bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Combination of Multiple Isotopes and PMF Model Provide Insights Into the Method Optimization of PM2.5 Source Apportionment During Haze Episodes
Authors: Feng Xinxin , Chen Yingjun , Jiang Hongxing , Cai Junjie , Liu Zeyu , Feng Yanli , Li Menglong , Mu Yujing , Chen Jianmin , Chen Tian
Published: November 2024

The key problems with Positive Matrix Factorization (PMF) model for PM2.5 source apportionment were inconsistent results with different species selections and a lack of evaluation criteria for results accuracy. Moreover, high proportions of secondary inorganic aerosols sources (SNA) were identified by PMF without corresponding primary sources. This study develops a new method that combines multi‐isotopes (34S, 15N, 18O and 14C) and PMF model to optimize source apportionment. Data sets A–F, constructed from PM2.5 components, were input into PMF model to obtain optimal results (3–9 factors), which changed with the selection of species. Specifically, the contributions of coal combustion (CC, 3%–36%), biomass burning (BB, 11%–38%), and vehicle sources (VS, 4%–15%) showed significant differences in data sets, indicating that conventional methods cannot obtain accurate results. Then, 15N, 34S, 18O were introduced to restrict and reallocate identified SNA sources to primary sources, overcoming the influence of species on results. Additionally, 14C was used to evaluate data sets results, which showed that the combination of PMF model with more markers (data set F, 9‐factor) and multi‐isotopes techniques obtained optimized results that aligned with 14C results. Compared with the initial results, the contributions of CC, VS, and BB in the allocated 9‐factor increased by 26.4%, 5%, and 19.5%, respectively, becoming main sources of PM2.5. This study represents the first time that combination of PMF model and multi‐isotopes achieves SNA sources reapportionment and results evaluation, improving source apportionment methods.
Accurate and Efficient Numerical Simulation of Land Models Using SUMMA With SUNDIALS
Authors: Spiteri Raymond J. , Van Beusekom Ashley E. , Klenk Kyle , Zolfaghari Reza , Trim Sean J. , Knoben Wouter J. M. , Ireson Andrew M. , Clark Martyn P.
Published: November 2024

Numerical simulation of land models without error control can be highly inaccurate. We present the incorporation of the Suite of Nonlinear and Differential‐Algebraic Equation Solvers (SUNDIALS) package to solve the equations that simulate thermodynamics and hydrologic processes in the Structure for Unifying Multiple Modeling Alternatives (SUMMA) land model. The algorithmic features of SUNDIALS, such as error estimation and adaptive order and step‐size control, result in a SUMMA‐SUNDIALS model that delivers substantially improved accuracy and relative computational efficiency compared to integration with the previous SUMMA model, which uses the low‐order backward Euler method with no rigorous error control. The results are demonstrated through simulations over the North American continent with more than 500,000 spatial elements. Compared to the previous SUMMA model, we find that the simulations produced by the SUMMA‐SUNDIALS model are orders of magnitude closer to converged solutions for the same computational cost. Being able to efficiently perform more reliable simulations makes the SUMMA‐SUNDIALS model a powerful tool for improving our understanding of the terrestrial component of the Earth System.
A Numerical Model to Simulate the Mass Transfer Process of Supersaturated Total Dissolved Gas in Aerated Conditions
Authors: Ou Yangming , Li Ran , Feng Jingjie , Wan Hang , Cai Yanpeng , Yang Zhifeng , Zhu Guoyu , Liu Shengyun , El‐Fatah Abomohra Abd , Huang Juping
Published: November 2024

Hydropower provides continuous and clean energy for human consumption but also brings a series of environmental concerns to local watersheds. Gas bubble disease or mass mortality in fish can be attributed to total dissolved gas (TDG) supersaturation, which occurs when water is released from dams. It is possible to create temporary refuges for fish suffering from supersaturated total dissolved gas (STDG) by strategically arranging aeration facilities along rivers or reservoirs and using the bubbles generated by aeration to increase the dissipation of STDG. The critical limitation to the widespread application of this approach in engineering is the insufficient understanding of the mass transfer mechanisms of STDG under aerated conditions and the transport characteristics of STDG in water flows. In this work, the mass transfer (MT) mechanisms of STDG under aerated conditions were systematically studied via experiments, image processing, and numerical simulation. An innovative three‐dimensional numerical model was established to forecast the MT process of STDG under aerated conditions. The determination of STDG MT in the model incorporated a sophisticated approach that accounted for the dynamic changes in bubble sizes resulting from diverse mechanisms of bubble coalescence and breakup. To validate and calibrate the model, precise aeration experiments were executed at various aeration intensities to gather data on the bubble size distribution, total gas holdup, and STDG dissipation rates. Furthermore, a numerical model was used to quantitatively investigate the impact of the aerator installation depth on STDG dissipation performance. The results revealed that the relationship between the dissipation coefficients of STDG and the aerator installation depth followed a power function. This research can enhance the understanding of the MT characteristics of STDG under aeration conditions while also providing a useful tool for studying the design and optimization of facilities related to STDG engineering treatment via aeration measures.
Cerebral magnetic resonance spectroscopy – insights into preterm brain injury
Authors: Zasada Magdalena , Karcz Paulina , Olszewska Marta , Kowalik Aleksandra , Zasada Wojciech , Herman-Sucharska Izabela , Kwinta Przemko
Published: November 2024

Objective

Magnetic resonance spectroscopy (1H-MRS) may provide clinically relevant data regarding metabolic processes that govern the course of preterm brain injury.

