bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Aqueous solution degradation pathways of trimethylsiloxane surfactants
Authors: Mifkovic Maleigh , Etz Brian D. , Shukla Manoj K. , Vyas Shubham
Published: September 2024

Trimethylsiloxane (TriSil) surfactants are promising, environmentally friendly alternatives to per- and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS), which are global recalcitrant and persistent environmental contaminants, in aqueous film-forming fire-fighting foams (AFFF).
Letter to the Editor Regarding “Instrumental Assessment of Aero-Resistive Expiratory Muscle Strength Rehabilitation Devices”
Authors: Bausek Nina , Arnold Robert J.
Published: September 2024

This Letter to the Editor was created in response to the article titled, “Instrumental Assessment of Aero-Resistive Expiratory Muscle Strength Rehabilitation Devices” by Dietsch et al. (2024). The article aims to compare six expiratory muscle strength training (EMST) devices and investigates their minimum trigger pressure, variability across the settings, and stability. The models tested include five positive expiratory pressure (PEP) devices, Acapella, TheraPEP, Threshold PEP, EMST75, and EMST150. It also includes a combined inspiratory and expiratory muscle training device, the Breather. We have several concerns about the integrity of results presented regarding the Breather as presented in the article. These include the heterogeneity of device sample used, as well as inadequate methodology and the experimental setup.
MedBlockSure: Blockchain‐based insurance system
Authors: Krishna Charu , Kumar Divya , Kushwaha Dharmender Singh
Published: September 2024

Health insurance plays a vital role during medical emergencies in the coverage against medical expenses. Insurance fraud is an international challenge that affects most economies worldwide. Government and private companies offer many insurance schemes. The successful implementation of numerous health insurance programs offered for the public by and large are often threatened by corruption, fraud, and numerous other data‐related issues. Further the procedure for acclaiming the insurance money is not only critical in terms of verification of claims but tedious and time consuming also. To help redress these problems, blockchain technology can be utilised as is it offers improved security, transparency, auditability, privacy, accountability along with many other advantages. The goal is to create and implement a blockchain‐based solution for efficient functioning of insurance system and to prevent such health insurance systems from going bankrupt. The authors have proposed an insurance claim model, MedBlockSure using blockchain architecture for creating interoperability between the insurer, the hospital and the insurance company. The model will aid in maintaining transparency between the insurer and the company while eliminating the requirement of middlemen or agents. The conceptual view of the proposed system using sequence and use case diagrams and data management framework and smart claim processing system is demonstrated.
Development of the root system of Poa pratensis L. influenced by phytomass of competitive plants
Authors: Zagurskaya Yulia V.
Published: September 2024

The periodic surface application of phytomass of Solidago canadensis L., Filipendula ulmaria (L.) Maxim, Chamaenerion angustifolium (L.) and Scop., and Cirsium setosum (Willd.) Besser ex M.Bieb., results in variations in the development of underground organs of Poa pratensis, including the stimulation or inhibition of rhizome formation. The noted effects are associated with variations in the structure and properties of soils, similar to those observed for green manure (siderate plants).
Heavy metals content of Sanguisorba officinalis L. in some regions of Siberia
Authors: Egorova Natalya , Sheremetova Svetlana , Egorova Irina
Published: September 2024

Heavy metals content was studied in soil, herb and rhizomes with roots of Sanguisorba officinalis L. obtained in the Kemerovo, Novosibirsk and Krasnoyarsk regions. The study found that the root layer soil samples at all survey sites have significant elemental composition fluctuations and that its content does not exceed the maximum permissible concentration (MAC) in accordance with hygienic standards. It was revealed that biophyllic metals – Fe, Mn, Zn and Cu – accumulate more, mainly in Sanguisorba officinalis L. underground organs – rhizomes and roots (390.00…8.20 mg/kg). The raw materials samples collected in the Krasnoyarsk, Kemerovo and Novosibirsk regions comply the GMP.1.5.3.0009 GF XV requirements for standardized heavy metals.
Hemeroby assessment of the flora of the north-western part of the Altai-Sayan province
Authors: Zverev Andrei , Ebel Alexander , Shchegoleva Natalia
Published: September 2024

Based on the regional flora studied by the authors (north-western part of the Altai-Sayan floristic province, subdivided into 13 operational botanical-geographical regions), an assessment of the degree of transformation of territories at the level of large units of the rank of botanical-geographical regions according to the structure of hemeroby tolerance of their floristic composition was made. This study revealed a rather close relationship between the distribution of species by ecological-coenotic groups and hemeroby classes. These indicators can be used for floristic zoning and assessing the level of anthropogenic transformation of flora.
Restoration of the Erythronium sibiricum (Fisch. et C.A. Mey.) Krylov coenopolulation in a nature reserve
Authors: Klimova Olga , Egorov Andrey
Published: September 2024

