bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
FDG-PET/CT Avid Uptake of a Biopsy-Proven Aggressive Melanotic Schwannoma of the S2 Spinal Nerve Root
Authors: Azab Mohammed A. , Mostafa Hamid Abdelma'aboud , Atallah Oday
Published: October 2024

Malignant melanotic nerve sheath tumors (MMNSTs), also known as a melanocytic schwannoma (MS), are a rare type of peripheral nerve sheath tumors including Schwann cells with melanocytic differentiation. Only a few cases of spinal MMNST have been reported in literature. Fluorine-18 fluorodeoxyglucose positron emission tomography/computed tomography (18F-FDG-PET/CT) could be used to detect these lesions. A 70-year-old man with a 6-month history of backache was admitted to our hospital. PET/CT showed a paravertebral soft tissue mass along the spinal nerve at the S2 level with strong FDG uptake, and a nodule with increased FDG uptake in the right lobe of the left liver. A CT-guided biopsy of the S2 lesion was performed. The final diagnosis was spinal MS with hepatic metastasis. The patient received stereotactic body radiation therapy. Herein, we report the PET/CT findings of a case of MS with hepatic metastasis. FDG-PET/CT is helpful in the differential diagnosis of benign and malignant lesions although nonspecific.
Helping Patients to Predict and Confirm Ovulation with the Use of Combined Urinary Hormonal and Smartphone Technology: A Proof-of-Concept Retrospective Descriptive Case Series
Authors: Leiva Rene , Ecochard Rene
Published: October 2024

Smartphone-based fertility awareness methods with home-based urinary hormonal testing are gaining popularity for fertility tracking. In our university-affiliated family practice, we integrated a previously developed ovulation tracking application into a protocol for monitoring urinary sex hormones and cervical secretions. Serum progesterone was used to confirm the luteal phase, with levels ≥ 15.9 nmol/L ensuring confirmation. Data from 110 women seen for infertility treatment (n = 95) or family planning advice (n = 15) and using our ovulation prediction protocol showed that most opted for a combination of cervical mucus and luteinizing hormone testing (n = 86). Among those using it for family planning, the median usage among women spanned 56 cycles, and 13 cycles per woman required progesterone testing for confirmation. Thirteen patients are still using the method without unintended pregnancies. No unintended pregnancies occurred. Confidence in tests based on serum progesterone was high (93%). For infertility, the method helped in the identification of anovulation, evaluating treatment response, and in diagnosing subfertility causes. This proof-of-concept retrospective descriptive case series suggests the potential for smartphone-based monitoring in fertility management, urging further studies for application enhancements and prospective validation.
Type 1 Diabetes and Pregnancy: Challenges in Glycemic Control and Maternal–Fetal Outcomes
Authors: Apata Tejumola , Samuel Dennis , Valle Laticia , Crimmins Sarah D.
Published: October 2024

Managing type 1 diabetes during pregnancy presents significant challenges due to physiological and hormonal changes. These factors contribute to major changes in insulin sensitivity, complicating efforts to achieve and sustain optimal blood glucose levels. Poorly controlled glucose levels during pregnancy can result in diabetic embryopathy and elevate the risks of maternal complications such as hypertensive disorders and diabetic ketoacidosis. Fetal complications may include preterm birth, fetal demise, and admission to neonatal intensive care units. It is essential to recognize that there is no universal approach to managing glycemic control in pregnant women with T1DM and care should be individualized. Effective management requires a multidisciplinary approach involving regular monitoring, adjustments in insulin therapy, dietary modifications, and consistent prenatal care. Continuous glucose monitoring has emerged as a valuable tool for real-time glucose monitoring, facilitating tighter glycemic control. Education and support for self-management are important in addressing these challenges. Future developments in technology and personalized approaches to care show promising potential for advancing diabetes management during pregnancy. This provides a comprehensive overview of current literature on the challenges with the management of T1DM during pregnancy, focusing on its impact on maternal and neonatal outcomes and highlighting effective strategies for achieving optimal glycemic control.
Impact of magnetic field variation on thermally annealed tantalum-filled vertical superconducting interconnects for scalable quantum computing systems
Authors: Mishra Harsh , Bonam Satish , Pandey Ullas , Singh Shiv Govind
Published: October 2024

Efforts to scale down advanced quantum processors with more numbers of qubits offer challenges since the integration of qubits is a significant obstacle in the path. Superconducting vertical interconnects in 3D IC integration can provide a crucial solution for wiring complexities, as shorter interconnections reduce energy loss when working in cryogenic conditions with better signal fidelity. Using the time-dependent Ginzburg–Landau equation, this simulation study analyzes vertical superconducting interconnects filled with materials like tantalum, niobium, and thermally annealed tantalum. It also investigates how London penetration depth (temperature-dependent) and magnetic fields affect Cooper pair density and, consequently, current density.
Probing slow glass dynamics down to 10−5 Hz
Authors: Yang Xi-Ming , Yang Qun , Zhang Tao , Yu Hai-Bin
Published: October 2024

