bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A versatile ratiometric fluorescence nanoprobe for the determination of clonazepam in patients' plasma samples
Authors: Abbasi Mohammad , Jouyban Abolghasem , Ranjbar Fatemeh , Soleymani Jafar
Published: May 2024

Despite the necessity of the study of therapeutic drug monitoring of clonazepam (CLZ), there are only a few fast detection methods available for determining CLZ in biological media. This study aims to develop a cost‐effective and ratiometric probe for the quantification of CLZ in plasma samples. Fluorescent polydopamine nanoparticles were produced through a self‐polymerization process at a pH of 8.5. Rhodamine B molecules were employed as a fluorescent reference material, emitting stable fluorescence in the visible range. The fabricated probe exhibited a specific detection capability for CLZ. The fluorescence emission of the probe was enhanced in two concentration ranges: from 50 ng/mL to 1.0 μg/mL and from 1.0 to 15.0 μg/mL with a lower limit of quantification of 50 ng/mL, indicating the sensitivity of the probe for detecting CLZ plasma levels. The accuracy of the probe is favorable which could be recommended for CLZ monitoring in the biological media. Furthermore, this probe is highly specific towards CLZ in the presence of various interfering agents which is mainly caused by its ratiometric nature. The developed platform showed high reliability in quantifying CLZ concentrations in patients' plasma samples. Hence, the fabricated probe could be recommended as a reliable method for the routine detection of CLZ in clinical settings.
Clearing the Air: Acute Invasive Fungal Rhinosinusitis in Hematologic Cancer Patients
Authors: Pak‐Harvey Ezra , Lubin Daniel , Chen Amy , Willingham Elizabeth
Published: May 2024

Objectives

Air quality has been shown to impact the rates of fungal infection of the airway, causing diseases such as acute invasive fungal rhinosinusitis (AIFRS), particularly in immunocompromised patients. We theorize that patients with hematologic malignancies in units with aging air handling units (AHUs) have a higher attack rate of AIFRS.

Methods

Retrospective chart review identified patients with hematologic malignancy and AIFRS in two distinct and equal time periods between 2013 and 2022, representing the presence of aging AHUs and new AHUs, respectively. Cubic feet per minute (CFM) air flows, AIFRS attack rates, and clinical data were compared between the two groups and statistical analyses performed.

Results

The older AHUs produce air flow of 27,610 CFM and the newer AHUs produce air flow of 80,000 CFM. There were 18 patients with air supplied by older AHUs and 7 patients with air supplied by new AHUs who developed AIFRS. There was a significantly higher AIFRS attack rate for patients supplied by the older AHUs compared with patients supplied by newer AHUs (p = 0.033). The patients supplied by the older AHUs tended to be younger. The white blood cell counts, absolute neutrophil counts, and the mean time to diagnosis did not differ between the two groups.

Conclusions

To our knowledge, this is the first study to examine AIFRS in immunocompromised patients' inpatient environment. Further research should explore whether higher CFM AHUs can decrease this disease among our most vulnerable patients.

Level of Evidence

3 Laryngoscope, 134:4466–4470, 2024
Diagnosis and Treatment of Radioactive Iodine‐Induced Sialadenitis: A 10‐Year Endoscopic Experience
Authors: Li Xiao , Yang Jing , Qu Liu‐Yang , Zheng Dan‐Ni , Xie Xiao‐Yan , Liu Deng‐Gao , Yu Guang‐Yan
Published: May 2024

Objectives

The aim of this study was to explore the endoscopic characteristics of radioactive iodine‐induced sialadenitis (RAIS), and to evaluate the treatment outcomes of endoscopic intervention for RAIS.

Study Design

Retrospective case series.

Methods

Eighty‐two consecutive patients (11 males and 71 females) diagnosed as RAIS from Nov. 2012 to Sep. 2023 were retrospectively included. All patients underwent endoscopic exploration and intervention of the affected glands. The endoscopic features were collected, and treatment outcomes were followed‐up and evaluated through post to pre‐operative comparisons of gland status.

Results

Overall, endoscopic procedures were undertaken for 162 parotid glands (PGs) and 62 submandibular glands (SMGs). Endoscopy showed severe lumen stricture (49.3%) and ductal atresia (23.5%) in PGs, as well as severe stenosis of the anterior duct and ectasia of the proximal duct (59.7%) in SMGs. During a median six months' follow‐up, the treatment outcomes of PGs were evaluated as “improvement” in 23.4%，“lesion maintenance” in 45.1% and “lesion aggravation” in 31.5% of the glands. As for SMGs, the treatment outcomes were scored as “improvement”in 29.0%，“lesion maintenance”in 54.8%, and“lesion aggravation”in 16.1% of the glands. No significant differences of treatment outcomes were found relative to RAI treatment sessions and cumulative dosage.

Conclusion

RAIS is characteristic of severe lumen stricture and ductal atresia in PGs, and stenosis of the distal duct and ectasia of the proximal duct in SMGs. Endoscopy can alleviate clinical symptoms of RAIS and help to preserve the gland function.

