bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Single‐shot multi‐b‐value (SSMb) diffusion‐weighted MRI using spin echo and stimulated echoes with variable flip angles
Authors: Dan Guangyu , Sun Kaibao , Luo Qingfei , Zhou Xiaohong Joe 
Published: September 2024

AbstractConventional diffusion‐weighted imaging (DWI) sequences employing a spin echo or stimulated echo sensitize diffusion with a specific b‐value at a fixed diffusion direction and diffusion time (Δ). To compute apparent diffusion coefficient (ADC) and other diffusion parameters, the sequence needs to be repeated multiple times by varying the b‐value and/or gradient direction. In this study, we developed a single‐shot multi‐b‐value (SSMb) diffusion MRI technique, which combines a spin echo and a train of stimulated echoes produced with variable flip angles. The method involves a pair of 90° radio frequency (RF) pulses that straddle a diffusion gradient lobe (GD), to rephase the magnetization in the transverse plane, producing a diffusion‐weighted spin echo acquired by the first echo‐planar imaging (EPI) readout train. The magnetization stored along the longitudinal axis is successively re‐excited by a series of n variable‐flip‐angle pulses, each followed by a diffusion gradient lobe GD and a subsequent EPI readout train to sample n stimulated‐echo signals. As such, (n + 1) diffusion‐weighted images, each with a distinct b‐value, are acquired in a single shot. The SSMb sequence was demonstrated on a diffusion phantom and healthy human brain to produce diffusion‐weighted images, which were quantitative analyzed using a mono‐exponential model. In the phantom experiment, SSMb provided similar ADC values to those from a commercial spin‐echo EPI (SE‐EPI) sequence (r = 0.999). In the human brain experiment, SSMb enabled a fourfold scan time reduction and yielded slightly lower ADC values (0.83 ± 0.26 μm2/ms) than SE‐EPI (0.88 ± 0.29 μm2/ms) in all voxels excluding cerebrospinal fluid, likely due to the influence of varying diffusion times. The feasibility of using SSMb to acquire multiple images in a single shot for intravoxel incoherent motion (IVIM) analysis was also demonstrated. In conclusion, despite a relatively low signal‐to‐noise ratio, the proposed SSMb technique can substantially increase the data acquisition efficiency in DWI studies.
Modular test rig for a rotor supported by gas foil bearings
Authors: Sorgec Berk , Liebich Robert 
Published: September 2024

AbstractFoil bearings for high speed turbomachinery are and have been studied in terms of load capacity and lift‐off speed, stability, thermal behaviour and manufacturing. This paper focuses on a modular rotor‐bearing test rig, with which design changes can easily be experimentally investigated. An exemplary design change is undertaken and its effects are studied. Furthermore, a simple procedure is introduced, with which rigid body modes of the rotor can be extracted from phase information derived from experimentally obtained time series data.
Numerical detection of suppression of quasi‐periodic solutions
Authors: Seifert Alexander , Hetzler Hartmut 
Published: September 2024

AbstractDynamical systems can show so‐called quasi‐periodic solutions, which are composed of two or more so‐called incommensurable frequencies. Solving these systems in the time‐domain is not favorable, due to the fact that quasi‐periodic solutions have no finite periodicity, thus it is unclear how long simulations must be carried out in order to capture all relevant information. The time‐solution however fills a toroidal manifold densely. To calculate the invariant manifold directly one can use the hyper‐time parametrization. One can easily extract maximum values from the hyper‐time solution. The trade‐off however is, that the parametrization loses its validity if the quasi‐periodic solution synchronizes. When continuing quasi‐periodic solution branches it is essential to detect an approach to such synchronization points. We present an algorithm, with which one can detect synchronization by suppression of quasi‐periodic solutions, on the basis of a solution in the hyper‐time parametrization.
UPLC‐MS/MS and chemometrics analyses reveal chemical profile and anti‐inflammatory activity of Bienertia cycloptera Bunge fractions
Authors: El‐Gazzar Nahla S. , Shawky Eman , Ghareeb Doaa A. , Mahmoud Fatma A. A. , Selim Dina A. 
Published: September 2024

