bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Social Sustainability as the Milestone for a Sustainable Food System: The Essential Role of People Working in Agriculture
Authors: Canfora Irene , Leccese Vito S.
Published: August 2024

A Sustainable Food System needs to be implemented through a legal framework balancing measures concerning all the aspects of sustainability (the social, economic and environmental ones), as defined by the Farm to Fork strategy.

Since environmental issues are considered a structural part of CAP regulations, a special attention shall be paid both to social and economic sustainability of agricultural and food system, as fundamental pillars for a resilient and competitive development of the primary sector.

A new “social” approach of agricultural policy takes into consideration the position of farmers (in particular, a fair revenue of their activity) and workers involved in the agricultural sector (in particular, the rights to protection and safety at work). It also involves the comprehensive rural areas, ie the social context that represents the premise to reach environmental goals of sustainability in rural territories, realised by the farmers themselves as main actors of the rural economy.

Therefore, for the future of food law, a strategic consideration of the legal framework related to people working in agriculture and agri-food sector should concern two main aspects.

On one hand, the introduction of social conditionality, establishing compliance with labour law rules, including work safety and transparency of employment conditions in agricultural labour contracts in order to receive CAP subsidies – becomes a component of the process for “safe food” through an “ethical and legal food production.”

On the other hand, it is important to consider the improvement of life conditions and services in rural areas in favour of resident citizens, the attractiveness of young farmers as well as the implementing measures for an inclusive growth.

These aspects, which make up a “social sustainability model” in the agri-food chain are strongly linked together and require a comprehensive policy regulation. This policy perspective includes a new perception of entrepreneurs and workers employed in rural areas intended for the production of food and related to the environmental protection.
Long noncoding RNA EPCART regulates translation through PI3K/AKT/mTOR pathway and PDCD4 in prostate cancer
Authors: Kohvakka Annika , Sattari Mina , Nättinen Janika , Aapola Ulla , Gregorová Pavlína , Tammela Teuvo L. J. , Uusitalo Hannu , Sarin L. Peter , Visakorpi Tapio , Latonen Leena
Published: August 2024

While hundreds of cancer-associated long noncoding RNAs (lncRNAs) have been discovered, their functional role in cancer cells is still largely a mystery. An increasing number of lncRNAs are recognized to function in the cytoplasm, e.g., as modulators of translation. Here, we investigated the detailed molecular identity and functional role of EPCART, a lncRNA we previously discovered to be a potential oncogene in prostate cancer (PCa). First, we interrogated the transcript structure of EPCART and then confirmed EPCART to be a non-peptide-coding lncRNA using in silico methods. Pathway analysis of differentially expressed protein-coding genes in EPCART knockout cells implied that EPCART modulates the translational machinery of PCa cells. EPCART was also largely located in the cytoplasm and at the sites of translation. With quantitative proteome analysis on EPCART knockout cells we discovered PDCD4, an inhibitor of protein translation, to be increased by EPCART reduction. Further studies indicated that the inhibitory effect of EPCART silencing on translation was mediated by reduced activation of AKT and inhibition of the mTORC1 pathway. Together, our findings identify EPCART as a translation-associated lncRNA that functions via modulation of the PI3K/AKT/mTORC1 pathway in PCa cells. Furthermore, we provide evidence for the prognostic potential of PDCD4 in PCa tumors in connection with EPCART.
Phase-stabilised self-injection-locked microcomb
Authors: Wildi Thibault , Ulanov Alexander E. , Voumard Thibault , Ruhnke Bastian , Herr Tobias
Published: August 2024

Microresonator frequency combs (microcombs) hold great potential for precision metrology within a compact form factor, impacting a wide range of applications such as point-of-care diagnostics, environmental monitoring, time-keeping, navigation and astronomy. Through the principle of self-injection locking, electrically-driven chip-based microcombs with minimal complexity are now feasible. However, phase-stabilisation of such self-injection-locked microcombs—a prerequisite for metrological frequency combs—has not yet been attained. Here, we address this critical need by demonstrating full phase-stabilisation of a self-injection-locked microcomb. The microresonator is implemented in a silicon nitride photonic chip, and by controlling a pump laser diode and a microheater with low voltage signals (less than 1.57 V), we achieve independent control of the comb’s offset and repetition rate frequencies. Both actuators reach a bandwidth of over 100 kHz, enabling phase-locking of the microcomb to external frequency references. These results establish photonic chip-based, self-injection-locked microcombs as low-complexity yet versatile sources for coherent precision metrology in emerging applications.
Quantitative analysis of electroporation-mediated intracellular delivery via bioorthogonal luminescent reaction
Authors: Wang Shiqi , Shcherbii Mariia V. , Hirvonen Sami-Pekka , Silvennoinen Gudrun , Sarparanta Mirkka , Santos Hélder A.
Published: August 2024

Efficient intracellular delivery is crucial for biotherapeutics, such as proteins, oligonucleotides, and CRISPR/Cas9 gene-editing systems, to achieve their efficacy. Despite the great efforts of developing new intracellular delivery carriers, the lack of straightforward methods for intracellular delivery quantification limits further development in this area. Herein, we designed a simple and versatile bioorthogonal luminescent reaction (BioLure assay) to analyze intracellular delivery. Our results suggest that BioLure can be used to estimate the amount of intracellularly delivered molecules after electroporation, and the estimation by BioLure is in good correlation with the results from complementary methods. Furthermore, we used BioLure assay to correlate the intracellularly-delivered RNase A amount with its tumoricidal activity. Overall, BioLure is a versatile tool for understanding the intracellular delivery process on live cells, and establishing the link between the cytosolic concentration of intracellularly-delivered biotherapeutics and their therapeutic efficacy.
Exploration of first onsets of mania, schizophrenia spectrum disorders and major depressive disorder in perimenopause
Authors: Shitomi-Jones Lisa M. , Dolman Clare , Jones Ian , Kirov George , Escott-Price Valentina , Legge Sophie E. , Di Florio Arianna
Published: August 2024