Level of Evidence

4 Laryngoscope, 134:4506–4513, 2024
The comprehensive effects of future multi‐scenario land use change and climate change on water conservation in Northwest China
Authors: Zhou Pingping , Wu Hao , Song Xiaoyan , Sun Wenyi , Li Yi , Zhai Jun , Liu Zhengjia
Published: May 2024

Water conservation is an important ecosystem service, which is crucial to the fragile ecological environment and serious soil erosion in Northwest China. However, water conservation has been affected by climate change and human disturbance, and its future spatial and temporal changes are still unclear. This study employed the Integrated Valuation of Ecosystem Services and Trade‐offs (InVEST) model to assess the water conservation capacity of Northwest China between 1990 and 2020. Subsequently, the Patch‐generating Land Use Simulation (PLUS) model and the NASA Earth Exchange Global Daily Downscaled Projections (NEX‐GDDP‐CMIP6) were integrated to examine changes in water conservation from 2030 to 2050. The water conservation quantity in Northwest China had a fluctuating growth tendency between 1990 and 2020, with an average of 816.61 × 108 m3. The water conservation capacity's regional distribution pattern shows a steady increase from northwest to southeast. Northwest China's forest land had the greatest water conservation capacity between 1990 and 2020, at 66 mm, while the water land had the lowest, at 1.46 mm. The water conservation capacity in the 2030–2050 future scenario is less than that in 2020 when the regional distribution pattern is comparable to 2020. Natural development scenario (ND) in 2030 has the lowest water conservation capacity (13.41 mm) under ssp1‐2.6 precipitation scenario, whereas in 2050, the highest water conservation capacity (17.47 mm) is found in same scenario. The ecological protection scenario (EP) has the greatest water retention capacity (18.15 mm in 2040) and the lowest (14.38 mm in 2050) in the ssp5‐8.5 scenario. Our research can help restore and rebuild Northwest China's natural ecosystem and offer a theoretical foundation for the protection of ecological environment and the rational utilization of water resources in the region.
Streamlining quantification of age‐related vocal atrophy
Authors: Al‐Awadi Hamzah A. , Zughni Lisa , Knutson Madeline , Carlson Abbey , Aboueisha Mohamed A. , Jaleel Zaroug A. , Merati Albert L. , Bhatt Neel K.
Published: May 2024

Objectives

Age‐related vocal atrophy (ARVA) has a significant impact on voice, communication, and quality of life. Vocal folds are bowed with incomplete glottic closure during phonation. Efficient quantification of vocal fold atrophy and collection of voice recordings in clinic remains challenging. The primary focus of this study is to describe a novel method for quantifying vocal atrophy and obtaining voice recordings in clinic among patients with ARVA.

Methods

Patients with ARVA were included. Voice recordings were collected during the clinic visit, and acoustic analysis was subsequently performed. A novel mobile application was used to quantify the bowing index (BI).

Results

The study included 10 patients with ARVA, with a mean age of 72.7 ± 6.8 years and body mass index (BMI) of 24.9 ± 2.4 kg/m2. Calculation of BI was feasible with a mean of 9.9 ± 1.8 units. On average, the audio recording took 2.6 ± 0.4 min, and subsequent analysis required 7.1 ± 1.8 min. Mean continuous speech f0 was 212.1 ± 10.1 and 134.2 ± 31.5 Hz for male and female patients, respectively. Smoothed cepstral peak prominence was 8.9 ± 1.5 dB (male) and 8.5 ± 0.3 dB (female), and maximum phonation time between male and female patients was 16.7 ± 9.8 and 13.8 ± 1.9 s, respectively.

Conclusion

We present a feasible and streamlined method for quantification of vocal fold atrophy in the clinic among patients with ARVA. The accuracy and reliability of this new method are areas of ongoing investigation. Quantification of vocal atrophy may help with clinical decisions, including diagnosing vocal atrophy and tracking treatment progress. Moreover, this method may improve research data acquisition without burdening patients and clinicians with additional time‐consuming tasks.

Level of evidence: 4.
Noninvasive Fluorescence Imaging Through Scattering Media Beyond Memory Effect via Speckle Correlations
Authors: Huang Yihang , Zhao Wenjing , Zhai Aiping , Wang Dong
Published: May 2024

The memory‐effect‐based speckle auto‐correlation method has gained significant attention for its ability to perform single‐shot noninvasive imaging through scattering media. Despite its advantages, however, not only its imaging field‐of‐view (FOV) is limited by the memory effect (ME), but also the relative positions and orientations of the reconstructed objects beyond ME are lost. Therefore, an approach that enables the reconstruction of multiple objects or a whole object behind scattering media beyond the ME region while accurately preserving the relative positions and orientations of its sub‐objects is proposed. The method achieves this by directly leveraging the correlation of the collected speckle patterns. Experimental results validate the effectiveness of the proposed method. It not only can reconstruct the image of multiple objects or a whole object beyond the ME region simulated by a digital micromirror device but also can reconstruct the image of a fluorescent object beyond the ME region noninvasively, which is well consistent with the theoretical predictions. The method provides a promising pathway for noninvasively visualizing fluorescent objects behind scattering media without being constrained by ME, thereby expanding the imaging FOV.
Mn2+ Mediated Spin‐Exchange Enables CsPbBr3 Nanoplatelets to Function as Highly Efficient Triplet Sensitizers for Triplet‐Triplet Annihilation Upconversion
Authors: Xu Kunyuan , Li Renfu , Lin Fulin , Chen Dejian , Zhu Haomiao
Published: May 2024

