bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Neural noiseprint transfer: a generic noiseprint-based counter forensics framework
Authors: Elliethy Ahmed
Published: April 2023

A noiseprint is a camera-related artifact that can be extracted from an image to serve as a powerful tool for several forensic tasks. The noiseprint is built with a deep learning data-driven approach that is trained to produce unique noise residuals with clear traces of camera-related artifacts. This data-driven approach results in a complex relationship that governs the noiseprint with the input image, making it challenging to attack. This article proposes a novel neural noiseprint transfer framework for noiseprint-based counter forensics. Given an authentic image and a forged image, the proposed framework synthesizes a newly generated image that is visually imperceptible to the forged image, but its noiseprint is very close to the noiseprint of the authentic one, to make it appear as if it is authentic and thus renders the noiseprint-based forensics ineffective. Based on deep content and noiseprint representations of the forged and authentic images, we implement the proposed framework in two different approaches. The first is an optimization-based approach that synthesizes the generated image by minimizing the difference between its content representation with the content representation of the forged image while, at the same time, minimizing the noiseprint representation difference from the authentic one. The second approach is a noiseprint injection-based approach, which first trains a novel neural noiseprint-injector network that can inject the noiseprint of an image into another one. Then, the trained noiseprint-injector is used to inject the noiseprint from the authentic image into the forged one to produce the generated image. The proposed approaches are generic and do not require training for specific images or camera models. Both approaches are evaluated on several datasets against two common forensic tasks: the forgery localization and camera source identification tasks. In the two tasks, the proposed approaches are able to significantly reduce several forensic accuracy scores compared with two noiseprint-based forensics methods while at the same time producing high-fidelity images. On the DSO-1 dataset, the reduction in the forensic accuracy scores has an average of 75%, while the produced images have an average PSNR of 31.5 dB and SSIM of 0.9. The source code of the proposed approaches is available on GitHub (https://github.com/ahmed-elliethy/nnt).
Redução da subjetividade na classificação de criticidade de versão de software com o apoio de sistema especialista
Authors: Gatto Dacyr Dante de Oliveira , Evangelista João Rafael Gonçalves , Leonardis Roger Willian Joel , Sassi Renato José
Published: April 2023

Na execução de um  processo de gerenciamento de liberação de versão de software existe a necessidade por parte dos especialistas humanos executores do processo de classificar a criticidade de cada versão de software.  No entanto, a subjetividade desta classificação pode estar presente em função da experiência adquirida pelos especialistas ao longo dos anos. Com o objetivo de reduzir a subjetividade no processo, pode-se aplicar uma técnica de Inteligência Artificial denominada de Sistema Especialista (SE) para representar o conhecimento de especialistas humanos e utilizá-lo na resolução de problemas. Assim, o objetivo deste trabalho foi reduzir a subjetividade na classificação de criticidade de versão de software com o apoio de Sistema Especialista. Para tanto, elaborou-se um questionário com o objetivo de obter os pareceres de criticidade classificados em Alta, Média e Baixa de versão de software de cada especialista para auxiliar na elaboração das regras de produção do SE.  O SE gerou 17 regras de produção com grau de confiança de 100% aplicadas em uma base de dados de produção. Os resultados da classificação realizada pelo SE corresponderam à classificação realizada pelos especialistas na base de produção, ou seja, o SE conseguiu representar o conhecimento deles. Em seguida, aplicou-se outro questionário aos especialistas a fim de verificar a percepção sobre a satisfação em relação ao uso do SE com resultado obtido de 4,8, considerado satisfatório . Concluiu-se, então, que o SE apoiou na redução da subjetividade na classificação da criticidade de versão de software.
Proposta de algoritmo para desenvolvimento de modelos de previsão: aplicação numa série de dados de uma revenda de tintas
Authors: Milnitz Diego , Marchi Jamur Johnas
Published: April 2023

Neste artigo é proposto e aplicado um procedimento lógico para o desenvolvimento e seleção de modelos de previsão. Para tal, é sugerido um algoritmo que possibilita realizar avaliações e tratamentos estatísticos na série temporal a fim de poder testar e selecionar modelos robustos para posterior previsão de demanda. Com a ajuda de um estudo de caso sobre uma série de dados de uma empresa de revenda de tintas prediais, mostramos como a metodologia juntamente com a técnica de ARIMA podem ser usadas para desenvolver modelos mais adequados e confiáveis. Como resultado da aplicação do método é desenvolvido um modelo de previsão ARIMA (3,0,3), que apresenta um DPAM de 23,83% e um U the Theil de 0,79. Conclui-se através desse estudo que o processo de previsão de demanda é complexo e dinâmico, portanto, é relevante o uso de um algoritmo detalhado e organizado para garantir que tanto o modelo, bem como os resultados gerados, sejam condizentes com a realidade.
Scholastic Difficulty: Scale Development and Implications for Future Research
Authors: Biradar Shweta , Muktamath Vinuta
Published: April 2023

