bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
High triplet energy host material with a 1,3,5-oxadiazine core from a one-step interrupted Fischer indolization
Authors: Riley Charlotte , Cho Hwan-Hee , Brannan Alexander C. , Le Phuoc Nguyen , Linnolahti Mikko , Greenham Neil C. , Romanov Alexander S.
Published: December 2024

Energy-efficient and deep-blue organic light-emitting diode (OLED) with long operating stability remains a key challenge to enable a disruptive change in OLED display and lighting technology. Part of the challenge is associated with a very narrow choice of the robust host materials having over 3 eV triplet energy level to facilitate efficient deep-blue emission and deliver excellent performance in the OLED device. Here we show the molecular design of new 1,3,5-oxadiazines (NON)-host materials with high triplet energy over 3.2 eV, enabling deep-blue OLED devices with a peak external quantum efficiency of 21%. A series of NON-host materials are prepared by the condensation of substituted arylhydrazines and cyclohexylcarbaldehyde in a 2:3 ratio. This straightforward “one-pot” procedure enables the formation of indoline-containing derivatives with three fused heterocyclic rings and two stereogenic centres. All materials emit UV-fluorescence in the range of 315–338 nm while possessing highly desirable characteristics for application in deep-blue OLED devices: good thermal stability, a wide energy gap (3.9 eV), a high triplet energy level of (3.3 eV), and excellent volatility during sublimation.
Near-term carbon dioxide removal deployment can minimize disruptive pace of decarbonization and economic risks towards United States’ net-zero goal
Authors: Adun Humphrey , Ampah Jeffrey Dankwa , Bamisile Olusola , Hu Yihua , Staffell Iain , Gilani Haris R.
Published: December 2024

Deep decarbonization is essential for achieving the Paris Agreement goals, and carbon dioxide removal is required to address residual emissions and achieve net-zero targets. However, the implications of delaying the deployment of removal technologies remain unclear. We quantify how different carbon removal methods and their deployment timing affect achieving net zero emissions by 2050 in the United States. Our findings show that postponing novel technologies until mid-century forces accelerated decarbonization of energy-intensive sectors, reducing residual emissions by at least 12% compared with near-term deployment of carbon dioxide removal. This delay increases transition costs, requiring carbon prices 59–79% higher than with near-term deployment. It also heightens the risk of premature fossil fuel retirement in the electricity sector, leading to 128–220 billion USD losses compared to gradual scale up starting now. A balanced, near-term co-deployment of novel removal methods mitigates risks associated with relying on a single approach  and addresses sustainability and scalability concerns.
Regional cooling potential from expansion of perennial grasses in Europe
Authors: Zhang Xia , Huang Bo , Rinke Dias de Souza Nariê , Hu Xiangping , Cherubini Francesco
Published: December 2024

Perennial grasses are an option to mitigate global warming, increase energy security, and alleviate environmental pressures within agricultural landscapes. Their cultivation alters near-surface temperature in ways that are still largely unclear. Here, a regional climate model with an enhanced representation of perennial grasses shows that converting today’s cropland areas in Europe induces annual mean temperature reductions in summer and autumn (up to –1 °C), which are primarily driven by a later harvest of perennial grasses relative to annual crops. Cultivation of perennial grasses where they deliver stronger biogeophysical cooling can achieve a similar annual mean temperature reduction on half of the land. This cooling can counteract up to 50% of the projected future warming and it is three times larger than what is achieved via carbon emission reductions. A sustainable deployment of perennial grasses has the potential to link global mitigation objectives with co-benefits for the local climate and environment.
Increasing timber and declining live plant diversity and volumes in global trade from 2000 to 2020
Authors: Naqinezhad Alireza , Morton Oscar , Edwards David P.
Published: December 2024

Plants are a vast, lucrative portion of global wildlife trade and the most speciose clade listed under the Convention on International Trade in Endangered Species of Wild Fauna and Flora-CITES. Here we used the CITES Trade Database and >420,000 records between 2000 and 2020 and assessed the diversity and volume of wild-sourced CITES-listed plants across space and time. Between 2000–2020, over 8.4 million cubic metres of timber, 197 million individual live plants, and 4.6 million kilograms of plant products were traded under CITES, comprising 53, 765, and 74 species, respectively. Most species are traded between key exporter and importer nations, especially China, USA, and Europe. Total diversity of timber species and volumes increased over time, whereas live diversity declined, and product diversity and mass fluctuated uncertainly. Most species were not evaluated by the International Union for the Conservation of Nature (IUCN) Red List when first traded, with high volumes of timber and products concentrated among threatened taxa. The high prevalence of poorly understood species necessitates enhanced rigour in ensuring sustainable CITES trade.
A prospective cohort study of cochlear implantation as a treatment for tinnitus in post-lingually deafened individuals
Authors: Wang Qian , Kapolowicz Michelle R. , Li Jia-Nan , Ji Fei , Shen Wei-Dong , Wang Fang-Yuan , Chen Wei , Guo Wei-Wei , Zhang Chi , Liu Ri-Yuan , Zhang Miao , Hong Meng-Di , Chen Ai-Ting , Zeng Fan-Gang , Yang Shi-Ming
Published: December 2024

Background

Cochlear implants have helped over one million individuals restore functional hearing globally, but their clinical utility in suppressing tinnitus has not been firmly established.

Methods

In a decade-long study, we examined longitudinal effects of cochlear implants on tinnitus in 323 post-lingually deafened individuals including 211 with pre-existing tinnitus and 112 without tinnitus. The primary endpoints were tinnitus loudness and tinnitus handicap inventory. The secondary endpoints were speech recognition, anxiety and sleep quality.