Perovskite nanoplatelets (NPls) have emerged as a new generation of nanomaterials that are promising for optoelectronic applications due to their large absorption and fast yet efficient emission. Particularly, they are also potential triplet sensitizers for triplet‐triplet annihilation upconversion (TTA‐UC), provided that the fast intrinsic decay of exciton can be circumvented. Herein, doping the CsPbBr3 NPls with Mn2+ (Mn2+: CsPbBr3 NPls) can efficiently convert fast‐decay triplet exciton to a long‐lived excited state of Mn2+ through Dexter‐type spin‐allowed energy transfer, enabling simultaneous large absorption and long‐lived excited state are demonstrated. Additionally, similar to the exciton‐to‐Mn2+ energy transfer, Mn2+‐to‐triplet state of annihilator energy transfer is also spin‐allowed and thus highly efficient. These pave the way for using Mn2+: CsPbBr3 NPls as triplet sensitizers. The superior triplet sensitization ability of Mn2+: CsPbBr3 NPls is demonstrated by using 9,10‐diphenylanthracene molecules (DPA) as representative annihilators. 93% quenching of Mn2+ emission and considerably accelerated decay of Mn2+ are observed after the addition of a trace amount of DPA. TTA‐UC measurement demonstrates that benefitted from the long‐lived excited state of Mn2+, the normalized upconversion photoluminescence quantum yield is ≈10% with an energy threshold being as low as ≈0.35 W cm−2. The results shed new light on using Mn2+: CsPbBr3 NPls as a triplet sensitizer.
High‐temperature KCl‐induced corrosion of high Cr and Ni alloys investigated by in‐situ diffraction
Authors: Kingsbery Phillip , Manzoni Anna M. , Ocaño P. Suarez , Többens D. M. , Stephan‐Scherb C.
Published: May 2024

High‐temperature KCl‐induced corrosion in laboratory air was observed in situ utilizing X‐ray diffraction. High Cr‐containing model alloys (Fe‐13Cr, Fe‐18Cr‐12Ni, and Fe‐25Cr‐20Ni) were coated with KCl and exposed to dry air at 560°C. KCl‐free alloys were studied in the equivalent atmosphere as a reference. After exposure to KCl‐free environments, all alloys showed the formation of very thin oxide layers, indicating good corrosion resistance. In contrast, KCl‐bearing alloys showed distinct damage after exposure.
Corrosion performance of different alloys exposed to HTL conditions—A screening study
Authors: Blücher Daniel , Lange Torstein , Sandquist Judit , Saanum Inge , Uusitalo Mikko
Published: May 2024

The corrosion and material evaluation study in (a) water‐based simulated black liquor and (b) water‐based simulated black liquor at super‐critical conditions was successful. The conclusion from the testing program was that the most resistant alloy for the defined conditions is the chromium‐rich carbon steel candidate P91 (UNS K91560). This is a type of creep strength‐enhanced ferritic alloy, which is steel designed to retain strength at high temperatures. The P91 abbreviation represents the material's chemical composition, that is, 9 wt% chromium (Cr) and 1 wt% molybdenum (Mo). Further work is required to conclude the corrosion resistance for the P91 quality at supercritical conditions in the welded condition and to better understand caustic corrosion mechanisms.
High‐Performance Dopamine‐Based Supramolecular Bio‐Adhesives
Authors: Hagemann Maximilian J. L. , Chadwick Lewis , Drake Marcus J. , Hill Darryl J. , Baker Benjamin C. , Faul Charl F. J.
Published: May 2024

The need for wound closure or surgical procedures has been commonly met by the application of sutures. Unfortunately, these are often invasive or subject to contamination. Alternative solutions are offered by surgical adhesives that can be applied and set without major disruption; a new class of supramolecular‐based adhesives provides potential solutions to some of these challenges. In this study, a series of polymers utilizing dopamine as a self‐assembling unit are synthesized. It is found that these motifs act as extremely effective adhesives, with control over the mechanical strength of the adhesion and materials’ tensile properties enabled by changing monomer feed ratios and levels of cross‐linking. These materials significantly outperform commercially available bio‐adhesives, showing yield strengths after adhesion at least two times higher than that of BioGlue and Tisseel, as well as the ability to re‐adhere with significant recovery of adhesion strength. Promisingly, the materials are shown to be non‐cytotoxic, with cell viability > 90%, and able to perform in aqueous environments without significant loss in strength. Finally, the removal of the materials, is possible using benign organic solvents such as ethanol. These properties all demonstrate the effectiveness of the materials as potential bio‐adhesives, with potential advantages for use in surgery.
On Benedicks–Amrein–Berthier uncertainty principles for continuous quaternion wavelet transform
Authors: Wang Xinyu , Zheng Shenzhou
Published: May 2024

The continuous quaternion wavelet transform (CQWT) can refine a quaternion function in the multiscale framework by stretching and translation to achieve an effect of the localized analysis. In this paper, we are devoted to some different types of uncertainty principles (UPs) for the two‐dimensional CQWT. More precisely, we obtain the Benedicks–Amrein–Berthier UP and the logarithmic Sobolev‐type UP for the CQWT. As a direct consequence, we also deduce some significant corollaries, such as the Benedicks UP, the general Heisenberg‐type UP, the general concentration UP, and the concentration logarithmic Sobolev‐type UP for the CQWT.
Hyers–Ulam–Rassias stability of fractional delay differential equations with Caputo derivative
Authors: Benzarouala Chaimaa , Tunç Cemil
Published: May 2024

This paper is devoted to the study of Hyers–Ulam–Rassias (HUR) stability of a nonlinear Caputo fractional delay differential equation (CFrDDE) with multiple variable time delays. We obtain two new theorems with regard to HUR stability of the CFrDDE on bounded and unbounded intervals. The method of the proofs is based on the fixed point approach. The HUR stability results of this paper have indispensable contributions to theory of Ulam stabilities of CFrDDEs and some earlier results in the literature.
Designing and implementing an experimental survey on knowledge and perceptions about alcohol warning labels
Authors: Correia Daniela , Tran Alexander , Kokole Daša , Neufeld Maria , Olsen Aleksandra , Likki Tiina , Ferreira‐Borges Carina , Rehm Jürgen
Published: May 2024

Objectives

This paper describes the design and implementation of an online survey experiment to investigate the effects of alcohol warning labels on alcohol‐related knowledge, risk perceptions and intentions.

