bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Passivation, phase, and morphology control of CdS nanocrystals probed using fluorinated aromatic amines and solid-state NMR spectroscopy
Authors: Buckingham Mark A. , Crawford Robert , Li Yi , Abutbul Ran Eitan , Han Bing , Hazledine Kerry , Cartmell Sarah , Walton Alex , Eggeman Alex S. , Lewis David J. , Lee Daniel
Published: December 2024

Fluorinated ligands with 19F and 113Cd solid-state NMR spectroscopy provides a powerful tool for analysis of CdS nanocrystals, evidenced here for aromatic amine capping ligands that influence the resulting morphology.
1,2,3,4,5,6-Hexakis(4-bromophenyl)benzene-based covalent organic polymers as specific luminescent probes for the selective sensing of nitro-explosives
Authors: Song Xuezhen , Mao Yixuan , Wang Shusheng , Luo Jiayong , Wang Shitao , Qian Yun , Cao Dapeng
Published: December 2024

Here, we synthesized three covalent organic polymers (COPs) for selectively sensing nitro-explosives.
Development of urea-bridged cyclic dominant negative pneumococcus competence-stimulating peptide analogs
Authors: Mehrani Mona , Lella Muralikrishna , Graham Katherine A. , Borotto Nicholas B. , Tal-Gan Yftah
Published: December 2024

A conformational screening that includes ring position, ring size and bridge position was conducted on the dominant-negative CSP analog, CSP1-E1A. The results highlight the importance of including the position of the bridge in such studies.
Aluminum-catalyzed anti-Markovnikov hydroamination of aromatic alkenes with aromatic amines
Authors: Yan Wenliang , Ma Xiaoli , Li Qifeng , Pang Ziyuan , Yang Xiaobo , Chen Yiwen , Yang Zhi
Published: December 2024

Herein, we report a novel Al compound supported by a NacNac ligand that facilitates the anti-Markovnikov hydroamination of aromatic alkenes and primary amines.
Nanostructural investigation of orthogonally stacked mesoporous silica films and their reactivity with phosphate buffer
Authors: Kimura Reo , Chai Yadong , Nakajima Rin , Kosugi Kenichiro , Tagaya Motohiro
Published: December 2024

Two layers of mesoporous silica with orthogonally stacked were investigated to clarify the different pore sizes depending on the position. The dye adsorbed inside the mesopores suppressed the collapse, and the elution occurred from the top layer.
A flexible phase change material based on hydrated salts exhibits high stability and insulation properties for battery thermal management
Authors: Li Jun , Yuan Yingbiao , Wang Piao , Jia Lisi , Ju Haidong , Chen Renjie
Published: December 2024

A flexible phase change material based on inorganic hydrated salts, featuring high enthalpy, flexibility, insulation, and flame retardancy, suitable for lithium battery thermal management.
Solar energy technologies for desalination and utilization of hypersaline brines
Authors: Wu Zhen-Wei , Yang Hao-Cheng
Published: December 2024

This review provides an overview of recent technologies for desalinating and utilizing hypersaline brines powered by solar energy.
Computer simulations of entropic cohesion in reversibly crosslinked polymers
Authors: Karmakar Rahul , Venkatareddy Nayana , Himanshu  , Valsecchi Michele , Maiti Prabal K. , Sastry Srikanth , Kumar Sanat K. , Patra Tarak K.
Published: December 2024

The mass density is a key controllable variable in polymers with dynamic crosslinkers, one that can be used to facilely tune their properties.
Ni/Ce0.8Zr0.2O2−x solid solution catalyst: a pathway to coke-resistant CO2 reforming of methane
Authors: Khatun Rubina , Pal Rohan Singh , Bhati Kapil , Kothari Anil Chandra , Singh Shivani , Siddiqui Nazia , Rana Swati , Bal Rajaram
Published: December 2024

The CO2 reforming of methane effectively produces syngas from two major greenhouse gases, CO2 and CH4. Ni/Ce0.8Zr0.2O2−x catalyst shows outstanding performance, with improved stability from oxygen vacancies and strong metal–support interactions.
Novel settlement inhibition oligopeptides containing β-amino acids
Authors: Umezawa Taiki , Sari Ira Novita , Yoshimura Erina , Nogata Yasuyuki
Published: December 2024

Efficient syntheses of tripeptides containing β-amino acids and their settlement inhibition activities toward two main foulants, the barnacle Amphibalanus amphitrite and the blue mussel Mytilus galloprovincialis, are described.
Comparing radial migration in dark matter and MOND regimes
Authors: Nagy R. , Janák F. , Šturc M. , Jurčík M. , Puha E.
Published: December 2024

Context. Multiple studies on radial migration in disc galaxies have proven the importance of the effect of resonances with non- axisymmetric components on the evolution of galactic discs. However, the dynamical effects of classic Newtonian dynamics with dark matter (DM) differ from MOdified Newtonian Dynamics (MOND) and might trigger different radial migration. A thorough analysis of radial migration considering these two gravitational regimes might shed some light on different predictions of DM and MOND theories.

Aims. We aim to quantitatively and qualitatively compare the effects of resonances and stellar radial migration (churning) in a Milky Way-like (MW-like) galaxy in the DM and MOND regimes. We performed numerical simulations of a MW-like galaxy to analyse the effect of non-axisymmetric structures (galactic bar and spiral arms) considering various parameters of the spiral structure.