The article presents the results of a six-year study of the feasibility of maintaining the integrity of restored Siberian fawn lily coenopopulations after returning from the ex-situ system to the natural habitat. The restoration of the Siberian fawn lily coenopopulation in the disturbed part of the Barzassky Nature Reserve was the final stage of the biological reclamation of lands disturbed due to illegal economic activities. The source of planting material for restoration was fawn lily bulbs from the habitat zone destroyed during the development of a coal deposit within the boundaries of JSC Chernigovets. The bulbs were kept in artificial habitats of the Kuzbass Botanical Garden of the Federal Research Center of Coal and Coal Chemistry of SB RAS. Fawn lily seed material was obtained from the seed bank formed in the four years of plant development. In accordance with the restoration objectives, to completely restore a natural complex similar to the original appearance, the required volume of vegetative material amounts to 550 bulbs and of seed material – to 1050 seeds. The bulbs were planted in clumps of 5 m2. The seeds were sown in furrows of 100 seeds in each. As a result, the rooting rate of the bulbs was about 86%, and the germination rate of the seeds equaled 85%. Bearing in mind that the planting material amount was increased during the work, the final result fully meets the required standards in terms of the number of Siberian fawn lily seedlings and sprouts. The methodological and technological techniques and approaches used during Siberian fawn lily cultivation and return to the in-situ system fully ensured the success of measures aimed at conserving vulnerable components of the regional biodiversity.
The establishment of a regional network of specially protected natural areas (SPNAS) as a factor in preserving biodiversity in industrially developed regions
Authors: Timchenko Evgenija , Egorov Andrei
Published: September 2024

The Kemerovo Region, also known as Kuzbass, is one of the most industrially developed regions in Russia. It is home to the Kuznetsk Coal Basin, one of the largest coal deposits in both Russia and the world. The intensive development of the mining industry, the formation of open-pit coal mines, waste dumps, and the increasing areas of disturbed land have raised significant concerns about the preservation of the region’s biodiversity. Efforts to conserve biodiversity are being made through the creation of a regional system of specially protected natural areas, which includes 19 state nature reserves, 5 natural monuments, and 4 locally protected natural areas. The total area of regional and municipal specially protected natural territories in Kuzbass is 698,279 hectares, constituting 9.9% of the total regional territory.
Variability of climatic norms during instrumental observations in the Kuzbass Botanical Garden
Authors: Sheremetov Rashit
Published: September 2024

In the work, based on a number of observations at station 29645 Kemerovo for the period from 1955 to 2023, the long-term variability of air temperature was investigated. For the first time for the Kuzbass Botanical Garden, climatic norms for the period 1991–2020 were estimated, using linear trend analysis, the rates of change in climatic indicators were estimated. It has been established that climatic indicator on the territory of the Kuzbass Botanical Garden for the period from 1955 to 2023. have an upward trend. However, the temperature growth rates are slightly higher than those noted for Western Siberia. It has been shown that the climatic standards of air temperature in the modern period differ significantly from the base period of 1961–1990 proposed by WMO.
Adaptive metaheuristic strategies for optimal power point tracking in photovoltaic systems under fluctuating shading conditions
Authors: Mhanni Youssef , Lagmich Youssef
Published: September 2024

In recent years, there has been a growing interest in photovoltaic (PV) systems due to their capacity to generate clean energy, reduce pollution, and promote environmental sustainability. Optimizing the operational efficiency of PV systems has become a critical goal, particularly under challenging conditions like partial shading. Traditional maximum power point tracking (MPPT) methods face limitations in addressing this issue effectively. To tackle these challenges, this study introduces an enhanced MPPT approach based on the grey wolf optimizer (GWO), tailored to excel in GMPP tracking even under partial shading conditions. The algorithm harnesses adaptive and exploratory capabilities inspired by the behaviour of grey wolves in the wild. To comprehensively evaluate the proposed GWO-based MPPT algorithm's effectiveness, we conduct a comparative analysis with established metaheuristic algorithms, including particle swarm optimization (PSO) and the Pelican optimization algorithm (POA). Through this comparison, our study provides valuable insights into the algorithm's efficiency, behavior, and adaptability in addressing the complex challenges posed by partial shading scenarios in PV systems, thereby contributing to the advancement of efficient solar energy conversion.
PONYS and SPAM: when physics crosses boundaries, “best activity award” of 2024
Authors: Unich Lorenzo , Puglia Andrea Camilla , D’Anna Linda , Velotti Leonardo , Cordella Claudia , Martín Valderrama Carmen
Published: September 2024

The Young Minds (YM) project of the European Physical Society (EPS) has always empowered and supported three main types of activities: scientific outreach, professional development and networking. And it is to further encourage our YM sections on the organization of such activities and to recognize their good work that the YM action committee annually organizes the “best-activity award”, where sections participate with a poster presenting their major activity of the last year.
Graphene plasmonics: manipulating light at the nanoscale with a one-atom-thick material
Authors: Peres N.M.R. , Gonçalves P.A.D. , Stauber T. , Mortensen N. Asger
Published: September 2024

Surface plasmon polaritons (SPPs), collective oscillations of the electron density coupled to electromagnetic fields at metallic surfaces, enable the confinement of electromagnetic radiation at subwavelength scales. Plasmonics, the subfield of nanophotonics that studies SPPs, leverages these capabilities to investigate the fundamental processes governing light–matter interactions and to engineer nanoscale optoelectronic devices.
Impact of Physico-Chemical Characteristics on the Mechanical Strength and Pore Structure of Air Lime Mortars with Isparta Tuff and Banahmeta Additives
Authors: Su-Cadirci Tugce Busra , Baki Vahiddin Alperen , Dabanli Omer , Calabria-Holley Juliana , Ball Richard J.
Published: September 2024

