product class, with other transformations having been developed far less extensively.
Effect of a collapsing gas bubble on the shock-to-detonation transition in liquid nitromethane
Authors: Turley W. D. , La Lone B. M. , Mance J. G. , Staska M. D. , Stevens G. D. , Veeser L. R. , Aslam T. D. , Dattelbaum D. M.
Published: December 2024

We studied the shock-induced collapse of butane gas bubbles in the homogeneous explosive nitromethane (NM) to investigate the effects of hot spot formation on the detonation process. A butane bubble was injected into a sample of NM, and a shock wave from a flat plate impactor compressed the bubble, creating a localized hot spot. We measured shock and detonation wave speeds with optical velocimetry, and we used a high-speed camera to image the shock propagation and bubble collapse processes. A multiband optical fiber pyrometer measured the time-resolved thermal radiance, and we used the results and emissivity values extracted from spectral fits to estimate temperatures. We measured the characteristics of the shock-to-detonation transition in NM with and without a bubble. All experiments were performed at shock pressures near 8 GPa, where neat NM can detonate. A single bubble in this system was shown to sensitize NM, leading to a reduced run-to-detonation time. We used hydrodynamic modeling to predict shock wave propagation, the extent of chemical reaction, and subsequent temperature rise from the collapsing bubble. We used a temperature-dependent Arrhenius burn model for simulations, and it yielded much better results than reactive burn models that depend only on pressure and density.
The spatial distribution of soil nitrogen determines responses of Sorghum bicolor to banded phosphorus fertiliser
Authors: Hunter Megan A. , Bell Michael J. , van der Bom Frederik J. T. , Smith Millicent R. , Janke Chelsea K. , McLaren Timothy I.
Published: December 2024

Context The grain-growing areas of north-eastern Australia are a major producer of grain for human and livestock consumption, but declining soil nitrogen (N) and phosphorus (P) fertility is increasing fertiliser requirements to sustain productivity. Adding a concentrated zone of fertiliser P to the subsoil (i.e. a ‘deep P’ band) is an effective strategy to increase plant P uptake in farming systems reliant on stored soil water. However, crop responses to deep P with contrasting soil N status remain unclear. Aim This study aimed to assess responses of sorghum (Sorghum bicolor) to fertiliser P with contrasting distributions of soil N. Method A lysimeter experiment was conducted in semi-controlled environment, where sorghum was grown to physiological maturity in P depleted Vertosol with contrasting fertiliser N and P additions. Key findings Responses of sorghum to deep P were optimised when bands were placed in N enriched soil in the 0–20 cm layer, producing comparable biomass to when P was dispersed throughout the soil volume. Localised root proliferation around the deep P band was maximised when bands were placed into N-enriched soil, however plant P uptake was only 77% of that with dispersed P. Conclusions Sorghum responses to deep P were affected by the distribution of soil N within the top 60 cm of the soil profile, with maximum dry matter production, N and P uptake occurring when high concentrations of N and P were co-located in the 0–20 cm layer. Implications Adequate N status of the upper soil profile is required to optimise sorghum responses to deep P.
E93 controls adult differentiation by repressing
broad
in
Drosophila
Authors: Cruz Josefa , Ureña Enric , Iñiguez Luis P. , Irimia Manuel , Franch-Marro Xavier , Martín David
Published: December 2024

In
Drosophila melanogaster
, successful development relies on the precise coordination of both spatial and temporal regulatory axes. The temporal axis governs stage-specific identity and developmental transitions through a number of genes, collectively forming the
Metamorphic Gene Network
. Among these, Ecdysone inducible protein 93F (E93) serves as the critical determinant for adult specification, but its mechanism of action remains unclear. Here, we found that, rather than acting mainly as an instructive signal, E93 promotes adult differentiation through the repression of the pupal specifier
broad
(
br
). In the absence of E93, sustained high levels of Br during the pupal stage strongly represses pupal-specific enhancers that are essential for the terminal differentiation of the wing. Notably, RNA-seq analysis confirmed that the majority of E93-dependent transcriptomic changes in pupal wings are primarily driven by
br
repression. In addition, we also show that Br represses the pupal-enhancers during the larval and prepupal stages preventing the premature implementation of the adult genetic program, and that it also dampens the activity of larval enhancers during the latter stages of larval development. This mechanism of action seems to be a derived feature acquired in Diptera, as in the coleopteran
Tribolium castaneum
, repression of
br
by E93 is not sufficient to allow adult differentiation. In summary, our study elucidates the crucial role of the intricate interplay between E93 and Br as the governing mechanism in the process of terminal differentiation in
Drosophila
. This finding holds significant implications for advancing our understanding of the evolution of insect metamorphosis.
The C-terminal activating domain promotes pannexin 1 channel opening
Authors: Henze Erik , Ehrlich Jacqueline J. , Robertson Janice L. , Gelsleichter Eric , Kawate Toshimitsu
Published: December 2024