Methods. We conducted a two-dimensional numerical simulation consisting of the integration of 2 · 106 stars in a static rotating galactic potential for 6 Gyr. We analysed the changes in the stellar disc caused by stellar radial migration. To study the effects of radial migration and resonances in detail, we analysed the change in the star’s position, the guiding radius, as well as the frequency phase space. We investigated DM and MOND approaches.

Results. The outcome of the simulation shows that the radial migration is much more pronounced in the MOND regime compared to the DM one. Increasing both the spiral amplitude and the spiral pattern speed results in more prominent radial migration. Compared to the DM approach, in the MOND regime, we observe up to five times as many stars with a maximum change in the guiding radius of more than 1.5 kpc during the time interval from 2–6 Gyr. Increasing the amplitude of the spiral structure amplifies this effect. On the other hand, increasing the spiral pattern speed reduces the difference between DM and MOND. Analysis of the frequency phase space reveals that the most prominent resonances in all DM and MOND configurations are the co-rotation resonance with the spiral arms (m = p = 1), outer Lindblad resonance with the galactic bar and spiral arms, and the co-rotation resonance (m = 2, p = 1) with the superposition of the galactic bar and spiral arms, 2Ω = Ωb + Ωsp.
Spectra of standing kink waves in loops and the effects of the lower solar atmosphere
Authors: Karampelas Konstantinos , Lim Daye , Van Doorsselaere Tom , Gao Yuhang
Published: December 2024

Context. Understanding the effects of the lower solar atmosphere on the spectrum of standing kink oscillations of coronal loops, in both the decaying and decayless regime, is essential for developing more advanced tools for coronal seismology.

Aims. We aim to reveal the effects of the chromosphere on the spatial profiles and frequencies of the standing kink modes, create synthetic emission maps to compare with observations, and study the results using spatial and temporal coronal seismology techniques.

Methods. We excited transverse oscillations in a 3D straight flux tube using (a) a broadband footpoint driver, (b) a sinusoidal velocity pulse, and (c) an off-centre Gaussian velocity pulse, using the PLUTO code. The flux tube is gravitationally stratified, with footpoints embedded in chromospheric plasma. Using the FoMo code, we created synthetic observations of our data in the Fe IX 17.1 nm line and calculated the spectra with the Automatic Northumbria University Wave Tracking code. We also numerically solved the generalised eigenvalue system for the 1D wave equation to determine the effects of the stratification on the kink modes of our system.

Results. The synthetic observations of the loops perturbed by the velocity pulses show a single dominant mode that our 1D analysis reveals to be the third harmonic of the system. For the broadband driver, the synthetic emission shows multiple frequency bands, associated with both the loop and the driver. Finally, using seismological techniques, we highlight the possibility of misidentifying the observed third, sixth, and ninth harmonics with the first, second, and third harmonics of the coronal part of the loop. Unless more advanced techniques of spatial seismology are used with many data points from observations along the entire loop length, this misidentification can result in overestimating the mean magnetic field by a factor equal to the period ratio of the fundamental over the third harmonic.

Conclusions. For longer coronal loops it is easy to misidentify the detected standing kink modes for lower-order modes of the system, which can have important seismological implications. To prevent these errors and properly constrain the value of the estimated mean magnetic field, additional observations of the loops footpoints using transition region and chromospheric lines are necessary.
Challenges for Monte Carlo generators
Authors: Reuter Jürgen
Published: December 2024

This contribution lists challenges of Monte Carlo event generators for future lepton, especially linear colliders. A lot of the recent development benefits from the achievements at the Large Hadron Collider (LHC), but several aspects are unique for lepton colliders like beam simulation, polarization, electroweak higher order corrections and resummed QED corrections. We will describe the status of multi-purpose event generators and specialized codes and outline the challenges for these tools until such a collider starts data taking.
Heavy top quark mass in the minimal universal seesaw model
Authors: Panuluh Albertus Hariwangsa , Morozumi Takuya
Published: December 2024

We study the hierarchy between MT , vL, and vR, the relevant energy scales of the Minimal Universal Seesaw Model (MUSM), where the two lightest quark families remain massless at tree level. We also predict the heavy top quark mass, mt′ . We do some numerical analysis using recent experimental data. Our numerical analysis demonstrates that MT is sensitive to the values of the Yukawa couplings. The heavy top quark mass (mt′ ) is predicted to be within the range from 1.4 TeV to 7.2 TeV for vR = 10 TeV.
Reimagining e+e− collider precision luminosity measurements
Authors: Wilson Graham , Madison Brendon
Published: December 2024

Our recent work has shown that a novel much higher granularity forward calorimetry concept can enable much more detailed and precise reconstruction than the baseline designs based on LEP luminometers, along with the capability of electron/positron/photon separation. This new calorimeter concept is designed primarily to maximize the acceptance for e+e− → γγ as an alternative luminosity process, where it serves to define the inner edge of the acceptance (there is no outer edge, as the complete detector is used in the measurement), while continuing to provide the standard luminosity measurement from small-angle Bhabha scattering (SABS). It will also serve as a general forward electromagnetic calorimeter helping ensure hermeticity and detecting individual electrons, positrons, and photons. In this contribution we highlight the Bhabha rejection capability in the context of the e+e− → γγ luminosity measurement and motivate the utility of a Bhabha “mini-tracker” consisting of a few planes of upstream thin silicon detectors. This could further refine the e+/e− polar angle measurement, aid with charge measurement, improve Bhabha rejection (for γγ), and, last-but-not-least, help mitigate the beam-induced electromagnetic deflection that biases the Bhabha acceptance by providing high precision longitudinal vertex information in Bhabha events, which can be used to diagnose this effect of the beam on the final-state electron and positron.
µ−µ+ → νµνµttH amplitudes in the Feynman-diagram gauge
Authors: Zheng Ya-Juan
Published: December 2024

