bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Research on life distribution model of electrical protection cover for energy meter in charging pile based on accelerated test technology
Authors: Zhang Weixin , Wang Chong , Li Zhenxiang , Liang Bin
Published: September 2023

The electric protection cover for the energy meter in the charging pile is an important part to protect the power line terminal and signal line terminal from being damaged by pollution. However, due to the complex and diverse environment in which the charging pile is located, it is easy to cause damage such as damage to electrical protection cover in high temperatures, high humidity, and other harsh environments, resulting in pollution and corrosion of electrical terminals, affecting normal electricity metering. To solve this problem, this paper studies the important factors that affect the life distribution of the electric protective cover used for energy meters in charging piles in the process of use. The accelerated stress model and method are constructed by the comprehensive application of the accelerated test theory, and the accelerated life test is completed. Through experiments, the failure time distribution of typical electrical protection covers for energy meters in a natural service environment is found, the model is hypothesized, tested, and estimated, and the key parameters of life distribution are determined. This paper also provides a good technical idea for the research of aging failure data analysis of electric plastic materials.
Design and Implementation of the Rapid Debugging and Automatic Acceptance System for the Substation Integrated Automation System
Authors: Tian Qian , Wu Chengnan , Li Man , Lian Hongbo , Chen Si , Li Shurun , Gao Chaofeng
Published: September 2023

This article designs a rapid debugging and automatic acceptance system for the comprehensive automation system of substations, mainly used for the automatic acceptance of information in intelligent substation monitoring systems. It achieves functions such as static verification of remote configuration, synchronous acceptance of remote information and on-site monitoring information, dynamic closed-loop verification of remote information, automatic triggering of remote information, and archiving of acceptance reports; By using computer software technology, communication technology, and other technological means to improve the automation level of the comprehensive automation system acceptance of substations, reduce the participation of various departments in the acceptance process, and reduce the workload of manual operation of primary and secondary equipment addition.
Analysis of Transformer Gas Relay Action under Short Circuit Impact
Authors: Yang Zhi , Shen Yunchao , Wang Shaohe , Zheng Yiming , Jin Linfeng , Zou Jianfeng , Zhang Daning
Published: September 2023

A gas relay is an important non-electric protection device for transformers. Under the action of vibration caused by sudden short circuit impact, misoperation of gas relay leads to transformer tripping accidents frequently. In order to explore the relationship between the vibration intensity of the gas relay and the anti-vibration performance of the gas relay during a sudden short circuit, the sudden short circuit capacity test of the transformer and the vibration test of the gas relay were carried out. The analysis of test data shows that the sudden short circuit process of the transformer will cause the misoperation of some gas relays, which provides data support for the inspection test of gas relays. Finally, the optimization scheme of the detection method of the gas relay is proposed, which further effectively reduces the possibility of misoperation and improves the operation reliability of the transformer equipment.
Bidirectional Thermoelectric Assisted Synchronous Charge Extraction Circuit Based on Buck Structure for Piezoelectric Energy Harvesting
Authors: Wu Qibin , Wang Xiudeng , Xia Yinshui
Published: September 2023

Energy harvesting technology is currently a research hotspot, which can effectively solve energy supply problems in fields such as wireless sensor networks, wearable devices, and smart homes. An energy harvesting system using a thermoelectric generator (TEG) for energy assistance of a piezoelectric transducer (PZT) is proposed. It employs a synchronous charge extraction circuit based on a buck structure (BUCK-SECE), which uses thermoelectric energy to inject energy into the piezoelectric element in both directions to boost the initial voltage of the BUCK-SECE, increasing its output power. The experimental results demonstrate that the utilization of thermoelectric energy can increase the output power of BUCK-SECE by a factor of 3.3 under low-vibration conditions and by a factor of 0.8 under high-vibration conditions. Therefore, the proposed energy harvesting system in this article can effectively enhance the output power of piezoelectric energy transducers and yield desirable performance in real-world applications.
Optimization study of overvoltage problem in PV distribution network based on electrical energy router
Authors: Li Ting , Yang Jianfeng , Yang Aimin
Published: September 2023

Photovoltaic power generation has the advantages of being clean and efficient, but it poses a threat to the voltage quality of distribution networks due to unstable power output. In order to solve the overvoltage and power utilization problems of a high-penetration PV distribution network, this paper proposes a tidal current analysis model based on a four-port power router. First, the steady-state modeling of different ports of the electrical energy router is carried out, and the corresponding voltage control strategy is proposed. Then, by establishing a unified tidal current calculation model, a solution for the optimal operation of the distribution network is proposed. Finally, based on the overvoltage data of a regional power grid, the impact on the voltage level of the grid-connected PV system before and after the addition of the power router is compared. From the analyzed data, it is concluded that the introduction of a four-port power router for corresponding port control strategies can effectively improve overvoltage problems in high-permeability PV distribution networks.
A Method for Improving the Data Availability of Distributed Photovoltaic Power Plants
Authors: Sui Jiayin , Wang Yao , Sun Donglei
Published: September 2023

