bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Fuzzy logic applied to mutation size in evolutionary strategies
Authors: Krzysztof Pytel
Published: December 2023

Tuning of algorithm parameters is a complex but very important issue in the design of Evolutionary Algorithms. This paper discusses a new concept of mutation size tuning in Evolutionary Strategies. The proposed algorithm uses data on evolutionary history in earlier generations to tune the mutation size. A Fuzzy Logic Part examines this historical data and tunes the mutation size of individuals to improve the algorithm’s convergence and its resistance to getting stuck in a local optimum. The Fuzzy Logic Part tunes the mutation size and keeps an appropriate relation of algorithm’s exploration and exploitation. The proposed concept is discussed, and several tests on Function Optimization Problems are performed. In tests, we use a set of data and functions with different difficulties recommended in the commonly used benchmarks. The results of experiments suggest that the proposed method is more efficient and resistant to getting stuck in suboptimal solutions. The proposed algorithm has been used in recognizing the type of ultra-high energy cosmic ray particle that initiates the Extensive Air Showers when hit the Earth atmosphere. It could be used for a wide range of similar problems. It is possible that the proposed method could be adapted to other types of optimization methods, inspired by natural evolution, for example, Evolutionary Algorithms.
Deep learning approach using SPECT-to-PET translation for attenuation correction in CT-less myocardial perfusion SPECT imaging
Authors: Kawakubo Masateru , Nagao Michinobu , Kaimoto Yoko , Nakao Risako , Yamamoto Atsushi , Kawasaki Hiroshi , Iwaguchi Takafumi , Matsuo Yuka , Kaneko Koichiro , Sakai Akiko , Sakai Shuji
Published: December 2023

Objective

Deep learning approaches have attracted attention for improving the scoring accuracy in computed tomography-less single photon emission computed tomography (SPECT). In this study, we proposed a novel deep learning approach referring to positron emission tomography (PET). The aims of this study were to analyze the agreement of representative voxel values and perfusion scores of SPECT-to-PET translation model-generated SPECT (SPECTSPT) against PET in 17 segments according to the American Heart Association (AHA).

Methods

This retrospective study evaluated the patient-to-patient stress, resting SPECT, and PET datasets of 71 patients. The SPECTSPT generation model was trained (stress: 979 image pairs, rest: 987 image pairs) and validated (stress: 421 image pairs, rest: 425 image pairs) using 31 cases of SPECT and PET image pairs using an image-to-image translation network. Forty of 71 cases of left ventricular base-to-apex short-axis images were translated to SPECTSPT in the stress and resting state (stress: 1830 images, rest: 1856 images). Representative voxel values of SPECT and SPECTSPT in the 17 AHA segments against PET were compared. The stress, resting, and difference scores of 40 cases of SPECT and SPECTSPT were also compared in each of the 17 segments.

Results

For AHA 17-segment-wise analysis, stressed SPECT but not SPECTSPT voxel values showed significant error from PET at basal anterior regions (segments #1, #6), and at mid inferoseptal regions (segments #8, #9, and #10). SPECT, but not SPECTSPT, voxel values at resting state showed significant error at basal anterior regions (segments #1, #2, and #6), and at mid inferior regions (segments #8, #9, and #11). Significant SPECT overscoring was observed against PET in basal-to-apical inferior regions (segments #4, #10, and #15) during stress. No significant overscoring was observed in SPECTSPT at stress, and only moderate over and underscoring in the basal inferior region (segment #4) was found in the resting and difference states.

Conclusions

Our PET-supervised deep learning model is a new approach to correct well-known inferior wall attenuation in SPECT myocardial perfusion imaging. As standalone SPECT systems are used worldwide, the SPECTSPT generation model may be applied as a low-cost and practical clinical tool that provides powerful auxiliary information for the diagnosis of myocardial blood flow.
Global navigation satellite systems’ receivers in mountain running: the elevation problem
Authors: Szot Tomasz , Sontowski Marcin
Published: December 2023

The popularity of sports and recreational receivers of the global navigation satellite systems is steadily increasing and provides athletes, coaches, and scientists with a wealth of information on movement occurring both horizontally and vertically. Under mountainous conditions, considering the effort put in by the athlete as well as their safety, the elevation parameter appears to be particularly relevant. The aim of the study was to propose a methodology for assessing sports receivers in terms of their determination of the elevation component based on digital elevation models while paying attention to the appropriate measures for testing these devices. The methodology was applied for wrist-worn global navigation satellite systems’ receivers used by the participants of an uphill running event. In terms of elevation determination, the most accurate three receivers (same model) were those supported by the barometric altimeter, in which the Root Mean Square result obtained ranged from 3.6 to 4.1 m. The majority of receivers underestimated the total elevation gain, the mean value of which was −3.8%, which does not appear to be affected by the reception of two global navigation satellite systems or the use of a barometric altimeter. The error characteristics were common within the group of receivers of a particular manufacturer.
Impact of adoption of better management practices and nutrition-sensitive training on the productivity, livelihoods and food security of small-scale aquaculture producers in Myanmar
Authors: Dompreh Eric Brako , Rossignoli Cristiano M. , Griffiths Don , Wang Quanli , Htoo Khaing Kyaw , Nway Hsu Myat , Akester Michael , Gasparatos Alexandros
Published: December 2023

