bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
PBP-A, a cyanobacterial dd-peptidase with high specificity for amidated muropeptides, exhibits pH-dependent promiscuous activity harmful to Escherichia coli
Authors: Dorrazehi Gol Mohammad , Winkle Matthias , Desmet Martin , Stroobant Vincent , Tanriver Gamze , Degand Hervé , Evrard Damien , Desguin Benoît , Morsomme Pierre , Biboy Jacob , Gray Joe , Mitusińska Karolina , Góra Artur , Vollmer Waldemar , Soumillion Patrice
Published: June 2024

Penicillin binding proteins (PBPs) are involved in biosynthesis, remodeling and recycling of peptidoglycan (PG) in bacteria. PBP-A from Thermosynechococcus elongatus belongs to a cyanobacterial family of enzymes sharing close structural and phylogenetic proximity to class A β-lactamases. With the long-term aim of converting PBP-A into a β-lactamase by directed evolution, we simulated what may happen when an organism like Escherichia coli acquires such a new PBP and observed growth defect associated with the enzyme activity. To further explore the molecular origins of this harmful effect, we decided to characterize deeper the activity of PBP-A both in vitro and in vivo. We found that PBP-A is an enzyme endowed with dd-carboxypeptidase and dd-endopeptidase activities, featuring high specificity towards muropeptides amidated on the d-iso-glutamyl residue. We also show that a low promiscuous activity on non-amidated peptidoglycan deteriorates E. coli’s envelope, which is much higher under acidic conditions where substrate discrimination is mitigated. Besides expanding our knowledge of the biochemical activity of PBP-A, this work also highlights that promiscuity may depend on environmental conditions and how it may hinder rather than promote enzyme evolution in nature or in the laboratory.
Mucus carbohydrate composition correlates with scleractinian coral phylogeny
Authors: Thobor Bianca M. , Tilstra Arjen , Mueller Benjamin , Haas Andreas , Hehemann Jan-Hendrik , Wild Christian
Published: June 2024

The mucus surface layer serves vital functions for scleractinian corals and consists mainly of carbohydrates. Its carbohydrate composition has been suggested to be influenced by environmental conditions (e.g., temperature, nutrients) and microbial pressures (e.g., microbial degradation, microbial coral symbionts), yet to what extend the coral mucus composition is determined by phylogeny remains to be tested. To investigate the variation of mucus carbohydrate compositions among coral species, we analyzed the composition of mucosal carbohydrate building blocks (i.e., monosaccharides) for five species of scleractinian corals, supplemented with previously reported data, to discern overall patterns using cluster analysis. Monosaccharide composition from a total of 23 species (belonging to 14 genera and 11 families) revealed significant differences between two phylogenetic clades that diverged early in the evolutionary history of scleractinian corals (i.e., complex and robust; p = 0.001, R2 = 0.20), mainly driven by the absence of arabinose in the robust clade. Despite considerable differences in environmental conditions and sample analysis protocols applied, coral phylogeny significantly correlated with monosaccharide composition (Mantel test: p < 0.001, R2 = 0.70). These results suggest that coral mucus carbohydrates display phylogenetic dependence and support their essential role in the functioning of corals.
Identification and bioinformatics analysis of genes associated with pyroptosis in spinal cord injury of rat and mouse
Authors: Liu Fu-Sheng , Huang Hai-Long , Deng Lin-Xia , Zhang Qian-Shi , Wang Xiao-Bin , Li Jing , Liu Fu-Bing
Published: June 2024

The mechanism of spinal cord injury (SCI) is highly complex, and an increasing number of studies have indicated the involvement of pyroptosis in the physiological and pathological processes of secondary SCI. However, there is limited bioinformatics research on pyroptosis-related genes (PRGs) in SCI. This study aims to identify and validate differentially expressed PRGs in the GEO database, perform bioinformatics analysis, and construct regulatory networks to explore potential regulatory mechanisms and therapeutic targets for SCI. We obtained high-throughput sequencing datasets of SCI in rats and mice from the GEO database. Differential analysis was conducted using the “limma” package in R to identify differentially expressed genes (DEGs). These genes were then intersected with previously reported PRGs, resulting in a set of PRGs in SCI. GO and KEGG enrichment analyses, as well as correlation analysis, were performed on the PRGs in both rat and mouse models of SCI. Additionally, a protein–protein interaction (PPI) network was constructed using the STRING website to examine the relationships between proteins. Hub genes were identified using Cytoscape software, and the intersection of the top 5 hub genes in rats and mice were selected for subsequent experimentally validated. Furthermore, a competing endogenous RNA (ceRNA) network was constructed to explore potential regulatory mechanisms. The gene expression profiles of GSE93249, GSE133093, GSE138637, GSE174549, GSE45376, GSE171441_3d and GSE171441_35d were selected in this study. We identified 10 and 12 PRGs in rats and mice datasets respectively. Six common DEGs were identified in the intersection of rats and mice PRGs. Enrichment analysis of these DEGs indicated that GO analysis was mainly focused on inflammation-related factors, while KEGG analysis showed that the most genes were enriched on the NOD-like receptor signaling pathway. We constructed a ceRNA regulatory network that consisted of five important PRGs, as well as 24 miRNAs and 34 lncRNAs. This network revealed potential regulatory mechanisms. Additionally, the three hub genes obtained from the intersection were validated in the rat model, showing high expression of PRGs in SCI. Pyroptosis is involved in secondary SCI and may play a significant role in its pathogenesis. The regulatory mechanisms associated with pyroptosis deserve further in-depth research.
Neuronal avalanches in temporal lobe epilepsy as a noninvasive diagnostic tool investigating large scale brain dynamics
Authors: Corsi Marie-Constance , Troisi Lopez Emahnuel , Sorrentino Pierpaolo , Cuozzo Simone , Danieli Alberto , Bonanni Paolo , Duma Gian Marco
Published: June 2024