Relaxation processes play a crucial role in glassy materials. However, current dielectric or mechanical spectroscopy typically reaches a lower limit of around 10−1 or 10−2 Hz, which restricts the exploration of long-time dynamics and stability. Here, we propose a mechanical protocol that enables the probing of relaxation processes down to 10−5 Hz, extending the lower limit by ∼3–4 orders of magnitude. The effectiveness of this method is demonstrated in investigating metallic glasses, where the primary and secondary relaxations are detected over an extended timescale. An additional relaxation process has been captured below 10−4 Hz, indicating the emergence of more complex relaxation phenomena over longer timescales. This progress in probing long-term dynamics opens up new possibilities for advancing glassy physics and material properties.
The effect of non-perpendicular incidence angles on discharge characteristics in an argon atmospheric plasma jet impinging on metal, water and glass substrates
Authors: Li Jiayin , Kim Minkwan
Published: October 2024

The spatial–temporal discharge behavior of an AC argon plasma jet tilted at non-perpendicular incidence angles (60°, 45°, and 30°) interacting with an ungrounded metal, water, and glass plate placed on the jet propagation track was studied by the fast-imaging technique. The conductivity of surface and incidence angles plays an essential role in the discharge current and dynamic process of the plasma jet. The nearly consistent time delay between subsequent breakdowns occurred four times for metal and two times for glass treatments. The mean luminous intensity of the plasma in one discharge cycle at the discharge area between ground electrode and target surface region for the water and glass case decreased by 39.5% and 20.5% when the incidence angle decreased from 60° to 30°, respectively. In particular, the incidence angle and gas flow rate notably impacted the spatial extension behavior created on the glass surface but had no significant difference in discharge characteristic of plasma jet with metal case. In addition, two equivalent circuit models were developed based on the simulation of the micro-discharges and the geometry of the “plasma jet–substrate” system, respectively. These results will obtain further insight into the underlying mechanisms of plasma-target interaction and facilitate the designing of appropriate jet for environmental and biomedical applications.
Theory for measuring electric charge density of a ring from scanning force microscopy
Authors: Gordon M. , Goykadosh B. , Magendzo Y. , Zypman F.
Published: October 2024

We consider a ring that carries an arbitrary electric charge density in the presence of a scanning force microscopy tip. We propose an algorithm that predicts this charge density from knowledge of the electrostatic ring-tip contribution to the total scanning force microscopy force–distance curves. We first solve the direct electrostatic problem of finding the electrostatic forces by the ring on a scanning force microscopy conducting probe. These forces are in the pN and nN range and, therefore, measurable with current technologies. Finally, we describe a method based on the least squares minimization method to measure the charge on the ring.
Current, core channel radius, and related parameters of channel plasma in artificially triggered lightning
Authors: Shen Xiaozhi , Su Mengle , Zhang Huaming , Gao Zhaoguang , Xu Yao , Wei Feng
Published: October 2024

Based on plasma physics methods, the relationship among the channel current (i), core channel radius (rcc), and other related parameters including electrical conductivity (σ), thermal conductivity (λe), and thermal diffusion coefficient (DeT) was investigated and strong interdependence was found among these parameters. Then, these dependent relationships together with the measured electron temperature (Te) and electron density (ne), derived from spectral diagnostics, were applied to determine the measured results on the i, rcc, σ, λe, and DeT of channel plasma in artificially triggered lightning along with their measured accuracies. Good accordance can be found with the aid of comparisons with other measurements of the artificially triggered lightning [L. Cai et al., J. Electrost. 109, 103537 (2021)].
Novel 3S-shaped biophotonic sensor utilizing MoS2–NSs/ZnO–NWs/AuCu–NCs for rapid detection of Shigella flexneri bacteria
Authors: Xiao Lucan , Singh Ragini , Nedoma Jan , Wang Qinglin , Liu Feng-Zhen , Tosi Daniele , Marques Carlos , Zhang Bingyuan , Kumar Santosh
Published: October 2024

This paper describes a unique, extremely sensitive biophotonic sensor with a three-tier S-tapered (3S) structure. It is designed for the real-time detection of Shigella flexneri (S. flexneri), a common foodborne pathogen that causes severe gastrointestinal diseases. The sensor development includes three distinct diameters of S-tapered structures. The performance of tapered sections was improved by using molybdenum disulfide nanosheets (MoS2-NSs), zinc oxide nanowires (ZnO-NWs), and photoluminescent bimetallic gold–copper nanoclusters (AuCu–NCs). These nanoparticles greatly improve the sensor’s performance. The sensor is further functionalized using anti-S. flexneri antibodies, allowing for the precise detection and capture of the target bacterium. The results show that the sensor can detect S. flexneri rapidly and accurately, with a linear detection range of 1–108 colony-forming units per milliliter (CFU/ml) and a low detection limit of 4.412 CFU/ml. In addition, the sensor’s ability to identify S. flexneri biofilms is demonstrated. Biofilm detection allows us to better understand and control biofilm concerns in the environment, equipment, and biomedical devices. Aptamer examines confirm the sensor’s ability to detect S. flexneri from the lateral direction. This study makes a significant contribution to the field of biosensing because no biophotonic sensor has previously been developed specifically for the detection of S. flexneri, fulfilling a critical gap in the arena of food safety and pathogen detection. The 3S sensor’s performance, robustness, and potential for practical applications make it an important addition to the field of photonics.
Numerical investigation of dynamic gas–liquid separator by population balance model
Authors: Qiu Zhi , Bai Ling , Pan Bo , El-Emam Mahmoud A. , Zhou Ling
Published: October 2024

