bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A Review of Technological Innovations in Rubber Recycling
Authors: Asubadin-Espin Pablo , De-la-Cruz Rubén , Buele Jorge
Published: December 2024

Rubber waste management poses a significant environmental challenge globally, exacerbated by the growing production of tires and limited recycling capacity in various industries. This study addresses the need for innovations in rubber recycling by identifying economic and structural barriers that hinder the effective implementation of advanced technologies. The goal is to analyze and evaluate technological innovations, such as enhanced tire marking and pyrolysis, and their potential to improve recycling efficiency and promote a circular economy. The methodology involved a systematic review of the literature, covering recent studies on recycling technology and extended producer responsibility models. Recovery rates of rubber below 4% were identified in some regions, highlighting the urgency of adopting these innovations. The main findings indicate that while technologies like pyrolysis can transform waste into valuable resources, their implementation remains limited due to a lack of infrastructure and economic support. It is emphasized that although promising solutions exist, their success depends on a comprehensive approach that considers socioeconomic realities and the need for supportive policies and public awareness.
Numerical modeling of cell spacing effects on thermal runaway induced by thermal abuse in an air-cooled lithium-ion battery module
Authors: Ordóñez Walter , Paccha-Herrera Edwin , Chávez-Romero Raúl , Coronel-Villavicencio Iván , Ramírez-Cabrera Fernando , Ortega-Reyes Cristian
Published: December 2024

Lithium-ion batteries are extensively used in sectors such as telecommunications, industry, military and aerospace applications due to their high energy density and long lifespan. The phenomenon of thermal runaway, characterized by an exponential increase in temperature within the cells, poses a serious risk because of the potential rupture of the cell casing and the release of flammable gases, which can propagate to adjacent cells and the entire system. This research focused on modeling the impact of cell spacing in lithium-ion battery modules with air cooling on thermal runaway by using a computational fluid dynamics (CFD) approach. The semi-empirical NTGK model through ANSYS Fluent software was employed. Different cell arrangements were evaluated under thermal abuse conditions. Models under forced convection at 2 m/s and cell spacing of 28 mm and 38 mm successfully prevented the temperature from exceeding 200 °C, thereby avoiding the onset of thermal runaway and demonstrating a trend towards temperature reduction, indicating an effective thermal management.
Simulation and Analysis of Doubly-Fed Induction Generator: A Case Study at the Villonaco Wind Farm
Authors: Hoyos María Alicia , Ramirez-Cabrera Fernando , Chuncho-Morocho Juan
Published: December 2024

Wind energy is currently instrumental in the transition to sustainable energy systems. Modern wind turbines, such as DFIGs, operate at variable speed and offer efficiency. The Villonaco Wind Farm, located in rugged terrain at high altitude, presents a unique case to examine the performance of these turbines. The objective is to analyze the performance of a DFIG under the specific conditions of the CEV. A DFIG generator was designed and modeled in Matlab/Simulink, using power converters with PWM modulation and vector control. A wound rotor induction machine was simulated with the stator connected to the grid. The simulation showed that variations in air density significantly affect rotor currents and electromagnetic torque. As wind speed increases, the difference in generated power between the two densities also increases, indicating higher conversion efficiency in denser air conditions. At a wind speed of 5 m/s, the power generated at a density of 1.225 kg/m3 is 186.842 W, while at a density of 0.89 kg/m3 it is 136.475 W, resulting in a 26.96% decrease in power generated. This indicates that the specific conditions of Villonaco benefit the use of DFIG. This study will serve for future research in the optimization of wind turbines in terrain with similar conditions.
Phytoplankton community structure in the habitat of the endemic fish species Bilih (Mystacoleucus padangensis Blkr) in Lake Singkarak, West Sumatra, Indonesia
Authors: Sulastri S , Nasution S H , Syawal M S , Akhdiana Ira
Published: December 2024

