bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
The impact of large-scale structure on the anisotropic quenching of satellites
Authors: Zakharova D. , McGee S. , Vulcani B. , De Lucia G.
Published: December 2024

Galaxies within groups exhibit characteristics different from those of galaxies that reside in regions of average density (the field). Galaxy properties also depend on their location within the host structure and orientation with respect to the central galaxy: galaxies in the inner regions that are aligned to the major axis of the central galaxy tend to be more quenched and redder than galaxies in the outskirts and with random orientation. This phenomenon, called anisotropic satellite galaxy quenching (ASGQ), can be explained in two different ways: invoking either external influences (large-scale distribution of matter) or internal factors (black hole activity of the central galaxy). In this work, we study the impact of filaments in shaping the ASGQ in the local Universe, exploiting the magneto-hydrodynamic (MHD) simulation IllustrisTNG. We separated all surviving satellites into young and old populations depending on their infall times. We show that only young satellites contribute to the observed ASGQ. These satellites preferentially infall along the major axis of the central galaxy, which tends to have the same direction of the filament feeding the groups. We demonstrate that old satellites were quenched inside their hosts and do not exhibit signatures of ASGQ. We show that the ASGQ emerges at the time of the infall of the young satellites and is also visible outside R200. In contrast, there is no sign of anisotropic distribution in the inner regions (R < 0.5R200). We argue that our results support a scenario in which a large-scale structure is imprinted on the ASGQ.
Cocoon shock, X-ray cavities, and extended inverse Compton emission in Hercules A: Clues from Chandra observations
Authors: Ubertosi F. , Gong Y. , Nulsen P. , Leahy J. P. , Gitti M. , McNamara B. R. , Gaspari M. , Singha M. , O’Dea C. , Baum S.
Published: December 2024

Aims. We present a detailed analysis of jet activity in the radio galaxy 3C 348 at the center of the galaxy cluster Hercules A. We aim to investigate the jet-driven shock fronts, the radio-faint X-ray cavities, the eastern jet, and the presence of extended inverse Compton (IC) X-ray emission from the radio lobes.

Methods. We used archival Chandra observations to investigate surface brightness profiles extracted in several directions and to measure the spectral properties of the hot gas and of the nonthermal emission from the radio jet and lobes.

Results. We detect two pairs of shock fronts: one in the north-south direction at 150 kpc from the center, and another in the east-west direction at 280 kpc. These shocks have Mach numbers of ℳ = 1.65 ± 0.05 and ℳ = 1.9 ± 0.3, respectively. Together, they form a complete cocoon surrounding the large radio lobes. Based on the distance of the shocks from the center, we estimate that the corresponding jet outburst is 90–150 Myr old. We confirm the presence of two radio-faint cavities within the cocoon, which are misaligned from the main lobes and each approximately 100 kpc wide and 40–60 Myr old. A backflow from the radio lobes might explain why the cavities appear to be dynamically younger than the surrounding cocoon shock front. We also detect nonthermal X-ray emission from the eastern jet and from the large radio lobes. The X-ray emission from the jet is visible at 80 kpc from the active galactic nucleus and can be accounted for by an IC model with mild Doppler boosting (δ ∼ 2.7). A synchrotron model could explain the observed radio-to-X-ray spectrum only for very high Lorentz factors γ ≥ 108 of the electrons in the jet. For the large radio lobes, we argue that the X-ray emission has an IC origin, with a 1 keV flux density of 21.7 ± 1.4 (statistical) ± 1.3 (systematic) nJy. A thermal model is unlikely, as it would require an unrealistically high temperature, density, and pressure for the gas in the lobes, along with strong depolarization of the radio lobes, which are instead highly polarized. The IC detection, combined with the synchrotron flux density, suggests a magnetic field of 12 ± 3 μG in the lobes.
Recent results in hadron spectroscopy from CMS
Authors: Mastrapasqua Vincenzo
Published: December 2024

The present report summarizes recent results on the heavy flavor spectroscopy at the CMS experiment obtained using data collected at the Large Hadron Collider during the 2015-2018 data taking with proton-proton collisions at centre-of-mass energy of 13 TeV: the results range from the observation of new structures in the di-charmonium mass spectrum to the observation of new decay modes of beauty baryons such as Ξb- and Λb0.
Heavy-flavour production as a function of event activity in pp collisions with the ALICE experiment
Authors: Gyulai László
Published: December 2024

Due to their large masses, the production of heavy-flavour quarks can be computed perturbatively, thus providing a powerful tool to test the corresponding QCD calculations. Additionally, measurements of heavy-flavour hadrons are useful to reveal the details of heavy-quark fragmentation in pp collisions at LHC energies. Event-activity-dependent measurements of heavy-flavour production may shed light on the mechanisms of interplay between soft and hard processes. In this contribution, we present recent measurements of the ALICE experiment on charm-hadron production as a function of charged-particle multiplicity in pp collisions at various energies, including the measurements of charm baryon-to-meson production yield ratios. New results of D-meson production as a function of the transverse spherocity of the event, as well as of the transverse event-activity classifier RT, are also presented.
Physics at future accelerators
Authors: Mele Barbara
Published: December 2024

