bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Wide process temperature of atomic layer deposition for In2O3 thin-film transistors using novel indium precursor (N,N′-di-tert butylacetimidamido)dimethyllindium
Authors: Lee Ju-Hun , Kang Seung-Youl , Yeon Changbong , Yang Jong-Heon , Jung Jaesun , Tan Kok Chew , Kim Kitae , Yi Yeonjin , Park Soohyung , Hwang Chi-Sun , Moon Jaehyun
Published: June 2024

This study introduces a novel heteroleptic indium complex, which incorporates an amidinate ligand, serving as a high-temperature atomic layer deposition (ALD) precursor. The most stable structure was determined using density functional theory and synthesized, demonstrating thermal stability up to 375 °C. We fabricated indium oxide thin-film transistors (In2O3 TFTs) prepared with DBADMI precursor using ALD in wide range of window processing temperature of 200 °C, 300 °C, and 350 °C with an ozone (O3) as the source. The growth per cycle of ALD ranged from 0.06 to 0.1 nm cycle−1 at different deposition temperatures. X-ray diffraction and transmission electron microscopy were employed to analyze the crystalline structure as it relates to the deposition temperature. At a relatively low deposition temperature of 200 °C, an amorphous morphology was observed, while at 300 °C and 350 °C, crystalline structures were evident. Additionally, x-ray photoelectron spectroscopy analysis was conducted to identify the In–O and OH-related products in the film. The OH-related product was found to be as low as 1% with an increase the deposition temperature. Furthermore, we evaluated In2O3 TFTs and observed an increase in field-effect mobility, with minimal change in the threshold voltage (V
th), at 200 °C, 300 °C, and 350 °C. Consequently, the DBADMI precursor, given its stability at highdeposition temperatures, is ideal for producing high-quality films and stable crystalline phases, with wide processing temperature range makeing it suitable for various applications.
Introducing wave-particle duality with low-cost quantitative experiments on light diffraction
Authors: Salmoiraghi Alessandro , Gratton Luigi M , Di Mauro Marco , Onorato Pasquale
Published: June 2024

We present a quantitative optical low-cost experiment aimed at introducing students to wave-particle duality from a phenomenological point of view. The experiment, focused on light diffraction, clearly shows the intermediate crossover regime which characterize the transition from geometric optics (in which light behaves like a stream of particles) to the Fraunhofer diffraction regime (where the wave aspects are most evident). It can also be considered for introducing students to the uncertainty relations through diffraction of light waves. The experiments do not require expensive materials or specific laboratory instruments and employ the sensors and camera of common mobile devices. The experiments were tested with master students in mathematics and physics, who aim at becoming high school teachers.
Enhancement of the critical current by surface irregularities in Fe-based superconductors
Authors: Llovo I F , Mosqueira J , Hu Ding , Luo Huiqian , Li Shiliang
Published: June 2024

The critical current

I
c

of single crystals of the iron pnictide superconductor BaFe2(As

1
−
x

P
x
)2 has been studied through measurements of magnetic hysteresis cycles. We show that the introduction of micrometer-scale irregularities on the surface significantly increases

I
c

, primarily near the irreversibility magnetic field

H
irr

. The observed increase can be attributed to a non-dissipative surface current that arises from the collective bending of the vortex lattice at the sample surface, enabled by the surface irregularities. This mechanism, which is not pinning in the proper sense, has previously been studied in clean, low-

T
c

, metallic superconductors, but had not been investigated in Fe-based superconductors. The observed increase in

I
c

is consistent with a theoretical estimate based on the Mathieu-Simon continuum theory of the vortex state.
A link between static and dynamical perturbation theory
Authors: Gemsheim Sebastian
Published: June 2024

Dynamics, the physical change in time and a pillar of natural sciences, can be regarded as an emergent phenomenon when the system of interest is part of a larger, static one. This ‘relational approach to time’, in which the system’s environment provides a temporal reference, does not only provide insight into foundational issues of physics, but holds the potential for a deeper theoretical understanding as it intimately links statics and dynamics. Reinforcing the significance of this connection, we demonstrate, based on recent progress (Gemsheim and Rost 2023 Phys. Rev. Lett.
131 140202), the role of emergent time as a vital link between time-independent and time-dependent perturbation theory in quantum mechanics. We calculate first order contributions, which are often the most significant, and discuss the issue of degenerate spectra. Based on our results, we envision future applications for the calculation of dynamical phenomena based on a single pure energy eigenstate.
Jeffrey fluid saturating a heated porous layer: Dynamical and microcontroller execution probing
Authors: Muthukumar Deiva Sundari , Kibanya Noel Nyang , Metsebo Jules , Sekhar D Chandra , Kuiate Gaetan Fautso
Published: June 2024