Although the relationship between perimenopause and changes in mood has been well established, knowledge of risk of a broad spectrum of psychiatric disorders associated with reproductive aging is limited. Here we investigate whether the perimenopause (that is, the years around the final menstrual period (FMP)) is associated with increased risk of developing psychiatric disorders compared with the late reproductive stage. Information on menopausal timing and psychiatric history was obtained from nurse-administered interviews and online questionnaires from 128,294 female participants within UK Biobank. Incidence rates of psychiatric disorders during the perimenopause (4 years surrounding the FMP) were compared with the reference premenopausal period (6–10 years before the FMP). The rates were calculated for major depressive disorder (MDD), mania, schizophrenia spectrum disorders and other diagnoses. Overall, of 128,294 participants, 753 (0.59%) reported their first onset of a psychiatric disorder during the late reproductive stage (incidence rate 1.53 per 1,000 person-years) and 1,133 (0.88%) during the perimenopause (incidence rate 2.33 per 1,000 person-years). Compared with the reference reproductive period, incidence rates of psychiatric disorders significantly increased during the perimenopause (incidence rate ratio (RR) of 1.52, 95% confidence interval (CI) 1.39–1.67) and decreased back down to that observed in the premenopausal period in the postmenopause (RR of 1.09 (95% CI 0.98–1.21)). The effect was primarily driven by increased incidence rates of MDD, with an incidence RR of 1.30 (95% CI 1.16–1.45). However, the largest effect size at perimenopause was observed for mania (RR of 2.12 (95% CI 1.30–3.52)). No association was found between perimenopause and incidence rates of schizophrenia spectrum disorders (RR of 0.95 (95% CI 0.48–1.88)). In conclusion, perimenopause was associated with an increased risk of developing MDD and mania. No association was found between perimenopause and first onsets of schizophrenia spectrum disorders.
Investigating Thermomyces lanuginosus and Purpureocillium lilacinum to produce advanced myco-materials through selective fungal decellularization
Authors: Verma Nikita , Jujjavarapu Satya Eswari , Mahapatra Chinmaya
Published: August 2024

The development of myco-materials and their potential applications.
A rapid and ultrasensitive paper sensor for Bacillus cereus Haemolysin BL detection
Authors: Wei Chunhao , Xu Xinxin , Guo Lingling , Qu Aihua , Wu Aihong , Xu Chuanlai , Kuang Hua
Published: August 2024

LFIA has been successfully applied to actual sample detection for Hbl B and L2, with an LOD of 1 ng mL−1.
Thiophene assisted cellular uptake enhancement for highly efficient NIR-II cancer phototheranostics
Authors: Zhang Yue , Yu Jia , Li Chunbin , Gong Jianye , Wu Yifan , Feng Lina , Chen Zihan , Sha Renmanduhu , Jiang Guoyu , Wang Jianguo
Published: August 2024

We proposed a strategy of thiophene assisted cellular uptake enhancement for achieving highly efficient NIR-II cancer phototheranostics.
Atmospheric oxidation pathways of CF3CH2CFCl2 (HCFC-234fb) with OH-radicals and Cl-atoms: insights into the mechanism, thermodynamics, and kinetics
Authors: Changmai Rabu Ranjan , Daimari Samsung Raja , Yadav Anand Kumar , Sarma Manabendra
Published: August 2024

This study investigates the reaction of HCFC-234fb with OH-radicals and Cl-atoms in the atmosphere through various reaction routes.
Regulating the electronic properties, quantum capacitance and photocatalytic activity of Sc2CO2 based on Y doping and strain
Authors: Ren Qing-Feng , Zhang Rui-Zhou , Li Xiao-Hong , Cui Hong-Ling
Published: August 2024

The doping of transition metals can effectively modulate the electronic structures and enhance the photocatalytic activity of MXenes.
Exploring the persistence of the fluorinated thiolate 2,3,5,6-S(C6F4H-4) motif to establish πF–πF stacking in metal complexes: a crystal engineering perspective
Authors: Jaime-Adán Everardo , Germán-Acacio Juan Manuel , Páez-Franco José Carlos , Lara Victor H. , Reyes-Marquez Viviana , Morales-Morales David
Published: August 2024

The relevance of the fluorinated thiolate 2,3,5,6-S(C6F4H-4) to serve as a reliable motif for the construction of πF–πF stacking interactions in a series of metal complexes in the solid state for its application in crystal engineering is Illustrated.
Recent advancements and challenges in the catalytic purification of volatile organic compounds
Authors: Ma Mudi , Albilali Reem , He Chi
Published: August 2024

With the development of industrialization, the emissions of volatile organic compounds (VOCs) are steadily increasing, posing a significant risk to atmospheric quality and public health.
Low cost paints reinforced with an Al2O3/Y2O3/graphene nanocomposite for fire-resistant wood coating applications
Authors: El-Tantawy Ahmed , Hassan Ibrahim M. , El-kady Omayma A. , Ali Ahmed. I. , Son Jong Yeog , Ayoub Nasser. M.
Published: August 2024

Low-cost eco-friendly 10wt%Al2O3/5wt%Y2O3/graphene (graphene nanosheets (GNSs): 0.5, 1.0, 1.5, 2.0, 2.5wt%) nanocomposite powders were fabricated using a powder metallurgy technique.
Spectroelectrochemical study of carbon structural and functionality characteristics on vanadium redox reactions for flow batteries
Authors: Phan Ha H. , Bell Jon G. , Mutch Greg A. , McCue Alan J. , Phan Anh N. , Thomas K. Mark
Published: August 2024