Pannexin 1 (Panx1) constitutes a large pore channel responsible for the release of adenosine triphosphate (ATP) from apoptotic cells. Strong evidence indicates that caspase-mediated cleavage of the C-terminus promotes the opening of the Panx1 channel by unplugging the pore. However, this simple pore-plugging mechanism alone cannot account for the observation that a Panx1 construct ending before the caspase cleavage site remains closed. Here, we show that a helical region located immediately before the caspase cleavage site, referred to as the “C-terminal activating domain (CAD)”, plays a pivotal role in facilitating Panx1 activation. Electrophysiology and mutagenesis studies uncovered that two conserved leucine residues within the CAD play a pivotal role. Cryoelectron microscopy (Cryo-EM) analysis of the construct ending before reaching the CAD demonstrated that the N terminus extends into an intracellular pocket. In contrast, the construct including the CAD revealed that this domain occupies the intracellular pocket, causing the N terminus to flip upward within the pore. Analysis of electrostatic free energy landscape in the closed conformation indicated that the intracellular side of the ion permeation pore may be occupied by anions like ATP, creating an electrostatic barrier for anions attempting to permeate the pore. When the N terminus flips up, it diminishes the positively charged surface, thereby reducing the drive to accumulate anions inside the pore. This dynamic change in the electrostatic landscape likely contributes to the selection of permeant ions. Collectively, these experiments put forth a mechanism in which C-terminal cleavage liberates the CAD, causing the repositioning of the N terminus to promote Panx1 channel opening.
Canonical terpene synthases in arthropods: Intraphylum gene transfer
Authors: Chen Xinlu , Urban John M. , Wurlitzer Jens , Wei Xiuting , Han Jin , E. O’Connor Sarah , Rudolf Jeffrey D. , Köllner Tobias G. , Chen Feng
Published: December 2024

Insects employ terpenoids for communication both within and between species. While terpene synthases derived from isoprenyl diphosphate synthase have been shown to catalyze terpenoid biosynthesis in some insects, canonical terpene synthases (TPS) commonly found in plants, fungi, and bacteria were previously unidentified in insects. This study reveals the presence of
TPS
genes in insects, likely originating via horizontal gene transfer from noninsect arthropods. By examining 361 insect genomes, we identified
TPS
genes in five species of the Sciaridae family (fungus gnats). Additionally,
TPS
genes were found in Collembola (springtails) and Acariformes (mites) among diverse noninsect arthropods. Selected TPS enzymes from Sciaridae, Collembola, and Acariformes display monoterpene, sesquiterpene, and/or diterpene synthase activities. Through comprehensive protein database search and phylogenetic analysis, the
TPS
genes in Sciaridae were found to be most closely related to those in Acariformes, suggesting transfer of
TPS
genes from Acariformes to Sciaridae. In the model Sciaridae
Bradysia coprophila
, all five
TPS
genes are most highly expressed in adult males, suggesting a sex- and developmental stage-specific role of their terpenoid products. The finding of
TPS
genes in insects and their possible evolutionary origin through intraphylum gene transfer within arthropods sheds light on metabolic innovation in insects.
Relativistic elastic membranes: rotating disks and Dyson spheres
Authors: Mourão Paulo , Natário José , Vicente Rodrigo
Published: December 2024

We derive the equations of motion for relativistic elastic membranes, that is, two-dimensional elastic bodies whose internal energy depends only on their stretching, starting from a variational principle. We show how to obtain conserved quantities for the membrane’s motion in the presence of spacetime symmetries, determine the membrane’s longitudinal and transverse speeds of sound in isotropic states, and compute the coefficients of linear elasticity with respect to the relaxed configuration. We then use this formalism to discuss two physically interesting systems: a rigidly rotating elastic disk, widely discussed in the context of Ehrenfest’s paradox, and a Dyson sphere, that is, a spherical membrane in equilibrium in Schwarzschild’s spacetime, with the isotropic tangential pressure balancing the gravitational attraction. Surprisingly, although spherically symmetric perturbations of this system are linearly stable, the axi-symmetric dipolar mode is already unstable. This may be taken as a cautionary tale against misconstruing radial stability as true stability.
Revisiting the Dirac nature of neutrinos in the light of Δ(27) and cyclic symmetries
Authors: Dey Manash , Roy Subhankar
Published: December 2024