Dynamic gas–liquid separator (DGLS) can efficiently separate gas and liquid phases and are widely used in aerospace, chemical, and petroleum engineering. The energy loss and separation efficiency within the DGLS are studied through the combination of numerical simulations and experiments. Three-dimensional transient Reynolds-Averaged Navier–Stokes equations were solved to analyze the fluid dynamics within the DGLS. The bubble aggregation and breakup in oil were simulated by using the population balance model. Experimental data were meticulously compared with numerical results to validate the accuracy and reliability of the numerical methods. The findings revealed a direct correlation between the inlet flow rate and various performance metrics of the DGLS. Specifically, as the inlet flow rate increased, the energy loss within the DGLS escalated, resulting in higher power consumption. The degassing rate of the DGLS exhibited a decreasing trend with increasing inlet flow rate, while the de-oiling rate showed an inverse relationship. The optimal performance of the separator was observed at an inlet flow rate of 140 m3·d−1, with ηg* and ηl* reaching 0.94 and 0.99, respectively. The relationship between the Qo and the η* and Po was fitted by a second-order polynomial. Moreover, the rotational speed of the DGLS demonstrated a positive correlation with energy consumption, accompanied by an increase in power output. However, the separation efficiency of the DGLS exhibited a non-linear relationship with rotational speed, peaking at a specific value before marginally declining. The optimization of degassing and dewatering rates occurred at a rotational speed of 2500 r·min−1. These findings underscore the importance of carefully adjusting operational parameters to achieve optimal performance and energy efficiency within DGLS.
Experimental realization of multiple frequency photoassociation in an optical dipole trap
Authors: Li Li , Wang Jian , Liu Yi-Jia , Zhou Xiao-Long , Huang Dong-Yu , Shen Ze-Min , He Si-Jian , Liu Zhao-Di , Li Chuan-Feng , Guo Guang-Can
Published: October 2024

The generation of cold molecules is an important topic in the field of cold atoms and molecules and has received relevant advanced research attention in ultracold chemistry, quantum computation, and quantum metrology. With a high atomic phase space density, optical dipole traps have been widely used to prepare, trap, and study cold molecules. In this work, Rb2 molecules were photoassociated in a magneto-optical trap to obtain a precise rovibrational spectrum, which provided accurate numerical references for the realization of multiple frequency photoassociation. By meeting the harsh requirements of photoassociation in optical dipole traps, the cold molecule photoassociation process was well explored, and different photoassociation resonances were simultaneously addressed in a single optical dipole trap. This method can be universally extended to simultaneously photoassociate cold molecules with different internal states or atomic species in a single optical dipole trap, thus advancing generous cold molecule studies such as cold molecule collision dynamics.
Water vapor responsiveness of chitosan: An experimental and simulation analysis
Authors: Murali Aathira , Kumar P. B. Sunil , Satapathy Dillip K.
Published: October 2024

Stimuli-responsive polymers have gained significant research interest in recent years owing to their potential applications in diverse areas. Here, we present a study on the actuation characteristics of chitosan-based free-standing films that exhibit full reversibility and repeatability in response to water vapor exposure. The effect of pH of the water and the degree of cross-linking of the chitosan films on the actuation performance is studied. In the case of free-standing polymer film-based actuators, the primary driving force behind actuation is understood to be the differential strain induced by the gradient in volume changes across the thickness of the film. To understand it further, we conducted full atomistic molecular dynamics simulation studies to explore water absorption and adsorption into the chitosan matrix. Our simulations revealed an accumulation of water molecules in the surface layer that rapidly desorb when shielded from water vapor. Furthermore, estimates of the energy gain resulting from the adsorption of water on the surface suggest that it is adequate to drive the shape change of the actuator when subjected to asymmetric exposure to water vapor. This finding supports the fact that the adsorbed layer of water on the surface of the chitosan film plays a role in actuation.
Structure effect of ENPs on mechanical properties of amorphous CuCo alloys
Authors: Wang Jie , Tian Zean , Zheng Quan , Liang Chengshuang , Fu Mingshao , Dong Kejun
Published: October 2024

Nanoparticles play an important role in the properties of metallic glasses (MGs) due to their diversified structures; however, their structure–property relationship is unclear. In this paper, three ex situ metallic glass matrix composites were assembled by three kinds of nanoparticles and Cu50Co50 MG obtained by rapid cooling, and their structural evolution under uniaxial compression is investigated by molecular dynamic simulation. It is found that the activated atoms always preferentially accumulate in the amorphous region near the embedded nanoparticles (ENPs). ENPs hinder the propagation of shear bands and lead to strain-hardening behavior. The fractal structures convert the HCP and tDh atoms into atoms of other structures to improve the anti-deformation ability, and the parallel-twin structure improves the anti-deformation ability through the mutual conversion of the FCC and HCP atoms. These findings provide a new idea for improving the mechanical properties of MGs. The change in the ENP structure provides theoretical support for the design of composite materials with specific requirements for structural evolution.
Piezo-viscous micropolar fluid flow between two parallel annular disks
Authors: Velisoju Swathi , Josyula Venkata Ramana Murthy
Published: October 2024