The growth of distributed photovoltaics is very fast, and there have been situations such as short-term low-voltage distributed photovoltaics sending power to high voltage levels, a voltage exceeding limits, and inadequate operation and maintenance. If data analysis is not done well, it will affect the operation of the power grid and the income of the power station. This article analyses the reasons for the limited data quality of existing distributed photovoltaic monitoring platforms. It proposes a method that can improve the data availability of distributed photovoltaic power plants. By reviewing and repairing abnormal data, efficient application of data can be achieved. It can identify 6 types of abnormal data from 25, and 535 and complete the correction of 6 types of abnormal data. After correction, by comparing the data from nearby power stations, it can be seen that the root mean square deviation is 8.25%.
Research and Application of Digital Emergency Decontamination System
Authors: Li Yuqi , Yao Qilin , He Li , Xu Pengcheng , Zhan Qin , Yang Hongguang
Published: September 2023

With the development of nuclear energy, tritium is extensively used in fusion reactors, nuclear power plants, and tritium-related systems. A digital Emergency Detritiation System (EDS) was developed by combining an ionization chamber, a dew point meter, a circulating pump, a drying bed, a liquid nitrogen condenser, etc. to monitor the system and the tritium gas in the industrial exhaust in real time as well as recover and remove the tritium gas in the exhaust. In the work of a factory, the online monitoring of tritium-containing gas in industrial tail gas was realized. A large amount of tritium gas in industrial tail gas was treated by catalytic oxidation of precious metal oxidation bed to form HTO, and finally, HTO was recovered by a liquid nitrogen cold trap. The complex process flow is visualized and automated by the system integration software to improve the efficiency of scientific research. The results demonstrate that the system can monitor the amount of tritium in tail gas instantaneously and accurately. The removal efficiency of tritium from the industrial exhaust can be up to 99%. After repeated regeneration and activation, the working efficiency of the molecular sieve can still reach 99%, ensuring that the composite emission standards of tritiation-related sites or fusion reactors and other plants are met.
Consider Carbon Emission Flow Analysis of Power System with Regards to Power Loss and Wind Power Uncertainty
Authors: Ou Zhongxi , Yang Kun , Lou Yuanyuan , Peng Sui , Li Peicong , Zhou Qunchen
Published: September 2023

A method for analyzing the impact of wind power uncertainty and active power loss on carbon emission flow in power systems is proposed. Based on the stochastic power flow calculation of wind power injection, the correlation function between wind power output and the total carbon injection rate into the system is determined. Meanwhile, the reverse power flow method is used to analyze the contribution of each unit to the active power flow in different parts of the system and calculate the corresponding carbon emissions. Under the assumption that wind power fluctuations are borne by balancing units, this method combines a conventional unit and a system node, branch, load, and active network loss correlation matrix calculation model to solve the average impact factor of wind power injection on other nodes and branches, thereby determining the uncertain characteristics of carbon emission flow in power systems under stochastic and intermittent wind power injection. The correctness and effectiveness of the method are proved by analyzing the IEEE 14-node standard example, providing new theoretical support and ideas for quantitatively evaluating the low-carbon contribution of wind power generation to the system.
Research on Power System Reserve Capacity Allocation Method with High Wind Power Penetration
Authors: Wang Ziqi , Xin Zhilei , Tang Xiaojun , Zhang Xin , Xie Yan
Published: September 2023

ln order to further improve the regulation reserve capability of China’s power grid, this paper analyzes the necessity of constructing reserve capacity configuration of power systems from the aspects of load fluctuation and wind power development. By comparing the effects of different wind power penetration rates on system reserve capacity allocation, the paper investigates the reserve capacity allocation methods of power systems based on the SPN index and WCP index with high wind power penetration respectively, and verifies the effectiveness and universality of the new reserve allocation methods applying the actual grid operation mode.
Comparison of the SOC Estimation Method for Lithium Battery Based on Simulink
Authors: Zhang Hongyi
Published: September 2023

SOC (State Of Charge, SOC) represents the state of charge of a battery and is one of the important indicators to measure the energy usage of the battery. In the field of automotive energy, accurate battery SOC estimation is of great significance for improving the range, service life, and safety of electric vehicles. It is an important part of battery management and energy management. The current SOC estimation methods are diverse, and the ampere-hour integration method has the advantages of high accuracy and simple implementation. The EKF (Extended Kalman Filter) algorithm provides solutions for nonlinear problems such as SOC estimation of batteries. Therefore, these two methods are the preferred choice for some vehicle manufacturers and BMS enterprises. This study selects a first-order RC equivalent circuit model for parameter identification, builds a circuit model on Simulink, and compares and verifies the error of the AH integration method and EKF algorithm.
Development of gas chromatography for dissolved gas in oil based on nitrogen plasma discharge detection principle
Authors: Liu Zien , Zhao Yue , Cao Jun , Wang Xiangke , Li Jianhao , Qian Ahui
Published: September 2023