The oxidation of V(iii) to V(iv) only occurs on a limited number of specific functional group sites and the outer-sphere electron transfer to oxidize V(iii) only takes place at much more positive potentials.
In vitro identification of oridonin hybrids as potential anti-TNBC agents inducing cell cycle arrest and apoptosis by regulation of p21, γH2AX and cleaved PARP
Authors: Ning Jinhua , Zhan Nini , Wu Zhanpan , Li Yuzhe , Zhang Die , Shi Yadian , Zhou Yingxun , Chen Chuan-Huizi , Jin Wenbin
Published: August 2024

Oridonin analogue 11a showed significant antitumor efficacy in vitro via cell cycle arrest and apoptosis by regulation of p21, γH2AX and cleaved PARP accumulation, meanwhile, displayed much more stable than oridonin in human plasma.
A universal strategy of constructing Cr-NiFe MOF/CMC aerogel composite catalysts for efficient oxygen evolution reaction
Authors: Yu Xin , Zhang Jiangcheng , Jia Yuxin , Yao Hu , Su Baolian , Guo Xiaohui
Published: August 2024

We proposes a universal low-temperature sol-gel method to synthesize the composite of Cr-NiFe MOF on carboxymethyl cellulose (CMC) aerogel. The prepared Cr-NiFe MOF/CMC aerogel composite catalyst exhibited enhanced OER activity.
An unprecedented oxalate-functionalized Ta/W polyoxometalate enabling the self-assembly of a 2D composite for catalytic hydrogenation
Authors: Li Shujun , Huang Meng-Yao , Cheng Weiyi , Shah Waqas Ali , Dai Xu-Sheng , Ma Nana , Zhao Qianyi , Chen Xuenian
Published: August 2024

The first-ever oxalate-functionalized Ta-polyoxometalate was synthesized and integrated into a graphene composite, Pd/(C2O4-POM)@rGO, displaying outstanding catalytic performance in olefin hydrogenation.
Metal–organic framework derived micro-/nano-materials: precise synthesis and clean energy applications
Authors: Zhang Guangxun , Li Xinyi , Liu Yuxin , Du Guangyu , Pang Huan
Published: August 2024

We summarize the different synthetic strategies of MOF-derived micro-/nano-materials to date, including but not limited to calcining, phosphating, sulfurization, the selenylation method, ion exchange, and etching strategies.
Enhancers of amyloid aggregation: novel ferrocene-based compounds selective toward amyloid models
Authors: La Manna Sara , Di Natale Concetta , Panzetta Valeria , Netti Paolo Antonio , Merlino Antonello , Kowalski Konrad , Marasco Daniela
Published: August 2024

Two ferrocene metal complexes containing propen-thymines as ligands have been shown to be selective modulators of the Aβ21–40 amyloid aggregation and may be conceived as a future class of therapeutic agents in the early stages of amylogenesis.
Mechanochromic hydrogen-bonded cocrystals with a salient effect upon heating
Authors: Navarro-Huerta Armando , Juárez-Calixto Antonio , Sandoval-Salinas María Eugenia , Amador-Sánchez Yoarhy A. , Rodríguez-Hernández Joelis , Núñez-Pineda Alejandra , Rodríguez Mario , Crespo-Otero Rachel , Rodríguez-Molina Braulio
Published: August 2024

Herein, we report the characterization of two hydrogen-bonded cocrystals, termed AC-TFTA and AC-PFBA, with mechanofluorochromism upon grinding.
Getting the intermolecular forces correct: introducing the ASTA strategy for a water model
Authors: Mareš Jiří , Mayorga Delgado Pau
Published: August 2024

For simple water models, parameters giving the best intermolecular forces cannot provide accurate bulk properties. For AMOEBA model, such parameters can be found.
High adsorption to methylene blue based on Fe3O4–N-banana-peel biomass charcoal
Authors: Gong Zhu-Xiang , Steven Mfitumucunguzi , Chen Yan-Ting , Huo Li-Zhu , Xu Hao , Guo Chao-Fei , Yang Xue-Juan , Wang Yu-Xuan , Luo Xi-Ping
Published: August 2024

This research focused on utilizing banana peel as the primary material for producing mesoporous biomass charcoal through one-step potassium hydroxide activation.
Selection of DNA aptamers for sensing drugs treating eye disease: atropine and timolol maleate
Authors: Wong Ka-Ying , Liu Yibo , Phan Chau-Minh , Jones Lyndon , Wong Man-Sau , Liu Juewen
Published: August 2024

Using capture-SELEX, DNA aptamers for two important ocular drugs were obtained, allowing highly sensitive detection of low volume samples.
Towards a dynamic flow calculation method based on Schur complement for natural gas network
Authors: Shi Bohan , Su Jia , Xue Yixun , Chang Xinyue , Li Zening , Sun Hongbin
Published: August 2024

The energy transfer process of natural gas network (NGN) has remarkable dynamic characteristics. However, the model of the gas network dominated by partial differential equations (PDEs) is challenging to analyse due to its heterogeneous properties, high dimensionality, and significant non‐linearity. To cope with the dynamic characteristics of the NGN effectively and accurately, the Schur complement‐based dynamic flow calculation method for the NGN is proposed in the paper. Firstly, a time‐domain two‐port model for the dynamic characteristics of the NGN is derived based on the finite difference method in the Wendroff format. The PDEs are transformed into an easily solvable time‐domain linear algebraic model while ensuring the accuracy of the computational results. To alleviate the computational burden, a numerical method based on the Schur complement strategy is then developed. By reducing the dimensions of the matrix equation, the computation speed can be dramatically improved. Finally, case analyses are carried out to emphasise the significance of consideration of the dynamic characteristics of NGNs and confirm the validity and precision of the developed approach.
Removal of Nitrate in Aqueous Solution by Adsorption using Activated Carbon from Peanut (Arachis hypogaea) Shells Impregnated with Zn2+from ZnCl2Solution
Authors: Erasga Eden S. , Soriano Audrey John A. , Moral Kristine Mikaela M. , Magimot Gianerose Danielle V.
Published: August 2024