The present study is an attempt to develop a scale to measure Scholastic Difficulty among Pre-University college students. The students of II pre-university courses (PUC) were the real and objective source to identify different scholastic difficulties. So, 140 students of PUC were contacted. The information given by 140 students were pooled and the scholastic difficulties were identified. 68 different scholastic difficulties were adopted by the students. These difficulties were considered as scholastic difficulties. Each of the difficulty was expressed in a statement form. Initially, there were 68 statements, these items with “Always, Sometimes, Rarely and Never” alternatives were administered on 200 II PUC students (108 male and 92 female). The data of these students were subjected to percentage, correlation and t-test analysis. Finally, 66 items were included in the Scholastic Difficulty scale. Scholastic Difficulty scale consisting of 66 items with 5 alternative answers such as always, most of the times, sometime, rarely and never was administered on a random sample of 150 II PUC students to judge the reliability. The coefficient of split-half reliability was 0.93, which was significant at 0.01 level of significance. Test-retest reliability of scholastic difficulty scale was undertaken. The scale was administered on a sample of 35 students of I year B.H.Sc. twice with an interval of 10 days. The coefficient of test and retest scores was 0.800, which was significant at 0.00 level of significance.
Floristic Composition and Species Diversity of Wintering Herbs in Blue pine Forest of Thimphu District, Bhutan
Authors: Tshering Chungdu , Wangmo Tshering
Published: April 2023

Aims:  This study was carried out to document wintering herbs species in the blue pine (Pinus wallichiana) forest of Kawang Gewog under Thimphu district, Bhutan. To generate baseline data on species diversity and composition of the winter herbaceous layer in the blue pine forests of the study area.

Study Design: To evaluate the floral diversity and composition of herbs, stratified random sampling was used.

Place and Duration of Study: The study was conducted in Thimphu district within the altitudinal range of 2400 m to 2700 m A.S.L. The fieldwork was conducted during the month of December to January 2019 and during March 2020.

Methodology: Four line transects were established randomly, with sampling points placed at 25-meter intervals along the transect. For adequate data collection, three 3X3 meter quadrats were laid along a straight line perpendicular to the transect, using species-area Type I curves (strictly nested curves). Each quadrat was then divided into 100 equal sub-quadrats, with a distance of 5 meters separating each quadrat.

Results: A total of 60 herb species belonging to 46 genera and 22 families. The Shannon-wiener index of species diversity (H’) showed 1.73 value suggesting higher diversity in the study site with an altitude of 2600 m to 2700 m compared to other sites with an altitude range of 2400 m to 2500 m, H’ value of 1.59.

Conclusion: The study conducted reports the finding on diversity and the composition of herbs occurring in the winter season from Kawang Gewog under Thimphu district. The present study also discusses the diversity and evenness of herbs influenced by elevation and anthropogenic influences.
Screening of Antimicrobial Activity of Poly Herbal Extracts against Bacterial Pathogens Causing Gastroenteritis in Tharaka Nithi County, Kenya
Authors: Kiteme Mbithe P. , Onyango Benson O. , Njagi Eric C. , Ogolla Fredrick O.
Published: April 2023

Herbals   have been used for decades to treat gastrointestinal infections across the world, including in Tharaka-Nithi County, Kenya. Crude extracts from herbs have long been prescribed by traditional healers for treatment of typhoid, cholera, and shigellosis. However, the effectiveness of extracts obtained using different extraction solvents such as methanol, acetone, and hexane have not fully been evaluated. This study aimed at evaluating the effect of solvents (Ethanol, hexane, and methanol) on the yield of crude extract from plants (Erythrinna abyssinica, Aspilia pluriseta, Vangueria infausta, Ficus sycomorus, and Carissa edulis), assessing the effect of the solvents on extracted active metabolites, and determining the effect of these solvents on extract’s bioactivity against Vibrio cholerae, Shigella flexneri, and Salmonella typhimuriumi and, Escherichia coli that served as a model organism for screening plant extracts against Gram-negative bacteria. Crude extracts were obtained by soaking dried ground plant parts in individual solvents, which were then concentrated by a rotary evaporator. The phytochemical screening to detect plant metabolites was done qualitatively. Bioassays to analyze the efficacy of the plant crude extracts against the microbes were carried out in 4×3×3×5 factorial experiment laid out in a completely randomized design. The determination of bioactivity of herbal extracts was carried out using minimal inhibition concentration and minimum bactericidal concentration methods. Data obtained on the bioactivity assay (Count of the bacteria colony forming units) was analyzed using the Kruskal-Wallis test at α = 0.05, and medians were compared by the Wilcoxon rank sum test in Scientific Analysis System version 9.4. Methanol solvent produced higher quantities of crude extracts for all the herbal samples used with, Vangueria infausta producing the highest extract (5.06g). Most phytochemicals were present in Methanolic extracts compared to hexane and acetone extracts. There was a significant (p < 0.05) difference in the bioactivity of different herbal plants against bacterial pathogens at different concentrations of crude extract. The efficacy of plant extract increased progressively from 100ppm to 1000ppm concentration.  Methanol is recommended for use in the extraction of medicinal plant extracts as it leads to improved potency as compared to hexane and acetone.
Vibration Influence on Structural Perspectives According to Pedestrian Traffic Type of Pedestrian Bridge
Authors: Park Sun-Joon , Cho Sunhi , Kang Dae-Hung , Park Pilyoung , Yoo Hyun-Sang
Published: April 2023

The vibration acceleration response and excellent frequency generated by pedestrian’s walking type of the steel composite wooden bridge were measured and analyzed. Based on the modified Reiher-Meister vibration curve, vibration influence evaluation on the structural perspectives of the pedestrian bridge was performed. The pedestrian’s walking types were divided into walking, running, rolling, and shaking, and eight experimental cases were set up by combining them with the number of users and moving direction. A total of 37 measurements were made. To evaluate the vibration serviceability of pedestrian bridges, the pedestrian’s walking type must be considered, and a standardized study on the pedestrian’s walking type will be necessary in the future.
Vibration Influence on the Pedestrians’ Perspectives According to Pedestrian Traffic Type of Pedestrian Bridge
Authors: Park Sun-Joon , Cho Sunhi , Kang Dae-Hung , Na Hae-Yup , Cho Tae-sik , Jang In-Ho
Published: April 2023