The epilepsy diagnosis still represents a complex process, with misdiagnosis reaching 40%. We aimed at building an automatable workflow, helping the clinicians in the diagnosis of temporal lobe epilepsy (TLE). We hypothesized that neuronal avalanches (NA) represent a feature better encapsulating the rich brain dynamics compared to classically used functional connectivity measures (Imaginary Coherence; ImCoh). We analyzed large-scale activation bursts (NA) from source estimation of resting-state electroencephalography. Using a support vector machine, we reached a classification accuracy of TLE versus controls of 0.86 ± 0.08 (SD) and an area under the curve of 0.93 ± 0.07. The use of NA features increase by around 16% the accuracy of diagnosis prediction compared to ImCoh. Classification accuracy increased with larger signal duration, reaching a plateau at 5 min of recording. To summarize, NA represents an interpretable feature for an automated epilepsy identification, being related with intrinsic neuronal timescales of pathology-relevant regions.
The efficacy of physeal bar resection with guided growth in the treatment of physeal arrest with angular limb deformity
Authors: Alhassan Mohammed Salman , Park Kun Bo , Kim Hyun Woo , Park Hoon , Park Kyeong Hyeon
Published: June 2024

Premature physeal arrest can cause progressive deformities and functional disabilities of the lower limbs. This study addressed the outcomes after physeal bar resection with or without guided growth (temporary hemiepiphysiodesis) for the treatment of angular limb deformities. We retrospectively analyzed 27 patients (mean 9 years; range, 3–12 years) who underwent physeal bar resection of the distal femur (15 patients), proximal tibia (3 patients), and distal tibia (9 patients) between 2002 and 2020. Fifteen patients underwent physeal bar resection only (Group A), and the other twelve underwent simultaneous guided growth (Group B). The correction angle (angle change between the preoperative and last follow-up values) was compared and analyzed. The overall mean correction angle was 2.9° (range, − 9 to 18.3°). A total of 12 (45%) patients had a > 5° angular deformity improvement (mean, 9.6°; range, 5–18.3°), 9 (33%) had a < 5° angular change; and 6 (22%) had a > 5° worsening of the angular deformity (mean, 6.7°; range, 5.2–9°). The correction angle in Group B (mean 7.6° ± 6.2) was significantly higher than that in Group A (mean − 0.77° ± 6.3) (P = 0.01). We found six (40%) and zero patients with a > 5° angular deformity increase in Groups A and B, respectively (P < 0.047). The group that underwent physeal bar resection with guided growth showed significantly higher correction angles than the group that underwent physeal bar resection alone. Additionally, none of the patients in the guided growth group experienced an increased angular deformity. Therefore, combining guided growth with physeal bar resection may lead to better outcomes in the treatment of growth arrest with angular deformities.
Analysis of MDM2 and TP53 genes in canine liposarcoma
Authors: Muscatello Luisa Vera , de Biase Dario , Maloberti Thais , di Oto Enrico , Tallini Giovanni , Pellegrino Valeria , Bacci Barbara , Roccabianca Paola , Lepri Elvio , Crippa Luca , Avallone Giancarlo
Published: June 2024

Canine liposarcoma is an uncommon tumor that shares morphological similarities with its human counterpart. In dogs, the genetic features of this tumor are unknown and, based on immunohistochemical studies, amplification of the gene MDM2 and the mutation of TP53 are suspected. In this study 51 cases of primary liposarcomas were immunohistochemically stained for MDM2 and p53 and subjected to fluorescent in situ hybridization and next-generation sequencing to detect MDM2 amplification and TP53 mutations, respectively. MDM2 and p53 were expressed in 21 and 6 cases, respectively. MDM2 amplification and TP53 mutations were identified in 10 and 15 cases, respectively. Statistical analysis revealed an association of the myxoid subtype and the mitotic count with p53 expression and TP53 mutation. No association was found between MDM2 amplification and MDM2 expression or tumor subtype. These results suggest that despite morphological similarities, canine liposarcoma differs from its human counterpart, for which MDM2 amplification is diagnostic for well differentiated and de-differentiated variants, and TP53 mutations are more common in pleomorphic liposarcoma rather than the myxoid one as occur in our cases. Furthermore, canine myxoid liposarcoma likely represents a distinct disease rather than a mere morphological variant.
BMI, weight change, appetite reduction and cognitive impairment of elderly patients with diabetes
Authors: Ding Gongwu , Lu Meng , Li Jinlei
Published: June 2024

Body weight is related to both diabetes and cognitive impairment; however, the associations between body mass index (BMI) and cognitive impairment have been reported less frequently among diabetes patients. A total of 1355 patients with type 2 diabetes aged ≥ 60 years were included in this study. The Montreal Cognitive Assessment (MoCA) was administered to assess participants’ cognitive status. We collected self-reported body weight, weight loss and appetite loss data using questionnaires. Associations between body weight status (in childhood, midlife age, and late life), weight loss, appetite changes and cognitive impairment were explored using logistic regression. Among the participants, 41.7% exhibited cognitive impairment. Overweight in childhood and late life was associated with cognitive impairment among diabetes patients (OR 2.63, 95% CI 1.52–4.55; OR 1.32, 95% CI 1.03–1.69). Diabetes patients with cognitive impairment were more likely to report a body weight decline and appetite reduction in the past three months (OR 4.18, 95% CI 2.61–6.71; OR 4.41, 95% CI 2.67–7.29). Higher BMI, weight loss, and appetite reduction were positively correlated with cognitive impairment. Given the risk of cognitive impairment, we suggest that body weight and BMI decline should be monitored in patients with diabetes.
Mechanical properties and acoustic emission characteristics of mixed granite after different numbers of freeze‒thaw cycles
Authors: Cao Jinpeng , Hu Jun , Wang Xinrong , Yang Bin , Xia Zhiguo , Wang Hukun , Zhang Linbin
Published: June 2024