The physical and chemical interactions between the lime and pozzolans in conservation mortars are fundamental to sustainable building practices. Here, we report experimental investigations on pure air lime mortar, air lime-isparta tuff mortar, and air lime-banahmeta mortar. Isparta Tuff is formed from volcanic rocks found in the Southwest between Isparta and Burdur city centres in Anatolia, belonging to the Gölcük volcanism. The microstructural and physiochemical interactions of these mixed designs were investigated. Importantly, this study quantifies critical performance parameters of air lime mortars incorporating Isparta tuff as a pozzolan. It supports using local and natural volcanic tuffs in developing sustainable mortars for the conservation of historical assets in Turkey.
Improving the strength of metakaolin-lime based binder
Authors: Öztürk Mert , Tanaçan Leyla , Barış Kübra Ekiz
Published: September 2024

Pozzolanic reaction of low-calcium metakaolin (MK) with calcium hydroxide (CH) at ambient temperature in the presence of water forms a series of hydrated phases such as tetracalcium aluminate hydrate (C4AH13), calcium silicate hydrate (C-S-H) and calcium aluminum silicate hydrate (stratlingite - C2ASH8). Stratlingite is the main crystalline phase and is responsible for the strength of the binder. Tetracalcium aluminate hydrate (C4AH13) is carbonated upon contact with air or converted to hemicarboaluminate and/or monocarboaluminate if the system contains excess carbonate phases (calcite or calcareous aggregates). However, the calcium aluminate hydrates formed after the reaction of MK with lime lose their strength over time due to their instability. Especially in a high humidity environment where there is no carbonation, the presence of both stratlingite and (CH) in the binder creates weak phases called katoite (Ca3Al2(SiO4)(OH)8) and can reduce the mechanical strength and durability. On the other hand, it has been determined that using chemical activators to increase the pozzolanic reactivity is the most feasible method, although it increases the cost of the material. In this study, it is aimed to eliminate the phases that cause katoite formation and improve the performance of the binder by using alkaline hydroxide solution in a mixture of metakaolin and slaked lime, similar to the pore solution caused by hydrated cement. For this aim, the effect of sodium carbonate (N-Na2CO3), quicklime (C-CaO) and calcite (CC-CaCO3) on the (CH-Ca(OH)2) activated metakaolin system is investigated through the experimental campaign. The preparation of the mixtures is done by the novel one-part mixing method.
Testing historical recipes with organic additives to alter the water absorption of traditional lime mortar
Authors: Van Audenrode Florence , De Kock Tim
Published: September 2024

This research aims to investigate the effect of organic additives on the properties of hydraulic lime mortars, primarily focusing on water absorption properties and freeze-thaw durability. Four organic additives are selected based on historical mortar recipes from different European sources dating back to the 17th, 18th and 19th century. These additives are linseed oil, egg white, ghee (Indian clarified butter) and oxblood. Basic hydraulic lime mortars have been gauged with the respective additives in different quantities. The analysis include open porosity, capillary water absorption, and effects of freeze-thaw tests. To gain insight on the effectiveness of the organic additives in mitigating freeze-thaw action due to less water absorption, these results are applied to assess the durability of the different mortars, which is physically tested in a freeze-thaw experiment. The use of ghee shows promising results.
New recipes of mortars for Romanian architectural heritage consolidation
Authors: Moşiu Alina , Ion Rodica-Mariana , Moşoarcă Marius , Iancu Lorena , Grigorescu Ramona Marina
Published: September 2024

For centuries, the architecture monuments consisting of masonry buildings has been built using bricks, wood, roof tiles and various mortars. The characterization of the construction materials has become of primary importance, to obtain information about the raw ingredients and building technology of the mortars, and the history of possible previous restorations. Most of these buildings support deterioration due to the environmental conditions: physical factors (temperature, wind, moisture, solar radiations, etc.), chemical factor (sulphate, nitrates, and other pollutants able to forms acid with water i.e., acid rain), and biological factor (vegetation, micro-organisms and other forms: insects, birds, animals). To find new mortar recipes, with mechanical and antimicrobial resistance, different laboratory specimens were prepared in this study, based on mortar with incorporated hydroxyapatite. They were tested from a compositional, mechanical, chromatic, and antimicrobial point of view, concluding that the best mortar is the one with 20% incorporated hydroxyapatite. Some tests as peeling, droplet water absorption, the mortar consolidant efficiency and water absorption were performed, too. The specimen surfaces were characterized by optical microscopy (OM), stereomicroscopy, mechanical measurements to evaluate the size and distribution of particles. These measurements that have been made, will serve as a critical reference for the maintenance and restoration of the buildings.
A semi-probabilistic approach for assessing material and model uncertainty in the out-of-plane response of URM structures
Authors: Vadalà Federica , da Silva Luis C.M. , Caliò Ivo , Lourenço Paulo B.
Published: September 2024