Study design

46 very preterm infants (VP) were evaluated by magnetic resonance imaging and 1H-MRS at term-equivalent age. Brain injury was assessed according to the Kidokoro scale. Moreover, 17 term-born infants with hypoxic-ischemic encephalopathy (HIE) were scanned. The metabolic profile of the central nervous system was obtained from the bilateral thalamus.

Result

The Lipids/Creatine, Choline/Creatine, N-acetyl aspartate/Choline, Lactate/N-acetyl aspartate, and Lactate/Creatine ratios differed between VP infants with moderate+severe brain damage and those without brain injury. Moreover, VP infants with moderate+severe brain damage had higher Lactate/ N-acetyl aspartate and Lactate/Creatine ratios than HIE group.

Conclusion

There were significant differences in the cerebral metabolite profile at TEA between VP infants with and without brain injury. The 1H-MRS profile of VP infants with moderate+severe brain damage may reflect profound chronic metabolic alterations.
Postnatal growth of etiologically characterized preterm newborns according to gestational age at birth
Authors: Roggero Paola , Ryumina Irina , Gunier Robert B. , Winsey Adele , Rauch Stephen A. , Zarco Irma Alejandra Coronado , Ariff Shabina , Rego Maria Albertina S. , Conti Constanza Soto , Ochieng Roseline , Tuzun Funda , Asibey Jacqueline , Giuliani Francesca , Renau Montserrat Izquierdo , Shekharappa Chandrakala Bada , Lapillonne Alexandre , Tavcioska Gabriela , Ismail Leila Cheikh , Menis Camilla , Markelova Marina , Nieto Ricardo , Duah Josephine Agyeman , Deantoni Sonia , Madrid Brenda Frias , Mosca Fabio , Eskenazi Brenda , Lambert Ann , Bhutta Zulfiqar , Papageorghiou Aris , Kennedy Stephen , Villar Jose
Published: November 2024

Objective

To examine the relationship between etiologically-based preterm birth sub-groups and early postnatal growth according to gestational age at birth.

Methods

Prospective, multinational, cohort study involving 15 hospitals that monitored preterm newborns to hospital discharge. Measures/exposures: maternal demographics; etiologically-based preterm birth sub-groups; very, moderate and late preterm categories, and feeding. Primary outcomes: serial anthropometric measures expressed as z-scores of the INTERGROWTH-21st preterm postnatal growth standards.

Results

We included 2320 singletons and 1180 twins: very=24.4% (n = 856, including 178 < 28 weeks’ gestation); moderate=16.9% (n = 592) and late preterm=58.6% (n = 2052). The median (interquartile range) postmenstrual age at the last measure was 37 (36–38) weeks. The ‘no main condition’ sub-group percentage increased from early to late preterm; the ‘perinatal sepsis’ sub-group percentage decreased. ‘Perinatal sepsis’, ‘suspected IUGR’ and ‘fetal distress’ very and late preterm infants had lower postnatal growth patterns than the ‘no main condition’ reference sub-group. This pattern persisted in late but not very preterm infants when postnatal growth was corrected for weight z-score at birth.

Conclusion

The proportional contribution of etiologically-based preterm sub-groups and their postnatal growth trajectories vary by preterm category. Postnatal growth is partially independent of fetal growth in the majority of preterm infants (i.e., those born late preterm).

Impact

Preterm birth, the leading cause of under-5 mortality, is a highly heterogenous syndrome, with surviving infants at risk of suboptimal growth, morbidity, and impaired neurodevelopment.

Both the proportional contribution of etiologically-based sub-groups and their postnatal growth trajectories vary by preterm category (very/moderate/late).

The ‘perinatal sepsis’, ‘suspected IUGR’ and ‘fetal distress’ sub-groups amongst very and late preterm infants had lower postnatal growth than the ‘no main condition’ preterm infants. The pattern persisted after adjusting for birth size only in the late preterms.

Postnatal growth is partially independent of fetal growth in the majority of preterm infants (i.e., those born late preterm).
Cardiomyocyte and stromal cell cross-talk influences the pathogenesis of arrhythmogenic cardiomyopathy: a multi-level analysis uncovers DLK1-NOTCH pathway role in fibro-adipose remodelling
Authors: Maione Angela Serena , Iengo Lara , Sala Luca , Massaiu Ilaria , Chiesa Mattia , Lippi Melania , Ghilardi Stefania , Florindi Chiara , Lodola Francesco , Zaza Antonio , Tondo Claudio , Schiavone Marco , Banfi Cristina , Pompilio Giulio , Poggio Paolo , Sommariva Elena
Published: November 2024

