bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
CBAM Attention Gate‐Based Lightweight Deep Neural Network Model for Improved Retinal Vessel Segmentation
Authors: Fareed Kashif , Khan Anas , Alhussein Musaed , Aurangzeb Khursheed , Shahzad Aamir , Islam Mazhar
Published: January 2025

Over the years, researchers have been using deep learning in different fields of science including disease diagnosis. Retinal vessel segmentation has seen significant advancements through deep learning techniques, resulting in high accuracy. Despite this progress, challenges remain in automating the segmentation process. One of the most pressing and often overlooked issues is computational complexity, which is critical for developing portable diagnostic systems. To address this, this study introduces a CBAM‐Attention Gate‐based U‐Netmodel aimed at reducing computational complexity without sacrificing performance on evaluation metrics. The performance of the model was analyzed using four publicly available fundus image datasets: CHASE_DB1, DRIVE, STARE, and HRF, and it achieved sensitivity, specificity, accuracy, AUC, and MCC performances (0.7909, 0.9975, 0.9723, 0.9867, and 0.8011), (0.8217, 0.9816, 0.9674, 0.9849, and 0.9778), (0.8346, 0.9790, 0.9680, 0.9855, and 0.7810), and (0.8082, 0.9769, 0.9638, 0.9723, and 0.7575), respectively. Moreover, this model comprises of only 0.8 million parameters, which makes it one of the lightest available models used for retinal vessel segmentation. This lightweight yet efficient model is most suitable for use in low‐end hardware devices. The attributes of significantly lower computational complexity along with improved evaluation metrics advocates for its deployment in portable embedded devices to be used for population‐level screening programs.
Photobiomodulation Exerts Anti‐Inflammatory and Antioxidant Effects Reducing the Development of Tumors Elicited by 4‐NQO in the Mice Tongue
Authors: do Carmo Filho José Ronildo Lins , Lima Iásly Costa , de Barros Silva Paulo Goberlânio , Alves Ana Paula Negreiros Nunes , Sousa Fabricio Bitu , Assreuy Ana Maria Sampaio , Mota Mário Rogério Lima
Published: January 2025

Objective

Evaluate the influence of photobiomodulation in a model of oral carcinogenesis induced by 4‐nitroquinoline‐n‐oxide (4‐NQO).

Subjective

Ninety‐six Swiss mice received topical application of 1% 4‐NQO on tongue dorsum, for 20 weeks. The tongue was subjected to photobiomodulation with red (71.4 J/cm2) and infrared laser (142.8 J/cm2) starting at week 0, 12, and 16. After 20 weeks, tongues were removed for the following analyzes: histological assessment, immunohistochemical reactions (cyclin D1/Ki‐67/TGF‐β1), quantification of MPO, n‐AG, MDA, GSH, total proteins, TNF‐α, IL‐1β, and IL‐6 levels.

Results

4‐NQO showed significant increase in the frequency of carcinoma (p < 0.001), and in the immunostaining for cyclin D1/Ki‐67/TGF‐β1 (p < 0.005), along with increased levels of TNF‐ α, IL‐1β, IL‐6, MPO, n‐AG, MDA, and total proteins (p < 0.001), that were reduced by photobiomodulation with red and infrared lasers (p < 0.005).

Conclusion

Photobiomodulation reduces tumor development, accompanied by reduced inflammatory cells and content of cytokines and oxidative markers associated with carcinogenesis.
Police Contact, Sleep, and Mental Health in the Adolescent Brain Cognitive Development (ABCD) Study
Authors: Johnson Elizabeth I. , Green E. Cole , Stewart Meagan , Coleman Jasmine N.
Published: January 2025

Using data from the Adolescent Brain Cognitive Development study (n = 3928), we examined how police contact relates to sleep problems, anxiety, and depressive symptoms during middle adolescence (M age = 14.09; SD = 0.68). Consistent with racialized disparities in the presence of police in schools and communities, descriptive data revealed that Black children, particularly boys, reported more positive and negative contact with police than other children. Results of regression analyses that adjusted for potential selection factors further revealed that negative interactions with police were associated with increased risk for sleep disturbances and/or internalizing symptoms among White boys, Black girls, and Hispanic youth. Contact with police was not, however, associated with outcomes assessed here for White girls or Black boys, findings that likely reflect fundamentally different lived experiences with police, gendered racial socialization processes, and access to social support that warrant continued investigation in future research.
Leveraging Capital Networks for Entrepreneurial Success
Authors: Mohammadi Navid , Dahooie Jalil Heidary , Salloum Charbel , Jarrar Hajer , Rossi Matteo
Published: January 2025

This study analyzes Iran's entrepreneurial ecosystem to identify key actors and collaborative networks that facilitate entrepreneurial performance and economic development. By employing social network analysis (SNA), we examined interactions among 1941 actors—comprising 1665 entrepreneurial businesses and 276 investors—and calculated 11 network analysis criteria for each. Using the Correlation Coefficient and Standard Deviation (CCSD) method to determine the significance of these criteria, the Additive Ratio Assessment (ARAS) method was applied to rank actors by their performance. Findings highlight closeness centrality as a pivotal factor, with early‐stage investors such as accelerators and incubators emerging as key enablers of entrepreneurial success, whereas venture capitalists and late‐stage investors played a less prominent role, reflecting potential weaknesses in exit strategies. Broader implications underscore the critical need to strengthen ties between universities, industries, and investors to foster a more resilient entrepreneurial ecosystem, with actionable insights for policymakers, entrepreneurs, and ecosystem stakeholders to optimize cooperation and innovation.
Coumarin‐triazole hybridized as therapeutic‐based niosomes for advanced drug release of Cefixime against multi‐drug resistance Salmonella enterica
Authors: Burki Samiullah , Ali Imdad , Burki Zeba Gul , Khan Sarzamin , Fazal Mahmood , Ullah Riaz , Shah Ismail , Shah Zafar Ali , Shah Muhammad Raza
Published: January 2025