New high-energy colliders are currently under discussion, and will potentially be operational after the completion of the LHC/HL-LHC program. They could open up scenarios for the exploration of the Standard Model of fundamental interactions and its possible extensions with unprecedented levels of precision and/or effective collision energy. In this talk, the strengths of the physics potential of the various projects will be summarized and highlighted.
Solvent solutions: comparing extraction methods for edible oils and proteins in a changing regulatory landscape. Part 3: Impacts on the process
Authors: Carré Patrick , Gärtner Maike , Bothe Sarah , Piofczyk Thomas , Hadjiali Sara
Published: December 2024

This article constitutes the third instalment in a comprehensive series dedicated to the comparative analysis of solvent solutions for oilseeds extraction. With some adaptations, all solvents considered except methanol would allow complete extraction of the meals. Nonpolar solvents such as hexane are penalized by their hydrophobicity in penetrating biological matrices, but their immiscibility with water makes their recycling simple and efficient. Their low energy requirement for evaporation and the use of live steam for final residue elimination are advantageous. Dichloromethane is similar to hexane in its low miscibility with water and high volatility, but its higher density could disrupt percolation by compacting the material bed. Ethyl acetate and 2-methyloxolane have limited miscibility with water, allowing for simple removal of process water, but residual water promotes higher solvent retention in the marc, making the desolventizer’ s task more difficult and requiring higher solvent-to-solid ratios. Saturated methyl ethyl ketone contains even more water, potentially exacerbating these problems. Acetone, as well as ethanol and isopropanol, are completely miscible with water, thus prohibiting the separation of process water and requiring additional process steps such as pervaporation for alcohols and rectification for acetone. Substantial energy savings are possible with these solvents by separating oil from the miscella through cold precipitation, particularly in the case of ethanol, which has low miscibility with oil. An additional operation is the drying applied to the incoming material. Each solvent family therefore presents specific challenges and advantages, requiring tailored solutions to optimize extraction while maintaining efficiency, profitability, and product quality.
Strategic Quality Management in the Electric Vehicle Transition: A Case Study of CATL’s Supply Chain Management
Authors: Wu Ruiwen
Published: December 2024

As global demand for electric vehicles (EVs) surges, the traditional internal combustion engine vehicle supply chain is undergoing significant structural adjustments. Batteries, being a core component of EV performance and a major cost factor in new energy vehicles, make advancements in battery technology crucial for industry growth. This study analyzes CATL’s quality management strategies within the battery supply chain, focusing on procurement, research and development, and partnerships with suppliers. By examining CATL’s strategies in increasing procurement volumes, boosting R&D investment, and collaborating with upstream and downstream suppliers, this study reveals how the company enhances production efficiency and quality control through innovation and management optimization. The study compares CATL with BYD, highlighting differences in supply chain management strategies and effectiveness. Research indicates that CATL has strengthened market competitiveness and addressed industry challenges by optimizing supply chain management, enhancing supplier collaborations, and increasing R&D investment. This study provides an effective quality management model for the battery industry and suggests future research directions.
Analysis of Apple’s Marketing Strategy: Strengths, Challenges, and Future Directions
Authors: He Zhucheng
Published: December 2024

This article provides an in-depth analysis of Apple’s marketing strategy, aiming to explore how the company can maintain its competitive advantage in the rapidly changing global market. The research background stems from the intense competition in the global technology industry and the constantly changing demands of consumers for high-tech products and services. As an industry leader, Apple’s successful marketing strategy not only drives its own sustained growth, but also provides valuable reference for other enterprises. However, with the intensification of market competition and the uncertainty of the global economic environment, Apple is also facing new challenges. Subsequently, using the SWOT analysis method, Apple’s marketing strategy was comprehensively analyzed from four perspectives: strengths, weaknesses, opportunities, and threats. Research has found that Apple has maintained its global leading position with its strong brand awareness, innovation capabilities, and stable market performance, but it also faces challenges such as high pricing, intensified market competition, and global economic uncertainty. Based on this, this article proposes suggestions including expanding diversified product lines, continuously developing high-tech, strengthening user privacy management, and providing personalized services to help Apple maintain its competitiveness and innovation capabilities in the future market.
Maintaining Market Share: HP’s Competitive Strategies in the Notebook Sector
Authors: Liu Maoji
Published: December 2024