High levels of nitrate in water have negative impacts on human health and the environment. Among the various technologies used to remove nitrates, adsorption has been extensively studied and has demonstrated enhanced effectiveness, particularly with surface modifications. In this study, nitrate removal from aqueous solution was investigated using activated carbon from peanut shells (ACPS) and ACPS impregnated with Zn2+(ACPS-Zn) from ZnCl2solution. The surface morphology of the prepared adsorbents was observed using scanning electron microscopy (SEM) and the elemental analysis was determined by Energy-Dispersive X-ray Spectroscopy (EDX). The effect of increasing contact time and adsorbent dosage on the nitrate removal using ACPS and ACPS-Zn were investigated. The highest nitrate removal efficiency is attained using ACPS-Zn with 2.5 g/100 mL adsorbent dosage at 5 min of contact time. Langmuir and Freundlich adsorption isotherms were used to describe the experimental results. Isotherm studies revealed that ACPS was best fit to Langmuir adsorption isotherm and ACPS-Zn was best fit to Freundlich adsorption isotherm and kinetics studies showed that the adsorption mechanism adheres to the pseudo-second order kinetic model. Results of the study showed that impregnation with Zn2+enhanced the efficiency of nitrate removal by the adsorbent.
Low Carbon Emission Vehicle Adoption and Production Barriers in Indonesia: A DEMATEL Approach
Authors: Sasongko Triyono Widi , Ciptomulyono Udisubakti , Wirjodirdjo Budisantoso , Prastawa Andhika
Published: August 2024

The environmental background for reducing greenhouse gas emissions drives a shifting program to gradually replace the internal combustion engine vehicles (ICEVs) with electric vehicles (EVs). Electric vehicles are part of low-carbon emission vehicles promoted in sustainability transportation. In Indonesia, EV sales volume has risen significantly during the last three years. However, it is still far from the targeted number stated in the roadmap of EV development. Economic factors are the main barriers to EV adoption and production, as are other sustainable product problems. Therefore, the research evaluates the structure of the nine economic barriers related to users, EV manufacturers, EV charging station providers, and the government using the DEMATEL method. The result concludes that the most significant barrier is the domination of global original equipment manufacturers (OEMs), followed by EVs as the disruptive technology and products; most automotive customers are economy users, and the EV purchase prices are higher than ICEV prices. The result benefits as the feed for further decision-making analysis determined by the government for more effective affirmative policy to sustainable products.
Matrix of Cross Impact Multiplications Applied to a Classification Model: Sustainable Key Variable of Microhydro Power Plants in The Economics of Smart Society
Authors: Rachmawatie Dessy , Rizqi Additya , Al Hasibi Rahmat Adiprasetya
Published: August 2024

In recent years microhydro power plant designs have been scrutinized by various groups around the world for their benefits in offering better performance than conventional fossil fuels in meeting energy needs. The sustainable development of microhydro power plants can also make a major contribution to achieving clean energy goals and reducing greenhouse gas emissions. This research is a mixed method, using qualitative and quantitative methods of analysis. As a result, the variable realizing an energy-independent society (MME) consistently ranks at the top of the MDI matrix as a dependent variable. This shows that the role of these variables in the sustainability of the development of the MHP is strongly influenced by other variables. In conclusion, it has been found that 3 variables have direct and indirect influences on the sustainability of the development of the MHPP. These variables are regulations that support microhydro from the central government (PPU), cooperation between related parties (KJA), and a consistently applied microhydro energy transition policy (TSE). The government has an important role in the development of MHPP to achieve energy diversification through regulations and policies together with many parties to build a smart society to support the energy transition in Indonesia.
Patientensicherheit im Innovationsfonds – Charakterisierung,
Resultate und Bewertung abgeschlossener Projekte: Ergebnisse eines Scoping
Reviews
Authors: Harst Lorenz , Walther Felix , Rüthrich Lilly , Keßler Laura , Lindemann Christina , Härter Martin , Farin-Glattacker Erik , Geraedts Max , Schmitt Jochen
Published: August 2024

Der Innovationsfonds hat inzwischen verschiedene Studien zur Patientensicherheit
gefördert. Deren thematisches Spektrum, methodische Güte, Ergebnisse und
Empfehlungen des Innovationsausschusses sollten systematisch aufbereitet und
Vorschläge zur Optimierung des Transfererfolgs abgeleitet werden. Im Rahmen
eines Scoping-Reviews wurden alle im Zeitraum 2016–02/2023 geförderten
Innovationsfonds-Projekte mit Fokus auf Patientensicherheit analysiert. Die
eingeschlossenen Studiendokumente wurden von je zwei unabhängigen Personen
kritisch begutachtet. Die 16 eingeschlossenen Projekte adressierten ein breites
Spektrum von Populationen, Indikationen und Interventionen. Die Studienqualität
war weitestgehend gut. Die Ergebnisse reichten von machbaren Indikatorensets
über die Vermeidung unerwünschter Arzneimittelnebenwirkungen bis zur Optimierung
des Fehlermanagements. Für sieben Projekte empfahl der Innovationsausschuss eine
Weiterleitung der Ergebnisse an Institutionen des Gesundheitswesens mit der
Bitte um Kenntnisnahme und/oder Prüfung der Umsetzbarkeit in der
Regelversorgung, die aber bisher ausblieb. Für eine Überführung in die
Regelversorgung ist die gemeinsame Erarbeitung einer Implementierungsstrategie
unter den Adressaten der Empfehlungen des Innovationsausschusses vonnöten.
Perioperatives Management bei Gerinnungsstörungen in der Ophthalmochirurgie
Authors: Sucker Christoph , Zeitz Oliver , Feltgen Nicolas
Published: August 2024