Bacterial resistance to conventional antibiotics has become a massive problem for healthcare systems. This could result in serious consequences for treating bacterial infections, including treatment failure. In turn, drug resistance has promoted the development of more effective antibacterial agents. Niosomes are considered efficient agents for the enhancement of the antibacterial activity of antibiotics. Herein, Coumarin‐triazole hybrid (CAT) niosomes were developed and evaluated against extensively drug‐resistant Salmonella enterica (XDR S. enterica). The Cefixime‐loaded CAT niosomal vesicle average particle size was 342 ± 3 nm, with a zeta potential −28 ± 2.0 mV. CAT vesicles showed a prominent drug entrapment efficiency of 74% ± 3%. A blood hemolytic assay revealed no hemolysis occurred. CAT vesicle exhibited a reduced cytotoxic effect against NIH/3T3 normal mouse fibroblast cells, at the maximum concentration of 1000 μg/mL. However, the MIC50 empty and Cefixime loaded CAT niosomal vesicles against XDR S. enterica was observed at 250 and 125 μgmL−1, respectively, indicating that Cefixime lowered the MIC50 by two‐fold. Topographical atomic force microscopy (AFM) images revealed that exposure to Cefixime‐loaded CAT niosomes efficiently damaged the bacterial cell membrane of XDR S. enterica, resulting in leaking and scattering.
Preparation of Polyaniline Modified Cellulose Filter Paper and Its Application in Detecting 23 Per‐ and Polyfluoroalkyl Substances
Authors: You Hong‐Yu , Yin Hong‐Yi , Zhao Jia‐Hui , Xiang Zhou‐Yang , Liu Bo , Hu Guo‐Wei , Sun Zhong‐Hui , Lai Hua‐Jie
Published: January 2025

Per‐ and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) are a widely used class of synthetic chemicals that pose a significant global environmental and health threat due to their persistent and bioaccumulation toxicity caused by strong C‐F bonds in their structures. PFAS usually exist in trace concentrations in environmental water bodies, which poses great challenges for environmental analysis. In this study, environmentally friendly cellulose was modified with polyaniline through in situ oxidative polymerization, and used as the filter paper for solid‐phase extracting 23 PFAS in water. Characterization techniques such as scanning electron microscope, Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy, X‐ray photoelectron spectrometer, and thermogravimetric analysis indicated the successful synthesis of structurally stable polyaniline‐modified cellulose filter paper (PANI/CFP). Then, a high‐performance liquid chromatograph‐triple quadrupole mass spectrometry determination method was established for 23 PFAS from water using PANI/CFP extraction. The optimal adsorption occurred at a solution pH of 3.0–5.0, and the best elution efficiency can be achieved using methanol with 2% added ammonia water. The adsorption mechanism of 23 PFAS by PANI/CFP can be considered as the result of synergistic effects between physical and chemical adsorption. The recovery rates for 23 PFAS in groundwater, surface water, and wastewater ranged from 65.8% to 105%, with limits of detection and quantification from 0.44 to 36.5 ng/L. After being reused five times, PANI/CFP can still maintain a good extraction recovery rate for PFAS. This study successfully prepared PANI/CFP and established an experimental method flow for its application in the extraction and detection of 23 PFAS in water. The PANI/CFP has the characteristics of stable structure and properties, and easy operation.
Music Transmission and Performance Optimization Based on the Integration of Artificial Intelligence and 6G Network Slice
Authors: Zhu Honghui
Published: January 2025

Network slicing, which enables efficient resource management to meet specific service requirements, provides a scalable solution for optimizing music transmission and live performance in mobile networks beyond 5G and into 6G. The research focuses on optimizing live performances as well as music transmission. Since AI‐driven resource management improves performance quality and real‐time music streaming in dynamic 6G network situations, these factors are interconnected. This approach allows multiple tenants, such as event organizers and music producers, to share infrastructure while customizing communication and quality standards for real‐time music services. To ensure optimal resource allocation, including high bandwidth, low latency, and consistent service quality, network slices are dynamically configured by the infrastructure provider. Although the implementation of network slicing in the core network has been well studied, applying it within the radio access network (RAN) presents challenges, especially given the unpredictability of wireless channels and the strict quality of service (QoS) demands for live music streaming. For 6G networks, the article suggests a tenant‐driven RAN slicing method improved by artificial intelligence (AI) to maximize music performance and transmission. A hybrid AI framework integrates a deep recurrent neural network (DRNN) for continuous monitoring and prediction of network conditions with a deep Q‐network (DQN) augmented by prioritized experience replay (PER) for real‐time resource adaptation. The DRNN forecasts network states to guide high‐level resource allocation, whereas DQN with PER dynamically manages routing and bandwidth based on past critical network states, enabling rapid responses to fluctuating performance demands. Comparative results indicate that the suggested approach outperforms conventional techniques, achieving a latency of 25 ms, an audio quality of 4.6, and a bandwidth utilization of 90%. Simulation results in live music and enhanced mobile broadband (eMBB) environments demonstrate the proposed approach's effectiveness in minimizing latency, enhancing audio quality, and stabilizing transmission, surpassing traditional network allocation techniques.
Grocery intervention and DNA‐based assessment to improve diet quality in pediatric obesity: a pilot randomized controlled study
Authors: Aqeel Ammara , Kay Melissa C. , Zeng Jun , Petrone Brianna L. , Yang Chengxin , Truong Tracy , Brown Covington B. , Jiang Sharon , Carrion Veronica M. , Bryant Stephanie , Kirtley Michelle C. , Neshteruk Cody D. , Armstrong Sarah C. , David Lawrence A.
Published: January 2025

Objective

We assessed the impact of a food‐provisioning intervention on diet quality in children with obesity.

