bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Highly tough, crack‐resistant and self‐healable piezo‐ionic skin enabled by dynamic hard domains with mechanosensitive ionic channel
Authors: Wang XueBin , Liu Tong , Sun FuYao , Zhang Jingyi , Yao BoWen , Xu JianHua , Fu JiaJun 
Published: August 2024

AbstractRobust and reliable piezo‐ionic materials that are both crack resistant and self‐healable like biological skin hold great promise for applications inflexible electronics and intelligent systems with prolonged service lives. However, such a combination of high toughness, superior crack resistance, autonomous self‐healing and effective control of ion dynamics is rarely seen in artificial iontronic skin because these features are seemingly incompatible in materials design. Here, we resolve this perennial mismatch through a molecularly engineered strategy of implanting carboxyl‐functionalized groups into the dynamic hard domain structure of synthesized poly(urethane‐urea). This design provides an ultra‐high fracture energy of 211.27 kJ m−2 that is over 123.54 times that of tough human skin, while maintaining skin‐like stretchability, elasticity, and autonomous self‐healing with a 96.40% healing efficiency. Moreover, the carboxyl anion group allows the dynamic confinement of ionic fluids though electrostatic interaction, thereby ensuring a remarkable pressure sensitivity of 7.03 kPa−1 for the tactile sensors. As such, we successfully demonstrated the enormous potential ability of this skin‐like piezo‐ionic sensor for biomedical monitoring and robotic item identification, which indicates promising future uses in flexible electronics and human–machine interactions.
Out‐of‐plane response of prefabricated concrete shear walls connected via grouted sleeves
Authors: Xue Weichen , Huang Qian , Xu Zhijun , Yu Jiayin , Li Ya 
Published: August 2024

AbstractThe out‐of‐plane response of prefabricated (precast) concrete shear walls (PWs) are usually neglected in the structural designs. However, because of the relatively low stiffness and inevitable deformation of slabs, the out‐of‐plane behavior of PWs could influence the in‐plane response by causing premature failure or stability problems and affect the overall structural performance. This issue becomes significant when single‐row connections are employed because the neutral axial is shifted toward the compression side and the out‐of‐plane capacity is altered accordingly. In this study, PWs with grouted steel sleeve splices were tested under reciprocating cyclic loading. Both single‐row and paired connections were considered in test program. It was shown that all PWs suffered bending failure dominated by yielding of reinforcement at the bottom, and their load‐carrying capacity, stiffness degeneration trends were similar to the monolithic (cast‐in‐place) reference walls. Under the normalized compression of 0.12, the ductility of the prefabricated walls was 2.62 and 3.07, which was comparable to that of the reference cast‐in‐place wall (2.72). For the case that axial compression was not applied, the hysteresis curve of the PW with single‐row connection exhibited significant pinching. Nonetheless, the load‐carrying capacity of these walls did not exhibit significant drop at the end of the tests due to the lower axial compression, exhibiting high level of deformability. For both load cases, PWs with paired connection exhibited higher energy dissipation than the single‐row connected specimens.
The genus problem – Eucalyptus as a model system for minimising taxonomic disruption
Authors: Nicolle Dean , Ritter Matt K. , Jones Rebecca C. , Phillips Gavin P. , French Malcolm E. , Cumming Russell , Bell Stephen A.J. 
Published: August 2024