Results

Here we show that after 24 month implant usage, the tinnitus cohort experience 58% reduction in tinnitus loudness (on a 0–10 scale from 4.3 baseline to 1.8 = −2.5, 95% CI: −2.7 to −2.2, p = 3 x 10−6; effect size d’ = −1.4,) and 44% in tinnitus handicap inventory (=−21.2, 95% CI: −24.5 to −17.9, p = 1 x 10−15; d’=−1.0). Conversely, only 3.6% of those without pre-existing tinnitus develop it post-implantation. Prior to implantation, the tinnitus cohort have lower speech recognition, higher anxiety and poorer sleep quality than the non-tinnitus cohort, measured by Mandarin monosyllabic words, Zung Self-rating Anxiety Scale and Pittsburgh Sleep Quality Index, respectively. Although the 24 month implant usage eliminate the group difference in speech and anxiety measures, the tinnitus cohort still face significant sleep difficulties likely due to the tinnitus coming back when the device was inactive at night.

Conclusions

The present result shows that cochlear implantation can offer an alternative effective treatment for tinnitus. The present result also identifies a critical need in developing always-on and atraumatic devices for tinnitus patients, including potentially those with normal hearing.
Metacognition biases information seeking in assessing ambiguous news
Authors: Guigon Valentin , Villeval Marie Claire , Dreher Jean-Claude
Published: December 2024

How do we assess the veracity of ambiguous news, and does metacognition guide our decisions to seek further information? In a controlled experiment, participants evaluated the veracity of ambiguous news and decided whether to seek extra information. Confidence in their veracity judgments did not predict accuracy, showing limited metacognitive ability when facing ambiguous news. Despite this, confidence in one’s judgment was the primary driver of the demand for additional information about the news. Lower confidence predicted a stronger desire for extra information, regardless of the veracity judgment. Two key news characteristics led individuals to confidently misinterpret both true and fake news. News imprecision and news tendency to polarize opinions increased the likelihood of misjudgment, highlighting individuals’ vulnerability to ambiguity. Structural equation modeling revealed that the demand for disambiguating information, driven by uncalibrated metacognition, became increasingly ineffective as individuals are drawn in by the ambiguity of the news. Our results underscore the importance of metacognitive abilities in mediating the relationship between assessing ambiguous information and the decision to seek or avoid more information.
Urban inequality, the housing crisis and deteriorating water access in US cities
Authors: Meehan Katie , Jurjevich Jason R. , Everitt Lucy , Chun Nicholas M.J.W. , Sherrill Justin
Published: December 2024

The housing unaffordability and cost-of-living crisis is affecting millions of people in US cities, yet the implications for urban dwellers’ well-being and social reproduction remain less clear. This Article presents a longitudinal analysis of household access to running water—a vital component of social infrastructure—in the 50 largest US cities since 1970. The results indicate that water access has worsened in an increasing number and typology of US cities since the 2008 global financial crash, disproportionately affecting households of color in 12 of the 15 largest cities. We provide evidence to suggest that a ‘reproductive squeeze’—systemic, compounding pressures on households’ capacity to reproduce themselves on a daily and societal basis—is forcing urban households into more precarious living arrangements, including housing without running water. We analyze the case study of Portland (Oregon) to illustrate the racialized nature of the reproductive squeeze under a housing crisis. Our insights reveal that plumbing poverty—a lack of household running water—is expanding in scope and severity to a broader array of US cities, raising doubts about equitable progress towards Sustainable Development Goals for clean water and sanitation for all (SDG 6) and sustainable cities (SDG 11) in an increasingly urbanized United States.
Non-enzymatic posttranslational protein modifications in protein aggregation and neurodegenerative diseases
Authors: Baldensperger Tim , Preissler Miriam , Becker Christian F. W.
Published: December 2024

In this review we summarize the known non-enzymatic posttranslational modifications (nPTMs) of proteins involved in neurodegeneration and discuss illustrative examples of such nPTMs studied using sophisticated protein engineering approaches.
Strain-release trifluoromethoxylation and pentafluorosulfanoxylation of [1.1.0]bicyclobutanes: expanded access to fluorinated cyclobutane hybrid bioisosteres
Authors: Kraemer Yannick , Stephens Alexander M. , Buldt Jón Atiba , Young Aurelius , McLoughlin Connor P. , Fettinger James C. , Holder Lauren M. , Pitts Cody Ross
Published: December 2024

Methods for formal bromo-trifluoromethoxylation and bromo-pentafluorosulfanoxylation of [1.1.0]bicyclobutanes using AgOCF3 or AgOSF5 and 1,3-dibromo-5,5-dimethylhydantoin are disclosed.
High-responsivity β-Ga2O3/GaN heterojunction UV photodetectors with tunable multi-band detection capability
Authors: Nan Yang , Liu Chenxing , Zhai Hongchao , Wu Siyu , Wu Zhengyuan , Tian Pengfei , Guo Daoyou , Tang Weihua , Fang Zhilai
Published: December 2024

The β-Ga2O3/GaN heterojunction photodetector exhibits an exceptional solar-blind photodetection at zero bias and spectral response modulation with distinct UVC-dominated and broadband UVA/UVC detection modes by varying the applied bias voltage.
Z-type heterojunction degradation of tetracycline by 2D g-C3N4 with 3D oxygen vacancy Bi2WO6
Authors: Kang Xiao , Li Xiangyan , Abulizi Abulikemu , Abulimiti Mihiriguli , Ailijiang Nuerla , Mamat Anwar
Published: December 2024