This paper provides a comprehensive analysis of the factors contributing to HP’s ability to maintain a stable market share amidst the dominant positions of Apple and Lenovo in the technology sector. It explores the underlying causes that allow HP to sustain its market presence despite the significant market shares held by Apple and Lenovo. The paper delves into the technological advancements and marketing strategies employed by Apple and Lenovo that have propelled them to achieve high market shares. By examining the unique characteristics and strategic approaches of these two major competitors, the study identifies how their innovations and marketing tactics differ. Additionally, the paper contrasts these with HP’s own consumer appeal and distinct marketing strategies. It investigates HP’s internal operational and marketing strategies, providing insights into how the company attracts and retains its customer base. Through this comparative analysis, the paper aims to uncover the key elements that enable HP to remain competitive and relevant in a market dominated by powerful rivals.
The application and influence of online marketing in brand communication: A case study of Starbucks
Authors: Xu An
Published: December 2024

In recent years, with the rapid development of network technology and the improvement of people’s living standards, people use the Internet more and more frequently, and use the Internet to study, work and live. The Internet has become a popular sales channel, and more and more new brands hope to expand operation channels through the Internet platform to enhance customer stickiness and achieve higher brand revenue. Nowadays, online marketing has greatly increased the total revenue of various companies and brought faster economic development to society. Starbucks, a famous coffee brand, has created a network marketing model that conforms to its own brand characteristics and realized the digital transformation of its brand through rational use of network marketing means. Through case analysis, this paper mainly studies the network marketing channels of Starbucks and the advantages it brings, but there are also disadvantages such as user groups, user stickiness and human resource redistribution.
Research on online social media marketing strategies of traditional consumer brands: A case study of Mac cosmetics
Authors: Yan Weixi
Published: December 2024

This paper explores the impact of social media on the marketing strategies of traditional consumer brands, focusing on MAC Cosmetics. Nowadays, social media is vital for businesses to engage customers and enhance their online presence. This study examines how MAC Cosmetics utilizes platforms like Instagram, Facebook, and Twitter to boost brand visibility, foster customer interaction, and drive sales. Through literature review and case study analysis, it identifies key strategies such as targeted advertising, influencer collaborations, and user-generated content. The findings highlight social media’s significant role in influencing consumer behaviour and enabling direct brand-audience communication. The study also discusses the challenges and opportunities in social media marketing, providing insights for traditional brands to leverage social media for enhanced marketing outcomes. The conclusions emphasize the necessity for a well-integrated social media strategy to remain competitive in the evolving digital landscape, contributing to a deeper understanding of the intersection between traditional brand marketing and social media dynamics.
Monetization Strategies of Chinese Knowledge Content Creators on Social Media Platforms
Authors: He Zhiming , Liu Xueying , Rong Lanqi , Wang Leyi
Published: December 2024

In recent years, the increasing audience of knowledge-based short videos in China has made the knowledge payment industry develop continuously. Therefore, it is helpful to analyze the monetisation mode of knowledge short video creators for the sustainable development of the industry. This paper collects and analyzes data from four different media platforms and finds that there are obvious differences in user groups and content preferences of different platforms. Moreover, short video bloggers on different platforms mainly choose different monetization modes. At the same time, private domain traffic is also an effective way for video creators to consider monetization. Finally, this paper will summarize the best monetization ways that knowledge short video creators on different platforms can take and the ways that can maintain the long-term attractiveness of the industry. For example, to ensure the quality of content and make innovations on this basis, to meet the diversified needs of users, to understand the preferences of users on different platforms and make adjustments. To ensure long-term credibility, bloggers need to be aware of the importance of private domain traffic.
Research on the Influence of Chinese Social Media on Women’s Self-esteem Catalyzed by the Homogenization of Female Images in China
Authors: Piao Xiumin
Published: December 2024

Social media in modern society are platforms where everyone can present themselves, and they are also “stages” where women can present diverse images of women and convey messages of women’s strength. Most of the images of women are from a male aesthetic perspective, and men’s discourse in the image of women is higher than that of women. Nowadays, the status of women in Chinese society is gradually rising, but women still do not have a great say in image aesthetics. This phenomenon is particularly evident in social media platforms, where women’s aesthetic shift towards diversity has significant limitations and fails to break free from restrictive aesthetic frameworks, leading to the problem of women’s self-esteem being undervalued. Numerous advertisers market and pursue commercial gain by selling anxiety and constantly instilling the idea that the value of women depends on the image of female beauty. Social media platforms need to guide women to the correct concept of aesthetics, and the government and legal authorities need to formulate relevant laws and guide correct values to enhance women’s sense of self-esteem and promote a more diversified aesthetic and the concept of a healthy and beautiful image.
Enhancing Brand Recognition through Simplified Visual Identity: Impact and Benefits
Authors: Cui Can
Published: December 2024