The mechanical properties of rocks in cold regions undergo significant changes as a result of decades of freeze‒thaw cycles with seasonal variations, which can lead to a series of geological disasters, such as collapse. This study investigates the evolution of the mechanical characteristics and internal progressive damage characteristics of mixed granite under freeze‒thaw cycling and axial loading. By measuring the mass, wave velocity, and uniaxial compressive strength of rock samples and combining these metrics with acoustic emission (AE) characteristics, the physical and mechanical properties and microfracture development of mixed granite after different numbers of freeze‒thaw cycles were investigated. The results indicate that as the number of freeze‒thaw cycles increases, the longitudinal wave velocity, uniaxial compressive strength, and elastic modulus of the mixed granite decrease nonlinearly, while the peak strain gradually increases. Combined with the stress‒strain curve, the AE characteristics can be divided into four stages. As the number of freeze‒thaw cycles increases, the AE cumulative count decreases, and the AE counts of the four stages are different. The low-frequency-high-amplitude signals first increases and then tends to stabilize, and they only appeared in the third and fourth stages. At the same time, the proportion of the low-frequency ratio gradually increases, and the proportion of the high-frequency ratio decreases. In addition, based on the rise time/amplitude (RA) and average frequency (AF) characteristics and failure modes, it was found that the internal crack types of mixed granite transition from shear cracks to tensile cracks, among which tensile cracks play a crucial role in rock failure.
Nanotube topography rejuvenates the senescence of mesenchymal stem cells by activating YAP signalling
Authors: Sun Yanping , Yu Yejia , Ma Shixing , Liao Chengcheng , Yang Jian , Lyu Yun , Zhang Xuanhao , Zhang Jingyi , Tian Weidong , Liao Li
Published: June 2024

Nanotube topography rejuvenates the senescence of mesenchymal stem cells.
Prospects, advances and biological applications of MOF-based platform for the treatment of lung cancer
Authors: Deng Yijun , Guo Manli , Zhou Luyi , Huang Yong , Srivastava Shreya , Kumar Abhinav , Liu Jian-Qiang
Published: June 2024

Herein, we reviewed the recent development in the use of MOF materials as a platform for the treatment of lung cancer.
Recent strategies for triplet-state emission regulation toward non-lead organic–inorganic metal halides
Authors: Hua Zhaorui , Wang Lingyi , Gong Shuyan , Tian Yang , Fu Hongbing
Published: June 2024

In this review, we present a summary of recent research on the regulation of triplet-state emissions in non-lead organic–inorganic metal halides. We focus on exploring the internal and external factors influencing the triplet-states emission.
Mechanistic characterisation of the diterpene synthase for clitopilene and identification of isopentalenene synthase from the fungus Clitopilus passeckerianus
Authors: Li Heng , Goldfuss Bernd , Dickschat Jeroen S.
Published: June 2024

Two terpene synthases from the pleuromutilin producing fungus Clitopilus passeckerianus were functionally characterised.
High-order above-threshold ionisation of diatomic molecules by few-cycle bicircular and orthogonally polarised two-colour pulses
Authors: Habibović Dino , Jašarević Abdulah S. , Busuladžić Mustafa , Milošević Dejan B.
Published: June 2024

Improved molecular strong-field approximation theory is used to calculate the ionisation probability for the high-order above-threshold ionisation process induced by a few-cycle pulse with two carrier frequencies and one envelope.
Recent advances and perspectives for intercalation layered compounds. Part 2: applications in the field of catalysis, environment and health
Authors: Bisio Chiara , Brendlé Jocelyne , Cahen Sébastien , Feng Yongjun , Hwang Seong-Ju , Nocchetti Morena , O'Hare Dermot , Rabu Pierre , Melanova Klara , Leroux Fabrice
Published: June 2024

Intercalation compounds represent a unique class of materials that can be anisotropic (1D and 2D-based topology) or isotropic (3D) through their guest/host superlattice repetitive organisation.
Influence of Nd-MOF/CNF-derived Nd2O3-C/CNF composite on lithium–sulfur batteries
Authors: Qian Xinye , Zhao Shuailong , Hao Qingyuan , Jin Lina , Zhang Ke , Li Baozhong
Published: June 2024

Nd-MOF/CNF-derived Nd2O3-C/CNF was prepared by high-temperature calcination. Nd2O3-C/CNF as a separator-modified material is applied to Li–S battery. Nd2O3-C/CNF shows good adsorption and catalytic capability for polysulfides.
Zinc and cadmium thioamidate complexes: rational design of single-source precursors for the AACVD of ZnS
Authors: Robson Max E. , Johnson Andrew L.
Published: June 2024

A series of zinc and cadmium thioamidate complexes have been synthesised, characterised and their thermal properties assessed for their potential application in the AACVD of metal sulfide thin films.
Reduced greenhouse gas emissions from particulate organic matter degradation in iron-enriched sediments
Authors: Kommana Giulia , Hupfer Michael , Woodhouse Jason Nicholas , Grossart Hans-Peter , Goldhammer Tobias
Published: June 2024