AbstractIntroductionBienertia cycloptera is a species belonging to the Chenopodiaceae family. According to earlier reports, a unique research study on the phytochemistry and biological analysis of that species was conducted.ObjectiveThis study presents an integrated metabolomics investigation combined with multivariate analysis of various extractive fractions of B. cycloptera aerial parts. This study is the first attempt to explore the anti‐inflammatory metabolites from B. cycloptera, showing its significance as a valuable traditional medicine.MethodologyBy comparing retention times, quasi‐molecular ions, and MS/MS fragment ions with databases and literature references, metabolite annotation was accomplished using ultra performance liquid chromatography (UPLC)/triple quadrupole mass spectrometry (MS). Moreover, the effects of the studied samples on the gene expression of the four pro‐inflammatory cytokines (IL‐1β, IL‐6, TNF‐α, and INF‐γ) using polymerase chain reaction (PCR) and comparing their results by those caused by piroxicam were tested to determine their anti‐inflammatory efficacy.ResultsChemical profiling revealed diverse metabolites, with 62 chromatographic peaks identified across various chemical classes. UPLC‐MS/MS of different B. cycloptera fractions unveiled distinct chemical profiles. Results showed distinct chemical compositions in each fraction, with petroleum ether fraction enriched in sterols and fatty acids; methylene chloride fraction in alkaloids, sterols, and cardenolides; ethyl acetate fraction in alkaloids, flavonoids, cardenolides, and phenolic acids; and n‐butanol fraction in flavonoids, alkaloids, and phenolic acids. Multivariate data analysis illustrated clustering patterns among petroleum ether, methylene chloride, ethyl acetate, and n‐butanol fractions. OPLS‐DA models were constructed to discern inter‐class differences, identifying discriminatory metabolites. In vitro cytotoxicity and anti‐inflammatory assays demonstrated the safety and efficacy of B. cycloptera fractions, with significant downregulation of pro‐inflammatory markers. Further analysis revealed specific metabolites associated with anti‐inflammatory effects, such as p‐hydroxybenzoic acid, vanillic acid, tachioside, ferulic acid, staphylionoside D, humilixanthin, bergaptol, vulgaxanthin I, and portulacaxanthin III.ConclusionThe findings of this study provide valuable insights into the chemical composition and bioactivity of B. cycloptera fractions, suggesting their potential as therapeutic agents and warranting further investigation.
An in vitro set‐up to study Pdr5‐mediated substrate translocation
Authors: Gala Marti Stefanie L. , Wagner Manuel , Nentwig Lea‐Marie , Smits Sander H. J. , Schmitt Lutz 
Published: September 2024

AbstractPdr5 is the most abundant ABC transporter in Saccharomyces cerevisiae and plays a major role in the pleiotropic drug resistance (PDR) network, which actively prevents cell entry of a large number of structurally unrelated compounds. Due to a high level of asymmetry in one of its nucleotide binding sites (NBS), Pdr5 serves as a perfect model system for asymmetric ABC transporter such as its medical relevant homologue Cdr1 from Candida albicans. In the past 30 years, this ABC transporter was intensively studied in vivo and in plasma membrane vesicles. Nevertheless, these studies were limited since it was not possible to isolate and reconstitute Pdr5 in a synthetic membrane system while maintaining its activity. Here, the functional reconstitution of Pdr5 in a native‐like environment in an almost unidirectional inside‐out orientation is described. We demonstrate that reconstituted Pdr5 is capable of translocating short‐chain fluorescent NBD lipids from the outer to the inner leaflet of the proteoliposomes. Moreover, this transporter revealed its ability to utilize other nucleotides to accomplish transport of substrates in a reconstituted system. Besides, we were also able to estimate the NTPase activity of reconstituted Pdr5 and determine the kinetic parameters for ATP, GTP, CTP, and UTP.
Spermatozoa from male mice with infertility due to Odf4 deficiency can fertilize oocytes by in vitro fertilization
Authors: Ito Chizuru , Mutoh Tohru , Toshimori Kiyotaka 
Published: September 2024

AbstractPurposeThe purpose of this study is to confirm whether in vitro fertilization (IVF) with spermatozoa from Odf4‐deficient infertile males (Odf4−/− spermatozoa) can lead to the development of zygotes, which was reported in a previous in vivo study.MethodsIn vitro capacitation and IVF were performed using Odf4−/− spermatozoa in a small drop of TYH medium with pyruvate and glucose, for 60 min or up to 4 days. A capacitation test was performed by immunoblotting using an anti‐p‐Tyr antibody. A sperm movement test was performed using a computer‐assisted sperm motility analysis system (SMAS). An IVF fertilization test was also performed to evaluate zygote production. Videos were taken by a DMi8 stereomicroscope equipped with a high‐speed camera.ResultsIn in vitro condition, Odf4−/− spermatozoa with hairpin flagella harboring large cytoplasmic droplets (CDs) underwent capacitation, about 30% of large CDs were removed from spermatozoa, and the flagella became straight (capacitation test). The Odf4−/− spermatozoa with straight flagella swam forward (movement test) and fertilized Odf4+/+ oocytes, which eventually developed into zygotes (fertilization test).ConclusionsBy conventional IVF, spermatozoa from Odf4‐deficient male mice can fertilize oocytes that then develop into zygotes. These findings can be translated to human males with infertility caused by ODF4 deficiency.
Firefighting Robot Extinguishment Decision‐Making Based on Visual Guidance: A Novel Attention and Scale U‐Net Model and Genetic Algorithm
Authors: Zhao Juxian , Li Wei , Zhu Jinsong , Gao Zhigang , Pan Lu , Liu Zhongguan 
Published: September 2024