This study on the simplification of brand visual identity primarily explores the necessity of simplifying brand logos and visual elements and their impact on brand recognition. The findings indicate that a simplified visual identity not only enhances brand recognition in digital environments but also improves consumer memory and associations with the brand. By reducing extraneous design elements, brand imagery can more intuitively convey core values while maintaining consistency across multiple platforms. Additionally, minimalist design aligns with modern consumers’ aesthetic preferences, projecting professionalism and a sense of trendiness, thereby enhancing the brand’s market competitiveness. Simplified design also facilitates cross-cultural communication for brands in the global market, increasing their international influence. This paper summarizes the various advantages of simple visual design and offers several practical recommendations, providing theoretical support for brands seeking sustainable development in a complex and dynamic market environment. The study employs literature review and case analysis methods. Using the well-known automotive brand Audi as a case study, it analyzes the need to balance visual simplicity with brand uniqueness during the simplification process to avoid the loss of brand personality.
Analysis of the Causes of H&M Depression
Authors: Qu Yanrui
Published: December 2024

H&M is a company that manufacture clothes globally. However, in 2017-2020 years, H&M experienced difficulties globally. It adjusted its strategy in 2019 to cope with the situation and successfully recovered in global business, but the sustainability strategy it adopted failed to save its Chinese market and the group was forced out of Chinese in 2021. This research uses multiple approaches to analyse the strategy adopted by H&M and the successful outcome of it in the global market and the failure in the Chinese market. A PEST analysis is utilized to analyse the H&M group’s development path. H&M’s financial report from 2017 to 2023 is also analysed. This study also implements ESG analyses on the sustainability strategy adopted by H&M, aiming to solve its problems. The study found while the strategy lifted the global sales and profits from the difficulties during pandemic, it also complicated its relationship with the Chinese government during “Xinjiang cotton” event and was forced out of
Efficiency and Sustainability in International Maritime Logistics: The Role of Artificial Intelligence
Authors: Liu Yankun
Published: December 2024

Artificial Intelligence (AI) is rapidly advancing and has become synonymous with high-tech innovation. As international shipping, a traditionally established industry, evolves within this era of technological progress, it is increasingly embracing intelligent and sustainable practices. A growing number of researchers and practitioners are exploring the integration of AI into the shipping industry, leading to significant advancements in recent years. Notable examples include the application of PLC technology in port cranes, the development of visual management systems for port energy consumption, the implementation of AI in port horizontal transport systems, and the introduction of intelligent berthing and de-berthing assistance systems. This paper outlines the structure, operational models, and sustainable development concepts of the international shipping industry. By reviewing current research and practical applications of AI in this field, it highlights emerging trends, identifies research gaps, and offers recommendations for researchers and shipping companies to guide future developments in the industry.
Research Prospect of Efficiency Improvement of Artificial Intelligence for Enterprises
Authors: Han Yuxian
Published: December 2024

In today’s era of digital economy, the rapid development and wide application of big data and artificial intelligence have promoted the vigorous and upward development of the economy. As an important part of the social economy, enterprises are also actively exploring the combination of artificial intelligence, so as to promote the improvement of production efficiency. At present, the academic fields have made some progress in the study of enterprise digital transformation, but there are still many controversies and discussions. Based on the transformation of Corindor Glass formula, this paper verifies the improvement of artificial intelligence on enterprise efficiency and verifies its practicality and operability through the actual case of artificial intelligence improving enterprise efficiency. On this basis, it analyzes the relevant fields that enterprises can improve through artificial intelligence, analyzes the existing problems, and gives reasonable suggestions. Through the double verification of theory and practice, it can be concluded that although there are still some imperfect aspects of artificial intelligence, it has a great role in promoting the efficiency of enterprises. In general, the combination of artificial intelligence and enterprise production will promote the modern, intelligent, scientific and technological, flexible development of enterprises.
Research on Global Bicycle Market and Development Trend
Authors: Wang Yang Michael
Published: December 2024

In the past decades, the global bicycle market has experienced great changes and development. This is partly due to increased awareness of the environment and traffic jams. Furthermore, the demand for bicycles surged during the COVID-19 pandemic since people starts to care more about their health. Therefore, there exists great prospect and importance to carry out in detailed research about the bicycle market. However, current research about the bicycle market focus only on certain segment or part of the area. By studying market data and examining brand and regional difference, this article aims to find the key factors that drives the industry, and therefore make recommendations for enterprises. This article will discuss the development status and future trends of global bicycle market. It analyses technological advancements, market competition, and regional difference over the world. The result shows that global bicycle market has a great prospect and makes several recommendations to bicycle companies. Bicycle companies should invest in new technologies, expand sales channel, focus on market segmentation, and establish strong brand influence.
The Impact of the Exchange Rate on Enterprise’s International Export Trade Sales during Economic Downturn Cycles
Authors: Chen Hongyu
Published: December 2024

Research has shown that the exchange rate will affect the export volume of enterprises. The exchange rate significantly impacts a country’s economy, including its foreign exchange and financial aspects. ordinary least squares (OLS) will be utilized in the research to assess the impact of exchange rates on export trade volume during economic downturns. Through regression equations, it was found that the exchange rates of major trading countries have an impact on export volume, while the exchange rate of the US dollar has no impact, but the exchange rate of the US dollar has an impact on gasoline engine sales. The main reason for this is that excessive exchange rate fluctuations can cause customers to be bearish on their currency value, so the country should formulate a stable monetary policy, companies should carry out digital risk management, and actively pay attention to changes in the international situation to cope with exchange rate fluctuations with a positive attitude.
The Impact of the Double Reduction Policy on China’s Education and Training Market
Authors: Chen Junyi
Published: December 2024