Small-scale aquaculture is a major source of food in Myanmar. Beyond its importance for food security and nutrition, small-scale aquaculture contributes to the livelihoods of many rural households and is a potentially valuable strategy for rural development. However, small-scale aquaculture producers have limited access to improved production technologies and information, which hampers the productivity and socioeconomic performance of small-scale aquaculture systems. In this study we assessed the impact of the adoption of better management practices and exposure to nutrition-sensitive training by 379 small-scale aquaculture producers in the Sagaing and Shan regions of Myanmar. We focused on whether and how the exposure to these interventions affected household food security through improvements in productivity and livelihoods. We used Propensity Score Matching to compare the performance of groups that were exposed to the intervention for one or two years, for seven impact variables. Exposure to the intervention had a positive effect for most impact variables, with differentiated effects among variables, group comparisons and regions. In terms of food security, beneficiaries had significantly higher dietary diversity (measured as the Food Consumption Score, FCS), but there were no significant differences for fish self-consumption (measured in kg/week). Longer exposure to the interventions produced significantly higher positive effects across most impact variables for the 2-year beneficiaries compared to 1-year beneficiaries and control groups. Our study suggests that the length of exposure to such interventions can be important in mediating the actual impact of small-scale aquaculture systems on household food security and livelihoods. Sustained help to small-scale producers should be considered in initiatives and development projects seeking to enhance the food security and rural development of small-scale aquaculture systems in Myanmar, and beyond.
The Chemistry Behind Biological Properties of Agro-industrial Portuguese By-Products
Authors: Ferreira Sara M. , Gomes Sandra M. , Santos Lúcia
Published: December 2023

As the global population grows, food production and processing generate significant by-products that cause environmental issues. These by-products contain bioactive compounds, including phenolic compounds, which have beneficial biological properties. Extracting these compounds and incorporating them into various products, can promote circular economy. This study examined the correlation between the chemical composition and biological properties of phenolic-rich extracts from chestnut shells, grape seeds, onion peels, and passion fruit peels. Using HPLC–DAD, the primary compounds were identified and quantified. The study analysed their antioxidant, and antibacterial properties, sun protection factor, and α-amylase inhibitory capacity. Catechin was found in all four extracts, with the grapeseed extract having higher levels. Chestnut shell extract revealed the best antioxidant properties, with a total phenolic content of 497.5 mgGAE/g. On the other hand, onion peel extract exhibited the best antibacterial capacity, as well as the highest sun protection factor value (4.8). Concerning the ability to inhibit the α-amylase enzyme, all the extracts displayed the ability to inhibit more than 70% of this enzyme. Overall, the presented extracts had varying phenolic compositions and biological properties. It is crucial to evaluate the chemical composition of extracts to comprehend their biochemical properties and define their potential applications.

Graphical Abstract
Feasibility of mitigation measures for agricultural greenhouse gas emissions in the UK. A systematic review
Authors: Jebari Asma , Pereyra-Goday Fabiana , Kumar Atul , Collins Adrian L. , Rivero M. Jordana , McAuliffe Graham A.
Published: December 2023

The UK Government has set an ambitious target of achieving a national “net-zero” greenhouse gas economy by 2050. Agriculture is arguably placed at the heart of achieving net zero, as it plays a unique role as both a producer of GHG emissions and a sector that has the capacity via land use to capture carbon (C) when managed appropriately, thus reducing the concentration of carbon dioxide (CO2) in the atmosphere. Agriculture’s importance, particularly in a UK-specific perspective, which is also applicable to many other temperate climate nations globally, is that the majority of land use nationwide is allocated to farming. Here, we present a systematic review based on peer-reviewed literature and relevant “grey” reports to address the question “how can the agricultural sector in the UK reduce, or offset, its direct agricultural emissions at the farm level?” We considered the implications of mitigation measures in terms of food security and import reliance, energy, environmental degradation, and value for money. We identified 52 relevant studies covering major foods produced and consumed in the UK. Our findings indicate that many mitigation measures can indeed contribute to net zero through GHG emissions reduction, offsetting, and bioenergy production, pending their uptake by farmers. While the environmental impacts of mitigation measures were covered well within the reviewed literature, corresponding implications regarding energy, food security, and farmer attitudes towards adoption received scant attention. We also provide an open-access, informative, and comprehensive dataset for agri-environment stakeholders and policymakers to identify the most promising mitigation measures. This research is of critical value to researchers, land managers, and policymakers as an interim guideline resource while more quantitative evidence becomes available through the ongoing lab-, field-, and farm-scale trials which will improve the reliability of agricultural sustainability modelling in the future.
Revealing the mechanism and scaling laws behind equilibrium altitudes of near-ground pitching hydrofoils
Authors: Han Tianjun , Zhong Qiang , Mivehchi Amin , Quinn Daniel B. , Moored Keith W.
Published: December 2023

A classic lift decomposition (Von Kármán & Sears, J. Aeronaut. Sci., vol. 5, 1938, pp. 379–390) is conducted on potential flow simulations of a near-ground pitching hydrofoil. It is discovered that previously observed stable and unstable equilibrium altitudes are generated by a balance between positive wake-induced lift and negative quasi-steady lift while the added mass lift does not play a role. Using both simulations and experiments, detailed analyses of each lift component's near-ground behaviour provide further physical insights. When applied to three-dimensional pitching hydrofoils the lift decomposition reveals that the disappearance of equilibrium altitudes for

