bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Effect of conditional release on violent and general recidivism: A causal inference study
Authors: Karimi-Haghighi Marzieh , Castillo Carlos , Tolan Songül , Lum Kristian
Published: December 2023

Objectives

To study the effect of Conditional Release (C.R.) on recidivism. To compare this effect along different recidivism risk levels, to evaluate whether risk-assessment-based policies that prioritize people in lower risk categories for release maximally reduce recidivism.

Methods

We use a dataset of 22,726 incarcerated persons released from 87 prison centers in Spain. We apply multiple causal inference methods including Propensity Score Matching (PSM), Inverse Propensity score Weighting (IPW), and Augmented Inverse Propensity Weighting (AIPW) to determine Average Treatment Effect (ATE) of C.R. on recidivism.

Results

Granting C.R. significantly reduces violent and general recidivism risks.

Conclusions

The results suggest that C.R. can promote a safe and supervised return to the community while protecting public safety. ATEs obtained through causal inference methods suggest that granting C.R. exclusively to low-risk inmates does not lead to the maximum reduction of recidivism, and hence we propose alternatives to be studied further.
A lipidomic and metabolomic signature of a very low-carbohydrate high-fat diet and high-intensity interval training: an additional analysis of a randomized controlled clinical trial
Authors: Cipryan Lukas , Kosek Vit , García Carlos J. , Dostal Tomas , Bechynska Kamila , Hajslova Jana , Hofmann Peter
Published: December 2023

Introduction

Regular physical activity and dietary variety are modifiable and influential factors of health outcomes. However, the cumulative effects of these behaviors are not well understood. Metabolomics may have a promising research potential to extend our knowledge and use it in the attempts to find a long-term and sustainable personalized approach in exercise and diet recommendations.

Objective

The main aim was to investigate the effect of the 12 week very low carbohydrate high fat (VLCHF) diet and high-intensity interval training (HIIT) on lipidomic and metabolomic profiles in individuals with overweight and obesity.

Methods

The participants (N = 91) were randomly allocated to HIIT (N = 22), VLCHF (N = 25), VLCHF + HIIT (N = 25) or control (N = 19) groups for 12 weeks. Fasting plasma samples were collected before the intervention and after 4, 8 and 12 weeks. The samples were then subjected to untargeted lipidomic and metabolomic analyses using reversed phase ultra-high-performance liquid chromatography coupled to high-resolution mass spectrometry.

Results

The VLCHF diet affected plasma lipids considerably while the effect of HIIT was unremarkable. Already after 4 weeks of intervention substantial changes of plasma lipids were found in both VLCHF diet groups. The changes persisted throughout the entire 12 weeks of the VLCHF diet. Specifically, acyl carnitines, plasmalogens, fatty acyl esters of hydroxy fatty acid, sphingomyelin, ceramides, cholesterol esters, fatty acids and 4-hydroxybutyric were identified as lipid families that increased in the VLCHF diet groups whereas lipid families of triglycerides and glycerophospholipids decreased. Additionally, metabolomic analysis showed a decrease of theobromine.

Conclusions

This study deciphers the specific responses to a VLCHF diet, HIIT and their combination by analysing untargeted lipidomic and metabolomic profile. VLCHF diet caused divergent changes of plasma lipids and other metabolites when compared to the exercise and control group which may contribute to a better understanding of metabolic changes and the appraisal of VLCHF diet benefits and harms.

Clinical Trial Registry number

NCT03934476, registered 1st May 2019 https://clinicaltrials.gov/ct2/show/NCT03934476?term=NCT03934476&draw=2&rank=1.
Extended automated quantification algorithm (AQuA) for targeted 1H NMR metabolomics of highly complex samples: application to plant root exudates
Authors: Alexandersson Elin , Sandström Corine , Meijer Johan , Nestor Gustav , Broberg Anders , Röhnisch Hanna E.
Published: December 2023

Introduction

The Automated Quantification Algorithm (AQuA) is a rapid and efficient method for targeted NMR-based metabolomics, currently optimised for blood plasma. AQuA quantifies metabolites from 1D-1H NMR spectra based on the height of only one signal per metabolite, which minimises the computational time and workload of the method without compromising the quantification accuracy.

Objectives

To develop a fast and computationally efficient extension of AQuA for quantification of selected metabolites in highly complex samples, with minimal prior sample preparation. In particular, the method should be capable of handling interferences caused by broad background signals.

Methods

An automatic baseline correction function was combined with AQuA into an automated workflow, the extended AQuA, for quantification of metabolites in plant root exudate NMR spectra that contained broad background signals and baseline distortions. The approach was evaluated using simulations as well as a spike-in experiment in which known metabolite amounts were added to a complex sample matrix.

Results

The extended AQuA enables accurate quantification of metabolites in 1D-1H NMR spectra with varying complexity. The method is very fast (< 1 s per spectrum) and can be fully automated.