Arrhythmogenic Cardiomyopathy (ACM) is a life-threatening, genetically determined disease primarily caused by mutations in desmosomal genes, such as PKP2. Currently, there is no etiological therapy for ACM due to its complex and not fully elucidated pathogenesis. Various cardiac cell types affected by the genetic mutation, such as cardiomyocytes (CM) and cardiac mesenchymal stromal cells (cMSC), individually contribute to the ACM phenotype, driving functional abnormalities and fibro-fatty substitution, respectively. However, the relative importance of the CM and cMSC alterations, as well as their reciprocal influence in disease progression remain poorly understood. We hypothesised that ACM-dependent phenotypes are driven not only by alterations in individual cell types but also by the reciprocal interactions between CM and cMSC, which may further impact disease pathogenesis. We utilized a patient-specific, multicellular cardiac system composed of either control or PKP2-mutated CM and cMSC to assess the mutation’s role in fibro-fatty phenotype by immunofluorescence, and contractile behaviour of co-cultures using cell motion detection software. Additionally, we investigated reciprocal interactions both in silico and via multi-targeted proteomics. We demonstrated that ACM CM can promote fibro-adipose differentiation of cMSC. Conversely, ACM cMSC contribute to increasing the rate of abnormal contractile events with likely arrhythmic significance. Furthermore, we showed that an ACM-causative mutation alters the CM-cMSC interaction pattern. We identified the CM-sourced DLK1 as a novel regulator of fibro-adipose remodelling in ACM. Our study challenges the paradigm of exclusive cell-specific mechanisms in ACM. A deeper understanding of the cell-cell influence is crucial for identifying novel therapeutic targets for ACM, and this concept is exploitable for other cardiomyopathies.
Variability of functional and biodiversity responses to perturbations is predictable and informative
Authors: Orr James A. , Piggott Jeremy J. , Jackson Andrew L. , Jackson Michelle C. , Arnoldi Jean-François
Published: November 2024

Perturbations such as climate change, invasive species and pollution, impact the functioning and diversity of ecosystems. However diversity has many meanings, and ecosystems provide a plethora of functions. Thus, on top of the various perturbations that global change represents, there are also many ways to measure a perturbation’s ecological impact. This leads to an overwhelming response variability, which undermines hopes of prediction. Here, we show that this variability can instead provide insights into hidden features of functions and of species responses to perturbations. By analysing a dataset of global change experiments in microbial soil systems we first show that the variability of functional and diversity responses to perturbations is not random; functions that are mechanistically similar tend to respond coherently. Furthermore, diversity metrics and broad functions (e.g. total biomass) systematically respond in opposite ways. We then formalise these observations to demonstrate, using geometrical arguments, simulations, and a theory-driven analysis of the empirical data, that the response variability of ecosystems is not only predictable, but can also be used to access useful information about species contributions to functions and population-level responses to perturbations. Our research offers a powerful framework for understanding the complexity of ecological responses to global change.
Weather-responsive adaptive shading through biobased and bioinspired hygromorphic 4D-printing
Authors: Cheng Tiffany , Tahouni Yasaman , Sahin Ekin Sila , Ulrich Kim , Lajewski Silvia , Bonten Christian , Wood Dylan , Rühe Jürgen , Speck Thomas , Menges Achim
Published: November 2024

In response to the global challenge of reducing carbon emissions and energy consumption from regulating indoor climates, we investigate the applicability of biobased cellulosic materials and bioinspired 4D-printing for weather-responsive adaptive shading in building facades. Cellulose is an abundantly available natural material resource that exhibits hygromorphic actuation potential when used in 4D-printing to emulate motile plant structures in bioinspired bilayers. Three key aspects are addressed: (i) examining the motion response of 4D-printed hygromorphic bilayers to both temperature and relative humidity, (ii) verifying the responsiveness of self-shaping shading elements in lab-generated conditions as well as under daily and seasonal weather conditions for over a year, and (iii) deploying the adaptive shading system for testing in a real building facade by upscaling the 4D-printing manufacturing process. This study demonstrates that hygromorphic bilayers can be utilized for weather-responsive facades and that the presented system is architecturally scalable in quantity. Bioinspired 4D-printing and biobased cellulosic materials offer a resource-efficient and energy-autonomous solution for adaptive shading, with potential contributions towards indoor climate regulation and climate change mitigation.
New weapons explosive exhibits persistent toxicity in plants
Authors: Oates Nicola C. , Nay Edward R. , Cary Timothy J. , Rylott Elizabeth L. , Bruce Neil C.
Published: November 2024

Explosives are widespread, toxic and persistent environmental pollutants. 2,4-Dinitroanisole (DNAN) is being phased in to replace 2,4,6-trinitrotoluene (TNT) in munitions. Here we demonstrate that only low levels of DNAN are detoxified in Arabidopsis, leaving it to remain as a substrate for monodehydroascorbate reductase 6 mediated chronic phytotoxicity. Enhancing the potential for environmental toxicity, DNAN is readily transported to the aerial tissues exposing this toxin to herbivores and the wider food chain.
Efficient formation of a massive quiescent galaxy at redshift 4.9
Authors: de Graaff Anna , Setton David J. , Brammer Gabriel , Cutler Sam , Suess Katherine A. , Labbé Ivo , Leja Joel , Weibel Andrea , Maseda Michael V. , Whitaker Katherine E. , Bezanson Rachel , Boogaard Leindert A. , Cleri Nikko J. , De Lucia Gabriella , Franx Marijn , Greene Jenny E. , Hirschmann Michaela , Matthee Jorryt , McConachie Ian , Naidu Rohan P. , Oesch Pascal A. , Price Sedona H. , Rix Hans-Walter , Valentino Francesco , Wang Bingjie , Williams Christina C.
Published: November 2024