Iron (Fe) interacts with the biogeochemical cycling of carbon and nutrients in aquatic systems. Excess Fe can reduce greenhouse gas emissions from particulate organic matter mineralisation in sediments of water bodies polluted by mining.
In situ precise determination of stable Mo isotope ratios in molybdenite by femtosecond LA-MC-ICP-MS
Authors: Tian Jing , Bao Zhian , Chen Kaiyun , Zong Chunlei , Zhang Yan , Peng Deyi , Yuan Honglin
Published: June 2024

We developed a new method for in situ measurement of Mo stable isotope ratios using femtosecond laser ablation coupled with MC-ICP-MS. Additionally, experiments were conducted on nine natural molybdenite samples from different ore deposits in China.
The first report on the utility of an organotellurium compound as a stabilizer in the colloidal synthesis of a transition-metal-containing nanocatalytic system: application to O-arylation of phenol
Authors: Bahuguna Anurag , Oswal Preeti , Purohit Suraj , Tyagi Anupma , Kumar Arun
Published: June 2024

The application of an organotellurium ligand as a stabilizer of palladium nanoparticles has been reported, and these nanoparticles have the potential to catalyze the O-arylation of phenols, even with aryl chlorides having deactivating substituents.
Switching from antiferromagnetism to ferromagnetism in nanocrystalline La1−xSr1+xCoO4 (x = 0.0, 0.2, 0.4 and 0.6) layered perovskite oxides: effects of mixed valence states of Co on their magnetic, optical and photocatalytic properties
Authors: Atri Amit Kumar , Qadir Irfan , Sharma Shikha , Manhas Ujwal , Singh Sumit , Sharma Preteek , Sharma Manisha , Singh Devinder
Published: June 2024

Photocatalytic degradation of a mixture of dyes by La0.4Sr1.6CoO4 nanocatalyst.
A review on recent advances of cellulose acetate membranes for gas separation
Authors: Bashir Zunara , Lock Serene Sow Mun , Hira Noor e , Ilyas Suhaib Umer , Lim Lam Ghai , Lock Irene Sow Mei , Yiin Chung Loong , Darban Mehtab Ali
Published: June 2024

This review thoroughly investigates the wide-ranging applications of cellulose-based materials, with a particular focus on their utility in gas separation processes.
From waste to wealth: iron oxide doped hydroxyapatite-based biosensor for the colorimetric detection of ascorbic acid
Authors: Badshah Amir , Noreen Sadaf , Shah Mohibullah , Asad Muhammad , Ullah Riaz , Ali Essam A. , Iqbal Jibran , Sun Wei , Nishan Umar
Published: June 2024

Proposed mechanism for the sensing of ascorbic acid based on the HAp@Fe2O3 mimic enzyme assisted by H2O2.
Influence of natural additives on the properties of a milk-based compostable bioplastic
Authors: Lettieri Raffaella , Fazio Veronica , Abruzzese Donato , Di Bartolomeo Elisabetta , D'Ottavi Cadia , Micheletti Andrea , Tiero Alessandro , Duranti Leonardo , Armuzza Valentina , Licoccia Silvia , Gatto Emanuela
Published: June 2024

The ongoing revolution in the plastic sector is the use of renewable and compostable materials obtained from biomass. In this paper the influence of natural reinforcing agents on the properties of a milk-based compostable bioplastic is investigated.
Insights into the sustainability of liquid chromatographic methods for favipiravir bioanalysis: a comparative study
Authors: Mostafa Ahmed
Published: June 2024

The introduction of favipiravir as a broad-spectrum antiviral agent, particularly in treating influenza and exploring its potential against COVID-19, emphasizes the necessity for efficient analytical methods.
On the use OF 1H-NMR chemical shifts and thermodynamic data for the prediction of the predominant conformation of organic molecules in solution: the example of the flavonoid rutin
Authors: Da Silva Haroldo C. , De Almeida Wagner B.
Published: June 2024

Among 44 DFT fully optimized structures (named 1–44), located on the potential energy surface for flavonoid rutin, only the φ1, φ2 manually rotated structure 32, yielded an almost perfect agreement with the 1H-NMR experimental spectrum (in DMSO-d6).
Improvement of hybrid polyvinyl chloride/dapsone membrane using synthesized silver nanoparticles for the efficient removal of heavy metals, microorganisms, and phosphate and nitrate compounds from polluted water
Authors: Moustafa Hesham , Shemis Mohamed A. , Ahmed Emad M. , Isawi Heba
Published: June 2024

Highly efficient nanomembranes from hybrid PVC-DAP reinforced with Ag NPs for use in water purification and dialysis devices in the medical field.
The phototoxic effect of a gold-antibody-based nanocarrier of phthalocyanine on melanoma monolayers and tumour spheroids
Authors: Nkune Nkune Williams , Abrahamse Heidi
Published: June 2024

In recent years, photodynamic therapy (PDT) has garnered significant attention in cancer treatment due to its increased potency and non-invasiveness compared to conventional therapies.
Highly efficient ambient temperature photo-oxidation of CH4 to C1 products over CeO2 supported single-atom Fe with oxygen vacancies
Authors: Tang Hailong , Ma Yongqing , Zhu Chuhong , Wang Min , Zheng Ganhong , Sun Xiao , Wang Meiling
Published: June 2024

A CeO2-supported Ov-bound Fe-single-atom catalyst was prepared and realized exceptional photocatalytic CH4 conversion to C1 oxygenates with nearly 100% selectivity at ambient temperature.
Physical vapor deposition of an oriented metal–organic framework HKUST-1 thin film on an insulating substrate
Authors: Iwamoto Shunta , Nakayama Ryo , Chon Seoungmin , Shimizu Ryota , Hitosugi Taro
Published: June 2024

