bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Optimizing casting process using a combination of small data machine learning and phase-field simulations
Authors: Pei Xiaolong , Pei Jiaqi , Hou Hua , Zhao Yuhong
Published: February 2025

It has been a challenge to employ machine learning (ML) to optimize casting processes due to the scarcity of data and difficulty in feature expansion. Here, we introduce a nearest neighbor search method to optimize the stratified random sampling in Latin hypercube sampling (LHS) and propose a new revised LHS coupled with Bayesian optimization (RLHS-BO). Using this method, we optimized the squeeze-casting process for mine fuel tank partition castings for the first time with an ultra-small dataset of 25 samples. Compared to traditional methods such as random sampling, interval sampling, orthogonal design (OD), and central composite design (CCD), our approach covers the process parameter space more, reduces the data volume by approximately 50%, and achieves process optimization beyond five factors-five levels with fewer data. Through RLHS and 6 iterations of experiments, the optimal process was identified, and the ultimate tensile strength (UTS) of partition casting under the optimal process reached 239.7 MPa, with an elongation (EL) of 12.2%, showing increases of 17.6% and 18.4% over the optimal values in the initial dataset. Finally, a combination of Shapley additive interpretation (SHAP) and phase-field method (PFM) of solidification dendrite growth was used to address the issue of weak physical interpretability in ML models.
Promoter-proximal RNA polymerase II termination regulates transcription during human cell type transition
Authors: Lysakovskaia Kseniia , Devadas Arjun , Schwalb Björn , Lidschreiber Michael , Cramer Patrick
Published: February 2025

Metazoan gene transcription by RNA polymerase II (Pol II) is regulated in the promoter-proximal region. Pol II can undergo termination in the promoter-proximal region but whether this can contribute to transcription regulation in cells remains unclear. Here we extend our previous multiomics analysis to quantify changes in transcription kinetics during a human cell type transition event. We observe that upregulation of transcription involves an increase in initiation frequency and, at a set of genes, a decrease in promoter-proximal termination. In turn, downregulation of transcription involves a decrease in initiation frequency and an increase in promoter-proximal termination. Thus, promoter-proximal termination of Pol II contributes to the regulation of human gene transcription.
SIBES: Long-term and large-scale monitoring of intertidal macrozoobenthos and sediment in the Dutch Wadden Sea
Authors: Bijleveld Allert I. , de la Barra Paula , Danielson-Owczynsky Hailley , Brunner Livia , Dekinga Anne , Holthuijsen Sander , ten Horn Job , de Jong Anne , Kleine Schaars Loran , Kooij Adrienne , Koolhaas Anita , Kressin Hidde , van Leersum Felianne , Miguel Simone , de Monte Luc G. G. , Mosk Dennis , Niamir Amin , Oude Luttikhuis Dorien , Peck Myron A. , Piersma Theunis , Roohi Reyhaneh , Serre-Fredj Léon , Tacoma Marten , van Weerlee Evaline , de Wit Bas , Bom Roeland A.
Published: February 2025

The Wadden Sea is the world’s largest intertidal area and a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Macrozoobenthic invertebrates perform key ecological functions within intertidal areas by regulating nutrient cycles, decomposing organic matter, and providing food for fish, birds and humans. To understand ecological processes and human impacts on biodiversity, the Synoptic Intertidal BEnthic Survey (SIBES) has sampled intertidal macrozoobenthos since 2008. On average 4,109 stations across 1,200 km² of Dutch Wadden Sea mudflats are sampled from June to October to quantify the benthic invertebrate community and sediment composition, including species abundance and biomass, and grain size and mud content. The dataset published now contains 51,851 sampled stations with 3,034,760 individuals of 177 species. This paper details data collection, validation and processing methods. SIBES is ongoing and data will be updated yearly. In sharing these data, we hope to enhance collaborations and understanding of the impact of various pressures on macrozoobenthic invertebrates, sediment composition, food webs, the ecosystem, and biodiversity in the Wadden Sea and other intertidal habitats.
An optimized detection model for micro-terrain around transmission lines
Authors: Yi Feng , Hu Chunchun
Published: February 2025

Detecting micro-terrain is essential for the effective layout and maintenance of transmission lines. To address the issues of detection incompleteness, classification ambiguity, and inefficiency in traditional methods, particularly the challenge of distinguishing between saddle and canyon micro-terrain, this paper optimizes the calculation of micro-terrain features and the strategy of micro-terrain detection, and explores a detection method of micro-terrain around transmission lines based on the GPU parallel random forest. This paper employs the GPU parallel random forest model as the extraction framework, leveraging the computational speed advantage of GPU parallel technology for handling large datasets and the robustness inherent in the ensemble approach of random forests. The DEM data of 49 transmission lines in the study area was used for micro-terrain detection experiments. Most of these 49 routes are situated in mountainous regions with complex terrain and contain diverse micro-terrain categories along their paths, rendering them highly representative. The experimental results demonstrate that the proposed method effectively identifies atypical micro-terrain types and four typical micro-terrain types—saddle, canyon, alpine watershed, and uplift—with a classification accuracy of 97.96% and a Kappa coefficient of 0.974. Compared to the traditional method, which achieves a classification accuracy of 75.19% and a Kappa coefficient of 0.642, the proposed method demonstrates a clear improvement in performance. Moreover, by employing the parallel model, the acceleration ratios for training and classification reach 50.57 and 109.06, respectively, significantly improving the efficiency of micro-terrain detection for large-scale regions. These findings could significantly enhance transmission line maintenance and layout planning by providing more accurate micro-terrain data, enabling better decision-making and resource allocation for infrastructure development and disaster risk mitigation.
Artificial intelligence support improves diagnosis accuracy in anterior segment eye diseases
Authors: Maehara Hiroki , Ueno Yuta , Yamaguchi Takefumi , Kitaguchi Yoshiyuki , Miyazaki Dai , Nejima Ryohei , Inomata Takenori , Kato Naoko , Chikama Tai-ichiro , Ominato Jun , Yunoki Tatsuya , Tsubota Kinya , Oda Masahiro , Suzutani Manabu , Sekiryu Tetsuju , Oshika Tetsuro
Published: February 2025