In recent years, the Chinese education and training market has experienced significant growth, but the excessive academic pressure on students and the disorderly expansion of the training industry have led to the implementation of the “double reduction” policy. This article analyzes the impact of the “double reduction” policy on the Chinese education and training market, and explores the reasons for the sharp decline in market size and the transformation of business models. Research has found that after policy implementation, the market size sharply shrinks, and many training institutions face pressure to close or reduce their scale. Large training institutions are also facing challenges and need to re-examine their business layout, close some branch campuses, and lay off employees to reduce costs. In terms of business model transformation, the “double reduction” policy has prompted educational institutions to undergo profound transformation. Online education is restricted, and institutions must re plan their online business development blueprint, adjust course schedules, optimize course content, and explore diversified business models. Blended learning mode has become an important exploration direction for educational institutions, emphasizing the provision of high-quality educational services and valuing the cultivation of students’ thinking ability, innovation ability, and comprehensive quality. Looking ahead, although the “double reduction” policy has brought short-term impacts to the education and training market, in the long run, it has positive and far-reaching significance for the Chinese education and training market. The market will continue to explore and innovate, moving towards a more scientific, diversified, and sustainable development path.
Norway spruce forest management in the Czech Republic is linked to the solar cycle under conditions of climate change – from tree rings to salvage harvesting
Authors: Šimůnek Václav , Vacek Zdeněk , Vacek Stanislav , Švanda Michal , Hájek Vojtěch , D’Andrea Giuseppe
Published: December 2024

Norway spruce (Picea abies [L.] Karst.) is the most important economic tree species in Central Europe. It has been affected by extensive windstorms and bark beetle disturbances, which have intensified in recent years. Spruce stands are subject to regular reoccurring disturbances with different intensities. This study examines timber harvests in the Czech Republic and the tree-ring series of Norway spruce from six permanent research plots across the country. The timber harvest shows a cyclical connection with the sunspot number, and of these, the percentage of spruce logging shows a substantial link with the sunspot number while the percentage of salvage logging indicates a relation with Total Solar Irradiance (TSI) and seasonal temperature. The seasonal North Atlantic Oscillation (NAO) indicated a link with logging types as well. However, the connection between TSI and SunSpot Number (SSN) with logging types was statistically significant, while the tree rings were more related to seasonal NAO than timber harvests. The tree Ring Width Index (RWI) series shows reduced growth, which precedes the peak in the timber harvests by 1 year. Timber harvests peak one year after minimum RWI, and they coincide with solar minimum years. In summary, average tree ring series reach predominantly their lowest values one year before the solar minimum, coinciding with increased spruce and salvage logging. Conversely, during the solar maximum, harvests are lower, and tree ring series remain relatively stable. In the spectral analysis, tree-ring series and all types of timber harvests show a quasi-11-year cycle. Spruce trees indicate higher tree-ring growth and lower timber harvests during solar maximum compared to solar minimum and this may be associated with specific meteorological conditions that may be affected by solar variability. European forestry is unfamiliar with the effects of the solar cycle; nevertheless, this phenomenon is present in both spruce tree rings and the aggregate of timber harvests. Further research on this issue will be necessary, but it is already apparent that regularly recurring calamities in spruce stands are likely to be reflected in all of Central Europe.
Comparison of Diagnostic Performances of ATA Guidelines, ACR-TIRADS,
and EU-TIRADS and Modified K-TIRADS: A Single Center Study of 4238 Thyroid
Nodules
Authors: Özdemir Mustafa , Türk Gamze , Bilgili Mustafa , Akay Ebru , Koç Ali
Published: December 2024

Several ultrasound-based risk stratification systems (RSSs) have been
developed and introduced into clinical practice for managing thyroid
nodules. However, there are essential differences among these systems. This
study aimed to determine and compare the category-based diagnostic
performance of four ultrasound-based risk stratification systems in the
detection of thyroid cancer: ACR-TIRADS, ATA, K-TIRADS, and EU-TIRADS.

This study included 4238 nodules sampled by fine-needle aspiration biopsy
between January 2018 and December 2021. Nodules were classified according to
ultrasound imaging features and correlated with biopsy results. The
diagnostic success of the risk stratification systems was evaluated and
compared.

Of the 4238 nodules, 3861 (91.1%) were benign and 376 (8.9%) were malignant.
Malignancy was significantly higher in hypoechoic and marked hypoechoic
nodules (p=0.001), and solid nodules (p=0.002). For detection of malignancy,
areas under the receiving operator characteristics curves were 0.862, 0.850,
0.842, and 0.835 for 2017 ACR-TIRADS, EU-TIRADS, for K-TIRADS, and 2015
American Thyroid Association guidelines, respectively. EU-TIRADS showed the
highest sensitivity (91%), whereas ACR-TIRADS had the highest specificity
(87%). Compared to other risk stratification systems, ACR-TIRADS resulted in
significantly fewer unnecessary biopsies (p=0.009).