This study reports the synthesis of a (111)-oriented HKUST-1 ([Cu3(BTC)2], BTC = 1,3,5-benzenetricarboxylate) thin film on an insulating glass substrate using a combination of physical vapor deposition and solvent vapor annealing.
Particulate gel liquid marbles
Authors: Tenjimbayashi Mizuki , Tamate Ryota
Published: June 2024

Non-sticking water droplets covered with a particulate gel, namely particulate gel liquid marbles (PGLMs), exhibited high mechanical stability due to the viscous dissipation of the PG.
Preparation of meso-porous aromatic frameworks for rapid ion extraction from high salt and corrosion environments
Authors: Zhang Cheng , Li Huanhuan , Cao Doudou , Song Yingbo , Zheng Yue , Cao Jiarui , Chen Wanying , Yuan Ye , Gao Nan , Yang Yajie
Published: June 2024

Silica nanoparticles were adopted as a template to synthesize mesoporous aromatic frameworks (meso-PAFs). They provide large channels for the transportation of uranyl ions, which give an adsorption capacity of 12.4 mg g−1 in 20 days from seawater.
Structure design of a BiOF solid electrolyte with remarkably outstanding fluoride ion diffusion performance induced by Ga doping
Authors: Ning Jiyu , Meng Weijia , Wang Chuang , Wang Huangkai , Wu Chao , You Lidong , Wang Xianyou , Pei Yong , Wang Haibo , Yang Zhenhua
Published: June 2024

BiOF is considered as a potential excellent solid electrolyte for fluoride ion batteries due to its special layered structure.
Chiral carbon nanostructures: a gateway to promising chiral materials
Authors: Niu Xiaohui , Liu Yongqi , Zhao Rui , Wang Luhua , Yuan Mei , Zhao Hongfang , Li Hongxia , Yang Xing , Wang Kunjie
Published: June 2024

A summary and discussion on the recent research advances in chiral carbon materials based on various carbon nanomaterials.
Recent advances in gel coatings: from lab to industry
Authors: Zhang Lingling , Ren Huili , Wu Liwei , Liu Zejun , Xie Ailin , Yao Xi , Ju Jie , Liu Mingjie
Published: June 2024

The review summarizes and categorizes innovative gel synthesis methods and coating fabrication techniques with robust interfacial adhesion, focusing on the strategies of user and eco-friendliness in versatile scenarios.
An acidity-regulated double perovskite cathode for efficient and durable power generation of intermediate-temperature solid oxide fuel cells
Authors: Xu Aoqin , Huan Daoming , Dai Pengqi , Zhang Lu , Xia Changrong
Published: June 2024

This work reports a double perovskite oxide EuBa0.5Sr0.5Co2−xFexO5+δ (EBSCFx, x = 0.5, 1, and 1.5) as cathode for IT-SOFC. Specifically, the cell using EBSCF1.0 cathode delivers excellent performance with a PPD of 1.50 W cm−2 at 650 °C.
Regulating the selectivity through ionomer–catalyst interactions for high-efficiency electrocatalytic CO2 reduction
Authors: Yu Chen , Lei Taoning , Xu Li , Jin Chuyao , Yi Jundong , Liu Shenghui , Lin Saisai , Yang Yang , Song Hao , Wang Kaige , Fan Haidong , Zheng Chenghang , Zhang Xiao , Gao Xiang
Published: June 2024

The surface morphology and microenvironment of GDEs could be altered through the addition of ionomers to electrodes. It was crucial to consider the potential interactions between the ionomer and the catalyst for better performance.
Injectable thermogel constructed from self-assembled polyurethane micelle networks for 3D cell culture and wound treatment
Authors: Wang Yanjun , Sheng Nan , Wang Ao , Wang Min , Xu Yuanyang , Lu Dan , Liu Wenkai , Li Zhen , Li Jiehua , Sun Jianhui , Luo Feng
Published: June 2024

This study introduces an injectable polyurethane thermogel with tunable transition temperature via hydrophilic-hydrophobic balance, enabling rapid gelation, injectability, biodegradation, and significantly improved wound healing.
High-conductivity graphene/carbon black inks via interpenetrating networks for wearable fabric-based heaters and strain sensors
Authors: Zhang Yujin , Chen Xiangping , Dong Yuqi , Zhang Guowen , Cai Huizhuo , Wu Yongcai , Bai Yongxiao
Published: June 2024

A highly dispersed and conductive Gr/CB dispersion has been developed through a sand-milling. A Gr/CB composite ink with an interpenetrating conductive network structure has been prepared for wearable fabric-based heaters and strain sensors.
Stabilizing cubic γ-Ga2O3:Cr3+ spinel nanocrystals by size confinement into mesoporous silica nanoreactor channels
Authors: Crozzolin Michele , Belloni Camilla , Xu Jian , Nakanishi Takayuki , Ueda Jumpei , Tanabe Setsuhisa , Dallo Federico , Balliana Eleonora , Saorin Asia , Rizzolio Flavio , Cristofori Davide , Riello Pietro , Benedetti Alvise , Back Michele
Published: June 2024

Mesoporous silica channels of different sizes are used to stabilize γ-Ga2O3:Cr3+ spinel nanocrystals with phase stability up to 1000 °C. Their optical properties are deeply investigated.
Enhanced nonlinear optical properties of Au25 nanocluster oligomers linked by bidentate dithiol
Authors: Obstarczyk Patryk , Osmólska Julia , Swierczewski Michał , Bürgi Thomas , Samoć Marek , Olesiak-Bańska Joanna
Published: June 2024