CorneAI, a deep learning model designed for diagnosing cataracts and corneal diseases, was assessed for its impact on ophthalmologists’ diagnostic accuracy. In the study, 40 ophthalmologists (20 specialists and 20 residents) classified 100 images, including iPhone 13 Pro photos (50 images) and diffuser slit-lamp photos (50 images), into nine categories (normal condition, infectious keratitis, immunological keratitis, corneal scar, corneal deposit, bullous keratopathy, ocular surface tumor, cataract/intraocular lens opacity, and primary angle-closure glaucoma). The iPhone and slit-lamp images represented the same cases. After initially answering without CorneAI, the same ophthalmologists responded to the same cases with CorneAI 2–4 weeks later. With CorneAI’s support, the overall accuracy of ophthalmologists increased significantly from 79.2 to 88.8% (P < 0.001). Specialists’ accuracy rose from 82.8 to 90.0%, and residents’ from 75.6 to 86.2% (P < 0.001). Smartphone image accuracy improved from 78.7 to 85.5% and slit-lamp image accuracy from 81.2 to 90.6% (both, P < 0.001). In this study, CorneAI’s own accuracy was 86%, but its support enhanced ophthalmologists’ accuracy beyond the CorneAI’s baseline. This study demonstrated that CorneAI, despite being trained on diffuser slit-lamp images, effectively improved diagnostic accuracy, even with smartphone images.
Bipolar electrochemistry-driven wireless drug loading and energy harvesting in conductive hybrid hydrogels
Authors: Da Silva Aruã Clayton , Hu Xiaofeng , Paschoal Vitor Hugo , Hagis Nicholas , Zajac Agnieszka Joanna , Ribeiro Mauro Carlos Costa , Minev Ivan Rusev
Published: February 2025

Bipolar electrochemistry enables wireless and spatially controlled redox reactions on (semi)conductive objects immersed in an electrolyte. Here, we investigate advanced bipolar electrochemistry applications using flexible bipolar electrodes coated with hybrid films of conductive polymer poly(3,4-ethylenedioxythiophene) and alginate hydrogels. These coatings allow for the wireless creation of reversible redox and chemical gradients, providing targeted drug loading and energy harvesting opportunities. We use cyclic voltammetry, electrochemical impedance spectroscopy, Raman microscopy, and X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy to characterize distinct redox regions within the bipolar electrode. The wireless and selective loading of a model drug, fluorescein, into the hydrogel, demonstrated control over drug distribution, suggesting an alternative to conventional uniform doping techniques. Furthermore, cutting the gradient-encoded bipolar electrode and closing an external circuit between the halves, enables energy recovery through a concentration cell mechanism. Our findings illustrate the potential of bipolar electrochemistry in creating versatile platforms that bridge materials science, electrochemistry, and bioelectronics for innovative biomedical and energy applications.
Fully bio-based cellulose ester synthesis from natural aldehydes via aerobic oxidation
Authors: Hirose Daisuke , Ina Daiki , Yoshizawa Akina , Kusuma Samuel Budi Wardhana , Nishio Masaki , Wada Naoki , Takahashi Kenji
Published: February 2025

This study presents a novel synthetic method to synthesize fully bio-based cellulose esters from natural aldehydes in a multi-functional ionic liquid (as a solvent for cellulose and as an esterification and oxidation catalyst) in atmospheric oxygen.
Co-MOF-derived carbon nanomaterials with size-controlled FeCo alloys for oxygen evolution
Authors: Chen Junliang , Ye Yunan , Wu Yi , Liu Jie , Zhou Xuemei , Li Qipeng , Qian Jinjie
Published: February 2025

A porous Co-MOF-derived carbon material with size-controlled FeCo nanoparticles, modified by an Fe3+-etching process and carbon nanotube growth, was obtained as an enhanced OER catalyst.
Proton transport in liquid phosphoric acid: the role of nuclear quantum effects revealed by neural network potential
Authors: Liu Pei , Li Wei , Li Shuhua
Published: February 2025

Pure phosphoric acid exhibits high proton conductivity and is widely used in modern industry.
Long-term treatment of fucoxanthin prevents cognitive impairments and neuroinflammation via the inhibition of Nogo-A in APP/PS1 transgenic mice
Authors: Jiang Yujie , Chen Huiyue , Xu Jiayi , Le Jingyang , Rong Wenni , Zhu Zengyu , Chen Yuan , Hu Chenwei , Cai Jinhan , Hong Yirui , Huang Shangwei , Zheng Meilin , Zhang Xinyu , Zhou Chenhui , Zhang Jinrong , He Shan , Yan Xiaojun , Cui Wei
Published: February 2025

Alzheimer's disease (AD) is a progressive neurodegenerative disorder characterized by neuroinflammation and cognitive impairments. Although short-term treatment of fucoxanthin, a marine carotenoid with anti-neuroinflammation activity, was reported to prevent cognitive...
Electrochromic thin films of tungsten oxide with high-exposure (002) crystal faces doped and modulated with cerium acetate
Authors: Nie Shanshan , Wang Chengyi , Zhou Miao , Lian Yi , Liu Jie , Ruan Mengnan , Liu Zhifeng
Published: February 2025