A theoretical analysis of the piezo-viscous dependence of micropolar fluid flow between parallel annular disks has been conducted. It is assumed that viscosity changes exponentially with pressure. Pressure is analytically approximated using a small perturbation method with the viscosity coefficient as the perturbation parameter. Squeeze film time, pressure, and load carrying capacity are calculated and graphically demonstrated across various viscosity–pressure characteristics. The study examines how an increase in cross-viscosity correlates with notable growth in pressure, response time, and bearing load. According to the results, micropolar fluid offers an increase in the load-bearing capacity and therefore lengthens the response time to prevent the contact of parallel annular disks. These observations are useful for bearings, seals, and lubrication systems, where controlling viscosity and pressure is crucial for smooth operation and productivity. As the limiting case of micro-polar fluid when the coupling number tends to zero or the couple stress parameter approaches infinity, without the annular ring, the present derivation agrees well with the Newtonian viscous case of parallel planar squeezing disks described by Bird et al. [Transport Phenomena (John Wiley & Sons, 2006)].
Optical-atomic system integration and calibration: Pumping from 1 atm to 1 × 10−11 Torr in 24 h
Authors: Kestler Grady , Ton Khang , Barreiro Julio T.
Published: October 2024

Ultracold atoms exquisitely controlled by lasers are the quantum foundation, particularly for sensing, timekeeping, and computing, of state-of-the-art quantum science and technology. However, the laboratory-scale infrastructure for such optical-atomic quantum apparatus rarely translates into commercial applications. A promising solution is miniaturizing the optical layouts onto a chip-scale device integrated with cold atoms inside a compact ultra-high vacuum (UHV) chamber. For prototyping purposes, however, rapidly loading or exchanging test photonic devices into a UHV chamber is limited by the evacuation time from atmospheric pressures to the optimal pressures for ultracold atoms of 1 × 10−11 Torr, a process that typically takes weeks or months without cryogenics. Here, we present a loadlock apparatus and loading procedure capable of venting, exchanging, and evacuating back to <1×10−11 Torr in under 24 h. Our system allows for rapid testing and benchmarking of various photonic devices with ultracold atoms.
n-changing population of Rydberg states by low-energy electron–Rydberg collisions
Authors: Li Yufan , Fang Feng , Zhou Wenchang , Liu Dingming , He Zhangru , Zhao Dongmei , Najjari Bennaceur , Yang Jie
Published: October 2024

Inelastic n-changing collisions play an important role in the evolution of Rydberg atoms into ultracold plasmas. However, for the initially intermediate n (n ∼ 40) Rydberg states, these collisions can hardly be observed due to the low electron temperature in ultracold plasmas. In this work, we designed an experimental scheme to facilitate collisions between free electrons at 1.5 eV and intermediate n Rydberg atoms. Using the field ionization technique, we measured the state distributions resulting from the evolution of initially cold rubidium atoms in the 45P3/2 Rydberg state. The experimentally obtained probability of inelastic collisions excitation agrees well with the Monte Carlo simulation results. In addition, our experimental results indicate that the n-changing population induced by hot electrons is significant for lower nP Rydberg states. Our work plays a significant role in calculating the rates of electron–ion three-body recombination in ultracold plasmas.
Two-stage assembly of patchy ellipses: From bent-core particles to liquid crystal analogs
Authors: Singh Anuj Kumar , Bupathy Arunkumar , Thongam Jenis , Bianchi Emanuela , Kahl Gerhard , Banerjee Varsha
Published: October 2024

We investigate the two-dimensional behavior of colloidal patchy ellipsoids specifically designed to follow a two-step assembly process from the monomer state to mesoscopic liquid-crystal phases via the formation of the so-called bent-core units at the intermediate stage. Our model comprises a binary mixture of ellipses interacting via the Gay–Berne potential and decorated by surface patches, with the binary components being mirror-image variants of each other—referred to as left-handed and right-handed ellipses according to the position of their patches. The surface patches are designed so as in the first stage of the assembly the monomers form bent-cores units, i.e., V-shaped dimers with a specific bent angle. The Gay–Berne interactions, which act between the ellipses, drive the dimers to subsequently form the characteristic phase observed in bent-core liquid crystals. We numerically investigate—by means of both Molecular Dynamics and Monte Carlo simulations—the described two-step process: we first optimize a target bent-core unit and then fully characterize its state diagram in temperature and density, defining the regions where the different liquid crystalline phases dominate.
Cavitation state recognition method of centrifugal pump based on multi-dimensional feature fusion and convolutional gate recurrent unit
Authors: Zhang Tonghe , Song Yongxing , Liu Qiang , Ge Yi , Zhang Linhua , Liu Jingting
Published: October 2024