Bilih (Mystacoleucus padangensis Blkr.) is an endemic fish species with a high commodity value of inland fisheries in Lake Singkarak. The bilih population has declined due to over exploitation and environmental degradation. The phytoplankton community structure in the fish habitat of bilih was analyzed to assess the ecological status of the habitat and to suggest any bilih fish management measures. Phytoplankton and water quality data was collected at 12 stations, including littoral and pelagic habitats, in September 2022, May 2023 and July 2023. Water quality, such as temperature, pH, DO, turbidity, conductivity, and TDS, is suitable for fish and phytoplankton growth. We identified 52 species of phytoplankton from six divisions. Phytoplankton composition consists of Bacillariophyta, Chlorophyta, Cyanophyta, Pyrrophyta, Euglenophyta, and Cryptophyta. Cyanophyta contributing 73% to 83% characterized by high transparency was recorded in Paninggahan, Sumpur, and Ngalao stations, especially in May 2023. Based on the phytoplankton abundance range of 159 to 12200 individuals/L and the functional group of phytoplankton, the status of the bilih habitat is meso-eutrophic. The dominant phytoplankton changed during observation periods. Ulotrix sp. and Ceratium hirudinella were dominant in September 2022, while Cylindrosperopsis raciborskii and Pseudoanabaena were dominant in May 2003. The dominant phytoplankton species in July 2023 were Synedra ulna, Cylindrospermopsis raciborskii, and Merismopedia sp. The Shannon-Wiener diversity index range of 0.309 to 2.186 showed that that water quality condition was moderately polluted. The species richness index showed a wide range from 0.986 to 3.129. Monitoring water quality and phytoplankton community is important to prevent the possibility of cyanobacteria blooming. Conservation areas of bilih should be implemented in stations with a low abundance of Cyanophyta.
Antibiotic susceptibility patterns of bacterial isolates from Rangkui River
Authors: Sugiarti  , Nafisyah E , Melati I , Lukman  , Nurtjahya E , Maghfiroh M
Published: December 2024

Rangkui River has served the locals in Bangka Island as a significant freshwater resource. Unfortunately, it has shown water quality deterioration over the past decades. Various land-uses on the catchment area allegedly have contributed to changing water quality of the river. In the previous investigation in 2017, it was revealed that the highest and lowest abundance of coliform were found in downstream and upstream area, respectively, which were also associated with the particular water qualities being observed in each sampling sites. Further in this study, bacterial isolates of interest obtained from Rangkui River were tested for the antibiotic susceptibility pattern. The spectrum of antibiotic susceptibility among bacteria depicts how well the isolates respond to the differing concentrations of some certain antibiotics. Two antibiotics were selected i.e., ampicillin and tetracycline. The paper strips for testing were equipped with the increasing concentrations of antibiotics from 0.016 to 256 µg/mL. It was interesting that isolate X4 and X6 showed resistance upon ampicillin up to 256 µg/mL. One isolate (X6) surprisingly demonstrated resistance to tetracycline from 0.016 to 256 µg/mL. Isolate X4 was identified to be more similar to the genus of Escherichia whereas X6 was genetically closer to Acinetobacter according to BLASTn 16S rRNA database. Other isolates were susceptible to tetracycline and ampicillin with the tested concentrations ranging from 0.50 to 256 µg/mL. These findings not only raise the concerns over the emergence of antibiotic resistant bacteria but also encourage actions and hygiene practices to prevent the spread of antibiotic resistance.
The effect of tides on the dynamics of water quality in Indonesian tropical tidal lakes
Authors: Muhtadi A , Leidonald R , Cordova M R
Published: December 2024