A cerium acetate-doped WO3 film was prepared, forming Ce–O bonds that increase (002) face exposure, while acetate ions improve structural stability and electrochemical properties, enhancing the electrochromic effect.
C-2 fluorinated castanospermines as potent and specific α-glucosidase inhibitors: synthesis and structure–activity relationship study
Authors: Li Yi-Xian , Zhang Ming , Shimadate Yuna , Kato Atsushi , Wang Jun-Zhe , Jia Yue-Mei , Fleet George W. J. , Yu Chu-Yi
Published: February 2025

Nine C-1 and C-2 fluorinated castanospermines were synthesized efficiently, and the C-2 fluorinated derivatives were found to be potent and specific α-glucosidase inhibitors, owing to fluorine-induced reestablishment of docking modes in the enzyme.
Ultrathin two-dimensional mesoporous holmium oxide nanosheet-stabilized copper nanoparticles for stable and efficient electrocatalytic semi-hydrogenation of acetylene
Authors: Li Huawei , He Miao , Meng Senyao , Wang Ping , Yang Cheng , Yao Jiasai , Hu Zikang , Li Zhenxing
Published: February 2025

Ultrathin two-dimensional mesoporous holmium oxide nanosheet-stabilized copper nanoparticles for the electrocatalytic semi-hydrogenation of C2H2 were prepared through a simple and one-step high-temperature calcination-reduction method.
Solvation and temperature-modulated supramolecular assembly of amphiphilic water-soluble Schiff base-containing platinum(ii) complexes
Authors: Zhang Huilan , Chan Michael Ho-Yeung , Lam Jonathan , Leung Ming-Yi , Wu Lixin , Yam Vivian Wing-Wah
Published: February 2025

Water-soluble platinum(ii) Schiff base complexes self-assemble into nanorods via a cooperative growth mechanism, with an unusual thermo-responsive behavior corresponding to morphological transformation into spherical structures after heat treatment.
Efficient descriptors for the design of high-performance Ni-based catalysts modified with electronic inducers for the hydrogenation of 1,4-butynediol
Authors: Chen Zhou , Hai Xueqing , Geng Xiangdong , Shi Hu , Zhao Yongxiang , Wang Changzhen
Published: February 2025

EII modulated the Δd of Ni sites, optimized the intermediates' adsorption conformation and reduced the energy barriers for hydrogenation.
A light-driven molecular motor-polypeptide conjugate supports controlled cell uptake
Authors: Pegoraro Camilla , Guinart Ainoa , Masiá Sanchis Esther , Doellerer Daniel , Stuart Marc C. A. , Conejos-Sánchez Inmaculada , Feringa Ben L. , Vicent María J.
Published: February 2025

A light-driven molecular motor-polypeptide conjugate links a molecular motor to a mitochondria-targeted polyglutamate. Upon 405 nm light irradiation, it shifts from micelles to worm-like structures, boosting cellular uptake and specificity.
Decomposable STING nanoagonist-amplified oncolytic virotherapy through remodeling the immunosuppressive microenvironment of triple-negative breast cancer
Authors: Mu Min , Wang Guoqing , Chen Bo , Li Hui , Feng Chenqian , Fan Rangrang , Chen Nianyong , Han Bo , Tong Aiping , Zou Bingwen , Guo Gang
Published: February 2025

Novel targeted nanoparticles (OV-MnO2/HE) were prepared by coating OVs with a MnO2 biomineral shell and targeting materials of HA-EGCG, enabling a synergetic therapy of OVs and the STING pathway for triple-negative breast cancer therapy.
A thermoresponsive PEG-based methacrylate triblock terpolymer as a bioink for 3D bioprinting
Authors: Zhang Kaiwen , Constantinou Anna P. , O’Connell Cathal , Georgiou Theoni K. , Gelmi Amy
Published: February 2025

Bioprinting using an in-house synthesised, tailorable, cost-effective, and thermoresponsive ABC triblock copolymer.
Charge distribution and aromaticity in protonated urazole
Authors: Nitzer Alexander , Jessen Christoph , Kornath Andreas J.
Published: February 2025

Mono- and diprotonation of urazole was achieved. The salts were isolated and characterized by spectroscopic methods and X-ray crystallography. N, C or O – localization and distribution of charge was investigated by quantum chemical calculations.
NiPt catalysts for the synthesis of iso-butanol: the influence of molar ratio and total metal loading on activity and stability
Authors: Pasel Joachim , Häusler Johannes , Peters Ralf , Stolten Detlef
Published: February 2025

The influence of the molar ratio of Ni to Pt and the total metal loading of Ni + Pt of activated carbon supported NiPt catalysts on their catalytic behavior during isobutanol synthesis from mixtures of ethanol and methanol was investigated.
Hearing Loss, Difficulty With Activities of Daily Living, and Experience of Consequences of Related Unmet Needs in Older Adults: A Cross-Sectional Analysis
Authors: Bessen Sarah , Garcia Morales Emmanuel E. , Zhang Wuyang , Martinez-Amezcua Pablo , Umoh Mfon , Cudjoe Thomas K. M. , Schrack Jennifer A. , Reed Nicholas S.
Published: February 2025

Purpose:

Experiencing difficulty with activities of daily living (ADLs) and instrumental ADLs (IADLs) and/or the consequences of unmet ADL/IADL-related needs is associated with adverse health-related outcomes. The association of hearing loss (HL) with experiencing the consequences of unmet ADL/IADL-related needs is not well understood. We investigated the associations of HL with experiencing ADL/IADL difficulties and the consequences of unmet ADL/IADL-related needs in older adults.