Methods

Participants (n = 33, aged 6–11 years) were randomly assigned to either usual care (intensive health behavior and lifestyle treatment) or intervention (usual care + food provisioning; high‐fiber, low‐dairy diet) for 4 weeks. The primary outcome was a change in child diet quality at Week 4. Secondary outcomes were changes in weight, food insecurity, gut microbiome composition (16S ribosomal RNA), and dietary intake, measured via an objective DNA‐based biomarker (i.e., FoodSeq). Genomic dietary data were analyzed against a larger pediatric adolescent obesity cohort (n = 195, aged 10–18 years) from similar households.

Results

Intervention demonstrated changes across all assessed diet components and was more effective than usual care in increasing whole grain (β = 0.20, 95% CI: 0.05 to 0.34; p = 0.013) and fiber (β = 2.52, 95% CI: 1.28 to 3.76; p < 0.001) and decreasing dairy (β = −1.31, 95% CI: −2.02 to −0.60; p = 0.001). FoodSeq results, highly concordant with grocery orders (adjusted R2 = 0.65; p < 0.001), indicated a dietary shift toward low‐energy‐density plant taxa in the intervention relative to a prior survey of diet in a related cohort (β = 8.64, 95% CI: 5.18 to 12.14; p < 0.001). No significant changes were observed in microbiome, weight, or food insecurity.

Conclusions

Our study supports the potential of dietitian‐guided food provisioning for improving diet quality in children with obesity and demonstrates an objective genomic approach for evaluating dietary shifts.
Optimising Production of Synthetic Natural Gas (SNG) From Methane Synthesis
Authors: Rakhi  , Mauss Fabian
Published: January 2025

To optimise the methanation of synthesis gas (syngas) with a focus on achieving maximum methane and minimum CO, a comprehensive thermodynamics analysis of hydrogenation is conducted. This study will help us to understand the thermodynamic behaviour of the reactions involved in the methanation process. We have investigated the species, , , , and CO at the equilibrium in a temperature range of 200–1200 with pressure variation of 1 to 300 atm and a fuel composition of . Low temperatures (200–400) and high pressures are favourable for the complete consumption of and as well as to obtain maximum . Also, in this temperature range, there is no formation of the species CO. The formation of CO becomes a serious issue from 400 for low pressures, for example, 1 atm. This can be shifted to slightly higher temperatures, i.e., 600 if high pressures are selected. The study can help us to select the optimum conditions (temperature and pressure) to perform the experiments to achieve maximum by full methanation of . This will also support us for the development of catalysts and processes for the production of natural gas which can be reintegrated into the network of natural gas.
Bridging the gap between science, policy and stakeholders: Towards sustainable wolf–livestock coexistence in human‐dominated landscapes
Authors: Ostermann‐Miyashita Emu‐Felicitas , Kirkland Hannah , Eklund Ann , Hare Darragh , Jansman Hugh A. H. , Kiffner Christian , Linnell John D. C. , Rigg Robin , Stone Suzanne A. , Uthes Sandra , von Arx Manuela , König Hannes J.
Published: January 2025

While the return of wolves (Canis lupus) to many European countries is a conservation milestone, the negative impacts are unevenly distributed across society, placing high pressure on livestock grazing systems.

For this perspective, scientists from diverse disciplines and geographical backgrounds reflect on the state of livestock–wolf interactions in Europe and formulate recommendations for enabling wolf–livestock coexistence.

We argue that co‐designing, co‐implementing and co‐disseminating research with key stakeholders, such as livestock farmers, is a productive approach to developing and implementing locally appropriate coexistence strategies.

Decision‐making should be informed by scientific evidence. We recommend that ecological data on wolves and livestock are collected and shared across borders. Evidence from the social sciences is important for understanding the human dimension of wolf–livestock interactions.

We suggest bridging the gaps within multidisciplinary wolf–livestock research to strengthen interdisciplinary insights, comprehensively evaluate management approaches and guide governance and policy decisions that properly account for inherent complexities.

