bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Anisotropy of radiation-induced defects in Yb-implanted β-Ga2O3
Authors: Ratajczak Renata , Sarwar Mahwish , Kalita Damian , Jozwik Przemysław , Mieszczynski Cyprian , Matulewicz Joanna , Wilczopolska Magdalena , Wozniak Wojciech , Kentsch Ulrich , Heller René , Guziewicz Elzbieta
Published: October 2024

RE-doped β-Ga2O3 seems attractive for future high-power LEDs operating in high irradiation environments. In this work, we pay special attention to the issue of radiation-induced defect anisotropy in β-Ga2O3, which is crucial for device manufacturing. Using the RBS/c technique, we have carefully studied the structural changes caused by implantation and post-implantation annealing in two of the most commonly used crystallographic orientations of β-Ga2O3, namely the (-201) and (010). The analysis was supported by advanced computer simulations using the McChasy code. Our studies reveal a strong dependence of the structural damage induced by Yb-ion implantation on the crystal orientation, with a significantly higher level of extended defects observed in the (-201) direction than for the (010). In contrast, the concentration and behavior of simple defects seem similar for both oriented crystals, although their evolution suggests the co-existence of two different types of defects in the implanted zone with their different sensitivity to both, radiation and annealing. It has also been found that Yb ions mostly occupy the interstitial positions in β-Ga2O3 crystals that remain unchanged after annealing. The location is independent of the crystal orientations. We believe that these studies noticeably extend the knowledge of the radiation-induced defect structure, because they dispel doubts about the differences in the damage level depending on crystal orientation, and are important for further practical applications.
The spatial overlap between left atrial epicardial adipose tissue and fibrosis is not associated to clinical stage of atrial fibrillation
Authors: Skoda Iulia , Henningsson Markus , Karlsson Lars O. , Carlhäll Carl-Johan
Published: October 2024

Left atrial (LA) epicardial adipose tissue (EAT) and wall fibrosis are both proven to contribute to the pathogenesis and progression of atrial fibrillation (AF). The theory of LA wall fibrosis induction by local EAT infiltration, paracrine secretions, and activation of the inflammatory process is strongly advocated, but the imaging evidence for anatomical proximity of the two tissue types and its association to AF stage is lacking. Accordingly, the aim of the study was to analyse the spatial overlap between LA EAT and adjacent wall fibrosis using 3D Dixon water-fat separated late gadolinium enhancement (LGE-Dixon) MRI and correlate the findings with the clinical AF stage. Forty-two AF patients (18 paroxysmal, 10 persistent, and 14 permanent) and nine non-AF patients were scanned. The permanent AF patients had greater LA volume and EAT than the paroxysmal group. The LA fibrosis area showed the same trend. The LA EAT-fibrosis overlap area was small and there was no significant difference between the three AF stages. There was no significant relationship between LA EAT- fibrosis overlap area and AF type. The findings shed light on the complex interplay between LA fibrosis and EAT during the progression from paroxysmal to permanent AF.
Plaid masking explained with input-dependent dendritic nonlinearities
Authors: Bertalmío Marcelo , Durán Vizcaíno Alexia , Malo Jesús , Wichmann Felix A.
Published: October 2024

A serious obstacle for understanding early spatial vision comes from the failure of the so-called standard model (SM) to predict the perception of plaid masking. But the SM originated from a major oversimplification of single neuron computations, ignoring fundamental properties of dendrites. Here we show that a spatial vision model including computations mimicking the input-dependent nature of dendritic nonlinearities, i.e. including nonlinear neural summation, has the potential to explain plaid masking data.
Functional bias of contractile control in mouse resistance arteries
Authors: Haghbin Nadia , Richter David M. , Kharche Sanjay , Kim Michelle S. M. , Welsh Donald G.
Published: October 2024

Constrictor agonists set arterial tone through two coupling processes, one tied to (electromechanical), the other independent (pharmacomechanical) of, membrane potential (VM). This dual arrangement raises an intriguing question: is the contribution of each mechanism (1) fixed and proportionate, or (2) variable and functionally biased. Examination began in mouse mesenteric arteries with a vasomotor assessment to a classic Gq/11 (phenylephrine) or Gq/11/G12/13 (U46619) agonist, in the absence and presence of nifedipine, to separate among the two coupling mechanisms. Each constrictor elicited a concentration response curve that was attenuated and rightward shifted by nifedipine, findings consistent with functional bias. Electromechanical coupling preceded pharmacomechanical, the latter’s importance rising with agonist concentration. In this regard, ensuing contractile and phosphorylation (CPI-17 & MYPT1 (T-855 & T-697)) measures revealed phenylephrine-induced pharmacomechanical coupling was tied to protein kinase C (PKC) activity, while that enabled by U46619 to PKC and Rho-kinase. A complete switch to pharmacomechanical coupling arose when agonist superfusion was replaced by pipet application to a small portion of artery. This switch was predicted, a priori, by a computer model of electromechanical control and supported by additional measures of VM and cytosolic Ca2+. We conclude that the coupling mechanisms driving agonist-induced constriction are variable and functionally biased, their relative importance set in accordance with agonist concentration and manner of application. These findings have important implications to hemodynamic control in health and disease, including hypertension and arterial vasospasm.
Phylogenetic analysis of selected species of Asteraceae on the basis of RPS 11 Gene
Authors: Zahra Syeda Anber , Iqbal Javed , Abbasi Banzeer Ahsan , Kanwal Sobia , Alwahibi Mona S. , Elshikh Mohamed S. , Rizwan Muhammad , Iqbal Rashid , Mahmood Tariq
Published: October 2024