Method:

We investigated cross-sectional associations between audiometric HL, the number of ADL and IADL difficulties, and the number of consequences of unmet ADL/IADL-related needs among adults aged 65 years and older in the National Health and Aging Trends Study.

Results:

In 4,724 older adults, 30.5% (
n
= 1,736) and 30.9% (
n
= 1,727) had self-reported difficulty with ADLs and IADLs, respectively. Of the 2,289 participants who reported difficulty with at least one ADL/IADL, 14.0% (
n
= 741) reported experience of at least one consequence of an unmet ADL/IADL-related need. In multivariable ordinal regression analyses, mild (
OR
= 1.38, 95% CI [1.1, 1.73]) and moderate or greater (
OR
= 1.57, 95% CI [1.17, 2.1]) HL were associated with higher odds of difficulties with additional ADLs. Moderate or greater HL was associated with higher odds of reporting difficulties with additional IADLs (
OR
= 1.59, 95% CI [1.19, 2.12]). There was no significant association between HL and higher odds of having additional consequences of unmet needs.

Conclusions:

Our results show an association between HL and a higher number of ADL and IADL difficulties. Adults with HL may require increased support to address difficulties with daily activities and prevent experiencing related consequences.

Supplemental Material:

https://doi.org/10.23641/asha.28300049
Controlling semantics of diffusion‐augmented data for unsupervised domain adaptation
Authors: Ridley Henrietta , Alcover‐Couso Roberto , SanMiguel Juan C.
Published: February 2025

Unsupervised domain adaptation (UDA) offers a compelling solution to bridge the gap between labelled synthetic data and unlabelled real‐world data for training semantic segmentation models, given the high costs associated with manual annotation. However, the visual differences between the synthetic and real images pose significant challenges to their practical applications. This work addresses these challenges through synthetic‐to‐real style transfer leveraging diffusion models. The authors’ proposal incorporates semantic controllers to guide the diffusion process and low‐rank adaptations (LoRAs) to ensure that style‐transferred images align with real‐world aesthetics while preserving semantic layout. Moreover, the authors introduce quality metrics to rank the utility of generated images, enabling the selective use of high‐quality images for training. To further enhance reliability, the authors propose a novel loss function that mitigates artefacts from the style transfer process by incorporating only pixels aligned with the original semantic labels. Experimental results demonstrate that the authors’ proposal outperforms selected state‐of‐the‐art methods for image generation and UDA training, achieving optimal performance even with a smaller set of high‐quality generated images. The authors’ code and models are available at http://www‐vpu.eps.uam.es/ControllingSem4UDA/.
MultiF‐RSNet: Distributed interpretation for multi‐platform collaborative in remote sensing
Authors: Zhang Luning , Lu Xue , He Yuanchun , Sun Zheng , Duan Shujing , Zhao Liangjin
Published: February 2025

Advances in remote sensing technology have significantly improved the on‐orbit processing capabilities of satellites. A distributed collaborative inference approach for multi‐platform remote sensing is introduced. This method leverages the synergy of multiple platforms to enhance inference precision. Initially, a feature compression module is implemented to reduce data transmission demands. Subsequently, a multi‐layer feature fusion module is employed to integrate features from various platforms. Simulation experiments on public datasets confirm that our multi‐platform collaborative object detection algorithm outperforms single‐platform independent inference, validating its effectiveness.
Research on double transistor open circuit fault diagnosis of T‐type three level rectifier based on mixed logical dynamical model
Authors: Wang Jianyuan , Liu Yuxiang , Yuan Dongsheng , Liu Cong , Zuo Kaiyue
Published: February 2025

The T‐type three‐level rectifier has garnered significant attention due to its ability to enhance the voltage waveform quality in power systems and reduce electromagnetic interference with other equipment. To ensure high reliability in high‐power wind and photovoltaic power generation systems, conducting fault diagnosis for T‐type three‐level rectifiers is crucial. This paper first analyzes the input current characteristics of both in‐phase and out‐of‐phase dual transistor open‐circuit faults. A current‐extended observer is developed using a hybrid logic dynamic model to estimate the current value during normal operation. The residual state equation is derived by comparing this estimated current with the actual fault current. A residual information table for fault currents is created through differential solutions of the residual state equation, enabling fault localisation by comparing the residual information against predefined threshold values. Finally, the feasibility and accuracy of the proposed fault diagnosis method are validated through simulations and experiments.
Formation of twin compact stars in low-mass X-ray binaries
Authors: Chanlaridis S. , Ohse D. , Alvarez-Castillo D. E. , Antoniadis J. , Blaschke D. , Danchev V. , Langer N. , Misra D.
Published: February 2025

Context. Millisecond pulsars (MSPs) are laboratories for stellar evolution, strong gravity, and ultra-dense matter. Although MSPs are thought to originate in low-mass X-ray binaries (LMXBs), approximately 27% do not have a binary companion, and others are found in systems with large orbital eccentricities. Understanding how these systems form may provide insight into the internal properties of neutron stars (NSs).

Aims. We studied the formation of a twin compact star through rapid first-order phase transitions in NS cores due to mass accretion in LMXBs. We investigated whether this mechanism, possibly coupled with secondary kick mechanisms such as neutrino or electromagnetic rocket effects, leaves an observable long-lasting imprint on the orbit.

Methods. We simulated mass accretion in LMXBs consisting of a NS and a low-mass main-sequence companion and followed the evolution of the NS mass, radius, and spin until a strong phase transition is triggered. For the internal NS structure, we assumed a multi-polytrope equation of state that allows a sharp phase transition from hadronic to quark matter and satisfies observational constraints.