CN/BWO OVs Z-type photocatalysts were successfully synthesised and showed effective photocatalytic degradation of TC solutions.
Estimation of PEMFC optimal parameters based on an improved butterfly optimization algorithm
Authors: Sun Zhe , Song Yan , Du Yijun , Sun Zhixin
Published: December 2024

This paper introduces a novel butterfly optimization algorithm, called the spiral search and dynamic crossover based butterfly optimization algorithm (SCBO), for parameter estimation in proton exchange membrane fuel cell (PEMFC) models.
Unlocking the potential of Ni-rich LiNi0.9Co0.1O2 cathodes: a DFT investigation of performance-limiting factors
Authors: Ikuerowo Temitayo Ojuetimi , Tomomewo Olusegun , Akande Salawu Omotayo
Published: December 2024

Ni-rich layered oxide, LiNi0.9Co0.1O2, a material of considerable interest for high-capacity lithium-ion battery cathodes, has been investigated using first-principles methods.
Tuning anomalous Hall conductivity via antiferromagnetic configurations in GdPtBi
Authors: Murdaka Fiqhri Heda , Wicaksono Yusuf , Suprayoga Edi , Pradipto Abdul-Muizz , Prijamboedi Bambang , Watanabe Isao , Nugroho Agustinus Agung
Published: December 2024

The DFT study of the magnetic, electronic, and topological properties of GdPtBi reveals tunable triple-point semimetal nodes and anomalous Hall conductivity in AFM⊥ states with varying in-plane angles (ϕ) of the Gd magnetic moments.
Conformational effects in the identification and quantification of ketohydroperoxides in the oxidation of n-pentane
Authors: Li Dongyang , Li Deshan , Herbinet Olivier , Huang Jiabin , Garcia Gustavo A. , Arnoux Philippe , Tran Luc-Sy , Vanhove Guillaume , Nahon Laurent , Hochlaf Majdi , Carstensen Hans-Heinrich , Battin-Leclerc Frédérique , Bloino Julien , Zhang Feng , Bourgalais Jérémy
Published: December 2024

Using synchrotron-based VUV spectroscopy and theoretical quantum calculations, this work identifies distinct conformers in ketohydroperoxides and their impact on dissociative ionization, advancing molecular-level insights into oxidation processes.
Nanostructured bismuth ferrite nanoparticles: synthesis, characterization, electrical/magnetic properties and photocatalytic performance
Authors: Ghozza M. H. , Mosleh Ahmed T. , Kamoun Elbadawy A. , Abdel-Aty Mahmoud , Alfiras M. , Ahmed Mohamed Hafez , Alkhazaleh Shawkat , Ganesh V. , Zahran H. Y. , Yahia Ibrahim S.
Published: December 2024

Nanostructured bismuth ferrite (BiFeO3) single-phase nanoparticles with 76.2% crystallinity and 100% perovskite structure were synthesized using a co-precipitation method.
What comes next: the fate of germa-, stanna-, and plumba-closo-dodecaborate based electrolytes in calcium ion batteries
Authors: Faizan Mohmmad , Pawar Ravinder
Published: December 2024

Recent investigations on plumba- and stanna-closo-dodecaborate-based electrolytes for alkali metal-ion batteries have demonstrated improved ionic conductivities at elevated temperatures.
The overlooked solvent effects: a reconsideration of the paradigm in semiconductor photocatalysis
Authors: Wu Xuejiao , Van Waeyenberg Jonathan , Vangestel Dario , Sels Bert
Published: December 2024

This perspective explores the crucial yet underexplored topic of solvent effects in semiconductor photocatalysis, emphasizing both the challenges and the opportunities.
A novel route to synthesize Bi/β-Bi2O3@carbon: mechanism and performance for efficient degradation of organic pollutants
Authors: Zhang Xia , Zhang Yifang , Yang Xitong , Han Jiaxin , Zhu Guifen , Fan Jing
Published: December 2024

Synergistic effects of components in Bi/β-Bi2O3@carbon enhance the activity. Electron-deficient species attack FWA351, resulting in breaking of CC bonds and opening of aromatic rings, ultimately mineralizing into CO2, H2O and inorganic salts.
Effect of intracellular algal organic matter and nitrate on disinfection byproduct formation in chlorinated water after UV/H2O2 and UV/Cl2 advanced oxidation processes
Authors: Barancheshme Fateme , Keen Olya S.
Published: December 2024

The type of advanced oxidation process is less consequential than the background water quality for formation of regulated disinfection byproducts, with nitrate and bromide being of particular significance.
A machine learning framework to predict PPCP removal through various wastewater and water reuse treatment trains
Authors: Choi Joung Min , Manthapuri Vineeth , Keenum Ishi , Brown Connor L. , Xia Kang , Chen Chaoqi , Vikesland Peter J. , Blair Matthew F. , Bott Charles , Pruden Amy , Zhang Liqing
Published: December 2024

ML Framework for PPCPs fate in WWTPs.
Supplementing the standard diet with brown rice bran powder might effectively improve the metabolic syndrome characteristics and antioxidant status: an open label randomized controlled trial
Authors: Ghorbani Zeinab , Shoaibinobarian Nargeskhatoon , Zamani Ehsan , Salari Arsalan , Mahdavi-Roshan Marjan , Porteghali Parham , Ahmadnia Zahra
Published: December 2024