The Asteraceae family is a prominent group of flowering plants found across the globe, with the exception of Antarctica. The Asteraceae family is a largest flowering family pivotal group in plant evolution and diversification. Despite its importance, the genetic diversity within this family remains understudied. We focused on the rps-11 gene, a chloroplast marker previously utilized in phylogenetic studies, to investigate its potential in resolving Asteraceae relationships. The focus was on examining genetic diversity within sixteen specifically chosen species from the Asteraceae family. This assessment was based on an analysis of a chloroplast gene responsible for encoding the ribosomal protein of the smaller subunit 11 (rps 11). Nearly 417 bp of rps 11 gene was amplified, sequenced, computationally translated into amino acid sequence and the data was used for phylogenetic analysis as well as for rps 11 protein structure predictions. Based on nucleotide and amino acid sequences phylograms were drawn with the help of Molecular Evolutionary Genetic Analysis (MEGA 6), which exhibited clear genetic relationship among species under investigation. The observed genetic distance was 0.02 for Maximum likelihood tree based on nucleotide sequences whereas it was 0.05 for phylogram based on amino acid sequences. These values revealed that amino acid-based tree has demonstrated greater diversity among selected species in comparison to nucleotides-based tree. On the basis of pair wise distance calculations, genetic divergence values were found within the range of 0.015–0.309. Moreover, 3D protein modeling for rps 11 protein of sixteen selected species was also carried out by iterative threading assembly refinement (I-Tasser) software. The models exhibiting the highest C-score were picked with satisfactory plot statistics (> 90%) and structurally validated by PROCHECK. Furthermore, Ramachandran plots displayed that the rps 11 protein structures of Tagetes minuta, Xanthium strumarium, Lactuca sativa and Chrysanthemum indicum have best feature models with > 90% of residues in the allowed region and ≤ 2% in the disallowed region. The research is not enough to stand alone to validate the viability of the rps11 gene as a prospective contender for phylogenetic analysis. İn future we will focus on the maximum genetic diversity theory for phylogenetic analysis of this family.
Adaptive control of magnetic levitation system based on fuzzy inversion
Authors: Jastrzębski Marcin , Kabziński Jacek
Published: October 2024

A novel adaptive tracking controller for magnetic levitation systems (MLS) is developed. The controller is based on a special adaptive control scheme incorporating fuzzy model of electromagnetic acceleration enabling fast and accurate fuzzy inversion. The controller ensures accurate tracking of any smooth desired position signal, despite unknown MLS parameters. The closed-loop system stability, in the sense of uniform ultimate boundedness (UUB) of error trajectories, is proved using Lyapunov approach. The closed-loop system performance is investigated during numerical experiments. Finally the proposed controller is verified by successful implementation on a DSP board controlling a typical magnetic levitation ball system. Performed tests and experiments demonstrate that the proposed control technique is robust against discretization and unknown MLS model parameters, provides high tracking accuracy, is easily implementable, and simple to tune.
Ecological implications of row width and cultivar selection on rice (Oryza sativa) and barnyardgrass (Echinochloa crus-galli)
Authors: Reed Noah H. , Butts Thomas R. , Norsworthy Jason K. , Hardke Jarrod T. , Barber L. Tom , Bond Jason A. , Bowman Hunter D. , Bateman Nick R. , Poncet Aurelie M. , Kouame Koffi B. J.
Published: October 2024

Rice (Oryza sativa L.) producers in the Mid-south are experiencing difficulties with herbicide-resistant weeds such as barnyardgrass [Echinochloa crus-galli (L.) P. Beauv.]. As a result, methods that can alter E. crus-galli ecology are needed. This research evaluated the ecological implications of rice cultivar and row widths on crop and E. crus-galli growth. Overall, for E. crus-galli, as the row width increased, greater density, panicle counts, and seed production occurred. Echinochloa crus-galli density was 120% greater in a 38-cm row width than the 13-cm row width at the preflood rice stage. Reduced early-season rice canopy coverage in the wider row widths allowed for increased E. crus-galli densities. At the preharvest stage, E. crus-galli panicle counts were similar for the 13- and 19-cm rows. Row width did not affect rice yield, indicating wider row widths could be feasible agronomically, but additional weed management efforts would be needed because greater ecological advantages were obtained in narrower rows. Less E. crus-galli seed production occurred in competition with hybrid cultivars compared to inbred cultivars. Overall, the standard row width (19-cm) and hybrid cultivars would provide the greatest ecological advantage over E. crus-galli.
Nonlinear changes in urban heat island intensity, urban breeze intensity, and urban air pollutant concentration with roof albedo
Authors: Park Kyeongjoo , Baik Jong-Jin
Published: October 2024

This study systematically examines how the urban heat island (UHI) and urban breeze circulation (UBC) respond to an increase in roof albedo (αr) and its influence on urban air pollutant dispersion. For this, idealized ensemble simulations are performed using the Weather Research and Forecasting (WRF) model. The increase in αr from 0.20 to 0.65 decreases the UHI intensity, UBC intensity, and urban planetary boundary layer (PBL) height in the daytime (from 1200 to 1700 LST) by 47%, 36%, and 6%, respectively. As both UBC intensity and urban PBL height decrease, the daytime urban near-surface passive tracer concentration increases by 115%. The daytime UHI intensity, UBC intensity, and urban tracer concentration nonlinearly change with αr: For 0.10 ≤ αr < 0.80, the rates of changes in the UHI intensity, UBC intensity, and urban tracer concentration with αr overall increase as αr increases. For αr ≥ 0.80, the daytime roof surface temperature is notably lower than the daytime urban near-surface air temperature, the UHI intensity, UBC intensity, and urban tracer concentration very slightly changing with αr. This study provides insights into the associations between changes in roof surface temperature and roof surface energy fluxes with αr and those in UHI intensity.
Multifaceted effects of variable biotic interactions on population stability in complex interaction webs
Authors: Hashimoto Koya , Hayasaka Daisuke , Eguchi Yuji , Seko Yugo , Cai Ji , Suzuki Kenta , Goka Koichi , Kadoya Taku
Published: October 2024