Results. We find that in compact binary systems with relatively short pre-Roche lobe overflow orbital periods, an accretion-induced phase transition can occur during the LMXB phase. In contrast, in binary systems with wider orbits, this transition can take place during the spin-down phase, leading to the formation of an eccentric binary MSP. If the transition is accompanied by a secondary kick with a magnitude > 20 km s−1, then the binary has a high probability of being disrupted, thereby forming an isolated MSP, or being reconfigured into an ultra-wide orbit.

Conclusions. Our findings suggest that accretion in LMXBs provides a viable path for the formation of twin compact stars that could leave a long-lived and thus observable imprint on the orbit. The eccentricity distribution of binary MSPs with long orbital periods (> 50 d) can provide stringent constraints on first-order phase transitions in dense nuclear matter.
Scattered synchrotron emission and a giant torus revealed in polarized light in the nearest radio galaxy Centaurus A*
Authors: Marin F. , Hutsemekers D. , Jiang C.-Z. , Antonucci R. , Ogle P.M. , Bagul A. , Ramos Almeida C. , Berton M.
Published: February 2025

Centaurus A (Cen A) is the closest radio galaxy and a prime example of a low-luminosity active galactic nucleus (AGN), exhibiting complex emissions across the electromagnetic spectrum. The nature of its continuum emission, particularly the mechanisms powering it, has been a subject of considerable debate due to the fact that the AGN is deeply buried in dust and therefore not directly observable. This study aims to elucidate the origin of the continuum emission in Cen A and determine the geometrical arrangement of matter in the nuclear region by the mean of optical and near-infrared spectropolarimetry. We obtained spectropolarimetric data of Cen A using the VLT/FORS2, covering the 6100 -- 10300 Å spectral range with an effective resolving power of about 1000. Analysis was conducted on several regions near the obscured AGN, examining total and polarized fluxes, in order to find signatures of the AGN in scattered light. The analysis revealed a region showing strong and narrow emission lines associated with AGN activity. After correction for interstellar polarization in the dust lane (but not for starlight), the intrinsic polarization of the scattered AGN light exhibits a polarization degree of 2 -- 4%, decreasing from optical to near-infrared, associated with a polarization position angle perpendicular to the radio jet axis. We exclude the presence of a hidden broad line in our polarized flux spectrum at ge 99% probability. Narrow emission lines are found to be strongly polarized and orthogonal to the jet position angle. We demonstrate that a beamed synchrotron jet, scattering onto the narrow line region (NLR) best fits all the observational properties reported in this paper and the literature. In this model, the base of the NLR is obscured by a giant (ge 10 pc) circumnuclear region and can only become visible through perpendicular scattering onto the outermost part of the NLR, naturally producing high polarization degrees and polarization angles perpendicular to the radio structure. This study provides strong evidence that Cen A defines a new class of hidden-NLR AGNs in which two other objects naturally find their place (NGC 4258 and 3C 270) and this supports old predictions that beamed synchrotron jets can be observed in reflection. Future surveys should focus on identifying similar hidden-NLR AGNs, especially among misdirected BL Lac AGNs.
Emergence of magnetic flux sheets in the quiet Sun. I. Statistical properties
Authors: Díaz-Castillo S.M. , Fischer C.E. , Moreno-Insertis F. , Guglielmino S.L. , Ishikawa R. , Criscuoli S.
Published: February 2025

Small-scale magnetic flux emergence in the quiet Sun is crucial for maintaining solar magnetic activity. On the smallest scales studied so far, namely within individual granules, two mechanisms have been identified: emergence in tiny magnetic loops and emergence in the form of magnetic flux sheets covering the granule. While there are abundant observations of tiny magnetic loops within granules, the evidence for the emergence of granule-covering magnetic sheets is much more limited. This work aims to statistically analyse magnetic flux sheets, quantify their frequency on the solar surface and their potential contribution to the solar magnetic budget in the photosphere, and investigate the plasma dynamics and granular-scale phenomena associated with their emergence. Using spectro-polarimetric datasets taken along the Fe I 630.15 and 630.25,nm photospheric lines from the solar optical telescope aboard the Hinode satellite and the Fe I 630.15, 630.25,nm, and 617.3,nm ones from the ground-based Swedish Solar telescope, we developed a two-step method to identify magnetic flux sheet emergence events, detecting magnetic flux patches based on the calculation of the transverse and longitudinal magnetic flux density and associating them with their host granules based on velocity field analysis. We identified 42 events of magnetic flux sheet emergence and characterised their magnetic properties and the associated plasma dynamics of their host granules. Our results align with numerical simulations, indicating a similar occurrence rate of approximately 0.3 events per day per Mm^2. We investigated the relationship between magnetic flux emergence and granular phenomena, finding that flux sheets often emerge in association with standard nascent granules, as well as exploding granules, or granules with granular lanes. In particular, we highlight the potential role of recycled magnetic flux from downflow regions in facilitating flux sheet emergence. Our analysis suggests that the magnetic flux sheet events could be considered part of the larger component of the distribution of small-scale magnetic flux that feeds the solar atmosphere in quiet Sun regions.
Research and management of the charging system for the main blast furnaces at Ansteel
Authors: Shao Siwei , Sun Minmin , Liu Jian
Published: February 2025

Based on the 8 main blast furnaces at Ansteel, a database was established using charging system parameters and blast furnace smelting parameters to conduct correlation studies. The effects of specific blast furnace charging parameters on furnace performance were analyzed, revealing the influence patterns of edge coke load, drop point distance, and ore-free zone proportion. A comprehensive management system for the charging process was developed, translating the burden matrix into a set of characteristic parameters. By defining control intervals for these parameters, the system enhances the precision and effectiveness of charge regulation, ensuring a more scientifically optimized charging operation. After implementation in 2022, the economic indicators of the blast furnace group showed significant improvement, with the overall fuel consumption per ton of molten iron decreasing by 5 kg/t compared to 2021.
Factors affecting the hearth activity of blast furnace and corresponding measures
Authors: Yao Kuo , Deng Yong , Liu Ran , Liu Lu , Gao Yanjia , Liu Yanting
Published: February 2025