${A{\kern-4pt}R}\ {\rm (aspect\ ratio)} <1.5$

occurs due to the magnitude of the quasi-steady lift outweighing the magnitude of the wake-induced lift at all ground distances. Scaling laws for the quasi-steady lift, wake-induced lift and the stable equilibrium altitude are discovered. A simple scaling law for the lift of a steady foil in ground effect is derived. This scaling shows that both circulation enhancement and the velocity induced at a foil's leading edge by the bound vortex of its ground image foil are the essential physics to understand steady ground effect. The scaling laws for unsteady pitching foils can predict the equilibrium altitude to within

$20\,\%$

of its value when

$St\ {\rm (Strouhal\ number)} < 0.45$

. For

$St \ge 0.45$

there is a wake instability effect, not accounted for in the scaling relations, that significantly alters the wake-induced lift. These results not only provide key physical insights and scaling laws for steady and unsteady ground effects, but also for two schooling hydrofoils in a side-by-side formation with an out-of-phase synchronization.
Of Fernweh and Fleabites: German Female Journalists in Pursuit of Adventure, 1937–1942
Authors: Friege Katharina
Published: December 2023

This article opens up new perspectives on gendered experiences of the Nazi era by exploring three individual women as case studies for subjective interpretations of German nationalism and modernity in the late 1930s and early 1940s. It focuses on Liselotte Purper, Ilse Steinhoff, and Margret Boveri, all of them journalists and photographers from Germany who sought adventure abroad and published books and articles about their trips back home. They were independent, hardworking, and pro-Nazi regime, though their professional and political principles played out differently. In tracing how these three women navigated and narrated their international journeys, I highlight that their quest for adventure, like those of others with a similar propensity for travel, involved primarily the pursuit of independence, individuality, and historical relevance. The range of their experiences and interpretations further draws attention to the complex relationship between collective identity and individual subjectivity under Nazism.
Guiding centre motion for particles in a ponderomotive magnetostatic end plug
Authors: Rubin T. , Rax J.M. , Fisch N.J.
Published: December 2023

The Hamiltonian dynamics of a single particle in a rotating plasma column, interacting with an magnetic multipole is perturbatively solved for up to second order, using the method of Lie transformations. First, the exact Hamiltonian is expressed in terms of canonical action-angle variables, and then an approximate integrable Hamiltonian is introduced, using another set of actions and angles, which describe the centre of oscillation for the particle. The perturbation introduces an effective ponderomotive potential, which to leading order is positive. At the second order, the pseudopotential consists of a sum of terms of the Miller form, and can have either sign. Additionally, at second order, the ponderomotive interaction introduces a modification to the particle effective mass, when considering the motion along the column axis. It is found that particles can be axially confined by the ponderomotive potentials, but acquire radial excursions which scale as the confining potential. The radial excursions of the particle along its trajectory are investigated, and a condition for the minimal rotation frequency for which the particle remains radially confined is derived. Last, we comment on the changes to the aforementioned solution to the pseudopotentials and particle trajectory in the case of resonant motion, that is, a motion which has the same periodicity as the perturbation.
Seasonal Distribution of Gravity Waves Near the Stratopause in 2019–2022
Authors: Xu Shuang , Carstens Justin N. , France Jeff A. , Randall Cora E. , Yue Jia , Harvey V. Lynn , Gong Jie , Lumpe Jerry , Hoffmann Lars , Russell James M.
Published: December 2023

The cloud imaging and particle size (CIPS) instrument onboard the Aeronomy of Ice in the Mesosphere satellite provides images of gravity waves (GWs) near the stratopause and lowermost mesosphere (altitudes of 50–55 km). GW identification is based on Rayleigh Albedo Anomaly (RAA) variances, which are derived from GW‐induced fluctuations in Rayleigh scattering at 265 nm. Based on 3 years of CIPS RAA variance data from 2019 to 2022, we report for the first time the seasonal distribution of GWs entering the mesosphere with high (7.5 km) horizontal resolution on a near‐global scale. Seasonally averaged GW variances clearly show spatial and temporal patterns of GW activity, mainly due to the seasonal variation of primary GW sources such as convection, the polar vortices and flow over mountains. Measurements of stratospheric GWs derived from Atmospheric InfraRed Sounder (AIRS) observations of 4.3 μm brightness temperature perturbations within the same 3‐year time range are compared to the CIPS results. The comparisons show that locations of GW hotspots are similar in the CIPS and AIRS observations. Variability in GW variances and the monthly changes in background zonal wind suggest a strong GW‐wind correlation. This study demonstrates the utility of the CIPS GW variance data set for statistical investigations of GWs in the lowermost mesosphere, as well as provides a reference for location/time selection for GW case studies.
Thermospheric Responses to the 3 and 4 November 2021 Geomagnetic Storm During the Main and Recovery Phases as Observed by NASA's GOLD and ICON Missions
Authors: Gan Quan , Eastes Richard W. , Wu Yen‐Jung , Qian Liying , Cai Xuguang , Wang Wenbin , England Scott L. , McClintock William E.
Published: December 2023