Recent studies have revealed that biotic interactions in ecological communities vary over time, possibly mediating community responses to anthropogenic disturbances. This study investigated the heterogeneity of such variability within a real community and its impact on population stability in the face of pesticide application, particularly focusing on density-dependence of the interaction effect. Using outdoor mesocosms with a freshwater community, we found considerable heterogeneity in density-dependent interaction variability among links in the same community. This variability mediated the stability of recipient populations, with negative density-dependent interaction variability stabilizing whereas positive density-dependence and density-independent interaction variability destabilizing populations. Unexpectedly, the mean interaction strength, which is typically considered crucial for stability, had no significant effect, suggesting that how organisms interact on average is insufficient to predict the ecological impacts of pesticides. Our findings emphasize the multifaceted role of interaction variability in predicting the ecological consequences of anthropogenic disturbances such as pesticide application.
A click-based electrocorticographic brain-computer interface enables long-term high-performance switch scan spelling
Authors: Candrea Daniel N. , Shah Samyak , Luo Shiyu , Angrick Miguel , Rabbani Qinwan , Coogan Christopher , Milsap Griffin W. , Nathan Kevin C. , Wester Brock A. , Anderson William S. , Rosenblatt Kathryn R. , Uchil Alpa , Clawson Lora , Maragakis Nicholas J. , Vansteensel Mariska J. , Tenore Francesco V. , Ramsey Nicolas F. , Fifer Matthew S. , Crone Nathan E.
Published: October 2024

Background

Brain-computer interfaces (BCIs) can restore communication for movement- and/or speech-impaired individuals by enabling neural control of computer typing applications. Single command click detectors provide a basic yet highly functional capability.

Methods

We sought to test the performance and long-term stability of click decoding using a chronically implanted high density electrocorticographic (ECoG) BCI with coverage of the sensorimotor cortex in a human clinical trial participant (ClinicalTrials.gov, NCT03567213) with amyotrophic lateral sclerosis. We trained the participant’s click detector using a small amount of training data (<44 min across 4 days) collected up to 21 days prior to BCI use, and then tested it over a period of 90 days without any retraining or updating.

Results

Using a click detector to navigate a switch scanning speller interface, the study participant can maintain a median spelling rate of 10.2 characters per min. Though a transient reduction in signal power modulation can interrupt usage of a fixed model, a new click detector can achieve comparable performance despite being trained with even less data (<15 min, within 1 day).

Conclusions

These results demonstrate that a click detector can be trained with a small ECoG dataset while retaining robust performance for extended periods, providing functional text-based communication to BCI users.
Comprehensive profiling of serum glycosphingolipids to discover the diagnostic biomarkers of lung cancer and uncover the variation of glycosphingolipid networks in different lung cancer subtypes
Authors: Hu Ting , Han Feifei , An Zhuoling
Published: October 2024

Glycosphingolipids are glycolipid complexes formed by an oligosaccharide chain covalently linked to a ceramide backbone and play important roles in the occurrence and metastasis of lung cancer.
Effects of vegetarian diets on blood lipids, blood glucose, and blood pressure: a systematic review and meta-analysis
Authors: Xia Xin , Zhang Jinkai , Wang Xinfang , Xiong Ke , Pan Zhaobao , Wang Jinyu
Published: October 2024

Our systematic review and meta-analyses showed that vegetarian diets significantly reduced blood lipids and blood glucose and had null effects on blood pressure.
Minimalist columnar liquid crystals: influence of fluorination on the mesogenic behavior of tetramethoxytriphenylene derivatives
Authors: Guragain Parikshit , Powers Mitchell , Ellman Brett , Twieg Robert J
Published: October 2024

A set of short-tailed discotic liquid crystals are presented which feature a mesophase despite having methoxy units as tails. Their unusual properties are a result of strategic fluorination, with more fluorination leading to broader mesophase ranges.
Metal-free synthesis of N-fused quinazolino-quinazoline-diones as a MALAT1 RNA triple helix intercalator
Authors: Pathi Vijay Babu , Das Pranotosh , Guin Abhyuday , Debnath Manish , Banerji Biswadip
Published: October 2024

The development of chemical scaffolds that target highly conserved MALAT1 RNA received attention due to its significance in splicing, nuclear organization, and gene expression in disease progression pathways.
Design and synthesis of coumarin-based amphoteric antimicrobials with biofilm interference and immunoregulation effects
Authors: Tang Qun , Zhang Haiyang , Chandarajoti Kasemsiri , Jiao Zirui , Nie Lianhua , Lv Sai , Zuo Jiakun , Zhou Wen , Han Xiangan
Published: October 2024

Bacterial infections pose a threat to human and animal health, and the formation of biofilm exacerbates the microbial threat.
Stability of [10–12]cycloparaphenylene complexes with pristine fullerenes C76,78,84 and endohedral metallofullerenes M3N@C78,80
Authors: Freiberger Markus , Stasyuk Olga A. , Pérez-Ojeda M. Eugenia , Echegoyen Luis A. , Solà Miquel , Drewello Thomas
Published: October 2024