Policy implications: As wolf populations and their impacts continue to grow in Europe, policymakers at all levels must make decisions that adequately safeguard wolf populations while simultaneously protecting livestock and livelihoods. This requires access to reliable scientific evidence.
Lymph Node Staging and Treatment in Pediatric Patients With Soft Tissue Sarcomas: A Consensus Opinion from the Children's Oncology Group, European paediatric Soft tissue sarcoma Study Group, and the Cooperative Weichteilsarkom Studiengruppe
Authors: Terwisscha van Scheltinga Sheila , Schoot Reineke A. , Routh Jonathan C. , Seitz Guido , Kao Simon C. , de Keizer Bart , Shulkin Barry , Ewijk Roelof van , McCarville Beth , Casey Dana , Allen‐Rhoades Wendy , Mercolini Federico , Merks Hans , Orbach Daniel , Kapadia Tejas , Walterhouse David O. , Davila Fajardo Raquel , Hiemcke‐Jiwa Laura , Franzius Christiane , De Corti Federica , Tang Vivian , Metts Jonathan , Oberoi Saphna , Vokuhl Christian , Dasgupta Roshni , Birz Suzi , Rodeberg David
Published: January 2025

Accurate staging of nodal involvement in pediatric sarcoma patients is important to determine correct systemic and local therapy, with the goal to reduce subsequent recurrences. However, differences in lymph node staging strategies, definitions, and treatment protocols between the Children's Oncology Group (COG), European paediatric Soft tissue sarcoma Study Group (EpSSG), and the Cooperative Weichteilsarkom Studiengruppe (CWS) complicate comparisons. In this article, we aim to establish internationally recognized recommendations for lymph node assessment and treatment of children and adolescents diagnosed with rhabdomyosarcoma (RMS) and non‐rhabdomyosarcoma soft tissue sarcoma (NRSTS) according to the Consensus Conference Standard Operating Procedure methodology.
Hepatobiliary Adverse Events Associated With the KRAS p.G12C Inhibitor Sotorasib
Authors: Frey Connor
Published: January 2025

Purpose

The p.G12C mutation in KRAS is commonly found in many cancers and was previously untreatable until drugs like sotorasib were developed. However, up to 15% of patients treated with sotorasib have experienced hepatobiliary adverse events. To investigate whether these side effects are more common among sotorasib users, a pharmacovigilance study is necessary.

Methods

This study used the FDA adverse event reporting system (FAERS) database, a publicly available repository of reported drug adverse events, and AERSMine, an open‐access pharmacovigilance tool, to investigate these adverse events.

Results

A total of 428 hepatobiliary adverse events were linked to sotorasib. Hepatic cytolysis had the highest reported relative risk at 26.541 and a safety signal of 4.726. Elevated liver and biliary enzymes such as AST, ALT, ALP, and GGT were commonly observed, but with lower reported relative risk and safety signal values, which supports previous real‐world reports.

Conclusions

These findings highlight the hepatobiliary risks associated with sotorasib and underscore the importance of closely monitoring liver function in patients who are using the medication. This is particularly crucial for patients with hepatobiliary cancers, as disease progression and adverse events could be misinterpreted.
Anionic ring‐opening polymerization following atom transfer radical polymerization: Poly(glycidyl methacrylate‐g‐dimethylsiloxane) obtained by “grafting from” strategy
Authors: Satti Angel J. , Murano Paulo I. Rossato , Pérez Claudio Javier , Freitas Augusto , Giacomelli Cristiano , Ciolino Andrés E.
Published: January 2025

The reactivity of pendant epoxide groups of poly(glycidyl methacrylate) (PGMA) in reaction pathways devised under the concepts of anionic ring‐opening polymerization (AROP) to yield poly(glycidyl methacrylate‐g‐dimethylsiloxane) [poly(GMA‐g‐DMS)] copolymers is reported in this study. Three grafting approaches were undertaken starting with PGMA synthesized by atom transfer radical polymerization (ATRP). While living anionic poly(dimethylsiloxane) chains could not be coupled to PGMA backbone via grafting onto mechanism, the grafting from route, which involved first the reaction of epoxide moieties of PGMA backbone with sec‐Bu−Li+ to yield poly(GMA−Li+) and then the anionic polymerization of hexamethylcyclotrisiloxane monomer, proved successful and consistent. SEC, NMR, FTIR, DSC, and TGA results indicated that up to six units of DMS could be incorporated per epoxide site, resulting in poly(GMA‐g‐DMS) amorphous copolymers. The reaction pathway reported in this work offers a new concept on the synthesis of glycidyl/siloxane based copolymers with a wide range of commercial applications already reported in literature.

Highlights

A novel synthesis approach to poly(GMA‐g‐DMS) hybrid graft copolymers.

Reaction of epoxide rings in the PGMA backbone with sec‐Bu−Li+ yields P(GMA−Li+).

Anionic polymerization of hexamethylcyclotrisiloxane from P(GMA−Li+) is successful.

Unsuccessful attack of living PDMS−Li+ chains to pendant oxirane groups of PGMA.

Addition of a polarizing agent (LiCl) has no effect on the reactive ion‐pairs.
A framework for long‐term environmental monitoring using living plant collections in botanic gardens: A global review and case study from Trinity College Botanic Garden
Authors: Yajima Midori , Murray Michelle , Chondrogiannis Christos , Waldren Stephen , McElwain Jennifer
Published: January 2025

Societal Impact Statement

Botanic gardens play a crucial role in addressing global environmental challenges by providing a unique setting for long‐term plant studies and engaging the public in climate change awareness. Our review highlights the underuse of these gardens' living collections for monitoring climate impacts, revealing significant gaps in data and phylogenetic diversity. The Witness Tree Project at Trinity College Botanic Garden will enhance long‐term research and public engagement through open‐access data and protocols. This initiative not only advances scientific understanding but also fosters community involvement and education, promoting a collective effort towards mitigating climate change impacts.