The rapid and accurate recognition of cavitation in centrifugal pumps has become essential for improving production efficiency and ensuring machinery longevity. To address the limitations of existing methods in terms of applicability, accuracy, and efficiency, a new method based on multi-dimensional feature fusion and convolutional gate recurrent unit (MCGN) was proposed. Experimental monitoring of cavitation of centrifugal pumps was conducted. Five signals at different water temperatures and operating frequencies were collected. Key modulating features were extracted by time-frequency analysis and principal component analysis. The multi-dimensional features are fused by one and two dimensional convolutional neural networks. The cavitation state label was used to label the sample set by cavitation number, net positive suction head, and cavitation evolution images captured by high-speed cameras. Finally, the neural network based on the convolutional gate recurrent unit was used to classify the cavitation state of the centrifugal pump. The experimental results demonstrate that the proposed method achieves recognition accuracies exceeding 98% for vibration signals, noise signals, outlet pressure pulsation signals, and torque signals. Compared with the short-time Fourier transform-autoencoder model, MCGN model can improve the recognition accuracy by 4.03%, computation efficiency by 20%, and loss by 87%. These advances underscore the potential of the method in monitoring and maintenance practices for centrifugal pumps.
High sensitivity and detectivity of anomalous Hall sensor based on coupled magnetic bilayers
Authors: Liu Xinna , Meng Fanyu , Du Meining , Li Yankun , Li Pengzhen , Zhang Tuo , Feng Ying , Wang Yi
Published: October 2024

Detection of ultralow magnetic field requires a magnetic sensor with high sensitivity and a low noise level. In this work, we used the Co20Fe60B20/Ti/Co20Fe60B20 magnetically coupled multilayer as the core structure of an anomalous Hall sensor. We adjusted the thickness of the Ti interlayer to modify its perpendicular magnetic anisotropy and interlayer magnetic coupling, thereby improving the sensitivity of the anomalous Hall sensor. Through the investigation of magnetic field response and noise properties of devices with different Ti thicknesses, the highest sensitivity of 34 803 Ω/T and the best magnetic field detectivity of 4.6 nT/Hz at 1 Hz were achieved with a Ti thickness of 2.0 nm at room temperature. This anomalous Hall sensor has both ultrahigh sensitivity and magnetic field detectivity, making it a good candidate for applications in detecting weak magnetic fields.
Thermocavitation in gold-coated microchannels for needle-free jet injection
Authors: Schoppink Jelle J. , Rivera Bueno Nicolás , Fernandez Rivas David
Published: October 2024

Continuous-wave lasers generated bubbles in microfluidic channels are proposed for applications such as needle-free jet injection due to their small size and affordable price of these lasers. However, water is transparent in the visible and near-IR regime, where the affordable diode lasers operate. Therefore, a dye is required for absorption, which is often unwanted in thermocavitation applications, such as vaccines or cosmetics. In this work, we explore a different mechanism of the absorption of optical energy. The microfluidic channel wall is partially covered with a thin gold layer, which absorbs light from a blue laser diode. This surface absorption is compared with the conventional volumetric absorption by a red dye. The results show that this surface absorption can be used to generate bubbles without the requirement of a dye. However, the generated bubbles are smaller and grow slower when compared to the dye-generated bubbles. Furthermore, heat dissipation in the glass channel walls affects the overall efficiency. Finally, degradation of the gold layer over time reduces the reproducibility and limits its lifetime. Further experiments and simulations are proposed to potentially solve these problems and optimize the bubble formation. Our findings can inform the design and operation of microfluidic devices used in phase transition experiments and other cavitation phenomena, such as jet injectors or liquid dispensing for bio-engineering.
Study on the transient performance of textured water-lubricated bearings considering different acceleration conditions
Authors: Chen Ziqi , Wang Ji , Li Rui , Liu Yujun
Published: October 2024

This study analyses the transient friction dynamics behavior of water-lubricated bearings (WLBs) with a textured structure, which explains the mechanism of texture structure influencing the hydrodynamic effect of WLB in the physical aspect. A comparison of experimental and numerical data is carried out to validate the proposed mixed lubrication model with a textured structure for WLBs. The effects of texture type, texture angle, acceleration mode, and acceleration time on the nonlinear friction dynamics properties of WLBs are investigated. The result shows that various texture structures exhibit distinct pumping effects and that the optimal friction dynamics performance of WLBs can be achieved by adopting the right herringbone texture and an acceptable texture angle. It is advisable to utilize the reverse S-shaped acceleration mode, as it may efficiently mitigate hydrodynamic shock, minimize frictional contact at the initial startup stage, and control the rotor's vibration in later stages. The brief acceleration time may result in a transient shock that hampers proper lubrication, consequently affecting the stable operation of WLBs. The study's findings offer helpful suggestions for the enhanced design of WLB structures and the mitigation of wear and vibration.
Effect of unsaturated or saturated ferroelectric polarization on electrocaloric effect
Authors: Li Junjie , Yin Ruowei , Hou Yuxuan , Xiong Zhe , Wang Yi , Cheng Huimin , Su Xiaopo , Zhang Xing , Wu Wenjuan , Li Lezhong , Bai Yang
Published: October 2024

The pursuit of high-efficiency and zero-emission refrigeration technologies has spurred interest in electrocaloric (EC) refrigeration utilizing ferroelectric (FE) materials, where accurate characterization of the EC effect is crucial for comprehending its underlying physical mechanisms and for developing high-performance EC materials. In this study, we investigate the influence of unsaturated vs saturated FE polarization characteristics on EC effects using Pb0.99Nb0.02[(Zr0.6Sn0.4)0.85Ti0.15]0.98O3 ceramics. Direct EC measurement reveals that unsaturated loops can introduce substantial errors and even fake negative EC effects when employing the Maxwell approach for indirect EC measurement. In contrast, relatively accurate indirect EC results can be obtained using saturated FE hysteresis loops. Furthermore, it also highlights the necessity for saturated polarization conditions to achieve optimal EC performance in FEs. This work not only emphasizes the importance of carefully selecting polarization data for indirect EC measurements, but also presents a universal strategy to enhance EC effects in various materials.
Understanding the genetic landscape of flowering time variation in Brassica juncea (L.) Czern. and its diploid progenitors: unravelling the role of selection and cytoplasmic backgrounds
Authors: Sra Simarjeet K. , Akhatar Javed , Kaur Snehdeep , Atri Chhaya , Banga Surinder S.
Published: October 2024