All RSSs show high diagnostic accuracy and have their own advantages and
disadvantages. When selecting an appropriate RSS, the population, the
prevalence of the disease, and gender distribution should be considered.
Diagnostic Performance of Integrated 18F FDG PETMR in the Diagnosis of Recurrent Foot Infection—Comparison with 18F FDG PETCT and Conventional 99mTc MDP Bone Scan
Authors: Subramanyam Padma , Palaniswamy Shanmuga Sundaram
Published: December 2024

Introduction Ulcerated foot is a forerunner for amputations among diabetics. Early detection of foot complications is imperative for guiding management; more so in recurrent foot infections.

Purpose The objective of this study was first, to determine the diagnostic performance of integrated Fluorodeoxyglucose (FDG) Positron emission tomography (PET) magnetic resonance (MR) in suspected soft tissue infections (STIs)/osteomyelitis (OM) in patients presenting with recurrent foot infections. Second, to compare regional [18F] fluoro-2-deoxy-2-d-glucose (18F FDG) PET Computed tomography (CT) and conventional three-phase 99mTc methylene diphosphonate (MDP) bone scan (BS) in this group of patients along with integrated PETMR.

Materials and Methods A total of 21 adult patients with suspected recurrent foot infections were prospectively enrolled from March 2020 until September 2023 in our tertiary care center. All patients were primarily referred for a regional PETMR (foot) study. We instituted a protocol to combine three-phase 99mTc MDP BS followed by PET imaging the next day (PETMR followed by PETCT). Images were correlated with patients' foot symptoms and clinical examination.

Results Diagnostic performance of 18F FDG PETMR was superior compared with other two imaging modalities for STIs and OM. Using 18F FDG PETCT, sensitivity, specificity, and accuracy for diagnosing soft tissue (ST) foot infections was 91, 71, and 79%, respectively, while for PET MR, it was 99.4, 100, and 98.6% versus 74.4, 31.2, and 62% for BS.

Conclusion Our study recommends the use of integrated 18F FDG PETMR for podiatry-related problems, as it provides excellent ST demarcation and information on associated bone involvement, if any. It helps in accurately differentiating OM versus Charcot's foot; more so in surgically intervened or previously debrided foot when compared with the other two modalities. 18F FDG PETMR clearly demarcates the depth and extent of surgery one must perform to get a reprieve from occult pockets of infection so as to attain a disease-free status. Given the paucity of evidence for integrated PETMR usage in foot-related indications, our small sample study highlights its superiority for clearly delineating and diagnosing various foot pathologies, infections, especially in the clinical setting of postsurgery/debrided foot.
Far-right movement-party activism as strategy: Germany’s ‘peace movement’ during Russia’s war against Ukraine
Authors: Weisskircher Manès
Published: December 2024

This article studies the strategic considerations behind far-right movement-partyism in the context of ‘new’ issues such as Russia’s war against Ukraine. The question of military support to Ukraine, high energy prices, and the reception of war refugees soon became salient issues in many European states. In Germany, the government, dominated by the centre-left, moved towards greater military support. The loudest opponents of arms supply and sanctions were found within the far-right party Alternative für Deutschland (Alternative for Germany, AfD). Perhaps paradoxically, many AfD politicians, together with a variety of far-right social movement groups and prominent activists, even went to the streets, portraying themselves as new ‘peace movement’. The article asks: What are the far rights’ motives behind going to the streets? What should these efforts organizationally achieve? And what does street mobilization in the context of war teach us about the state of far-right movement-partyism more generally? The article highlights the following strategic motives of the far right: (1) the long-term aim of strengthening of organizational structures beyond the electoral arena and (2) the attraction of (former) left-wingers through ‘Querfront’ (‘cross-front’) strategies. The article also studies (3) far-right activists’ ambivalent self-assessments of their success. Further analysing these strategic considerations, the article provides important contributions to debates on the far right's mainstreaming and normalization efforts, their own intellectual reflection of strategy, and the impact of their efforts.
Alkali metal ion storage of 2,6-naphthoquinone molecules encapsulated in single-walled carbon nanotubes
Authors: Qin Mulan , Liu Hongjun , Ta Jinguo , Li Canghao , Liang Bunv
Published: December 2024