The gas chromatography detection technology of dissolved gas in oil based on the nitrogen plasma discharge detection principle was studied. This technology detected the characteristic emission light emitted by the excited molecule after the ionization of the detected molecule motivated by the plasma generated by the nitrogen molecule under the action of a high-energy electromagnetic field and realized the quantitative detection of different molecules. Compared with the previous national standard commonly used hydrogen flame ionization detector (FID) and thermal conductivity detector (TCD) gas chromatography, it has a lower detection limit. The advanced chromatographic system with the original process realizes the detection of dissolved gas in transformer oil, which has good linearity and repeatability and can ensure the accuracy of measurement data. The analysis only used nitrogen and did not use hydrogen to prevent explosion hazards. Nitrogen is at least ten times cheaper than helium and is more economical than helium ion chromatography in consumables. The device can detect the small content of the characteristic gas in the transformer oil and the slight change of the content to prevent the occurrence of dangerous accidents.
Power control strategy of wave energy converter with a hybrid double-machine hydraulic energy storage and generating system
Authors: Guo Xinran , Liu Shi , Cheng Yuanchu , Yang Yi , Liang Chonggan
Published: September 2023

Wave energy converters (WEC) with the increasing capacity, which has reached a level of hundreds of kilowatts, would play a role in the connected microgrid. Due to the inherent fluctuation and randomness of wave energy, the unstable output power of WEC is a threat to the power balance of the microgrid. Machines start and stop periodically and the output power changes continuously and significantly. The previous study focused little on the power control of grid-connected WECs. In this paper, a power control strategy is proposed for WECs to achieve stable power output and regulation in various wave conditions. The power control strategy is based on a hybrid double-machine hydraulic energy storage and generating system composed of a controlled unit and an uncontrolled unit. The control strategy enables the stability control and the controllable regulation of power of WEC in various wave conditions. Simulation results of several wave conditions have validated the effect of the power control strategy. The power control strategy would contribute to the extensive deployment of WECs.
Improving and warning the static stability limit of complex power grid tie-line based on WAMS
Authors: Fu Hongjun , Zhu Shaoxuan , Sun Ran , Li Yan , Xie Yan , Xiong Haoqing , Li Xiaomeng
Published: September 2023

In order to solve the technical problems of traditional power system classic formulas that are difficult to explain the static stability limit changes of power grid interconnection lines, as well as the difficulties in improving and warning the static stability limit power of interconnection lines, this paper provides a method for improving and warning the static stability limit of power grid interconnection lines. Firstly, based on the electrical quantities measured by the wide-area measurement system (WAMS) of the power grid, the equivalent reactance of the power grid interconnection lines, and the equivalent impedance from the high voltage side and medium voltage side of the three coil transformers on both sides of the interconnection line are determined. Secondly, under pre-set operation mode and constraint conditions, the configuration quantity and capacity of the dynamic reactive power sources on the medium voltage side of the three coil transformers on both sides of the interconnection line are determined. Finally, based on the determined configuration and pre-set operation mode of the dynamic reactive power sources on the medium voltage side of the three coil transformers on both sides of the interconnection line, the historical electrical quantities measured by WAMS. The static stability limit and static stability margin of the interconnection line are calculated, and warnings are provided.
The 3D model construction method of overhead transmission line based on GIM
Authors: Zhang Hui , Yu Jiangshun , Yu Rong , Liu Wei , Wang Di
Published: September 2023

With the continuous progress of power grid digitization, Building Information Model (building information modeling, BIM) technology can no longer meet the application display requirements of power grid engineering. Power grid information model (grid information model, GIM) technology uses parameterization to build a 3D model, which reduces redundancy and is conducive to the digital transfer of the project. This paper briefly analyzes the structure of the GIM data model. It carries out research on 3D parametric modeling of overhead transmission line ground wire, tower, foundation, and insulator string based on GIM. It uses a 3D graphics engine to realize the visual rendering of ontology 3D models. On this basis, a 3D scene construction method of overhead transmission line engineering based on GIM is proposed, which provides reliable technical support for digital power grid applications.
Double-layer Planning of Distribution Network considering Flexible Supply and Demand
Authors: Zhou Yang , Sun Yonghui , Shi Yu
Published: September 2023

To improve the flexibility of the system, flexible resources are added to the planning of renewable energy systems for collaborative optimization. Firstly, three quantitative indicators of flexible resources are introduced to build a distributed double-layer distribution network planning model that considers flexible resources and a more detailed cost model is considered based on existing research. Secondly, the scheduling and optimization of controllable loads are coordinated to achieve a fully integrated configuration of the distribution network. Then, the APSO algorithm is used to solve the problem. Finally, test results verify that the proposed planning approach is effective in improving system flexibility, economy, and reliability.
Investigation about Power Flow Algorithm for Distribution Network with Distributed Photovoltaic
Authors: Chen Haofei , Han Jun , Jiang Xingwei , Zhou Yuming , Ding Dawei , Fan Anjie , Cai Chao
Published: September 2023

To obtain the practical power flow algorithm for distribution network with distributed photovoltaic (PV), the change in phase and amplitude of calculated node voltage with number of iterations, and computation time of the Newton-Raphson algorithm, back/forward sweep algorithm and implicit
Z

bus Gaussian algorithm are obtained for 5-node circular distribution network with distributed photovoltaic. The results show that the Newton-Raphson algorithm can not converge and can not be used in the circular distribution network with PV. Both back/forward sweep algorithm and implicit
Z

bus Gaussian algorithm can converge and their results are consistent, but the computation time of the latter is almost 1/3 of the former. The latter is recommended for power flow calculation for annular distribution network with distributed PV.
Monitoring Method for Off-grid Capacity of Direct Drive Wind Farm
Authors: Chen Wei , Li Xindong , Zha Daojun , Hou Xiaofan , Wu Dan
Published: September 2023