Context Brassica juncea germplasm exhibits significant variations in flowering timing and vernalisation requirements. However, knowledge gaps exist with respect to variations in expression and the divergent evolution of flowering genes in B. juncea subgenomes. Aims This study aims to examine the role of flowering genes in defining trait variation and to identify indications of directional selection on these genes. Methods Employing a combination of genome-wide association studies, functional genomics and population genetic assays, we explored the genetic architecture underlying flowering time variation within expansive germplasm collections of this allopolyploid and its progenitor species. Key results Genome-wide association studies aided in predicting 17 and 34 candidate genes in B. rapa and B. juncea, respectively. Seven of these (FT, FLC, BAG4, ELF4-L2, EFM, SEP4, and LSH6) were predicted in both B. juncea and B. rapa. Some genes, GA20OX3, NF-YA1, PI, MMP, RPS10B, CRY2, AGL72, LFY, TOC1, ELF5, EFM, FLC and TFL1 exhibited directional selection as inferred from negative Tajima’s D and Fu’s Fs statistics. Conclusions Common predicted genes are known influencers of flowering time and phenological changes between species as well as across zones of adaptation. An analysis of gene expression patterns indicates that the gene expression bias in resynthesised B. juncea could be influenced by the cytoplasmic background. Most expression variants are found in B genome copies. Some genes lacked expression variation in their diploid progenitors, whereas these genes exhibit expression variation in polyploid species. Implications This study highlights that integrating genome-wide association studies with molecular signals of natural selection can effectively contribute to our understanding of the ecological genetics of adaptive evolution.
DNA but not always morphology help to recognise monophyletic genera within ‘Cercyon’ terrestrial water scavenger beetles: a case study of Asiacyon gen. nov. (Coleoptera: Hydrophilidae)
Authors: Mai Zuqi , Wang Liyang , Ryndevich Sergey K. , Fikáček Martin , Arriaga-Varela Emmanuel , Jia Fenglong
Published: October 2024

DNA-based studies have revealed that the terrestrial water scavenger beetle genus Cercyon Leach, 1817 (Coleoptera: Hydrophilidae: Sphaeridiinae: Megasternini) is polyphyletic, grouping similarly looking but unrelated species that were not assigned to other genera due to the absence of unusual morphological characters. In this study, we analyse the morphology, DNA data and species diversity of one of the Asian clades of ‘Cercyon’ to test whether a natural, phylogeny-based generic classification can be established. We add DNA data (five nuclear and three mitochondrial fragments) for additional species and specimens of the clade to test its monophyly and reveal phylogenetic relationships among species. We perform a detailed morphological study of all species, including SEM micrographs, to reveal synapomorphies of the DNA-based clades. We demonstrate that the lineage, described here as Asiacyon Mai, Jia, Ryndevich & Fikáček, gen. nov., is strongly supported by DNA data, has limited distribution (eastern Asia), and its species share similar biology (inhabiting fresh or decaying plant tissues), though it can be only diagnosed by a combination of plesiomorphic characters. A detailed treatment is provided for the Chinese species, including species diagnoses, illustrations of habitus and male genitalia, (re)descriptions and a key to species. A total of 14 Chinese species are recognised, of which 11 are described as new: Asiacyon pax sp. nov. (Guangdong, Hong Kong, Hunan), A. pseudincretus sp. nov. (Anhui, Jiangxi, Taiwan, Zhejiang), A. vicincretus sp. nov. (Guangdong, Guangxi), A. zhengyucheni sp. nov. (Yunnan), A. huilanae sp. nov. (Yunnan), A. cornipenis sp. nov. (Yunnan), A. belousovi sp. nov. (Yunnan), A. liangchengi sp. nov. (Yunnan), A. paraequalis sp. nov. (Yunnan), A. pengzhongi sp. nov. (Hunan) and A. xiuzhenae sp. nov. (Hainan, Yunnan). Three Chinese species previously classified in Cercyon are transferred to Asiacyon: A. incretus (d’Orchymont, 1941), comb. nov., A. primoricus (Ryndevich & Prokin, 2017), comb. nov. (newly recorded from China) and A. indicus (d’Orchymont, 1926), comb. nov. (newly recorded from China and Laos). Additionally, seven Asian species previously classified in Cercyon are transferred to Asiacyon based on their external morphology, but not studied in detail: A. aequalis (Sharp, 1884), comb. nov., A. conjiciens (Walker, 1858), comb. nov., A. dilutus (Régimbart, 1903), comb. nov., A. placidus (Sharp, 1884), comb. nov., A. pseudodilutus (Satô, 1979), comb. nov., A. retius (Ryndevich & Prokin, 2017), comb. nov., and A. rubicundus (Sharp, 1884), comb. nov. In total, the genus now comprises 21 named species and several undescribed species from India, Myanmar and Indonesia. ZooBank: urn:lsid:zoobank.org:pub:E3C949A0-34E4-46EF-BA6A-2CD048D583B2
Adolescent alcohol consumption predicted by differences in electrophysiological functional connectivity and neuroanatomy
Authors: del Cerro-León Alberto , Fernando Antón-Toro Luis , Shpakivska-Bilan Danylyna , Uceta Marcos , Santos-Mayo Alejandro , Cuesta Pablo , Bruña Ricardo , García-Moreno Luis M. , Maestú Fernando
Published: October 2024