Oligomerization of atomically-precise clusters leads to enhancements of their nonlinear optical performance (9000 GM for monomers, 66 000 GM for trimers).
Fabrication of Ag-perovskite substrates for surface-enhanced Raman scattering via all-vacuum deposition
Authors: Liu Chih-Yi , Guo Jhih-Yan , Lin Jin-Yi , Uma Kasimayan , Liu Shun-Wei
Published: June 2024

The first all-vacuum deposition for fabricating perovskite-based substrates for surface-enhanced Raman scattering (SERS) is reported.
Mn2+-doping enables improved crystallization of CsPbI3 quantum dots for efficient deep-red light-emitting diodes
Authors: Liu Mengyun , Zhou Jing , Hao Xuerong , Liu Hongli , Wang Shirong , Li Xianggao
Published: June 2024

PeLEDs based on CsPb0.977Mn0.023I3 QDs exhibited a maximum EQE of 22.76%, which is at an advanced level among deep-red PeLEDs.
The art of connectivity – using the brain as a community art project
Authors: Greenhill Stuart , Lutsyk Petro , Suman Kamaljit , Kumar Mukesh
Published: June 2024

We have been using the brain, and all the marvellous systems, cells and structures within it, as the basis of a community outreach project using art to engage children and young people in science. Through this, we aim to show that communication within our brains and bodies, between our own close networks of friends and families, and across disparate groups the world over, depends upon the same principles of connectivity, diversity and feedback. Ultimately, we will use the project as a springboard to engage more community organizations, hospitals and schools around the UK and beyond to add to our network of budding scientist-artists.
Speech Disfluencies in Bilingual Lebanese Children Who Do and Do Not Stutter
Authors: Saad Merouwe Selma , Bertram Raymond , Eggers Kurt
Published: June 2024

Purpose:

Prior studies have shown that bilingual children who do not stutter (CWNS) exhibit a high number of disfluencies in both languages, increasing the risk of misidentification by speech-language pathologists as children who stutter (CWS). Conversely, there is a risk of misidentifying CWS with a relatively low incidence of disfluencies as CWNS. This study aims to explore the qualitative and quantitative distinctions in speech disfluency profiles between CWNS and CWS. The assessment covers both the dominant and nondominant language to examine the impact of language dominance on disfluency patterns.

Method:

A total of 92 Lebanese bilinguals (70 CWNS and 22 CWS) from 4;06 to 7;06 (years;months) were included. Language dominance was determined based on parental assessments. Spontaneous and narrative speech samples were collected for each child in both languages and all stuttering-like disfluencies (SLD) and other disfluencies (OD) were coded.

Results:

On average, CWNS showed a significantly lower percentage of total SLD, weighted SLD, SLD subtypes, and iterations compared to CWS. However, the number of disfluencies of CWNS exceeded monolingual clinical standards. Language dominance did not impact SLD and OD percentages, but some differences for SLD subtypes emerged. Binary logistic regression analyses showed that repetitions and dysrhythmic phonations are good predictors for correct CWS or CWNS classification, in contrast to OD. A combination of predictors from both languages led to better classification than using predictors from either language alone.

Conclusions:

The current study shows that speech disfluency percentages in bilingual CWNS typically surpass monolingual standards and can be at par with those of CWS. However, through careful consideration of disfluency characteristics, ideally in both languages, an accurate differential diagnosis of stuttering in bilingual children can be achieved.
Secured Routing Protocol for Improving the Energy Efficiency in WSN Applications
Authors: Makimaa Y. P. , Sudarmani R.
Published: June 2024

A staggering number of applications rely on the network architecture to carry out their tasks, which has led to a fast growth in wireless sensor networks (WSN). The possibility of harmful activity and data theft is growing as a result of the growth in devices and data. Thus, the network’s regular users have an impact on legitimate data delivery, which lowers customer happiness and worsens network standards. The data have been saved using a variety of security procedures that have been developed in past research studies. However, harmful activity continues to engage in its illegal operations despite their efforts to safeguard data transmission in the network. As a result, a number of recent research projects have concentrated on predicting innovative techniques and processes to offer security in WSN. In comparison to existing methods, this work attempted to offer an effective tighter security for WSN and suggested an ML‐Based Secured Routing Protocol (MLSRP) for WSN with improved energy efficiency and overall performance. Energy efficiency is the main requirement of WSNs, hence a clustered network is proposed where the data are routed through the cluster head nodes. In this paper, a multicriteria based decision‐making (MCDM) model is used by the MLSRP to perform data routing, clustering, and cluster head election while also analyzing a number of network characteristics that might affect the quality of a node, route, and data. In NS2 software, the suggested framework is put into practice and simulated. The results are then validated to gauge performance. The observed quantitative results reveal that the proposed MLSRP method attains an improved network lifetime by 5% and network throughput of 6%. It reduces energy consumption by 40%, curtails overhead to 37%, and minimizes end‐to‐end delay by 30% than the other conventional methods. The suggested framework performs better than others when its total performance is compared to that of older methods.
Bat algorithm based on kinetic adaptation and elite communication for engineering problems
Authors: Yuan Chong , Zhao Dong , Heidari Ali Asghar , Liu Lei , Wang Shuihua , Chen Huiling , Zhang Yudong
Published: June 2024