Method

The survey collected self‐reported data from 14 European countries through two waves of data collection with different recruitment strategies: dissemination via social media and public health agencies was followed by paid‐for Facebook ads. The latter strategy was adopted to achieve broader population representation. Post‐stratification weighting was used to match the sample to population demographics.

Results

The survey received over 34,000 visits and resulted in a sample size of 19,601 participants with complete data on key sociodemographic characteristics. The responses in the first wave were over‐representing females and higher educated people, thus the dissemination was complemented by the paid‐for Facebook ads targeting more diverse populations but had higher attrition rate.

Conclusion

Experiments can be integrated into general population surveys. Pan‐European results can be achieved with limited resources and a combination of sampling methods to compensate for different biases, and statistical adjustments.
A systematic literature review of clinical evidence and treatment burden in newly diagnosed high‐risk pediatric patients with classical Hodgkin lymphoma
Authors: Flerlage Jamie E. , Waters‐Banker Christine , Fanale Michelle , Beckerman Rachel , Castellino Sharon M. , Liu Nicholas
Published: May 2024

This systematic literature review evaluated frontline treatment burden in pediatric and adolescent/young adult (AYA) patients with high‐risk classical Hodgkin lymphoma (cHL) among studies originating from the United States. Data were extracted from 32 publications (screened: total, n = 3115; full‐text, n = 98) representing 12 studies (randomized controlled trials [RCTs], n = 2; non‐comparative, non‐randomized, n = 7; observational, n = 3). High‐risk disease definitions varied across studies. Five‐year event‐free survival (EFS)/progression‐free survival (PFS) was 86%–100% and 79%–94%, and complete response rates were 35%–100% and 5%–64% for brentuximab vedotin (BV)‐containing and chemotherapy‐alone regimens, respectively. In identified RCTs, BV‐containing compared with chemotherapy‐alone regimens demonstrated significantly longer 3‐year EFS/5‐year PFS. Hematological and peripheral neuropathy were the most commonly reported adverse events of interest, although safety data were inconsistently reported. Few studies evaluated humanistic and no studies evaluated economic burden. Results from studies with the highest quality of evidence indicate an EFS/PFS benefit for frontline BV‐containing versus chemotherapy‐alone regimens for pediatric/AYA patients with high‐risk cHL.
Effect of low‐pressure plasma processing parameters on the surface topography of a CF/PEEK composite for adhesive bonding
Authors: Li Chang , Zhang Jindong , Sun Fengzhen , Liu Gang , Blackman Bamber R. K. , Si Yang , Yu Jianyong
Published: May 2024

In recent decades, thermoplastic matrix fiber composites have become attractive for many modern aerospace structural applications. However, their adhesive bonding remains challenging, so it is essential to study surface pre‐treatments to improve their potential for adhesive bonding. In this study, an aerospace‐grade carbon fiber reinforced poly ether ether ketone composite, which was adhesively bonded with a structural epoxy‐film adhesive, has been investigated. The composite adherends were pre‐treated using low‐pressure oxygen plasma across a range of processing parameters. The treated surfaces were analyzed using scanning electron microscopy, X‐ray photoelectron spectroscopy, and contact angle analysis to characterize the surface topography, chemistry, and wettability of the composite after the different levels of treatment. A plasma treatment power of 180 W for a duration of 5 min was shown to provide the best results in surface characterization and single‐lap‐shear joint testing. Compared to the traditional thermosetting composites, a lower power or/and shorter duration of the plasma treatment was sufficient to achieve good adhesion for the thermoplastic composites. A nano‐etching effect induced by relatively long treatment times was observed, which contributed to the formation of nano‐grooves on the surface of the adherends without exposing fibers on the surfaces.

Highlights

A plasma treatment improves the adhesive performance of the CF/PEEK composite.

Better adhesion is due to enhanced surface activation and nano‐etching.

The optimized parameter for better SLS strength is 180 W for 5 min.