ABSTRACTAt present, rescue firefighting relies mainly on firefighting robots, and robots with perception and decision‐making functions are the key elements for achieving intelligent firefighting. However, traditional firefighting robots often lack the ability for autonomous perception and decision‐making when extinguishing multiple fire sources, leading to low rescue efficiency and increased risk for rescue personnel, especially when making firefighting decisions in extreme fire scenes, which poses a challenge. To effectively handle firefighting tasks and ensure operational efficiency, a robot firefighting decision‐making method based on drone visual guidance is proposed. First, we introduce a novel Attention and Scale U‐Net (ASUNet) model to accurately capture crucial target information, including fire location and size, in a fire scene. The ASUNet model adopts an effective multiscale fusion strategy and attention mechanism to enhance the model's performance. Subsequently, based on the results of the ASUNet model, through pixel segmentation clustering and a genetic optimization algorithm, we obtain the robot's firefighting decision results, thereby guiding the robot to carry out firefighting operations systematically. Finally, through numerical experiments, it is verified that the proposed ASUNet model is superior and effective, as the model can perceive important information in a fire scene and extract it well. The use of improved genetic optimization can further accelerate algorithm convergence. To our knowledge, this study is the first to use drone‐based monocular vision guidance for firefighting decision‐making, providing significant engineering value.
Interaction of Hydrazonophenylacetaldehyde Oxime with Acetone: Nitrone versus Oxime
Authors: Panova Elizaveta V. , Safin Damir A. 
Published: September 2024

AbstractDetailed experimental and computational studies of the nitrone 3,3‐dimethyl‐6‐phenyl‐2,3‐dihydro‐1,2,4‐triazin‐4‐oxide (2), which is a cyclized product of an open‐chain isomer 2‐phenyl‐2‐(propan‐2‐ylidenehydrazono)acetaldehyde oxime (1), are reported. The isolated compound 2 was characterized by elemental analysis, powder X‐ray diffraction, IR and UV‐vis spectroscopy, and spectrofluorometry. Electronic properties of 1 and 2 were elucidated by the DFT‐based calculations in water, which revealed that both compounds are pronounced electrophiles. The ADMET properties of the oxime 1 and nitrone 2 were predicted using the SwissADME, which includes the BOILED‐Egg method, and ProTox‐II online tools. Using a molecular docking approach, the discussed compounds were also predicted to actively interact with all the studied herein SARS‐CoV‐2 proteins. The most pronounced activity for both discussed compounds was established with Nonstructural protein 14 (Nsp14_N7‐MTase). Complex Nsp14_N7‐MTase‐1 is characterized by the calculated ligand efficiency scores being close for a Hit.
Synergistic Tri‐efficiency Enhancement Utilizing Functionalized Covalent Organic Frameworks for Photocatalytic H2O2 Production
Authors: Yao Yanchi , Zhu Chao , Liu Renlan , Fang Qile , Song Shuang , Chen Baoliang , Shen Yi 
Published: September 2024

AbstractThe overall maximization of photocatalytic H2O2 production efficiency urgently requires the comprehensive optimization of each step in multiplex photocatalysis. Despite numerous endeavors, isolated researches focusing on single efficiencies hinder further advancements in overall catalytic activity. In this work, a series of imine‐linked COFs (TT‐COF‐X), incorporating electronically tunable functional groups (X = ─H, ─OMe, ─OH, ─Br), are rationally fabricated for visible‐light‐driven H2O2 production via a dual‐channel pathway involving 2e− water oxidation and 2e− oxygen reduction. Combined simulations and characterizations reveal that the synergistic modification of functional groups for electronic conjugation and locally intramolecular polarity collectively enhanced light absorption, charge separation and transfer, and interface water–oxygen affinity efficiency. Notably, femtosecond time‐resolved transient absorption (fs‐TA) reveals that the polarity‐induced built‐in electric field play a crucial role in facilitating exciton dissociation by reacting BIEF‐mediated shallow trapping state. The simultaneously optimal tri‐efficiency ultimately results in the highest H2O2 production rate of 3406.25 µmol h−1 g−1 and apparent quantum yields of 8.1% of TT‐COF‐OH. This study offers an emerging strategy to rational design of photocatalysts from the comprehensive tri‐efficiency‐oriented perspective.
Zinc Affinity and Hydrogen Evolution Trade‐Off for Homogenous Zn Deposition in Reversible Zn Ion Batteries
Authors: Yi Zhehan , Jia Jingjing , Yang Jin‐Lin , Yu Jin , Tan Shandong , Li Jia , Liu Xiaoqing , Sang Zhiyuan , Yin Lichang , Liu Huan , Liang Ji , Hou Feng 
Published: September 2024