This study explores the impact of brown rice bran powder (BRBP), known for its beneficial components, such as dietary fiber and γ-oryzanol, on individuals suffering from metabolic syndrome (MetS).
Green preparation of porous electrodes containing Si via sublimation and regeneration of nanostructured terephthalic acid for enhanced Li-ion storage
Authors: Qiao Yuan , Kamali Ali Reza
Published: December 2024

This article presents a green strategy for sustainably fabricating porous silicon electrodes for high-performance Li-ion batteries, utilising the sublimation and regeneration of nanostructured terephthalic acid.
Selective adsorption and separation of C6 hydrocarbons: the role of structural flexibility and functionalization in zeolitic imidazolate frameworks
Authors: Dedecker Kevin , Drobek Martin , Julbe Anne
Published: December 2024

This work demonstrates selective C6 hydrocarbon separation using functionalized ZIFs, revealing tunable adsorption via structural flexibility and host–guest interactions.
Dual EGFR and telomerase inhibitory potential of new triazole tethered Schiff bases endowed with apoptosis: design, synthesis, and biological assessments
Authors: Zeidan Mohamed A. , Ashour Heba F. , Yassen Asmaa S. A. , Abo Elmaaty Ayman , Farag Ayman B. , Sharaky Marwa , Abdullah Alzahrani Abdullah Yahya , Mughram Mohammed H. AL , Al-Karmalawy Ahmed A.
Published: December 2024

Design and synthesis of new triazole tethered Schiff bases acting as dual EGFR and telomerase inhibitors and endowed with apoptotic potential.
High-performance triboelectric nanogenerator employing a swing-induced counter-rotating motion mechanism and a dual potential energy storage and release strategy for wave energy harvesting
Authors: Wang Feixiang , Cao Bao , Shu Leilei , Li Zhe , He Wen , Wang Zhongzhu , Wang Peihong
Published: December 2024

A triboelectric nanogenerator, based on swing-induced counter-rotating motion mechanism and a dual potential energy storage and release strategy, is presented to harvest wave energy efficiently.
A ketimine–ketoenamine-linked porous organic polymer: synthesis, characterization and applications
Authors: Cui Guoxin , Li Yan , Yun Guan , Zhao Yongzheng , Gu Peng , Li Jing , Zhang Jinghan , Cui Shuxin , Liu Minghao , Zeng Weiqi , Wang Zhenlu , Jiang Jian
Published: December 2024

A novel porous organic polymer was prepared, exhibiting high stability, a large surface area, solid-state fluorescence emission, high carbon dioxide uptake capacity, and efficient performance as a heterogeneous catalyst for Knoevenagel condensation.
Ag@Ca-MOF composite: a dual-function material for luminescence detection and dose reliant photocatalytic breakdown of Bisphenol A
Authors: Shukla Vibhav , Aalam Gulshitab , Ali S. Wazed , Ahamd Musheer , Haq Nazrul , Siddiqui Kafeel Ahmad
Published: December 2024

A silver-doped calcium-based MOF (Ag@Ca-MOF) achieved 92.81% photocatalytic degradation of Bisphenol A, outperforming Ca-MOF (37.52%), with enhanced antimicrobial and antioxidant properties.
Correction: Activation of the catalytic function of formaldehyde dehydrogenase for formate reduction by single-electron reduced methylviologen
Authors: Ishibashi T. , Ikeyama S. , Amao Y.
Published: December 2024

Correction for ‘Activation of the catalytic function of formaldehyde dehydrogenase for formate reduction by single-electron reduced methylviologen’ by T. Ishibashi et al., New J. Chem., 2018, 42, 18508–18512, https://doi.org/10.1039/C8NJ02211A.
Superparamagnetic nanoparticles as potential drug delivery systems for the treatment of Duchenne muscular dystrophy
Authors: Schumacher Maria L. , Britos Tatiane N. , Fonseca Fernando L. A. , Ferreira Fabio F. , Feder David , Fratini Paula , Petri Giuliana , Haddad Paula S.
Published: December 2024

This study aims to use superparamagnetic iron oxide nanoparticles (SPIONs), specifically magnetite (Fe3O4), to deliver deflazacort (DFZ) and ibuprofen (IBU) to Duchenne muscular dystrophy-affected (DMD).
Tin chalcohalide Sn11(PS4)4I10 obtained from structural-template-oriented synthesis: exhibiting balanced infrared nonlinear optical performance
Authors: Deng Cuier , Xu Xi , Hu Yuhan , Guo Jingyu , Wu Li-Ming , Chen Ling
Published: December 2024

Tin chalcohalide Sn11(PS4)4I10 is a balanced-performance IR NLO material obtained by structural-template-oriented synthesis.
Boron quantum dot powered anthracite-derived carbon anode achieving enhanced reaction kinetics and superior sodium storage capability
Authors: Zhang Junzhe , Hu Xinlong , Zhang Danfeng , Zhao Hongming , Wang Liyong , He Yan-Bing , Wang Huiqi
Published: December 2024

A protocol for powering an anthracite-based carbon anode by embedding BQDs within it would inspire far-ranging interest in advanced sodium-ion batteries.
Visible-light-induced dehydrogenation of dihydroquinolinones via the combination of energy transfer and hydrogen atom transfers
Authors: Feng Jin , Tang Hanguang , Guo Hao , Ding Aishun
Published: December 2024