The existing vibration serviceability evaluation of bridges focused on the structure. To evaluate vibration serviceability from a user perspective, vibration level felt by pedestrians was surveyed in a steel composite wooden bridge and analyzed to present the vibration serviceability evaluation method felt by the pedestrian. Such vibration was classified according to the walking type using the modified Reiher-Meister vibration curve, the existing evaluation method, and rolling up and down and rolling left and right in place were the most overestimated. As vibration is influenced by individuals, additional research is needed.
Validation Experiment on Internal Barrier Wall Made of Polypropylene Compound in Levee
Authors: Lee Chanjoo , An Seonggi , Kang Woo-Chul , Lim Jae-Eun
Published: April 2023

In Korea, levees are the fundamental countermeasure for floods caused by torrential rain in summer. In levee construction, loam is recommended instead of bed sediments because of problems like soil piping. A levee constructed with bed sediment requires the installation of a water barrier or an impervious core whereas the difficulty in procuring and transporting loam to the construction site creates an economic issue. Therefore, the purpose of this study was to verify the effectiveness of installing a barrier wall made of a polypropylene compound inside a levee. The wall helps increase the stability of the levee using bed sediments and can make levee construction economically feasible. When the water barrier was installed, a relatively slow increase in the water level was observed, and the behavior of the infiltrating line was also suppressed. In addition, there was no degradation or destruction till the end of the experiment. From these results, it is expected that the installation of the composite polypropylene water barrier will improve the stability of the embankment without the need to add quality soil.
Dynamic Effect Evaluation Method for Calculating Durability Performance of Railway Noise Barrier
Authors: Choi Sooyeon , Kim Minsu , Choi Sanghyun
Published: April 2023

The extension of the railway noise barrier, the construction of which began in the mid-1980s, has currently reached a total of 800 km. As the aging rate is expected to increase rapidly, maintenance through reasonable performance evaluation is required. In this study, a technique for evaluating the durability of railway noise barriers is proposed, considering the dynamic effect of train wind, which is generated when trains pass through noise barriers. The proposed method is based on the equivalent static load for the dynamic effect acting on the noise barrier, as presented in EN 16727-2-2, which considers the train speed, number of passages, length, height, natural frequency of the noise barrier, and distance from the center of the track in reviewing the dynamic effect; moreover, it calculates the durability performance using a performance rating matrix based on the number of trains passing per day and dynamic effects. It is expected that the proposed technique can be used to evaluate the performance of railway noise barriers according to the Railway Construction Act.
Extracorporeal Cardiopulmonary Resuscitation for Cardiac Arrest
Authors: Granfeldt Asger , Holmberg Mathias J. , Andersen Lars W.
Published: April 2023

This JAMA Insights Clinical Update discusses the newer treatment option of extracorporeal cardiopulmonary resuscitation, particularly for patients with cardiac arrest who are not responsive to initial treatment.
Trends in Payer Type for Emergency Department Visits in California, 2011-2019
Authors: Hsia Renee Y. , Feldmeier Madeline , Sarkar Nandita
Published: April 2023

This cohort study investigates trends in the association between emergency department use and insurance coverage in California between 2011 and 2019.
Effectiveness and Safety of Dapagliflozin for Black and White Patients With Chronic Kidney Disease in North and South America
Authors: Vart Priya , Jongs Niels , Wheeler David C. , Heerspink Hiddo J. L. , Langkilde Anna Maria , Chertow Glenn M.
Published: April 2023

This secondary analysis of a randomized clinical trial investigates the relative effectiveness and safety of the sodium-glucose cotransporter-2 inhibitor dapagliflozin for Black and White patients with chronic kidney disease (CKD) in North and South America.
Characteristics of Esketamine Prescribers Among Medicare Beneficiaries in the United States, 2019-2020
Authors: Havlik John L. , Murphy Michael J. , Gong Nina , Tang Deanna , Krystal John H.
Published: April 2023

This cross-sectional study examines the characteristics and geographic distribution of eskatamine prescribers among Medicare beneficiaries in the US from 2019 to 2020.
Comparison Between ChatGPT and Google Search as Sources of Postoperative Patient Instructions
Authors: Ayoub Noel F. , Lee Yu-Jin , Grimm David , Balakrishnan Karthik
Published: April 2023

This qualitative study rates the level of understandability, actionability, and procedure-specific content in postoperative instructions generated from ChatGPT, Google Search, and Stanford University.
Fawn birthdays: From opportunistically sampled fawn rescue data to true wildlife demographic parameters
Authors: Kauffert Johanna , Baur Sophie , Matiu Michael , König Andreas , Peters Wibke , Menzel Annette
Published: April 2023

Spring mowing in May and June is one of the main causes of mortality of roe deer fawns in agricultural regions. Knowing the exact birth distribution of fawns is important to guide farmers in their pre‐mowing precautions to avoid fawn deaths.

Wildlife volunteers searching fields prior to mowing can act as citizen scientists by producing data sets of rescued fawns and their approximate age at find. However, due to weather‐dependent searches, the corresponding birth distributions can be highly skewed. We simulated virtual field data to examine the shortcomings of such data sources and introduced two algorithms for reconstructing reliable birth distribution parameters (mean and standard deviation) based on skewed samples.