Leveraging observations by two NASA missions—GOLD (Global‐scale Observations of the Limb and Disk) and ICON (Ionospheric Connection Explorer), we investigate concurrent responses of thermospheric composition, temperatures, and neutral winds to the geomagnetic storm on 3–4 November 2021, as well as their interplay at low and middle latitudes. The synergetic observations reveal remarkable depletions up to 60%–70% in GOLD O/N2, along with large enhancements in GOLD temperatures poleward of 30° in the middle thermosphere. Meridional winds from ICON observations are altered by ∼100 m/s equatorward of 25°N latitude and at 250 km, characterized by a reversal of prevailing northward winds to geomagnetic storm‐driven southward winds. This study fills a need, after a decade‐long gap, for observing concurrent and co‐located responses of composition, temperatures, and neutral winds in the thermosphere to geomagnetic storms.
Estimation of heat transfer coefficient and friction factor with showering of aluminum nitride and alumina water based hybrid nanofluid in a tube with twisted tape insert
Authors: Chammam Wathek , Farooq Umar , Sediqmal Mirwais , Waqas Hassan , Yasmin Sumeira , Zulfiqar Fakhar , Liu Dong , Khan Shan Ali
Published: December 2023

Twisted tape is one of the active thermal proficiency boosting technology which has been deeply examined because to consistent efficiency findings and easy implementations. Thermo-hydraulic effectiveness of tubes fitted with twisted tapes is becoming highly significant. Although twisted tapes can cause swirls and disturb boundary layers, this is the most widely used method for improving convection. In the present attempt, to enhance the heat transfer twisted tape is inserted in tube. In the current modern research, the effect of twisted tape, on the enhancement of thermal transport, Nusselt number and friction factor performance of AIN–Al2O3/water hybrid nanofluid is evaluating utilizing CFD and ANSYS-FLUENT software. the consequence of twisted pitch 44 mm, 66 mm, 88 mm, 100 mm and Reynolds numbers 800, 1200, 1600 and 2000 on Nusselt number, heat transfer coefficient and friction coefficient have been computed numerically with 0.01 to 0.04 volume friction of nanopowders. The commercial ANSYS-FLUENT code was used in this analysis utilizing the SIMPLE method for pressure–velocity coupling. The $$K - \omega$$

K
-
ω

model and Navier Stokes equations are integrating utilizing finite volume method in ANSYS-FLUENT. It was observed that inserting the twisted tape in tube significantly improves the thermal conductivity as well as friction factor compared with the simple tube without turbulator.
Prevalence and risk estimates of Cryptosporidium oocysts infection associated with consumption of raw-eaten vegetables in Maiduguri metropolis LGAs, Northeast Nigeria
Authors: Saidu A. S. , Mohammed S. , Adamu S. G. , Sadiq M. A. , Tijjani A. O. , Musa H. I. , Jajere S. M. , Goni M. D. , Muhammed A. , Idriss M. D.
Published: December 2023

Cryptosporidium is one of the most important protozoan parasitic pathogens, and it is a common cause of diarrhoea in humans, domestic animals, and wild vertebrates and has serious public health threats. A cross-sectional study was designed to determine the prevalence of Cryptosporidium oocysts in raw-eaten vegetables in Maiduguri Metropolitan Council (MMC) and Jere Local Government Areas (LGAs). A total of 400 samples were collected from four (4) different locations, namely Tashan Bama, Gomboru, and Monday Markets (n = 100), while fifty (n = 50) each from 202-Vegetable-Vendors and Unimaid Commercials. A total of 16 visits were conducted in all the sampling areas (twenty-five samples per visit). The Cryptosporidium oocysts were detected using the Modified Ziehl–Neelsen Staining Technique. The locations, sources, and types of raw-eaten vegetables were also assessed. The oocysts were confirmed (100×) as bright pink spherules. Data generated were analyzed using IBM-SPSS V23.0, and p ≤ 0.05 was considered significant. Out of the total samples (n = 400) analyzed, cabbage appeared to have the highest number of 10 (12.5%) of Cryptosporidium oocysts detected, while Tomato and garden egg had 9 (11.3%) and 1 (1.2%), respectively. There was a statistically significant association (χ2 = 12.5, P = 0.014) between the presence of Cryptosporidium oocysts in raw-eaten vegetables and vegetable types. Among the sources of the vegetables sampled, Alau had the highest number of Cryptosporidium oocysts, 15 (12.5%), followed by Kilari-Abdullahi and Zabarmari sources with 4 (10.0%) and 4 (5.0%), respectively. However, Jetete appeared to have the least number 2 (2.5%) of oocysts, and there was a statistically significant association (χ2= 10.4, P = 0.034) between the presence of Cryptosporidium oocysts and the sources of vegetables and fruits. The study concludes that the raw-eaten vegetables sampled from Maiduguri Metropolis were contaminated with Cryptosporidium oocysts. The study recommends that all raw-eaten vegetables should be from cleaned sources and washed before consumption. Consumers should be enlightened on the hygienic measures in the food chain in line with the Hazard Analysis and Critical Control Points (HACCP) principles.
Utilizing a novel high-resolution malaria dataset for climate-informed predictions with a deep learning transformer model
Authors: Pillay Micheal T. , Minakawa Noboru , Kim Yoonhee , Kgalane Nyakallo , Ratnam Jayanthi V. , Behera Swadhin K. , Hashizume Masahiro , Sweijd Neville
Published: December 2023