We study the process µ−µ+ → νµῡµ tt¯H with complex CP violating ttH couplings in the SMEFT with a dimension-6 operator. When the amplitudes are expressed in the Feynman-Diagram gauge, the dominance of the total cross section via the weak boson fusion diagrams is manifest. The high energy behaviour is dictated by the higher-dimensional vertices in the dimension-6 SMEFT operator. These properties are not manifest in the unitary gauge because of subtle cancellation among diagrams.
Luminosity Studies for the Cool Copper Collider
Authors: Ntounis Dimitris , Nanni Emilio Alessandro , Vernieri Caterina
Published: December 2024

Achieving high instantaneous luminosity while managing the beaminduced background (BIB) is critical for the successful operation of any future electron-positron (e+e−) collider. In this work, we summarize the first extensive luminosity studies for a proposed linear collider, the Cool Copper Collider (C3), which are originally presented in [1]. We evaluate the impact of key beam parameters on the luminosity of C3, and tune these parameters with the objective of optimizing the luminosity, without a commensurate increase in the accompanying BIB. Additionally, using a common simulation framework, we perform a comparative analysis of the luminosity and BIB characteristics of C3 with those for other linear colliders. Finally, we present preliminary results towards an automatized luminosity optimization scheme.
Cleanroom assembly of the IFMIF SRF Linac
Authors: Chambrillon Janic Kevin , Bazin Nicolas , Carin Yann , Duglué Daniel , Dzitko Hervé , Ebisawa Takashi , Gex Dominique , Jimenez-Rey David , Hasegawa Kazuo , Kondo Keitaro , Kumagai Kohki , Masuda Kai , Molla Joaquin , Phillips Guy , Scantamburlo Francesco
Published: December 2024

In complement to the development activities for fusion reactors (JT-60SA & ITER), Fusion for Energy contributes to the R&D for material characterisation facilities. Within the Broader Approach agreement, different actors from Europe to Japan collaborate to develop and assemble in Japan the LIPAC, a technical demonstrator of a D+ accelerator that will be used to produce neutron by nuclear stripping reaction on a liquid Li target. In 2024, the LIPAC is getting ready for the installation of the SRF cryomodule that will conclude its construction. Started in March 2019, the assembly was paused a first time to solve technical problems on its solenoids. Resumed in August 2022, the assembly was paused a second time after the completion of the cavity/coupler assembly to fix additional issues. In April 2024, the assembly restarted with the completion of the beam line. In this talk, we will present and details the different steps of the cleanroom assembly and how the different technical difficulties were overcome.
Standardized Assessment of Health-Related Quality of Life in Patients with Congenital Aniridia
Authors: Hoxha Zamira , Fries Fabian Norbert , Hecker Dietmar , Seitz Berthold , Käsmann-Kellner Barbara , Náray Annamária , Lagali Neil , Grupcheva Christina , Szentmáry Nóra , Stachon Tanja
Published: December 2024

Introduction Congenital aniridia is a rare panocular disorder that is associated with varying degrees of impairment of visual acuity. The COST Action (CA18116) developed a survey (aniridia-net.eu) to assess patient-reported experiences with congenital aniridia and its impacts on vision and daily life. Here, we correlate the survey responses of German patients with congenital aniridia with clinical ophthalmology data acquired at the Homburger Aniridia Center.

Patients and Methods The patients completed the German-language version of a 20-point ANIRIDIA-NET survey. The survey included demographic information, the most common symptoms caused by the disease, difficulties caused by visual impairment in various life situations, and the frequency of using visual aids in daily life. As for clinical data, best-corrected visual acuity (BCVA) as well as corneal, lens, and glaucoma status were collected.

Results A total of 71 participants, 27 (38.0%) children and 44 (61.7%) adults, completed the questionnaire, with an age range of 28.8 ± 20.2 years (6 – 78 years). Among them, 55 (77.4%) reported daily light sensitivity, 34 (47.8%) experienced dry eyes, 17 (23.9%) had fluctuating vision, 11 (15.4%) reported eye pain, and 5 (7.0%) experienced daily watering eyes. Older patients reported significantly more eye complaints than children (p < 0,001). Notably, patients with more advanced aniridia-associated keratopathy (AAK) exhibited a discernibly lower quality of life (ρ = 0.28, p = 0.027). Similarly, cataract surgery early in life was associated with a more pronounced decline in quality of life (ρ = − 0.36, p = 0.002). Thirty-five (49.2%) patients never needed assistance for their commute to school/work, 27 (38.0%) and 22 (30.9%) never needed assistance for their daily routines at home or various social activities, respectively. Regarding the use of visual aids, 39
(24.9%) reported that they always used visual aids at work or school, 24 (33.8%) during social activities, and 32 (45.1%) during free time activities.