We found that weather‐dependent search data biased the calculated means and standard deviations by up to 14 and 5 days, respectively. However, the use of the proposed advanced algorithms (Grid Search and Machine Learning) resulted in better estimates of the sample means and standard deviations by reducing the root‐mean‐square error by 65% and 80% respectively. Furthermore, the Grid Search algorithm was able to capture birth distribution parameters based on real citizen science data in Bavaria, Germany, from 2021, which are close to the results of more systematic samples of the same year.

The simulation exercise highlighted the shortcomings and discrepancies of using non‐probabilistic samples, for example on the occasion of mowing activities, to study demographic parameters compared to the true simulated distribution. Yet, the proposed algorithms can address these drawbacks and potentially turn citizen science data into an important data source for wildlife studies. This could ultimately help reduce wildlife losses during the mowing season by better knowing the distribution of births in a region.
Rational Design of Bioactive Hydrogels toward Periodontal Delivery: From Pathophysiology to Therapeutic Applications
Authors: Yin Yuanyuan , Yang Sihan , Ai Dongqing , Qin Han , Sun Yu , Xia Xuyun , Xu Xiaohui , Ji Wei , Song Jinlin
Published: April 2023

Periodontitis is a biofilm‐induced, host‐mediated inflammatory disease that results in periodontal tissue destruction. The design of functional biomaterials based on disease pathophysiology is essential for enhancing their therapeutic effects in periodontitis treatment. As promising localized drug delivery systems and tissue engineering scaffolds, hydrogels have gained significant interest for controlled and sustained release of bioactive agents in periodontal applications. The rational design of bioactive hydrogels can facilitate bacterial control and modulate destructive host inflammation, thereby preventing the progression of periodontitis. In this review, the pathophysiological mechanisms underlying periodontitis as fundamental principles for the design of functional hydrogel systems are first introduced. In the following part, an overview is systematically provided of the types and functions of the bioactive hydrogel systems loaded with anti‐bacterial and anti‐inflammatory agents for periodontal delivery. Finally, the remaining challenges and future perspectives of hydrogel delivery systems for periodontal applications are proposed. It is believed that this review will inspire the rational design and development of innovative functional hydrogel biomaterials toward periodontal therapy.
Unraveling the Synergistic Mechanism of Bi‐Functional Nickel–Iron Phosphides Catalysts for Overall Water Splitting
Authors: Jiang Min , Zhai Huanhuan , Chen Libao , Mei Lin , Tan Pengfei , Yang Ke , Pan Jun
Published: April 2023

Ni–Fe bimetallic electrocatalysts are expected to replace existing precious metal catalysts for water splitting and achieve industrial applications due to their high intrinsic activity and low cost. However, the mechanism by which Ni and Fe species synergistically enhance catalytic activity remains obscure, which still needs further in‐depth study. In this study, a highly active bi‐functional electrocatalyst of Ni2P/FeP heterostructures is constructed on Fe foam (Ni2P/FeP‐FF), clearly illustrating the effect of Ni on Fe species for oxygen evolution reaction (OER) and revealing the true catalytic active phase for hydrogen evolution reaction (HER). The Ni2P/FeP‐FF only needs overpotentials of 217 and 42 mV to reach 10 mA cm−2 for OER and HER, respectively, exhibiting superior bi‐functional activity for overall water splitting. The Ni can elevate the strength of FeO on Ni2P/FeP‐FF surface and promote the formation of high‐valence FeOOH phase during OER, thus enhancing OER performance. Based on first‐principles calculations and Raman characterizations, the Ni2P/Ni(OH)2 heterojunction evolved from Ni2P/FeP is identified as the real high active phase for HER. This study not only builds a near‐commercial bifunctional electrocatalyst for overall water splitting, but also provides a deep insight for synergistic catalytic mechanism of Ni and Fe species.
Carbonization‐Temperature‐Dependent Electrical Properties of Carbon Nanofibers—From Nanoscale to Macroscale
Authors: Borowec Julian , Selmert Victor , Kretzschmar Ansgar , Fries Kai , Schierholz Roland , Kungl Hans , Eichel Rüdiger‐A. , Tempel Hermann , Hausen Florian
Published: April 2023

An exact understanding of the conductivity of individual fibers and their networks is crucial to tailor the overall macroscopic properties of polyacrylonitrile (PAN)‐based carbon nanofibers (CNFs). Therefore, microelectrical properties of CNF networks and nanoelectrical properties of individual CNFs, carbonized at temperatures from 600 to 1000 °C, are studied by means of conductive atomic force microscopy (C‐AFM). At the microscale, the CNF networks show good electrical interconnections enabling a homogeneously distributed current flow. The network's homogeneity is underlined by the strong correlation of macroscopic conductivities, determined by the four‐point‐method, and microscopic results. Both, microscopic and macroscopic electrical properties, solely depend on the carbonization temperature and the exact resulting fiber structure. Strikingly, nanoscale high‐resolution current maps of individual CNFs reveal a large highly resistive surface fraction, representing a clear limitation. Highly resistive surface domains are either attributed to disordered highly resistive carbon structures at the surface or the absence of electron percolation paths in the bulk volume. With increased carbonization temperature, the conductive surface domains grow in size resulting in a higher conductivity. This work contributes to existing microstructural models of CNFs by extending them by electrical properties, especially electron percolation paths.
Efficient Solar Spectrum‐Like White‐Light Emission in Zinc‐Based Zero‐Dimensional Hybrid Metal Halides
Authors: He Shihui , Hao Shiqiang , Fan Liubing , Liu Kunjie , Cai Chuxin , Wolverton Christopher , Zhao Jing , Liu Quanlin
Published: April 2023