AbstractZn ion batteries (ZIBs) are promising for large‐scale energy storage but their practical application is plagued by inhomogeneous Zn deposition. Despite much effort, the harm of simultaneous hydrogen evolution reaction (HER) during plating to Zn deposition, has not received sufficient studies. Herein, Sn‐modified Cu nanowires (Sn@CuNWs) with Sn‐Cu core–shell nanostructure to achieve uniform Zn deposition by zinc affinity‐HER tendency trade‐off are fabricated. Confirmed by both theoretical calculation and practical characterization, the nanowires with high zinc affinity and large deposition sites facilitate Zn deposition, while the enlarged HER tendency harmful to Zn plating is inhibited by Sn nanoshell. Therefore, the Zn deposited Sn@CuNWs anode delivers a long lifespan of 800 h at 5 mA cm−2, and the full cell exhibits a high capacity of 294.4 mAh g−1 at 5 A g−1 and a high capacity retention of 97.8% after 2500 cycles. This work reveals the importance of HER regulation for reversible Zn deposition, which should be noticed in further research.
Boosting Zn2+ Intercalation in High‐Performance Aqueous Zinc‐Ion Batteries with Coupling‐Induced Biphase Interface
Authors: Lu Xiaojie , Chen Lei , Orenstein Raphael , Li Wenxiao , Chi Weili , Peng Mao , Wang Chunxia , Liu Yong , Zhang Xiangwu 
Published: September 2024

AbstractEffectively addressing the trade‐off between fast charging kinetics and long cycle life of aqueous zinc ion batteries (AZIBs) has proven challenging due to JahnTeller distortion and high lattice strain induced by inserted Zn2+ ions in cathode structures. Herein, a hybrid cathode of NiCo2O4‐MnO2 with abundant electrochemical phase interfaces and interface coupling induced defects is developed via a simple electrochemical oxidation strategy to boost rich redox reactions. The formation of Ni─O─Mn and Co─O─Mn bonds promoted the electron transfer between the biphase interface, adjusted the electron density of the material body, effectively alleviated the electrostatic effect between Zn2+ embedding and the main frame, and further maintained the stability of the structure and alleviated the dissolution of manganese. The resulting NiCo2O4‐MnO2 cathode exhibited a high reversible specific capacity of 343.5 mA h g−1 at a current density of 100 mA g−1 and retained 95.5 % of its initial capacity after 1000 cycles at a current density of 1 A g−1. This discovery enriches insights into performance mechanisms at interfaces and paves the way for designing advanced energy storage materials.
Unlocking Auxetic Behavior in Recyclable Thermosetting Foams Enabled by Dynamic Disulfide Cross‐linking Strategy
Authors: Guo Zhongkai , Dong Zhaoxing , Gao Junpeng , Zhang Hao , Zhang Baoyan , Li Min‐Hui , Hu Jun 
Published: September 2024