Climatic factors influence malaria transmission via the effect on the Anopheles vector and Plasmodium parasite. Modelling and understanding the complex effects that climate has on malaria incidence can enable important early warning capabilities. Deep learning applications across fields are proving valuable, however the field of epidemiological forecasting is still in its infancy with a lack of applied deep learning studies for malaria in southern Africa which leverage quality datasets. Using a novel high resolution malaria incidence dataset containing 23 years of daily data from 1998 to 2021, a statistical model and XGBOOST machine learning model were compared to a deep learning Transformer model by assessing the accuracy of their numerical predictions. A novel loss function, used to account for the variable nature of the data yielded performance around + 20% compared to the standard MSE loss. When numerical predictions were converted to alert thresholds to mimic use in a real-world setting, the Transformer’s performance of 80% according to AUROC was 20–40% higher than the statistical and XGBOOST models and it had the highest overall accuracy of 98%. The Transformer performed consistently with increased accuracy as more climate variables were used, indicating further potential for this prediction framework to predict malaria incidence at a daily level using climate data for southern Africa.
RENGE infers gene regulatory networks using time-series single-cell RNA-seq data with CRISPR perturbations
Authors: Ishikawa Masato , Sugino Seiichi , Masuda Yoshie , Tarumoto Yusuke , Seto Yusuke , Taniyama Nobuko , Wagai Fumi , Yamauchi Yuhei , Kojima Yasuhiro , Kiryu Hisanori , Yusa Kosuke , Eiraku Mototsugu , Mochizuki Atsushi
Published: December 2023

Single-cell RNA-seq analysis coupled with CRISPR-based perturbation has enabled the inference of gene regulatory networks with causal relationships. However, a snapshot of single-cell CRISPR data may not lead to an accurate inference, since a gene knockout can influence multi-layered downstream over time. Here, we developed RENGE, a computational method that infers gene regulatory networks using a time-series single-cell CRISPR dataset. RENGE models the propagation process of the effects elicited by a gene knockout on its regulatory network. It can distinguish between direct and indirect regulations, which allows for the inference of regulations by genes that are not knocked out. RENGE therefore outperforms current methods in the accuracy of inferring gene regulatory networks. When used on a dataset we derived from human-induced pluripotent stem cells, RENGE yielded a network consistent with multiple databases and literature. Accurate inference of gene regulatory networks by RENGE would enable the identification of key factors for various biological systems.
Cortisol sensing by optical sensors
Authors: Santonocito Rossella , Puglisi Roberta , Cavallaro Alessia , Pappalardo Andrea , Trusso Sfrazzetto Giuseppe
Published: December 2023

Cortisol sensing using molecular sensors, aptamers and antibodies was explored, focusing on important analytical parameters.
Quantum chemistry and kinetics of hydrogen sulphide oxidation
Authors: Monge-Palacios M. , Wang Q. , Alshaarawi A. , Sepulveda A. C. Cavazos , Sarathy S. M.
Published: December 2023

A fundamental understanding of the acid gas (H2S and CO2) chemistry is key to efficiently implement the desulphurisation process and even the production of clean fuels such as hydrogen or syngas.
Discerning rise time constants to quantify charge carrier extraction in perovskite solar cells
Authors: Ravishankar Sandheep , Kruppa Lennard , Jenatsch Sandra , Yan Genghua , Wang Yueming
Published: December 2023

A method is developed to extract the rise time constant from frequency domain data of perovskite solar cells, which determines the charge extraction efficiency. The results show a good agreement with those obtained from time domain measurements.
Recent progress and challenges in silicon-based anode materials for lithium-ion batteries
Authors: Toki Gazi Farhan Ishraque , Hossain M. Khalid , Rehman Waheed Ur , Manj Rana Zafar Abbas , Wang Li , Yang Jianping
Published: December 2023

This review highlights the importance of silicon-based anodes in lithium-ion batteries, emphasizing their improved performance through modifications involving binders, coatings, composites, and electrolytes.
Numerical investigation of a high-efficiency BaZrxTi1−xS3 chalcogenide perovskite solar cell
Authors: Pal Debashish , Almawgani Abdulkarem H. M. , Das Soumee , Pal Amrindra , Rahman Md. Ferdous , Alhawari Adam R. H. , Bhattarai Sagar
Published: December 2023

The potential of a BaZrxTi1−xS3-based hybrid solar cell that was expected to integrate the advantages offered by both chalcogenide and perovskite materials as absorbers was investigated in detail.
Exploring the engineered hierarchical MgO microspheres as a selective catalyst for the Claisen–Schmidt condensation reaction
Authors: Bawiskar Dipak B. , Srinivasappa Puneethkumar M. , Nikam Balasaheb L. , Kusuma Suman , Chaudhari Nitin K. , Jadhav Arvind H.
Published: December 2023

Exploring the utilization of earth-abundant metal oxide for sustainable essential organic transformation for industrial applications.
Concise approach to γ-(het)aryl- and γ-alkenyl-γ-aminobutyric acids. Synthesis of vigabatrin
Authors: Plodukhin Andrey Yu. , Boichenko Maksim A. , Andreev Ivan A. , Tarasenko Elena A. , Anisovich Kanstantsin V. , Ratmanova Nina K. , Zhokhov Sergey S. , Trushkov Igor V. , Ivanova Olga A.
Published: December 2023

One-pot transformation of readily accessible donor–acceptor cyclopropanes to γ-aminobutyric acid derivatives, which are of interest for pharmacology, including anti-epileptic drug vigabatrin, is reported.
A simple yet efficient solution for TE scattering from a right trapezoidal groove
Authors: Bozorgi Mehdi
Published: December 2023