Within the established framework of structure formation, galaxies start as systems of low stellar mass and gradually grow into far more massive galaxies. The existence of massive galaxies in the first billion years of the Universe, as suggested by recent observations, seems to challenge this model, as such galaxies would require highly efficient conversion of baryons into stars. An even greater challenge in this epoch is the existence of massive galaxies that have already ceased forming stars. However, robust detections of early massive quiescent galaxies have been challenging due to the coarse wavelength sampling of photometric surveys. Here we report the spectroscopic confirmation with the James Webb Space Telescope of the quiescent galaxy RUBIES-EGS-QG-1 at redshift z = 4.90, 1.2 billion years after the Big Bang. Deep stellar absorption features in the spectrum reveal that the stellar mass of the galaxy of 1011 M
⊙ formed in a short 200 Myr burst of star formation, after which star formation activity dropped rapidly and persistently. According to current galaxy formation models, systems with such rapid stellar mass growth and early quenching are too rare to plausibly occur in the small area probed spectroscopically with JWST. Instead, the discovery of RUBIES-EGS-QG-1 implies that early massive quiescent galaxies can be quenched earlier or exhaust gas available for star formation more efficiently than assumed at present.
Individual variability of neural computations underlying flexible decisions
Authors: Pagan Marino , Tang Vincent D. , Aoi Mikio C. , Pillow Jonathan W. , Mante Valerio , Sussillo David , Brody Carlos D.
Published: November 2024

The ability to flexibly switch our responses to external stimuli according to contextual information is critical for successful interactions with a complex world. Context-dependent computations are necessary across many domains1–3, yet their neural implementations remain poorly understood. Here we developed a novel behavioural task in rats to study context-dependent selection and accumulation of evidence for decision-making4–6. Under assumptions supported by both monkey and rat data, we first show mathematically that this computation can be supported by three dynamical solutions and that all networks performing the task implement a combination of these solutions. These solutions can be identified and tested directly with experimental data. We further show that existing electrophysiological and modelling data are compatible with the full variety of possible combinations of these solutions, suggesting that different individuals could use different combinations. To study variability across individual subjects, we developed automated, high-throughput methods to train rats on our task and trained many subjects using these methods. Consistent with theoretical predictions, neural and behavioural analyses revealed substantial heterogeneity across rats, despite uniformly good task performance. Our theory further predicts a specific link between behavioural and neural signatures, which was robustly supported in the data. In summary, our results provide an experimentally supported theoretical framework to analyse individual variability in biological and artificial systems that perform flexible decision-making tasks, open the door to cellular-resolution studies of individual variability in higher cognition, and provide insights into neural mechanisms of context-dependent computation more generally.
Comparison of different noninvasive scores for assessing hepatic fibrosis in a cohort of chronic hepatitis C patients
Authors: El-Kassas Mohamed , Elakel Wafaa , Elsharkawy Aisha , Asem Noha , Abu-Elfatth Ahmed , Mostafa Aya , Abdelazeem Amr , El-Serafy Magdy , Ibrahem Mohamed , Ghanem Eman Alsayed , Abdeen Nermeen , Doss Wahid , Esmat Gamal , Abdeltawab Doaa
Published: November 2024

The continuous search for simple, noninvasive methods for assessing liver fibrosis remains very important to help risk-stratify and follow-up patients with chronic hepatitis C virus (HCV). This study aimed to evaluate the diagnostic performance and accuracy of six serological noninvasive scores for the assessment of liver fibrosis in comparison to liver histopathology. This retrospective cohort study included data from 19501 patients with chronic HCV infection who had liver biopsies as an HCV treatment prerequisite within the Egyptian national HCV treatment program. Six noninvasive scores (FIB-4, APRI, King’s score, Fibro-Q, fibrosis index, Fibro-α score) were evaluated and compared to liver histopathology data in assessing different stages of liver fibrosis. The diagnostic performance for each score was assessed using the area under the receiver-operating characteristic curve (AUROC). All six noninvasive scores were statistically significant for predicting different stages of liver fibrosis. Four scores (FIB-4, King’s score, APRI, and Fibro Q) had a better diagnostic performance for predicting different fibrosis stages. FIB-4, followed by the King’s score, performs better in identifying patients with advanced fibrosis at cutoffs of 2.01 and 16.7, respectively, with AUROC of 0.71 for both, and in predicting cirrhosis at cutoffs of 2.21 and 17.4, respectively with AUROC 0.82 for both. Using noninvasive scores for fibrosis assessment is very important, especially in limited resource settings, to rapidly stratify patients who need more specialized care.
Designing Cu–CoO heterostructure nanosheets for efficient electrooxidation of 5-hydroxymethylfurfural to 2,5-furandicarboxylic acid
Authors: Ji Dongfang , Wang Wenke , Sang Ting , Hao Jingcheng , Zhang Xiaoyu , Li Zhonghao
Published: November 2024

We report the design of Cu–CoO heterostructure nanosheets as a highly efficient electrocatalyst for electrochemical conversion of HMF to FDCA.
Polythiophene side chain chemistry and its impact on advanced composite anodes for lithium-ion batteries
Authors: Li Han , Ren Haoze , Sun Zeyuan , Qin Siyu , Campos Armando Rodriguez , Takeuchi Esther S. , Marschilok Amy C. , Takeuchi Kenneth J. , Reichmanis Elsa
Published: November 2024

Tailored side chains can improve structural stability, ion transport and capacity retention, offering a solution to key challenges such as capacity fade and electrode degradation in lithium-ion batteries.
Low contact resistance in carbon nanotube devices: metal-induced gap states
Authors: Zhang Bo , Liu Xiaojie , Wang Huan , Feng Lifeng , Yin Haitao
Published: November 2024