Conclusions

The extended AQuA is an automated quantification method intended for 1D-1H NMR spectra containing broad background signals and baseline distortions. Although the method was developed for plant root exudates, it should be readily applicable to any NMR spectra displaying similar issues as it is purely computational and applied to NMR spectra post-acquisition.
A comprehensive review on the application of semiconducting materials in the degradation of effluents and water splitting
Authors: Mahmoud Muhammed A. , Alsehli Bandar R. , Alotaibi Mohammed T. , Hosni Mohamed , Shahat Ahmed
Published: December 2023

In this comprehensive review article, we delve into the critical intersection of environmental science and materials science. The introduction sets the stage by emphasizing the global water shortage crisis and the dire consequences of untreated effluents on ecosystems and human health. As we progress into the second section, we embark on an intricate exploration of piezoelectric and photocatalytic principles, illuminating their significance in wastewater treatment and sustainable energy production. The heart of our review is dedicated to a detailed analysis of the detrimental impacts of effluents on human health, underscoring the urgency of effective treatment methods. We dissected three key materials in the realm of piezo-photocatalysis: ZnO-based materials, BaTiO3-based materials, and bismuth-doped materials. Each material is scrutinized for its unique properties and applications in the removal of pollutants from wastewater, offering a comprehensive understanding of their potential to address this critical issue. Furthermore, our exploration extends to the realm of hydrogen production, where we discuss various types of hydrogen and the role of piezo-photocatalysis in generating clean and sustainable hydrogen. By illuminating the synergistic potential of these advanced materials and technologies, we pave the way for innovative solutions to the pressing challenges of water pollution and renewable energy production. This review article not only serves as a valuable resource for researchers and scholars in the fields of material science and environmental engineering but also underscores the pivotal role of interdisciplinary approaches in addressing complex global issues.
Towards a Framework for a Nation-Wide Implementation of Augmented, Virtual and Mixed Reality in K-12 Technical and Vocational Education
Authors: Boel Carl , Dekeyser Kim , Lemal Marijke , Rotsaert Tijs , Valcke Martin , Schellens Tammy , Struyf Dieter
Published: December 2023

As augmented, virtual and mixed reality have become more user-friendly and affordable, these technologies gained increasing interest from education. Teachers all over the world are triggered by the perceived benefits and start experimenting. However, teachers encounter obstacles to pursue effective implementation. This paper describes how these obstacles are being tackled in Flanders (Belgium) via a large-scale, nation-wide framework for the implementation of augmented, virtual and mixed reality in K-12 technical and vocational education. This framework was designed, adopting an Educational Design Research approach, and consists of five interrelated pillars: hardware, software, professional development of teachers, practice-oriented research, and coordination. The proposed framework provides guidelines, both for researchers and education policy makers.
Climate-growth relationships of Pinus tabuliformis along an altitudinal gradient on Baiyunshan Mountain, Central China
Authors: Wei Xiaoxu , Peng Jianfeng , Li Jinbao , Li Jinkuan , Peng Meng , Li Xuan , Liu Yameng , Li Jiaxin
Published: December 2023

A set of standard chronologies for tree-ring width (TRW), earlywood width (EWW) and latewood width (LWW) in Pinus tabuliformis Carr. along an altitudinal gradient (1450, 1400, and 1350 m a.s.l.) on Baiyunshan Mountain, Central China to analyze the effect of varying temperature and precipitation on growth along the gradient. Correlation analyses showed that at all three altitudes and the TRW and EWW chronologies generally had significant negative correlations with mean and maximum temperatures in the current April and May and with minimum temperatures in the prior July and August, but significant positive correlations with precipitation in the current May. Correlations were generally significantly negative between LWW chronologies and all temperatures in the prior July and August, indicating that the prior summer temperature had a strong lag effect on the growth of P. tabuliformis that increased with altitude. The correlation with the standardized precipitation evapotranspiration index (SPEI) confirmed that wet conditions in the current May promoted growth of TR and EW at all altitudes. Significant altitudinal differences were also found; at 1400 m, there were significant positive correlations between EWW chronologies and SPEI in the current April and significant negative correlations between LWW chronologies and SPEI in the current September, but these correlations were not significant at 1450 m. At 1350 m, there were also significant negative correlations between the TRW and the EWW chronologies and SPEI in the prior October and the current July and between LWW chronology and SPEI in the current August, but these correlations were not significant at 1400 m. Moving correlation results showed a stable response of EWW in relation to the SPEI in the current May at all three altitudes and of LWW to maximum temperature in the prior July–August at 1400 m from 2002 to 2018. The EWW chronology at 1400 m and the LWW chronology at 1450 m were identified as more suitable for climate reconstruction. These results provide a strong scientific basis for forest management decisions and climate reconstructions in Central China.
The role of total neoadjuvant therapy in locally advanced rectal cancer: a survey of specialists attending the All-Ireland Colorectal Cancer Conference 2022 including lead investigators of OPRA, PRODIGE-23 and RAPIDO
Authors: O’Brien Timothy , Hospers Geke , Conroy Thierry , Lenz Heinz-Josef , Smith Jesse Joshua , Andrews Emmet , O’Neill Brian , Leonard Gregory
Published: December 2023

Background

The treatment of locally advanced rectal cancer (LARC) has evolved following recent landmark trials of total neoadjuvant therapy (TNT)—the delivery of preoperative chemotherapy sequenced with radiation.

Aim

To assess the preferences of colorectal surgery (CRS), radiation oncology (RO) and medical oncology (MO) specialists attending the All-Ireland Colorectal Cancer Conference (AICCC) 2022 regarding the neoadjuvant management of LARC.