The stability and charge distributions of noncovalent complexes of [10–12]CPP with the pristine fullerenes C76/78/84 and the endohedral metallofullerenes Sc3N@D3h-C78, Sc3N@D5h-C80 and M3N@Ih-C80 (M = Sc, Y, Lu, Gd) are studied in the gas phase.
Single and dual-atom catalysts towards electrosynthesis of ammonia and urea: a review
Authors: Luo Wenyu , Liu Jiawei , Hu Yue , Yan Qingyu
Published: October 2024

Illustration of atomic catalysts in five different reactions: nitrogen reduction, nitrate reduction, nitrite reduction, nitric oxide reduction and urea synthesis. Advantages of diatom catalysts include those of single atom catalysts.
Engineering a pyrene MOF composite photocatalyst toward the formation of carbon dioxide radical anions through regulating the charge transfer from type II to Z scheme via a chemical bond-modulated strategy
Authors: Zhao Xin , Zhao Yajun , Li Yuan-Peng , Lyu Pengbo , Chen Chunying , Mo Zong-Wen , Peng Chao , Liu Jiewei , Zhang Li
Published: October 2024

A new approach was reported for regulating the charge transfer mechanism in a pyrene-based MOF composite, transitioning from a type-II to a Z-scheme configuration.
Large optical anisotropy in noncentrosymmetric phosphate with pseudo 2D intercalated layer
Authors: Xia Qiao , Jiang Xingxing , Qi Lu , Wu Chao , Lin Zheshuai , Huang Zhipeng , Humphrey Mark G. , Tatsumi Kazuyuki , Zhang Chi
Published: October 2024

A noncentrosymmetric phosphate (C3H5N2)(H2PO4) with pseudo 2D intercalated layers, which exhibits large birefringence and wide band gap, was successfully synthesized by simultaneously introducing the planar and tetrahedral motifs.
Metal-free visible-light-induced borylative/silylative pyridylation of vinylarenes
Authors: Zhou Yiting , Liu Bin
Published: October 2024

We present a metal-free and mild three-component reaction involving vinylarenes, NHC–BH3 complexes, hydrosilanes, and 4-cyanopyridine. Remarkably, this reaction was performed with simple and inexpensive benzophenone.
Ultrasound-assisted magnetic dispersive micro-solid-phase extraction based on carbon quantum dots/zeolite imidazolate framework-90/polyvinyl pyrrolidone/Fe3O4 followed by high-performance liquid chromatography with ultraviolet detection for trace analysis of paracetamol and etodolac in human plasma
Authors: Ahmadi Kimia , Abolfathi Aysan , Nasirimoghadam Sana , Moghaddam Kalkhoran Negar Nasiri , Zeeb Mohsen
Published: October 2024

Schematic diagram of the synthesis routes of CQDs/ZIF-90/PVP/Fe3O4.
Recent updates on potential of VEGFR-2 small-molecule inhibitors as anticancer agents
Authors: Chaudhari Prashant Jagannath , Nemade Aditya Ramchandra , Shirkhedkar Atul Arun
Published: October 2024

Essential structural motifs for design of Lead against VEGFR-2.
Synthesis of β-enamino malonates through caesium carbonate-promoted reaction of nitro-substituted donor–acceptor cyclopropanes
Authors: Jeny Sebastin Raj , Selvi Subramani , Deerkadharshini Murugaiya , Srinivasan Kannupal
Published: October 2024

A caesium carbonate-promoted reaction of nitro-substituted donor–acceptor cyclopropanes (DACs) with primary aromatic amines in water provides convenient access to β-enamino malonates under mild reaction conditions.
Nanomedicines as a cutting-edge solution to combat antimicrobial resistance
Authors: Solanki Raghu , Makwana Nilesh , Kumar Rahul , Joshi Madhvi , Patel Ashish , Bhatia Dhiraj , Sahoo Dipak Kumar
Published: October 2024

Antimicrobial mechanism of nanomaterials to combat AMR.
Experimentally-based Fe-catalyzed ethene oligomerization machine learning model provides highly accurate prediction of propagation/termination selectivity
Authors: Yang Bo , Schaefer Anthony J. , Small Brooke L. , Leseberg Julie A. , Bischof Steven M. , Webster-Gardiner Michael S. , Ess Daniel H.
Published: October 2024

In this work we developed a highly accurate experimentally-based machine learning model with bespoke features that can predict the rate of ethene oligomerization propagation versus termination.
Polyoxometalate-encapsulated metal–organic frameworks for photocatalytic uranium isolation
Authors: Dong Zhimin , Zeng Dongling , Li Zifan , Chen Junjie , Wang Youqun , Cao Xiaohong , Yang Guoping , Zhang Zhibin , Liu Yunhai , Yang Feng
Published: October 2024

We design polyoxometalate@Cu-MOFs via a self-assembly approach and unveil that the synergistic effect benefits the charge separation between the oxo-metal cluster and MOF, thereby boosting removal of U(vi) via adsorption and photocatalysis.
An efficient self-driven fog harvesting system based on a Kelvin waterdrop generator
Authors: Yang Xingsheng , Cui Yunfu , Li Yingli , Pei Hongru , Lin Wanpei , Dang Zhengling , Han Shenghui , Bai Suo , Sun Bo , Cheng Li
Published: October 2024

We report a new self-powered Kelvin waterdrop generator driven fog harvesting system with increased fog harvesting efficiency especially under low concentration fog conditions.
Zero-oxygen balanced fused 1,2,3,4-tetrazine (TNF) as a high-performance energetic material
Authors: Zhang Hui , Du Xinyu , Han Xudong , Cheng Gong , Chen Wenchuan , Xia Yingqi , Lai Qi , Yin Ping , Pang Siping
Published: October 2024