Organic–inorganic metal halides (OIMHs) with high‐efficiency solar spectrum‐like emission are attracting broad and current interest. Here, five 0D Zn‐based hybrid halides are synthesized based on aromatic organic cations with different carbon‐chain lengths: C6H5CH2NH3+ (PMA+) and C6H5(CH2)4NH3+ (PBA+). (PMA)2ZnCl4 exhibits the highest photoluminescence quantum yield of 37.2% of reported Zn‐based white‐emission OIMHs. The emission spectrum of (PBA)2ZnI4 indicates a color rendering index of 98, which is the highest among single‐component white‐light‐emitting phosphors. Spectral characterizations and density functional theory calculations demonstrate that the extremely broad emission of (PBA)2ZnI4 originates from the synergistic emission of organic cations and self‐trapped excitons. The optical properties of the obtained (PMA)2ZnBr4, (PMA)2ZnI4·H2O, and (PBA)2ZnCl4 are also characterized for comparison, and with the same organic cations, the PLQY decreases from chloride to bromide to iodide. This work demonstrates that the selection of appropriate organics and halogens can enable fine tuning of single‐component white‐light emission, satisfying varying needs for solid‐state lighting.
Solutions to the Challenges of Lithium–Sulfur Batteries by Carbon Nanotubes
Authors: Yu LePing , Xu Lyu , Shearer Cameron , Zhou XiaoHong , Lu Lu
Published: April 2023

The continuously increasing demands for energy storage devices for portable electronics and electric vehicles have aroused massive research interest in developing lithium–sulfur batteries (LSBs) with high energy density and long‐term stability. Carbon nanotubes (CNTs), possessing numerous superior properties, are integrated into various components of LSBs for performance improvement. Nevertheless, a systematic and insightful issue‐based study of their inherent roles in addressing the practical challenges of LSBs is lacking. There is a growing consensus that CNTs do not directly contribute to the specific capacity (i.e., being involved in the redox reactions with electron loss/gain), while their auxiliary roles, such as providing a conductive and mechanically reinforced framework for active materials, are of prime significance in regulating the electrochemical reaction, charge transport, and mass transfer in the system. In this paper, after briefly introducing the working principles of LSBs and the promising applicability of CNTs, current challenges in various components of LSBs are discussed with the corresponding CNT‐based solutions, followed by an evaluation of the potential for commercializing CNT‐involved LSBs. Finally, some future research directions are provided to improve the device performance further.
Elevated PDGF‐BB from Bone Impairs Hippocampal Vasculature by Inducing PDGFRβ Shedding from Pericytes
Authors: Liu Guanqiao , Wang Jiekang , Wei Zhiliang , Fang Ching‐Lien , Shen Ke , Qian Cheng , Qi Cheng , Li Tong , Gao Peisong , Wong Philip C. , Lu Hanzhang , Cao Xu , Wan Mei
Published: April 2023

Evidence suggests a unique association between bone aging and neurodegenerative/cerebrovascular disorders. However, the mechanisms underlying bone‐brain interplay remain elusive. Here platelet‐derived growth factor‐BB (PDGF‐BB) produced by preosteoclasts in bone is reported to promote age‐associated hippocampal vascular impairment. Aberrantly elevated circulating PDGF‐BB in aged mice and high‐fat diet (HFD)‐challenged mice correlates with capillary reduction, pericyte loss, and increased blood‐brain barrier (BBB) permeability in their hippocampus. Preosteoclast‐specific Pdgfb transgenic mice with markedly high plasma PDGF‐BB concentration faithfully recapitulate the age‐associated hippocampal BBB impairment and cognitive decline. Conversely, preosteoclast‐specific Pdgfb knockout mice have attenuated hippocampal BBB impairment in aged mice or HFD‐challenged mice. Persistent exposure of brain pericytes to high concentrations of PDGF‐BB upregulates matrix metalloproteinase 14 (MMP14), which promotes ectodomain shedding of PDGF receptor β (PDGFRβ) from pericyte surface. MMP inhibitor treatment alleviates hippocampal pericyte loss and capillary reduction in the conditional Pdgfb transgenic mice and antagonizes BBB leakage in aged mice. The findings establish the role of bone‐derived PDGF‐BB in mediating hippocampal BBB disruption and identify the ligand‐induced PDGFRβ shedding as a feedback mechanism for age‐associated PDGFRβ downregulation and the consequent pericyte loss.
Novel Composite Separators Based on Heterometallic Metal‐Organic Frameworks Improve the Performance of Lithium‐Ion Batteries
Authors: Yu Wen , Shen Li , Lu Xing , Han Jianming , Geng Nankun , Lai Chunyan , Xu Qunjie , Peng Yiting , Min YuLin , Lu Yunfeng
Published: April 2023

The separator is an essential component of lithium‐ion batteries as it affects ion transport and safety performance. Herein, a novel class of separators fabricated from poly(vinyl alcohol) and heterometallic metal‐organic frameworks, which affords a higher density of open bimetal sites, stronger complexation with anions, more porous structure, and enhanced thermal stability and electrolyte wettability is reported. The adoption of such separators substantially increases lithium‐ion conductivity and lithium‐ion transference number, leading to batteries with prolonged lifespan, improved low‐temperature performance, and enhanced rate performance.
Manipulating the Polytellurides of Metallic Telluride for Ultra‐Stable Potassium‐Ion Storage: A Case Study of Carbon‐Confined CoTe2 Nanofibers
Authors: Li Qinghua , Peng Jian , Zhang Wei , Wang Lixiang , Liang Zhixin , Wang Gaoyu , Wu Jiawei , Fan Wenbo , Li Haixia , Wang Jiazhao , Huang Shaoming
Published: April 2023