Due to its lower cost, environmental friendliness, and higher energy density, 2,6-naphthoquinone (NQ) demonstrates potential as an electrode material in lithium/sodium ion batteries. However, the limitations of poor conductivity and easy dissolution in electrolyte hinder its practical application. In this study, we employed single-walled carbon nanotubes (SWCNTs) as a protective capsule for encapsulating NQ molecules to address these challenges. The characteristics of NQ molecules encapsulated within SWCNTs (NQ@SWCNTs) were investigated using thermogravimetric analysis, x-ray photoelectron spectroscopy, x-ray powder diffractometry, and Raman measurements. Charge–discharge experiments of lithium/sodium ion batteries were conducted on both pristine NQ molecules and NQ@SWCNTs. Furthermore, we discussed the observed disparities in charge–discharge curve between NQ@SWCNTs and bare NQ.
Development of new gas analytical technique for infrared spectroscopy combined with differential pressure measurements
Authors: Che Dock-Chil , Muramatsu Satoru , Azuma Shuntaro , Inokuchi Yoshiya
Published: December 2024

A new gas analytical technique for infrared laser spectroscopy combined with differential pressure measurement (IR-DP) is developed. The basic idea of this technique is that the absorption process of molecules by laser irradiation is monitored as the pressure enhancement in a gas cell by use of a differential pressure gauge. The system is composed of a tunable IR laser system, sample cell, differential pressure gauge, and data accumulation system. Using this system, the measurements of the IR absorption spectra for cyclohexane (50 ppm) and ammonia (100 ppm) are demonstrated. By comparison of the current IR-DP spectra with conventional Fourier-transform infrared spectra, the spectral resolution is found to be about 3 cm−1, reflecting the laser resolution. Furthermore, the estimated pressure enhancement based on a simple model is consistent with the experimental results. These results suggest that the newly developed IR-DP technique is one of a powerful tool for trace gas detection.
Effect of the atmospheric stability condition on buoyant plume dynamics
Authors: Dubey Ritambhara Raj , Mahato Bikash , Yaghoobian Neda
Published: December 2024

Buoyant plumes from various geophysical events significantly contribute to atmospheric pollution, affecting air quality, human health, and ecosystems. Understanding the dispersion dynamics of these plumes is essential for managing their environmental impacts and improving predictive models. Plume behavior is strongly influenced by the stability conditions of the atmospheric boundary layer, which vary between day and night due to diurnal changes in the Earth's surface temperature. During the daytime, solar heating creates an unstable boundary layer, often extending to several kilometers in height, while at night, radiative cooling leads to a stable boundary layer, typically a few hundred meters deep with weaker turbulence. Using large-eddy simulations, this study investigates how these diurnal variations in atmospheric stability affect the dynamics and dispersal behavior of turbulent plumes in crossflows. The results indicate that the plume's energy content and decay are highly influenced by the state of the atmospheric stratification, leading to distinctive patterns of dispersion, entrainment, and spread. By understanding the mechanisms governing the behavior of plumes, this study aims to contribute to better planning, management, and mitigation of their adverse effects.
A bouncing and rotating drop after oblique impact on Lubricant-Impregnated surfaces
Authors: Bae Changwoo , Ko Young-Su , Shin Seungwon , Lee Choongyeop
Published: December 2024

While perfectly water-repellent surfaces, such as superhydrophobic surfaces, always repel water drops after contact, the drops can either stick to or bounce off lubricant-impregnated surfaces (LISs) depending on the impact conditions. This study investigates the rebound behavior of water drops on LIS, highlighting how this phenomenon significantly depends on both the viscosity of the lubricant and the obliqueness of the surface. Both the lubricant viscosity and surface obliqueness contribute to an increase in dissipation: an increase in lubricant viscosity directly increases the viscous force, and increased surface obliqueness causes the drop to slide on a viscous liquid, resulting in increased dissipation energy. Throughout the study, the dissipation energy attributed to sliding and inelastic collision is addressed. Additionally, we identify an intriguing rotational behavior of drops post-rebound. The direction of rotation varies with the viscosity of the LIS, impact velocity, and surface obliqueness. Numerical simulations demonstrate that this rotation direction is determined by the front and rear velocities of the drop, which is affected by the dynamic advancing and receding contact angles.
Flow structure and characteristics of fluid undergoing a sudden contraction to an annular gap under dynamic boundary
Authors: Song Xiaoteng , Sun Xihuan , Li Yongye , Ma Juanjuan , Liu Xinyang , Li Bodong
Published: December 2024