A straightforward synthesis of 2,9-bis(trinitromethyl)bis([1,2,4]triazolo)[1,5-d:5′,1′-f][1,2,3,4]tetrazine(TNF), achieving an ideal zero oxygen balance in the tetrazine–triazole framework with excellent overall performance.
Influence of TFSI post-treatment on surface doping and passivation of lead halide perovskites
Authors: Gkini Konstantina , Orfanoudakis Spyros , Harlaftis Filippos , Dallas Panagiotis , Kouzios Christos , Tsipas Polychronis , Kontos Athanassios G. , Konstantakou Maria , Stergiopoulos Thomas
Published: October 2024

Bis(trifluoromethane)sulfonimide (TFSI) treatment passivates the undercoordinated Pb2+ and iodide vacancies at the perovskite surface through its sulfonyl groups.
A skin-effect-inspired 3D solar evaporator for simultaneously achieving highly efficient steam generation and ultra-high salt resistance
Authors: Deng Renzhong , Li Yunqi , Li Qing , Qiu Yu , Feng Haixiang , Liu Yangming
Published: October 2024

A skin-effect-inspired solar evaporator (SEISE) with non-uniform porosity was designed to match thermal localization and water transport localization, thus simultaneously achieving excellent evaporation performance and ultra-high salt resistance.
An innovative electrohydrodynamics-driven SERS platform for molecular stratification and treatment monitoring of lung cancer
Authors: Zhang Tuotuo , Dong Biao , Wang Huiling , Zhang Shuai
Published: October 2024

A schematic electrohydrodynamics-driven SERS platform to profile four proteins on sEVs to generate a unique molecular signature for lung cancer stratification.
Chemically engineered exogenous organic reactions in living cells for in situ fluorescence imaging and biomedical applications
Authors: Song Gang , Yang Zhiwen , Huang Yiming , Bai Haotian , Lv Fengting , Wang Shu
Published: October 2024

Key intracellular in situ synthesis processes, including the synthesis of near-infrared fluorescent dyes, intracellular oxidative cross-linking, polymerization, and bioorthogonal reactions, as well as their biomedical applications were summarized.
Marcus inverted region in organic long-persistent luminescence host–guest systems designed from thermally activated delayed fluorescence molecules: a mechanistic study
Authors: Meng Yajie , Chen Xi , Li Yingqi , Shang Yunlong , Guo Yulin , Wu Yong , Wei Haiyan , Xu Jiawei
Published: October 2024

OLPL can be observed by doping TADF guest molecules into specific host materials, the mechanism of which is revealed using theoretical investigation.
Stabilization of the first-order phase transition character and enhancement of the electrocaloric effect by Na0.5Bi0.5TiO3 substitution in BaTiO3 ceramics
Authors: Karakaya Merve , Gürbüz İrem , Fulanović Lovro , Adem Umut
Published: October 2024

First-order character of the ferroelectric phase transition in BaTiO3 (BT) is maintained by Na0.5Bi0.5TiO3 (NBT) substitution, which in turn causes large electrocaloric response.
Tripling magnetite's thermoelectric figure of merit with rare earth doping
Authors: Suraj Kabir S. , Eivari Hossein Asnaashari , Tatara Gen , Assadi M. Hussein N.
Published: October 2024

Using density functional theory (DFT) and machine-learning force fields, we calculated the thermoelectric properties of magnetite doped with four rare-earth elements: lanthanum, cerium, praseodymium, and neodymium.
Enhanced near-infrared phosphorescence found in a structurally similar host–guest system
Authors: Ishi-i Tsutomu , Nakaya Misuzu , Umeki Tomoya , Matsumoto Taisuke , Lee Jun Hyeon , Yasuda Takuma
Published: October 2024

Enhanced NIR phosphorescence emission in the longer-wavelength region can be produced from a highly ordered host–guest aggregate structure arising from the same crystal packing pattern of the host and guest molecules with structural similarity.
Enhanced oxygen electrode performance in solid oxide fuel cells via La-doping of Pr2NiO4+δ-based Ruddlesden–Popper perovskites
Authors: Liao Zihao , Yang Yiping , Ou Dingrong , Tang Yuan , Wang Bo , He Binbin , Zeng Yu , Tian Yunfeng , Chi Bo
Published: October 2024

Enhanced oxygen electrode performance in solid oxide fuel cells via La-doping of Pr2NiO4+δ-based Ruddlesden–Popper perovskites.
Bilingual Children Demonstrate Variation Within Shared Narrative Macrostructure
Authors: Granados Vargas Alejandro , Peña Elizabeth D. , Bedore Lisa M.
Published: October 2024

Aims:

We investigate the relationship between narrative macrostructure, current language exposure, and microstructure in second-grade Spanish–English bilingual children in the United States. Macrostructure knowledge has been claimed to be shared across languages in multilingual individuals. We examine the role of current language exposure and microstructure on macrostructure and how individual children organize their stories in English and Spanish. We use sociocultural theory to investigate differences in the macrostructural elements children choose to include in their stories by language.

Methodology:

Using existing data, we used a two-sample
t
-test to compare average macrostructure and microstructure performance in English and Spanish in addition to performance on subcomponents of macrostructure. A correlational analysis was used to compare narrative performance in both languages. We used regression analysis to investigate to what extent current language exposure and microstructure influenced the macrostructure of 62 Spanish–English bilingual second graders' stories.

Results:

Children used more words and a greater variety of words in Spanish compared to English. However, they demonstrated comparable use of overall macrostructure across languages, in addition to variation in what macrostructure subcomponents they use by language of story elicitation. No statistically significant relationship was found between current language exposure and macrostructure, except for Spanish story structure. Correlational analysis revealed a significant relationship between macrostructure performance in English and Spanish. A significant relationship was found within languages between microstructure and macrostructure and across languages between Spanish microstructure and English internal state terms.