A lower power or shorter duration of PL is sufficient for TPCs than TSCs.
Sampling and misspecification errors in the estimation of observation‐error covariance matrices using observation‐minus‐background and observation‐minus‐analysis statistics
Authors: Hu Guannan , Dance Sarah L.
Published: May 2024

Specification of the observation‐error covariance matrix for data assimilation systems affects the observation information content retained by the analysis, particularly for observations known to have correlated observation errors (e.g., geostationary satellite and Doppler radar data). A widely adopted approach for estimating observation‐error covariance matrices uses observation‐minus‐background and observation‐minus‐analysis residuals, which are routinely produced by most data assimilation systems. Although this approach is known to produce biased and noisy estimates, due to sampling and misspecification errors, there has been no systematic study of sampling errors with this approach to date. Furthermore, the eigenspectrum of the estimated observation‐error covariance matrix is known to influence the analysis information content and numerical convergence of variational assimilation schemes. In this work, we provide new theorems for the sampling error and eigenvalues of the estimated observation‐error covariance matrices with this approach. We also conduct numerical experiments to illustrate our theoretical results. We find that this method produces large sampling errors if the true observation‐error standard deviation is large, while the other error characteristics, including the true background‐error standard deviation and observation‐ and background‐error correlation length‐scales, have a relatively small effect. We also find that the smallest eigenvalues of the estimated matrices may be smaller or larger than the true eigenvalues, depending on the assumed and true observation‐ and background‐error statistics. These results may provide insights for practical applications: for example, in deciding on appropriate sample sizes and choosing parameters for matrix reconditioning techniques.
Post‐processing output from ensembles with and without parametrised convection, to create accurate, blended, high‐fidelity rainfall forecasts
Authors: Gascón Estíbaliz , Montani Andrea , Hewson Tim D.
Published: May 2024

Flash flooding is a significant societal problem, but related precipitation forecasts are often poor. To address, one can try to use output from convection‐parametrising (global) ensembles, post‐processed to forecast at point‐scale, or convection‐resolving limited area ensembles. The new methodology described here combines both. We apply “ecPoint‐rainfall” post‐processing to the ECMWF global ensemble. Alongside we use 2.2 km COSMO LAM ensemble output (centred on Italy), and also post‐process that, using a scale‐selective neighbourhood approach to compensate for insufficient members and to preserve consistently forecast local details. The two resulting scale‐compatible components then undergo lead‐time‐weighted blending, to create the final probabilistic 6 h rainfall forecasts. Product creation for forecasters, in this way, constituted the “Italy Flash Flood use case” within the EU‐funded MISTRAL project; real‐time delivery of open access products is ongoing. One year of verification shows that, of the five components (2 raw, 2 post‐processed and blended), ecPoint is the most skilful. The post‐processed COSMO ensemble adds most value to summer convective events in the evening, when the global model has an underprediction bias. In two typical heavy rainfall case studies we observed underestimation of the largest point totals in the raw ECMWF ensemble, and overestimation in the raw COSMO ensemble. However, ecPoint elevated the ECMWF maxima and highlighted best the most affected areas and merged products seemed to be the most skilful of all. Even though our LAM post‐processing does not include (or arguably need) bias‐correction, this study still provides a unique blueprint for successfully combining ensemble rainfall forecasts from global and LAM systems around the world. It also has important implications for forecast products as global ensembles move ever closer to having convection‐permitting resolution.
Optimization of CMIP6 models for simulation of summer monsoon rainfall over India by analysis of variance
Authors: Kulkarni Akshay , Raju P. V. S. , Ashrit Raghavendra , Sagalgile Archana , Singh Bhupendra Bahadur , Prasad Jagdish
Published: May 2024

The advent of weather and climate models has equipped us to forecast or project monsoon rainfall patterns over various spatiotemporal scales; however, utilizing a single model is not usually sufficient to yield accurate projection due to the inherent uncertainties associated with the individual models. An ensemble of models or model runs is often used for better projections as a multimodel ensemble (MME). This study analyzes the accuracy of MME in simulating the Indian summer monsoon rainfall (ISMR) variability using Coupled Model Intercomparison Project Phase 6 (CMIP6) simulations. The results highlighted that although the MME primarily reproduces the observed pattern and annual cycle of rainfall, significant biases are noted over homogeneous meteorological regions of India, except northeast India. To overcome this issue, an analysis of variance (ANOVA) and post hoc statistical tests are employed to identify a group of models for which the modified MME gives a better estimate of rainfall and reduces the bias significantly. Our findings underscore the potential of ANOVA and post hoc tests as a practical approach to enhancing the accuracy of multimodel ensemble rainfall for the assessment of model projections.
Recent advances in multifunctional electrochromic devices
Authors: Yu Xin , Guo Pengzhi , Chen Jingwei , Li Shaohui , Li Haizeng
Published: May 2024

Electrochromic (EC) technology has been regarded as a promising energy‐saving technology in various applications, including smart windows, displays, thermal management, rear views, etc. Benefiting from the progress in electrochromic material synthesis, electrochromic electrode fabrication, and electrochromic device configuration design, the focus in electrochromic community has gradually shifted to multifunctional electrochromic devices (ECDs) in the era of Internet of Things. Multifunctional ECDs, such as electrochromic energy storage devices, multi‐color displays, deformable ECDs, smart windows, etc. have been showcased the ability to expand potential applications. In this review, the available device configurations, performance indexes and advanced characterization techniques for multifunctional ECDs are introduced and classified accordingly. The applications of multifunctional ECDs for energy storage, multicolor displays, deformable devices, self‐chargeable devices, smart windows, actuators, etc., are exemplified. The future development trends and perspectives of multifunctional ECDs are also overlooked. The aim of this review is to guide and inspire further efforts in the exploration of novel and advanced multifunctional ECDs.
Semiparametric estimation of average treatment effects in observational studies
Authors: Wang Jun , Guo Yujiao
Published: May 2024