Botanic gardens are ideal settings for long‐term studies on plant responses to climate change, providing extensive outreach and visitor engagement opportunities. However, the use of living collections for multi‐year studies has not been thoroughly assessed. This paper first reviews environmental monitoring projects conducted in these institutions over three continuous years, revealing that fewer than 1% of botanic gardens and arboreta globally engage in long‐term research. There is also a notable lack of phylogenetic diversity, with only 3% of angiosperm and 35% of gymnosperm families represented. Monitoring efforts mainly focus on phenology and plant pathology, with limited attention to other subjects like plant traits. Moreover, no studies have linked climate change impacts on plants with urban green space research, despite the urban locations of many botanic gardens, and no structured guidelines exist for establishing long‐term monitoring programmes. In the second part of this paper, we introduce The Witness Tree Project (WTP) at Trinity College Botanic Garden (TCBG), a newly established long‐term (>30 years) annual monitoring programme. The WTP tracks the physiological performance of selected woody plants under climate change and the deposition of particulate pollution (PM 2.5 and PM10) on their leaves. The project leverages the potential of a university botanic garden to integrate multidisciplinary research, teaching and outreach activities, using open‐access protocols and data‐sharing practices. Finally, we outline a framework for designing long‐term monitoring programmes in botanic gardens and arboreta. This framework, informed by the establishment and pilot year of the WTP, encourages the use of living collections in advancing global change research.
Matching‐Assisted Power Prior for Incorporating Real‐World Data in Randomized Clinical Trial Analysis
Authors: Qian Ruoyuan , Yang Biqing , Xu Xinyi , Lu Bo
Published: January 2025

Leveraging external data information to supplement randomized clinical trials has been a popular topic in recent years, especially for medical device and drug discovery. In rare diseases, it is very challenging to recruit patients and run a large‐scale randomized trial. To take advantage of real‐world data from historical trials on the same disease, we can run a small hybrid trial and borrow historical controls to increase the power. But the borrowing needs to be conducted in a statistically principled manner. Bayesian power prior methods and propensity score adjustments have been discussed in the literature. In this paper, we propose a matching‐assisted power prior approach to better mitigate observed bias when incorporating external data. A subset of comparable external subjects is selected by groups through template matching, and different weights are assigned to these groups based on their similarity to the current study population. Power priors are then implemented to incorporate the information into Bayesian inference. Unlike conventional power prior methods, which discount all control patients similarly, matching pre‐selects good controls, hence improved the quality of external data being borrowed. We compare its performance with the existing propensity score‐integrated power prior approach through simulation studies and illustrate the implementation using data from a real acupuncture clinical trial.
Etchant‐Free Dry‐Developable Extreme Ultraviolet Photoresist Materials Utilizing N‐Heterocyclic Carbene–Metal Complexes
Authors: Kim Dowon , Byeon Jinhwan , Ahn Jaeboong , Kim Sangjin , Moon In‐Uk , Ryu Huijeong , Oh Dong Suk , Yoon Yang Hun , Jee Hae‐geun , Hwang Chan‐Cuk , Hong Sukwon
Published: January 2025

Extreme ultraviolet (EUV) lithography has enabled significant reductions in device dimensions but is often limited by capillary force‐driven pattern collapse in conventional wet processes. Recent dry‐development approaches, while promising, frequently require toxic etchants or specialized equipment, limiting their broader applicability and highlighting the need for more sustainable, cost‐effective alternatives. In this study, highly reactive, etchant‐free dry‐developable EUV photoresists using N‐heterocyclic carbene (NHC)‐based metal‐ligand complexes, achieving half‐saturation at EUV doses of 8.5 or 27 mJ cm−2, are synthesized. A simple thermal dry development process is employed, utilizing a standard furnace to remove unexposed areas of the photoresist, leading to 80 nm resolution with line‐edge roughness (LER) comparable to wet‐developed patterns. Moreover, EUV‐induced chemical reactions of the NHC metal‐ligand complexes are investigated via EUV‐photoelectron spectroscopy, near‐edge X‐ray absorption fine structures, X‐ray photoelectron spectroscopy, and density functional theory. It is suggested that the high EUV sensitivity of the NHC metal‐ligand complexes is attributed to branching polymerization reactions initiated by secondary electron and photoelectron generation. These EUV‐sensitive, dry‐developable NHC metal–organic photoresists offer a sustainable and economical alternative to conventional techniques, eliminating the need for toxic and corrosive etchants while achieving high‐resolution nanopatterns through simple thermal treatment, thus advancing future nanofabrication technologies.
Remote Activation Catalysis: Interparticle Hydrogen Spillover‐Assisted Cumene Synthesis from Propane and Benzene
Authors: Suzuki Kenta , Hasegawa Shingo , Osuga Ryota , Nakajima Kiyotaka , Motokura Ken
Published: January 2025

Hydrogen spillover, particularly when involving “interparticle” hydrogen spillover, offers a unique opportunity to enhance catalytic efficiency by remote activation of surface acidity. Building on this concept, this study aims to investigate physically mixed alumina‐supported platinum nanoparticles (Pt/Al2O3) and zirconia‐supported tungsten oxide (WO3/ZrO2) in promoting the direct synthesis of cumene from benzene and propane at 300 °C. The reaction with Pt/Al2O3 alone afforded propylene as the only product, indicating the successive reaction route of Pt‐catalyzed dehydrogenation of propane, followed by acid‐catalyzed alkylation. WO3/ZrO2 with 18 wt.% WO3 loading resulted in high benzene conversion (≈5.0%) and cumene selectivity (≈87.5%), which possesses poly tungstate species on the surface that is active for the acid‐catalyzed alkylation. UV–vis‐near infrared spectroscopy, X‐ray photoelectron spectroscopy, and in situ Fourier‐transform infrared spectroscopy analyses revealed that atomic hydrogen abstracted from propane spills over from Pt/Al2O3 particles to WO3/ZrO2 particles to form Brønsted acid sites on the poly tungstate species, whose activity for alkylation between benzene and propylene is double that of the parent WO3/ZrO2.
Utilization of Stable and Efficient High‐Entropy (Ni0.2Zn0.2Mg0.2Cu0.2Co0.2)Al2O4 Catalyst with Polyvalent Transition Metals to Boost Peroxymonosulfate Activation toward Pollutant Degradation
Authors: Yu Xinmiao , Wang Shifa , Zhang Yuanyuan , Yu Xianlun , Gao Huajing , Yang Hua , Fang Leiming , Zhang Huijun , Syed Asad
Published: January 2025