A direct drive wind farm (DDWF) is composed of multitudinous permanent magnet synchronous generators (PMSG), with a small single-unit capacity. When the power grid mal-functions, some units in the DDWF may enter a fault traversal state, and some units may be disconnected from the grid. At this time, the DDWF exhibits a decrease in active output. Due to the large number of units in DDWFs, it is difficult to directly monitor each off-grid unit, resulting in the inability of the power grid to timely and accurately determine the load shedding amount. This article proposes a monitoring method for the disconnection capacity of DDWFs, which can calculate the disconnection capacity of DDWFs after a fault occurs by only monitoring the electric quantity at the connection point of the DDWF. And a DDWF grid connection model is built using PSCAD simulation software. The reliability of the monitoring is authenticated through simulation using a single-phase grounding short circuit fault as an example.
Comparison of video-based algorithms for 2D human kinematics estimation: a preliminary study
Authors: Ceriola Luca , Mileti Ilaria , Donati Marco , Patanè Fabrizio
Published: September 2023

Many research efforts have been spent developing robust video-based algorithms for human pose estimation. Our goal was to compare video-based algorithms for pose estimation for gait analysis. We conducted an experiment with a healthy subject performing walking sessions on a treadmill at three different speeds: slow (3.6 km/h), medium (5 km/h), and high (7 km/h). An RGB 4k camera was placed laterally on the sagittal plane. Four algorithms were compared: (i) colour threshold filtering with blob-analysis, and three Deep Learning-based markerless algorithms (ii) TC-Former, (iii) FastPose and (iv) Blazepose. For colour threshold filtering with the blob-analysis algorithm, six magenta passive markers were placed over the joint centres of the subject’s lower limb. All selected deep learning-based markerless algorithms are supported by various open-source pose estimation toolboxes and are pre-trained on several whole-body keypoint datasets. The 2D trajectories of the joint centres were compared considering the root mean square error and Pearson’s coefficient. Preliminary results showed high correlations between marker and markerless algorithms for all walking speeds. TC-Former generally performed better with root mean square error on trajectories below 35 mm and did not suffer from self-occlusion issues.
Flow field investigation of Confined Coaxial Swirling Jets by Stereo-PIV
Authors: Cozzi F. , Francabandiera A. , Zampini L.
Published: September 2023

This work analyses the isothermal flow field of a research burner exploiting both swirl and radially staged combustion air. The burner is composed of two coaxial co-rotating swirling jets, and the swirl level of the two jets can be controlled independently of each other. The influence of the swirl levels on the flow field is experimentally investigated under isothermal conditions using the Stereo-PIV technique, and the results evidence significant differences in the mean flow field at the different swirl levels. The vortex breakdown occurs in all the investigated cases, except for the combination of the lowest outer swirl level and the intermediate inner swirl level. Besides, the central recirculating flow region shape and size are affected by the momentum ratio and swirl level of the central jet. When the swirl intensities of the two coaxial jets are at their maximum, LDV measurements evidence on the burner axis tangential velocity fluctuations at a frequency of about 86 Hz; a POD-based phase average of the PIV maps allows recognizing the presence of a Precessing Vortex Core (PVC) which induces a periodic merging of the two jets. Those results can be of significance in the design of double swirl burners and for the control of the combustion process. Nevertheless, further tests are required to extend the current analysis to combustion conditions.
Non-contact measurement techniques to study the microsized particle adhesion phenomenon
Authors: Suman A , Pinelli M
Published: September 2023

Airborne microsized particles are generated by artificial activity and natural sources. Due to their characteristics, these airborne particles are highly volatile and can cover thousands of kilometers according to weather conditions (in particular, wind intensity and humidity). As a result, these microsized particles could contaminate engineering systems determining their operation and performance modification. Phenomena such as photovoltaic panel soiling or gas turbine fouling are two of the most detrimental effects generated by the interaction between airborne particles and the relevant surfaces of the system. The present work proposes a set of non-contact measurement methodologies to study the adhesion phenomenon. The non-contact techniques are devoted to studying the deposited layer without altering the deposits. Image and video analysis have been used to show how the deposit can be studied in detail. Stationary and rotating facilities have been employed to show the applicability and the related constraints to the non-contact measurement techniques.
Uncertainty of feed forward neural networks recognizing quantum contextuality
Authors: Wasilewski Jan , Paterek Tomasz , Horodecki Karol
Published: September 2023

The usual figure of merit characterizing the performance of neural networks applied to problems in the quantum domain is their accuracy, being the probability of a correct answer on a previously unseen input. Here we append this parameter with the uncertainty of the prediction, characterizing the degree of confidence in the answer. A powerful technique for estimating uncertainty is provided by Bayesian neural networks (BNNs). We first give simple illustrative examples of advantages brought forward by BNNs, out of which we wish to highlight their ability of reliable uncertainty estimation even after training with biased datasets. Then we apply BNNs to the problem of recognition of quantum contextuality, which shows that the uncertainty itself is an independent parameter identifying the chance of misclassification of contextuality.
Scaling limit of stretched Brownian chains
Authors: Aurzada Frank , Betz Volker , Lifshits Mikhail
Published: September 2023