A procedure tailored for a practical calibration of partial safety factors (PSF) related to input material properties is presented. The methodology addresses the propagation of material and model uncertainty through a FORM-based calibration, resulting in a noteworthy reduction in computation time compared to full probabilistic approaches. The novelty lies on the introduction of the Star Design with Central Point (SDCP) method for the computation of sensitivity coefficients and corresponding partial safety factors for material uncertainty. A calibration example is reported with reference to unreinforced masonry structures under out-of-plane failure. The effect of considering different geometries, failure modes, and modelling approaches is explored. A comparative analysis involving different approaches to propagate uncertainties emphasize the promising potential of the proposed procedure.
Low CO2 emission cement from alkali-activated gravel wash mud and quartzite dust
Authors: Kukemilks Karlis , Wagner Jean-Frank
Published: September 2024

High CO2 emissions and rising energy costs result in an increasing demand for innovative, environmentally friendly and energy-efficient construction materials. Gravel wash mud (GWM) is a widely available industrial by-product from gravel mining which may be used as an aluminosilicate source in the production of cementitious materials. In this study, GWM from Eifel in the SW Germany was used for the synthesis of alkali-activated cement. A high NaOH leachable Si and Al content and fine grain-size makes this material particularly applicable for synthesis of alkali-activated cements and geopolymers. Silicate dust from quartzite mining in Saarland is other industrial by-product used to improve the physical properties of the cement. Both materials were thermally and mechanically processed prior to chemical activation. A single-compound activator of NaOH solution was used, leading to no addition of soluble silicates. The main advantages of the new cement are zero CO₂ emissions from raw materials during calcination, comparatively low energy demand due to short grinding time, low temperature of calcination and low demand of alkali activator/no need for soluble silicates and valorisation of GWM and quartzite dust from aggregate mining. Experiments show that calcined kaolinite clay acts as a very effective binder in the cement formulation with quartzite dust. Consequently, a very small quantity of metakaolinite in the cement mixture is necessary, which allows for a reduced quantity of alkali-activator and related production costs of the cement. Consequently, the alkali-activated cement can provide an environmentally-friendly and cost-effective material for special applications with a high heat resistance or resistance to aggressive environments.
Characterization of the degradation rate of ceramic-tiled facades
Authors: Rocha de Souza Ana Luiza , de Souza Silva Matheus , Bauer Elton
Published: September 2024

Facades are systems fixed externally to the building that perform the function of protecting the internal environment, thermal comfort and control lighting. The degradation of facades occurs due to the action of agents and mechanisms that are capable of causing alterations in the chemical and physical characteristics of materials. It depends on factors such as orientation, degree of exposure to agents and construction processes. Because the facades have different exposure conditions, degradation manifests itself heterogeneously. Given the need to understand the evolutionary behavior of degradation, we propose to characterize degradation based on its velocity as a function of increasing age of buildings. This new index helps in the study of degradation, since unlike the FGD (general degradation factor), it considers the age factor of the sample. This research was applied in 306 samples of facades located in Brasilia, Brazil. Degradation is quantified by the degradation measurement method (DMM). The speed of the degradation consists of quantifying the degradation of each sample over a year. For the quantification of the speed, three characteristic intervals are adopted (low, medium and high speed). It is observed that, with higher values, degradation becomes widespread. For the high degradation rate, more than half of the samples have a northern orientation. The high percentage of samples with a northern orientation and a high degradation rate shows that this orientation has a higher criticality of degradation.
Study of the construction techniques, materials and architectural prospectives of ancient monumental structures in Allahabad City, India
Authors: Kumar Ambareesh , Pallav Kumar
Published: September 2024

This research examines the construction methodologies, materials, and architectural principles employed in creating ancient monumental structures in Allahabad (now Prayagraj), India. Despite being erected over 600 years ago, these structures stand resiliently among the evolution of modern construction techniques and seismic safety standards. The history of Prayagraj can be traced back to ancient times. The city was initially referenced in the ancient Hindu scriptures, known as the Vedas, as a sacred destination. Further, established by the Mughal Empire under Akbar’s reign in 1583, Allahabad City witnessed the construction of numerous monumental structures using robust techniques involving stone, brick masonry, and timber materials bonded together with thin mortar and plaster. Many of these ancient edifices, erected during this period, continue to serve various functions today, reflecting the enduring craftsmanship of their builders. In this study, we have identified prestigious monuments for examination, utilizing visual inspection to gain deeper insights into the emphasized construction materials and techniques. Notably, mortar is a critical component in construction and structural connections. Furthermore, our investigation reveals the diverse range of materials utilized for binding, plastering, painting, and other decorative purposes during construction. However, it is evident that some of these monuments have endured significant wear and tear over time, resulting in major cracks and damage to their structural elements and construction materials. Through this exploration, we aim to unveil the intricate craftsmanship and architectural brilliance that characterize Allahabad’s ancient monumental structures, while also highlighting the preservation challenges posed by ageing and environmental factors.
Dual-modality ghost diffraction in a complex disordered environment using untrained neural networks
Authors: Peng Yang , Chen Wen
Published: September 2024