Conclusions Although congenital aniridia is associated with reduced visual acuity, the majority of affected individuals, especially during childhood, report that they were able to manage personal communication and various life situations independently and without significant difficulties, despite their eye-related issues. Visual aids serve as crucial support for them during their transition into adulthood and as they age. Symptoms of congenital aniridia subjects, described by the ANIRIDIA-NET survey, correlated well with clinical findings. Therefore, the questionnaire may provide important information for the treating ophthalmologist for follow-up examination of these patients and improvement in their life quality.
Venous Thromboembolism at Low Risk of Recurrence in Young Women: Stress and Violence Associated with Recurrence. An International Case-Control Study
Authors: Bitsadze Victoria , Nikolaeva Mariya Gennadevna , Mousty Ève , Khizroeva Jamilya , Laurent Jérémy , Ripart Sylvie , Kudryavtseva Ekaterina , Collen Lorris Le , Shatilina Anastasia , Allal Salim , Lyadnova Elizaveta , Fortier Mathieu , Bouvier Sylvie , Chea Mathias , Zainulina Marina Sabirovna , Perez-Martin Antonia , Makatsariya Alexander , Gris Jean-Christophe
Published: December 2024

Background In young women with venous thromboembolism (VTE) related to weak transient risk factors, it remains unknown whether stress levels and intimate partner violence (IPV) are associated with recurrence. The VTE-WEAK study aims to investigate the association between perceived stress and IPV with a recurrence of VTE in women with a first episode of VTE due to combined oral contraceptives, pregnancy-puerperium, minor trauma/fracture, brief surgery, infection or brief immobility, and not using antithrombotic prophylaxis.

Material and Methods We performed a multicenter, international, observational, retrospective study on women referred for thrombophilia screening who were subsequently monitored. Patients were aged 18 to 55 years old and free of high-risk thrombophilia. When a recurrence of VTE was suspected for the first time, the perceived stress level and IPV were evaluated using self-administrated PSS-10 and Woman Abuse Screening Tool (WAST) questionnaires.

Results We monitored 7,754 women over 43,880 patients–years. A first suspected recurrence occurred in 4,772 women, among whom 1,316 had an objectively confirmed recurrence. The perceived stress level and an IPV situation were both independent risk factors for recurrence: moderate stress: adjusted odds ratio (aOR) 1.630 (1.415–2.468); high perceived stress: aOR 10.03 (7.528–13.36); IPV: 1.953 (1.546–2.468), p < 0.0001.

Conclusion The perceived level of stress and IPV are associated with a recurrence of VTE when suspected. The mechanisms and clinical consequences of a possible stress coagulopathy require investigation.
Iron-Photocatalyzed Decarboxylative Oxygenation of Aliphatic Carboxylic Acids
Authors: Denkler Luca Mareen , Shekar Meghana Aladahalli , Bunescu Ala
Published: December 2024

Carboxylic acids, a bench-stable, readily available, and structurally diverse class of compounds, represent ideal starting materials for organic synthesis. In this article, we highlight an iron-catalyzed, decarboxylative, C(sp3)–O bond-forming reaction that takes place under mild, photocatalytic, base-free conditions using 2,2,6,6-tetramethylpiperidine-1-oxyl (TEMPO) derivatives as oxygenation reagents. The reaction is enabled by the ability of iron complexes to generate carbon-centered radicals directly from carboxylic acids through a sequence involving a photoinduced carboxylate-to-iron charge transfer, homolysis, and loss of carbon dioxide. The developed transformation displays exquisite substrate tolerance and was applied to various bioactive molecules. We performed an extensive mechanistic investigation through kinetic studies; electrochemistry, EPR, UV/Vis, and HRMS analyses; and DFT calculations. Those studies suggest that TEMPO plays three different roles in the reaction: it acts as an oxygenation reagent, serves as an oxidant to regenerate the Fe catalyst, and functions as an internal base for carboxylic acid deprotonation. The resulting TEMPO adducts are versatile synthons that can be subsequently utilized in C–C and C–heteroatom bond-forming reactions employing commercially available organophotocatalysts and nucleophilic reagents.

1 Introduction

2 Background on the LMCT Reactivity of Iron Complexes

3 Direct Iron-Photocatalyzed Decarboxylative Oxygenation: Reaction Concept

4 Substrate Scope Assessment of Decarboxylative Oxygenation

5 Mechanistic Considerations

6 Conclusion
Is the Otolithic Function Affected in Patients with Obstructive Sleep Apnea Syndrome?
Authors: Ozses Merve , Mungan Durankaya Serpil , Guneri Enis A. , Öztura İbrahim , Ecevit Mustafa C. , Ellidokuz Hülya , Kirkim Günay
Published: December 2024

Background While cardiovascular and neurological diseases induced by obstructive sleep apnea syndrome (OSAS) hypoxia are well established, the association between neuro-otological diseases and OSAS is not entirely understood. Vestibular and audiological tests have been used to evaluate the degeneration of neurons in the brainstem caused by recurrent hypoxia.

Purpose Evaluation of the vestibular-evoked myogenic potential (VEMP) test findings applied to detect the possible influence on the vestibular reflex arc due to hypoxia in patients diagnosed with OSAS using Activity-Specific Balance Confidence (ABC) and Berg Balance Scale (BBS) scales determination of scores.

Research Design This was a cross-sectional study.

Study Sample Participants aged 18 to 60 who underwent polysomnography due to snoring/sleep apnea were divided into an OSAS, and a control group of subjects were also included. Each group consisted of 20 participants.