Methods

A live electronic survey explored the preferred treatment approach and TNT regimen for early-, intermediate-, bad-, and advanced-risk categories of rectal cancer according to the European Society of Medical Oncology (ESMO) guidelines. The survey was preceded by an update from lead investigators of TNT trials (OPRA, PRODIGE-23 and RAPIDO), who then participated in a multidisciplinary panel discussion.

Results

Ten CRS, 7 RO and 15 MO (32 of 45 specialists) participated fully in the survey resulting in a response rate of 71%. Ninety-four percent, 76% and 53% of specialists preferred a TNT approach for patients with advanced, bad, and intermediate-risk rectal cancer, respectively. A consolidation TNT regimen of long-course chemoradiotherapy followed by chemotherapy was the most preferred regimen. Upfront surgery was preferred by 77% for early-risk disease.

Conclusion

This survey illustrated the general acceptance of TNT by rectal cancer specialists attending the AICCC as a valuable treatment strategy for higher-risk category LARC. Whilst the treatment of LARC changes, it remains best practice to individualize care, incorporating the selective use of TNT as discussed by an MDT and in keeping with the patient’s goals of care.
Caspases in Alzheimer’s Disease: Mechanism of Activation, Role, and Potential Treatment
Authors: Wójcik Piotr , Jastrzębski Michał K. , Zięba Agata , Matosiuk Dariusz , Kaczor Agnieszka A.
Published: December 2023

With the aging of the population, treatment of conditions emerging in old age, such as neurodegenerative disorders, has become a major medical challenge. Of these, Alzheimer’s disease, leading to cognitive dysfunction, is of particular interest. Neuronal loss plays an important role in the pathophysiology of this condition, and over the years, a great effort has been made to determine the role of various factors in this process. Unfortunately, until now, the exact pathomechanism of this condition remains unknown. However, the most popular theories associate AD with abnormalities in the Tau and β-amyloid (Aβ) proteins, which lead to their deposition and result in neuronal death. Neurons, like all cells, die in a variety of ways, among which pyroptosis, apoptosis, and necroptosis are associated with the activation of various caspases. It is worth mentioning that Tau and Aβ proteins are considered to be one of the caspase activators, leading to cell death. Moreover, the protease activity of caspases influences both of the previously mentioned proteins, Tau and Aβ, converting them into more toxic derivatives. Due to the variety of ways caspases impact the development of AD, drugs targeting caspases could potentially be useful in the treatment of this condition. Therefore, there is a constant need to search for novel caspase inhibitors and evaluate them in preclinical and clinical trials.

Graphical Abstract
Interaction of inhomogeneous warm electron beam with collisional cold plasma
Authors: El-Shorbagy Kh. H. , Shalaby S. A. , Mahassen Hania , Amein W. H. , Sayed Y. A. , Elbendary A. A.
Published: December 2023

The linear interaction of a warm non-homogeneous electron beam (EB) with a non-homogeneous, unmagnetized, collisional cold plasma is investigated. The inhomogeneity and warmness of beam which leads to electric field amplification have no effect on the dielectric of the unmagnetized plasma. The study revealed that the dielectric constant remains unaffected by the warmness of the beam whereas the amplification of the electric field is affected by the warmness of the beam.
Information and Communication Technology (ICT), Growth and Development in Developing Regions: Evidence from a Comparative Analysis and a New Approach
Authors: Saba Charles Shaaba , Ngepah Nicholas , Odhiambo Nicholas M.
Published: December 2023

The majority of empirical literature acknowledges that information and communication technology (ICT) has a favourable effect on economic growth/development. Different studies, however, contend that this impact is modest or perhaps null, yielding inconsistent findings. In view of this complication, we therefore conducted a study with the aim to analyse the ICT diffusion-economic growth-development nexus for 73 countries over the period 2000–2018. The panel data was divided into three regions, namely sub-Saharan Africa (SSA), the Middle East and North Africa (MENA), and Latin America and the Caribbean (LAAC). For the analysis, the newly developed panel vector autoregression (PVAR) in the generalised method of moments (GMM) estimation approach was applied. Our findings suggest a long-run equilibrium relationship between the three variables. The findings differ from the causality results for the overall panel and each of the regions differs. The inconsistency in the causality results across the regions suggests that the level of ICT diffusion is still underdeveloped. The PVAR-GMM results reveal that (i) ICT diffusion is a significant and positive predictor of growth across the regions, with a greater effect reported in MENA; (ii) ICT diffusion is a significant and positive predictor of development across the regions with a lesser effect noticed in MENA. The study’s implication for academia and practice is that (i) it provides important information on the ICT diffusion-economic growth-development nexus within the context of the econometric approaches used, and (ii) policymakers and managers of telecom businesses should accommodate sufficient support to further establish the ICT infrastructures and expand its penetration for all round sustainable and inclusive growth and development purposes.
Good eutrophication status is a challenging goal for coastal waters
Authors: Hyytiäinen Kari , Huttunen Inese , Kotamäki Niina , Kuosa Harri , Ropponen Janne
Published: December 2023