In this paper, a dynamical investigation and microcontroller execution on a Jeffrey fluid saturating a porous layer with bottom heating and periodic modulation of gravity is carried out. The continuity equation, the energy conservation equation and the Boussinesq-Darcy approximation are used to describe the Jeffrey fluid saturating a porous layer with bottom heating and periodic gravity modulation. Thanks to the truncated Galerkin expansion method, the partial differential equations obtained from the modelling is reduced to four first order ordinary differential equations. This four-dimensional system without gravity modulation has three or one steady states depending on the scaled thermal Rayleigh number and the non-dimensional ratio of relaxation time to the retardation time of the fluid. From the stability analysis of the obtained equilibrium points in the four-dimensional system without gravity modulation, it is revealed that the steady states are stable or unstable depending on the non-dimensional ratio of relaxation time to retardation time of the fluid. Without gravity modulation, the four-dimensional system experiences Hopf bifurcation, steady convection, periodic convections, seven different shapes of chaotic convections, bistable period-1-convection, bistable period-3-convections and coexisting convections. With the sinusoidal periodic gravity modulation, the four-dimensional system displays Hopf bifurcation, steady convections, periodic convections, bursting convections, quasiperiodic convections and three different shapes of chaotic convections. A microcontroller execution of the four-dimensional system is used to establish the convection characteristics spotted in the four-dimensional system without and with sinusoidal periodic gravity modulation during the numerical simulations.
Control of GaN inverted pyramids growth on c-plane patterned sapphire substrates
Authors: Yu Luming , Wang Xun , Hao Zhibiao , Luo Yi , Sun Changzheng , Xiong Bing , Han Yanjun , Wang Jian , Li Hongtao , Gan Lin , Wang Lai
Published: June 2024

Growth of gallium nitride (GaN) inverted pyramids on c-plane sapphire substrates is benefit for fabricating novel devices as it forms the semipolar facets. In this work, GaN inverted pyramids are directly grown on c-plane patterned sapphire substrates (PSS) by metal organic vapor phase epitaxy (MOVPE). The influences of growth conditions on the surface morphology are experimentally studied and explained by Wulff constructions. The competition of growth rate among {0001}, {

}, and {

} facets results in the various surface morphologies of GaN. A higher growth temperature of 985 °C and a lower Ⅴ/Ⅲ ratio of 25 can expand the area of {

} facets in GaN inverted pyramids. On the other hand, GaN inverted pyramids with almost pure {

} facets are obtained by using a lower growth temperature of 930 °C, a higher Ⅴ/Ⅲ ratio of 100, and PSS with pattern arrangement perpendicular to the substrate primary flat.
Power of a test for assessing interlaboratory consensus of nominal and ordinal characteristics of a substance, material, or object
Authors: Gadrich Tamar , Marmor Yariv N , Pennecchi Francesca R , Hibbert D Brynn , Semenova Anastasia A , Kuselman Ilya
Published: June 2024

A concept of the consensus among different laboratories participating in an interlaboratory comparison, classifying a substance, material, or object according to its nominal and ordinal (i.e. categorical) characteristics, is devised using decomposition of the total variation of the laboratory responses. One of the components of the total variation is caused by the between-laboratory differences, and the second—by conditions associated with the applied experimental design (for example, temperature of test items, technician experience, etc). This decomposition is based on the recently developed two-way CATANOVA for nominal variables and two-way ORDANOVA for ordinal variables. The consensus is tested as hypotheses about homogeneity, i.e. insignificance of the corresponding components of the total variation. The consensus power is taken to be the power of the homogeneity test. A methodology for evaluation of the consensus power and corresponding risks of false decisions versus the dataset size of categorical characteristics obtained in an interlaboratory comparison is detailed. Examples of evaluation of the power and risks are discussed using previously-published datasets of an interlaboratory comparison of identification of weld imperfections, and an examination of the intensity of the odor of drinking water. An example of computer code in the R programming environment is presented for the power calculations in the case of nominal variables, using a chi-square distribution. A newly developed tool for ordinal variables, an Excel spreadsheet with macros, which is based on Monte Carlo draws from a multinomial distribution, is also available.
Investigations of atomic and molecular processes of NBI-heated discharges in the MAST Upgrade Super-X divertor with implications for reactors
Authors: Verhaegh Kevin , Harrison James , Lipschultz Bruce , Lonigro Nicola , Kobussen Stijn , Moulton David , Osborne Nick , Ryan Peter , Theiler Christian , Wijkamp Tijs , Brida Dominik , Derks Gijs , Doyle Rhys , Federici Fabio , Hakola Antti , Henderson Stuart , Kool Bob , Newton Sarah , Osawa Ryoko , Pope Xander , Reimerdes Holger , Vianello Nicola , Wischmeier Marco ,   the EUROfusion Tokamak Exploitation Team,   the MAST-U Team
Published: June 2024

This experimental study presents an in-depth investigation of the performance of the MAST-U Super-X divertor during NBI-heated operation (up to 2.5 MW) focussing on volumetric ion sources and sinks as well as power losses during detachment. The particle balance and power loss analysis revealed the crucial role of Molecular Activated Recombination and Dissociation (MAR and MAD) ion sinks in divertor particle and power balance, which remain pronounced in the change from ohmic to higher power (NBI heated) L-mode conditions. The importance of MAR and MAD remains with double the absorbed NBI heating. MAD results in significant power dissipation (up to∼20%ofPSOL), mostly in the cold (Te<5eV) detached region. Theoretical and experimental evidence is found for the potential contribution ofD−to MAR and MAD, which warrants further study. These results suggest that MAR and MAD can be relevant in higher power conditions than the ohmic conditions studied previously. Post-processing reactor-scale simulations suggests that MAR and MAD can play a significant role in divertor physics and synthetic diagnostic signals of reactor-scale devices, which are currently underestimated in exhaust simulations. This raises implications for the accuracy of reactor-scale divertor simulations of particularly tightly baffled (alternative) divertor configurations.
Compatibility of divertor detachment and ELM suppression in DIII-D high-