Data Collection and Analysis All participants were evaluated with cervical VEMP (cVEMP) and ocular VEMP (oVEMP) tests. The groups were compared regarding variables such as the rate of oVEMP and cVEMP waves obtained, the interval between the waves, and the latency and amplitude. Also, BBS and ABC scales were applied to all participants.

Results The cVEMP (50%) and oVEMP (45%) response rates and amplitudes were significantly lower in the OSAS group. No significant difference was found between the groups when comparing other VEMP parameters. However, a statistically significant decrease was observed in the ABC and BBS scores in the OSAS group.

Conclusion The identification of VEMP alterations in the OSAS group is a clear indication that the vestibular reflex pathways may be adversely affected by hypoxia. Personal rehabilitation programs can be created by evaluating activities of daily living with the ABC and static and dynamic balances with BBS in patients with OSAS.
Lower Gastrointestinal Bleeding (Nonvariceal): Concepts and Technique
Authors: Marri Uday Kumar , Singh Jagadeesh R. , Pal Partha , Modak Shreeyash
Published: December 2024

Lower gastrointestinal bleeding (LGIB) is defined as bleeding from the GI tract anywhere distal to the ligament of Treitz. It has multiple causes, including colonic diverticula, hemorrhoids, inflammatory bowel disease, and neoplasms. LGIB presents a wide spectrum of clinical manifestations, ranging from acute presentations with massive bleeding to insidious presentations with chronic, low-grade, intermittent bleeding. Although LGIB is less common and generally less severe compared with upper GI bleeding (UGIB), approximately 10 to 15% of cases eventually require endovascular intervention. Because of the unique vascular anatomy and potential complications, it often necessitates more specialized endovascular skills compared with UGIB. Embolization of LGIB carries a higher risk of ischemic complications compared with UGIB, as the superior mesenteric artery and the inferior mesenteric artery have a less rich collateral supply compared with the celiac trunk. The management of LGIB depends on its etiology, location, and severity. A multidisciplinary team approach, including gastroenterologists, surgeons, and interventional radiologists, is vital for achieving the best possible outcomes for these patients. With advances in microcatheter technology and newer embolic agents, interventional radiologist plays an increasingly important role in LGIB. Interventional radiologists managing these patients should have good knowledge of mesenteric arterial anatomy, the properties of different embolic agents, and basic principles of superselective embolization. In this comprehensive review, we discuss how to approach a patient with LGIB and the role of the interventional radiologist in these patients. Furthermore, we delve into endovascular techniques and concepts for superselective embolization and various embolic agents used in LGIB.
2024 Position Statement on the Use of Different Diagnostic Methods for Sleep Disorders in Adults – Brazilian Sleep Association
Authors: Palombini Luciana de Oliveira , Assis Márcia , Drager Luciano Ferreira , Mello Luciane Impelliziere Luna de , Pires Gabriel Natan , Zancanella Edilson , Santos-Silva Rogério
Published: December 2024

Introduction The current document represents the official position of Associação Brasileira do Sono (ABS; Brazilian Sleep Association) on the application of different sleep studies and provides specific recommendations for the use of different types of polysomnography (PSG) and respiratory polygraphy.

Materials and Methods The present document was based on existing guidelines. The steering committee discussed its findings and developed recommendations and contraindications, which were refined in discussions with the advisory committee. Adaptations were made based on professional experience, pathophysiological knowledge, and theoretical reasoning, especially to cover topics not discussed in previous guidelines or to adapt recommendations to the context and current practices in Brazil.

Results A total of 55 recommendations were made, covering the following domains: professional requirements for the requisition and interpretation of sleep studies (n = 7); eligibility for different sleep studies (n = 9); diagnosis of sleep-disordered breathing (SDB; n = 5); diagnosis of SDB in special conditions (n = 3); diagnosis of SDB in association with other sleep disorders and comorbidities (n = 3); sleep studies on the follow-up of patients with SDB (n = 9); sleep studies for positive air pressure titration (n = 3); diagnosis of other sleep disorders (n = 10); and sleep studies on other conditions (n = 6).

Conclusion The selection of the type of sleep study should be made carefully, considering resource constraints, clinical suspicion of moderate or severe obstructive sleep apnea (OSA), and individual patient needs, among other factors. It is crucial that health professionals receive appropriate training and board certification in sleep science, thus being able to determine the most suitable diagnostic method, understand their indications and limitations, and assure an accurate diagnosis for each patient.
Altemeier Procedure for Complete Rectal Prolapse: An Operation for all Ages and its Long-Term Functional Outcomes
Authors: Murugesan Thamarai Kannan , Srinivasan Karthikeyan , Pillai Sastha Ahanatha , Ramasamy Villalan , Mikkilineni Bharani Krishna Prasad Chowdary , Sreepathi Venkkatesh , Subbareddiar Padmanabhan
Published: December 2024

Objective The aim of this study is to evaluate the long-term functional outcomes in patients treated by Altemeier's procedure for complete rectal prolapse.

Methods Records of 40 patients who underwent Altemeier's procedure for complete rectal prolapse between January 2013 to June 2023 were analyzed. The median duration of post operative follow-up was 48 months (ranges- 6 months to 10 years). Postoperatively, fecal incontinence, constipation and recurrence were analyzed.