Our objective is to understand the effectiveness of local and international nutrient pollution mitigation efforts when targeting better water quality in the region’s coastal waters. To this end, we developed an integrated modeling framework for the Archipelago Sea located in the Baltic Sea in Northern Europe, conducted what-if analyses for various ambition levels of nutrient abatement, and studied the long-term consequences at the sea basin scale. We demonstrate that in outer parts of the Archipelago Sea, a good eutrophication status can be achieved if the current internationally agreed policy goals for nutrient abatement are successfully met. In inner coastal areas, current goals for phytoplankton biomass could be reached only through extreme mitigation efforts in all polluting sectors and large-scale application of yet poorly tested ecological engineering methods. This result calls for carefully considering the relevance of current threshold values for phytoplankton and its role as a dominant indicator of good ecological status.
Polymer-nanocarbon composites: a promising strategy for enhanced performance of organic solar cells
Authors: K.V. Gayathri Mohan , George Jelby , Balachandran Manoj
Published: December 2023

The exigency for sustainable and clean energy resources has led to profound research in development of various generations of solar cells, aiming to control the over-exploitation of fossil fuels and subsequently limit environmental degradation. Among the fast-emerging third-generation solar cells, polymer solar cell technology has gained much consideration due to its potential for achieving economically feasible, lightweight, flexible solar energy harvesting devices. As a predominant research area, at present, the major concerns regarding polymer solar cells include improving conversion efficiency, enhancing absorption bandgap in polymers, limiting photochemical degradation, and remediating low dielectric constant. Nanocarbon materials can be effectively blended with polymers and have been widely reported to enhance the performance of polymer solar cells owing to their desirable characteristics like high electrical conductivity, mechanical strength, thermal stability, non-toxicity, large specific surface area, flexibility, and optical transparency. In this review, we briefly discuss various conjugated polymer-nanocarbon composites, including polymer/graphene derivatives, polymer/graphene quantum dots (GQD), and polymer/carbon nanotubes (CNTs), elucidating their roles in the performance enhancement of polymer solar cells (PSCs).

Graphical abstract
Police Interrogation, Language, and the Law
Authors: Mason Marianne
Published: December 2023

Recent calls for justice reform have put a spotlight on how the police enforce the law in the United States. How a person's constitutional rights may be legally thwarted during police interrogation, however, has not been part of any meaningful discussion on police reform. This novel book examines the intersections of the law and policing discourse through the detailed analysis of a large corpus of United States federal court rulings, starting with Miranda v. Arizona (1966). It covers a wide range of topics, including the history of police interrogation in the United States, the role of federal law in handicapping a person's ability to invoke their right to counsel, and the invocation game of police interrogation that may lead a variety of suspects to change their discursive preferences. It highlights the need for American police interrogation reform, exploring the paths taken by other jurisdictions outside of the United States. This title is part of the Flip it Open programme and may also be available on open access. Check our website, Cambridge Core, for details.
Climatic Changes in North Atlantic O2 Amplified by Temperature Sensitivity of Phytoplankton Growth
Authors: Margolskee A. , Ito T. , Long M. , Deutsch C.
Published: December 2023

Ocean warming is associated with a decline in the global oxygen (O2) inventory, but the ratio of O2 loss to heat gain is poorly understood. We analyzed historical variability in temperature (T), O2, and nitrate in hydrographic observations and model simulations of the North Atlantic, a relatively well‐sampled region that is important for deep ocean ventilation. Multidecadal fluctuations of O2 concentrations in subpolar thermocline waters (100–700 m) are correlated with changes in their heat content, with a slope 35% steeper than that expected from thermal solubility. Variations of O2 in excess of the solubility effect are correlated with observed decadal changes in in the surface layer (0–50 m), which declines by ∼1 mmol N m−3 per degree of temperature anomaly. Enhanced biologically mediated drawdown of nutrients from the photic zone and associated respiration in deeper water account for the additional depletion of thermocline O2 during warm years. In model simulations, increased nutrient consumption in warm periods is driven by an early start of the phytoplankton growing season and faster phytoplankton growth rates at higher temperatures. Our results highlight a role for phytoplankton T‐dependent growth rates in amplifying ocean O2 loss.
Uncertainty on Atlantic Niño Variability Projections
Authors: Prigent A. , Imbol Koungue R. A. , Imbol Nkwinkwa A. S. N. , Beobide‐Arsuaga G. , Farneti R.
Published: December 2023

Sources of uncertainty (i.e., internal variability, model and scenario) in Atlantic Niño variability projections were quantified in 49 models participating in the Coupled Model Intercomparison Phases 5 (CMIP5) and 6 (CMIP6). By the end of the twenty‐first century, the ensemble mean change in Atlantic Niño variability is −0.07 ± 0.10˚C, with 80% of CMIP models projecting a decrease, and representing a 16% reduction relative to the 1981–2005 ensemble mean. Models' projections depict a large spread, with variability changes ranging from 0.23˚C to −0.50˚C. Internal variability is the main source of uncertainty until 2045 but model uncertainty dominates thereafter, eventually explaining up to 80% of the total uncertainty. The scenario uncertainty remains low (<1%) throughout the twenty‐first century. The total uncertainty on Atlantic Niño variability projections is not improved when considering only CMIP models with a realistic zonal equatorial Atlantic sea surface temperature gradient.
Evidence for a Kilometer‐Scale Seismically Slow Layer Atop the Core‐Mantle Boundary From Normal Modes
Authors: Russell Stuart , Irving Jessica C. E. , Jagt Lisanne , Cottaar Sanne
Published: December 2023