Störungen der Blutgerinnung können zu spontanen Blutungsmanifestationen und einem erhöhten Blutungsrisiko bei operativen Eingriffen und Interventionen führen. Pathophysiologisch lassen sich Defekte der primären Hämostase, die zu einer gestörten Thrombozytenadhäsion und Thrombozytenaggregation führen, sowie Störungen der sekundären (plasmatischen) Hämostase, die durch eine Beeinträchtigung der Fibrinbildung oder Fibrinstabilisierung charakterisiert sind, unterscheiden. Ätiologisch kann man seltene genetisch determinierte hereditäre Defekte und häufige erworbene Gerinnungsstörungen unterscheiden, denen unterschiedliche Pathomechanismen zugrunde liegen können. Mit dieser Übersicht soll Ophthalmochirurgen eine Grundlage zum perioperativen Management von Patienten mit genetisch determinierten Gerinnungsstörungen gegeben werden, die sich einem ophthalmochirurgischen Eingriff unterziehen müssen. Da diesbezüglich keine spezifischen Empfehlungen existieren, beruhen die Empfehlungen
auf dem Vorgehen bei sonstigen operativen Eingriffen, wobei das spezifische Blutungsrisiko im Rahmen der Ophthalmochirurgie berücksichtigt wird.
Erste Erfahrungen zur endoskopischen Lungenvolumenreduktion mit der FreeFlow Coil #4 – Eine Fallserie mit drei Patienten
Authors: Fiedler Paul Ferdinand , Franke Karl-Josef
Published: August 2024

Die Lungenvolumenreduktionstherapie ist ein etabliertes Verfahren zur Behandlung des
schwergradigen Lungenemphysems. Bei Patienten mit positiver Kollateralventilation ist die
Behandlung mit Nitinol-Coils das einzige Verfahren zur endoskopischen Lungenvolumenreduktion,
welches vom Gemeinsamen Bundesausschuss positiv bewertet wurde und welches in Deutschland
somit außerhalb von Studien mit gesichertem Reimbursement durchgeführt werden kann. Nachdem
die Produktion der initialen Nitinol-Coils nach Übernahme des einzigen Herstellers durch einen
Großkonzern für mehrere Jahre gestoppt wurde, ist seit Ende 2022 eine neue Nitinol-Coil, die
sog. Coil #4, wieder auf dem europäischen Markt verfügbar. Die Coil #4 besitzt eine andere
Form, einen anderen Applikationskatheter und der Implantationsmechanismus unterscheidet sich
vom Originalprodukt. Wir schildern unsere ersten Erfahrungen zur endoskopischen
Lungenvolumenreduktionstherapie mit der Coil #4 an drei Emphysempatienten. Die Therapie war
komplikationslos durchführbar. Bei allen Patienten kam es zu einer relevanten Verbesserung von
Lungenfunktionsparametern. Bei zwei von drei Patienten sahen wir eine klinisch relevante
Verbesserung der Gehstrecke im 6MWT (6-Minutes Walk Test) und eine Verbesserung der
Lebensqualität im SGRQ (St. George Respiratory Questionnaire) und CAT (COPD Assessment Test).
Die kleine Fallserie ist nach unserer Einschätzung ein Ausblick auf die potenziellen
Möglichkeiten der Coil #4. Bei aller Vorsicht der Bewertung sehen wir Anlass, die
Volumenreduktionstherapie mit der Coil #4 unter konstanter Evaluation weiter fortzusetzen bis
mehr Daten zur Verfügung stehen.
Designing social media to foster user engagement in challenging misinformation: a cross-cultural comparison between the UK and Arab countries
Authors: Noman Muaadh , Gurgun Selin , Phalp Keith , Ali Raian
Published: August 2024

Challenging others who post misinformation is a type of social correction that complements algorithm-based approaches. However, participation rates in such social acts remain limited. In this paper, we study design techniques that leverage principles of persuasive system design and communication theories to foster such prosocial behaviour across two distinct cultural contexts: the British and the Arab. A total of 462 participants completed an online survey (250 UK, 212 Arabs). The study compared the two cultural contexts regarding willingness to challenge misinformation and the persuasiveness of seven design techniques to increase that willingness, namely predefined question stickers, thinking face reaction, sentence openers, fact checker badge, social norm messages, tone detector, and private commenting. Moreover, it explores the impact of individuals’ characteristics on their perception of the techniques as being more or less persuasive than a standard comment box. The study found that the willingness to challenge misinformation was significantly higher in the Arab context than in the UK context. Moreover, except for the private commenting, all techniques were more impactful in the Arab context than in the UK context. Some techniques, such as predefined question stickers, were more effective in both cultures compared to the standard comment box, while others, like the fact checker badge, were more effective only in the Arab context. However, in the UK, sentence openers had a lower impact. Furthermore, personality traits, age, and perspective-taking showed the potential but also the varying impacts on the persuasiveness of the techniques on users’ correction of misinformation across both cultural contexts while pointing to the need for considering both personal and cultural factors in designing social-correction-based solutions.
Integral forms for tensor products of Virasoro vertex operator algebras and their modules
Authors: Guo Hongyan , Zhao Hongju
Published: August 2024