Results The median age was 45 (13-75) years. The male-to-female ratio was 1.4:1. Among forty patients, five patients had recurrent rectal prolapse. Out of forty, nine patients underwent emergency Altemeier's procedure. The median time taken for the procedure was 120 (80-155) minutes. The median postoperative length of hospital stay was 9 days. Three patients (7.5%) had Grade I anastomosis leak. All patients subsequently developed anastomotic stricture and were managed with periodic anal dilatation. There was no mortality. Postoperatively, constipation reduced from 25% to 7.5% and fecal incontinence reduced from 37.5% to 10%. There was no recurrence in our study.

Conclusion The Altemeier procedure is a safe and effective procedure in both elderly and young patients presenting with complete rectal prolapse. It was associated with minimal morbidity and good long-term functional outcomes.
Impact of Endocrine-Disrupting Chemicals, Climate, and Air Pollution on Pregnancy Outcomes: A Scoping Review
Authors: Wesley Shaun R. , Gallo Mary , Apata Tejumola , Dis Jane van , Hollenbach Stefanie J.
Published: December 2024

Environmental pollutants, including endocrine-disrupting chemicals (EDCs), air pollution, and climate change, are increasingly recognized for their potential impact on pregnancy outcomes. EDCs, found in pesticides, industrial chemicals, and personal care products, are associated with preterm birth and fetal growth restriction, primarily through hormonal interference. Air pollution, notably PM2.5, NO2, and O3, has been linked to increased rates of preterm birth, low birth weight, and stillbirth. Climate factors, such as extreme heat, elevate risks of pregnancy loss and preterm birth, with significant impacts on vulnerable populations across diverse socioeconomic and geographic regions. These exposures contribute to adverse pregnancy outcomes through mechanisms involving oxidative stress, inflammation, and endocrine disruption. The interplay among these environmental factors underscores the need for integrated, longitudinal studies to understand their combined effects on pregnancy outcomes better. Future research should focus on region-specific impacts, cumulative exposure, and policy-driven interventions to mitigate these environmental risks, especially in vulnerable populations disproportionately affected by these hazards. This scoping review synthesizes recent findings from 2019 to 2024 to highlight these associations and identify research gaps.
Making death through producing life: Necrovalue and the political economy of death
Authors: Barla Josef
Published: December 2024

This article explores how advances in synthetic biology and genetic engineering transform the relationship between life and death under contemporary biocapitalism. Discussing two cases of synthetically produced mosquitoes designed to combat vector-borne diseases by targeting their own species, the article contends that these organisms function not only as (lively) commodities but also as metabolically working bodies. These mosquitoes, as the article shows, engage in a specific form of labor, termed ‘metabolic death work,’ which aims at the eradication of fellow members of their species, thereby generating a unique form of value, introduced as ‘necrovalue.’ Complementing the notion of ‘biovalue,’ the concept of necrovalue highlights how death is reimagined as a site of value production in molecular biology and beyond. By applying these concepts to the analysis of the two cases of synthetically produced organisms, this article shows how death enters the realm of the political economy in novel ways as capital gains full control over the metabolic and reproductive capacities of engineered life forms.
Social marginalization: A scoping review of 50 years of research
Authors: Fluit Sam , Cortés-García Laura , von Soest Tilmann
Published: December 2024

Despite growing interest in social marginalization, the concept lacks a common and clear definition. Using a scoping review method, this paper systematically analyzed 1121 papers identified in the Scopus and Web of Science databases, spanning 50 years of research. The results show a diffusively expanding research field that covers 17 topics of social marginalization and identifies 12 socially marginalized groups. Health was the most frequent topic, with immigrants and minorities being the most targeted study population. From the extensive body of research, 97 unique definitions of social marginalization were extracted. These definitions were analyzed and synthesized into four themes, and subsequently integrated into a new definition. We defined social marginalization as a multifaceted concept that refers to a context-dependent social process of “othering”—where certain individuals or groups are systematically excluded based on societal norms and values—and the resulting experience of disadvantage. This review addresses recent academic calls for clarity by promoting a unified understanding of social marginalization. Moreover, we provide guidelines for both research and policy interventions aimed at addressing this critical issue.
In-vessel design of a two-color heterodyne laser interferometer system for SPARC
Authors: Hawke J. N. , LaCapra M. , Ilagan J. , Jean M. , Ouellet S. , Silva Sa M. , Zubieta Lupo R. , Irby J. H. , Yao K. , Rosenthal A. , Myers D. , Wender T. , Cario M. , Cykman D. , Reinke M. L.
Published: December 2024

This article covers the in-vessel design of the SPARC interferometry diagnostic system, highlighting unique aspects of the systems design and port plug integration in preparation for “day-1” plasma operations as a critical diagnostic for density feedback control. An early decision for the diagnostic was to deploy two lasers in the infrared wavelength spectrum, allowing the system to have a higher optical throughput. The optimization of the in-vessel geometry for the diagnostic follows a similar approach, focusing on de-risking possible damage to the plasma facing optical components by moving them further from the plasma with an orientation that provides a greater possibility for protective features to be added. The inclusion of in-vessel optical assemblies requires detailed design efforts of custom all-metal parts, designed to remain functional when subjected to harsh operational conditions, in many cases for the entire SPARC lifetime. The details presented here were included in the design to ensure that the assemblies can not only withstand a major electromagnetic disruption or thermal event but also maintain good stability through normal operations. The design also addresses more nuanced effects, such as the transient heat loading of the plasma facing mirrors. Through the utilization of modeling and design tools, these effects were brought into the design and simulation workflow, further reducing uncertainty as the system moves toward system commissioning.
Spatial filtering and optimal generation of high-flux soft x-ray high harmonics using a Bessel–Gauss beam
Authors: Tang Xiangyu , Wang Kan , Li Baochang , Han Jiaxin , Zhang Chi , Wang Bincheng , Lin C. D. , Jin Cheng
Published: December 2024