Pipeline transport serves as an effective means to alleviate traffic congestion and reduce carbon emissions from transportation. The hydraulic delivery system, which employs pipeline cars as carriers, addresses the limitations of existing systems. However, its transportation efficiency is affected by variations in the flow structure within the pipelines. During the acceleration of the pipeline car, the sudden contraction flow field from circular to annular gap formed in the vicinity of the end face under dynamic boundary conditions. This study utilized particle image velocimetry (PIV) to visualize and measure the sudden contraction flow field. Based on the obtained experimental results, it investigated the impact of dynamic boundary velocity on the flow structure, velocity characteristics, and energy dissipation of the annular gap. The acceleration process of the dynamic boundary is the conversion of flow energy into the kinetic energy of the annular gap flow and the kinetic energy of the pipeline car. This process is accompanied by phenomena of velocity slip and velocity overshoot. As the velocity of the pipeline car increases, the recirculating vortex within the annular gap dissipates and eventually disappears. The velocity slip gradually decreases, the location of the overshoot point shifts radially, and the magnitude of the overshoot diminishes before ultimately vanishing. From static to steady, the probability density distribution of the slipstream face transitions from a distribution with high skewness and low peak value to a normal distribution with high peak value and low skewness. The irreversible losses that arise in a sudden contraction flow field can be quantified by the increase in entropy. Due to the similarity of the solving processes of large Eddy simulation and PIV, a combined sub-grid stress model is used to solve the flow losses in the flow field. The turbulent dissipation occurs mainly in the recirculation region, shear layer, and high-speed shear regions near the wall.
CCDC134 controls TLR biogenesis through the ER chaperone Gp96
Authors: Bernaleau Léa , Drobek Michaela , Blank Fenja , Walch Philipp , Delacrétaz Maeva , Drobek Ales , Monguió-Tortajada Marta , Broz Petr , Majer Olivia , Rebsamen Manuele
Published: December 2024

Toll-like receptors (TLRs) are central to initiate immune responses against invading pathogens. To ensure host defense while avoiding aberrant activation leading to pathogenic inflammation and autoimmune diseases, TLRs are tightly controlled by multilevel regulatory mechanisms. Through a loss-of-function genetic screen in a reporter cell line engineered to undergo cell death upon TLR7-induced IRF5 activation, we identified here CCDC134 as an essential factor for TLR responses. CCDC134 deficiency impaired endolysosomal TLR-induced NF-κB, MAPK, and IRF5 activation, as well as downstream production of proinflammatory cytokines and type I interferons. We further demonstrated that CCDC134 is an endoplasmic reticulum (ER)–resident interactor of Gp96 (HSP90B1/Grp94), an ER chaperone essential for folding and trafficking of plasma membrane and endolysosomal TLRs. CCDC134 controlled Gp96 stability as its loss led to Gp96 hyperglycosylation and ER-associated protein degradation (ERAD)-mediated clearance. Accordingly, CCDC134 deficiency impaired the folding, maturation, and trafficking of TLRs, resulting in blunted inflammatory responses upon stimulation. Altogether, this study reveals CCDC134 as a central regulator of the chaperone Gp96, thereby controlling TLR biogenesis and responses.
Sensitivity functions of space-borne gravitational wave detectors under the metric gravity theory
Authors: Zhou Jing , Wang Pan-Pan , Shao Cheng-Gang
Published: December 2024

Gravitational waves (GWs) have six possible polarization modes, and whose successful detection can effectively test the gravitational properties under the strong field theory and help distinguish between different theories of gravity. Space-based GW detectors can respond differently to different polarization modes and can be used to measure the polarization states of GWs. However, during the detection process, multiple noises can swamp the faint GW signals, thus, it is essential to develop highly sophisticated experimental techniques and data processing methods to suppress the noises. For the most dominant laser frequency noise, time-delay interferometry technique is employed to construct a virtual equal-arm interferometer by performing appropriate time-delay and linear combination of data streams. This ensures the laser frequency noise is suppressed below the noise floor composed of test-mass noise and shot noise. To present the responsiveness of the detector to the polarization modes of GW signals and to clarify the corresponding characteristic regularities. In this paper, we calculate and analyze the sensitivity functions of 45 core geometric time-delay interferometry technique (TDI) combinations under the six polarization modes allowed by the metric gravity theory. The analysis is based on arbitrary second-generation TDI that can be independently linearly expanded by first-generation generators. It turns out that the sensitivity functions of 45 TDI combinations in different polarization modes are classified into exactly the same 11 categories, and there are obvious characteristic patterns in the asymptotic behavior of these sensitivity functions. These results can help to measure the GW polarization states, understand the nature of fields beyond the gravitational field, and provide some support for distinguishing gravitational theories. In addition, the sensitivity functions of multi-type TDI combinations can be applied to the parameter estimation to improve the localization accuracy of all-sky GW sources.
Critical comparison of interfacial boundary conditions in modelling plasma–liquid interaction
Authors: Heirman Pepijn , Bogaerts Annemie
Published: December 2024

Several computational models have been developed over the past decade with the goal to investigate the various processes that occur during plasma–liquid interaction. However, many different boundary conditions to describe transfer of chemical species over the gas–liquid interface have been reported in these investigations. In this work, we employ a computational model to test these various boundary conditions, and compare the results to experimental data for H2O2, O3, ·NO and HNO2, in order to assess how well these boundary conditions can describe the dissolution of different species. We show that the validity of the different formulas depends on the solubility of the investigated chemical species; they appear valid for species with high solubility (H2O2), but not for species with low (O3 and ·NO) or intermediate (HNO2) solubility. Finally, we propose an approach to reach better agreement, based on film theory in combination with the mass accommodation coefficient.