The Bat algorithm, a metaheuristic optimization technique inspired by the foraging behaviour of bats, has been employed to tackle optimization problems. Known for its ease of implementation, parameter tunability, and strong global search capabilities, this algorithm finds application across diverse optimization problem domains. However, in the face of increasingly complex optimization challenges, the Bat algorithm encounters certain limitations, such as slow convergence and sensitivity to initial solutions. In order to tackle these challenges, the present study incorporates a range of optimization components into the Bat algorithm, thereby proposing a variant called PKEBA. A projection screening strategy is implemented to mitigate its sensitivity to initial solutions, thereby enhancing the quality of the initial solution set. A kinetic adaptation strategy reforms exploration patterns, while an elite communication strategy enhances group interaction, to avoid algorithm from local optima. Subsequently, the effectiveness of the proposed PKEBA is rigorously evaluated. Testing encompasses 30 benchmark functions from IEEE CEC2014, featuring ablation experiments and comparative assessments against classical algorithms and their variants. Moreover, real‐world engineering problems are employed as further validation. The results conclusively demonstrate that PKEBA exhibits superior convergence and precision compared to existing algorithms.
Improved 5G network slicing for enhanced QoS against attack in SDN environment using deep learning
Authors: Abood Mohammed Salah , Wang Hua , Virdee Bal S. , He Dongxuan , Fathy Maha , Yusuf Abdulganiyu Abdu , Jamal Omar , Elwi Taha A. , Alibakhshikenari Mohammad , Kouhalvandi Lida , Ahmad Ashfaq
Published: June 2024

Within the evolving landscape of fifth‐generation (5G) wireless networks, the introduction of network‐slicing protocols has become pivotal, enabling the accommodation of diverse application needs while fortifying defences against potential security breaches. This study endeavours to construct a comprehensive network‐slicing model integrated with an attack detection system within the 5G framework. Leveraging software‐defined networking (SDN) along with deep learning techniques, this approach seeks to fortify security measures while optimizing network performance. This undertaking introduces network slicing predicated on SDN with the OpenFlow protocol and Ryu control technology, complemented by a neural network model for attack detection using deep learning methodologies. Additionally, the proposed convolutional neural networks‐long short‐term memory approach demonstrates superiority over conventional ML algorithms, signifying its potential for real‐time attack detection. Evaluation of the proposed system using a 5G dataset showcases an impressive accuracy of 99%, surpassing previous studies, and affirming the efficacy of the approach. Moreover, network slicing significantly enhances quality of service by segmenting services based on bandwidth. Future research will concentrate on real‐world implementation, encompassing diverse dataset evaluations, and assessing the model's adaptability across varied scenarios.
SAM‐Y: Attention‐enhanced hazardous vehicle object detection algorithm
Authors: Wang Shanshan , Liu Bushi , Zhu Pengcheng , Meng Xianchun , Chen Bolun , Shao Wei , Chen Liqing
Published: June 2024

Vehicle transportation of hazardous chemicals is one of the important mobile hazards in modern logistics, and its unsafe factors bring serious threats to people's lives, property and environmental safety. Although the current object detection algorithm has certain applications in the detection of hazardous chemical vehicles, due to the complexity of the transportation environment, the small size and low resolution of the vehicle target etc., object detection becomes more difficult in the face of a complex background. In order to solve these problems, the authors propose an improved algorithm based on YOLOv5 to enhance the detection accuracy and efficiency of hazardous chemical vehicles. Firstly, in order to better capture the details and semantic information of hazardous chemical vehicles, the algorithm solves the problem of mismatch between the receptive field of the detector and the target object by introducing the receptive field expansion block into the backbone network, so as to improve the ability of the model to capture the detailed information of hazardous chemical vehicles. Secondly, in order to improve the ability of the model to express the characteristics of hazardous chemical vehicles, the authors introduce a separable attention mechanism in the multi‐scale target detection stage, and enhances the prediction ability of the model by combining the object detection head and attention mechanism coherently in the feature layer of scale perception, the spatial location of spatial perception and the output channel of task perception. Experimental results show that the improved model significantly surpasses the baseline model in terms of accuracy and achieves more accurate object detection. At the same time, the model also has a certain improvement in inference speed and achieves faster inference ability.
Building point cloud reconstruction in TomoSAR based on deep learning semantic segmentation
Authors: Shi Minan , Chen Longyong , Zhang Fubo , Li Wenjie , Cui Chenghao , Liu Yuling
Published: June 2024

Tomographic synthetic aperture radar (TomoSAR) possesses 3D imaging capability, making it significant for building reconstruction using TomoSAR data. The reconstruction algorithm is closely related to building point cloud detection, while traditional detection methods suffer from low automation and reliance on manual configuration. This study proposes a building point cloud reconstruction method based on deep learning semantic segmentation. Initially, deep learning method is employed for end‐to‐end building point cloud segmentation, followed by point cloud reconstruction based on the segmentation results. The proposed method is simple and efficient, elevating the level of automation in point cloud processing. Experimental validation on real TomoSAR data confirms that the proposed method achieves automated and refined reconstruction of building point clouds.
MFE‐MVSNet: Multi‐scale feature enhancement multi‐view stereo with bi‐directional connections
Authors: Lai HongWei , Ye ChunLong , Li Zhenglin , Yan Peng , Zhou Yang
Published: June 2024