To improve the hearth activity and provide a theoretical basis for the blast furnace (BF) smooth operation, this paper introduced indirect indicators of hearth activity, such as the descent of burden, fluctuations in air volume and pressure, hearth temperature, iron tapping conditions, and the heat of slag iron. The factors influencing hearth activity were analyzed, primarily focusing on the permeability provided by deadman, the viscosity of slag iron, and the position and size of the tuyere raceway. Control measures for hearth activity were summarized, including adjusting the permeability provided by deadman by controlling the particle size distribution and strength of coke. Maintaining the appropriate viscosity of slag iron by controlling the temperature of slag iron, the binary alkalinity of slag, the magnesia-to-alumina ratio, and the elemental content of sulfur, silicon, manganese, and titanium in the iron. Adjusting the position of the tuyere raceway by controlling parameters such as air volume, air pressure, tuyere area, and oxygen enrichment rate. Finally, it was concluded that providing more permeability channels through deadman, maintaining the viscosity of slag iron within a suitable range, and promoting the development of the tuyere raceway towards the lower and central parts of the furnace are all beneficial for improving hearth activity.
Structural characterizations of tree $t$-spanners for graphs with few $P_4$'s and $(0,\ell)$-graphs
Authors: Felipe Cunha Luís , Couto Fernanda , Ferraz Diego
Published: February 2025

A tree $t$-spanner of a graph $G$ is a spanning tree $T$ in which the distance between any two adjacent vertices of $G$ is at most $t$. The smallest $t$ for which $G$ has a tree $t$-spanner is called the tree stretch index of $G$, denoted by $\sigma_T(G) = t$. The objective of the $t$-{\sc admissibility} problem is to determine whether the tree stretch index of a graph, denoted by $\sigma_T(G)$, is less than or equal to a given value $t$. Given a graph with $n$ vertices and $m$ edges, the recognition of $2$-admissible graphs can be accomplished in $O(n+m)$ time. In contrast, $t$-{\sc admissibility} is NP-complete for $t \geq 4$. Furthermore, determining whether $t = 3$ remains an open problem, despite more than two decades of research. Given the pivotal role structural knowledge plays in classifying the complexity of $3$-{\sc admissibility}, this paper presents structural characterizations that yield simpler and faster algorithms for checking $2$ and $3$-{\sc admissibility} in families of graphs with few $P_4$'s and $(k,\ell)$-graphs. Furthermore, with regard to $(0,\ell)$-graphs, we present lower and upper bounds on the tree stretch index of these graphs and characterize graphs whose tree stretch indexes are equal to the proposed upper bound. Finally, we prove that $t$-{\sc admissibility} is NP-complete even for line graphs of subdivided graphs.
Optimal timing for discontinuation of ERCP in cases of difficult selective biliary cannulation
Authors: Jeong Han Taek , Han Jimin
Published: February 2025

Background and study aims: Prolonged cannulation during endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography (ERCP) increases risk of complications, particularly post-ERCP pancreatitis (PEP). This study aimed to determine optimal timing to discontinue ERCP when selective biliary cannulation (SBC) cannot be easily achieved.
Patients and methods: Patients with naïve papilla who underwent ERCP between January 2021 and December 2021 were analyzed. The primary outcome was to determine optimal timing for discontinuing ERCP based on cannulation success rate and complication rate.
Results: A total of 272 patients with naïve papilla underwent ERCP. Trainees did not participate in any of the procedures. Median age was 71 years, and 152 patients (55.9%) were male. The most common indication for ERCP was choledocholithiasis (60.7%), followed by malignant obstruction (24.3%) and benign stricture (4.8%). SBC was achieved in 249 patients (91.5%). After excluding patients with pre-procedure amylase elevation or preexisting pancreatitis, 232 patients were analyzed for complications. Eighteen patients (6.7%) experienced complications, with PEP occurring in 15 patients (5.5%). SBC success was achieved in 50% of cases at 3.3 minutes and in 90% at 12.1 minutes. In contrast, the PEP rate reached 10% after 7.9 minutes and 14.5% after 12.1 minutes. Multivariate analysis identified distal biliary stricture and age over 70 as significant predictors of difficult SBC.
Conclusions: In cases of difficult SBC, discontinuing attempts at around 8 minutes may minimize risk of PEP. However, extending attempts up to 12 minutes can be justified to achieve higher success rates. Beyond 12 minutes, likelihood of successful SBC diminishes significantly.
Anterolateral Thigh Flap for Abdominal Wall Reconstruction: A Lifesaving Procedure—A Case Report
Authors: Nagaprasad N. , Harish G. Praveen , Jahan Asmat , Gaddam Kavya , Dharanikota Satwika
Published: February 2025