β

p

plasmas with ITER-similar shape
Authors: Wu D.G. , Wang L. , Wang H.Q. , Garofalo A.M. , Gong X.Z. , Ding S. , Wang Y.F. , Lan H. , Yan N. , McClenaghan J. , Weisberg D.B. , Hyatt A.W. , Osborne T.H. , Eldon D. , Fenstermacher M.E. , Scotti F. , Yang Q.Q. , Huang J. , Qian J.P. , Li K.D. , Liu J.B.
Published: June 2024

Integration of transient and steady-state divertor heat fluxes control with a high-performance core is necessary for future fusion reactors. In recent DIII-D high-

β

p

experiments, divertor detachment and simultaneous edge localized mode (ELM) suppression are demonstrated while the plasma confinement quality is maintained high in ITER-similar shape. By optimizing the neon injection in high-

β

p

scenario with ITER-similar shape, deep detachment and ELM suppression are achieved with a high-performance core (

β

N

∼ 2.8,

β

p

∼ 2.3) at

q

95

∼ 7.5. Partial divertor detachment and suppression of large ELMs are achieved at

q

95

∼ 6. The stability analyses suggest that with low neon injection, the density pedestal becomes higher and steeper and the

T

i

profile also increases, therefore the increased edge pressure and higher current density destabilize the Peeling-Ballooning mode (PBM), which would lead to a large ELM collapse. With strong neon gas puffing, the significantly reduced pedestal pressure and current density, due to the degraded

T

e

pedestal, lead to the stabilization of PBM and ELMs are suppressed. For both cases, the coupling between the large radius internal transport barrier (ITB) and edge pedestal is the key reason for maintaining high global performance. The formation of large radius ITB compensates for pedestal degradation. Such results could provide an attractive scenario to well control the transient and steady-state heat flux onto the divertor plates while maintaining good plasma performance, which is an important step toward the steady-state operation of future fusion reactors.
Research on Distribution Automation Testing Platform Based on Kubernetes Technology
Authors: Xudong Song , Ya Wu , Yao Yao , Bei Li
Published: June 2024

In this paper, the problems of offline testing, manufacturer collaboration, and inconsistent standardization of existing test platforms are addressed in this study, with a special focus on complex field test scenarios and under-applied test data. To solve this problem, a test platform for distribution automation (DA) equipment based on Kubernetes technology is proposed. First, the composition and testing process of the DA testing system are elaborated in detail, and then a new testing platform is constructed by introducing Kubernetes technology. Finally, the feasibility of the platform is verified by building the new DA test platform based on Kubernetes technology for experiments. This study aims to improve the effectiveness of the test platform, promote the full application of field test scenarios and test data, and provide a more consistent and efficient solution for the testing of distribution automation equipment.
Research on the impact of intelligent battery charging and swapping cabinets on distribution networks: a predictive model based on urban traffic conditions
Authors: Ming Liang , Zhang Zongming , Zhu Feng , Liu Jingwei
Published: June 2024

The ownership of electric bicycles has rapidly increased, which has led to the emergence of intelligent charging and swapping cabinets, eliminating the need for users to charge their electric bicycles at charging cabinets. Instead, they can simply swap the batteries at the charging and swapping cabinets, thereby improving efficiency. However, the charging process within these cabinets also impacts the power distribution grid. Therefore, this paper proposes a charging load prediction model based on urban road conditions and dynamic algorithms. The model combines matrix analysis and dynamic search using the Dijkstra algorithm to simulate electric bicycle driving. The model can navigate around congested roads, reflect the impact of traffic conditions on electric bicycles’ speed and power consumption, and consider the effects of driving, battery consumption, and charging cabinets on the power distribution grid during the charging process. This more accurately reflects the real-time interaction between dynamic driving and traffic conditions. The predicted results also illustrate the regional and temporal variations in the demand for electric bicycle loads, as well as the impact of charging loads on the voltage at different nodes of the power distribution grid.
Hybrid topology and circuit design of power converter based on Si and SiC
Authors: Yang Zaixin , Minfu A , Jian Xusheng
Published: June 2024

The application of a large-capacity power conversion system (PCS) is of great significance for solving the problem of safe energy storage and new energy consumption in new-type power systems. The research and promotion of semiconductor components such as Si and SiC, as well as hybrid topology, have further improved the power density of the converter. In this paper, the topology and circuit design of the converter based on Si and SiC are analyzed by comparison. An SVM modulation method is used for the Three-Level, Two-Stage, Decoupled Active NPC converter (3L-ANPC). Furthermore, a power circuit board (PCB) with Si and SiC is designed. Innovative optimization of the power line and SiC layout in PCB has achieved a good current-sharing effect of the converter. Finally, the effectiveness of current-sharing for a three-level hybrid converter is verified through a double pulse test.
Research on road detection algorithm for power operation safety inspection robots
Authors: Li Luyao , Wang Kai , Fei Zhengming , He Ke
Published: June 2024