Transition metal tellurides (TMTes) are promising anode materials for high energy density potassium‐ion batteries (PIBs) due to their high electronic conductivity and high theoretical volumetric capacity. Most reported TMTes electrodes have limited lifespans, however, in this work, for the first time, it is revealed that the dissolution and shuttling effect of polytellurides (K5Te3 and K2Te) are the key reasons for the rapid deterioration of cycling stability in TMTe‐based conversion‐ and alloy‐type anodes. In light of this, a dual‐type N‐doped carbon‐confined CoTe2 composite material (CoTe2@NPCNFs@NC, where NPCNFs stands for N‐doped porous carbon nanofibers and NC represents N‐doped porous carbon) is proposed to suppress the dissolution and shuttle effect of polytellurides, which boosts the cycling stability up to 1000 cycles at 2 A g−1. Furthermore, various in situ and ex situ techniques and theoretical calculations are employed to systematically clarify the formation and transformation of polytellurides and to reveal the good physical confinement of the dual‐type carbon and the strong chemisorption of pyridinic‐N and pyrrolic‐N on K5Te3 and K2Te. This work highlights the important role of manipulating polytelluride in the design of long‐lifespan TMTe anodes for advanced PIBs.
Effects of Electrolyte Ionic Species on Electrocatalytic Reactions: Advances, Challenges, and Perspectives
Authors: Lu Xinxin , Tu Wenguang , Zhou Yong , Zou Zhigang
Published: April 2023

Electrolytes have a profound impact on the chemical environment of electrocatalysis, influencing the reaction rate and selectivity of products. Experimental and theoretical studies have extensively investigated the interaction mechanisms between electrolyte ions (i.e., alkali metal cations, carbonate anions) and reactants or the catalyst surface in electrocatalytic reactions such as the hydrogen evolution reaction, oxygen evolution reaction, oxygen reduction reaction, water oxidation reaction, and CO2 reduction reaction. Past studies have demonstrated a noticeable dependence of electrochemical reaction activity and selectivity on the identity of electrolyte ions. However, few overviews have comprehensively and specifically discussed the effects of electrolyte cations and anions on common electrochemical reactions. In order to clarify and give more insights on this research area, this review aims to summarize and highlight recent progress in understanding the effects of various electrolyte ionic species and their influence mechanisms in diverse electrocatalytic reactions for water splitting, H2O2 production, and CO2 reduction. The challenges and perspectives on the effect of electrolyte ions in electrocatalysis are also presented.
Active SnO2 Crystal Planes Enable Efficient and Ultra‐Bendable n‐i‐p Perovskite Solar Cells with Record Certificated Power Conversion Efficiency
Authors: Yang Yingguo , Yang Lifeng , Feng Shanglei , Niu Yingchun , Li Xiaoxi , Cheng Liwei , Li Lina , Qin Wenming , Wang Tingting , Xu Quan , Dong Hua , Lu Haizhou , Qin Tianshi , Huang Wei
Published: April 2023

The tin (IV) oxide (SnO2) electron transport layer (ETL) has been widely employed to fabricate high‐performance perovskite solar cells (PSCs). It has been reported that carbon quantum dots (CQDs) can be used to enhance electron mobility of SnO2. However, an in‐depth understanding of the driving force in this process is still lacking. Here, a high‐angle annular dark‐field scanning transmission electron microscope (HAADF‐STEM) is employed, for the first time, to reveal the SnO2 crystal face changes with one new type of CQD doping. Synchrotron‐based grazing incidence wide‐angle X‐ray scattering (GIWAXS) can penetrate the flexible substrate to detect the buried region of the perovskite layer, showing the crystallinity and phase purity of the perovskite are significantly improved with CQD‐modified SnO2. The flexible n‐i‐p PSCs delivers a power conversion efficiency (PCE) up to 23.57% (22.75%, certificated), which is one of the highest values for single‐junction n‐i‐p flexible PSCs. The corresponding n‐i‐p flexible modules achieve a PCE of 17.79% with aperture area ~ 24 cm2. Furthermore, the flexible PSCs show excellent stability, preserving ≈95% of their initial efficiency after 1200 h under 40% relative humidity and 1‐sun light irradiation at 25 °C, and maintained > 90% of initial efficiency after 2500 bending cycles at a bending radius of 6 mm.
Chinese expert consensus on prevention and intervention for elderly with sarcopenia (2023)
Authors: Cui Hua , Wang Zhaohui , Wu Jianqing , Liu Ying , Zheng Jin , Xiao Wenkai , He Ping , Zhou Yun , Wang Jianye , Yu Pulin , Zhang Cuntai , Wu Jinhui ,   Geriatrics Branch of the Chinese Medical Association
Published: April 2023