It is extremely challenging to deal with a complex full-thickness abdominal wall defect following serious trauma. We aim to share our experience in applying an anterolateral thigh flap in abdominal wall defect reconstruction. This is a retrospective case report of a 40-year-old male patient with a large area of full-thickness defect in the abdominal wall complicated with multiple organ damage identified due to acute trauma. Immediate organ repair surgeries were performed. Meanwhile, the patients underwent complete debridement in the zone of the abdominal wall defect, together with negative pressure wound therapy. Then the appropriate timing was chosen to perform a pedicled anterolateral thigh flap with vastus lateralis muscle for reconstructing a large area of full-thickness defect involving the abdomen. The outcome of the patients was also good. Thus, we conclude that the pedicled anterolateral thigh flap and vastus lateralis muscle flap are feasible to repair full-thickness defect in the abdominal wall and serve as lifesaving options.
Evaluating the Effects of Colonization with Multidrug-Resistant Bacteria on the Outcomes of Induction Chemotherapy in Patients with Acute Leukemia: A Prospective Analysis
Authors: Lagudu Perraju Bhaskar Bhuvan , Vijaykumar Varalakshmi , Chekuri Mounica , Gangopadhyay Devleena , Kalaiyarasi Jayachandran Perumal , Ganesan Prasanth , Rajaraman Swaminathan , Radhakrishnan Venkatraman
Published: February 2025

Introduction The presence of multi-drug resistant (MDR) bacteria has been linked to higher rates of morbidity and mortality in patients with acute leukemia.

Objective This prospective study aimed to evaluate the prevalence of MDR bacteria in stool samples of patients undergoing induction chemotherapy for acute leukemia and to explore its association with clinical outcomes.

Materials and Methods The study recruited 200 patients, aged 1-60 years, with newly diagnosed acute lymphoblastic leukemia (ALL) or acute myeloid leukemia (AML) who were scheduled to receive intensive induction chemotherapy. Stool samples were obtained on days 1 and 15 of the induction phase, and standard bacterial culture methods were used to determine culture and sensitivity.

Results Two hundred patients were enrolled from January 2018 to March 2020. On day 1, 35.7% of the stool cultures were positive, with all identified bacteria being MDR. On day 15, 36.7% of the samples were positive for MDR bacteria. MDR E. coli and MDR Enterococcus faecium were the most common organisms isolated in the stool culture. The detection of MDR bacteria in day 15 stool cultures was significantly associated with an increased risk of infections, admissions to the intensive care unit, mortality, and failure to achieve remission.

Conclusion These findings indicate that monitoring stool colonization with MDR bacteria during induction chemotherapy could be crucial for identifying patients at elevated risk of adverse outcomes and optimizing antimicrobial strategies.
An Anatomical Study on Dominant Vascular Pedicle of Tibialis Anterior Muscle and Its Implication on Tibialis Anterior Muscle Flap
Authors: M.S Venkatesh , B.M Shwetha , K.N Manjunath , Shivaprasad Ashwini , Vidyashankar Veena , K. Anupama
Published: February 2025

Background The tibialis anterior muscle flap (TAMF) is a reliable option to provide coverage for the middle third of the leg. Identification of multiple segmental vessels for the TAMF often proves to be a tedious procedure. A single dominant vascular pedicle, if identified, can be consistently used for harvesting the TAMF. There are no anatomical studies in the literature that propose to identify the main vascular pedicle of the tibialis anterior muscle, which can be consistently used for transfer.

Materials and Methods Forty lower limbs of 20 cadavers were used for the study. Microdissection of the limbs was done to identify the tibialis anterior muscle and the vessel along their entire length. The number of vascular pedicles and the location of each pedicle from the knee joint line and tibial tuberosity were noted.

Results There were a mean of 7.45 (minimum: 5; maximum: 9) segmental perforators from the anterior tibial artery. The average diameter of the dominant perforator was 1.10 ± 0.12 mm. The mean distance of the dominant pedicle from the knee joint line and the tibial tuberosity was 12.15 ± 0.98 and 7.7 ± 1.8 cm, respectively.

Conclusion The dominant vascular pedicle of the tibialis anterior muscle is consistently found at an average distance of 12 cm from the knee joint line and 7.5 cm from the tibial tuberosity. The dominant pedicle could perfuse about 70% of the muscle bulk. A partial TAMF can be devised based on this dominant pedicle for middle one-third leg defects.
Tackling grand challenges: reimagining a moral ecology of globalisation
Authors: Buckley Peter , Enderwick Peter
Published: February 2025

This paper argues the case for a morally superior globalisation designed to overcome some of the most striking limitations of recent global waves but retaining the economic power to address global challenges. There are three steps in reimagining a more acceptable globalisation: its primary focus; a corporate morality to ensure adherence to ethical practices; and the elimination of its negative externalities. For the first we suggest the adoption of the goal of elevating sustainable development to be the primary driver of globalisation. The second step involves acceptance of sacrifice by all agents: consumers, producers, governments, and investors, to widen humanity’s moral circle and value future generations as much as the present generation. The final stage involves a commitment by governments and multinational agencies to correct some of the obvious imperfections of globalisation while also ensuring its continuing operation. Our discussion represents a useful thought experiment and requires a significant change in thinking within those institutions charged with setting the “rules of the game” if we are to devise a fairer global system.
Low-frequency noise and DC I–V characterization of gamma-ray irradiation-induced degradation and trap behaviors in a-IGZO TFTs
Authors: Lee Hongseung , Yoo Jaewook , Song Hyeonjun , Lee Binhyeong , Yoon Soon Joo , Lim Seongbin , Jeong Jo Hak , Kim Soyeon , Park Minah , Park Seohyeon , Jung Sojin , Pandit Bhishma , Moon Taehwan , Hwang Jin-Ha , Lee Kiyoung , Lee Yoon Kyeung , Heo Keun , Bae Hagyoul
Published: February 2025