Alcohol consumption during adolescence has been associated with neuroanatomical abnormalities and the appearance of future disorders. However, the latest advances in this field point to the existence of risk profiles which may lead to some individuals into an early consumption. To date, some studies have established predictive models of consumption based on sociodemographic, behavioral, and anatomical–functional variables using MRI. However, the neuroimaging variables employed are usually restricted to local and hemodynamic phenomena. Given the potential of connectome approaches, and the high temporal dynamics of electrophysiology, we decided to explore the relationship between future alcohol consumption and electrophysiological connectivity measured by MEG in a cohort of 83 individuals aged 14 to 16. As a result, we found a positive correlation between alcohol consumption and the functional connectivity in frontal, parietal, and frontoparietal connections. Once this relationship was described, multivariate linear regression analyses were used to evaluate the predictive capacity of functional connectivity in conjunction with other neuroanatomical and behavioral variables described in the literature. Finally, the multivariate linear regression analysis determined the importance of anatomical and functional variables in the prediction of alcohol consumption but failed to find associations with impulsivity, sensation seeking, and executive function scales. In conclusion, the predictive traits obtained in these models were closely associated with changes occurring during adolescence, suggesting the existence of different paths in neurodevelopment that have the potential to influence adolescents’ relationship with alcohol consumption.
Legal provisions on medical aid in dying encode moral intuition
Authors: Hannikainen Ivar R. , Suárez Jorge , Espericueta Luis , Menéndez-Ferreras Maite , Rodríguez-Arias David
Published: October 2024

In recent decades, many jurisdictions have moved toward legalizing euthanasia and assisted suicide, alongside a near-universal increase in public acceptance of medical aid in dying. Here, we draw on a comprehensive quantitative review of current laws on assisted dying, experimental survey evidence, and four decades of time-series data to explore the relationship between these legislative transitions and change in moral attitudes. Our analyses reveal that existing laws on medical aid in dying impose a common set of eligibility restrictions, based on the patient’s age, decision-making capacity, prognosis, and the nature of their illness. Fulfillment of these eligibility criteria elevates public moral approval of physician-assisted death, equally in countries with (i.e., Spain) and without (i.e., the United Kingdom) assisted dying laws. Finally, historical records of public attitudes toward euthanasia across numerous countries uncovered anticipatory growth in moral approval leading up to legalization, but no accelerated growth thereafter. Taken together, our findings suggest that the enactment of medical aid in dying laws, and their specific provisions, crystallize patterns in moral intuition.
Terez Shea-Donohue: Optimism helps, and confidence in your work is critical
Authors: Cols Montserrat
Published: October 2024

Terez Shea-Donohue is the program director of the Division of Digestive Diseases and Nutrition at the National Institute of Diabetes and Digestive and Kidney Diseases of the National Institutes of Health. As a program director, Terez supports basic and translational research related to neurogastroenterology, gastrointestinal (GI), and GI epithelial barrier function. We spoke to Terez about the transition from active research to a predominantly administrative job, the need for life-long mentorship, and the continued sex/gender bias in health care.
CCQM-K91.2022 key comparison on pH of an unknown phthalate buffer
Authors: Gonzaga Fabiano Barbieri , Pardellas Leonardo da Silva , Nagy Dániel , Nagyné Szilágyi Zsófia , Dimitrova Lyudmila , Hindayani Ayu , Montero-Ruiz Jazmin , Ortiz-Aparicio José Luis , Roziková Matilda , Torrez Jimena , Gamboa Maria , Galli Ariel , Rinaldi Angeles , Berón Cintia , Berta Yuri , Gelabert Victoria , Fajardo Simone , Hongyu Xiu , Bing Wu , Xinyang He , Ohata Masaki , Maksimov Igor , Uysal Emrah , Gençtürk Tosun Serap , Liv Lokman , Prokunin Sergey , Dobrovolskiy Vladimir , Vengina Darya
Published: October 2024

Main text

Key comparison CCQM-K91.2022, a repetition of the previous comparison CCQM-K91 from 2011, was performed to evaluate the degree of equivalence between pH measurement results of an unknown phthalate buffer reported by participating National Metrology Institutes (NMIs) and Designated Institutes (DIs). The participants used the highest-level metrological method existing at their institution. The nominal pH value of the buffer was 4.0 at 25 °C and the suggested measurement temperatures were 5 °C, 15 °C, 25 °C, 37 °C, and 50 °C. There was a good agreement among the results from most participants at 15 °C, 25 °C, and 37 °C. Due to the lack of results, no evaluation was possible of results at 5 °C and 50 °C.