A visible-light-induced dehydrogenation of dihydroquinolinones was developed using photocatalyst thioxanthone (TX) and oxidant tert-butyl benzoperoxoate.
From conventional to dual Co/photoredox mediated reductive coupling of alkynes and alkenes
Authors: Tóth Balázs L. , Amos Stephanie G. E. , Kleij Arjan W.
Published: December 2024

The conventional and more recent metallaphotoredox-mediated reductive Co-catalysis for the coupling of olefins and alkynes is highlighted demonstrating the great potential of these approaches for the creation of advanced and complex synthons.
Optimization and techno-economic evaluation of an integrated process route for the synthesis of vinyl chloride monomer
Authors: Akintola Joseph , Patinvoh Regina , Moradeyo Odunlami , Akpan Joseph , Umoh Gabriel , Wilson Ekpotu , Moses Queen , Udom Philemon , Osagie Edose
Published: December 2024

This study reports a unique approach combining ethylene dichloride and vinylation to produce vinyl chloride that is both energy efficient and reduces chlorinated hydrocarbons, with the potential to enhance sustainable large-scale production plant set-up.
Characterization and reuse of SiC flakes generated during electrochemical etching of 4H-SiC wafers
Authors: Barcellona Matteo , Spanò Vanessa , Fiorenza Roberto , Scirè Salvatore , Defforge Thomas , Gautier Gaël , Fragalà Maria Elena
Published: December 2024

Silicon carbide porous flakes are produced during the electrochemical etching (ECE) of n-doped 4H-SiC wafers. The differences in porosity between the Si-face and C-face allow for the adsorption of various dyes.
An n-type ionic thermoelectric hydrogel with confined cation diffusion for boosted low-grade heat harvesting
Authors: Li Simin , Xu Yinghong , Li Zhiwei , Zhang Shengliang , Dou Hui , Zhang Xiaogang
Published: December 2024

An n-type ionic thermoelectric hydrogel with high thermopower and superior output power density was demonstrated through coordination and electrostatic interactions between cations and functional groups.
Selective superwettability coated surface with proactive anti-crude-oil-fouling property
Authors: Wang Zhecun , Cui Zhanyuan , Shao Yubing , Zhang Jinghan
Published: December 2024

Based on its finely designed structure and chemical composition, a selective superwettability coating surface with proactive anti-crude-oil-fouling properties is achieved by a simple method for various crude-oil-related applications.
Correction: Atomic-scale structure and thermoelectric properties in medium-entropy PbSnTeSe alloy
Authors: Zhang Shuwei , Xu Liqing , Cheng Xinxiu , Liu Wei , Yin Zhanxiang , Ding Xiangdong , Gao Xiang , Hong Tao , Xiao Yu
Published: December 2024

Correction for ‘Atomic-scale structure and thermoelectric properties in medium-entropy PbSnTeSe alloy’ by Shuwei Zhang et al., J. Mater. Chem. A, 2024, https://doi.org/10.1039/D4TA05952B.
Water-soluble CaO sacrificial layer heteroepitaxially grown on yttria-stabilized zirconia substrate for large ferroelectric BaTiO3 sheets
Authors: Zhou Weikun , Gong Lizhikun , Mitsuya Ren , Chen Diwen , Ohta Hiromichi , Katayama Tsukasa
Published: December 2024

The freestanding BTO films obtained using a water-soluble CaO sacrificial layer and YSZ (110)-oriented substrate exhibit excellent ferroelectric and piezoelectric properties.
Bio-inspired helical EGaIn/TPU conductive fibers fabricated by a twisted coating method for flexible electronics
Authors: Tang Junwei , Chen Shangbi , Wen Ziqi , Zhang Zifeng , Sheng Bin , Wang Jing
Published: December 2024

The prepared HETFs have excellent strain sensing performance, can be woven into smart fabrics to monitor human movement and transformed into a stretchable electrode, DHETFs can be used as a non-contact sensor to monitor a finger in proximity.
Environmental Science: Advances – four years of diverse and holistic visions
Authors: Jones Kevin C. , Manaia Célia , Cai Zongwei
Published: December 2024

Editors-in-Chief Kevin Jones, Zongwei Cai and Célia M. Manaia reflect on the third year of Environmental Science: Advances.
Adding a twist to the loops: the role of DNA superhelicity in the organization of chromosomes by SMC protein complexes
Authors: Valdés Antonio , Haering Christian H.
Published: December 2024

Structural maintenance of chromosomes (SMC) protein complexes, including cohesin, condensin, and the Smc5/6 complex, are integral to various processes in chromosome biology. Despite their distinct roles, these complexes share two key properties: the ability to extrude DNA into large loop structures and the capacity to alter the superhelicity of the DNA double helix. In this review, we explore the influence of eukaryotic SMC complexes on DNA topology, debate its potential physiological function, and discuss new structural insights that may explain how these complexes mediate changes in DNA topology.
Higher circulating ACE2 and DPP3 but reduced ACE and angiotensinogen in hyperreninemic sepsis patients
Authors: Chappell Mark C. , Schaich Christopher L. , Busse Laurence W. , Clark Files D. , Martin Greg S. , Sevransky Jonathan E. , Hinson Jeremiah S. , Rothman Richard E. , Khanna Ashish K. ,   Vitamin C, Thiamine and Steroids in Sepsis (VICTAS) Investigators
Published: December 2024