A tidal lake demonstrates dynamic water characteristics significantly influenced by tidal dynamics. Lake Siombak, situated in Medan, North Sumatra, Indonesia, serves as a prime example of such a tropical tidal lake. This research aims to investigate the impact of tidal dynamics and cycles on the water quality of Lake Siombak. Water quality assessments were conducted across multiple periods, including November 2018, February, June, and August 2019, coinciding with both full moon and neap tides. Various parameters, including temperature, salinity, pH, total dissolved solids (TDS), electrical conductivity (EC), biological oxygen demand (BOD), and chemical oxygen demand (COD), were scrutinized. Sampling occurred at eight predetermined locations throughout Siombak Lake, with measurements taken at both surface and bottom water levels. Data analysis, employing descriptive techniques, was conducted in association with tidal phenomena. Findings revealed that measurements of temperature, pH, and dissolved oxygen exhibited no significant difference between full moon and neap tides, irrespective of high or low tide conditions. In contrast, salinity, TDS, EC, BOD, and COD measurements showcased varying effects between high and low tides across all seasons. Notably, values for salinity, TDS, EC, BOD, and COD during early tide consistently displayed lower levels compared to those during full moon periods.
Physical and chemical characteristics of the water quality associated with macrophytes community in Chenderoh Reservoir, Malaysia
Authors: Ismail S N , Mansor A , Ahmad A , Mansor M
Published: December 2024

A study was conducted From June 2015 to May 2016 on the spatial and temporal changes of physico-chemical parameters that were related to the distribution of the macrophytes community in Chenderoh Reservoir. Field sampling was carried out at eighteen sampling stations, spaced one kilometer apart, throughout the reservoir’s main river channel and embayments. The distribution of macrophyte species was surveyed using quadrat and line transect techniques. Several water quality measures were monitored in-situ at three distinct depths: the surface, Secchi depth, and the bottom. Water samples were also collected for additional examination. Total suspended solids (TSS), ammonia-nitrogen (NH3), orthophosphate (PO4), nitrite-nitrogen (NO2), nitrate-nitrogen (NO3), and chlorophyll a (Chl a) were all analyzed in the lab. The macrophyte population at Chenderoh Reservoir was shaped by a number of parameters, including temperature, dissolved oxygen, NH3, PO4, NO2, and NO3 (Secchi depth; SD), and Chl a. On the other hand, the sampling locations in the lotic ecosystem were found to be in an early mesotrophic condition, according to the current trophic state as determined by the concentration of Chl a (TSIChl), while the sample points in the lentic environment had a moderate to high mesotrophic status. This study showed that water quality characteristics, which are influenced by seasonality and fluctuations in water level caused by dam operation, predicted the distribution of macrophytes at all sampling locations in Chenderoh Reservoir. Macrophyte communities regulate the characteristics of water quality, which can serve as a natural filter and bioaccumulator while reducing the reservoir’s propensity for eutrophication. The diversity, distribution, and spatial and temporal scale dynamics of macrophytes in a shallow tropical reservoir are better understood as a result of this study.
Development of double-foil soft X-ray array imaging (DSXAI) diagnostic on HL-2A tokamak
Authors: XU 许 Hangqi 航齐 , LAN 兰 Tao 涛 , XU 许 Min 敏 , WANG 王 Zhanhui 占辉 , NIE 聂 Lin 林 , WU 吴 Jie 捷 , ZHANG 张 Sen 森 , ZU 祖 Yiming 一鸣 , LIU 刘 Yi 仪 , DONG 董 Yunbo 云波 , MAO 毛 Wenzhe 文哲 , CHEN 陈 Chen 晨 , WU 邬 Jiaren 佳仁 , LU 卢 Pengcheng 鹏程 , WANG 王 Tianxiong 天雄 , DONG 董 Qilong 期龙 , ZHOU 周 Yongkang 永康 , DENG 邓 Peng 鹏 , WANG 汪 Xingkang 兴康 , BAI 柏 Zeqi 泽琪 , HUANG 黄 Yuhua 玉华 , WEI 卫 Zian 子安 , WANG 汪 Hai 海 , WEN 温 Xiaohui 晓辉 , ZHOU 周 Haiyang 海洋 , ZHOU 周 Chu 楚 , LIU 刘 Ahdi 阿娣 , WU 吴 Zhengwei 征威 , XIE 谢 Jinlin 锦林 , LI 李 Hong 弘 , XIAO 肖 Chijin 持进 , DING 丁 Weixing 卫星 , CHEN 陈 Wei 伟 , ZHONG 钟 Wulyu 武律 , DUAN 段 Xuru 旭如 , LIU 刘 Wandong 万东 , ZHUANG 庄 Ge 革
Published: December 2024