AbstractThe ongoing reclassification of higher plant genera (their division, combining and recircumscription) is the cause of extensive modifications to binomials. Many genus reclassifications have been far more taxonomically disruptive than necessary to achieve monophyletic genera. We suggest six rules that should be followed when considering genus reclassifications to minimise any taxonomic disruption and maintain the stability of genus‐species binomials without compromising their scientific validity. Here, we apply these rules to the eucalypts (Myrtaceae), a well‐known group of 840 tree and shrub species that dominate the Australian continent and have worldwide economic importance. Traditionally, most eucalypts have been placed in the genus Eucalyptus. However, the genus‐level classification of the eucalypts has been in a state of flux since 1995, when the segregate genus Corymbia was described, resulting in new binomials for over 100 species, including a number of well‐known species. More recently, the segregate genus Blakella has been described, again resulting in numerous new binomials, and again including a number of well‐known and widely grown species. Here, we demonstrate that the genus‐level classification of Brooker provided far less taxonomic disruption compared to the three‐genus classification of Hill and Johnson and the four‐genus classification of Crisp & al., while still achieving genus‐level monophyly (as understood at the time). We also demonstrate that a one‐genus classification will minimise any future genus‐level taxonomic disruption that would otherwise occur and provides the greatest taxonomic utility for the range of users dealing with this important group of plants as we continue to gain a deeper understanding of the relationships between taxa.
Kampo diagnostic ability is specific in post‐clinical clerkship objective structured clinical examination: An observational study
Authors: Mihara Hiroshi , Watari Hidetoshi , Fujimoto Makoto , Kainuma Mosaburo , Takamura Akiteru 
Published: August 2024

AbstractBackgroundThe Japanese medical educational model core curriculum requires an understanding of the characteristics of Kampo medicine. However, there are few reports on the methods of evaluating the skill levels of Kampo medicine practitioners.ObjectiveThis study investigated the utility of objective structured clinical examination (OSCE) for evaluating the skills of Kampo medicine practitioners, exploring its relationship with other medical skills.MethodsThe 2022 post‐clinical clerkship OSCE assessed the accuracy of Kampo‐related tasks, specifically abdominal examinations. In addition, correlation coefficients and factor analysis were used to analyze the relationship of Kampo tasks with other tasks (three clinical‐reasoning tasks, electrocardiogram attachment task, joint examination task).ResultsMedical students showed significant variation in their ability to accurately assess different abdominal regions. The epigastric region had the highest accuracy (92.0%), while the para‐umbilical region had the lowest (45.1%). Correlation analysis between Kampo tasks and other clinical tasks (clinical reasoning, electrocardiogram attachment, joint examination) yielded coefficients ranging from 0.10 to 0.19, suggesting a low relationship. Factor analysis confirmed the independence of Kampo skills from other assessed medical skills across four distinct factors.ConclusionsSince Kampo diagnostic skills are highly unique, it is possible that Western medicine OSCE tasks alone may not sufficiently assess competency in Kampo medicine. Therefore, it is necessary to consider incorporating Kampo tasks into the OSCE.
Enhanced forward osmosis desalination of brackish water using phase‐separating ternary organic draw solutions of hydroxypropyl cellulose and propylene glycol propyl ether
Authors: Ruzvidzo Kudzai Hamish , Kaur Raminder , Jain Manish 
Published: August 2024

AbstractThis study introduces draw solutions for application in forward osmosis (FO) processes, combining mono propylene glycol propyl ether (PGPE) with the cellulose derivative hydroxypropyl cellulose (HPC). A total of 16 unique single‐solute and ternary organic draw solutions were prepared and evaluated, leading to the selection of three promising solutions for further investigation. Notably, eight of the initial organic draw solutions demonstrated osmotic pressures exceeding 2.4 MPa. The dynamic viscosities of all draw solutions exhibited a significant reduction with increasing temperature. Among the investigated solutions, the 0.25HPC‐3.75PGPE demonstrated the most favorable FO performance, achieving average experimental water fluxes of 11.062 and 9.852 Lm−2 h−1 (LMH) against a 1 g/L NaCl brackish feed solution across two FO runs.Practitioner Points
Hydroxypropyl cellulose (HPC, MW ~100,000) was mixed with propylene glycol propyl ether (PGPE) as draw solutes for FO processes.
Seven combinations of HPC and PGPE produced osmolalities greater than 1000 mOsm/kg.
0.5HPC‐7.5PGPE ternary draw solution achieved experimental water fluxes of 11.062 and 9.852 LMH against 1 g/L NaCl brackish feed solution.
Leveraging the LCSTs of these ternary organic solutions holds promise for improved separation and regeneration processes.
Advancements in Q‐learning meta‐heuristic optimization algorithms: A survey
Authors: Yang Yang , Gao Yuchao , Ding Zhe , Wu Jinran , Zhang Shaotong , Han Feifei , Qiu Xuelan , Gao Shangce , Wang You‐Gan 
Published: August 2024