Sarcopenia is the age‐related loss of skeletal muscle mass and muscle strength or physical function. It is most common in elderly individuals. Due to its high incidence, insidious onset, and extensive impact on the body, it has a huge impact on the family medical burden and the social public health expenditure in China. The understanding of sarcopenia in China is still lacking, and the recommendations for prevention, control, and intervention are not clear and unified. The purpose of this consensus report is to standardize the prevention, control, and intervention methods for sarcopenia in elderly patients in China; improve the efficacy of intervention; reduce complications during the intervention process; and reduce the risk of falls, fractures, disability, hospitalization, and even death in elderly individuals.
An efficient method for spatiotemporally resolved aerosol flow modeling: Discrete migration and GPU acceleration
Authors: Shang Cheng , Su Zhijing , He Song , Xu Zuwei , Kruis Frank Einar , Zhao Haibo
Published: April 2023

Describing spatiotemporal evolution and characteristics of dispersed systems using the population balance equation (PBE), examples including sectional and moment methods are fraught with numerous issues. Hence, this study develops an accurate method by combining computational fluid dynamics and population balance‐Monte Carlo method (CFD‐PBMC) with a moderate computational cost. An efficient sub‐model for particle migration was proposed to simulate the convection and diffusion processes of particulate flows. A graphics processing unit (GPU)‐based parallel computation was performed to accelerate the high‐dimensional CFD‐PBMC. Several classical cases with analytical or benchmark solutions were simulated, and a comprehensive comparison was made using the classical weighted random walk method. Good agreements were obtained, except in the case of radial migration, the reasons for which are explained in detail. The measured speedups on the GPU showed a factor of ~450 for pure migration and ~50 for the CFD‐PBMC method when compared with a standard high‐performance computer.
Artificial Intelligence–Enabled Gesture‐Language‐Recognition Feedback System Using Strain‐Sensor‐Arrays‐Based Smart Glove
Authors: Lu Wen-xiao , Fang Ping , Zhu Ming-lu , Zhu Yi-run , Fan Xin-jian , Zhu Tian-chen , Zhou Xuan , Wang Feng-xia , Chen Tao , Sun Li-ning
Published: April 2023

Wearable smart glove of gesture language provides a novel strategy for the hearing‐impaired people to commutate with the world. Current commercialized solutions of gesture language are limited by the full extent of human interaction beyond operation dexterity, sensory feedback, and the huge cost of fabrication. Herein, a low‐cost, high‐efficient gesture‐language‐recognition feedback system combined with the strain‐sensor arrays and machine‐learning technology is proposed. The strain‐sensor arrays integrated with 3D‐printed glove can extract both spatial and temporal information about the finger's movement. The smart glove achieves gesture‐language recognition using machine learning with an accuracy of over 99%. Integrating with multidimensional manipulation, visual feedback and artificial intelligence (AI)‐based gesture‐language recognition, the smart system can accurately recognize complex gestures and provide real‐time feedback to users. The smart glove system can not only provide an efficient way for hearing‐impaired persons to communicate with the outside world, but also benefit industries in multiple fields such as entertainment, home healthcare, sports training, and the medical industry.
Concurrent Actuation and Sensing in Fluid by Cilia‐Like Transducers
Authors: Wang Wenkang , Song Shanyuan , Hu Wenqi
Published: April 2023

Motile cilia are miniature, hair‐like organelles whose beating moves fluid in various organisms and the human body. Motile cilia are also able to sense many mechanical or fluidic cues. Inspired by the motile cilia in nature, a type of artificial cilia that can both actuate and sense is investigated. These artificial cilia can operate their sensing and actuation individually to sense the flow speed and collaboratively transport objects. More importantly, they can also sense the viscosity of the fluid and the distance from the wall by beating and feeling their own motion. In the latter function, two different sensing modes (modes 1 and 2) are proposed for low and high Reynolds numbers. They are investigated through both computational fluid dynamics and experiments. It is found that mode 1 can sense a wall distance up to 3 times the body length of the cilium, while mode 2 can sense up to 2 times. Such sensing of distance can be further converted into the ability to compute the morphology of the boundary inside the fluid. This work can be useful for small‐scale soft robots that work inside fluid and other flow control applications.
De novo RANBP2 variant in a fetal demise case with cerebral intraparenchymal hemorrhage
Authors: Meroni Anna , Kalantari Silvia , Arossa Alessia , Spinillo Arsenio , Melito Chiara , Scatigno Annachiara Licia , Cesari Stefania , Giorgio Elisa , Furione Milena , Homfray Tessa , Sirchia Fabio
Published: April 2023

Fetal intracranial hemorrhage (ICH) may result from a wide array of causes, either associated with maternal or fetal risk factors. In the last decade, monogenic causes of susceptibility to fetal ICH have been described, in particular in association with COL4A1 and COL4A2 genes. A peculiar form of ICH is acute necrotizing encephalitis (ANE), which is characterized by a rapid‐onset severe encephalopathy following an abnormal inflammatory response to an otherwise banal infection. It usually affects healthy children and it is thought to be multifactorial, with a genetic predisposition. RANBP2 gene has been extensively associated with ANE susceptibility. We hereby present a unique case of a 42‐year‐old secundigravida with intrauterine fetal demise at 35 weeks of gestation. Trio‐based whole‐exome sequencing performed on both parents and fetal DNA showed a de novo likely pathogenic variant in the RANBP2 gene on 2q13. At the fetal autopsy, subtentorial hematoma and cerebral intraparenchymal hemorrhage were present. We speculate that this might be a new phenotypic presentation of RANBP2‐associated disease. However, more similar fetal cases need to be reported in order to reinforce this hypothesis.
Social connections and risk of incident mild cognitive impairment, dementia, and mortality in 13 longitudinal cohort studies of ageing
Authors: Mahalingam Gowsaly , Samtani Suraj , Lam Ben Chun Pan , Lipnicki Darren M , Lima‐Costa Maria Fernanda , Blay Sergio Luis , Castro‐Costa Erico , Shifu Xiao , Guerchet Maëlenn , Preux Pierre‐Marie , Gbessemehlan Antoine , Skoog Ingmar , Najar Jenna , Sterner Therese Rydberg , Scarmeas Nikolaos , Yannakoulia Mary , Dardiotis Themis , Kim Ki‐Woong , Riedel‐Heller Steffi , Röhr Susanne , Pabst Alexander , Shahar Suzana , Numbers Katya , Ganguli Mary , Hughes Tiffany F. , Chang Chung‐Chou H. , Crowe Michael , Ng Tze Pin , Gwee Xinyi , Chua Denise Qian Ling , Rymaszewska Joanna , Wolf‐Ostermann Karin , Welmer Anna‐Karin , Stafford Jean , Mélis René , Vernooij‐Dassen Myrra , Jeon Yun‐Hee , Sachdev Perminder S , Brodaty Henry ,   the SHARED consortium for the Cohort Studies of Memory in an International Consortium (COSMIC)
Published: April 2023