A 100-channel double-foil soft X-ray array imaging (DSXAI) diagnostic system has been developed for the HL-2A tokamak to obtain tomographic bremsstrahlung emissivity and electron temperature (T
e). This system employs a double-foil technique to determine T
e by comparing the soft X-ray (SXR) emissivities from the same plasma location through two beryllium (Be) foils of differing thickness. The DSXAI system comprises five photocameras mounted at two different poloidal cross-sections, separated toroidally by 15°, allowing for three distinct poloidal viewing angles. Each photocamera features 20 channels, offering a temporal resolution of approximately 4 μs and a spatial resolution of about 8 cm, with no channel overlap. Each photocamera contains two identical optical systems, each defined by an aperture slit and a photodiode array. The double-foil configuration is realized by placing these two optical systems, each with a different Be foil, in close proximity. Initial experimental results demonstrate that the DSXAI diagnostic system performs well, successfully reconstructing 2-dimensional (2D) tomographic SXR emissivity and T
e on the HL-2A tokamak. This study provides valuable insights for the future implementation of similar diagnostic systems on fusion reactors like ITER.
Unlocking the solar potential: elevating open circuit voltage in kesterite CZTS thin film solar cells through cutting-edge SCAPS modeling
Authors: Singh Pravin Kumar , Kulshrestha Upendra
Published: December 2024

Kesterite-based CZTS thin-film solar cells are gaining recognition as a sustainable alternative to traditional photovoltaic technologies that rely on environmentally hazardous and costly absorber materials like c-Si, CdTe, and CIGS. The United Nations Sustainable Development Goals (UNSDGs) 7 (Affordable and Clean Energy) and 13 (Climate Action) are particularly relevant to CZTS technology. However, the efficiency of CZTS solar cells is currently constrained by the relatively low open circuit voltage (Voc), which remains a primary barrier to their widespread adoption. This study uses cutting-edge SCAPS modeling to identify and address CZTS solar cell Voc constraints. The study optimizes acceptor, donor, and neutral defect states, shunt resistance, and interface states to improve device performance. Optimizing these parameters improves Voc and power conversion efficiency using rigorous numerical simulations. By optimizing defect states, the proposed MoS2/CZTS/CdS/ZnO structure achieved an improved open-circuit voltage (Voc) of up to 1.10 V and an efficiency of up to 18.61%. This work makes solar energy more accessible and inexpensive by enhancing CZTS solar cell efficiency, especially in locations where conventional photovoltaic technologies are less practical due to economic or environmental constraints.
Asymptotically stable data-driven koopman operator approximation with inputs using total extended DMD
Authors: Lortie Louis , Forbes James Richard
Published: December 2024

The Koopman operator framework can be used to identify a data-driven model of a nonlinear system. Unfortunately, when the data is corrupted by noise, the identified model can be biased. Additionally, depending on the choice of lifting functions, the identified model can be unstable, even when the underlying system is asymptotically stable. This paper presents an approach to reduce the bias in an approximate Koopman model, and simultaneously ensure asymptotic stability, when using noisy data. Additionally, the proposed data-driven modeling approach is applicable to systems with inputs, such as a known forcing function or a control input. Specifically, bias is reduced by using a total least-squares, modified to accommodate inputs in addition to lifted inputs. To enforce asymptotic stability of the approximate Koopman model, linear matrix inequality constraints are augmented to the identification problem. The performance of the proposed method is then compared to the well-known extended dynamic mode decomposition (DMD) method and to the newly introduced forward–backward extended DMD method using a simulated Duffing oscillator dataset and experimental soft robot arm dataset.
Mitigation strategies can alleviate power system vulnerability to climate change and extreme weather: a case study on the Italian grid
Authors: Di Bella Alice , Colelli Francesco Pietro
Published: December 2024