Geodynamic modeling and seismic studies have highlighted the possibility that a thin layer of low seismic velocities, potentially molten, may sit atop the core‐mantle boundary but has thus far eluded detection. In this study we employ normal modes, an independent data type to body waves, to assess the visibility of a seismically slow layer atop the core‐mantle boundary to normal mode center frequencies. Using forward modeling and a data set of 353 normal mode observations we find that some center frequencies are sensitive to one‐dimensional kilometer‐scale structure at the core‐mantle boundary. Furthermore, a global slow and dense layer 1–3 km thick is better‐fitting than no layer. The well‐fitting parameter space is broad with a wide range of possible seismic parameters, which precludes inferring a possible composition or phase. Our methodology cannot uniquely detect a layer in the Earth but one should be considered possible and accounted for in future studies.
Kinetics of the Reaction MSI− + O3 in Deliquesced Aerosol Particles: Implications for Sulfur Chemistry in the Marine Boundary Layer
Authors: Liu Tengyu , Ma Lingya , Yang Yiping , Ding Aijun
Published: December 2023

Multiphase oxidation of methane sulfinic acid (MSIA) by ozone (O3) in deliquesced aerosol particles is an important but poorly constrained reaction in the marine boundary layer, hindering the accurate prediction of radiative forcing of natural aerosols. Large uncertainties arise from the unmeasured reaction rate constant for the aerosol multiphase reaction between O3 and methanesulfinate (MSI−), the dominant MSIA species in sea salt aerosols. Here, we directly measured by performing flow cell experiments coupled with a Raman spectroscopy to investigate the kinetics of multiphase oxidation of MSI− by O3 in pH‐buffered deliquesced aerosol particles relevant to marine atmospheric conditions. for aerosol particles was determined to be (2.2 ± 0.5) × 107 M−1 s−1, 10 times the value in dilute solutions. This higher rate constant would increase the yield of methane sulfonic acid from multiphase oxidation of MSIA and has important implications for accurate modeling of sulfur species.
Adjoint‐State Teleseismic Traveltime Tomography: Method and Application to Thailand in Indochina Peninsula
Authors: Chen Jing , Wu Shucheng , Xu Mijian , Nagaso Masaru , Yao Jiayuan , Wang Kai , Li Tianjue , Bai Yiming , Tong Ping
Published: December 2023

We propose a novel framework for teleseismic traveltime tomography that requires no ray tracing. The tomographic inverse problem is formulated as an Eikonal equation‐constrained optimization problem, aiming at the determination of a slowness model that minimizes the difference between observational and predicted differential traveltimes. Two improvements have been made over previous ray‐based methods. First, the traveltimes from the source outside the study region to any positions within the study region are computed using a hybrid approach. This involves solving a 2D Eikonal equation to obtain the traveltimes from the source to the boundary of the study region and solving a 3D Eikonal equation to compute the traveltimes from the boundary to any positions within the study region. Second, we compute the sensitivity kernel using the adjoint‐state method. This method avoids the computation of ray paths and makes the computational cost nearly independent of the number of receivers. We apply our new method in Thailand and adjacent regions. The final velocity model reveals a thick lithosphere beneath the Khorat Plateau and two mantle upwelling branches beneath its southern and western margins. The mantle upwelling may result from the mantle convection triggered by surrounding subduction systems and/or a slab window of the Indian Plate. The presence of the mantle upwelling corresponds to the source zone of the erupted Cenozoic basalts in the Khorat Plateau, indicating lithospheric modification beneath the plateau. The insightful tomographic result verifies our method and provides new perspectives on the structural heterogeneities and dynamics of the Indochina Block.
CANVAS: An Adjoint Waveform Tomography Model of California and Nevada
Authors: Doody Claire , Rodgers Arthur , Afanasiev Michael , Boehm Christian , Krischer Lion , Chiang Andrea , Simmons Nathan
Published: December 2023

We present the California‐Nevada Adjoint Simulations (CANVAS) model, an adjoint waveform tomography model of the crust and uppermost mantle of the states of California and Nevada. We used WUS256 (Rodgers et al., 2022, https://doi.org/10.1029/2022jb024549) as the starting model and iteratively decreased the minimum period of CANVAS from 30 to 12 s. CANVAS was iterated in two distinct stages: the first stage with source mechanisms from the Global Centroid Moment Tensor (GCMT) catalog and the second stage with inverted moment tensors (MT) using the CANV_WUS model (Doody et al., 2023, https://doi.org/10.1029/2023jb026463). We show that updating the MTs with 3D Green's functions improved waveform fits and azimuthal coverage of windowed data used to calculate the gradients. As for the model itself, we improved waveform fits over WUS256, particularly in the dispersed surface waves. CANVAS resolved tectonic features seen in other models and accurately defined the depth to basement of major basins, including the Central Valley and the Ventura Basin. We propose CANVAS as a starting model for crustal tomography models on smaller scales.
Mercury's Exosphere as Seen by BepiColombo/PHEBUS Visible Channels During the First Two Flybys
Authors: Robidel R. , Quémerais E. , Chaufray J. Y. , Koutroumpa D. , Leblanc F. , Reberac A. , Yoshikawa I. , Yoshioka K. , Murakami G. , Korablev O. , Belyaev D. , Pelizzo M. G. , Corso A. J.
Published: December 2023