Sepsis and septic shock are global healthcare problems associated with high mortality rates. Activation of the renin-angiotensin-aldosterone system (RAAS) is an early event in sepsis, and elevated renin may be predictive of worse outcomes. In a subset of sepsis patients enrolled in the Vitamin C, Thiamine and Steroids in Sepsis (VICTAS) trial, elevated levels of active renin (median value > 189 pg/mL or 5.1 pM) at baseline (day 0) were strongly associated with mortality; however, corresponding plasma levels of the vasopressor hormone Angiotensin II were not substantially increased nor was Angiotensin II associated with disease severity. The current study assessed RAAS components that may impact the Angiotensin II response in control subjects, normal renin sepsis (NRS, renin < 5.1 pM) and high renin sepsis (HRS, renin > 5.1 pM) patients. NRS and HRS subjects exhibited a similar reduction in ACE (40%), but increased levels of ACE2 and DPP3. The ACE to DPP3 ratio was higher in controls but this relationship was reversed in both NRS and HRS subjects. Intact angiotensinogen was 50% lower in the HRS than control or NRS subjects, whereas the intact angiotensinogen to renin ratio was <10% of control or NRS subjects. We conclude that altered expression of ACE, ACE2, DPP3 and angiotensinogen may attenuate the expected increase in Angiotensin II, particularly in sepsis subjects with high renin concentrations.
Feasibility and Repeatability of an Abbreviated Auditory Perceptual and Cognitive Test Battery
Authors: Cherri Dana , Ozmeral Erol J. , Gallun Frederick J. , Seitz Aaron R. , Eddins David A.
Published: December 2024

Purpose:

Auditory perceptual and cognitive tasks can be useful as a long-term goal in guiding rehabilitation and intervention strategies in audiology clinics that mostly operate at a faster pace and on strict timelines. The rationale of this study was to assess test–retest reliability of an abbreviated test battery and evaluate age-related auditory perceptual and cognitive effects on these measures.

Method:

Experiment 1 evaluated the test–retest repeatability of an abbreviated test battery and its use in an adverse listening environment. Ten participants performed two visits, each including four conditions: quiet, background noise, external noise, and background mixed with external noise. In Experiment 2, both auditory perceptual and cognitive assessments were collected from younger adults with normal hearing and older adults with and without hearing loss. The full test battery included measures of frequency selectivity, temporal fine structure and envelope processing, spectrotemporal and spatial processing and cognition, and an external measure of tolerance to background noise.

Results:

Results from Experiment 1 showed good test–retest repeatability and nonsignificant effects from background or external noise. In Experiment 2, effects of age and hearing loss were shown across auditory perceptual and cognitive measures, except in measures of temporal envelope perception and tolerance to background noise.

Conclusions:

These data support the use of an abbreviated test battery in relatively uncontrolled listening environments such as clinic waiting rooms. With an efficient test battery, perceptual and cognitive deficits can be assessed with minimal resources and little clinician involvement due to the automated nature of the test and the use of consumer-grade technology.

Supplemental Material:

https://doi.org/10.23641/asha.28021070
Guest Editorial: Anomaly detection and open‐set recognition applications for computer vision
Authors: Cevikalp Hakan , Polikar Robi , Gerek Ömer Nezih , Chen Songcan , Geng Chuanxing
Published: December 2024

Anomaly detection is a method employed to identify data points or patterns that significantly deviate from expected or normal behaviour within a dataset. This approach aims to detect observations regarded as unusual, erroneous, anomalous, rare, or potentially indicative of fraudulent or malicious activity. Open‐set recognition, also referred to as open‐set identification or open‐set classification, is a pattern recognition task that extends traditional classification by addressing the presence of unknown or novel classes during the testing phase. This approach highlights a strong connection between anomaly detection and open‐set recognition, as both seek to identify samples originating from unknown classes or distributions. Open‐set recognition methods frequently involve modelling both known and unknown classes during training, allowing for the capture of the distribution of known classes while explicitly addressing the space of unknown classes. Techniques in open‐set recognition may include outlier detection, density estimation, or configuring decision boundaries to better differentiate between known and unknown classes. This special issue calls for original contributions introducing novel datasets, innovative architectures, and advanced training methods for tasks related to visual anomaly detection and open‐set recognition.
A power‐saving control voltage‐retention circuit for fast‐locking phase‐locked loops with sleep mode
Authors: Kim Min‐Ji , Lee Won‐Young
Published: December 2024

This study proposes a voltage‐retention circuit (VRC) for a low‐power phase‐locked loop (PLL) designed for mobile interfaces. The PLL, incorporating the proposed scheme, supports the sleep mode to achieve low power consumption and fast switching between the sleep and active modes. To facilitate rapid switching between these modes, the proposed VRC stores the filter information from the previous input during sleep mode, ensuring quick settling upon reactivation. The VRC comprises a resistor‐steering digital‐to‐analog converter (DAC), a comparator, and a counter. During the active mode, the circuit adjusts the DAC using the comparator and counter to track the loop‐filter voltage, and it holds the tracked voltage value during the sleep mode. The proposed circuit, designed using a 65‐nm CMOS process, demonstrates 54% improved settling time compared to conventional circuits. Additionally, it reduces power consumption during sleep mode by 88%.
Detection of characteristic component H2S in SF6 and SF6/N2 mixture using cavity ring‐down spectroscopy
Authors: Jiang Anhao , Zhang Chaohai , Zhu Min , Zhang Xiaoxing
Published: December 2024