This study explores compounding impacts of climate change on power system’s load and generation, emphasising the need to integrate adaptation and mitigation strategies into investment planning. We combine existing and novel empirical evidence to model impacts on: (i) air-conditioning demand; (ii) thermal power outages; (iii) hydro-power generation shortages. Using a power dispatch and capacity expansion model, we analyse the Italian power system’s response to these climate impacts in 2030, integrating mitigation targets and optimising for cost-efficiency at an hourly resolution. We outline different meteorological scenarios to explore the impacts of both average climatic changes and the intensification of extreme weather events. We find that addressing extreme weather in power system planning will require an extra 5–8 GW of photovoltaic (PV) capacity, on top of the 50 GW of the additional solar PV capacity required by the mitigation target alone. Despite the higher initial investments, we find that the adoption of renewable technologies, especially PV, alleviates the power system’s vulnerability to climate change and extreme weather events. In fact, renewable energy sources are generally less vulnerable to the impacts of climate change, such as rising temperatures and shifting precipitation patterns, compared to thermal power and hydropower generation. Furthermore, enhancing short-term storage with lithium-ion batteries is crucial to counterbalance the reduced availability of dispatchable hydro generation.
Improving the 3D representation of plant architecture and parameterization efficiency of functional–structural tree models using terrestrial LiDAR data
Authors: Bekkers Vera , Evers Jochem , Lau Alvaro
Published: December 2024

Functional–structural plant (FSP) models are useful tools for understanding plant functioning and how plants react to their environment. Developing tree FSP models is data-intensive and measuring tree architecture using conventional measurement tools is a laborious process. Light detection and ranging (LiDAR) could be an alternative nondestructive method to obtain structural information about tree architecture. This research investigated how terrestrial LiDAR (TLS)-derived tree traits could be used in the design and parameterization of tree FSP models. A systematic literature search was performed to create an overview of tree parameters needed for FSP model development. The resulting structural parameters were compared to LiDAR literature to get an overview of the possibilities and limitations. Furthermore, a tropical tree and Scots pine FSP model were selected and parametrized with TLS-derived parameters. Quantitative structural models were used to derive the parameters and a total of 37 TLS-scanned tropical trees and 10 Scots pines were included in the analysis. Ninety papers on FSP tree models were screened and eight papers fulfilled all the selection criteria. From these papers, 50 structural parameters used for FSP model development were identified, from which 28 parameters were found to be derivable from LiDAR. The TLS-derived parameters were compared to measurements, and the accuracy was variable. It was found that branch angle could be used as model input, but internode length was unsuitable. Outputs of the FSP models with TLS-derived branch angle differed from the FSP model outcomes with default branch angle. Results showed that it is possible to use TLS for FSP model inputs, although with caution as this has implications for the model variable outputs. In the future, LiDAR could help improve efficiency in building new FSP models, increase the accuracy of existing models, add metrics for optimization, and open new possibilities to explore previously unobtainable plant traits.
The scalable variant call representation: enabling genetic analysis beyond one million genomes
Authors: Poterba Timothy , Vittal Christopher , King Daniel , Goldstein Daniel , Goldstein Jacqueline I , Schultz Patrick , Karczewski Konrad J , Seed Cotton , Neale Benjamin M
Published: December 2024

Motivation

The Variant Call Format (VCF) is widely used in genome sequencing but scales poorly. For instance, we estimate a 150 000 genome VCF would occupy 900 TiB, making it costly and complicated to produce, analyze, and store. The issue stems from VCF’s requirement to densely represent both reference-genotypes and allele-indexed arrays. These requirements lead to unnecessary data duplication and, ultimately, very large files.