A simple yet efficient solution to the problem of transverse electric (TE) scattering by a two‐dimensional right trapezoidal groove placed in a perfect electric conductor (PEC) surface is presented. Using superposition of plane waves and applying the Neumann boundary condition at the groove walls, the transverse magnetic field is expressed as the sums of infinite series of waveguide modes. Considering the equivalent magnetic current on the aperture, a Fredlholm's integral equation with logarithmic singular kernel is extracted and then discretised by a collocation method based on a piecewise constant approximant. The extracted linear system of equations can be easily solved by the matrix methods for the unknown coefficients. Numerous examples are presented to verify the results and show the ability of the proposed method. Finally, this method is employed to examine the effect of the groove parameters and incidence angle on the scattering signatures.
The charge‐discharge compensation pricing strategy of electric vehicle aggregator considering users response willingness from the perspective of Stackelberg game
Authors: Dong Xiaohong , Wei Xiangyu , Zu Guoqiang , Ma Yang , Yu Xiaodan , Mu Yunfei
Published: December 2023

With the rapid increase of electric vehicle (EV) ownership, the impact of EV charging load on the power grid is becoming more and more prominent. To reasonably guide EV charging/discharging to participate in Demand Response (DR) and help the power grid achieve peak cutting and valley filling, the charge‐discharge compensation pricing strategy of EV Aggregator (EVA) considering user response willingness from the perspective of Stackelberg game is proposed. Firstly, EVA, as the leader, provides charge‐discharge compensation price, to maximise its income within a day, taking into account user satisfaction constraints. Secondly, a user response willingness model is established. User engagement is used to describe the change in the number of EV responses with the change of the charge‐discharge compensation price by EVA and select the random EV set that accepts EVA charge‐discharge guidance. Finally, EV, as a follower, conducts charging/discharging behaviour to minimise the charging cost. By using the Karush–Kuhn–Tucker (KKT) condition, strong duality theory and iterative method, the strategy equilibrium solution is solved. The results show that considering the user response willingness can effectively reduce the decision risk when EVA participates in bidding. Although EVA income slightly decreases considering the response willingness, the average user satisfaction increases by 0.1.
Synthesis of Triarylpyrylium Salts Using a Mild, Eco-friendly Route
Authors: Owen Connor , Spiridopoulos Casey , Chirdon Danielle , Mills Isaac , Starvaggi Nicholas , Morrow Zachary
Published: December 2023

Pyrylium salts based on a cationic oxygen heterocycle are a key class of chromophores. However, synthesis of these salts generally requires use of harsh acids, copious organic solvents, and in many cases, hazardous conditions. This work provides a two-pot synthesis for substituted triphenyl pyrylium salts wherein chalcone intermediates are first prepared and then mild methanesulfonic acid is used in combination with a dehydrating agent to drive pyrylium cyclization. Purification is achieved through a simple, aqueous workup involving counterion metathesis which avoids the need for environmentally unfriendly organic solvents. This mild, green approach has been applied to synthesize a collection of known pyryliums as well as a new family of red-shifted pyrylium chromophores bearing p-pyrrolidinylphenyl substituents. The synthesis of the latter group demonstrates that unlike other current methods, our approach offers enhanced functional group tolerance as well as finer control over substituent placement.
Rationalizing the Regioselectivity of Azolation of Benzylic C–H Bonds under Photoredox Catalysis
Authors: Funes-Ardoiz Ignacio , Sanosa Nil , Montiel-Cervantes César , Rubio-Muñoz Miguel , Sampedro Diego
Published: December 2023

A density functional theory (DFT) study was performed to evaluate the reaction mechanism of the C–N bond formation under an integrated hydrogen atom transfer/radical-polar crossover photoredox catalytic cycle. The regioselective activation of a model substrate, including three reactive positions (3° benzylic C–H bond, 2° benzylic C–H bond, and primary C–Cl bond) was addressed to distinguish among the radical C–H activation mechanism and the standard SN2 reaction. We demonstrated that activation of tertiary benzylic C–H bond is the most favored and forms exclusively the experimentally observed product. In addition, the whole photoredox catalytic cycle, including the outer-sphere electron-transfer steps, was characterized computationally.
Chronic Pulmonary Aspergillosis: Clinical Presentation and Management
Authors: Evans Terry J. , Lawal AbdulAzeez , Kosmidis Chris , Denning David W.
Published: December 2023

Chronic pulmonary aspergillosis (CPA) refers to a number of clinical syndromes resulting from the presence and local proliferation of Aspergillus organisms in the lungs of patients with chronic lung disease. CPA is more common than was realized two decades ago. Recognition remains poor, despite recent studies from many countries highlighting the high prevalence in at-risk populations. In low- and middle-income countries, CPA may be misdiagnosed and treated as tuberculosis (TB). In addition, CPA may develop following successful TB treatment. The coronavirus disease pandemic has resulted in significant disruption to provision of TB care, likely leading to more extensive lung damage, which could increase the risk for CPA.

Although CPA refers to various syndromes, the classic presentation is that of chronic cavitary pulmonary aspergillosis, which manifests as one or more progressive cavities with or without a fungal ball, accompanied by systemic and respiratory symptoms for at least 3 months. Diagnosis relies on Aspergillus immunoglobulin G in serum, as sputum culture lacks sensitivity. Differential diagnosis includes mycobacterial infection, bacterial lung abscess or necrotizing pneumonia, lung cancer, and endemic fungi.