A high‐sensitivity cavity ring‐down spectroscopy gas detection system with integrated optical components and embedded microprocessor units is presented for the detection of hydrogen sulfide (H2S) in sulphur hexafluoride (SF6) and its mixture with nitrogen (N2). The system exploits a periodic laser wavelength modulation to simplify the mode matching. Spectral line profile fitting is used for sample quantitative analysis. To verify the sensitivity and stability of concentration detection, the effect of background gas and temperature on the responses of spectral line broadening and absorption cross‐section are investigated. The result deviation caused by variation of background gas can be compensated by the pre‐correction of empty cavity ring‐down time. It is also found that the implication of temperature on the spectra cannot be ignored. The full width at half maximum and peak value decreased linearly with the increase of temperature, while the baseline is undergoing accelerated growth. Using Allan variance analysis, the limits of detection reach 4.44 × 10−9 in SF6 and 2.96 × 10−9 in N2 with average time of 67 s. This study provides a meaningful approach for the online detection of characteristic gas in gas insulation equipment.
Train operation simulation and capacity analysis for a high‐speed maglev station
Authors: Deng Lianbo , Zhang Ying , Jing Enwei , Li Yongjun , Li Hengxin
Published: December 2024

Focusing on the transportation organization characteristics of the high‐speed maglev station, this article simulates the train operation process based on the train running calculation and the train operation scheme for multi‐type trains, and analyzes the station capacity based on the simulation for multi‐type trains and typical‐layout stations. This study is carried out from the following three perspectives: (i) calculating train running in the train operation process, (ii) calculating the carrying capacity for single‐type trains, and (iii) simulating the train operation scheme at the station. By analyzing the running process and working conditions of a high‐speed maglev train during various operations, a kinematic model for the train running and a simulation method for the technical operation process based on the operation calculation are established. The simulation results for train running calculation are then used to determine the time required and the capacity for the station handing single‐type trains, which is the basis of analyzing multi‐type trains operations. In the simulation for operations of multi‐type trains, three simulation strategies are designed: track selection strategy, route segment lock/unlock strategy, and operation method choosing strategy. The operational process of a high‐speed maglev station under multi‐train and multi‐technology conditions is simulated based on the above strategies, and the capacity utilization of the station is calculated. The capacity utilization characteristics of typical‐layout stations and the recommended layouts for stations under different scenarios are given for capacity analysis and optimization.
Identifying abnormal driving states of drunk drivers using UAV
Authors: Zhou Guiliang , Xu Kaiwen , Chen Jian , Mao Lina
Published: December 2024

The rising number of car owners has increased the frequency of drunk driving‐related traffic accidents, which is a significant danger to traffic safety. Many drawbacks of traditional drunk driving detection techniques include missed detection, interference with regular drivers, inadequate real‐time monitoring, and excessive labour costs. In this work, the intent is to increase the accuracy, real‐time performance, and coverage of drunk driving detection by proposing a method for differentiating abnormal driving conditions while intoxicated by utilizing unmanned aerial vehicle technology. The approach uses an unmanned aerial vehicle to identify the driver's facial expression to determine whether there is an evidence of drunk driving behaviour is drunk driving behaviour. It then uses these models to score vehicle trajectory anomalies, including vehicle sway, vehicle sudden speed change, and signalized intersection waiting time. According to the trial data, the system can successfully identify drunk drivers, and its accuracy has increased by 10.8% compared to the high accuracy and real‐time performance of traditional drunk driving detection methods.
Design of dynamic range adjustable laser ranging chip based on element sharing
Authors: Tong Xuanke , Zhao Chongzhuo , Huang Zhiwei , Teng Chuanxin , Deng Shijie
Published: December 2024

This work proposes a design of a dynamic range adjustable laser ranging chip based on element sharing, which combines single photon avalanche diodes and direct time‐of‐flight (dToF) to address the uncertainty of detection distance in different usage scenarios of laser ranging technology. To achieve adjustable dynamic range of the chip, an element shared control logic circuit based on external control signals is designed and integrated, which can adjust the measurement dynamic range of the chip through external control signals, making it suitable for different usage scenarios. Moreover, when the dynamic range of the chip changes, the measurement resolution of the time‐to‐digital converter (TDC) in the chip can remain unchanged. Through the analysis of simulation results, it is found that the laser ranging chip designed in this work can adjust the dynamic range from 3 ns to 4.29 s based on external control signals at a resolution of 125 ps, with a reference clock signal input frequency of 20 MHz. The differential non‐linearity (DNL) error of TDC is −0.22 LSB to 0.19 LSB, and the integral non‐linearity (INL) error is −0.82 LSB to 0.52 LSB. The dynamic range adjustable laser ranging chip based on element sharing designed in this work provides a feasible solution to address the uncertainty of detection distance in laser ranging technology.
An Observational Study on Flask Web Framework Questions on Stack Overflow (SO)
Authors: Albesher Luluh , Alfayez Reem
Published: December 2024

Web‐based applications are popular in demand and usage. To facilitate the development of web‐based applications, the software engineering community developed multiple web application frameworks, one of which is Flask. Flask is a popular web framework that allows developers to speed up and scale the development of web applications. A review of the software engineering literature revealed that the Stack Overflow (SO) website has proven its effectiveness in providing a better understanding of multiple subjects within the software engineering field. This study aims to analyze SO Flask‐related questions to gain a better understanding of the stance of Flask on the website. We identified a set of 70,230 Flask‐related questions that we further analyzed to estimate how the interest towards the framework evolved over time on the website. Afterward, we utilized the Latent Dirichlet Allocation (LDA) algorithm to identify Flask‐related topics that are discussed within the set of the identified questions. Moreover, we leveraged a number of proxy measures to examine the difficulty and popularity of the identified topics. The study found that the interest towards Flask has been generally increasing on the website, with a peak in 2020 and drops in the following years. Moreover, Flask‐related questions on SO revolve around 12 topics, where Application Programming Interface (API) can be considered the most popular topic and background tasks can be considered the most difficult one. Software engineering researchers, practitioners, educators, and Flask contributors may find this study useful in guiding their future Flask‐related endeavors.
Human‐Centered UAV–MAV Teaming in Adversarial Scenarios via Target‐Aware Intention Prediction and Reinforcement Learning
Authors: Hao Wei , Liu Huaping , Liu Jia , Li Wenjie , Chen Lijun
Published: December 2024