To reach the main text of this paper, click on Final Report. Note that this text is that which appears in Appendix B of the BIPM key comparison database https://www.bipm.org/kcdb/.

The final report has been peer-reviewed and approved for publication by the CCQM, according to the provisions of the CIPM Mutual Recognition Arrangement (CIPM MRA).
Elastic mechanical thermodynamic and thermoelectric properties of pristine and titanium doped Mg2Si: a density functional theory study
Authors: Sharma Pradeep Kumar , Kachhara Chetan , Laihnuna N , Kedia Sanjay
Published: October 2024

Herein, we report a systematic investigation of the effect of Titanium doping on the structural, elastic, mechanical, thermodynamic, and thermoelectric (TE) dynamics of Mg2Si Compounds using first-principle investigation. The present study has been carried out using the full potential linearized augmented plane wave method as implemented in Wien2k code under mBJ exchange potentials. The investigations revealed that Mg2−x
Ti
x
Si compounds have structural stability with cubic phase (Fm–3m symmetry) and possess degenerate semiconducting nature. The analysis of elastic constants revealed mechanical stability of the investigated compounds following Born criteria. Thermodynamic investigations have been carried out in the temperature range of 100–1500 K at zero pressure and the quantities like heat capacity, Debye temperature, Grüneisen constant, and thermal expansion coefficient have been critically analyzed. Lastly, the TE performance of Mg2−x
Ti
x
Si compounds has been predicted by estimating the thermopower (S
2
σ) and TE figure of merit (zT) in the temperature range of 300–1500 K. The predicted value of zT
max for Mg2−x
Ti
x
Si compound is 0.67 at 800 K for x = 0.25 titanium content, suggesting materials promising application for TE energy harvesting and mechanical devices.
Estimation of GNSS satellite bias corrections using non-common frequency model with application to PPP-AR
Authors: Che Delu , Ye Fei , Zhang Baocheng
Published: October 2024

Corrections of satellite phase biases (SPBs) enable precise point positioning with ambiguity resolution (PPP-AR), which shortens the convergence time and improves positioning precision compared with PPP. Extending PPP-AR from dual-frequency to multi-frequency can further enhance the positioning performance by correcting satellite code biases (SCBs) at the third frequency and above. In formulating a multi-frequency model to estimate satellite bias corrections (SBCs), including SPBs and SCBs, existing studies use only satellite observations collected at common frequencies (CFs). This study proposes a non-CF (NCF) model that utilizes dual- and multi-frequency satellites to estimate SBCs simultaneously. To validate the NCF model, we collect data from an Australian network to estimate the SBCs and apply these corrections to the PPP-AR user positioning. The results show that the NCF model can provide SBCs for more satellites and frequencies than the CF model. After correction of SBCs, the proportion of fractional parts of float PPP ambiguities, which are less than 0.1 cycles, has a significant increase from 20% to 70%, indicating the successful restoration of the integer properties of PPP ambiguities by the SBCs. Moreover, a comparable experiment between the NCF and CF PPP-AR models is conducted. The NCF PPP-AR model demonstrates superior performance over the CF model using triple-frequency satellites in convergence speed and positioning precision, achieving improvements of 41.16% and 39.52%, respectively. Meanwhile, compared to the CF model using dual-frequency satellites, the NCF PPP-AR model shows improvements of 17.16% and 7.46% in these aspects. The positioning performance of the NCF PPP-AR model is evaluated across ten user stations sampled over three days. The results indicate the root mean square positioning errors for the east, north and up components are 0.41, 0.51 and 2.46 cm, respectively. Additionally, the average convergence time for achieving 3D positioning errors within 1 dm is 9.75 min.
An optimization of the Fourier self-calibration algorithm for improved noise suppression capability
Authors: Peng Yuqi , Wu Junjie , Qiao Xiaoyue , Cai Xiaoyu , Wei Jiasi , Ding Guoqing , Wang Kundong , Chen Xin
Published: October 2024

Self-calibration emerges as a promising approach in ultra-precision field, overcoming the limitations imposed by instrument capabilities in conventional calibration. In the self-calibration research, the algorithm based on the Fourier transform firstly established a rigorous theoretical framework. However, despite advancements in alternative self-calibration methods that have improved noise suppression, the traditional Fourier algorithm still faces challenges, particularly in mitigating random measurement noise in the separation results. In this study, we introduce methods on enhancing the noise suppression capabilities of the Fourier self-calibration algorithm. We investigate the hypothesis in the traditional algorithm and find that the computation of weighted averages had minimal effects. Then, we present our method by augmenting measurement positions. Considering both the increase in the number of measurement positions and the enhancement of noise suppression capabilities, augmenting translation positions in the opposite direction is proved to be the most effective strategy. Our algorithm can effectively suppress measurement noise when one-sided point number of the artifact is below 21. While the additional data processing slightly increases runtime, it does not alter the algorithm’s computational complexity, yet it significantly improves noise suppression. The effectiveness of our method is validated through a Monte Carlo comparison of uncertainties with the original algorithm. Experiments on Fizeau interferometer further prove robustness and practical feasibility of our proposed algorithm, with the measurement repeatability being reduced by 26.34% and 25.15% in the errors separated from the stage and the artifact.