In this paper, we study integral forms of the tensor products of Virasoro vertex operator algebras ⊗i∈IL(cpi,qi,0)⊗ni and their modules. On the one hand, with the tool of binary linear codes, we show the existence and give constructions of integral forms of the tensor product vertex operator algebras that contain the conformal vector. Several interesting and explicit examples of codes are presented. On the other hand, we investigate the integral form theory of modules over the vertex operator algebra ⊗i∈IL(cpi,qi,0)⊗ni. More precisely, we construct integral forms of modules and contragredient modules for these tensor product vertex operator algebras. The integrality of intertwining operators among integral forms of ⊗i∈IL(cpi,qi,0)⊗ni-modules are also obtained.
Measurement-based cooling of many-body quantum systems
Authors: Elsayed Tarek A.
Published: August 2024

We introduce a novel technique for efficiently cooling many-body quantum systems with unknown Hamiltonians down to their ground states with a high fidelity. This technique involves initially applying a strong external field followed by a sequence of single-degree-of-freedom (single-qubit) measurements and radio frequency pulses to polarize the system along the field direction. Subsequently, the field is adiabatically switched off, allowing the system to evolve toward its ground state as governed by the quantum adiabatic theorem. We present numerical simulation results demonstrating the effectiveness of the technique applied to quantum spin chains with long-range and short-range interactions as prototypes for many-body quantum systems.
Feedback based gas sensing setup for ppb to ppm level sensing
Authors: Tom Abin , Singh Dharmendra Kumar , Shaw Vishal Krishna , Abhijith P. V. , Sajana S. , Kirandas P. S. , Dixit Viney , Kamble Vinayak , Pai S. P. , Jaiswal-Nagar D.
Published: August 2024

Sensing and quantification of gas at low concentrations is of paramount importance, especially with highly flammable and explosive gases such as hydrogen. Standard gas sensing setups have a limit of measuring ultra-low concentrations of few parts per billion unless the external gas cylinders are changed to ones with low concentrations. In this work, we describe a home-built resistance based gas sensing setup that can sense across a wide concentration range, from parts per billion to parts per million, accurately. This was achieved using two dilution chambers: a process chamber and a feedback assembly where a part of the output gas from the dilution chamber is fed back to the inlet mass flow controller, enabling enhanced dilutions without increasing the number of mass flow controllers. In addition, the gas-sensing setup can measure across a large temperature range of 77–900 K. The developed setup was then calibrated using palladium thin films and ZnO nanoparticle thin films. The setup was tested for reproducibility, concentration response, temperature response, etc. Corresponding sensitivity values were calculated and found to be in good agreement with published values, validating our setup design.
Giant negative electrocaloric effect in modified PbZrO3 antiferroelectric thin films doped with Mn
Authors: Liang Yongxi , Li Wenhua , Tang Xingui , Shen Zhihao , Wang Kaiyuan , Hu Jia , Song Wanglai , Jiang Yanping , Guo Xiaobin , Yan Kai
Published: August 2024

Negative charge card refrigeration, as a new solid-state refrigeration technology, has garnered much interest with its broad application potential in the area of temperature control for sensors and electronic devices. In this study, antiferroelectric thin films of Pb1−xMnxZrO3 (x = 0.0%, 0.5%, 1.0%, 2.0%, abbreviated as PMZ-100x) were prepared on tin oxide doped with fluorine/glass substrates by the sol-gel method. When the variable temperature P–E loops under various applied electric fields are compared, the P–E loops gradually change from linear to typical double P–E loops. This result implies that temperature and electric field work together to induce the phase change. The negative electrocaloric effect of the PMZ-0.5 film is greatly enhanced at 50 °C, 444 kV/cm, ΔS = 16.75 J·K−1·kg−1, ΔT = −16.39 K, in comparison to the PbZrO3 film (ΔS = 11.84 J·K−1·kg−1, ΔT = −12.48 K at 75 °C, 421 kV/cm). The great cooling performance indicates that PMZ-100x films have excellent potential for use in integrated circuit solid-state cooling.
Polar magneto-optical Kerr effect spectroscopy with a microscope arrangement for studies on 2D materials
Authors: Das Dibyasankar , Ghosh Sandip
Published: August 2024

We describe a setup for magneto-optical Kerr effect (MOKE) spectroscopy suitable for Kerr rotation (ϕ) and ellipticity (η) measurement on microscopic samples, such as flakes of two-dimensional materials. A spatial resolution of ∼25μm, limited by the demagnified monochromator exit slit image, was achieved. The use of mirrors allows for measurement in polar MOKE geometry with a conventional electro-magnet, without requiring holes in the magnet pole pieces. The microscope-like optics also has a 90° twisted periscope arrangement of two mirrors that helps transport light without change in its circular polarization state. A Jones matrix analysis of the setup brings out the influence of the beam-splitter on the measured signals. Its correction requires the ellipsometry parameters of the beam-splitter in transmission mode, which were measured separately. The working of the setup is tested by measuring the ϕ and η spectra of 2H-WS2 flakes at low temperature, verifying them using Kramers–Kronig analysis and extracting the Landé g-factor of the ground state exciton from them.
Realization of unidirectional zero reflection based on a loss–gain balanced metamaterial
Authors: Yi Chang-Hwan , Yim Geo-Su , Lee Sang Hun
Published: August 2024

In this work, we designed and fabricated an acoustic metamaterial with unidirectional zero reflection. The metamaterial was developed based on the concept of a parity-time symmetric material using one-dimensional (1D) orifice-type unit cells as a loss material and cylindrical closed-end tubes as a gain material. Twenty such composite unit cells were connected in series to construct a one-dimensional loss–gain balanced metamaterial. The characteristics of reflection and transmission were studied at frequencies between 1100 and 1800 Hz, ensuring that the metamaterial met the conditions of a homogeneous medium. From the experiments, it was found that the designed loss–gain balanced metamaterial had nearly complete unidirectional zero reflection (r≲1.6%) at f=1202 Hz; in addition, it was shown to exhibit bidirectional zero transmission (t≃0) at f=1501 Hz.
Ultrafast optical pumping induced polarity and chirality reversal of Néel skyrmions in amorphous GdFeCo ferrimagnet
Authors: P Syam Prasad , Mohanty Jyoti Ranjan
Published: August 2024