Introduction

Previous meta‐analyses have linked social connections and mild cognitive impairment, dementia, and mortality. However, these used aggregate data from North America and Europe and examined a limited number of social connection markers.

Methods

We used individual participant data (N = 39271, Mage = 70.67 (40‐102), 58.86% female, Meducation = 8.43 years, Mfollow‐up = 3.22 years) from 13 longitudinal ageing studies. A two‐stage meta‐analysis of Cox regression models examined the association between social connection markers with our primary outcomes.

Results

We found associations between good social connections structure and quality and lower risk of incident mild cognitive impairment (MCI); between social structure and function and lower risk of incident dementia and mortality. Only in Asian cohorts, being married/in a relationship was associated with reduced risk of dementia, and having a confidante was associated with reduced risk of dementia and mortality.

Discussion

Different aspects of social connections – structure, function, and quality – are associated with benefits for healthy aging internationally.

Highlights

Social connection structure (being married/in a relationship, weekly community group engagement, weekly family/friend interactions) and quality (never lonely) were associated with lower risk of incident MCI.

Social connection structure (monthly/weekly friend/family interactions) and function (having a confidante) were associated with lower risk of incident dementia.

Social connection structure (living with others, yearly/monthly/weekly community group engagement) and function (having a confidante) were associated with lower risk of mortality.

Evidence from 13 longitudinal cohort studies of ageing indicates that social connections are important targets for reducing risk of incident MCI, incident dementia, and mortality.

Only in Asian cohorts, being married/in a relationship was associated with reduced risk of dementia, and having a confidante was associated with reduced risk of dementia and mortality.
CSF alpha‐synuclein aggregates by seed amplification and clinical presentation of AD
Authors: Pilotto Andrea , Bongianni Matilde , Tirloni Clara , Galli Alice , Padovani Alessandro , Zanusso Gianluigi
Published: April 2023

INTRODUCTION

Accumulating evidence suggests that α‐synuclein (αSyn) can modulate Alzheimer's disease (AD) pathology. The aim of this study was to evaluate the prevalence and clinical features associated with cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) αSyn detected by seed amplification assay (SAA) in AD.

METHODS

Eighty AD patients with CSF AT(N) biomarker positivity (mean age 70.3 ± 7.3 years) and 28 non‐AD age‐matched controls were included. All subjects underwent standardized clinical assessment; CSF αSyn aggregates were detected by SAA.

RESULTS

CSF was αSyn‐SAA positive (αSyn+) in 36/80 AD patients (45%) and in 2/28 controls (7.1%). AD αSyn+ and αSyn− patients were comparable for age, disease severity, comorbidity profile, and CSF core biomarkers. AD αSyn+ presented a higher prevalence of atypical phenotypes and symptoms.

CONCLUSIONS

Our findings demonstrate that concomitant CSF αSyn pathology is present in a significant proportion of AD patients starting in the early stages and can affect clinical presentation. Longitudinal studies are warranted to evaluate the significance for the disease course.
Photosynthetic Fixation of CO2 in Alkenes by Heterogeneous Photoredox Catalysis with Visible Light
Authors: Yuan Tao , Wu Ziwei , Zhai Senmao , Wang Rong , Wu Shiwen , Cheng Jiajia , Zheng Meifang , Wang Xinchen
Published: April 2023

Light‐driven fixation of CO2 in organics has emerged as an appealing alternative for the synthesis of value‐added fine chemicals. Challenges remain in the transformation of CO2 as well as product selectivity due to its thermodynamic stability and kinetic inertness. Here we develop a boron carbonitride (BCN) with the abundant terminal B/N defects around the mesoporous walls, which essentially enhances surface active sites as well as charge transfer kinetics, boosting the overall rate of CO2 adsorption and activation. In this protocol, anti‐Markovnikov hydrocarboxylation of alkenes with CO2 to an extended carbon chain is achieved with good functional group tolerance and specific regioselectivity under visible‐light irradiation. The mechanistic studies demonstrate the formation of CO2 radical anion intermediate on defective boron carbonitride, leading to the anti‐Markovnikov carboxylation. Gram‐scale reaction, late‐stage carboxylation of natural products and synthesis of anti‐diabetic GPR40 agonists reveal the utility of this method. This study sheds new insight on the design and application of metal‐free semiconductors for the conversion of CO2 in an atom‐economic and sustainable manner.