A directly connected structure of carbon nanotubes and graphene exhibits ohmic contact and has a lower contact resistance than a van der Waals-connected one. This structure's metal-induced gap state offers an extra transport channel.
Negative contribution from defects responsible for low Young's modulus of graphene oxide at small defect densities
Authors: Mondal Sownyak , Ghosh Soumya
Published: November 2024

Graphene oxide has been extensively employed as an additive in several nanocomposites to enhance their mechanical stability even though its Young's modulus is significantly smaller than that of pristine graphene.
Programmed self-assembly of conjugated oligomer-based helical nanofibres through hydrogen bonding interactions
Authors: Wang Yu , Yin Guoxin , Cheraku Pradeep , Xia Yu , Yuan Yuping , Miao Peng , Zang Huidong , Cotlet Mircea , Xu Ping , Wang Hsing-Lin
Published: November 2024

Self-assembly of m-phenylene vinylene derivatives with amino acid functional groups produces fluorescent nanofibres via hydrogen bonding, with chiral centres inducing helicity. These nanostructures exhibit enhanced thermal stability and fluorescence properties, advancing biomimetic material design.
Crown ether-based cloud point extraction for lead-212 enrichment from thorium series
Authors: Cao Shiquan , Hao Baijia , Chen Zhi
Published: November 2024

An innovative cloud point extraction (CPE) method was proposed for the extraction and enrichment of medically valuable radionuclide lead-212 (212Pb) from thorium decay series nuclides.
Supercapacitive study of a high entropy alloy and green carbon composite electrode with a wide potential window (1.3 V) and its application towards an aqueous symmetric device
Authors: Mohanty Gobinda Chandra , Verma Anu
Published: November 2024

The development of high-performance energy storage devices is essential for advancing sustainable technologies.
Microwave-assisted fabrication of a self-supported graphene-based high-entropy alloy electrode for efficient and stable electrocatalytic nitrate reduction to ammonia
Authors: Ling Yun , Feng Qingyun , Zheng Xuan , Su Hui , Zhang Yuanyuan , Zou Zehua , Liu Aifen , Huang Yang , Tang Jing , Li Yi , Zhang Maosheng , Wang Qingxiang
Published: November 2024

A self-supported reduced graphene-based FeCoNiCuSn high-entropy alloy electrode is rapidly prepared with microwave assistance for efficient and stable electrocatalytic reduction of nitrate to ammonia.
Drug molecules beyond chemical biology: fluorescence- and DFT-based investigations for fluoride ion sensing and the trace detection of chloroform
Authors: Shahzad Sohail Anjum , Javid Tayyeba , Assiri Mohammed A. , Pervaiz Aqsa , Irshad Hasher , Han Fu-She , He Di Demi
Published: November 2024

Excessive unmonitored use of fluoride has remained a threatening issue for a long time now as its long-term use is linked to several health issues.
Monitoring and controlling zeolite synthesis via reactor-based solutions: a fed-batch strategy
Authors: Javdani Amirhossein , Ivanushkin Gleb , Deneyer Aron , Dusselier Michiel
Published: November 2024

Monitoring temperature, pressure, and pH as well as intervening via pumping in ingredients at key moments in the process render the fed-batch reactor concept very useful to zeolite synthesis.
Vanadium-regulated nickel phosphide nanosheets for electrocatalytic sulfion upgrading and hydrogen production
Authors: Li Rui-Qing , Wang Xiaojun , Xie Shuixiang , Guo Songyun , Cao Zhe , Yan Zhenhao , Zhang Wei , Wan Xiaoyu
Published: November 2024

We develop V-Ni2P nanosheets to catalyze the thermodynamically favorable sulfion oxidation reaction and hydrogen evolution reaction, which simultaneously realizes energy-efficient hydrogen production and sulfur recovery.
Non-enzymatic low-level glucose detection electrode fabricated via single-step laser-induced forward transfer
Authors: Liu Pong-Ping , Lau Shing-Fung , Ding Chien-Fang
Published: November 2024

This study highlights the use of LIFT for fabricating Cu2O/ITO and Cu2O/PET electrodes, offering a rapid, adhesive-free method for non-enzymatic glucose detection on flexible substrates, with promising performance and selectivity.
Atomic cation and anion co-vacancy defects boosted the oxide path mechanism of the oxygen evolution reaction on NiFeAl-layered double hydroxide
Authors: Li Zhaoyan , Wang Duo , Kang Hongguang , Shi Zhongning , Hu Xianwei , Sun Hongbin , Xu Junli
Published: November 2024

The uniform cation and anion defects on Ni6Fe2Al-LDH shorten the interatomic M–M distance and trigger the oxide path mechanism of the oxygen evolution reaction.
MXene-driven augmentation of hole-selective self-assembled monolayer interfaces for efficient and stable p-i-n perovskite solar cells
Authors: Kim Kyeong Su , Do Jung Jae , Jung Jae Woong
Published: November 2024

MXene nanosheets enhance electrical properties of SAM-based HTLs in perovskite solar cells to achieve 23.25% efficiency with reduced trap states and negligible hysteresis.
Switchable circularly polarized luminescent Mn-based hybrid metal halides
Authors: Yu Xuexia , Zhong Songbing , Guo Zeyi , Guan Jia , Tang Hao , He Xiaolong , Chen Yihuang , Pan Shuang
Published: November 2024