We show that a properly scaled stretched long Brownian chain converges to a two-parametric stochastic process, given by the sum of an explicit deterministic continuous function and the solution of the stochastic heat equation with zero boundary conditions.
Bioinspired 3D-printed scaffold embedding DDAB-nano ZnO/nanofibrous microspheres for regenerative diabetic wound healing
Authors: Metwally Walaa M , El-Habashy Salma E , El-Hosseiny Lobna S , Essawy Marwa M , Eltaher Hoda M , El-Khordagui Labiba K
Published: September 2023

There is a constant demand for novel materials/biomedical devices to accelerate the healing of hard-to-heal wounds. Herein, an innovative 3D-printed bioinspired construct was developed as an antibacterial/regenerative scaffold for diabetic wound healing. Hyaluronic/chitosan (HA/CS) ink was used to fabricate a bilayer scaffold comprising a dense plain hydrogel layer topping an antibacterial/regenerative nanofibrous layer obtained by incorporating the hydrogel with polylactic acid nanofibrous microspheres (MS). These were embedded with nano ZnO (ZNP) or didecyldimethylammonium bromide (DDAB)-treated ZNP (D-ZNP) to generate the antibacterial/healing nano/micro hybrid biomaterials, Z-MS@scaffold and DZ-MS@scaffold. Plain and composite scaffolds incorporating blank MS (blank MS@scaffold) or MS-free ZNP@scaffold and D-ZNP@scaffold were used for comparison. 3D printed bilayer constructs with customizable porosity were obtained as verified by SEM. The DZ-MS@scaffold exhibited the largest total pore area as well as the highest water-uptake capacity and in vitro antibacterial activity. Treatment of Staphylococcus aureus-infected full thickness diabetic wounds in rats indicated superiority of DZ-MS@scaffold as evidenced by multiple assessments. The scaffold afforded 95% wound-closure, infection suppression, effective regulation of healing-associated biomarkers as well as regeneration of skin structure in 14 d. On the other hand, healing of non-diabetic acute wounds was effectively accelerated by the simpler less porous Z-MS@scaffold. Information is provided for the first-time on the 3D printing of nanofibrous scaffolds using non-electrospun injectable bioactive nano/micro particulate constructs, an innovative ZNP-functionalized 3D-printed formulation and the distinct bioactivity of D-ZNP as a powerful antibacterial/wound healing promotor. In addition, findings underscored the crucial role of nanofibrous-MS carrier in enhancing the physicochemical, antibacterial, and wound regenerative properties of DDAB-nano ZnO. In conclusion, innovative 3D-printed DZ-MS@scaffold merging the MS-boosted multiple functionalities of ZNP and DDAB, the structural characteristics of nanofibrous MS in addition to those of the 3D-printed bilayer scaffold, provide a versatile bioactive material platform for diabetic wound healing and other biomedical applications.
Structure, optical, and electrical properties of layered oxychalcogenide Sr2ZnCu2(S1−x
Se
x
)2O2 (0 ≤ x ≤ 1) compounds
Authors: Kato Takahiro , Iwasa Yuki , Naik Sugali Pavan Kumar , Ishida Shigeyuki , Higashi Yoichi , Hase Izumi , Nishio Taichiro , Hongo Kenta , Maezono Ryo , Ogino Hiraku
Published: September 2023

Layered oxychalcogenide Sr2ZnCu2(S1-x
Se
x
)2O2 compounds were synthesized via a solid-state reaction. Density functional theory calculations indicate different valence band maximum, Sr2ZnCu2Se2O2 was composed of Cu 3d–Se 4p, while Sr2ZnCu2S2O2 was dominated by the Zn 3d–O 2p hybrid orbital. Band gap was decreased as the Se-containing is increasing, from 2.5 eV to 2.2 eV. In contrast, electrical conductivity of the Se-substituted samples considerably increased from 10−3 S cm−1 at x = 0 to 10−1 S cm−1 at x = 0.25, and was almost the same at x = 1. Based on this feature, Sr2ZnCu2(S1-x
Se
x
)2O2 can be applied as a transparent conductor material.
Magnetic domain structure and magneto-transport properties of laser ablated Co40Fe40B20 thin films
Authors: Swamy G Venkat , Rout P K , Pandey Himanshu , Riscob B , Basheed G A
Published: September 2023

We report the magnetic domain structure, and electrical and magnetoresistance properties of laser ablated Co40Fe40B20 (CoFeB) (6 to 36 nm) thin films deposited on SiO2 / Si(001) substrates. Magnetic force microscopy performed on annealed CoFeB thin films revealed larger magnetic domains, which are formed due to strong exchange coupling between the grains. The temperature-dependent sheet resistance of as-deposited thin films revealed that the observed non-metallic behavior is due to intragrain-tunneling and SiO2 inclusions in the amorphous matrix. The metallic behavior of annealed CoFeB thin films is due to electron scattering from grain boundaries and granularity correlated to the formation of nano-crystallites. Thickness and field-dependent magneto-transport studies show higher magnetoresistance values for thinner annealed CoFeB films due to more scattering events upon crystallization, which is consistent with the granular nature of the annealed thin films.
Balancing biomass reaction stoichiometry and measured fluxes in flux balance analysis
Authors: von Kamp Axel , Klamt Steffen
Published: September 2023

Motivation

Flux balance analysis (FBA) is widely recognized as an important method for studying metabolic networks. When incorporating flux measurements of certain reactions into an FBA problem, it is possible that the underlying linear program may become infeasible, e.g. due to measurement or modeling inaccuracies. Furthermore, while the biomass reaction is of central importance in FBA models, its stoichiometry is often a rough estimate and a source of high uncertainty.