A polyacrylamide gel method has been used to synthesize a variety of polyvalent‐transition‐metal‐doped Ni position of high entropy spinel oxides (Ni0.2Zn0.2Mg0.2Cu0.2Co0.2)Al2O4‐800 °C (A2) on the basis of NiAl2O4, and the catalytic activity of A2 is studied under the synergistic action of peroxymonosulfate (PMS) activation and simulated sunlight. The A2 containing polyvalent transition metals (Ni2+, Cu2+, and Co2+) can effectively activate PMS and efficiently degrade levofloxacin (LEV) and tetracycline hydrochloride (TCH) under simulated sunlight irradiation. After 90 min of light exposure, the degradation percentages of LEV (50 mg L−1) and TCH (100 mg L−1) degrade by the A2/PMS/vis system reach 87.0% and 90.2%, respectively. The superoxide radicals, photoinduced holes, and singlet oxides dominate the catalytic process, while hydroxyl radicals and sulfate radicals play only a small role. The adsorption energy and charge density difference between different systems and PMS are calculated by density functional theory, and the activation efficiency of PMS is studied by combining with the change of the length of the O─O bond of the PMS after adsorption. The catalytic mechanism of A2/PMS/vis system is proposed, which provides a new idea and method for the study of high entropy oxides in the field of catalysis.
Intelligent Thermoelectric Sensing with Sustainable Strain‐Hardening Geopolymeric Composites
Authors: Cai Jingming , Yuan Yujin , Pan Lin , Pei Zhiyang , Zhang Yu , Xi Xiang , Ukrainczyk Neven , Koenders Eduardus A. B. , Zhang Linfeng , Zhang Y. X. , Pan Jinlong , Wang Yifeng , Xie Wenjie
Published: January 2025

Traditional thermoelectric (TE) building materials are limited in both performance and durability, requiring enhancements for effective energy solutions. This research investigates strain‐hardening geopolymeric composites (SHGC) for TE sensing applications. The influence of metal oxides on mechanical strength and TE characteristics is evaluated using isothermal calorimetry, computed tomography scanning, and focused ion beam (FIB)–transmission electron microscopy analysis. At ambient temperature, SHGC samples with MnO2 exhibit the highest Seebeck coefficient of 5470 μV K−1 with a measured power density of 29 μW m−2. Despite the presence of small strain cracks, the SHGC maintains about 69% of its original ZT value even after long‐term use. This discovery underlines the durability and efficiency of SHGC, demonstrating their potential for future infrastructure applications. The cost‐effectiveness, temperature‐sensing abilities, and environmental advantages of SHGC make them well suited for large‐scale smart applications.
Electrosynthesis of Ru (II)‐Polypyridyl Oligomeric Films on ITO Electrode for Two Terminal Non‐Volatile Memory Devices and Neuromorphic Computing
Authors: Sachan Pradeep , Sharma Pritish , Kaur Rajwinder , Manna Debashree , Sahay Shubham , Mondal Prakash Chandra
Published: January 2025

Molecular electronics exhibiting resistive‐switching memory features hold great promise for the next generation of digital technology. In this work, electrosynthesis of ruthenium polypyridyl nanoscale oligomeric films is demonstrated on an indium tin oxide (ITO) electrode followed by an ITO top contact deposition yielding large‐scale (junction area = 0.7 × 0.7 cm2) two terminal molecular junctions. The molecular junctions exhibit non‐volatile resistive switching at a relatively lower operational voltage, ±1 V, high ON/OFF electrical current ratio (≈103), low‐energy consumption (SET/RESET = 27.94/14400 nJ), good cyclic stability (>300 cycles), and switching speed (SET/RESET = 25 ms/20 ms). A computational study suggests that accessible frontier molecular orbitals of metal‐complex to the Fermi level of ITO electrodes facilitate charge transport at a relatively lower bias followed by a filamentformation. An extensive analysis is performed of the performance of binary neural networks exploiting the current‐voltage features of the devices as binary synaptic weights and exploring their potential for neuromorphic logic‐in‐memory implementation of IMPLICATION (IMPLY) operation which can realize universal gates. The comprehensive analysis indicates that the proposed redox‐active complex‐based memory device may be a promising candidate for high‐density data storage, energy‐efficient implementation of neuromorphic networks with software‐level accuracy, and logic‐in‐memory implementations.
Unveiling the Role of Carbide in the Wear Behavior of M42 High‐Speed Steel Containing Rare Earth: Insights from Wear and Damage Mechanism Maps
Authors: Kang Jie , Hu Zixuan , Liu Yu , Liang Jingbin , Duan Yihang , Li Wang , Wu Dayong , Li Dong , Ma Haikun , Su Ru , Li Qing
Published: January 2025