Discussion:

Findings are consistent with extant literature that claims macrostructure is shared across languages. Children require lexical diversity across languages to express their ideas organized within macrostructural elements. Although bilingual children tell comparably complex stories, they may be making culturally and linguistically specific decisions about what macrostructure components to include in their stories.
Cortical Tracking of Speech Is Reduced in Adults Who Stutter When Listening for Speaking
Authors: Gastaldon Simone , Busan Pierpaolo , Molinaro Nicola , Lizarazu Mikel
Published: October 2024

Purpose:

The purpose of this study was to investigate cortical tracking of speech (CTS) in adults who stutter (AWS) compared to typically fluent adults (TFAs) to test the involvement of the speech-motor network in tracking rhythmic speech information.

Method:

Participants' electroencephalogram was recorded while they simply listened to sentences (listening only) or completed them by naming a picture (listening for speaking), thus manipulating the upcoming involvement of speech production. We analyzed speech–brain coherence and brain connectivity during listening.

Results:

During the listening-for-speaking task, AWS exhibited reduced CTS in the 3- to 5-Hz range (theta), corresponding to the syllabic rhythm. The effect was localized in the left inferior parietal and right pre/supplementary motor regions. Connectivity analyses revealed that TFAs had stronger information transfer in the theta range in both tasks in fronto-temporo-parietal regions. When considering the whole sample of participants, increased connectivity from the right superior temporal cortex to the left sensorimotor cortex was correlated with faster naming times in the listening-for-speaking task.

Conclusions:

Atypical speech-motor functioning in stuttering impacts speech perception, especially in situations requiring articulatory alertness. The involvement of frontal and (pre)motor regions in CTS in TFAs is highlighted. Further investigation is needed into speech perception in individuals with speech-motor deficits, especially when smooth transitioning between listening and speaking is required, such as in real-life conversational settings.

Supplemental Material:

https://doi.org/10.23641/asha.27234885
Design and experiment of citrus picking system based on dual robot collaboration
Authors: Bao Xiulan , Shi Xinyu , Ma Xiaojie , Leng Junsong , Ma Zhitao , Ren Mengtao , Li Shanjun
Published: October 2024

For citrus trees cultivated by dwarf dense planting, the fruits are randomly distributed in space, which poses difficulties for mechanized picking. To improve picking efficiency, a citrus picking system based on dual robot collaboration is designed and a global scanning picking scheme that scans the entire fruit tree to achieve orderly fruit picking is proposed in this research. The dual‐robot calibration with the iterative method and closed‐form method is completed in the research. The picking problem is attributed to the single traveling salesman problem, and the trajectory planning and the picking task are completed with genetic algorithm in the research. The picking experiments are designed in the research. As a result, in the picking experiments, the average time for planning the picking sequence of citrus was 0.1184 s, the longest time is 0.1560 s. In each group of citrus picking experiments, the total picking time averaged 158.9 s, the longest group took 170 s, the picking success rate is 82%. The picking results show that the built dual‐machine system can effectively complete the picking task and meet the real‐time requirement of picking. The proposed dual‐robot picking system can provide a reference for the establishment of other picking robot system.
The impact of climatic variability on water resources in the Ouaoumana River basin in the Middle Atlas of Morocco (November 2021-May 2022)
Authors: Elkbichi Omaima , Elhoucein Layati , Elghachi Mohamed
Published: October 2024

This study is based on the evaluation and quantification of water resources in the Ouaoumana River basin, which is part of the Oum ER-Rabia basin and located in the Middle Atlas. The water resources of this watershed, which serve several purposes (such as filling the Ahmed El Hansali dam and irrigation), are facing numerous disturbances caused by climatic variability, high demand, and the overexploitation of groundwater. To conduct our study, we will rely on two methodologies. The first is a quantitative hydrological methodology based on flow measurements taken at several points along the river, from upstream to downstream, during the period from November 2021 to May 2022. This will generate hydrometric data, allowing us to extract the spatio-temporal variation in flows. The second methodology is statistical and will involve analyzing climatic data (rainfall, temperature) from the Taghzoute station, which is located downstream of the river basin, to better understand the climatic dynamics. The results indicate that the water resources of the Oued Ouaoumana watershed exhibit significant variation from upstream to downstream. The highest flow values are recorded in April, at 323 l/s, during the high-water period. However, in other months, including January, February, and March, the flow ranges between 20 l/s and 85 l/s, primarily due to heavy abstraction by local residents for farmland irrigation along the riverbanks, which creates several problems, especially for biodiversity.
Electronic and Optical Properties of Double Perovskite Oxide LaFeWO6: A Theoretical Understanding from DFT Calculations
Authors: Ejjabli Abdelkebir , Karouchi Mohamed , Errahoui Hamza , Bajjou Omar , Guerroum Jamal , Elhajji Aymene , Rahmani Khalid , Lachtioui Youssef
Published: October 2024