The safety of on-site power operations affects the socio-economic development and stable operation, and safety inspection is an important part of power production. To improve work efficiency, intelligent inspection vehicles, inspection robots, and artificial intelligence methods, including image recognition and video recognition technologies, are widely used in power operation safety inspection. Due to the complex environment of power operation sites, inspection vehicles are unable to reach all corners of the operation site. Compact and more flexible quadruped, four-wheeled, or two-wheeled inspection robots mounted on vehicles can cover more operation points, forming a new mode of automated inspection in both air and land with unmanned aerial drones. In the practical application of inspection robots, the primary challenge lies in road recognition and route optimization. To address the difficulty of road detection in the operation of inspection robots, this paper proposes a real-time road detection algorithm based on the Encoder-Decoder structure. It utilizes the idea of binary segmentation to extract semantic information of lane lines in the plane feature map and completes the feature map matching through a road line fitting algorithm, effectively improving the accuracy of road recognition at the operation site and laying a foundation for the automation of on-site inspection by inspection robots. The experimental results on the Tusimple validation set demonstrate that the proposed algorithm achieves an accuracy (acc) of 96.73% and a frame rate of 112.1 FPS, showcasing outstanding detection accuracy and efficient processing speed, providing a reference for future applications of comprehensive automated safety inspection in both air and land.
Exploring the InSAR signature associated with river-sourced recharge in California’s San Joaquin Valley
Authors: Neely Wesley R , Knight Rosemary , Kang Seogi , Goebel Meredith
Published: June 2024

Recharge is a critical component for understanding aquifer systems and the sustainable management of groundwater resources, yet this process is challenging to measure at policy-relevant spatiotemporal scales. Building upon previous research, we tested the hypothesis that InSAR can be used to observe river-sourced recharge if the underlying recharge pathways are associated with sufficient clay content. Our analysis leveraged the decomposition of InSAR time series with interpretations of 3D resistivity models derived from airborne electromagnetic (AEM) surveys. We focused our analysis on two study sites where high density AEM data were available and river-sourced recharge is determined to have occurred during wet years: (1) near Fresno, California and (2) near Visalia, California. Sediment type and hydrogeological structure from AEM supported our hypothesis with the InSAR signature attributed to river-sourced recharge occurring only in the study site with semi-confined to confined conditions and relatively high fraction of interbedded clay within recharge pathways. The timing to peak amplitude, the key feature we wanted to isolate in the InSAR data, near Visalia was interpreted as a pressure pulse front associated with river-sourced recharge propagating into the San Joaquin Valley. This study further validated the potential of InSAR, coupled with AEM data, to map and monitor river-sourced recharge in aquifer systems. As InSAR data become more accessible, this approach holds promise for broader applications in groundwater science and management worldwide.
Quantifying albedo impact and radiative forcing of management practices in European wheat cropping systems
Authors: Yu Ke , Su Yang , Ciais Philippe , Lauerwald Ronny , Ceschia Eric , Makowski David , Xu Yidi , Abbessi Ezzeddine , Bazzi Hassan , Tallec Tiphaine , Brut Aurore , Heinesch Bernard , Brümmer Christian , Schmidt Marius , Acosta Manuel , Buysse Pauline , Gruenwald Thomas , Goll Daniel S
Published: June 2024

Management practices that increase the surface albedo of cultivated land could mitigate climate change, with similar effectiveness to practices that reduce greenhouse gas emissions or favor natural CO2 sequestration. Yet, the efficiency of such practices is barely quantified. In this study, we quantified the impacts of seven different management practices on the surface albedo of winter wheat fields (nitrogen fertilizer, herbicide, fungicide, sowing, harvest, tillage, and crop residues) by analyzing observed daily albedo dynamics from eight European flux-tower sites with interpretable machine learning. We found that management practices have significant influences on surface albedo dynamics compared with climate and soil conditions. The nitrogen fertilizer application has the largest effect among the seven practices as it increases surface albedo by 0.015 ± 0.004 during the first two months after application, corresponding to a radiative forcing of −4.39 ± 1.22 W m−2. Herbicide induces a modest albedo decrease of 0.005 ± 0.002 over 150 d after application by killing weeds in the fallow period only, resulting in a magnitude of radiative forcing of 1.33 ± 1.06 W m−2 which is higher than radiative forcing of other practices in the same period. The substantial temporal evolution of the albedo impacts of management practices increases uncertainties in the estimated albedo-mediated climate impacts of management practices. Although these albedo effects are smaller than published estimates of the greenhouse gas-mediated biogeochemical practices, they are nevertheless significant and should thus be accounted for in climate impact assessments.
Design of photonic topological corner states for electrically pumped terahertz quantum cascade laser
Authors: Li Jixin , Liu Yiying , Zeng Yongquan , Zheng Bin , Chen Hongsheng , Han Song
Published: June 2024

Photonic topological corner states (PTCS) represent discrete zero modes whose frequencies stay in the topological bandgap and wavefunctions exhibit strong spatial localization, which is highly desirable for efficient surface-emitting lasers. While being extensively investigated in optically pumped lasers, the electrically pumped PTCS lasers are merely reported due to the lack of suitable configurations. In this paper, we propose a photonic cavity design based on the PTCSs that can be applied for electrically pumped terahertz quantum cascade lasers (QCLs). The cavity is constructed by following the canonical trivial-nontrivial domain, where the nontrivial domain with expanded and merged four QCL rods is surrounded by the trivial domain with shrunk and merged four QCL rods. Both domains follow the 2D Su–Schrieffer–Heeger (SSH) model. To further construct a fabrication-favorable 3D device, the designed QCL rod array is connected by 2D veins, which functionalize simultaneously as the intermedium for enhanced inter-/intra-cell coupling and the conductive connection to the device. The 3D numerical calculation is finally investigated.
Ab-Initio study of substitution at alkaline earth site on quaternary Heusler alloys LiXNiSb
Authors: Kumar Jagdish , Kumar Manish , Raman D K , Pal Anand
Published: June 2024