AbstractAuxetic foams with a negative Poisson's ratio (NPR) have attracted considerable attention in material engineering due to their outstanding performance in seismic and energy absorption. Nevertheless, thermoplastic auxetic foams are compromised by weak non‐covalent crosslinking that diminishes the mechanical strength and durability of foams. Conversely, thermosetting foams with chemical crosslinking, although mechanically robust, face challenges in elaborating auxetic structure and in achieving recyclability. Herein, an alternative approach is proposed to tackle this dilemma by incorporating dynamic disulfide bonds into the polymer network for preparing a thermosetting polyurethane foam with covalent adaptable network. By leveraging the unidirectional multi‐effect compression technique, the topological network reorganization of foam is induced, transforming the initial circular open‐cell structure into a re‐entrant cell structure. This structural transformation endows the foam with stable NPR capability, achieving a minimum Poisson's ratio value of −0.4 within 30% compressive strain. Benefiting from its reinforced network structure, the foam also demonstrates high compressive strength (6.47 MPa) and tensile strength (1.67 MPa). Furthermore, it is recyclable and can be recompressed into thermosetting films. This work offers a straightforward approach to making auxetic thermosetting foams with good mechanical and recyclable properties, which is interesting for the development of high‐performance auxetic materials.
Over 21% Efficient Cesium Lead Triiodide Solar Cell Enabled by Molten Salt Accelerating the Crystallization Processes
Authors: Li Shuo , Zai Shuwan , Wei Xingpei , Yang Fei , Huang Wenliang , Yuan Ningyi , Ding Jianning , Zhao Kui , Liu Shengzhong (Frank) , Zhao Wangen 
Published: September 2024

AbstractHigh‐quality CsPbI3 with low defect density is indispensable for acquiring excellent photoelectric performance. Meticulous regulation of the CsPbI3 crystal growth processes is both feasible and efficacious in enhancing the quality of perovskite films. In this study, the cesium formate (CsFo) is introduced. On one hand, its low melting point can induce the crystallization processes at a low level of energy consumption. On the other hand, the pseudo‐halide anion can participate in the passivation of iodide vacancies, as the formate anion exhibits a relatively higher affinity with iodide vacancies compared to other halides. Consequently, the introduction of CsFo enhances the quality of CsPbI3 thin films by altering the crystallization process and curbing defect formation. As a result, a steady‐state output efficiency of 21.23% and an open‐circuit voltage (Voc) as high as 1.25 V are achieved, with both parameters ranking among the highest for this type of solar cell.
Fe‐Mediated Tweaking of Band Bending and Activation Energy in α‐MoO3 Nano Lamella for Enhanced NO2 Gas Detection Under Low Operating Temperature
Authors: Parveen R. Aysha , Vinoth E. , Hara K. , Archana J. , Ponnusamy S. , Navaneethan M. 
Published: September 2024

AbstractConcern over increasing pollution and ways to mitigate it is in high demand due to the swift advancement of technology and the creation of advanced utilities. Nitrogen oxide (NO2) is a well‐known evolved toxin that poses a threat to human health, the environment, and biodiversity. Therefore, several works are carried to sense the NO2 gas at its trace concentration. However, the majority of NO2 sensors that have been reported have inadequate Limit of Detection (LOD), high operating temperature, and low sensitivity. Orthorhombic molybdenum oxide (α‐MoO3) recently emerged as hotspot in the gas sensing research and noted for its high sensitivity, and distinct sensing capabilities owing to its unique layered structure. In this study, Fe‐doped α‐MoO3 nanosheets for NO2 sensing is prepared, and at a low operating temperature of 110 °C, an excellent sensitivity of 1282% for 10 ppm of NO2 is achieved. Long‐term stability, good repeatability, and an ultra‐low detection limit of 79 ppt are also demonstrated by the manufactured sensors. In addition, the obtained low activation energy of ‐2.9 KJ mol−1 and the high band bending for FM6 supports the highly responsive NO2 detection at low operating temperatures.
Using an interactive simulation tool of national energy and climate policy planning to explore environmental policy options from the perspectives of different interest groups
Authors: Blumberga Andra 
Published: September 2024

AbstractTo reach the Paris Agreement goals, European governments have defined national contributions to the EU binding climate goals and have developed national climate and energy plans for 2021–2030 (NECPs). NECPs are detailed strategies in which governments can flexibly emphasize specific sectors, technologies and national energy policy choices. Every country has built its own energy modelling capacity for forecasting purposes. In most countries, this national modelling relies on optimization tools such as Markal or TIMES. For Latvia's energy sector, a system dynamics (SD) model was built to complement the TIMES model. The SD model deals with an integrated energy system, including the primary energy supply and transformation sector; energy distribution and storage system; and energy demand sectors (residential, tertiary, public, industry and transportation). Sectoral policies are presented in the Stella Architect interface. This study demonstrates how the interactive simulation tool was used in the Environmental Engineering Master level course ‘Environmental Policy and Economics’ as an experiential learning approach. The student assignment involved applying this tool to develop and analyse the energy transition policy package for one of four ideological interest groups: deep greens, bright greens, light greens and greys. Students had to assume a role and adopt its perspective by applying their border‐crossing competence and reflecting on selected policy mixes for that ideology. Various transition pathways, based on different ideologies, illustrate the possibilities for application. Results show that students were successful in fulfilling the assignment.