We report a dual-modality ghost diffraction (GD) system to simultaneously enable high-fidelity data transmission and high-resolution object reconstruction through complex disordered media using an untrained neural network (UNN) with only one set of realizations. The pixels of a 2D image to be transmitted are sequentially encoded into a series of random amplitude-only patterns using a UNN without labels and datasets. The series of random patterns generated is sequentially displayed to interact with an object placed in a designed optical system through complex disordered media. The realizations recorded at the receiving end are used to retrieve the transmitted data and reconstruct the object at the same time. The experimental results demonstrate that the proposed dual-modality GD system can robustly enable high-fidelity data transmission and high-resolution object reconstruction in a complex disordered environment. This could be a promising step toward the development of AI-driven compact optical systems with multiple modalities through complex disordered media.
A study on water quality and pollution source investigation of Jinkengling Reservoir
Authors: Qi Yiting , Cao Xin , Cao Ruisi , Cao Mingjie , Huang Jing , Xu Dong
Published: September 2024

Context Eutrophication pollution has emerged as a significant ecological concern on a global scale, with the quality of drinking water closely intertwined with the sustainability and advancement of rural communities. Aims The objective of this study was to conduct a comprehensive examination of pollution sources within the Jinkengling Reservoir, assess the extent of eutrophication pollution, and offer insights for the efficient management and regulation of the reservoir. Methods The investigation of exogenous pollution sources entailed an assessment of the pollution load, whereas the investigation of endogenous pollution sources centred on sediment testing and the analysis of sediment accumulation within the reservoir. Key results The examination of exogenous pollution sources in the reservoir indicated that nitrogen and phosphorus predominantly emanated from pollution resulting from municipal solid waste, fertiliser, and livestock and poultry farming. The analysis of endogenous pollution sources illustrated that sediment functions as a significant contributor of nutrient substances in the water. Conclusions The examination of exogenous pollution sources indicates the necessity for thorough control measures, whereas the study of endogenous pollution sources underscores the significance of sediment dredging in the reservoir. Implications This study offers insights to improve the ecological environment of local water bodies, and also has universal and reference significance for solving the global eutrophication pollution problem.
Engineered CD4 T cells for in vivo delivery of therapeutic proteins
Authors: Radhakrishnan Harikrishnan , Newmyer Sherri L. , Javitz Harold S. , Bhatnagar Parijat
Published: September 2024

The CD4 T cell, when engineered with a chimeric antigen receptor (CAR) containing specific intracellular domains, has been transformed into a zero-order drug-delivery platform. This introduces the capability of prolonged, disease-specific engineered protein biologics production, at the disease site. Experimental findings demonstrate that CD4 T cells offer a solution when modified with a CAR that includes 4-1BB but excludes CD28 intracellular domain. In this configuration, they achieve ~3X transduction efficiency of CD8 T cells, ~2X expansion rates, generating ~5X more biologic, and exhibit minimal cytolytic activity. Cumulatively, this addresses two main hurdles in the translation of cell-based drug delivery: scaling the production of engineered T cell ex vivo and generating sufficient biologics in vivo. When programmed to induce IFNβ upon engaging the target antigen, the CD4 T cells outperforms CD8 T cells, effectively suppressing cancer cell growth in vitro and in vivo. In summary, this platform enables precise targeting of disease sites with engineered protein-based therapeutics while minimizing healthy tissue exposure. Leveraging CD4 T cells’ persistence could enhance disease management by reducing drug administration frequency, addressing critical challenges in cell-based therapy.
Spaceflight-induced contractile and mitochondrial dysfunction in an automated heart-on-a-chip platform
Authors: Mair Devin B. , Tsui Jonathan H. , Higashi Ty , Koenig Paul , Dong Zhipeng , Chen Jeffrey F. , Meir Jessica U. , Smith Alec S. T. , Lee Peter H. U. , Ahn Eun Hyun , Countryman Stefanie , Sniadecki Nathan J. , Kim Deok-Ho
Published: September 2024

With current plans for manned missions to Mars and beyond, the need to better understand, prevent, and counteract the harmful effects of long-duration spaceflight on the body is becoming increasingly important. In this study, an automated heart-on-a-chip platform was flown to the International Space Station on a 1-mo mission during which contractile cardiac function was monitored in real-time. Upon return to Earth, engineered human heart tissues (EHTs) were further analyzed with ultrastructural imaging and RNA sequencing to investigate the impact of prolonged microgravity on cardiomyocyte function and health. Spaceflight EHTs exhibited significantly reduced twitch forces, increased incidences of arrhythmias, and increased signs of sarcomere disruption and mitochondrial damage. Transcriptomic analyses showed an up-regulation of genes and pathways associated with metabolic disorders, heart failure, oxidative stress, and inflammation, while genes related to contractility and calcium signaling showed significant down-regulation. Finally, in silico modeling revealed a potential link between oxidative stress and mitochondrial dysfunction that corresponded with RNA sequencing results. This represents an in vitro model to faithfully reproduce the adverse effects of spaceflight on three-dimensional (3D)-engineered heart tissue.
Cell-type-specific enhancement of deviance detection by synaptic zinc in the mouse auditory cortex
Authors: McCollum Mason , Manning Abbey , Bender Philip T. R. , Mendelson Benjamin Z. , Anderson Charles T.
Published: September 2024