Tacit understanding refers to the ability of team members to work together seamlessly and intuitively without explicitly communicating in detail. This ability is crucial for effective teamwork in complex situations that involve both manned and unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs). Existing collaborative tasks between manned and unmanned aircraft focus mainly on optimizing communication and the UAVs’ flight paths but neglect the benefits of tacit and intelligent operational cooperation with pilots. To address this limitation, we propose a tacit collaborative attack method that utilizes the UAVs’ capacity for tacit understanding to infer human intent and select the appropriate targets for collaborative attack missions. A learning framework incorporating intention prediction and reinforcement learning paradigms is developed to teach the UAV to generate corresponding collaborative attack actions. Finally, we present results from extensive simulation experiments in a homemade game environment to demonstrate the efficiency and scalability of our method within the proposed framework. The video can be found at https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=CjXhkD7ko14.
SIP-IFVM: Efficient time-accurate magnetohydrodynamic model of the corona and coronal mass ejections
Authors: Wang H. P. , Guo J. H. , Yang L. P. , Poedts S. , Zhang F. , Lani A. , Baratashvili T. , Linan L. , Lin R. , Guo Y.
Published: December 2024

Context. Coronal mass ejections (CMEs) are one of the main drivers of space weather. However, robust and efficient numerical modelling applications of the initial stages of CME propagation and evolution process in the sub-Alfvénic corona are still lacking.

Aims. Magnetohydrodynamic (MHD) solar coronal models are critical in the Sun-to-Earth model chain, but they do sometimes encounter low-β (<10−4) problems near the solar surface. This paper aims to deal with these low-β problems and make MHD modelling suitable for practical space weather forecasting by developing an efficient and time-accurate MHD model of the solar corona and CMEs. In this paper, we present an efficient and time-accurate three-dimensional (3D) single-fluid MHD solar coronal model and employ it to simulate CME evolution and propagation.

Methods. Based on a quasi-steady-state implicit MHD coronal model, we developed an efficient time-accurate coronal model that can be used to speed up the CME simulation by selecting a large time-step size. We have called it the Solar Interplanetary Phenomena-Implicit Finite Volume Method (SIP-IFVM) coronal model. A pseudo-time marching method was implemented to improve temporal accuracy. A regularised Biot-Savart Laws (RBSL) flux rope, whose axis can be designed into an arbitrary shape, was inserted into the background corona to trigger the CME event. We performed a CME simulation on the background corona of Carrington rotation (CR) 2219 and evaluated the impact of time-step sizes on simulation results. Our study demonstrates that this model is able to simulate the CME evolution and propagation process from the solar surface to 20 Rs in less than 0.5 hours (192 CPU cores, ~1 M cells). Compared to the explicit counterpart, this implicit coronal model is not only faster, but it also has improved numerical stability. We also conducted an ad hoc simulation with initial magnetic fields artificially increased. It shows that this model can effectively deal with time-dependent low-β problems (β < 10−4). Additionally, an Orszag-Tang MHD vortex flow simulation demonstrates that the pseudo-time-marching method used in this coronal model can simulate small-scale unsteady-state flows.

Results. The simulation results show that this MHD coronal model is very efficient and numerically stable. It is a promising approach to simulating time-varying events in the solar corona with low plasma β in a timely and accurate manner.
Exceptional X-ray activity in BL Lacertae
Authors: Wierzcholska Alicja , Wagner Stefan
Published: December 2024

BL Lacertae is a unique blazar for which the X-ray band can cover either the synchrotron or the inverse Compton, or both parts of the broadband spectral energy distribution. In the latter case, when the spectral upturn is located in the X-ray range, it allows contemporaneous study of the low- and high-energy ends of the electron distribution function. In this work, we study spectral and temporal variability using X-ray and optical observations of the blazar performed with the Neil Gehrels Swift Observatory from 2020 to 2023. The large set of observational data reveals intensive flaring activity, accompanied by spectral changes in both spectral branches. We conclude that the low-energy and high-energy ends of the particle distribution function are characterised by similar variability scales. Additionally, the hard X-ray observations of BL Lacertae performed with the Nuclear Spectroscopic Telescope Array (NuSTAR) confirm a concave spectral curvature for some epochs of the blazar activity and reveal that it can be shifted up to energies of as high as 8 keV. The time-resolved spectral analysis allows us to disentangle X-ray spectral variability features of the synchrotron from inverse Compton components. Despite significant variability of both spectral components, we find only small changes in the position of the spectral upturn. The different slopes and shapes of the X-ray spectrum of BL Lacertae demonstrate that the classification of this source is not constant, and BL Lacertae can exhibit features of either high-, intermediate-, or low-energy peaked blazar in different epochs of observation. This also indicates that the spectral upturn for this blazar can be located not only in the X-ray range of 0.3−10 keV, but also at lower or higher energies.