The development of next-generation data storage devices relies on the efficient control of topological spin textures at ultrafast timescales with minimal energy consumption. Here, we theoretically investigate the switching of the magnetic skyrmion in ferrimagnetic GdFeCo utilizing the helicity-independent all-optical switching (HI-AOS) driven by femtosecond laser pulses. Our study demonstrates the switching of Néel skyrmion between the two degenerate skyrmion ground states having opposite polarity and chirality. A systematic study was done by varying the laser fluence, and we found that single-shot skyrmion switching is observed for a range of fluence values, where optically induced magnetization switching is observed. The present study proves that HI-AOS is a potential mechanism for switching magnetic skyrmion at ultrafast timescales. Our results offer significant insight into implementing optical writing skyrmion-based memory devices.
Depth-resolved deuterium retention analysis in displacement-damaged tungsten using laser-induced breakdown spectroscopy
Authors: Wüst E. , Schwarz-Selinger T. , Kawan C. , Gao L. , Brezinsek S.
Published: August 2024

Fuel retention in plasma-facing components (PFCs) is a critical issue in future nuclear fusion reactors operating with Deuterium-Tritium (DT) regarding nuclear safety and fulfillment of the T cycle. However, during DT plasma operation, highly energetic neutrons will induce damage in the lattice of W PFCs causing enhanced fuel retention in defects or traps. Laser-Induced Breakdown Spectroscopy (LIBS) is a potential tool to monitor the T-content in situ in PFCs of future nuclear fusion devices. This article presents an ex situ study on pre-damaged W material after D plasma exposure to qualify the method and mimic conditions expected in a reactor. ITER grade W samples were displacement-damaged by 10.8 MeV W ions to a damage dose of 0.23 dpa and exposed to low temperature deuterium plasma at low energy in PlaQ. The resulting deuterium concentration was analyzed by using 3He Nuclear Reaction Analysis (depth resolution of ≈150 nm) as a well-established method, and LIBS (picosecond laser pulses, depth resolution of 15 nm). The sample with the highest deuterium concentration showed a deuterium-rich zone up to a depth of 1.13 μm using both techniques. This is close to the expected W ion-induced damage depth of  ≈1 μm. The results imply that LIBS as an in situ technique for tritium monitoring could be a viable option for a reactor.
Nanometer-thick molecular beam epitaxy Al films capped with in situ deposited Al2O3—High-crystallinity, morphology, and superconductivity
Authors: Lin Y. H. G. , Cheng C. K. , Young L. B. , Chiang L. S. , Chen W. S. , Lai K. H. , Chiu S. P. , Wu C. T. , Liang C. T. , Lin J. J. , Hsu C. H. , Lin Y. H. , Kwo J. , Hong M.
Published: August 2024

Achieving high material perfection in aluminum (Al) films and their associated Al/AlOx heterostructures is essential for enhancing the coherence time in superconducting quantum circuits. We grew Al films with thicknesses ranging from 3 to 30 nanometers (nm) epitaxially on sapphire substrates using molecular beam epitaxy (MBE). An integral aspect of our work involved electron-beam (e-beam) evaporation to directly deposit aluminum oxide (Al2O3) films on the freshly grown ultrathin epitaxial Al films in an ultra-high-vacuum (UHV) environment. This in situ oxide deposition is critical for preventing the oxidation of parts of the Al films, avoiding the formation of undesired native oxides, and thereby preserving the nm-thick Al films in their pristine conditions. The thicknesses of our Al films in the study were accurately determined; for example, coherence lengths of 3.0 and 20.2 nm were measured in the nominal 3.0 and 20 nm thick Al films, respectively. These Al films were epitaxially grown on sapphire substrates, showing an orientational relationship, denoted as Al(111)⟨21¯1¯⟩∥sapphire(0001)[21¯1¯0]. The Al/sapphire interface was atomically ordered without any interfacial layers, as confirmed by in situ reflection high-energy electron diffraction (RHEED) and cross-sectional scanning transmission electron microscopy (STEM). All sample surfaces exhibited smoothness with a roughness in the range of 0.1–0.2 nm. The Al films are superconducting with critical temperatures ranging from 1.23 to around 2 K, depending on the film thickness.
Assessment of residual stress evolution in glass-to-metal seals amid heating process: Insights from in situ observations and finite-element analysis
Authors: Gong Keqian , Song Zifeng , Cai Yangyang , Liu Zheng , Shi Zhangjing , Zhou Chao , Yan He , Zhang Yong
Published: August 2024

The dynamics of residual stress (RS) within glass-to-metal (GTM) seals play a crucial role in their operational efficacy, with the progression of RS in response to temperature variations being a critical aspect in engineering applications. This research utilizes fiber Bragg grating sensors and temperature-calibrated photoluminescence spectroscopy techniques for the in situ monitoring of RS changes within GTM seals during heating. Initially, the glass body exhibited a compressive stress of −203 MPa, while the stress in the glass close to the interface was −367 MPa at room temperature. With increasing temperature, RS within both the glass body and in the glass close to the interface transitions through three distinct phases: a near-linear decrease, a rapid decrease, and a shift from compressive to tensile stress. By 540 °C, tensile stresses of approximately 11 MPa within the glass body and 36 MPa in the glass close to the interface were observed. The study elucidates that RS evolution is intricately linked not only to the thermal expansion properties of the constituent materials but also to the β-relaxation phenomenon within the glass structure and the presence of an oxide layer at the interface. Finite-element analysis simulations were conducted to corroborate the experimental findings, illustrating a congruent RS evolution pattern and delineating the transition from a compressive to a tensile state. This investigation provides empirical data and analytical insights concerning the management of RS in GTM seals, underscoring the significance of RS control in maintaining seal integrity.
Characterization of dielectric diffraction gratings on multilayer structures by spectroscopic ellipsometry
Authors: Henn Sebastian , Grundmann Marius , Sturm Chris
Published: August 2024