In recent years, significant advancements in high-repetition-rate, high-average-power mid-infrared laser pulses have enabled the generation of tabletop high-flux coherent soft x-ray harmonics for photon-hungry experiments. However, for practical applications, it is crucial to effectively filter out the driving beam from the high harmonics. In this study, we leverage the distinctive properties of a Bessel–Gauss (BG) beam to introduce a novel approach for spatial filtering, specifically targeting soft x-ray harmonics, releasing with a high-photon flux simultaneously. Our simulations reveal that by finely adjusting the focus geometry and gas pressure, the BG beam naturally adopts an annular shape, emitting high harmonics with minimal divergence in the far field. To achieve complete spatial separation of the driving beam and harmonic emissions, we pinpoint the optimal gas pressure and focusing geometry, particularly under overdriven laser intensities, for achieving good phase matching of harmonic emissions from short-trajectory electrons within the gas medium when the exact ionization level is higher than the “critical” value. Additionally, we establish scaling relations for sustaining optimal phase-matching conditions crucial for spatially separating the driving laser and the high-harmonic field, especially as the wavelength of the driving laser increases. Furthermore, our analysis demonstrates a substantial enhancement of harmonic yields by at least one order of magnitude compared to a truncated Gaussian annular beam. We also show that under accessible experimental conditions, soft x-ray photon flux up to 1010 photons/s at 250 eV can be achieved. The utilization of the BG beam opens up a promising pathway for the development of high-flux attosecond soft x-ray light sources, poised to serve a wide range of applications.
Theory of molecular emission power spectra. III. Non-Hermitian interactions in multichromophoric systems coupled with polaritons
Authors: Wang Siwei , Huang Jia-Liang , Hsu Liang-Yan
Published: December 2024

Based on our previous study [Wang et al., J. Chem. Phys. 153, 184102 (2020)], we generalize the theory of molecular emission power spectra (EPS) from one molecule to multichromophoric systems in the framework of macroscopic quantum electrodynamics. This generalized theory is applicable to ensembles of molecules, providing a comprehensive description of the molecular spontaneous emission spectrum in arbitrary inhomogeneous, dispersive, and absorbing media. In the far-field region, the analytical formula of EPS can be expressed as the product of a lineshape function (LF) and an electromagnetic environment factor (EEF). To demonstrate the polaritonic effect on multichromophoric systems, we simulate the LF and EEF for one to three molecules weakly coupled to surface plasmon polaritons above a silver surface. Our analytical expressions show that the peak broadening originates from not only the spontaneous emission rates but also the imaginary part of resonant dipole–dipole interactions (non-Hermitian interactions), which is associated with the superradiance of molecular aggregates, indicating that the superradiance rate can be controlled through an intermolecular distance and the design of dielectric environments. This study presents an alternative approach to directly analyze the hybrid-state dynamics of multichromophoric systems coupled with polaritons.
Ultrathin electrospun nanofibrous membranes based on poly(γ-benzyl-L-glutamate)
Authors: Souibgui M. , Morávková Z. , Georgievski O. Pop , Hodan J. , Thottappali M. A. , Cimrová V. , Dvořáková J. , Proks V. , Studenovska H.
Published: December 2024

Ultrathin electrospun nanofibrous membranes (NfMs) based on poly(γ-benzyl-L-glutamate) (PBLG) were prepared. Scanning electron microscopy analysis revealed the production of a high-quality, bead-free nanofibrous membrane. The membrane thicknesses, ranging from 1.7 to 4.5 μm, were found to correlate directly with membrane porosity. Raman scattering analysis was utilized to investigate the conformation of the PBLG nanofibrous membrane and to assess the effects of addition of 1 wt. % trifluoroacetic acid (TFA) into the PBLG solutions, as well as the impact of annealing at 70 °C. In addition, x-ray photoelectron spectroscopy (XPS) characterization was performed to elucidate the chemical composition of the PBLG nanofibrous membrane. The Raman and Fourier-transform infrared spectroscopy spectra indicated the characteristic α-helical conformation in both the PBLG solution and the PBLG nanofibrous membrane. Furthermore, a comparative analysis of Raman band profiles proved the absence of TFA after annealing, supporting the hypothesis of TFA evaporation post-annealing, which was subsequently confirmed by the XPS results. In addition, the results from the small punch test revealed a significant correlation between membrane thickness and stiffness, indicating that increased thickness enhances stiffness. This comprehensive study provides valuable insights into the structural and compositional properties of PBLG NfMs, laying the groundwork for future investigations into their potential applications in the field of tissue engineering.
Zwitterion additive-assisted crystal growth regulation and defect passivation for high-performance inorganic perovskite solar cells
Authors: Xu Zelin , Jiang Hong , Huang Xiu , Gao Xiang , Ma Yuhang , Sun Siqi , Zhao Ziqi , Zhang Jing , Huang Like , Hu Ziyang , He Hongxing , Zhu Yuejin , Liu Xiaohui
Published: December 2024