AbstractThis paper reviews the integration of Q‐learning with meta‐heuristic algorithms (QLMA) over the last 20 years, highlighting its success in solving complex optimization problems. We focus on key aspects of QLMA, including parameter adaptation, operator selection, and balancing global exploration with local exploitation. QLMA has become a leading solution in industries like energy, power systems, and engineering, addressing a range of mathematical challenges. Looking forward, we suggest further exploration of meta‐heuristic integration, transfer learning strategies, and techniques to reduce state space.This article is categorized under:
Technologies > Computational Intelligence
Technologies > Artificial Intelligence
Exploring the convergence of Metaverse, Blockchain, and AI: A comprehensive survey of enabling technologies, applications, challenges, and future directions
Authors: Uddin Mueen , Obaidat Muath , Manickam Selvakumar , Laghari Shams Ul Arfeen , Dandoush Abdulhalim , Ullah Hidayat , Ullah Syed Sajid 
Published: August 2024

AbstractThe Metaverse, distinguished by its capacity to integrate the physical and digital realms seamlessly, presents a dynamic virtual environment offering diverse opportunities for engagement across innovation, entertainment, socialization, and commercial endeavors. However, the Metaverse is poised for a transformative evolution through the convergence of contemporary technological advancements, including artificial intelligence (AI), Blockchain, Robotics, augmented reality, virtual reality, and mixed reality. This convergence is anticipated to revolutionize the global digital landscape, introducing novel social, economic, and operational paradigms for organizations and communities. To comprehensively elucidate the future potential of this technological fusion and its implications for digital innovation, this research endeavors to undertake a thorough analysis of scholarly discourse and research pertaining to the Metaverse, AI, Blockchain, and associated technologies. This survey delves into various critical facets of the Metaverse ecosystem, encompassing component analysis, exploration of digital currencies, assessment of AI utilization in virtual environments, and examination of Blockchain's role in enhancing digital content and data security. Leveraging articles retrieved from esteemed digital repositories including ScienceDirect, IEEE Xplore, Springer Nature, Google Scholar, and ACM, published between 2017 and 2023, this study adopts an analytical approach to engage with these materials. Through rigorous examination and discourse, this research aims to provide insights into the emerging trends, challenges, and future directions in the convergence of the Metaverse, Blockchain, and AI.This article is categorized under:
Application Areas > Industry Specific Applications
A case study of economic development through sanitation interventions in African countries
Authors: Abdou Doaa Salman , Moussa Mona Naguib , Samy Abanoub Samir 
Published: August 2024

AbstractThe novelty of the study is based on the empirical examination of the impact of water and sanitation improvements on economic development outcomes in selected African countries. While previous research has primarily focused on the macroeconomic effects of water resources or broad development indicators, this study takes a more granular and comprehensive approach to unpack the nuanced relationship between various water and sanitation variables and a range of economic development outcomes. This study's aim is threefold: first to examine the influence of different dimensions of water and sanitation improvements (e.g., access, quality, reliability) on economic development; second; focus on the potential mediating factors that water and sanitation interventions affect economic development; finally, propose policy implications for designing sustainable water and sanitation programs to promote inclusive and resilient economic growth in less developed countries. By addressing these questions, the findings of this research paper contribute significantly to the academic understanding of the water‐sanitation‐economic development nexus, particularly in the understudied African context. The study provides valuable, context‐specific insights that can inform policymakers, practitioners, and researchers seeking evidence‐based strategies to foster sustainable development through targeted water and sanitation interventions. This research highlights the positive association between water and sanitation improvements and a range of economic development outcomes, including GDP, employment, foreign investment, and tourism. The results underscore the substantial potential economic benefits of investing in sanitary infrastructure and reliable sanitation systems, making a stronger case for prioritizing water and sanitation as key drivers of sustainable development in less developed countries. Overall, this research paper fills an important gap in the literature and offers crucial insights to promote inclusive and resilient economic growth through water and sanitation interventions in Africa and beyond.
Pati-Salam models with A4 modular symmetry
Authors: Ding Gui-Jun , Jiang Si-Yi , King Stephen F. , Lu Jun-Nan , Qu Bu-Yao 
Published: August 2024