In this study, we have studied the quaternary Heusler alloys with the formula LiXNiSb (X = Be, Mg, Ca, Sr, Ba) to investigate the effect of alkaline earth elements at the X site. We explored the structural, lattice dynamics, electronic, and magnetic properties by employing the density functional theory framework in FPLAPW formalism. All the studied alloys are nonmagnetic with no magnetic moment on the Ni atom. LiBeNiSb and LiBaNiSb are dynamically unstable and exhibit imaginary phonon frequencies. The lattice constant of the studied alloys systematically increases with the size of the alkaline earth element, whereas the bulk modulus decreases. Among the stable alloys, LiMgNiSb is metallic, whereas LiCaNiSb and LiSrNiSb are semiconducting with band gap values of 0.43 and 0.34 eV, respectively. The lattice specific heat and optical properties of the semiconducting alloys have also been computed. Our results demonstrate that the studied LiXNiSb alloys can be good candidates for photovoltaic applications.
A strategic approach to sustainable wastewater management and reuse in Saudi Arabia
Authors: Haider Husnain , Ghumman Abdul Razzaq , Al-Salamah Ibrahim Saleh , Alharbi Abdulaziz , EL-Ghoul Yassine , Martuza Muhammad Ali
Published: June 2024

The Kingdom of Saudi Arabia (KSA) faces challenges in protecting its limited natural water resources. The centralized sewage treatment plants (STPs) contribute to conserving natural water resources in various regions of KSA. For sustainable wastewater management strategies in arid environments, the performance of STPs needs to be assessed for various beneficial uses in addition to the existing regulations. The present study used extensive effluent quality data of four STPs to develop a performance assessment approach using multi-criteria and principal component analyses. The performance levels were derived from the compliance rate of effluent standards with different reuses and the efficacy of biosolids management. The proposed approach evaluated the STPs based on the planned applications of treated effluents, considering the land use characteristics of each plant’s disposal point. The factors loadings obtained for the STPs, encompassing total suspended and dissolved solids, and total dissolved solids, oxidizing demanding pollutants (BOD and COD), and nutrients (NO3 and PO4), with 3 to 4 principal components demonstrating above 60% of the effluent monitoring data, established the importance of the effluent quality parameters. The effluent quality index (EQI) was developed for existing and potential reuses, e.g., irrigation, landscaping, fishery, and recreation, during dry (summer) and wet (winter) periods. All STPs showed high EQI for both periods for the present reuse standards of unrestricted irrigation and landscaping. The overall performance index, aggregating EQI and the efficacy of sludge management practices, illustrated declining performance, suggesting staged improvements (tertiary-level treatment, air floatation, sludge digestion, and waste-to-energy) through a periodic assessment process. STPs must enhance their sludge management efficacy to produce Class-A biosolids and waste-to-energy. The proposed approach will help make strategic decisions regarding improvements for STPs and the allocation of financial resources to protect natural resources in various regions across KSA.
A lightweight convolutional neural network for working condition intelligent diagnosis of pumping units
Authors: Pan Shenghu , Ling Qiaomei , Tu Lei
Published: June 2024

Accurate diagnosis of pumping unit working conditions and prompt fault resolution are vital for ensuring safe production in oilfields. In response to the limitations of traditional convolutional neural networks in diagnosing pumping unit working conditions, a lightweight convolutional neural network is proposed. This network addresses the challenges of shallow networks, which cannot effectively extract indicator diagram features, and deep networks, which suffer from excessive parameterization and high redundancy. Firstly, the combination of depthwise separable convolution and dilated convolution efficiently extracts the contour features of the indicator diagram while reducing the model’s parameter count. Additionally, the Attention Embedded Atrous Spatial Pyramid Pooling and the coordinate attention mechanism are incorporated to further capture the shape and position information of indicator diagram lines. The experimental results demonstrate that the proposed lightweight network has 1.26 M parameters and storage size of 4.82 M. Compared to ResNet-50, VGG-16, and MobileNet-V2, its parameter count and storage size are approximately 1/18, 1/11, and 1/2, respectively, making it easily deployable on hardware-limited diagnostic platforms. Moreover, with an average diagnostic accuracy of 98.17%, surpassing existing networks, it enables more effective diagnosis of pumping unit working conditions, thereby enhancing the reliability and accuracy of pumping unit operational monitoring.
Transition metal sulfide nanostructures: synthesis and application in metal-air batteries
Authors: Marimuthu Sundaramoorthy , Kannan Palanisamy , Maduraiveeran Govindhan
Published: June 2024

Owing to great energy density, eco-friendliness, safety and security, and cost-effectiveness, rechargeable metal–air batteries (MABs) have engrossed substantial devotion. The MABs signify one of the most feasible forthcoming alternatives to powering electric vehicles (EVs) and smart-grid energy storage. The progress of MABs has offered a solution benefitting from its much higher theoretical energy density than that of lithium-ion batteries (LIB). However, certain technical difficulties allied with metal–air batteries include sluggish electrochemical oxygen reaction kinetics that has yet to be fixed. The transition single metal and mixed metals sulfides (TMS) nanostructures have validated an advanced electrocatalytic oxygen reduction reaction (ORR) and oxygen evolution reaction (OER) performance, due to their higher electronic conductivity and fast-charge transfer kinetics. The bifunctional electrocatalytic act of the TMSs can be enhanced by altering the electronic configuration, double layer structure and interface, valence state, and vacancies. In this minireview, the preparation, properties, and testing of electrode components of transition metal sulfides (TMS) nanomaterials towards different types of metal–air batteries (aqueous and non-aqueous), the fundamentals, configuration of battery, choice of electrode materials, electrolyte, and separator, current challenges as well as perspectives of the design of high-performance MABs are also discussed based on the existing execution.
Stochastic equations of motion
Authors: Abraham Nitzan
Published: June 2024