Stimulus-specific adaptation is a hallmark of sensory processing in which a repeated stimulus results in diminished successive neuronal responses, but a deviant stimulus will still elicit robust responses from the same neurons. Recent work has established that synaptically released zinc is an endogenous mechanism that shapes neuronal responses to sounds in the auditory cortex. Here, to understand the contributions of synaptic zinc to deviance detection of specific neurons, we performed wide-field and 2-photon calcium imaging of multiple classes of cortical neurons. We find that intratelencephalic (IT) neurons in both layers 2/3 and 5 as well as corticocollicular neurons in layer 5 all demonstrate deviance detection; however, we find a specific enhancement of deviance detection in corticocollicular neurons that arises from ZnT3-dependent synaptic zinc in layer 2/3 IT neurons. Genetic deletion of ZnT3 from layer 2/3 IT neurons removes the enhancing effects of synaptic zinc on corticocollicular neuron deviance detection and results in poorer acuity of detecting deviant sounds by behaving mice.
Ion sensors based on organic semiconductors acting as quasi-reference electrodes
Authors: Yamashita Yu , Hayakawa Harumi , Wang Pushi , Makita Tatsuyuki , Kumagai Shohei , Watanabe Shun , Takeya Jun
Published: September 2024

Thin-film devices that transduce the chemical activity of ions into electronic signals are essential components in various applications, including healthcare diagnostics and environmental monitoring. Combinations of organic semiconductors (OSCs) and ion-selective materials have been explored for developing solution-processable ion sensors. However, the necessity of reference electrodes (REs) and operational stability in ion-permeable OSCs have posed questions regarding whether reliable measurements with thin-film components are attainable with OSCs. Herein, we report electric double-layer transistors (EDLTs) with OSCs in single-crystal forms for ion sensing. Our EDLTs demonstrated high operational stability, with a one-to-one relationship between the source electrode potential and device resistance, and served as quasi-REs (qRE). When our EDLT is served as qRE, its drift was as small as 0.5 mV/h and comparable to that of commonly employed REs. In our system, the semiconductor–electrolyte interface is self-passivated by the alkyl chains of OSCs in single-crystal structures, with the two-dimensional transport layer appearing unaltered upon gating. EDLT arrays with ion-selective and nonselective liquid junctions enable ion concentration sensing without a conventional RE. These findings provide opportunities to develop thin-film devices based on OSCs for easy integration and reliable measurements.
AI-accelerated Nazca survey nearly doubles the number of known figurative geoglyphs and sheds light on their purpose
Authors: Sakai Masato , Sakurai Akihisa , Lu Siyuan , Olano Jorge , Albrecht Conrad M. , Hamann Hendrik F. , Freitag Marcus
Published: September 2024

It took nearly a century to discover a total of 430 figurative Nazca geoglyphs, which offer significant insights into the ancient cultures at the Nazca Pampa. Here, we report the deployment of an AI system to the entire Nazca region, a UNESCO World Heritage site, leading to the discovery of 303 new figurative geoglyphs within only 6 mo of field survey, nearly doubling the number of known figurative geoglyphs. Even with limited training examples, the developed AI approach is demonstrated to be effective in detecting the smaller relief-type geoglyphs, which unlike the giant line-type geoglyphs are very difficult to discern. The improved account of figurative geoglyphs enables us to analyze their motifs and distribution across the Nazca Pampa. We find that relief-type geoglyphs depict mainly human motifs or motifs of things modified by humans, such as domesticated animals and decapitated heads (81.6%). They are typically located within viewing distance (on average 43 m) of ancient trails that crisscross the Nazca Pampa and were most likely built and viewed at the individual or small-group level. On the other hand, the giant line-type figurative geoglyphs mainly depict wild animals (64%). They are found an average of 34 m from the elaborate linear/trapezoidal network of geoglyphs, which suggests that they were probably built and used on a community level for ritual activities.
Vagueness and ambiguity are very different (persuasion
devices)
Authors: Coppola Claudia , Mannaioli Giorgia , Vallauri Edoardo Lombardi
Published: September 2024

Without taking a strong theoretical stance on the
terminological boundary between ambiguity and vagueness, we suggest
that, at least when considered as persuasion devices, they are quite
different and almost opposite phenomena. We suggest that vagueness
is effectively persuasive in that it can specifically divert
epistemic vigilance from questionable or unpleasant
contents. Ambiguity, conversely, encodes multiple meanings drawing
additional attention to the message. We support
such claims through examples from markedly persuasive texts and
through the results of a self-paced reading experiment revealing
differences between contextually precise vague expressions (VE),
contextually non-precise VE, and precise expressions.
A Simple Urea Approach to N-Doped α-Mo2C with Enhanced Superconductivity
Authors: Li 李 Longfu 龙夫 , Shi 石 Lei 磊 , Zeng 曾 Lingyong 令勇 , Li 李 Kuan 宽 , Yu 余 Peifeng 沛峰 , Wang 王 Kangwang 康旺 , Zhang 张 Chao 超 , Chen 陈 Rui 睿 , Xiang 项 Zaichen 载琛 , Zhang 张 Yunwei 云蔚 , Luo 罗 Huixia 惠霞
Published: September 2024