In recent years, double perovskite oxides have gained attention as promising candidates in the realms of solar cells and catalysis. By adjusting their composition and engineering the band gap, numerous materials are being developed for energy-related applications. Oxide perovskites offer the benefit of a longer carrier lifetime compared to halide perovskites, which is advantageous for energy applications. In this study, we present a systematic theoretical analysis of a double perovskite oxide, examining his composition. The associated electronic and optical properties are discussed, along with prospects for identifying highly efficient materials within this family. This paper reports the study of electronic and optical properties of double perovskite oxide LaFeWO6 by utilizing the FP − LAPW method within the framework of (DFT). Results of density of states and energy bands are presented. The direct band gaps have been found for the systems by using the GGA approximation. Calculations of optical properties is also presented by considering the variations of optical parameters as a function of incident photon energy. The results indicate that LaFeWO6 exhibits a suitable band gap (0.71eV) for visible light absorption, along with promising electronic properties, making it a candidate for photocatalytic and photovoltaic applications.
Outcomes of Del Nido and hyperkalemic blood cardioplegia in adult cardiac surgery with prolonged aortic cross-clamp times
Authors: Szpytma Malgorzata , Gimpel Damian , Ross Jordan , Newland Richard F. , Crouch Gareth , Rice Gregory D. , Bennetts Jayme S. , Baker Robert A.
Published: October 2024

Background: The utility and uptake of Del Nido cardioplegia in adult cardiac surgery is rapidly increasing. Cases with prolonged aortic cross-clamp times necessitate multi-dosing however an understanding of safe ischaemic times and definitive guidelines in this domain are lacking. Therefore, this study aimed to assess the safety and efficacy of our DNC strategy by comparing post-operative troponin profiles and clinical outcomes between Del Nido and hyperkalaemic cardioplegia for cases with aortic cross-clamp times of greater than 90 min. Methods: A single-centre, retrospective cohort study at Flinders Medical Centre and Flinders Private Hospital of patients undergoing composite cardiac surgery with a cross-clamp time longer than 90 min. Data was prospectively collected from the Flinders Cardiac Surgery Registry from June 2014 to December 2022. A propensity-matched (1:1) analysis was performed comparing patients receiving Del Nido cardioplegia (n = 194) to those receiving hyperkalemic blood cardioplegia (n = 194). The primary outcome was the postoperative troponin release profile with clinical events reported as secondary outcomes. Results: There was no difference in the peak or median troponin at 6, 12 and 72 h nor the number of patients with positive troponin profiles postoperatively between cohorts. There was no difference in clinical outcomes between groups with aortic cross-clamp times of 90 min which remained true in sensitivity analysis extending out to 120 min. The Del Nido cohort received less cardioplegia volume (p < 0.001) and were more likely to return to spontaneous rhythm (p < 0.002). Conclusion: Del Nido cardioplegia for anticipated aortic cross-clamp times of greater than 90 min provided equivocal post-operative troponin profiles and clinical outcomes compared to multidose hyperkalemic blood cardioplegia.
Impfung gegen RSV-Infektionen – Update und Ausblick
Authors: Koch Till , Kobbe Robin
Published: October 2024

Was ist neu?

Pathologie und Bedeutung der Grundlagenforschung 60 Jahre nach einer katastrophalen RSV-Impfstoffstudie mit Todesfällen bei Kindern erleben wir momentan eine rasant positive Entwicklung mit 3 zugelassenen Impfstoffen gegen RSV bei Personen >60 Jahre. Die Grundlagenforschung gegen RSV spielte auch eine entscheidende Rolle in der Impfstoff-Entwicklung gegen SARS-CoV-2.

Neue RSV-Impfstoffe Im Jahr 2023 erhielten innerhalb von wenigen Wochen gleich 2 äußerst ähnliche, proteinbasierte Impfstoffe die Zulassung der Europäischen Arzneimittelbehörde (EMA). Aktuell sind 3 aktive Impfstoffe gegen RSV zugelassen.

RSV-Impfung und Prävention bei Kindern Neben der aktiven Impfung von Schwangeren hat auch der von der STIKO empfohlene, lang wirksame monoklonale Antikörper Nirsevimab als einmalige passive Impfung von Säuglingen im 1. Lebensjahr das Potenzial, vor schwerer Erkrankung zu schützen, ohne den Aufbau einer natürlichen Immunität zu beeinträchtigen. Zahlreiche weitere RSV-Impfstoff-Kandidaten mit unterschiedlichem Grundgerüst und verschiedenen Herstellungsverfahren befinden sich in der klinischen Prüfung.
Primary Mediastinal Large B-cell Lymphoma – A Case Report
Authors: Duarte Bruno Pelinson Fogaça , Mendes Amanda Scaff , Rossini Ana Clara Parizoti , Carvalho José Carlos Medina , Sementilli Angelo
Published: October 2024

Primary mediastinal large B-cell lymphoma (PMBL) is an uncommon and aggressive subtype of non-Hodgkin large B-cell lymphoma that affects patients in the third and fourth decades of life. The objective of the present report is to describe the case of a male patient admitted to the emergency room with symptoms of dyspnea associated with signs of superior vena cava syndrome. The imaging exams revealed two masses in the mediastinum; the definitive diagnosis, established through an anatomopathological examination and immunohistochemistry, was of PMBL, and the patient was referred for chemotherapy.
Histology-Proven Gastrointestinal Metastasis from Nongastrointestinal Malignancies: Experience of This Rare Occurrence in a Single Center
Authors: Vangala Navatha , Uppin Shantveer G. , Gangula Supriya , Uppin Megha S. , Paul Tara Roshni , Gundeti Sadashivudu
Published: October 2024

Introduction Lymph nodes, lung, liver, bone, and brain are the commonest metastatic sites for malignancies arising in various body sites. Gastrointestinal (GI) tract is a very uncommon metastatic site and the present study describes the single-center experience of GI metastases from non-GI malignancies.

Aims and Objectives To study the spectrum of metastatic tumors to GI tract and elucidate their clinicopathological characteristics.