Abstract
The flavor structure of quarks and leptons and quark-lepton unification are studied in the framework of Pati-Salam models with A4 modular symmetry. The three generations of the left-handed and right-handed fermions are assigned to be triplet or singlets of A4. The light neutrino masses are generated through the type-I seesaw mechanism. We perform a systematic classification of Pati-Salam models according to the transformations of matter fields under the A4 modular symmetry, and the general form of the fermion mass matrix is given. We present four phenomenologically viable benchmark models which provide excellent descriptions of masses and flavor mixing of quarks and leptons, including neutrinos. In such models we find that the normal ordered neutrino mass spectrum is preferred over the inverted case, with neutrinoless double beta decay predicted to be too small to be observed by the next generation of experiments.
Non-holomorphic modular flavor symmetry
Authors: Qu Bu-Yao , Ding Gui-Jun 
Published: August 2024

Abstract
The formalism of non-holomorphic modular flavor symmetry is developed, and the Yukawa couplings are level N polyharmonic Maaß forms satisfying the Laplacian condition. We find that the integer (even) weight polyharmonic Maaß forms of level N can be decomposed into multiplets of the finite modular group $$ {\Gamma}_N^{\prime } $$

Γ
N
′

(ΓN). The original modular invariance approach is extended by the presence of negative weight polyharmonic Maaß forms. The non-holomorphic modular flavor symmetry can be consistently combined with the generalized CP symmetry. We present three example models for lepton sector based on the Γ3 ≅ A4 modular symmetry, the charged lepton masses and the neutrino oscillation data can be accommodated very well, and the predictions for the leptonic CP violation phases and the effective Majorana neutrino mass are studied.
Fine mapping of stem rust resistance derived from soft red winter wheat cultivar AGS2000 to an NLR gene cluster on chromosome 6D
Authors: Rivera-Burgos L. , VanGessel C. , Guedira M. , Smith J. , Marshall D. , Jin Y. , Rouse M. , Brown-Guedira G. 
Published: August 2024

AbstractThe Puccinia graminis f. sp. tritici (Pgt) Ug99-emerging virulent races present a major challenge to global wheat production. To meet present and future needs, new sources of resistance must be found. Identification of markers that allow tracking of resistance genes is needed for deployment strategies to combat highly virulent pathogen races. Field evaluation of a DH population located a QTL for stem rust (Sr) resistance, QSr.nc-6D from the breeding line MD01W28-08-11 to the distal region of chromosome arm 6DS where Sr resistance genes Sr42, SrCad, and SrTmp have been identified. A locus for seedling resistance to Pgt race TTKSK was identified in a DH population and an RIL population derived from the cross AGS2000 × LA95135. The resistant cultivar AGS2000 is in the pedigree of MD01W28-08-11 and our results suggest that it is the source of Sr resistance in this breeding line. We exploited published markers and exome capture data to enrich marker density in a 10 Mb region flanking QSr.nc-6D. Our fine mapping in heterozygous inbred families identified three markers co-segregating with resistance and delimited QSr.nc-6D to a 1.3 Mb region. We further exploited information from other genome assemblies and identified collinear regions of 6DS harboring clusters of NLR genes. Evaluation of KASP assays corresponding to our co-segregating SNP suggests that they can be used to track this Sr resistance in breeding programs. However, our results also underscore the challenges posed in identifying genes underlying resistance in such complex regions in the absence of genome sequence from the resistant genotypes.
The KIND Challenge community intervention to reduce loneliness and social isolation, improve mental health, and neighbourhood relationships: an international randomized controlled trial
Authors: Lim Michelle H. , Hennessey Alexandra , Qualter Pamela , Smith Ben J. , Thurston Lily , Eres Robert , Holt-Lunstad Julianne 
Published: August 2024

Abstract
Purpose
Loneliness and social isolation are risk factors for poor health, but few effective interventions are deployable at scale. This study was conducted to determine whether acts of kindness can reduce loneliness and social isolation, improve mental health, and neighbourhood social cohesion.