Chemical doping is a critical factor in the development of new superconductors or optimizing the superconducting transition temperature (T
c) of the parent superconducting materials. Here, a new simple urea approach is developed to synthesize the N-doped α-Mo2C. Benefiting from the simple urea method, a broad superconducting dome is found in the Mo2C1−x
N
x
(0 ⩽ x ⩽ 0.49) compositions. X-ray diffraction results show that the structure of α-Mo2C remains unchanged and there is a variation of lattice parameters with nitrogen doping. Resistivity, magnetic susceptibility, and heat capacity measurement results confirm that T
c was strongly increased from 2.68 K (x = 0) to 7.05 K (x = 0.49). First-principles calculations and our analysis indicate that increasing nitrogen doping leads to a rise in the density of states at the Fermi level and doping-induced phonon softening, which enhances electron–phonon coupling. This results in an increase in T
c and a sharp rise in the upper critical field. Our findings provide a promising strategy for fabricating transition metal carbonitrides and provide a material platform for further study of the superconductivity of transition metal carbides.
Preparation and adsorptive performance study of amino modified-crosslinked composite aerogel for VOCs in wooden furniture
Authors: Li Qian , Feng Panpan , Qian Mingyuan
Published: September 2024

There is a lack of standards for harmful VOC substances in furniture products in China, and furniture’s peculiar smell is still a hot concern for society. Amino modified-crosslinked composite aerogel was prepared using a modified sol-gel method by incorporating chitosan and inorganic silica as the inorganic phase, and it was added to polyurethane coating (PU paint) and wooden substrate. Results indicated that the prepared amino modified-crosslinked composite aerogel had a pore size of 12 μm to 16 μm, retaining the lightweight structure and mesoporous characteristics of the gel while containing the active organic groups of chitosan. It exhibited a certain adsorption capacity for VOCs in both PU paint and wooden substrate, with the highest adsorption efficiency observed in fir, reaching 72.86%. These results demonstrate the feasibility of this method and suggest a new approach to pollution prevention and control in wooden furniture. It holds promising potential for scalable applications.
Effect of surface micro-texture morphology on the wettability of aluminum alloy on B4C surface
Authors: Dai Yuchi , Liu Jia , Shi Yan
Published: September 2024

To enhance the wettability of AlSi10Mg on the B4C surface, a 2D laminar two-phase flow, phase-field coupled multi-field model is utilized to investigate the effect of surface micro-texture morphology on the wettability of AlSi10Mg on B4C surfaces and optimize the morphology of the micro-texture with the best improvement of the interfacial wetting effect. The results of the study show that compared to the square texture, the conical texture has a better effect on the improvement of the wettability of the interface. The best wettability of AlSi10Mg on the B4C surface was obtained at a 1:1 depth-to-width ratio of the conical texture, and the contact angle of the Al droplet is 47.9, which is improved by 21.22% compared to that of the smooth interface. The interfacial wetting state is transformed from the Wenzel state to the Cassie state with the increasing depth-to-width ratio of the textures, and the wettability of the interface deteriorates.
Research on hydrogen distribution of electroless nickel plating on aluminum-based silicon carbide composites
Authors: Wang Nan , Cui Qingxin , Li Sizhen , Wang Jingrun , Li Jiafeng , Wang Xuguang , Xu Junjie , Tong Xiaobo , Wang Jun
Published: September 2024

Aluminum-based silicon carbide composite materials have the characteristics of high thermal conductivity, low thermal expansion, and good dimensional stability. Therefore, the composites are widely used in space microwave component shell products. In order to meet the functional requirements of conductivity, welding, and heat dissipation when applied to antenna microwave components, aluminum-based silicon carbide composite materials need to be chemically plated with nickel, which introduces hydrogen, thus requiring research on hydrogen release and control. Here, SEM, XRD, and other methods are used to characterize the microstructure of aluminum-based silicon carbide substrate and nickel plating layer. There are certain pore structures in both the substrate and plating layer, providing a place for hydrogen storage. The experimental method of hydrogen microprinting has been used to characterize the distribution of hydrogen. The results showed that the hydrogen distribution pattern in aluminum-based silicon carbide nickel plating is as follows: after nickel plating on aluminum-based silicon carbide, hydrogen is distributed in the nickel plating layer and the shallow substrate under the coating; with the extension of time, hydrogen spontaneously diffuses to the deep substrate; hydrogen is mainly distributed in the Al matrix and less on SiC particles.
Study on the dilution mechanism of laser-cladding AlCoCrFeNi high-entropy alloy coatings
Authors: Li Ying , Shi Yongjun
Published: September 2024

High-performance AlCoCrFeNi high-entropy alloy (HEA) coating is manufactured by employing laser cladding to enhance the wear-resistant properties of 45# steel. Finite element simulations and experiments are combined to examine the effects of dilution rate on coating properties. The findings demonstrate that the rate of dilution increases as the speed of the laser scan increases, leading to a noticeably greater Fe concentration in the coating. Due to the low solidification rate at 4 mm/s, a moderate convection can be formed, which leaves the Fe content comparable to that of the other elements. Convection of the melt pool is exacerbated by the faster scanning speed, which allows more Fe to flow from the substrate into the coating and raises Fe concentration. The average values of microhardness are 581.54 HV, 601.86 HV, and 276.75 HV at scanning speeds of 4, 6, and 8 mm/s, respectively. Moderate dilution of the substrate can increase the microhardness, while excessive dilution can lead to a higher Fe concentration in the coating, which seriously deteriorates the properties. This study provides a guide to fabricating high-performance AlCoCrFeNi HEA coatings for 45# steel.
The sealing performance of PTFE O-rings at low temperature
Authors: Wang Jing , Hao Haijun
Published: September 2024