Inorganic CsPbI2Br perovskites solar cells (PSCs) have attracted extensive interest owing to their outstanding optoelectronic properties. Nevertheless, the undesirable perovskite film quality and severe charge recombination dramatically restrict their performance improvement. Herein, we propose an additive strategy to modulate the CsPbI2Br crystallization process and reduce the defect density by adding 3-(1-pyridinio)-1-propanesulfonate (PPS) zwitterionic molecules into the perovskite precursor solution. The incorporation of PPS zwitterion can not only retard the crystal growth rate of CsPbI2Br with uniform morphology and enlarged grain size, but also effectively passivate defects via interacting with the uncoordinated sites in the perovskite film. In addition, the PPS zwitterion greatly ameliorates the energy level alignments at the interface. Thus, the photogenerated carriers are more efficiently extracted, and the nonradiative recombination is significantly suppressed. With these benefits, the optimized PPS-based CsPbI2Br device delivers a champion efficiency of 16.37% with high open-circuit voltage (VOC) of 1.302 V in contrast to the pristine device with an inferior efficiency of 14.26% (VOC of 1.183 V). In addition, the unencapsulated device with PPS presents improved long-term stability by preserving ∼85% of the initial efficiency after 760 h storage in ambient atmosphere. These findings provided important insights into the additive strategy of using zwitterionic materials for constructing efficient and stable inorganic PSCs.
High-temperature non-equilibrium atom–diatom collisional energy transfer
Authors: Zhao Xiaorui , Xu Xuefei , Xu Haitao
Published: December 2024

The change of the vibrational energy within a molecule after collisions with another molecule plays an essential role in the evolution of molecular internal energy distributions, which is also the limiting process in the relaxation of gases toward equilibrium. Here, we investigate the energy transfer between the translational motion and the vibrational motion of the diatom during the atom–diatom collision, the simplest case involving the transfer between inter-molecular and intra-molecular energies. We are interested in the situation when the translational temperature of the gas is high, in which case, there are significant probabilities for the vibrational energy to change over widely separated energy levels after a collision. Data from quasi-classical trajectory simulations of the N + N2 system with ab initio potential energies suggest that the transition probability dependence on the collisional energy possesses an “activation-saturation” behavior and can be described by a simple model. The model allows for explicit evaluation of the vibrational state-to-state transition rate coefficients, from which the evolution of the vibrational energy distribution from any initial conditions can be solved by using the master equation approach. An example of the vibrational energy relaxation in the N + N2 system mimicking the gas behind strong shocks in a hypersonic flow is shown and the results are in good agreement with the available data.
Machine-learned flow estimation with sparse data—Exemplified for the rooftop of an unmanned aerial vehicle vertiport
Authors: Hou Chang , Marra Luigi , Cornejo Maceda Guy Y. , Jiang Peng , Chen Jingguo , Liu Yutong , Hu Gang , Chen Jialong , Ianiro Andrea , Discetti Stefano , Meilán-Vila Andrea , Noack Bernd R.
Published: December 2024

We propose a physics-informed data-driven framework for urban wind estimation. This framework validates and incorporates the Reynolds number independence for flows under various working conditions, thus allowing the extrapolation for wind conditions far beyond the training data. Another key enabler is a machine-learned non-dimensionalized manifold from snapshot data. The velocity field is modeled using a double encoder–decoder approach. The first encoder normalizes data using the oncoming wind speed, while the second encoder projects this normalized data onto the isometric feature mapping manifold. The decoders reverse this process, with k-nearest neighbor performing the first decoding and the second undoing the normalization. The manifold is coarse-grained by clustering to reduce the computational load for de- and encoding. The sensor-based flow estimation is based on the estimate of the oncoming wind speed and a mapping from sensor signal to the manifold latent variables. The proposed machine-learned flow estimation framework is exemplified for the flow above an unmanned aerial vehicle vertiport. The wind estimation is shown to generalize well for rare wind conditions, not included in the original database.
Effect of volatility differences in binary mixture droplet components on evaporation dynamics
Authors: Wang Xiaoyu , Li Chunxi , Wang Xin , Ye Xuemin
Published: December 2024

The evaporation of binary mixture droplets (BMDs) is a natural phenomenon, and this study presents a theoretical model for the evaporation of BMDs. Ethanol–water (EW) and ethylene glycol–water (EGW) BMDs are selected to investigate the impact of component volatility differences on evaporation dynamics. The dynamic evaporation processes of two BMDs on a heated substrate are simulated, and differences in internal flow structures are examined. A modified formula for the evaporation rate of BMDs is proposed, and the effects of substrate heating temperature and initial solute concentration on the evaporation dynamics are explored. The results indicate that during evaporation, EW-BMDs develop a complex and chaotic multi-vortex structure, while EGW-BMDs exhibit a pattern with only two coexisting vortices. The evaporation of EW-BMDs transitions into a water-dominated stage after an initial rapid decline in the droplet volume, while the evaporation rate of EGW-BMDs remains almost constant once they enter an ethylene glycol-dominated stage. Increasing the substrate heating temperature and initial solute concentration delays the onset time of the multi-vortex structure in EW-BMDs but accelerates its appearance in EGW-BMDs. Increasing the substrate heating temperature shortens the evaporation time of two BMDs and accelerates the evaporation rate. Increasing the initial solute concentration reduces the evaporation time of EW-BMDs but extends the evaporation time of EGW-BMDs, while also reducing the time required for the ethylene glycol mass fraction to reach 1.