Method
Three randomized controlled trials (RCTs) were conducted in the USA, UK, and Australia, involving a total of 4284 individuals aged 18–90 years old, randomized to the KIND challenge intervention or a waitlist control group. Participants allocated to the intervention were asked to do at least one act of kindness per week within a four-week period. The primary outcome was loneliness and secondary outcomes included measures of social isolation, mental health, and neighbourhood social cohesion.

Results
There was a significant, albeit small, intervention effect after four weeks for reduced loneliness in the USA and the UK, but not for Australia. Relative to controls, KIND challenge participants also showed significantly reduced social isolation and social anxiety in the USA, and reduced stress in Australia. There was also reduced neighbourhood conflict in the USA, increased number of neighbourhood contacts in the USA and Australia, greater neighbourhood stability and feelings of neighbourhood importance in the UK, and better neighbourhood social relationships in Australia.

Conclusion
Promoting the provision of social support through small acts of kindness to neighbours has the potential to reduce loneliness, social isolation and social anxiety, and promote neighbourhood relationships, suggesting a potential strategy for public health campaigns.

Trial registration
Clinical Trials Registry. NCT04398472. Registered 21st May 2020.
Addressing dermatologic concerns and teledermatology in undomiciled and sheltered populations
Authors: Gallagher Kennedy , Talasila Sahithi , Bistline Anna , Krain Rebecca , Ramani Leena , Jones Elizabeth 
Published: August 2024

AbstractHomelessness in the United States is a significant public health issue, with dermatologic disease being the most prevalent health concern among the undomiciled and sheltered populations. Despite a growing need for dermatologic care, the supply of dermatologists remains insufficient, contributing to disparities in healthcare access for this vulnerable group. This review aims to detail the spectrum of dermatologic conditions experienced by homeless individuals, identify barriers to adequate care, and explore teledermatology as a potential solution to bridge these gaps. A comprehensive literature review was conducted, analyzing studies and reports on dermatologic issues prevalent among the homeless population and the efficacy of teledermatology in addressing these concerns. Homeless individuals face a wide range of dermatologic problems, from common conditions like acne and eczema to severe issues such as cellulitis, leg ulcers, and skin cancer. Drug abuse, domestic and sexual abuse, and parasitic infestations further complicate the dermatologic health of this population. Teledermatology has emerged as a promising tool to enhance access to dermatologic care, showing significant improvements in clinical outcomes and accessibility, especially in underserved urban settings. However, challenges remain, such as the digital divide affecting the elderly and low-income populations, which could potentially exacerbate disparities. Addressing the dermatologic needs of the homeless population requires a multifaceted approach. Teledermatology offers a viable solution to improve care access and efficiency, but additional efforts are necessary to ensure inclusivity and avoid further marginalization. Volunteer-driven multidisciplinary clinics also play a crucial role in providing care, though they face challenges in continuity and resource availability. Future strategies should focus on integrating teledermatology with other supportive services to create a comprehensive care model for this underserved population.
Financial scarcity and financial avoidance: an eye-tracking and behavioral experiment
Authors: Hilbert Leon P. , Noordewier Marret K. , Seck Lisa , van Dijk Wilco W. 
Published: August 2024

AbstractWhen having less money than needed, people experience financial scarcity. Here, we conducted a laboratory experiment to investigate whether financial scarcity increases financial avoidance – the tendency to avoid dealing with ones finances. Participants completed an incentivized task where they managed the finances of a household by earning income and paying expenses across multiple rounds. We manipulated participants’ financial situation such that they either had sufficient (financial abundance) or insufficient (financial scarcity) financial resources. At the end of each round, participants received an additional expense in the form of a letter. To measure financial avoidance in the form of attentional disengagement, we used an eye-tracker and assessed whether participants in the financial scarcity condition avoided looking at the expense letters. As a behavioral measure of financial avoidance, participants had the option to delay the payment of these expenses until the end of the experiment at no additional cost. Results showed no effect of financial scarcity on the eye-tracking measure, but there was an effect on the behavioral measure: Participants that experienced financial scarcity were more likely to delay payments. The behavioral finding corroborates the notion that financial scarcity can lead to financial avoidance. We explore potential reasons for the null-effect on the eye-tracking measure and discuss how future research can build upon our findings.