This chapter introduces several types of stochastic equation of motion and discusses their solutions. (1) The Langevin equation. (2) Master equations. (3) Counting statistics. (4) Markovian and non-Markovian time evolution. (5) The Chapman–Kolmogorov equation, Fokker–Planck equation and Smoluchowski equation. (6) Passage time distributions and the mean first passage time.
Linear response theory
Authors: Nitzan Abraham
Published: June 2024

This chapter introduces linear response theory, a general way to describe non-equilibrium system in the vicinity of equilibrium. (1) Classical static and dynamic linear response theory. (2) Quantum static and dynamic linear response theory. (3) Causality and the Kramers–Kronig relations (4) Examples: Mobility, conductivity and diffusion. (5) Thermal noise.
Invited commentary: unveiling the grim reality—suicide mortality among formerly incarcerated individuals in North Carolina
Authors: Vest Noel
Published: June 2024

In the article by Fitch et al. (Am J Epidemiol 2024;193(3):489-499), the authors highlight the concerning prevalence of suicide mortality among formerly incarcerated individuals in North Carolina. Their retrospective study reveals a doubled suicide risk postrelease, with notable disparities among demographic groups. Urgent interventions are needed, including comprehensive reentry programs and systemic reforms to address structural inequalities. I suggest tailored support services to mitigate suicide risks and promote successful community reintegration, advocating for equity, justice, and human dignity in postrelease efforts.
Causal analysis of air pollution mixtures: estimands, positivity, and extrapolation
Authors: Antonelli Joseph , Zigler Corwin
Published: June 2024

Causal inference for air pollution mixtures is an increasingly important issue with appreciable challenges. When the exposure is a multivariate mixture, there are many exposure contrasts that may be of nominal interest for causal effect estimation, but the complex joint mixture distribution often renders observed data extremely limited in their ability to inform estimates of many commonly defined causal effects. We use potential outcomes to (1) define causal effects of air pollution mixtures, (2) formalize the key assumption of mixture positivity required for estimation, and (3) offer diagnostic metrics for positivity violations in the mixture setting that allow researchers to assess the extent to which data can actually support estimation of mixture effects of interest. For settings where there is limited empirical support, we redefine causal estimands that apportion causal effects according to whether they can be directly informed by observed data versus rely entirely on model extrapolation, isolating key sources of information on the causal effect of an air pollution mixture. The ideas are deployed to assess the ability of a national US data set on the chemical components of ambient particulate matter air pollution to support estimation of a variety of causal mixture effects.

This article is part of a Special Collection on Environmental Epidemiology.
Supervised learning of enhancer–promoter specificity based on genome-wide perturbation studies highlights areas for improvement in learning
Authors: Barth Dylan , Van Richard , Cardwell Jonathan , Han Mira V
Published: June 2024

Motivation

Understanding the rules that govern enhancer-driven transcription remains a central unsolved problem in genomics. Now with multiple massively parallel enhancer perturbation assays published, there are enough data that we can utilize to learn to predict enhancer–promoter (EP) relationships in a data-driven manner.

Results

We applied machine learning to one of the largest enhancer perturbation studies integrated with transcription factor (TF) and histone modification ChIP-seq. The results uncovered a discrepancy in the prediction of genome-wide data compared to data from targeted experiments. Relative strength of contact was important for prediction, confirming the basic principle of EP regulation. Novel features such as the density of the enhancers/promoters in the genomic region was found to be important, highlighting our lack of understanding on how other elements in the region contribute to the regulation. Several TF peaks were identified that improved the prediction by identifying the negatives and reducing False Positives. In summary, integrating genomic assays with enhancer perturbation studies increased the accuracy of the model, and provided novel insights into the understanding of enhancer-driven transcription.

Availability and implementation

The trained models, data, and the source code are available at http://doi.org/10.5281/zenodo.11290386 and https://github.com/HanLabUNLV/sleps.
De novo and inherited monoallelic variants in TUBA4A cause ataxia and spasticity
Authors: Benkirane Mehdi , Bonhomme Marion , Morsy Heba , Safgren Stephanie L , Marelli Cecilia , Chaussenot Annabelle , Smedley Damian , Cipriani Valentina , de Sainte-Agathe Jean-Madeleine , Ding Can , Larrieu Lise , Vestito Letizia , Margot Henri , Lesca Gaetan , Ramond Francis , Castrioto Anna , Baux David , Verheijen Jan , Sansa Emna , Giunti Paola , Haetty Aline , Bergougnoux Anne , Pointaux Morgane , Ardouin Olivier , Van Goethem Charles , Vincent Marie-Claire , Hadjivassiliou Marios , Cossée Mireille , Rouaud Tiphaine , Bartsch Oliver , Freeman William D , Wierenga Klaas J , Klee Eric W , Vandrovcova Jana , Houlden Henry , Debant Anne , Koenig Michel
Published: June 2024

Alpha-tubulin 4A encoding gene (TUBA4A) has been associated with familial amyotrophic lateral sclerosis and frontotemporal dementia, based on identification of likely pathogenic variants in patients from distinct amyotrophic lateral sclerosis and frontotemporal dementia cohorts.