BepiColombo, the ESA/JAXA joint mission performed its first flyby of Mercury on 1 October 2021 and its second on 23 June 2022. PHEBUS observed the exosphere of Mercury during these flybys notably with its visible channels c404 (centered on the potassium emission line at 404 nm) and c422 (centered on the calcium emission line at 422 nm). The c422 signal shows not only an enhancement of calcium (Ca) near the dawn region but also a very extensive Ca exosphere on the morning side beyond 10,000 km. The e‐folding distance deduced from our Ca profiles (2,500–2,800 km) is in agreement with the value reported by MESSENGER at similar true anomaly angles. We use a Chamberlain model to determine the temperature and density at the exobase. Using the morning side low‐altitude data, we derived a high temperature at the exobase (>50,000 K), in agreement with the MESSENGER results. We also report a day/night asymmetry in the Ca exosphere that could indicate that the source of Ca is predominantly on the dayside or be the consequence of a shift of the main source of Ca away from the dawn region. The c404 channel detected additional species at low altitudes on the morning side during both flybys. Comparison with previous studies is inconclusive and further analysis will be necessary to identify the species. Nevertheless, we can note that the e‐folding distance deduced from our profile is relatively small (135 km) and that the Chamberlain model applied to our profiles seems to indicate a temperature at the exobase <3,000 K.
Symbiotic Ocean Modeling Using Physics‐Controlled Echo State Networks
Authors: Mulder T. E. , Baars S. , Wubs F. W. , Pelupessy F. I. , Verstraaten M. , Dijkstra H. A.
Published: December 2023

We introduce a “symbiotic” ocean modeling strategy that leverages data‐driven and machine learning methods to allow high‐ and low‐resolution dynamical models to mutually benefit from each other. In this work we mainly focus on how a low‐resolution model can be enhanced within a symbiotic model configuration. The broader aim is to enhance the representation of unresolved processes in low‐resolution models, while simultaneously improving the efficiency of high‐resolution models. To achieve this, we use a grid‐switching approach together with hybrid modeling techniques that combine linear regression‐based methods with nonlinear echo state networks. The approach is applied to both the Kuramoto–Sivashinsky equation and a single‐layer quasi‐geostrophic ocean model, and shown to simulate short‐term and long‐term behavior better than either purely data‐based methods or low‐resolution models. By maintaining key flow characteristics, the hybrid modeling techniques are also able to provide higher quality initial conditions for high‐resolution models, thereby improving their efficiency.
Glycyrrhizic acid aggregates seen from a synthetic surfactant perspective
Authors: Fischer Peter , Lutz-Bueno Viviane
Published: December 2023

Bio- or plant-based surfactants are a sustainable and renewable alternative to replace synthetic chemicals for environmental, drugs and food applications.
A systematic study on the phase diagram and superconductivity of ternary clathrate Ca–Sc–H at high pressures
Authors: Yuan Wenjie , Yang Xu , Li Shichang , Feng Chunbao , Chen Bole , Chang Ying , Li Dengfeng
Published: December 2023

This work explores potential high-temperature superconductor materials in hydrogen-rich systems.
Ion current rectification properties of non-Newtonian fluids in conical nanochannels
Authors: Tang Lei , Hao Yu , Peng Li , Liu Runxin , Zhou Yi , Li Jie
Published: December 2023

In this study, the ICR properties of non-Newtonian fluids in conical nanochannels are investigated. The results show that both increasing and decreasing power-law index n (with respect to n = 1) have an inhibitory effect on ICR.
Enhancement of multilayer lithium storage in a β12-borophene/graphene heterostructure with built-in dipoles
Authors: Jiang Xiaowei , Tang Wenjun , Niu Xiaobin , Chen Haiyuan
Published: December 2023

The combination of borophene with a supporting metallic layer is beneficial in stabilizing its structure and promoting its application in energy storage.
Unexpected reduction in thermal conductivity observed in graphene/h-BN heterostructures
Authors: Wu Zhang , Liu Rumeng , Wei Ning , Wang Lifeng
Published: December 2023

Unexpected reduction in thermal conductivity of graphene/h-BN parallel heterostructures: a synergistic effect of interface stress and uneven mass distribution.
A high-performance lignin flow fuel cell based on self-generating electricity of lignin at low temperature via a privileged structure and redox chemistry
Authors: Xie Zixin , Zu Xihong , Lin Jinxin , Qiu Xueqing , Liang Tengda , Chen Liheng
Published: December 2023

A lignin flow fuel cell is developed which can self-generate electricity via the privileged structure and redox chemistry of lignin without electron mediators and pre-reaction. It achieves high power density and long-term stability at room temperature.
Synergistic effect of composition gradient and morphology on the catalytic activity of amorphous FeCoNi-LDH
Authors: Li Yuan-Yuan , Fu Xiao Nan , Zhu Lin , Xie Ying , Shao Gong Lei , Zhou Bing-Xin , Huang Wei-Qing , Huang Gui-Fang , Wang Na
Published: December 2023