In this paper, the wear behavior of M42 high speed steel (HSS) cutting tools containing rare earth elements has been investigated to reveal the role of carbides with diverse sizes in the wear of M42 HSS. A wear map and damage mechanism map for M42 HSS containing rare earth have been established. Based on the magnitude of wear rates, the wear map can be divided into three regions: mild wear, medium wear, and severe wear. As contact stress and sliding velocity increase, the damage mechanism evolves through three stages: initial slight scratching with fewer microvoids from the detachment of small‐sized carbides, followed by increased scratching with more microvoids, and culminating in severe oxidation characterized by extensive microvoids due to the fracture and detachment of larger carbides. Carbide spalling in various sizes emerges as a key factor contributing to microstructural damage and the deterioration of wear performance in M42 HSS. A quantitative correlation between carbide spalling and wear rate has been established, identifying critical thresholds of carbide spalling proportions that indicate the transition from mild to severe wear.
Rehumanizing Higher Education: Fostering Humanity in the Era of Machine Learning
Authors: Carver Joseph , Bah Samba
Published: January 2025

Recent advancements in artificial intelligence (AI) have raised contentious questions and spawned divided opinions regarding the future of education. The polarization it brings to the academy seems to be breaking between the soft and hard disciplines and is reminiscent of the Science Wars of the 1990s. This chapter highlights the philosophical dimensions of integrating AI, particularly generative AI, within higher education and emphasizes the role communal‐building philosophies can play in efforts to rehumanize higher education. We contend AI's implications for human learning transcend the boundaries that mark our academic fields and provide an opportunity to exceed our disciplinary silos. We seek ways to avoid the academic infighting characterized by the academy's recent past and advocate for higher education's unity regarding cultivating intelligence. We argue AI should reflect human intelligence and higher education's response should be one worthy of our collective humanity.
Prognostic value of contrast‐enhanced ultrasound in dogs with acute renal injury treated with haemodialysis
Authors: Puccinelli Caterina , Lippi Ilaria , Pelligra Tina , Citi Simonetta
Published: January 2025

Background

It is clinically relevant to predict outcomes in dogs with acute kidney injury (AKI) treated with haemodialysis. The aim of this study was to evaluate the prognostic value of contrast‐enhanced ultrasound (CEUS) and its role in discriminating between AKI and acute impairment associated with chronic kidney disease (AKI/CKD).

Methods

Dogs diagnosed with AKI or AKI/CKD were prospectively enrolled in the study. For all dogs, CEUS was performed at admission (T0). In addition, in haemodialysis‐treated dogs, it was performed after the first dialysis (T1) and 7 days (T7) and 30 days (T30) after admission.

Results

A total of 41 dogs were enrolled, of which 30 were treated with haemodialysis and 11 received medical therapy. No significant difference was found between CEUS values at T0 in surviving and non‐surviving patients after haemodialysis. A significant difference in cortical peak enhancement intensity (PI) values was found between T0, T1, T7 and T30, with the highest PI value at T0, a significant reduction at T1 and a progressive reduction in subsequent checks. There were no significant differences in CEUS parameters at T0 between patients with AKI and AKI/CKD.

Limitations

AKI aetiology was unknown in most cases, which limits the generalisability of the findings. Furthermore, the small sample size means that the statistical analysis is likely underpowered.

Conclusion

CEUS could be helpful in evaluating of the prognosis of dogs with AKI during haemodialysis.
Water quality assessment of rooftop harvested rainwater across different roof types in a semi‐arid region of South Africa
Authors: Livhuwani Vele , Eunice Ubomba‐Jaswa , Edokpayi Joshua Nosa
Published: January 2025

Uneven distribution of precipitation and climate change have led to water shortages, adversely impacting numerous countries worldwide. Rooftop rainwater harvesting (RWH) has emerged as a crucial method for providing water for domestic uses. However, there are concerns about the quality of rainwater collected from roofs, as it may be contaminated with pollutants such as metals and microbiological pathogens. This study investigates the common roof types used as catchments for rainwater harvesting with the aim of establishing the quality and usefulness of the harvested water resource. Compliant levels of major and trace metals were recorded across various roof types in the three study areas. Metals of concern, such as lead (below detection limit to 0.69 μg/l), arsenic (0.06–0.13 μg/l), and cadmium (0.02–0.13 μg/l), were also within acceptable limits at all study sites. However, the average levels of E. coli detected ranged from 4.32 to 27.97 cfu/100 ml, exceeding the recommended limits set by both the World Health Organization and the South African National Standards. The trace metal levels in water collected from slate roofs were slightly higher than those from other roof types for most of the metals studied. The quality of the water obtained from various roof types indicates it is suitable for all domestic purposes, including drinking after disinfection. No significant differences were observed in the water quality across the different rooftops in the study areas.

Practitioner Points

Different roofing materials did not significantly affect the quality of the harvested rainwater.

Water quality of the harvested rainwater complied with regulatory standards except for microbial water quality parameters.

Rainwater can be used for several domestic purposes without treatment except for drinking purposes where it should be treated with a simple point‐of‐use water treatment system.

First flush should be discarded as it impacts greatly on the water quality parameters determined.