Results

In this work, we present a method that allows modifications to the biomass reaction stoichiometry as a means to (i) render the FBA problem feasible and (ii) improve the accuracy of the model by corrections in the biomass composition. Optionally, the adjustment of the biomass composition can be used in conjunction with a previously introduced approach for balancing inconsistent fluxes to obtain a feasible FBA system. We demonstrate the value of our approach by analyzing realistic flux measurements of E.coli. In particular, we find that the growth-associated maintenance (GAM) demand of ATP, which is typically integrated with the biomass reaction, is likely overestimated in recent genome-scale models, at least for certain growth conditions. In light of these findings, we discuss issues related to the determination and inclusion of GAM values in constraint-based models. Overall, our method can uncover potential errors and suggest adjustments in the assumed biomass composition in FBA models based on inconsistencies between the model and measured fluxes.

Availability and implementation

The developed method has been implemented in our software tool CNApy available from https://github.com/cnapy-org/CNApy.
Plasminogen Activator Inhibitor 1 Is a Novel Faecal Biomarker for Monitoring Disease Activity and Therapeutic Response in Inflammatory Bowel Diseases
Authors: Jójárt Boldizsár , Resál Tamás , Kata Diána , Molnár Tünde , Bacsur Péter , Szabó Viktória , Varga Árpád , Szántó Kata Judit , Pallagi Petra , Földesi Imre , Molnár Tamás , Maléth József , Farkas Klaudia
Published: September 2023

Background and Aims

Crohn’s disease [CD] and ulcerative colitis [UC] require lifelong treatment and patient monitoring. Current biomarkers have several limitations; therefore, there is an unmet need to identify novel biomarkers in inflammatory bowel disease [IBD]. Previously, the role of plasminogen activator inhibitor 1 [PAI-1] was established in the pathogenesis of IBD and suggested as a potential biomarker. Therefore, we aimed to comprehensively analyse the selectivity of PAI-1 in IBD, its correlation with disease activity, and its potential to predict therapeutic response.

Methods

Blood, colon biopsy, organoid cultures [OC], and faecal samples were used from active and inactive IBD patients and control subjects. Serpin E1 gene expressions and PAI-1 protein levels and localisation in serum, biopsy, and faecal samples were evaluated by qRT-PCR, ELISA, and immunostaining, respectively.

Results

The study population comprised 132 IBD patients [56 CD and 76 UC] and 40 non-IBD patients. We demonstrated that the serum, mucosal, and faecal PAI-1 concentrations are elevated in IBD patients, showing clinical and endoscopic activity. In responders [decrease of eMayo ≥3 in UC; or SES-CD  50% in CD], the initial PAI-1 level decreased significantly upon successful therapy. OCs derived from active IBD patients produced higher concentrations of PAI-1 than the controls, suggesting that epithelial cells could be a source of PAI-1. Moreover, faecal PAI-1 selectively increases in active IBD but not in other organic gastrointestinal diseases.

Conclusions

The serum, mucosal, and faecal PAI-1 concentration correlates with disease activity and therapeutic response in IBD, suggesting that PAI-1 could be used as a novel, non-invasive, disease-specific, faecal biomarker in patient follow-up.
Safety and success of transvenous lead extraction using excimer laser sheaths: a meta-analysis of over 1700 patients
Authors: Rinaldi Christopher Aldo , Diemberger Igor , Biffi Mauro , Gao Yu-Rong , Sizto Enoch , Jin Nancy , Epstein Laurence M , Defaye Pascal
Published: September 2023

Aims

While numerous studies have demonstrated favourable safety and efficacy of the excimer laser sheath for transvenous lead extraction (TLE) in smaller cohorts, comprehensive large-scale investigations with contemporary data remain scarce. This study aims to evaluate the safety and performance of laser-assisted TLE through a meta-analysis of contemporary data.

Methods and results

A systematic literature search was conducted to identify articles that assessed the safety and performance of the spectranetics laser sheath (SLS) II and GlideLight Excimer laser sheaths in TLE procedures between 1 April 2016 and 31 March 2021. Safety outcomes included procedure-related death and major/minor complications. Performance outcomes included procedural and clinical success rates. A random-effects, inverse-variance-weighting meta-analysis was performed to obtain the weighted average of the evaluated outcomes. In total, 17 articles were identified and evaluated, including 1729 patients with 2887 leads. Each patient, on average, had 2.3 ± 0.3 leads with a dwell time of 7.9 ± 3.0 years. The TLE procedural successes rate was 96.8% [1440/1505; 95% CI: (94.9–98.2%)] per patient and 96.3% [1447/1501; 95% CI: (94.8–97.4%)] per lead, and the clinical success rate per patient was 98.3% [989/1010, 95% CI: (97.4–99.0%)]. The procedure-related death rate was 0.08% [7/1729, 95% CI: (0.00%, 0.34%)], with major and minor complication rates of 1.9% [41/1729; 95% CI: (1.2–2.8%)] and 1.9% [58/1729; 95% CI: (0.8–3.6%)], respectively.