Developing a novel strategy – a one-step double-cation etching sedimentation equilibrium strategy route – to synthesize amorphous hollow Fe-Co-Ni layered double hydroxide nanocages.
Efficient and low roll-off deep-blue organic light-emitting diodes with anthracene-based compounds as hosts
Authors: Sun Tong , Shui Xinfeng , Chen Weian , Chen Yi , Shi Wei , Huang Jinhai , Wei Bin
Published: December 2023

We synthesize four anthracene-based bipolar host materials. The external quantum efficiency and the max luminance of the deep blue OLEDs reaches 8.10% and 7973 cd m−2, and the CIE is (0.1298, 0.1712) with a low efficiency roll-off of only 2.9%.
Selective production of γ-valerolactone from biomass-derived levulinic acid over a Ni/CMK-3 catalyst
Authors: Zhang Rui , Song Xishang , Wu Han , Zhai Yunqi , Qiao Yina , Yu Zhihao , Xiong Jian , Lu Xuebin
Published: December 2023

The conversion of levulinic acid (LA) into γ-valerolactone (GVL) is a critical reaction for upgrading biomass into high value-added chemicals.
Switching the hydrogenation selectivity of urea derivatives via subtly tuning the amount and type of additive in the catalyst system
Authors: Zhu Jun , Wang Yongtao , Yao Jia , Li Haoran
Published: December 2023

We have developed a triphos-Ru catalytic system that can switch the chemoselectivity in catalytic hydrogenation of urea derivatives (from N-formamides to N-monomethylamines and methanol) by changing only 0.5 mol% KOtBu (2% to 1.5%).
Forced and spontaneous translocation dynamics of a semiflexible active polymer in two dimensions
Authors: Tan Fei , Wang Jingli , Yan Ran , Zhao Nanrong
Published: December 2023

We clarify two distinct dependencies of translocation time with increasing bending modulus within forced and spontaneous translocation systems and reveal the underlying physical mechanism.
The recent research progress of polyphenol‐derived biomaterials in wound repair
Authors: Zhao Shuya , Han Lu , Yan Liwei , Lu Xiong
Published: December 2023

The clinical requirements for wound care are increasing daily, and the global wound dressing market is expanding; however, the research and development of new wound dressings are imminent. Natural biomolecules such as polyphenols, have been widely used in this field of vision. Owing to their unique anti‐oxidative, adhesive, antibacterial and other bioactive functions, researchers have developed a series of wound dressings with excellent performance and applied them to a variety of biomaterials, such as hydrogels, nanofibers, films and scaffolds. They can effectively promote angiogenesis and fibroblast migration and proliferation, scavenge active oxygen free radicals, inhibit excessive inflammatory reactions at wound sites and ultimately accelerate wound healing. The authors summarise the latest progress in polyphenol‐derived biomaterials in skin wound repair to provide inspiration for future wound dressing research.
The low‐cost inhomogeneous multi‐section flat lens antenna with minimum F over D design in Ku‐band
Authors: Taskhiri Mohammad Mahdi
Published: December 2023

This article uses the ray inserting method to design a low‐cost inhomogeneous lens in the Ku‐band. The focal length to the diametre ratio of the designed lens is 0.45, which is lower than most designed lenses in this area. Also, no approximation is considered to yield the refractive index profile. The refractive index changes from the centre to the sides have been made in two sections to limit the maximum calculated refractive index of the structure to the Plexiglass refractive index. The designed lens proposed a good match to the source and surroundings. The theoretical design is validated by the finite difference time domain scheme and full‐wave simulation. The lens structure is realised and fabricated on a multilayer Plexiglass sheet. The results of simulations and experiments indicate good performances of the designed lens in the wide frequency bandwidth.
Preconcentration and measurement of trace Amitriptyline hydrochloride in water samples using magnetic nanoparticles with dispersive solid‐phase extraction
Authors: Amin Arghavan , Moghimi Ali
Published: December 2023

In the separation and determination of trace amounts of drugs in aqueous samples, there is a major challenge in synthesizing highly efficient, cost‐effective, and easy‐to‐use adsorbents based on natural polymers, which are also biocompatible and biodegradable. In the proposed method, magnetite nanoparticles (Fe3O4) on chitosan (as the carrier) modified with β‐cyclodextrin (BCD) were used as a suitable adsorbent for the pre‐concentration and solid‐phase extraction of trace amounts of Amitriptyline HCl (hydrochloride). Ultraviolet spectrophotometer (λ = 236 nm) was the main instrument used for analyte detection and quantification. Moreover, X‐ray diffraction, Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy, Field Emission Scanning Electron Microscopy, and Energy‐Dispersive X‐ray were used for the identification and characterization of the structure and morphology of the adsorbent and to establish the formation of the synthesized magnetic nanosorbents, as well as to confirm the analyte binding to the adsorbent. Experimental variables affecting the extraction/pre‐concentration and determination of the analyte were investigated and optimized; pH of the sample solution, the amount of NaCl salt (in terms of ionic strength of the solution), the amount of adsorbent, temperature, adsorption time, and volume of the eluent (methanol) were the optimized parameters. Finally, the method was successfully applied for the determination of spiked Amitriptyline hydrochloride (HCl) in tap water and human urine samples. Also, High‐Performance Liquid Chromatography was performed on the aqueous samples to compare the proposed method with the USP (the United States Pharmacopeia) standard method of Amitriptyline HCl assay and after performing a t‐test (confidence level of 95%), no significant difference was observed between the two methods. High accuracy and precision (RSD = 3.91%), High analysis speed, few limitations, low expenses, pure extracted analyte, and low waste were the advantages of this method. This method was also compatible with many existing device methods. Under the optimized experimental conditions, the calibration graph was linear in the range of 0.183 to 50 mg.L−1 with a correlation coefficient of 0.996. RSD of the method was 3.91%, the limit of detection was 37.8 µg.L−1, the maximum sorption capacity of the adsorbent for Amitriptyline hydrochloride was 306.525 mg.g−1 and the preconcentration factor was 3.61. Eventually, the proposed method was compared to other methods that have been performed for the determination of Amitriptyline hydrochloride.
A bidirectional high voltage ratio DC–DC topology for energy storage systems in microgrid
Authors: Banaei Mohamad Reza , Golmohamadi Mohamad , Afsharirad Hadi
Published: December 2023