Recent advancements in deep learning have significantly improved performance in the multi‐view stereo (MVS) domain, yet achieving a balance between reconstruction efficiency and quality remains challenging for learning‐based MVS methods. To address this, we introduce MFE‐MVSNet, designed for more effective and precise depth estimation. Our model incorporates a pyramid feature extraction network, featuring efficient multi‐scale attention and multi‐scale feature enhancement modules. These components capture pixel‐level pairwise relationships and semantic features with long‐range contextual information, enhancing feature representation. Additionally, we propose a lightweight 3D UNet regularization network based on depthwise separable convolutions to reduce computational costs. This network employs bi‐directional skip connections, establishing a fluid relationship between encoders and decoders and enabling cyclic reuse of building blocks without adding learnable parameters. By integrating these methods, MFE‐MVSNet effectively balances reconstruction quality and efficiency. Extensive qualitative and quantitative experiments on the DTU dataset validate our model's competitiveness, demonstrating approximately 33% and 12% relative improvements in overall score compared to MVSNet and CasMVSNet, respectively. Compared to other MVS networks, our approach more effectively balances reconstruction quality with efficiency.
Maritime vessel classification based on a dual network combining EfficientNet with a hybrid network MPANet
Authors: Liu Wenhui , Qiao Yulong , Zhao Yue , Xing Zhengyi , He Hengxiang
Published: June 2024

Ship classification is an important technique for enhancing maritime management and security. Visible and infrared sensors are generally employed to deal with the challenging problem and improve classification performance. Herein, a two‐branch feature fusion neural network structure is proposed to classify the visible and infrared maritime vessel images simultaneously. Specifically, in this two‐branch neural network, one branch is based on a deep convolutional neural network that is used to extract the visible image features, while the other is a hybrid network structure that is a multi‐scale patch embedding network called MPANet. The sub‐network MPANet can extract fine‐ and coarse‐grained features, in which the pooling operation instead of the multi‐head attention mechanism is utilized to reduce memory consumption. When there are infrared images, it is used to extract the infrared image features, otherwise, this branch is also utilized to extract visible image features. Therefore, this dual network is suitable with or without infrared images. The experimental results on the visible and infrared spectrums (VAIS) dataset demonstrate that the introduced network achieves state‐of‐the‐art ship classification performance on visible images and paired visible and infrared ship images.
Suppression of low‐frequency oscillations in hybrid/multi microgrid systems with an improved model predictive controller
Authors: Amiri Farhad , Moradi Mohammad Hassan , Eskandari Mohsen
Published: June 2024

Grid‐forming inverters are used for voltage regulation and frequency control in autonomous hybrid microgrids and multi‐microgrid systems by imitating synchronous generators. However, in microgrids with weak grids including low inertia levels and small X/R ratios, these inverters interact with each other, and as a result low‐frequency oscillations (LFO) arise. LFO impacts the frequency stability of multi‐microgrid systems. Nevertheless, LFO can be mitigated by the load‐frequency control system, which serves as a secondary control mechanism. However, the presence of wind turbines and photovoltaic systems in hybrid microgrids adds complexity to the operation of the load‐frequency control due to the uncertainty associated with these renewable energy resources, and various controllers have been employed. This paper proposes a novel approach to enhance the performance of the load‐frequency control system and suppress LFO. The presented technique reduces the complexity of the hybrid microgrid structure by reducing the number of controllers. The model predictive control (MPC) technique is utilized for load‐frequency control and the weight parameters of the MPC are determined using the rain optimization algorithm. The proposed method demonstrates improved dynamic response, reduced overshoot and undershoot responses, decreased controller complexity, and effective LFO suppression. The simulation results verify the effectiveness of the method.
Research on forward scan imaging based on azimuth modulation and pulse compression
Authors: Liu Sijia , Pan Minghai
Published: June 2024

Aiming at the problem that the azimuth echoes of forward‐looking scanning imaging are aliased and the angular information of different targets cannot be directly separated, resulting in low azimuth resolution, the authors propose a scanning imaging method based on azimuth modulation and pulse compression in this paper. Firstly, the coupling of slow‐time and scanning angle is utilised to transmit time‐varying azimuth‐modulated pulses while the beam is scanning, and phase demodulation is performed during the echo processing; then the azimuth pulse compression is used to accumulate effective power and obtain the azimuth information of different targets. The proposed method not only obtains high azimuth resolution of the forward‐looking area, but also has a simple processing process and good anti‐noise performance. Simulation and analysis demonstrate the effectiveness of the proposed method.
Assesment of rice yield quality in Kuban in connection with grain damage in the form of dark spots
Authors: Tumanyan Natalia , Kumeyko Tatiana , Chizhikova Svetlana , Papulova Elina
Published: June 2024

The problem of rice damage by “black spotting” in the field during maturation is acute in all rice-growing countries. In the work, it was necessary to study the spread of shield bugs on rice crops in the Krasnodar region, the intensity of damage to rice crops in various areas according to the method of assessing damage to the rice crop, differentiation of varieties by tolerance to damage. Surveys of rice crops were carried out during various periods of the growing season in order to identify insect pests with piercing-sucking mouthparts in the Krasnoarmeysky, Abinsky, Slavyansky, Kalininsky districts of Krasnodar region and Prikubansky district of Krasnodar in 2020-2023 and a comparative assessment of the intensity of damage to rice grains in the form of dark spots by region is given. The highest intensity of grain damage was noted in Krasnoarmeysky district. Preliminary results on the tolerance of varieties to grain damage by stink bugs during the rice growing season were obtained and preliminary differentiation of varieties was carried out. The most tolerant varieties were Abinsky, Vector, and Strombus, and therefore these varieties are recommended to be grown in areas with the most intense damage to crops by stink bugs. Methodological methods have been developed for studying the “black spotting” of rice, which consist of selecting samples of rice varieties in industrial crops in areas of its cultivation, characterizing the content of damaged grains and assessing the influence of the intensity of damage on the physical properties of the yield.