Amid the uncertainty regarding the fundamental nature of neutrinos, we adhere to the Dirac description, and construct a model in the framework of Δ(27) symmetry. The model successfully accounts for the hierarchical patterns of both charged lepton and neutrino masses. The neutrino mass matrix exhibits four texture zeroes, and the associated mixing scheme aligns with the experimental data, notably controlled by a single parameter.
An ultra-low-power high-speed variation-resilient DLJLT-PUF for IOT devices
Authors: Panchore Meena , Rajan Chithraja , Singh Jawar
Published: December 2024

Physically unclonable functions (PUFs) have emerged as attractive primitives to resolve the various issues of hardware security in integrated circuits, such as cryptographic key generation and chip authentication. However, the power budget and high performance of the ring oscillator (RO) PUF limits the use of ROPUF in Internet of Things (IoT) applications. Therefore, an ultra-low-power high-performance ROPUF is needed. Hence, in this article, an ultra-low power, high-speed dopingless (DL)-based PUF is presented and its performance compared with the conventional counterpart junctionless transistor-PUF (JLT-PUF). Here, a PUF circuit is designed using 256 ROs and sensitivity analysis is performed for an RO realized with DL and JLT structure for different doping concentrations. We have observed that the DLJLT-RO is variation resilient and hence less susceptible to process variability issues compared to the JLT-RO. The average power and frequency of the DLJLT-RO are improved by ∼27 and ∼12 times than earlier reported work. The proposed DLJLT-PUF is implemented using 15 nm technology, and a Monte Carlo simulation is performed for 100 runs. The simulation result shows that the DLJLT-PUF has a uniqueness of 46.9% and frequency of 9.1 GHz which is higher than earlier reported work. Hence, the proposed DLJLT-PUF is well suited for the application of chip identification as well as cryptographic key generation.
A unified nonlinear model of piezoelectric cantilever beams with complex geometries for energy harvesting applications
Authors: Choudhary Radhika , Rzig Imen , Fotsing Edith Roland , Ross Annie
Published: December 2024

Abstract

It is generally known that piezoelectric material is inherently nonlinear. This nonlinearity is more apparent at high vibration amplitudes, which are generally present in a number of energy harvesting applications such as high-power machine tools, subway vehicles, aircraft engines and rotors. The effect of nonlinearity in piezoelectric energy harvesters (PEHs) implemented for these applications needs to be assessed and well understood. The purpose of this article is to model the material nonlinearities for a piezoelectric cantilever consisting of complex geometries. The geometries modeled in this work include morphological configurations (unimorph and bimorph), tapered beam profiles, partial piezoelectric layer coverage and tip mass. Within the existing literature, several geometry-specific nonlinear models are provided for the piezoelectric cantilever which makes the study of complex designs difficult. In this work, a generalized method is developed by incorporating the transfer matrix method. The nonlinear governing equations of the piezoelectric cantilever are generalized to include higher-order nonlinear terms until nth order. The governing equations are derived by utilizing the nonlinear piezoelectric constitutive equations in the extended Hamilton’s principle and a numerical Ordinary Differential Equation solver is used to obtain the PEH output. The nonlinear model is validated using finite element model, literature and experiments conducted on a bimorph PEH sample. It is found that nonlinear response of PEH is attributed to material nonlinearity and the contribution of higher-order nonlinear terms is significant.
Moiré physics in two-dimensional materials: Novel quantum phases and electronic properties
Authors: Tian 田 Zi-Yi 子弈 , Li 李 Si-Yu 思宇 , Zhou 周 Hai-Tao 海涛 , Jiang 姜 Yu-Hang 宇航 , Mao 毛 Jin-Hai 金海
Published: December 2024

Moiré superlattices have revolutionized the study of two-dimensional materials, enabling unprecedented control over their electronic, magnetic, optical, and mechanical properties. This review provides a comprehensive analysis of the latest advancements in moiré physics, focusing on the formation of moiré superlattices due to rotational misalignment or lattice mismatch in two-dimensional materials. These superlattices induce flat band structures and strong correlation effects, leading to the emergence of exotic quantum phases, such as unconventional superconductivity, correlated insulating states, and fractional quantum anomalous Hall effects. The review also explores the underlying mechanisms of these phenomena and discusses the potential technological applications of moiré physics, offering insights into future research directions in this rapidly evolving field.
Extended-MHD simulations of disruption mitigation via massive gas injection in SPARC
Authors: Kleiner A. , Ferraro N.M. , Sweeney R. , Lyons B.C. , Reinke M.
Published: December 2024