This work reports the impact of gamma-ray (γ-ray) irradiation-induced degradation based on the trap behaviors in amorphous indium-gallium-zinc-oxide (a-IGZO) thin-film transistors. By employing multiple measurement configurations via low-frequency noise and direct current I–V characterization, we quantitatively investigated the energetic distribution of subgap density-of-states in the a-IGZO channel and the spatial distribution of oxide traps (Not) in the gate insulator, respectively. Also, the qualitative analysis was performed to determine the oxygen-related defects after γ-ray irradiation using x-ray photoelectron spectroscopy. Furthermore, the validity of our results was additionally confirmed by measuring the breakdown voltage and applying positive-bias stress to the fabricated devices exposed to radiation for accelerated tests.
Multipartite entanglement in the diagonal symmetric subspace
Authors: Romero-Pallejà Jordi , Ahiable Jennifer , Romancino Alessandro , Marconi Carlo , Sanpera Anna
Published: February 2025

We investigate the entanglement properties in the symmetric subspace of N-partite d-dimensional systems (qudits). As it happens already for bipartite diagonal symmetric states, also in the multipartite case the local dimension d plays a crucial role. Here, we demonstrate that there is no bound entanglement for d = 3, 4 and N = 3. Using different techniques, we present strong analytical evidence that no bound entanglement exist for any N if d ≤ 4. Interestingly, bound entanglement of diagonal symmetric states exist for any number of parties, N ≥ 2, and local dimensions d ≥ 5.
Generation of multi-cycle relativistic terahertz radiation from photon deceleration in a long self-induced plasma wake
Authors: Lu Huangang , Liu Jiaxin , Cai Jie , Wu Xuezhi , Zhang Jianyao , Ma Qianyi , Wang Zhenan , Xia Yuhui , Ma Wenjun , Lin Chen , Nie Zan , Yu Jinqing , Xu Xinlu , Yan Xueqing
Published: February 2025

Intense terahertz (THz) radiation with multiple cycles is of great interest in many active research fields ranging from particle acceleration to space communication. However, its generation remains a challenge since multi-cycle pulses produced from crystal-based or plasma-based methods are usually characterized by non-relativistic intensity, while plasma-based techniques can deliver much more intense pulses but with few cycles. In this study, we propose a scheme to generate THz radiation with relativistic intensity and multi-cycle duration by shooting a ∼100 TW laser pulse into an underdense plasma with a structured density profile. In this process, laser photons are decelerated by the co-moving refractive index gradient formed by the laser–plasma interaction and slide back to be stored in the self-induced long plasma wake. Particle-in-cell simulations demonstrate the generation of THz radiation with a frequency of 21.4 THz, a pulse length of ∼100 μm (∼7 cycles), a pulse energy up to 18.5 mJ, and an energy conversion efficiency of ∼2%. These pulses may enable access to unexplored regimes of strong THz-material interaction, or open up possibilities for relativistic THz optics.
Neutron standing wave at total reflection and neutron bandpass filter using periodic superlattices
Authors: Singh Surendra , Bhatt Harsh , Gupta Ashish , Gupta Mukul
Published: February 2025

The quantum mechanical phenomena of frustrated total reflection of neutrons in periodic ternary (Ti/Ni/Si) superlattices have been investigated using the polarized neutron reflectivity (PNR) technique. We have experimentally demonstrated that periodic ternary superlattices can efficiently produce a resonant enhanced coherent neutron source with a smaller cross-sectional size, which can probe large-scale inhomogeneities in condensed matter. Using PNR experiments and simulations, we have also studied the applications of periodic ternary superlattices for a possible neutron bandpass filter in the wavelength ranges of 1–10 Å. A comparison of neutron bandpass filter applications for the periodic ternary systems with periodic binary systems is also carried out. The PNR results revealed that the periodic ternary superlattices, which show quantum resonant behaviors, provide a smaller bandwidth for the neutron bandpass filter applications. Our measurements suggest that such periodic superlattices may, therefore, be used for making neutron beams suitable for applications in biochemical and nanoscience research, as well as for studying the fundamental quantum behaviors of neutron beams.
Molecular beam epitaxy growth and optoelectronic properties of droplet-free lattice-matched GaInAsSbBi on GaSb with wavelength extension exceeding 5 μm
Authors: Webster Preston T. , Carrasco Rigo A. , Newell Alexander T. , Muhowski Aaron J. , Patel Victor J. , Hawkins Samuel D. , Milosavljevic Marko S. , Johnson Shane R. , Logan Julie V. , Morath Christian P. , Maestas Diana
Published: February 2025

GaInAsSbBi alloys are grown lattice-matched on GaSb by molecular beam epitaxy demonstrating smooth surface morphologies, >5 μm wavelength photoluminescence emission, and minority carrier lifetimes >1 μs. At a growth temperature of 400 °C, the Ga flux is systematically increased and the Bi flux systematically decreased to identify GaInAsSbBi growth conditions that yield smooth droplet-free surface morphologies. The minority carrier lifetime is evaluated using time-resolved photoluminescence, where it is observed that GaInAsSbBi samples exhibit minority carrier lifetimes comparable to their Bi-free GaInAsSb counterparts, on the order of 1.5–2 μs. The bandgap and Urbach energy are evaluated from steady-state photoluminescence to gain insight into the impact of the incorporated Bi. Coupled with Rutherford backscattering spectrometry measurements of the Bi mole fraction, bandgap reduction rates of 97 meV/% Bi in InAsSbBi and 150 meV/% Bi in GaInAsSbBi are observed, significantly higher than previous evaluations in InAsSbBi (35–55 meV/% Bi). Detailed comparisons of the Bi mole fraction, bandgap energy, and Urbach energy indicate that the bandgap reduction potential in this alloy system is inhibited by the formation of Bi clusters; however, the inclusion of Ga in the quinary alloy is effective in suppressing Bi's tendency to incorporate in clusters for Ga mole fractions >9%, maximizing the bandgap reduction per unit Bi and overall optoelectronic quality.