This approach offers a straightforward strategy to create high-quality, stimulus-responsive chiral metal halide single crystals with large and switchable circularly polarized luminescence for use in anti-counterfeiting and luminescent devices.
Intersection decision making for autonomous vehicles based on improved PPO algorithm
Authors: Guo Dong , He Shoulin , Ji Shouwen
Published: November 2024

The deployment of autonomous vehicles (AVs) in complex urban environments faces numerous challenges, especially at intersections where they coexist with human‐driven vehicles (HVs), resulting in increased safety risks. In response, this study proposes an improved control strategy based on the Proximal Policy Optimization (PPO) algorithm, specifically designed for hybrid intersections, known as MSA‐PPO. First, the Self‐Attention Mechanism (SAM) is introduced into the algorithmic framework to quickly identify the surrounding vehicles with a greater impact on the ego vehicle from different perspectives, accelerating data processing and improving decision quality. Second, an invalid action masking mechanism is adopted to reduce the action space, ensuring actions are only selected from feasible sets, thereby enhancing decision efficiency. Finally, comparative and ablation experiments in hybrid intersection simulation environments of varying complexity are conducted to validate the algorithm's effectiveness. The results show that the improved algorithm converges faster, achieves higher decision accuracy, and demonstrates the highest speed levels during driving compared to other baseline algorithms.
An accurate small‐signal model of a low‐side active clamp forward converter and stability assessment in hard‐ and soft‐switching operations
Authors: Oluwasogo Emmanuel Seun , Konrath Jens Peter
Published: November 2024

This article examines the internal stability of an active clamp forward converter (ACFC) from a non‐linear system and arbitrary changes in the state variable's point of view. The analysis is based on the Lyapunov direct method in conjunction with the operating theory of the ACFC. The equivalent circuit with the state equations is established and their stability is assessed in consideration of the hard‐ and soft‐switching operations using the Lyapunov energy function approach in a piecewise manner. In addition, averaged switch modelling is applied explicitly to derive a more accurate small‐signal model of a low‐side ACFC. The study revealed the presence of a non‐minimum phase problem as the major adverse effect on the stability feature of the ACFC predesigned with soft‐switching capability. The instability of ACFC is related to the magnetising inductance () value (core loss resistance) which influences/determines the hard‐ or soft‐switching operations of the ACFC. Hardware prototype was developed with two different transformers having distinct values of for hard‐ and soft‐switching operations. From the experimental frequency measurement, the model accurately predicts the movement of the complex zeros from the left‐half‐plane (LHP) to the right‐hand‐plane (RHP) as the ACFC changes from the hard‐switching to a soft‐switching operation.
Wind farm control part II: Model requirements to design and test wind farm flow control
Authors: Stock Adam , Dallas Scott , Chabaud Valentin , Kölle Konstanze , Morgan Laurence , Tande John Olav , Anaya‐Lara Olimpo
Published: November 2024

Wind farm flow control (WFFC) is an emerging technology involving coordinated operation of wind turbines within a wind farm to achieve collective goals. To design and evaluate controllers, wind farm flow models are used that capture the key aerodynamics of the system whilst remaining computationally efficient for iterative controller design. This review article reveals considerable heterogeneity in the potential wind farm flow models to study WFFC. Lack of consensus is problematic as differences in results from separate studies are attributable to both controller and model effects, making it hard to draw comparative conclusions. Hence, an expert elicitation is completed surveying WFFC practitioners. Two key contributions are presented. First, a guide to available software for WFFC, which, combined with results from an expert elicitation on flow model requirements, facilitates selection of suitable software for investigating WFFC problems. Secondly, critical future research areas are identified. Research into high fidelity wind direction models (particularly transient effects) and wake meandering models for fatigue load investigations are identified as critical to the field. A lack of consensus regarding the importance of atmospheric boundary layer effects, wake induced turbulence, and lateral wind correlation identifies the requirement of sensitivity studies in these areas.
Host star and exoplanet composition: Polluted white dwarf reveals depletion of moderately refractory elements in planetary material
Authors: Aguilera-Gómez Claudia , Rogers Laura K. , Bonsor Amy , Jofré Paula , Blouin Simon , Shorttle Oliver , Buchan Andrew M. , Li Yuqi , Xu Siyi
Published: November 2024

Context. Planets form from the same cloud of molecular gas and dust as their host stars. Confirming if planetary bodies acquire the same refractory element composition as their natal disk during formation and how efficiently volatile elements are incorporated into growing planets is key to linking the poorly constrained interior composition of rocky exoplanets to the observationally constrained composition of their host star. Such comparisons also afford insight into the planet formation process.

Aims. This work compares planetary composition with host star composition using observations of a white dwarf that has accreted planetary material and its F-type star wide binary companion as a reference for the composition of the natal molecular gas and dust.

Methods. Spectroscopic analysis reveals abundances of Fe, Mg, Si, Ca, and Ti in both stars. We used the white dwarf measurements to estimate the composition of the exoplanetary material and the F-type companion to constrain the composition of the material the planet formed from.

Results. Our results from comparing planetary material to the composition of its natal cloud reveal that the planetary material is depleted in moderate refractories (Mg, Si, and Fe) relative to the refractory material (Ca, Ti). Grouping elements based on their condensation temperatures is key to linking stellar and planetary compositions.