Conclusion

This meta-analysis demonstrated that excimer laser sheath-assisted TLE has high success and low procedural mortality rates. It provides clinicians with a reliable and valuable resource for extracting indwelling cardiac leads which require advanced extraction techniques.
‘Virtually daily grief’—understanding distress in health practitioners involved in a regulatory complaints process: a qualitative study in Australia
Authors: Biggar Susan , van der Gaag Anna , Maher Pat , Evans Jacinta , Bondu Lakshmi , Kar Ray Manaan , Phillips Rachel , Tonkin Anne , Schofield Catherine , Ayscough Kym , Hardy Matthew , Anderson Sarah , Saar Eva , Fletcher Martin
Published: September 2023

Protection of the public is the paramount aim for health practitioner regulation, yet there has been growing concern globally on the association between regulatory complaints processes and practitioner mental health and wellbeing. The objective was to understand the experience, particularly distress, of health practitioners involved in a regulatory complaints process to identify potential strategies to minimise future risk of distress. Semi-structured qualitative interviews were conducted with health practitioners in Australia who had recently been through a regulatory complaints process, together with a retrospective analysis of documentation relating to all identified cases of self-harm or suicide of health practitioners who were involved in such a process over 4 years. Data from interviews and the serious incident analysis found there were elements of the regulatory complaints process contributing to practitioner distress. These included poor communication, extended time to close the investigation, and the management of health-related concerns. The study found external personal circumstances and pre-existing conditions could put the practitioner at greater risk of distress. There were found to be key moments in the process—triggers—where the practitioner was at particular risk of severe distress. Strong support networks, both personal and professional, were found to be protective against distress. Through process improvements and, where appropriate, additional support for practitioners, we hope to further minimise the risk of practitioner distress and harm when involved in a regulatory complaints process. The findings also point to the need for improved partnerships between regulators and key stakeholders, such as legal defence organisations, indemnity providers, employers, and those with lived experience of complaints processes. Together they can improve the support for practitioners facing a complaint and address the stigma, shame, and fear associated with regulatory complaints processes. This project provides further evidence that a more compassionate approach to regulation has the potential to be better for all parties and, ultimately, the wider healthcare system.
Beyond Collateral Damage: The Politics of Civilian Victimization in a Civil War
Authors: Besaw Clayton , Ritter Kellan , Tezcür Güneş Murat
Published: September 2023

Under what conditions do states pursue counterinsurgency measures with little disregard for civilian life? This article argues that the states have an incentive to engage in group-selective violence involving disproportionate force when facing a local population sympathetic to an armed insurgent organization. Such a military strategy allows the state to punish the local population while claiming that civilian casualties are an unintended consequence of its counterinsurgency campaign. Using a nuanced measurement of civilian victimization that transcendences the dichotomous distinction between intentional and unintentional killings, this study focuses on the Kurdish conflict in Turkey. The empirical analyses, based on an original violent events dataset, demonstrate that the Turkish state’s counterinsurgency campaign involves group-selective violence characterized by disproportionate force that aims to neutralize domestic and international reactions, punishes dissident political mobilization, and brandishes the government’s nationalist credentials to the majority population.
Pantoprazole promotes sustained intestinal carriage of multidrug-resistant Escherichia coli in amoxicillin-treated mice
Authors: Moaligou Camille , Dion Michel , Ishnaiwer Murad , Dailly Éric , Batard Éric , Javaudin François
Published: September 2023

Aims

The main objective of this study was to compare extended-spectrum β-lactamase (ESBL) Escherichia coli fecal titers during 12 days between two groups: mice who received proton pump inhibitors (PPIs) and those that did not.

Methods and results

We tested three different in vivo models: model 1, high inoculum (106 CFU ml−1); model 2, low inoculum (102 CFU ml−1); and model 3, low inoculum and 2-day amoxicillin wash-out. There was no significant difference between the two groups in fecal ESBL E. coli titers in models 1 and 2. The fecal titers of ESBL E. coli were probably too high to show differences in colonization related to PPI treatment. By introducing a 2-day wash-out period after stopping amoxicillin (model 3), the fecal ESBL E. coli titers were higher in the PPI-treated mice during 12 days (3 log versus 11 log day CFU g−1; P < 0.05). This result highlighted that PPIs promote stable ESBL E. coli digestive carriage in mice. Fecal quantitative PCR showed that mice with low ESBL E. coli fecal titers had a much higher concentration of equol-producing bacteria, Muribaculum sp., and Adlercreutzia caecimuris.