We propose a semiparametric method to estimate average treatment effects in observational studies based on the assumption of unconfoundedness. Assume that the propensity score model and outcome model are a general single index model, which are estimated by the kernel method and the unknown index parameter is estimated via linearized maximum rank correlation method. The proposed estimator is computationally tractable, allows for large dimension covariates and not involves the approximation of link functions. We showed that the proposed estimator is consistent and asymptotically normally distributed. In general, the proposed estimator is superior to existing methods when the model is incorrectly specified. We also provide an empirical analysis on the average treatment effect and average treatment effect on the treated of 401(k) eligibility on net financial assets.
Which direction for stakeholder capitalism? Approaches and reporting towards POP accounting
Authors: Biancone Paolo Pietro , Secinaro Silvana , Brescia Valerio , Calandra Davide
Published: May 2024

Our study uncovers the evolving landscape of stakeholder capitalism. This paradigm recognises the intrinsic value of capital among diverse stakeholders and underscores the importance of engaging them in the long‐term value‐generation process. Through bibliometric analysis, we explore the multifaceted nature of stakeholder capitalism, its historical evolution, and the current debates surrounding its implementation, particularly in social reporting and integrated performance representation. Our findings illuminate the growing emphasis on POP accounting as a potential bridge between traditional shareholder‐centric models and a more inclusive stakeholder‐oriented approach. POP accounting emerges as a vital tool for demystifying complex financial data, offering a transparent, accessible narrative that resonates with broader stakeholders. By integrating insights from various sectors and geographical regions, this paper sheds light on the practical implications of adopting POP accounting within stakeholder capitalism. It suggests it could catalyse a more democratic, transparent, and sustainable corporate governance framework. Our research contributes to the ongoing corporate responsibility and governance discourse, providing actionable insights for businesses, policymakers, and academics committed to fostering an equitable, stakeholder‐inclusive future.
Understanding the Strong Apparent Injection Dependence of Carrier Lifetimes in Doped Polycrystalline Silicon Passivated Wafers
Authors: Basnet Rabin , Yan Di , Phang Pheng , Truong Thien , Kang Di , Shen Heping , Macdonald Daniel
Published: May 2024

This study investigates the injection dependence of carrier lifetimes of p‐ and n‐type samples passivated by doped‐polycrystalline silicon (poly‐Si) (p+ and n+ poly‐Si) contacts. A strong apparent injection dependence of the carrier lifetimes is observed in p‐n junction samples (p+ poly‐Si on n‐type or n+ poly‐Si on p‐type) but no injection dependence is observed in high‐low junction samples (p+ poly‐Si on p‐type or n+ poly‐Si on n‐type). Further, photoluminescence images captured at two illumination intensities of 0.05 and 0.87 suns reveal that edge recombination contributed the strong apparent injection dependence in p‐n junction samples. Furthermore, this apparent injection dependence increases as the sample size is reduced, and as the sheet resistance of the doped poly‐Si contacts is decreased, allowing more effective transport of minority carriers to the recombination‐active edge regions.
Exploring the Interactions at the Interface: Tailoring Carbazole‐Based Self‐Assembled Molecules with Varying Functional Groups for Enhancing the Performance of Inverted Perovskite Solar Cells
Authors: González Dora A. , Puerto Galvis Carlos E. , Li Wenhui , Méndez Maria , Sánchez José G. , Martínez‐Ferrero Eugenia , Palomares Emilio
Published: May 2024

Four different carbazole‐based self‐assembled molecules (SAMs) with different terminal groups have been designed and synthesized as hole‐selective contacts for inverted perovskite solar cells to investigate their interfacial interactions and, consequently, the performance of the devices. Using the carbazole core as a reference, the effect of the thiophen‐2‐yl phenyl, or the hydroxymethyl phenyl attached to the core through a phenyl moiety, with that of the thiophene directly linked to the carbazole is compared. These new SAMs have been successfully synthesized using cost‐effective starting materials and a straightforward synthetic method, eliminating the need for expensive and complex purification processes. Subsequently, they have been applied as efficient hole‐selective contact in inverted perovskite solar cells, leading to an outstanding power conversion efficiency of 19.67% in the case of SAM5, containing a carbazole‐core substituted with double 2‐phenylthiophene side arms as functional group. The detailed characterization of the interface and the charge kinetics has allowed to determine the effect of each substituent.
Using seasonal oscillations in fin ray microchemistry to chemically age Lake Sturgeon
Authors: Taylor Alaina A. , Loeppky Alison R. , Stadig Margaret H. , Anderson W. Gary
Published: May 2024

Objective

Nonlethally sampled pectoral fin rays are commonly used as aging structures for Lake Sturgeon Acipenser fulvescens, but they tend to underestimate the true age in older, slow-growing individuals (age > 14 years). Current aging practices involve counting bands along the structure, which are construed as annuli. Oscillations of certain trace elements corresponding with annuli have been seen across various fish species, with patterns continuing to the marginal edge of hard structures. This study explored the aging of fin rays by using microchemistry patterns in Lake Sturgeon of known age (n = 94; ages 5–21) to determine the potential use of this method as an alternative or supplementary aging technique.

Methods

Elements were chosen for age determination analysis by examining the relationship between profile minima/maxima and visually interpreted annuli. Fish were assigned ages using three different methods: (1) traditional interpretation (counting annuli along the structure), (2) chemical interpretation (examination of seasonal variations in elemental profiles with visually identified annuli), and (3) a statistical model (multivariate multiple changepoint analysis with finite differencing using raw elemental profiles).