Conclusions. Fractionation during formation or subsequent planetary evolution leads to the depletion of moderate refractories from the planetary material accreted by the white dwarf. This signature, as seen for bulk Earth, will likely be present in the composition of many exoplanets relative to their host stars.
Estimation of carbon stocks in ground cover in the oak, pine forests
Authors: Kartashova N. , Golyadkina I. , Nikitenko V. , Kartashov E.
Published: November 2024

This paper presents studies on the structural elements of biogeocenosis living ground cover vegetation for carbon cycle assessment. The ground cover is an extremely important component of forest ecosystems. Plants growing under the canopy of a forest actively participate in the production process: by assimilating carbon dioxide from the atmosphere, they create their biomass and for life remove carbon from circulation. The article carried out an assessment of carbon stocks in the living ground cover of forest ecosystems of oak and pine trees in the forest conditions of Voronezh region. The structure of the ground vegetation in oak (Quercus robur L.) and pine (Pinus silvestris L.) forests is shown to be quite specific. With the underground biomass stock exceeds the above-ground stock on all test sites laid in different plantations and conditions. The amount of carbon deposited by ground vegetation covers is 2.35 t ha-1 for moss in pine plantations and 3.80 t ha-1 for grass. Results show that the largest amount of living ground cover carbon stock in pine plantations is observed in April (32.24 t ha-1), and the smallest in May (13.15 t ha-1). The highest carbon values in oak plantations are found in underground biomass. The highest total carbon stock is in April (25.1 t ha-1) and the lowest in May (10.8 t ha-1).
The impact of climate change on the economic assessment of perennial green plants in the Chui region
Authors: Belek uulu Esenbek , Shakirova Klara , Nudel Sara , Melis uulu Danislan , Chortonbaeva Asel , Ishekeev Nazarkul
Published: November 2024

The article examines the impact of climate change on the economic assessment of perennial green spaces in the Chui region of the Kyrgyz Republic. The study includes analysis of data on climate change, crop yields and economic indicators over the past ten years. As a result of the study, main trends were identified, such as a decrease in the yield of perennial crops by 10-15%, an increase in operating costs by 20-25%, and a decrease in net profit by 15-20%. The need to introduce adaptation strategies, such as drip irrigation, selection of drought-resistant varieties and precision farming, which have reduced costs and increased yields, has been substantiated. In addition, the importance of government support, including subsidies for new technologies and adaptation programs, is emphasized, which contributes to the economic sustainability of agricultural enterprises. Long-term strategies aimed at developing new plant varieties and optimizing agricultural practices are seen as key measures to improve the resilience of the agricultural sector to climate change.
Genetic diversity level of Picea Abies forest planting material
Authors: Bondarenko Alexander
Published: November 2024

Increasing the role of environmental safety in a forest reproduction requires great attention to the level of forest plants’ genetic diversity. Currently, such researches have a high significance and direct practical interest taking into account the climate change process and the increasing impact of human activities on the natural environment. These researches are of a great interest from the point of view of assessing the risks of artificial forest plantations (due to a limited number of genotypes and influence of selection). In our studies, the genetic diversity level of breeding tree planting material was assessed on the basis of the analysis of genetic variation in annual increment of Picea abies half-sib family trees. This level was compared with genetic diversity level for standard plant material. Summing up, we can say that at the current level of selection intensity, tree breeding does not lead to a genetic diversity narrowing of for half-sib families in comparison with conventional artificial forests. At the same time, the forest tree breeding gives a reliable selection effect, leading to increased overall forest productivity. Higher growth rates of trees, as well as the value of the level of genetic diversity comparable to standard stands, allow us to recommend the seeds improved through breeding for wide use in forest management in not only forest plantations and planted stands in regular forests, but also in protective forest reforestation.
Genotype-environment interaction and F2 seed progeny productivity in the genus Betula L
Authors: Isakov Igor
Published: November 2024

Creation and study of the potential of bioresource collections (BC) of living organisms, including woody plants, is one of the priority areas of the state policy of the Russian Federation. The Voronezh Region is unique for studying the genus Betula, since two species of this genus naturally grow here: diploid - silver birch and tetraploid - downy birch. These and introduced species, complex hybrids, as well as their reciprocal hybrids are the basis of BC F1 and F2; provide selection for somatic and adaptive heterosis. The seed progeny (families) of F2 growing in conditions of leached chernozem were tested - C-4, C-20, C-27, C-31 and C-51 (silver birch); B-3, B-11, B-12, B-20 (downy birch); hybrids C-2 x b. The article presents data on the growth of birch hybrids from different subsections: Albae (Betula mandshurica Nakai, B. papyrifera Marsh., B. pendula Roth and B. pubescens Ehrh.) and Costatae (Betula lenta L.). The age of the test crops is 32 years. The possibility of obtaining intersectional birch hybrids and the prospects of crossing for obtaining genotypes with a large habitus, in which the paternal component exceeds the maternal one in terms of ploidy level, are shown.
Copper oxide nanoparticles in clonal micropropagation of red oak
Authors: Zakharova Olgae , Gusev Alexander , Strekalova Nataliya , Grigoriev Gregory , Chebotareva Svetlana , Baranchikov Peter , Kataranova Anna
Published: November 2024