The aim of antifungal treatment in CPA is to improve symptoms and quality of life, and to halt progression, and possibly reverse radiological changes. Current recommendations suggest treatment for 6 months, although in practice many patients remain on long-term treatment. Improvement may manifest as weight gain and improvement of symptoms such as productive cough, hemoptysis, and fatigue. Surgical management should be considered in cases of diagnostic uncertainty, in significant hemoptysis, and when there is concern for lack of response to therapy. Itraconazole and voriconazole are the first-line azoles, with more experience now accumulating with posaconazole and isavuconazole. Side effects are frequent and careful monitoring including therapeutic drug monitoring is essential. Intravenous antifungals such as echinocandins and amphotericin B are used in cases of azole intolerance or resistance, which often develop on treatment. Relapse is seen after completion of antifungal therapy in around 20% of cases, mostly in bilateral, high-burden disease.

Several research priorities have been identified, including characterization of immune defects and genetic variants linked to CPA, pathogenetic mechanisms of Aspergillus adaptation in the lung environment, the contribution of non-fumigatus
Aspergillus species, and the role of new antifungal agents, immunotherapy, and combination therapy.
Colonic Volvulus
Authors: Savitch Samantha L. , Harbaugh Calista M.
Published: December 2023

Colonic volvulus represents 10 to 15% of all large bowel obstructions in the United States. It most commonly occurs in the sigmoid colon or cecum. Morbidity and mortality from colonic volvulus are high. It is therefore essential to have a high level of suspicion based on presentation and expedient diagnosis and management to prevent progression to ischemia or perforation. Broad goals of management include evaluation of colon viability, relief of obstruction, and prevention of recurrence. Endoscopic and surgical approaches vary based on the site of volvulus, presence of ischemia or perforation, and patient characteristics. This review outlines the epidemiology, presentation, diagnosis, and management of colonic volvulus. A contemporary diagnostic and treatment algorithm is included.
Bedside Ultrasound-Guided Percutaneous Cholecystostomy in Critically Ill Patients—Outcomes in 51 Patients
Authors: Gandhi Rozil , Gala Kunal , Shariq Mohd , Gandhi Aditi , Gandhi Manish , Shah Amit
Published: December 2023

Purpose The aim of this study was to report technical and clinical success of bedside ultrasound-guided percutaneous cholecystostomy (PC) tube placement in intensive care unit (ICU).

Materials and Methods This is a retrospective study of 51 patients (36 males:15 females, mean age: 67 years) who underwent ultrasound-guided PC from May 2015 to January 2020. The indication for cholecystostomy tube placement, comorbidities, imaging finding, technical success, clinical success, timing of surgery post-cholecystostomy tube placement, indwelling catheter time, complications, and follow-up were recorded.

Results Indications for cholecystostomy tube placement were acute calculous cholecystitis (n = 43; 84.3%), perforated cholecystitis (n = 5; 9.8%), and emphysematous cholecystitis (n = 3; 5.9%). Most of the patients had multiple comorbidities; these were diabetes mellitus, hypertension, cardiovascular disease, chronic renal disease, underlying malignancy, and multisystem disease with sepsis. All patients had undergone PC through transhepatic approach under ultrasound guidance in ICU. Technical success rate of the procedure was 100%. Clinical success rate was 92.1% (47/51) and among these 44/51 (86.2%) patients underwent definitive elective cholecystectomy, 3/51 (5.9%) patients had elective tube removal. Three of fifty-one (5.9%) patients did not improve; among these two underwent emergency surgery, while there was 1/51 (1.9%) mortality due to ongoing sepsis and multiorgan dysfunction. There were no procedure-related mortalities or procedure-related major complications. One patient had bile leak due to multiple attempts for cholecystostomy placement. Mean tube indwelling time was 13 days (range: 3–45 days).

Conclusion Ultrasound-guided PC can be safely performed in ICU in critically ill patients unfit for surgery with high technical and clinical success rates. Early laparoscopic cholecystectomy should be preferred after stabilization of clinical condition following cholecystostomy.
Modulation of magneto-dynamic properties of permalloy/holmium heterostructures with antiferromagnetic coupled interface
Authors: Tian Mingming , Chen Qian , Wong Ping Kwan Johnny , Liu Ruobai , Silly Fabien , Silly Mathieu G. , Ohresser Philippe , You Biao , Du Jun , Wee Andrew T. S. , Rojas-Sánchez Juan-Carlos , Huang Zhaocong , Zhang Wen , Zhai Ya
Published: December 2023

Magneto-dynamics and its interfacial modulation have attracted much attention in energy-efficient and nonvolatile spintronic devices. In particular, the antiferromagnetic coupling at the interface plays a crucial role in spin dynamic behaviors. In this work, we utilize rare-earth holmium (Ho) to interface with transition-metal alloy Ni80Fe20(Py) and achieve a naturally formed antiferromagnetic coupling between Py and interfacial Ho via the magnetic proximity effect, as confirmed by element-specific synchrotron radiation x-ray magnetic circular dichroism hysteresis loops. Importantly, the antiferromagnetic coupled interface is preserved even at a low temperature of 4.2 K, which is below the Curie temperature of Ho. Using ferromagnetic resonance analysis, we reveal that the Gilbert damping and the interfacial spin mixing conductance of the Py/Ho bilayers are much larger than those of the Py/Pt and Py/Pd, suggesting a superior spin transparent efficiency on such an interface with an antiferromagnetic coupling. More importantly, upon the insertion of 2-nm-thick Cu, the antiferromagnetic coupling disappears, associated with the evident suppression of Gilbert damping. This strengthens the critical role of the antiferromagnetic coupled interface in the magneto-dynamics of the transition-metal/rare-earth bilayers and provides a promising way of magneto-dynamics modulation in antiferromagnet-based devices.
An improved parameterless empirical wavelet transform for incipient fault identification of wheelset bearing
Authors: He Yong , Zhang Tao , Wang Hong
Published: December 2023