Result

Mean absolute differences between age estimates and known age were significantly higher for the traditional interpretation method than for the chemical interpretation method. The mean coefficient of variation in estimated age was 11.14% for the traditional interpretation method and 4.04% for the chemical interpretation method. The changepoint model was able to correctly classify age for 100% of the samples within ±1 year in one population (ages 5–8) but could not classify samples from the second population (ages 12–21).

Conclusion

Our results suggest that chemical aging techniques could provide more reliable age estimates for juvenile and subadult Lake Sturgeon when fin rays are the only aging option. Further work is required to determine the applicability of the model for assigning ages to older fish and for use with different populations and structures.
Low‐concentration imiquimod treatment promotes enhanced skin barrier functions through epidermal melanization reaction regulation
Authors: Lin Tzu‐Kai , Tsai Chia‐Lun , Tsai Bruce Chi‐Kang , Kuo Chia‐Hua , Ho Tsung‐Jung , Hsieh Dennis Jine‐Yuan , Kuo Wei‐Wen , Huang Chih‐Yang
Published: May 2024

The primary function of the skin is to form a mechanical, permeability, antimicrobial, and ultraviolet radiation barrier, which is essential for maintaining physiological homeostasis. Our previous studies demonstrated that cutaneous pigmentation could promote skin barrier function in addition to providing anti‐ultraviolet irradiation defense. The present study aimed to develop a new regimen that enhances skin barrier function by regulating skin pigmentation using low‐concentration imiquimod. Results showed that topical application of low‐concentration imiquimod effectively induced skin hyperpigmentation in the dorsal skin and external ear of mice without inducing inflammatory cell infiltration. An in vitro study also revealed that low‐concentration imiquimod did not induce any cytotoxic effects on melanoma cells but triggered excessive melanin synthesis. In coculture systems, low‐concentration imiquimod was noted to increase tyrosinase activity in a broader cellular context, revealing the potential role of neighboring cells in melanin production. The next‐generation sequencing result indicated that PKCη and Dnm3 might regulate melanin synthesis and release during imiquimod treatment. Overall, our study presents new insights into the regulation of melanin production by low‐concentration imiquimod, both in a mice model and cultured cells. Furthermore, our study highlights the potential benefits of imiquimod in promoting melanin synthesis without causing skin disruptions or inducing inflammation, validating its potential to serve as a method for enhancing skin barrier functions by regulating the epidermal melanization reaction.
Future of durum wheat research and breeding: Insights from early career researchers
Authors: Peters Haugrud Amanda R. , Achilli Ana Laura , Martínez‐Peña Raquel , Klymiuk Valentyna
Published: May 2024

Durum wheat (Triticum turgidum ssp. durum) is globally cultivated for pasta, couscous, and bulgur production. With the changing climate and growing world population, the need to significantly increase durum production to meet the anticipated demand is paramount. This review summarizes recent advancements in durum research, encompassing the exploitation of existing and novel genetic diversity, exploration of potential new diversity sources, breeding for climate‐resilient varieties, enhancements in production and management practices, and the utilization of modern technologies in breeding and cultivar development. In comparison to bread wheat (T. aestivum), the durum wheat community and production area are considerably smaller, often comprising many small‐family farmers, notably in African and Asian countries. Public breeding programs such as the International Maize and Wheat Improvement Center (CIMMYT) and the International Center for Agricultural Research in the Dry Areas (ICARDA) play a pivotal role in providing new and adapted cultivars for these small‐scale growers. We spotlight the contributions of these and others in this review. Additionally, we offer our recommendations on key areas for the durum research community to explore in addressing the challenges posed by climate change while striving to enhance durum production and sustainability. As part of the Wheat Initiative, the Expert Working Group on Durum Wheat Genomics and Breeding recognizes the significance of collaborative efforts in advancing toward a shared objective. We hope the insights presented in this review stimulate future research and deliberations on the trajectory for durum wheat genomics and breeding.
Variable PFAS removal by adsorbent media with sufficient prediction of breakthrough despite reduced contact time at pilot scale
Authors: Pannu Manmeet W. , Huang Andrew , Plumlee Megan H.
Published: May 2024

One alternative adsorbent (AA) and five ion exchange (IX) resins were tested for the removal of per‐ and polyfluoroalkyl substances (PFAS) from groundwater in pilot‐scale columns for up to 19 months using empty bed contact times (EBCTs) representative of full‐scale treatment. For the six detected PFAS in the pilot feed water, the long‐chain PFAS (perfluorooctanoic acid [PFOA], perfluorooctanesulfonic acid [PFOS], and perfluorohexanesulfonic acid [PFHxS]) were well removed with only PFOA, which is a perfluoroalkyl carboxylic acid (PFCA) eventually breaking through as the media became exhausted. Perfluorobutanesulfonic acid (PFBS), a short‐chain perfluorosulfonic acid (PFSA), was also well removed, whereas short‐chain PFCAs (perfluoropentanoic acid [PFPeA] and perfluorobutanoic acid [PFBA]) were not removed (i.e., immediate breakthrough). Overall, IX and AA demonstrated superior removal of PFSAs compared to PFCAs (i.e., later breakthrough of PFSAs translating to longer media life). Media life varied, ranging from 6 to 15 months before adsorbents reached a significant PFOA breakthrough. The performance of the two adsorbents piloted at shorter EBCT reasonably predicted the longer (representative) pilot EBCT results (within ±20–30%) for the same adsorbents following data scaling. This suggests that pilot‐scale testing may be conducted at a faster pace and therefore more economically.