Rainwater harvesting offers an alternative and supplementary form of water supply in the semi‐arid region of South Africa.
A Review of Modern Multinomial‐Derived and Partition‐Based Record‐Linkage Methods
Authors: Thibaudeau Yves
Published: January 2025

Fellegi and Sunter introduced in 1969 the first theory of record linkage. Their work was interpreted and applied in many situations. However, an infrastructure to support generalizing the theory was not available until 40 years later when Sadinle and Fienberg formally introduced partitioning in the record linkage arena. Partitioning makes clear the limitations of the original theory and paves the way to generalizing it. Partitioning also fits naturally in the Bayesian paradigm. We review the advent and instances of partitioning in the recent literature and the context of record‐linkage applications connected to Dirichlet‐Multinomial processes. We suggest directions for the future.
Peroxymonosulfate Activation by Co(CN)3 Catalyst for Rapid Degradation of Antibiotic
Authors: Chen Jing , Liu Xin , Guo Han , Xu Manni , Lu Xinning , Hua Derun , Xu Guohai
Published: January 2025

Owning to both well‐defined active sites and high site densities, Co‐MOFs have emerged as a promising catalyst for their high performance. Herein, Co(CN)3 with cubic structure and morphology are successfully synthesized via hydrothermal method. As the activator of peroxymonosulfate (PMS), Co(CN)3 is applied to the degradation of tetracycline hydrochloride (TC) for the first time. At the optimized reaction conditions ([catalyst] = 0.1 g · L−1, [TC] = 20 mg L−1, [PMS] = 3 mmol·L−1, initial pH = 7, T = 25 °C), the efficiency of degradation achieves 94%. Coexisting dissolved organic matter and Cl− ions reduce the TC degradation efficiency by a noticeable percentage, while the HCO3− and H2PO4− ions slightly prevent the degradation process. Mechanism investigations suggest that SO4•− and 1O2 play crucial roles in the catalytic process. Recycling experiments demonstrated that the catalytic performance of Co(CN)3 remains at 55% after four cycles. This work offers novel insights into Co(CN)3 catalyst for activating PMS.
Query Processing on Heterogeneous Hardware
Authors: Kozar Anastasiia , Bleichert Janis von , Breß Sebastian , Grulich Philipp M. , Lutz Clemens , Rabl Tilmann , Rosenfeld Viktor , Traub Jonas , Zeuch Steffen , Markl Volker
Published: January 2025

In modern processor design, power efficiency has become the primary constraint, prompting manufacturers to develop processors that balance energy consumption with the growing demand for speed. This shift has initiated an era of heterogeneous multi-core computing, characterized by machines utilizing various processors such as GPUs, MICs, and FPGAs. These processors significantly enhance performance due to their computational capabilities and memory bandwidth, essential for optimizing query processing performance. However, executing database queries efficiently across diverse processors presents challenges due to architectural differences, leading to varied performance outcomes for different operator implementations. This chapter explores methodologies for executing database queries on any processor with maximum efficiency without manual adjustments. We propose compiling database queries into optimized code that can adapt continuously to achieve optimal performance across a wide array of processors. Key areas of focus include the use of GPUs in database systems, addressing challenges such as workload distribution and data transfer bottlenecks, and introducing a classification scheme for strategies developed to tackle these issues. Additionally, we examine NVLink 2.0 technology’s potential to improve data transfer efficiency between GPUs and CPUs, enhancing GPU-accelerated query processing. Furthermore, we present a novel adaptive query compilation-based stream processing engine (SPE) that surpasses traditional interpretation-based SPEs by incorporating runtime optimizations and task-based parallelization. This approach allows for dynamic adjustments to data characteristics, significantly improving query execution efficiency and throughput. Through these explorations, we aim to provide insights into current systems and highlight areas for future research, ultimately contributing to the advancement of heterogeneous query processing systems.
Stairway to Heaven or Highway to Hell?
Authors: Pariès Jean
Published: January 2025

This book reports on an academic, multidisciplinary and multinational seminar held to explore citizen participation in decisions concerning the public management of risks, particularly industrial risks. It illustrates the complexity of the subject and shows the great diversity of social, technical and political contexts, as well as the diversity of aims and implementation methods, the challenges encountered during practical implementation and the difficulties in achieving the expected benefits. To conclude this book, this final chapter repositions this complexity at the intersection of two components: “citizen participation” in democratic life on the one hand, and “public risk management” on the other. First, it separately examines the issues associated with these two concepts, as well as their own complexity, then it brings them together to identify some principles and avenues to explore to arrive at an “honest” and contextualized understanding of public participation in the governance of industrial risks.
Social Acceptability of Industrial Risk
Authors: Gendron Corinne , Friser Alice , Yates Stéphanie , Arpin Marie-Luc
Published: January 2025

The concept of social acceptability aims to grasp the social dynamics surrounding public projects and decisions. Social acceptability is commonly used to analyze the social context of new projects and decisions, but it has seldom been used to understand the dynamics surrounding industrial risk management. This chapter proposes to explore the potential of social acceptability as a frame for participatory issues in risk management.
Simulation Analysis and Optimization Design of Small Microwave Cavity for Passive Hydrogen Maser
Authors: Zheng Hefei , Li Jing , Wang Feng , Chen Qiang , Li Shiguang , Wang Liang
Published: January 2025

The passive hydrogen maser is a widely used atomic frequency standard, which has high frequency performance, small volume and light weight. In the process of miniaturization, there are other electromagnetic fields in microwave cavity besides TE011 mode near the hydrogen atomic transition frequency, which affect the hydrogen atomic transition and the frequency performance of the passive hydrogen maser. In this paper, through electromagnetic field simulation of the microwave cavity, the design of microwave cavity is optimized, so that the center frequencies of other modes adjacent to TE011 mode are far away from the hydrogen atomic transition frequency, and the performance indexes of the passive hydrogen maser are improved.