The empirical wavelet transform (EWT), along with its adaptable spectrum segmentation technique, finds extensive application in the incipient detection of rolling bearing faults. However, determining mode boundaries adaptively under strong noise interference remains a substantial challenge. Herein, an improved parameterless EWT based on the order statistics filter (OSF) is proposed to overcome this shortcoming. This approach replaces the Fourier spectrum with its envelope spectrum through OSF, and the local minima of the envelope spectrum are selected as the initial boundary to obtain the initial empirical modes. Furthermore, the adjacent initial empirical modes are combined using Pearson’s correlation coefficient, and the final number and boundaries of empirical modes are automatically determined using the mean envelope entropy. The advantages of the proposed method are demonstrated through an accelerated degradation bearing test bench and a wheelset-bearing test bench, as well as by comparing it with empirical mode decomposition (EMD), ensemble empirical mode decomposition (EEMD), and Autogram.
Hydrogen irradiation-driven computational surface chemistry of lithium oxide and hydroxide
Authors: Krstic P. S. , Dwivedi S. , Ostrowski E. T. , Abe S. , Maan A. , van Duin A. C. T. , Koel B. E.
Published: December 2023

We have investigated, using molecular dynamics, the surface chemistry of hydrogen incident on the amorphous and crystalline lithium oxide and lithium hydroxide surfaces upon being slowed down by a collision cascade and retained in the amorphous surface of either Li2O or LiOH. We looked for the bonding of H to the resident structures in the surface to understand a possible chain of chemical reactions that can lead to surface transformation upon H atom impact. Our findings, using Density-Functional Theory (DFT) trained ReaxFF force field/electronegativity equalization method potentials, stress the importance of inclusion of polarization in the dynamics of a Li–O–H system, which is also illustrated by DFT energy minimization and quantum–classical molecular dynamics using tight binding DFT. The resulting polar-covalent chemistry of the studied systems is complex and very sensitive to the instantaneous positions of all atoms as well as the ratio of concentrations of various resident atoms in the surface.
Beyond the Condon limit: Condensed phase optical spectra from atomistic simulations
Authors: Wiethorn Zachary R. , Hunter Kye E. , Zuehlsdorff Tim J. , Montoya-Castillo Andrés
Published: December 2023

While dark transitions made bright by molecular motions determine the optoelectronic properties of many materials, simulating such non-Condon effects in condensed phase spectroscopy remains a fundamental challenge. We derive a Gaussian theory to predict and analyze condensed phase optical spectra beyond the Condon limit. Our theory introduces novel quantities that encode how nuclear motions modulate the energy gap and transition dipole of electronic transitions in the form of spectral densities. By formulating the theory through a statistical framework of thermal averages and fluctuations, we circumvent the limitations of widely used microscopically harmonic theories, allowing us to tackle systems with generally anharmonic atomistic interactions and non-Condon fluctuations of arbitrary strength. We show how to calculate these spectral densities using first-principles simulations, capturing realistic molecular interactions and incorporating finite-temperature, disorder, and dynamical effects. Our theory accurately predicts the spectra of systems known to exhibit strong non-Condon effects (phenolate in various solvents) and reveals distinct mechanisms for electronic peak splitting: timescale separation of modes that tune non-Condon effects and spectral interference from correlated energy gap and transition dipole fluctuations. We further introduce analysis tools to identify how intramolecular vibrations, solute–solvent interactions, and environmental polarization effects impact dark transitions. Moreover, we prove an upper bound on the strength of cross correlated energy gap and transition dipole fluctuations, thereby elucidating a simple condition that a system must follow for our theory to accurately predict its spectrum.
Effects of metasurface geometry on magnetic dipole resonances for circular asymmetric transmission in the ultraviolet region
Authors: Lee Ying-Tsung , Wang Zhiyu , Ho Ya-Lun , Chen Mu-Hsin , Delaunay Jean-Jacques
Published: December 2023

Manipulation of circularly polarized light (CPL) in the ultraviolet (UV) region holds significant potential for advancing chiral molecules sensing. Recently, chiral metasurfaces have been applied to control CPL in the UV region. However, the spectral selectivity of the existing UV chiral metasurfaces is still limited. Here, we report rod-shaped and ring-shaped metasurfaces sustaining perpendicularly aligned magnetic dipoles (MDs) and capable of inducing narrowband transmission dips. These MDs can be selectively excited in an eccentric ring-shaped metasurface by left-handed and right-handed circularly polarized lights. By exploiting this phenomenon, the selective asymmetric transmission of CPL with opposite handedness within the UV region is reported. A circular asymmetric transmission with a transmittance dissymmetry factor as high as 1.56 and a narrow full width at half maximum of 1.2 nm is achieved.