Materials and Methods This was a retrospective study done on cases diagnosed from 2015 to 2023 at our institute. All cases of non-GI malignancies metastatic to hollow GI tract were included. Cases with GI primary, hematological malignancies, cases with exclusive serosal deposits, and direct invasion of a GI organ from an adjacent primary tumor were excluded. Apart from hematoxylin & eosin (H&E)-stained slides, immunohistochemistry findings of these were reviewed.

Results Thirty-six patients were histologically proven GI metastases from non-GI malignancies diagnosed during the study period. Most cases were seen in 5th to 7th decade with a significant female preponderance (M:F of 1:8). The commonest metastatic GI sites were small bowel (n = 11), sigmoid colon (n = 9), and rectum (n = 7), followed by stomach (n = 3), appendix (n = 3), gall bladder (n = 2), and ampulla (n = 1). Stricture, perforation, and nodular mucosa were the most common endoscopic findings. The most common primary malignancies in females were ovarian serous carcinoma (n =21) followed by squamous cell carcinoma (SCC) of cervix (n = 8). In males, there was no site preference, and the primary sites included prostate, lung, kidney, and oral mucosa.

Conclusion The study highlights the rare occurrence of GI metastases from non-GI malignancies. Females are at greater risk of such metastases primarily from ovarian serous carcinoma and cervical SCCs.
Not so weak after all: institutional and partisan sources of parliamentary resilience in France and Finland during COVID
Authors: Navarro Julien , Raunio Tapio
Published: October 2024

During crises, executives are empowered at the expense of legislatures. This applied also to the COVID period. Focusing on two stable yet different European democracies, France and Finland, this article examines the internal and external factors affecting the ability of parliaments to control the executive during the pandemic. The empirical analysis considers institutional developments affecting parliaments as well as the behaviour of MPs. The benefit of hindsight enables us to assess the entire COVID period, showing that in both countries the initial dominance of the executive was followed by more assertive parliamentary behaviour. The results indicate that, despite difficult conditions, parliaments in both countries displayed adaptability and resilience, but power constellations pre-dating the COVID period impacted on the respective roles of the French and Finnish parliaments.
The Fear of Critical Race Methodologies
Authors: Harris Suzanne Temwa Gondwe
Published: October 2024

Critical race methodologies (CRM), which prioritise the experiences and knowledge of racialised peoples, have become a useful tool to identify and acknowledge racialised power relations in all aspects of the research process. However, engaging with these methodologies requires researchers to not only move away from western scientific research methodologies, which have historically excluded the knowledges and lived experiences of racialised peoples, but confront the legacy of methodological Whiteness. To explore this further, this article takes a self-reflexive account on why International Non-Governmental Organisations [(I)NGOs], who have a long history of (re)producing harmful images of racialised peoples, fear the adoption of CRM based on this tension. Drawing on Bantu Steve Biko’s and Lewis Gordon’s conceptualisation of racism, fear and Black Consciousness, this paper argues that CRM should not be seen as an attack on methodological Whiteness, but an opportunity to advocate for a sector-wide introspection on the methodological choices which not only centre on the inclusion of marginalised voices, but recognise the need for a redistribution of power to challenge prevailing hierarchies within (I)NGOs.
Isolator-free quantum dot comb lasers with optical feedback enhanced DWDM transmission
Authors: Cui Xiangru , Chen Jiajian , Huang Jingzhi , Yang Bo , Qin Jiale , Wang Wenlu , Duan Jianan , Wang Ting , Wang Zihao , Zhang Jianjun
Published: October 2024

Feedback-insensitive Quantum Dot (QD) comb lasers hold significant promise for integrated dense wavelength division multiplexing photonic systems due to their ability to generate multiple wavelengths and operate without bulky isolators, facilitating the development of high-density and large-scale photonic integrated circuits. In this study, we investigated the optical feedback (OFB) influence of the InAs/GaAs QD comb laser from various perspectives. Our findings reveal that the comb laser exhibits a stable locking region with consistent optical spectra across a range of OFB strengths (−45 to −10 dB). Furthermore, under a high OFB strength of −10 dB, there is a notable 40 dB suppression of relative intensity noise in the low-frequency range (below 1 GHz). Transmission experiments demonstrate clear eye openings at 25 Gbps using a bit pattern of 231-1 pseudorandom binary sequence. Remarkably, the bit error rates decrease by five orders of magnitude under −10 dB OFB. These results indicate the ultra-robustness of 100 GHz grid QD comb laser, which exhibits great transmission enhancement under a strong OFB of −10 dB.
A dual wave structure triboelectric sensor for heart rate and exercise monitoring
Authors: Liu Feng , Li Jianmin , Liu Zhewei , Wang Zhiqun
Published: October 2024

Recently, research on wearable devices for physiological exercise monitoring has garnered significant attention. Here, we propose a dual wave-structured triboelectric nanogenerator (DW-TENG) integrated with a cotton cloth, developed for smart running applications. The DW-TENG sensor leverages a flexible wave triboelectric layer composed of polydimethylsiloxane and silicone, with a copper electrode layer between them for sensing. This structure allows for customizable pressure sensitivity by adjusting the silicone hardness. Experimental results show that the DW-TENG achieves a sensitivity of 0.4 V kPa−1, with response and recovery times of 75 and 90 ms, respectively. The sensor effectively measures heart rate changes during various physical activities, including walking, running, and jumping. Electrical performance tests reveal that the DW-TENG’s output is significantly influenced by the silicone hardness, operational frequency, and microstructure height. The DW-TENG sensor demonstrates high durability and stability, maintaining consistent voltage output over 40 000 cycles. This research highlights the potential of the DW-TENG in multifunctional physiological and physical activity monitoring, providing real-time data on respiratory patterns, heart rate, and movement dynamics, thus enhancing athletic training, performance assessment, and health monitoring.