Conclusions

Pantoprazole treatment promotes sustained digestive carriage of ESBL E. coli in amoxicillin-treated mice.
Survey of gravitationally lensed objects in HSC imaging (SuGOHI) – IX. Discovery of strongly lensed quasar candidates
Authors: Chan James H H , Wong Kenneth C , Ding Xuheng , Chao Dani , Chiu I-Non , Jaelani Anton T , Kayo Issha , More Anupreeta , Oguri Masamune , Suyu Sherry H
Published: September 2023

We report the discovery of new lensed quasar candidates in the imaging data of the Hyper Suprime-Cam Subaru Strategic Program (HSC-SSP) Data Release 4, covering $1\, 310\deg ^2$ of the sky with median seeing in the i band of ≈0.6 arcsec. In addition to two catalogues of Million Quasars Catalog v7.2 and AllWISE Catalog of Mid-Infra Red Active Galactic Nuclei, containing confirmed and candidate quasars, we preselect quasar sources using colour cuts from the HSC (grizy) and unWISE (W1 + W2) photometric data based on SDSS spectroscopic catalogues. We search for the presence of multiple point sources with similar colour through the convolution of the Laplacian of the preselected quasar image cutouts with the Laplacian of the point spread function, resulting in a reduction of lens candidates from 1 652 329 to 121 511 (7.4 per cent). After visual binary classification, we grade 6 199 (0.4 per cent) potential lenses on a scale of 0 to 3, with 3 indicating a lens and 0 indicating a non-lens. Finally we obtain 162 lens candidates with an average grade of ≥2, and among them, we successfully recover 18 known lenses. By fitting the light distribution and removing the known contaminants, we discover that 57 new systems contain at least two point sources and a galaxy in between, including 10 possible quadruply lensed quasars. This new sample exhibits a median separation of 1.26 arcsec and a magnitude limit of i ≈ 22. Spectroscopic or high-resolution imaging follow up on these newly discovered lensed quasar candidates will further allow their natures to be confirmed.
Shadows of black holes at cosmological distances in the co-varying physical couplings framework
Authors: Cuzinatto R R , de Melo C A M , Neves Juliano C S
Published: September 2023

The co-varying physical couplings (CPC) framework states that physical parameters like the speed of light in vacuum c, the Newtonian constant G, and the cosmological constant Λ could indeed vary with the space–time coordinates xμ. Here, we assume a temporal variation, that is, c(t), G(t), and Λ(t). We show that the McVittie space–time, a black hole in an expanding universe, is a solution of the CPC framework providing naturally an important parameter of the model. Then, we calculate the shadow angular radius of this black hole at cosmological distances. A black hole shadow in the CPC context could be either larger or smaller than the same shadow in the standard cosmology. It depends on how the set {c, G, Λ} varies with time or with the cosmic expansion.
The eccentric Koza–Lidov mechanism as the cause of exocomet transits of KIC 8462852
Authors: Young Steven D , Wyatt Mark C
Published: September 2023

KIC 8462852 is a star in the Kepler field that exhibits almost unique behaviour. The deep, irregular, and aperiodic dips in its light curve have been interpreted as the breakup of a large exocomet on a highly eccentric orbit whose post-disruption material obscures the star. It is hypothesized that a nearby M-dwarf, recently confirmed to be bound to the system, could be exciting planetesimals in a source belt to high eccentricities if its orbit is highly misaligned with the belt: an effect known as the ‘Eccentric Kozai–Lidov Mechanism’. To quantify how often this effect is expected to occur, this paper presents a Monte Carlo model of wide binary stars with embedded, misaligned planetesimal belts. These belts collisionally erode over time until they are excited to high eccentricities on secular time-scales by a companion star if its orbit is sufficiently misaligned. The large planetesimals then produce an observable dimming signature in the light curve for a set period of time which may or may not overlap with similar events. The model finds that, for dimming events that persist for 100 yr, the most likely companion stars are located at 102−104 au, the most likely belts are at 102−103 au and the system age is most likely to be 102−103 Myr. However, the probability of observing one or more stars exhibiting this phenomenon in the Kepler field is 1.3 × 10−3, such that it is unlikely this mechanism is driving the observations of KIC 8462852.
Nontuberculous mycobacteriosis oligoarthritis of the right hand misdiagnosed as rheumatoid arthritis: A case report
Authors: Joyo Yuji , Yasuma Sanshiro , Usami Takuya , Hattori Yusuke , Noda Yohei , Kato Sakurako , Kondo Ryohei , Watanabe Soichiro , Waguri-Nagaya Yuko
Published: September 2023

Infection with Mycobacterium marinum has several different clinical presentations. Most commonly, it appears as a solitary papulonodular lesion on an extremity. A rare presentation of osteoarticular M. marinum involving multiple small joints and tenosynovitis of the hand, which was misdiagnosed as rheumatoid arthritis, is reported. The patient was initially treated for seronegative rheumatoid arthritis but failed to respond to methotrexate. Magnetic resonance imaging showed arthritis and tenosynovitis. Subsequently, synovial biopsy led to histological and microbiological diagnosis. Antimycobacterial treatment should be started promptly in such cases. The combined use of rifampicin, ethambutol, and clarithromycin appears to be effective, and debridement is indicated in patients with deep-seated infections.