Recent developments to the M3D-C1 code enable higher fidelity modeling of disruptions, and can be applied in the design verification of reactor-scale tokamaks. Among these new capabilities is a method to mesh conducting vessel structures such as coils and passive plates, packing of the toroidal mesh around gas injectors, as well as anisotropic resistivity inside the vessel structures. We present extended-magnetohydrodynamic (MHD) simulations of disruption mitigation via massive gas injection (MGI) in SPARC. The goal of this study is to inform the disruption mitigation layout of SPARC and aid in the design of an effective gas injector configuration. Fully three-dimensional simulations with M3D-C1 are carried out for various injector configurations with the primary goal of determining the effect of different MGI parameters on heat loads and vessel forces. The simulations include a model for impurity ionization, recombination, advection and radiation, as well as spatially resolved conducting structures around the plasma. A localized mixture of deuterium and neon with a small toroidal and poloidal width is injected in up to six locations. We demonstrate that M3D-C1 can model a rapid shutdown via MGI using narrow and more realistic gas plumes than in previous simulations. As a result of the q = 1 surface in the SPARC baseline case a sawtooth is observed early in the simulations. Despite the sawtooth and the onset of edge MHD instabilities, the impurity distribution remains localized around the injector locations, but enables a radiative shutdown of the plasma. We find that using the maximum of six gas injectors results in a lower peaking factor and leads to a more even distribution of radiation toroidally than using two injectors.
Non-Gaussian mean-field method for self-sustaining optomechanical system
Authors: Li Wenlin , Li Song-hai , Cheng Jiong , Zhang X Y
Published: December 2024

We introduce a simulation method based on a mean-field theory to treat the entire dynamical process of an oscillator in a self-sustaining optomechanical system, including the absorbed energy, up to the formation of a stable limit cycle. Higher-order nonlinear effects are taken into account and the non-Gaussian amplitude (phase) distribution is characterized by analyzing a set of linearized fluctuation equations in amplitude–phase representation. This method has the same applicability as full numerical simulations with stochastic Langevin equations, but it can greatly reduce the required computational resources. The non-Gaussian dynamics of the oscillator can be largely understood from the evolution of the phase fluctuation in the non-stationary phase, which cannot be described by a constant diffusion factor. Finally, we discuss the generalization of this method to multi-mode systems and show the potential of this method to solve complex quantum problems, such as quantum synchronization.
Referential type opinion formation with fluctuating affinities on social network
Authors: Yano Ryosuke
Published: December 2024

The referential type opinion formation with the fluctuating affinities on the social network is investigated. The time evolution of the opinions is written by the DeGroot–Hegselmann–Krause type equation with the fluctuating weights (i.e. affinities). The time evolution of opinions obtained by such fluctuating affinities is calculated by changing the structure of the network. Finally, the stability of clusters of opinions depends on the balance between the mean value and the temperature, which define motions of the affinities.
A Global Military Biomedical Establishment
Authors: Parasidis Efthimios
Published: December 2024

This chapter describes the development and modernization of military medicine and the military healthcare infrastructure after WWII and during the Cold War. It bridges this development with the global proliferation of atomic, chemical, and biological weapons programs, and the US military’s drive to create medical countermeasures to combat atomic, chemical, and biowarfare threats. Alongside these developments and discussion of America’s overt military engagements during the Cold War, the chapter discusses the increasing role of covert operations to pursue America’s political, economic, and military goals. This included the creation of a special forces command and increased collaborations between the military and CIA on military missions. The chapter explains how America’s support for Iraq’s chemical weapons program during the Iran-Iraq war of 1980–1988 would later threaten American interests when Iraq invaded Kuwait in 1991.
Recurrent morphoeic basal cell carcinoma with metastatic progression in a 34-year-old patient: a case report
Authors: Afzal Usamah M , Ali Faisal R , Oudit Deemesh , Totorean Roxana , Shenjere Patrick , Lear John T
Published: December 2024

Basal cell carcinomas (BCCs) are the most common type of cancer diagnosed in the world, predominantly affecting the head and neck region. However, metastatic BCCs are exceptionally rare, with an estimated prevalence between 0.0028% and 0.55%. We present a case of a young patient that demonstrates the highly aggressive nature of morphoeic BCC and the challenges in achieving long-term disease control despite multimodal therapy. The case data have been collected from The Christie Hospital NHS Foundation Trust and St Mary’s Regional Genetics Centre, Manchester, UK.
Multimodal skin imaging of a dermatofibrosarcoma protuberans using line-field confocal optical coherence tomography, ultra-high frequency ultrasound and reflectance confocal microscopy
Authors: Boussingault Lucas , Jazaeri Yasaman , Sanak Dilara , Bernardi Dana , Trépant Anne-Laure , Cinotti Elisa , Tognetti Linda , Pérez-Anker Javiera , Perrot Jean Luc , del Marmol Véronique , Suppa Mariano
Published: December 2024

As this is a case report involving a single patient who provided written informed consent for the retrospective use of his images, approval from the local institutional review board was not required.