By screening a multicentric French cohort of 448 unrelated probands presenting with cerebellar ataxia, we identified ultra-rare TUBA4A missense variants, all being absent from public databases and predicted pathogenic by multiple in silico tools. In addition, gene burden analyses in the 100 000 Genomes project (100KGP) showed enrichment of TUBA4A rare variants in the inherited ataxia group compared to controls [odds ratio: 57.0847 (10.2−576.7); P = 4.02 ×10−7].

Taken together, we report 12 patients presenting with spasticity and/or cerebellar ataxia and harbouring a predicted pathogenic TUBA4A missense mutation, including five confirmed de novo cases and a mutation previously reported in a large family presenting with spastic ataxia. Cultured fibroblasts from three patients harbouring distinct TUBA4A missense showed significant alterations in microtubule organization and dynamics, providing insight of TUBA4A variants pathogenicity.

Our data confirm the identification of a hereditary spastic ataxia disease gene with variable age of onset, expanding the clinical spectrum of TUBA4A associated phenotypes.
Vascular tumours
Authors: Katsumata Fuminori , Maekawa Takeo , Otaki Kaoru , Umemoto Naoka
Published: June 2024

This study discusses the diagnostic and therapeutic complexities of a rare vascular tumour. Utilizing FOSB staining as a diagnostic tool, we illustrate its efficacy through a detailed case presentation. Additionally, we explore innovative therapeutic approaches, including targeted therapies that have shown promising results, thereby potentially improving outcomes for patients.
MRI susceptibility artefacts caused by orthodontic wire
Authors: Iwamoto Yuri , Shimamoto Hiroaki , Felemban Doaa , Terai Tomoyuki , Kreiborg Sven , Mallya Sanjay M , Yang Fan-pei Gloria , Tanikawa Chihiro , Murakami Shumei
Published: June 2024

Objectives

To evaluate magnetic susceptibility artefacts produced by orthodontic wires on MRI and the influence of wire properties and MRI image sequences on the magnitude of the artefact.

Methods

Arch form orthodontic wires [four stainless steels (SS), one cobalt chromium (CC) alloy, 13 titanium (Ti) alloys] were embedded in a polyester phantom, and scanned using a 1.5-T superconducting magnet scanner with an eight-channel phased-array coil. All wires were scanned with T1-weighted spin echo (SE) and gradient echo (GRE) sequences according to the American Society for Testing and Materials (ASTM) F2119-07 standard. The phantom also scanned other eight sequences. Artefacts were measured using the ASTM F2119-07 definition and OsiriX software. Artefact volume was analysed according to metal composition, wire length, number of wires, wire thickness, and imaging sequence as factors.

Results

With SE/GRE, black/white artefacts volumes from all SS wires were significantly larger than those produced by CC and Ti wires (P < .01). With the GRE, the black artefacts volume was the highest with the SS wires. With the SE, the black artefacts volume was small, whereas white artefacts were noticeable. The cranio-caudal extent of the artefacts was significantly longer with SS wires (P < .01). Although a direct relationship of wire length, number of wires, and wire thickness with artefact volume was noted, these factors did not influence artefact extension in the cranio-caudal direction.

Conclusions

Ferromagnetic/paramagnetic orthodontic wires create artefacts due to local alteration of magnetic field homogeneity. The SS-type wires produced the largest artefacts followed by CC and Ti.
ECCO Guidelines on Therapeutics in Crohn’s Disease: Surgical Treatment
Authors: Adamina Michel , Minozzi Silvia , Warusavitarne Janindra , Buskens Christianne Johanna , Chaparro Maria , Verstockt Bram , Kopylov Uri , Yanai Henit , Vavricka Stephan R , Sigall-Boneh Rotem , Sica Giuseppe S , Reenaers Catherine , Peros Georgios , Papamichael Konstantinos , Noor Nurulamin , Moran Gordon William , Maaser Christian , Luglio Gaetano , Kotze Paulo Gustavo , Kobayashi Taku , Karmiris Konstantinos , Kapizioni Christina , Iqbal Nusrat , Iacucci Marietta , Holubar Stefan , Hanzel Jurij , Sabino João Guedelha , Gisbert Javier P , Fiorino Gionata , Fidalgo Catarina , Ellu Pierre , El-Hussuna Alaa , de Groof Joline , Czuber-Dochan Wladyslawa , Casanova María José , Burisch Johan , Brown Steven Ross , Bislenghi Gabriele , Bettenworth Dominik , Battat Robert , Atreya Raja , Allocca Mariangela , Agrawal Manasi , Raine Tim , Gordon Hannah , Myrelid Pär
Published: June 2024

This article is the second in a series of two publications on the European Crohn’s and Colitis Organisation [ECCO] evidence-based consensus on the management of Crohn’s disease. The first article covers medical management; the present article addresses surgical management, including preoperative aspects and drug management before surgery. It also provides technical advice for a variety of common clinical situations. Both articles together represent the evidence-based recommendations of the ECCO for Crohn’s disease and an update of prior ECCO Guidelines.
Intra-aortic balloon pump treatment in an adult patient with a Fontan circulation and acute heart failure: a case report
Authors: Langseth Miriam Sjåstad , Nordstrand Njord , Erikssen Gunnar
Published: June 2024

Background

There is limited evidence for the use of an intra-aortic balloon pump (IABP) in adult patients with a total cavopulmonary, or Fontan circulation.