Polytetrafluoroethylene (PTFE) has the advantages of high chemical stability, wide operating temperature range, excellent lubrication, etc. It is widely used in aerospace, automotive industry and other engineering fields and plays an important role in sealing applications of low-temperature media. However, in practical engineering applications, the design of PTFE O-rings in low-temperature variable-temperature working conditions lacks a reference basis. Based on the sealing structure of low-temperature pressure vessel, this paper establishes a two-dimensional axisymmetric model using the finite element analysis software Abaqus to study the sealing performance of PTFE O-rings in the static sealing system, and analyzes the effects of temperature, compression rate, cold shrinkage on the deformation of the PTFE O-rings, the Mises stresses, and the contact pressure.
Enhanced hydrolysis of spiramycin in aqueous solution using SiO2/SO3H
Authors: Lyu Hongyu , Chen Shuai , Zhang Rong , Zhang Chunliang , Jiang Ruiruo , Yang Wen
Published: September 2024

Sulfonated silicon dioxide (SiO2/SO3H) solid acids were synthesized and they were characterized and used for spiramycin hydrolysis pretreatment of antibiotic wastewater. Results show that the spiramycin removal effect rankings are as follows: SiO2/SO3H > SiO2 (pH = 3 or so) > control group. A first-order model was used to reflect the hydrolytic kinetics. The hydrolysis rate of the SiO2/SO3H solid acid calcined at 600°C is the highest, up to 3.59×10−2 (k). The performance of SiO2/SO3H is in positive correlation with the total acidity, which was determined by using the n-butylamine titration method. This hydrolytic method eliminates the need for the on-site handling of hazardous and corrosive mineral acids. As an attractive selective catalytic pretreatment method, it is targeted at removing related functional groups from antibiotics to reduce the inhibitory effect and allow antibiotic wastewater to further be easily biologically treated.
Physically crosslinked polyvinyl alcohol hydrogel for electromagnetic shielding
Authors: Liu Zian , Wu Yufeng , Zhang Zheng , Xie Xinyu , Cao Wanting , Xu Jianchun , Huang Kai
Published: September 2024

As military and civilian electronic communication technologies advance rapidly, there is a growing interest in the design and study of high-performance materials for electromagnetic shielding. In marine environments especially, the use of devices like wireless communication, radar, and satellite navigation is common. Hydrogels, a type of porous material, possess characteristics such as low density, high surface area, and exceptional flexibility. Conductive hydrogel materials, which combine the benefits of conductive and hydrogel materials, exhibit conductivity, adjustable mechanical flexibility, and ease of processing. They also have strong electromagnetic wave absorption capabilities. To enhance the effectiveness of electromagnetic shielding in the broadband range of 5-18 GHz, we propose a method to create polyvinyl alcohol hydrogel through physical cross-linking. This involves preparing the hydrogel using the freeze/thaw technique and then physically cross-linking it by submerging it in various salt solutions. Our method significantly improves the electromagnetic shielding effectiveness, with the hydrogel in magnesium chloride solution showing the greatest enhancement in performance, achieving a ~7 dB improvement across different frequencies. The physical cross-linking approach for hydrogel preparation offers the benefits of simplicity and affordability, showcasing a noteworthy electromagnetic shielding effect with promising applications in the field.
Study on porous carbon materials derived from Chitosan
Authors: Wang Shasha , Tian Zhi , Zhao Jianlin , Xu Yuelong , Zhang Yangguang , Zhang Lihui
Published: September 2024

The materials with high specific surface area, uniform pore size distribution, and high nitrogen content were prepared by using chitosan as raw material and a low co-soluble mixture (lithium nitrate, potassium nitrate, and potassium sulfate) as a pore-forming agent and salt template agent. The CO2 adsorption capacity of the material was tested at 25°C (2.15 mmol/g) and 0°C (2.88 mmol/g). It was found that more pores and higher nitrogen content were conducive to the adsorption of CO2 by the material.
Nucleation promotion for the atomic layer deposition of HfO2 onto carbon nanotubes for device applications
Authors: Li Bingxian
Published: September 2024

The potential of semiconducting single-walled carbon nanotubes (CNTs) as the next-generation semiconductor information material as a successor to silicon-based technology is promising. However, a significant challenge for CNT based electronics at device level lies in the obtainment of high-quality gate dielectrics such as HfO2 on the dangling bond-free and chemically inert surface of CNTs. To address this issue, this paper studies the atomic layer deposition (ALD) of HfO2 onto the surface of carbon-based materials, and focuses on how to promote the nucleation via two methods, i.e. low-temperature Nanofog method and high-temperature variable parameter method. Both methods are confirmed to be effective in improving the continuity and uniformity of ALD HfO2 films.