Gratings are widely used for coupling into and out of evanescent and propagating electromagnetic modes, which are otherwise not accessible due to their large in-plane wave vector. A precise description of the optical response requires the knowledge of the grating geometry. Here, we present an investigation of the optical properties of dielectric gratings of sub-micron periodicity fabricated on a multilayer structure, which supports Bloch surface waves, by means of spectroscopic ellipsometry. Taking into account non-idealities, such as the finite spectral bandwidth, in the modeling process is shown to be a necessity for an accurate description of the observed spectra. The grating geometry determined from the analysis of ellipsometry data agrees very well with atomic force microscopy scans. Thus, our ellipsometric model is corroborated.
Modulating the mechanical properties and valence band of LiGaO2 by forming the highly mismatched Li(Ga1−xBix)O2 alloys
Authors: Kang Sixin , Wang Jiayuan , Fan S. W.
Published: August 2024

β-LiGaO2 with a wurtzite-like crystal structure is a direct ultra-wide bandgap semiconductor. Similar to many wide bandgap oxides, the valence band of LiGaO2 is predominantly composed of O-2p orbital, leading to a low valence band position, drastically limiting its applications. In this work, we employ first-principles calculations to demonstrate that adding a small amount of Bi into LiGaO2 to form the highly mismatched Li(Ga1−xBix)O2 alloys can dramatically modulate the valence band compositions. Compared to LiGaO2, the valence band maximum of the alloys is significantly elevated, and a fully occupied intermediate valence band appears, further raising the valence band positions. Despite the appearance of intermediate valence bands that significantly reduce the alloys’ bandgap, the bandgap remains over 3.10 eV, ensuring visible light transparency. With increasing Bi composition in the alloys, the bulk modulus increases while the shear modulus gradually decreases, which improves the ductility. Moreover, the compliant elastic constants of the alloys indicate mechanical stability. These findings suggest that Li(Ga1−xBix)O2 alloys are promising flexible transparent conductive oxides, offering valuable insights for future applications.
Highly efficient wide-bandgap perovskite solar cells prepared by fixing charge passivation in the interface layer
Authors: Guo Haikuo , Guo Jingwei , Wu Kai , Yang Haoran , Wei Jiali , Wang Xin , Liu Rui , Li Tiantian , Zhu Chengjun , Hou Fuhua
Published: August 2024

The severe stress on the surface of the wide-bandgap perovskite film will extend to the carrier transport layer (CTL)/metal electrode interface, leading to increased roughness of the CTL surface. This, in turn, adversely affects carrier transfer at the interface and compromises device stability. To address this issue, we devised a localized contact structure wherein molybdenum oxide (MoOx) interlayers of specific thickness were vacuum-deposited at the CTL/metal electrode interface to change the path of carrier transfer. Characterizations of the MoOx localized contact structure were done by Kelvin probe force microscopy, capacitance–voltage (C–V), electrochemical impedance spectroscopy, and x-ray photoelectron spectroscopy. It was observed that MoOx interlayer can generate negative fixed charges at hole transport layer/Ag interface, which changes the carrier concentration distribution, enhances the built-in voltage, and promotes the transfer of carriers near the interface. Compared to wide-bandgap perovskite solar cells (WB-PSCs, Eg = 1.65 eV) lacking the MoOx localized contact structure, the efficiency of the optimized device increased to 20.5%, accompanied by enhancements in overall performance parameters. Notably, the thermal and light stability of the unpackaged devices have been significantly improved.
Distinct vibrational motions promote disparate excited-state decay pathways in cofacial perylenediimide dimers
Authors: O’Connor James P. , Schultz Jonathan D. , Tcyrulnikov Nikolai A. , Kim Taeyeon , Young Ryan M. , Wasielewski Michael R.
Published: August 2024

A complex interplay of structural, electronic, and vibrational degrees of freedom underpins the fate of molecular excited states. Organic assemblies exhibit a myriad of excited-state decay processes, such as symmetry-breaking charge separation (SB-CS), excimer (EX) formation, singlet fission, and energy transfer. Recent studies of cofacial and slip-stacked perylene-3,4:9,10-bis(dicarboximide) (PDI) multimers demonstrate that slight variations in core substituents and H- or J-type aggregation can determine whether the system follows an SB-CS pathway or an EX one. However, questions regarding the relative importance of structural properties and molecular vibrations in driving the excited-state dynamics remain. Here, we use a combination of two-dimensional electronic spectroscopy, femtosecond stimulated Raman spectroscopy, and quantum chemistry computations to compare the photophysics of two PDI dimers. The dimer with 1,7-bis(pyrrolidin-1′-yl) substituents (5PDI2) undergoes ultrafast SB-CS from a photoexcited mixed state, while the dimer with bis-1,7-(3′,5′-di-t-butylphenoxy) substituents (PPDI2) rapidly forms an EX state. Examination of their quantum beating features reveals that SB-CS in 5PDI2 is driven by the collective vibronic coupling of two or more excited-state vibrations. In contrast, we observe signatures of low-frequency vibrational coherence transfer during EX formation by PPDI2, which aligns with several previous studies. We conclude that key electronic and structural differences between 5PDI2 and PPDI2 determine their markedly different photophysics.