Case summary

A patient in his twenties with a Fontan circulation presented with sepsis, pneumonia, and pulmonary oedema. He was born with a hypoplastic left ventricle, atrioventricular septal defect, and hypoplastic aortic arch, and a total cavopulmonary circulation had been established within his first years of life. Standard of care treatment with antibiotics, non-invasive ventilatory support, loop diuretics, and vasopressors was initiated. Due to persistent pulmonary congestion and increasing general fatigue, an IABP was placed via a femoral artery to offload the failing systemic ventricle. Secondary to IABP treatment, mean arterial pressure rose, and vasodilatory nitroprusside could be introduced. Over 4 days of IABP treatment, the patient’s general condition and ventricular systolic function improved significantly.

Discussion

This case suggests that IABP treatment was important in the recovery of our patient with a Fontan circulation, pneumonia, and heart failure. We propose that during IABP treatment, an increase in stroke volume and a reduction in ventricular filling pressure is achieved, thereby increasing the transpulmonary pressure gradient that is central to pulmonary blood flow in Fontan patients. More definitive evidence is necessary to confirm our hypotheses.
Dyadic relationships between informal caregivers and older adults with chronic heart failure: a systematic review and meta-synthesis
Authors: Yoong Si Qi , Tan Rachel , Jiang Ying
Published: June 2024

Aims

To synthesize the qualitative evidence on dyadic relationships between informal caregivers and older adults with chronic heart failure (HF).

Methods and results

A systematic review and meta-synthesis were conducted. Eight databases were searched for English peer-reviewed studies and grey literature published from inception to 27 February 2024. Qualitative and mixed-method studies involving older adults ≥55 years old with chronic HF and discussing patient–caregiver relationships in community settings were included. Data were synthesized using Sandelowski and Barroso’s two-step framework. A meta-summary was developed using thematic analysis, and findings were synthesized using the Theory of Dyadic Illness Management. Twenty-four studies from 2008 to 2024 were included (n = 580 participants). The meta-summary consisted of four themes and nine subthemes: (i) Characteristics of dyad relationships, (ii) How both parts of the dyad care for each other, (iii) Chronic HF and dyad relationships, and (iv) Knowledge of managing chronic HF. These were reorganized into the meta-synthesis: dyadic appraisal, dyadic management behaviours, dyadic health, contextual factors affecting dyadic relationships and management behaviours, and illness management as a dyadic phenomenon.

Conclusion

Investigating relationship dynamics and their impact on dyads and chronic HF self-care is vital. Where possible, healthcare providers should prioritize dyadic care when caregivers are involved and deliver individualized care to improve patient and caregiver outcomes. Assessing and optimizing dyadic relations, addressing individual perceptions and needs as part of clinical care, and before implementing self-care interventions in research may help ensure that self-care is appropriately tailored and would not be hindered by relationship conflicts.
Increased risk of atrial fibrillation with low cardiovascular health: life essential 8 in a dutch population
Authors: Te Hoonte F , Van Der Schouw Y T , Spronk M , Boer J M A , Verschuren W M M , Bots M L , Vernooij R W M , Uijl A
Published: June 2024

Introduction

The American Heart Association (AHA) introduced the concept of Life’s Essential 8 (LE8) to measure and monitor cardiovascular health (CVH) to prevent cardiovascular diseases.

Purpose

This study examined the association between LE8 and the incidence of atrial fibrillation (AF).

Methods

In total, 37,807 participants from the population-based European Prospective Investigation Into Cancer and Nutrition-Netherlands (EPIC-NL) cohort were included. The components diet, physical activity, sleep health, nicotine exposure, body mass index, blood glucose, blood lipids, blood pressure were all given a score between 0 and 100 and an overall LE8 score was created by averaging the component scores. The overall LE8 score was categorized into low cardiovascular health (CVH, 0-49), moderate CVH (50-79), and high CVH (80-100). AF cases were obtained through linkage with registries. A Cox proportional hazards model adjusted for age, sex, education level, heart failure, coronary heart disease, and alcohol consumption, was used to assess the association between LE8 and AF.

Results

The mean age of participants was 49 years ± 12 years and 75% of participants were female. During a median follow-up of 15.3 years (interquartile range: 14.1 – 26.5 years), 833 AF cases (2.3%) were identified. Compared to the participants with a high CVH score (19.5%), participants with a low CVH score (5%) had a 2 times higher hazard for incident AF (hazard ratio (HR) 1.99 [95% confidence interval (95%CI) 1.49 – 2.65]). Furthermore, a decrease in the number of ideal components was associated with a higher risk for incident AF (HR 1.11 [95%CI 1.05 – 1.18]).

Conclusions

The results show that a worse CVH, indicated by a lower LE8 score, is associated with an increased risk for incident AF. Preventing AF could potentially be achieved by implementing the LE8 score in clinical practice. Especially since LE8 is a tool that is easy to interpret and can be applied by healthcare providers to encourage patients to make improvements in the risk factors for AF.