Practitioner Points

Long‐chain PFAS (PFOA, PFOS, and PFHxS) were well removed by five ion exchange and one alternative adsorbent tested herein.

One short‐chain PFAS (PFBS) was well removed with no removal of two other short‐chain PFAS (PFBA and PFPeA).

Performance of the two adsorbents piloted at shorter EBCT reasonably predicted the longer (representative) pilot EBCT results for the same adsorbents following data scaling.
Artificial Intelligence in Professional and Vocational Training
Authors: Ciavaldini-Cartaut Solange , Métral Jean-François , Olry Paul , Guidoni-Stoltz Dominique , Gagneur Charles-Antoine
Published: May 2024

This chapter explores challenges linked to AI integration in professional training, emphasising the need to question the learning analytics generated during activities involving humans or living entities. The intersection of initial and ongoing training poses a design challenge: making AI tools acceptable for both training and the workplace. This chapter critically examines the nature and quality of the initial data and learning analytics using educational data mining through three case studies of adaptive learning environments. The first case study addresses the challenges of modelling Comté cheese manufacturing. The second case study describes Silva Numerica, a digital forest simulator, exploring how AI, as a learning tool, can contribute to realistic modelling while addressing didactic obstacles. The third case delves into AI's role in automotive mechanics training, emphasising the need for visibility in cognitive inference processes. The chapter concludes by addressing data reliability concerns in AI systems and proposing education and training strategies to overcome such challenges.
Citizenship, Censorship, and Democracy in the Age of Artificial Intelligence
Authors: Matusevych Tetiana , Romero Margarida , Strutynska Oksana
Published: May 2024

This chapter delves into the ethical dilemmas that arise from the incorporation of artificial intelligence (AI) into the field of education. It emphasises the importance of media literacy, AI literacy, and critical use of digital technologies in order to combat information conflicts, political manipulation, and AI inequality, among other issues. Potential threats to citizenship, such as AI censorship and disinformation, are examined in this chapter. Discourse is devoted to the dangers of deepfake technology as it pertains to the dissemination of false information and the manipulation of public sentiment; the significance of comprehending AI fundamentals and enforcing ethical standards is underscored. Notwithstanding the potential hazards, this chapter acknowledges the prospective advantages of AI in the field of education, which encompass gamification and adaptive learning paths. The text culminates by emphasising the significance of AI acculturation in enabling individuals to comprehend the ethical intricacies and arrive at well-informed judgements regarding the impact of AI on democracy, education, and citizenship.
Affordances for AI-Enhanced Digital Game-Based Learning
Authors: Romero Margarida , Lameras Petros , Arnab Sylvester
Published: May 2024

This chapter investigates the dynamic synergy between pedagogy, social dynamics, and technological developments in Digital Game-Based Learning (DGBL), which is enhanced by artificial intelligence (AI). The chapter navigates through educational modifications, learner profiling challenges, social enhancements, and technical considerations, emphasising AI's revolutionary influence. The topic expands on the critical interaction between learning analytics and machine learning, demonstrating AI's promise for personalised and adaptable DGBL experiences. The practical ramifications of real-time feedback in AI-driven DGBL are discussed, with the goal of providing timely instruction and encouraging positive behaviours. Finally, the chapter sheds light on the collaborative evolution of AI-enhanced education, providing useful insights for educators, instructional designers, and developers in creating optimised digital learning environments.
Feynman rules and loop structure of Carrollian amplitudes
Authors: Liu Wen-Bin , Long Jiang , Ye Xiao-Quan
Published: May 2024

Abstract

In this paper, we derive the Carrollian amplitude in the framework of bulk reduction. The Carrollian amplitude is shown to relate to the scattering amplitude by a Fourier transform in this method. We propose Feynman rules to calculate the Carrollian amplitude where the Fourier transforms emerge as the integral representation of the external lines in the Carrollian space. Then we study the four-point Carrollian amplitude at loop level in massless Φ4 theory. As a consequence of Poincaré invariance, the four-point Carrollian amplitude can be transformed to the amplitude that only depends on the cross ratio z of the celestial sphere and a variable χ invariant under translation. The four-point Carrollian amplitude is a polynomial of the two-point Carrollian amplitude whose argument is replaced with χ. The coefficients of the polynomial have branch cuts in the complex z plane. We also show that the renormalized Carrollian amplitude obeys the Callan-Symanzik equation. Moreover, we initiate a generalized Φ4 theory by designing the Feynman rules for more general Carrollian amplitude.
Spinning particle geometries in AdS3/CFT2
Authors: Li Ziyi
Published: May 2024

Abstract

We study spinning particle/defect geometries in the context of AdS3/CFT2. These solutions lie below the BTZ threshold, and can be obtained from identifications of AdS3. We construct the Feynman propagator by solving the bulk equation of motion in the spinning particle geometry, summing over the modes of the fields and passing to the boundary. The quantization of the scalar fields becomes challenging when confined to the regions that are causally well-behaved. If the region containing closed timelike curves (CTCs) is included, the normalization of the scalar fields enjoys an analytical simplification and the propagator can be expressed as an infinite sum over image geodesics. In the dual CFT2, the propagator can be recast as the HHLL four-point function, where by taking into account the PSL(2, ℤ) modular images, we recover the bulk computation. We comment on the casual behavior of bulk geometries associated with single-trace operators of spin scaling with the central charge below the BTZ threshold.