This study proposes a bidirectional DC–DC converter with low voltage stress on its semiconductor elements and high voltage gain. Bidirectional DC–DC converters play a crucial role in DC microgrid systems, and they have been used for many applications such as power flow management, battery storage systems, voltage regulation, and electric vehicle (EV) charging systems. This paper proposes a novel non‐isolated, bidirectional DC–DC converter with an improved voltage gain conversion ratio. In the structure of the proposed converter, the coupled inductor provides high voltage gain and is employed to reduce the overall voltage stress across the main switches. Additionally, a filter inductor on the input‐low voltage side of the converter reduces current ripple. In addition, a single switch is used in boost mode, which simplifies control of the converter. Furthermore, two power switches receive simultaneous pulses for adjusting the buck stage voltage gain. Also, in the following, the mathematical calculations and the small signal analysis for the proposed converter are provided. Furthermore, a 200 W prototype is finally implemented, and its results are validated by the theoretical analysis.
Adaptive second order sliding mode control of an oscillating water column
Authors: Mosquera Facundo D. , Evangelista Carolina A. , Puleston Paul F. , Ringwood John V.
Published: December 2023

The energy from waves has a vast untapped potential to contribute to renewable energy supply and diversification. For that reason, wave energy conversion systems have been a topical research area in recent years. In particular, harnessing wave energy with an oscillating water column converter has proved to be one suitable solution, which has also seen a number of successful deployments. Nevertheless, additional research is required for this technology in order to reach full commercial maturity and economic performance. This paper proposes an adaptive second order sliding mode controller to maximise the converted energy. In particular, the proposed adaptive control setup maintains the sliding mode robust features, while reducing high frequency oscillations and abrupt control actions produced by fixed‐gain algorithms. A comparison of energy generation performance shows better energy conversion efficiency of the proposed control strategy over standard speed regulation control strategies, even considering air compression dynamics and hydrodynamics in the tests.
Revealing ringed galaxies in group environments
Authors: Fernandez Julia , Alonso Sol , Mesa Valeria , Duplancic Fernanda
Published: December 2023

Aims. We explore galaxies with ringed structures inhabiting poor and rich groups with the aim of assessing the effects of local density environments on ringed galaxy properties.

Methods. We identified galaxies with inner, outer, nuclear, inner+outer (inner and outer rings combined), and partial rings that reside in groups by cross-correlating a sample of ringed galaxies with a group catalog obtained from Sloan Digital Sky Survey (SDSS). The resulting sample was divided based on group richness, with groups having 3 ≤ Nrich ≤ 10 members classified as poor, while groups having 11 ≤ Nrich ≤ 50 were classified as rich. To quantify the effects of rings and the role of local density environment on galaxy properties, we constructed a suitable control sample for each catalog of ringed galaxies in poor and rich groups, consisting of non-ringed galaxies with similar values for the redshift, magnitude, morphology, group masses, and environmental density distributions as those of ringed ones. We explored the occurrence of ringed galaxies in poor and rich groups and analyzed several galaxy properties, such as star formation activity, stellar populations, and colors, with respect to the corresponding comparison samples.

Results. We obtained a sample of 637 ringed galaxies residing in groups. We found that about 76% of these galaxies inhabit poor groups, whereas only about 24% are present in rich groups. Inner rings are prevalent in both rich and poor groups, while nuclear rings are the least common in both groups. Regarding the control sample, about 81% galaxies are found in poor groups and about 19% in rich ones. We find that the percentages of ringed galaxies with bar structures are similar, regardless of whether the group is rich or poor. In addition, ringed galaxies inhabiting groups display a reduction in their star formation activity and aged stellar populations, compared to non-ringed ones in the corresponding control samples. However, the star formation rate is higher for nuclear rings in poor groups than for other types. This disparity may stem from the environmental influence on the internal processes of galaxies, either enhancing or diminishing star formation. Ringed galaxies also show an excess of red colors and tend to populate the green valley and the red sequence of color-magnitude and color-color diagrams, with a surplus of galaxies in the red sequence, while non-ringed galaxies are found in the green valley and the blue region. These trends are more significant in galaxies with ringed structures residing in rich groups. Our findings provide valuable insights into the relationship between ringed structures and their surrounding environments, paving the way for further explorations in this area of study.