Oak is an important tree species, playing a fundamental role in many forest ecosystems. Obtaining high-quality oak planting material is a actual issue in forest biotechnology. The most promising method for this, in vitro micropropagation, faces a number of problems that can be overcome using a nanobiotechnological approach. In our work, we obtained flaky copper oxide nanoparticles with a particle size of 50–200 nm in diameter and a thickness of 10–20 nm, which were used in the WPN medium at a concentration of 0.75, 1.5, 3, 6, and 15 μg L-1 at the stage of introducing the original red oak material into the in vitro tissue culture. The study demonstrated a dose-dependent antimicrobial effect: seedling sterility increased from 80% (+10% to the control) at 1.5 μg L-1 CuO to 100% at doses of 3 μg L-1 and higher. The maximum survival rate was observed at 3 μg L-1 – 43%, which is 23% higher than the control values. At the multiplication stage, nanoparticles significantly increased plant viability – twice as much in the variant with 3 μg L-1 CuO and 1.7 times when using nanoparticles and phytohormones. The combined use of nanoparticles and hormones increased the seedling height by 1.5 times and the number of additional shoots by 3 times. At the rooting stage, CuO nanoparticles did not show any rhizogenesis-stimulating effect. At the same time, phytohormones and nanoparticles stimulated root formation. At the adaptation stage, a fairly low percentage of surviving and adapted plants was observed in the control variant, while the addition of nanoparticles had a positive effect on plant adaptation. The number of surviving seedlings increased by 15%, the number of adapted ones by 10. Thus, our study showed the prospects of using CuO nanoparticles to improve the biotechnology of clonal micropropagation of red oak. In the future, these results can be used in breeding and obtaining high-quality planting material for this species.
Reasons for the sterility of allotriploid graying poplar
Authors: Sivolapov Aleksey , Blagodarova Tatyana , Sivolapov Vladimir
Published: November 2024

In Russia the first allotriploid grey poplar has been selected in the Voronezh region. It is a female plant distinguished by high productivity and stability. Cytoembryological studies of allotriploid and diploid grey poplar have been conducted to determine the low percentage of seed binding (sterility). Anomalies in the formation of macrogametophyte have been observed in the triploid seedbuds. 70% of the 144 cells analyzed in triploid poplar had pathologies in the embryo sac, which leads to the formation of sterile seedbuds. Anomalies of macrogametophyte prove hybrid, triploid nature of this form of poplar. The selected poplar is propagated only vegetatively to preserve its hereditary traits.
Problems of preserving regional biodiversity under climate change: Threats and opportunities
Authors: Bezrukova Tatiana , Treyman Marina , Kuvshinova Oksana
Published: November 2024

Biodiversity, a phrase describing the variety of living organisms on the planet, is a source of vital resources and services for humanity. However, human influences on ecosystems are causing rapid and widespread loss of biodiversity. Humans are currently transforming the environment at a faster rate and over vast areas than ever before. In addition, climate change is placing additional stress on natural ecosystems. Life on Earth has always had to adapt to climate change, which has contributed significantly to the evolutionary processes that led to the emergence of modern plant and animal species. This article provides a comparative review of alternative research methods and describes principles for collecting and analyzing high-quality information. This paper proposes to use simulation modeling and statistical analysis to study and assess environmental and economic indicators, which will allow us to draw a conclusion about possible significant transformations not only of the climate, but also of biodiversity. Of course, in order to reduce the negative consequences of these changes, it is critically important to take preventive steps to adapt to new climatic conditions and preserve the biodiversity of the region.
Effects of bacterial isolates separated from the rhizosphere of halophytic plants on plant growth
Authors: Halkuzieva Mokhira , Abdusamadov Sokhib , Hujumova Kamola , Alloyorova Shakhnoza , Rakhmatullaeva Shakhnoza
Published: November 2024

The plant development is affected by various factors such changes in soil and plant microflora, and the use of more chemical pesticides. The adaptation of halophytes to the harsh environment may be facilitated by the pertinent characteristics of microorganisms that reside in the intercellular space of the tissues of salt-tolerant desert plants. In addition to solving the primary issue of comprehending their function in adaptation, research on the rhizosphere bacteria of salt-tolerant plants is practically significant for the production of biofertilizers that support the growth of agricultural crops in saline soils. In this paper, plant growth-promoting rhizobacteria (PGPR) are in close association with roots to enhance host plant adaptation to their environment and the relative abundance of Arthrobacter, Bacillus, Massilia, and Devosia in the rhizosphere and Bacillus, Oceanobacillus, Lactococcus, and Massilia in roots during tillering and ripening stages and these genera are described as important rhizobacteria. 70 bacterial isolates were isolated from the rhizosphere of different plants growing in saline soils. 22 isolates were identified as salt-tolerant based on their growth characteristics in feeds with 15-20% NaCl and were selected as a result of one-step screening. Antifungal activity of 22 selected bacterial isolates against pathogenic fungi was identified. It was found that isolates 5, 13, 3.1, 34.1, 19, 10, 4 and 30 are more active than others and have a better ability to inhibit pathogenic fungi.
Results of simulation modeling of tractor regenerative linkage system operation
Authors: Nikonov Vadim , Posmetev Valery , Posmetev Victor , Matyashov Alexey
Published: November 2024

The main factors that have the greatest impact on the change in the efficiency of timber road trains are determined. A promising design of a recuperative cone device with a ball support for the timber platform of a tractor is proposed. A mathematical model has been developed that describes the operation of a cone device with a ball support when moving a timber truck with a trailer loaded with timber. Graphs of the influence of the studied operational and design factors on the efficiency indicators of the recuperative cone device with a ball support are obtained. The greatest impact on the recuperated mass and the amplitude of the lateral displacement of a bundle of timber relative to the tractor is exerted by the maximum studied height of the unevenness of the simulated timber road.