Results

To address these challenges, we introduce the Scalable Variant Call Representation (SVCR). This representation reduces file sizes by ensuring they scale linearly with samples. SVCR’s linear scaling relies on two techniques, both necessary for linearity: local allele indices and reference blocks, which were first introduced by the Genomic Variant Call Format. SVCR is also lossless and mergeable, allowing for N + 1 and N + K incremental joint-calling. We present two implementations of SVCR: SVCR-VCF, which encodes SVCR in VCF format, and VDS, which uses Hail’s native format. Our experiments confirm the linear scalability of SVCR-VCF and VDS, in contrast to the super-linear growth seen with standard VCF files. We also discuss the VDS Combiner, a scalable, open-source tool for producing a VDS from GVCFs and unique features of VDS which enable rapid data analysis. SVCR, and VDS in particular, ensure the scientific community can generate, analyze, and disseminate genetics datasets with millions of samples.

Availability and implementation

https://github.com/hail-is/hail/.
Functional and comparative analysis of the FeII/2-oxoglutarate-dependent dioxygenases without using any substrate
Authors: Das Susmita , Shahnaz Nafeesa , Keerthana Carmel , Ranjan Saumya , Seenivasan Gayathri , Tuti Nikhil , Shaji Unnikrishnan P , Meur Gargi , Anindya Roy
Published: December 2024

Non-haem iron (FeII) and 2-oxoglutarate(2OG)-dependent dioxygenases catalyse various biological reactions. These enzymes couple the oxidative decarboxylation of 2OG to the hydroxylation of the substrates. While some of these enzymes are reported to have multiple substrates, the substrate remains unknown for many of the enzymes. However, in the absence of the substrate, these enzymes catalyse oxidative decarboxylation of 2OG and generate succinate. We have determined succinate level to monitor this uncoupled reaction and compared the uncoupled 2OG turnover of different FeII/2OG-dependent dioxygenases. The uncoupled succinate production was used to verify the NiII-mediated inhibition and functionality of human dioxygenase ALKBH6.
Identification of Pappa and Sall3 as Gli3 direct target genes acting downstream of cilia signaling in corticogenesis
Authors: Basu Shinjini , Mautner Lena , Whiting Kae , Hasenpusch-Theil Kerstin , Borkowska Malgorzata , Theil Thomas
Published: December 2024

The cerebral cortex is critical for advanced cognitive functions and relies on a vast network of neurons to carry out its highly intricate neural tasks. Generating cortical neurons in accurate numbers hinges on cell signaling orchestrated by primary cilia to coordinate the proliferation and differentiation of cortical stem cells. While recent research has shed light on multiple ciliary roles in corticogenesis, specific mechanisms downstream of cilia signaling remain largely unexplored. We previously showed that an excess of early-born cortical neurons in mice mutant for the ciliary gene Inpp5e was rescued by re-introducing Gli3 repressor. By comparing expression profiles between Inpp5e and Gli3 mutants, we here identified novel Gli3 target genes. This approach highlighted the transcription factor gene Sall3 and Pappalysin1 (Pappa), a metalloproteinase involved in IGF signaling, as upregulated genes in both mutants. Further examination revealed that Gli3 directly binds to Sall3 and Pappa enhancers and suppresses their activity in the dorsal telencephalon. Collectively, our analyses provide important mechanistic insights into how primary cilia govern the behavior of neural stem cells, ultimately ensuring the production of adequate numbers of neurons during corticogenesis.
Myocardial bridging resulting in an atypical acute coronary syndrome in a young athlete: a case report
Authors: Coulibaly Sophie , Genet Thibaud , Bisson Arnaud , Bernard Anne , Ivanes Fabrice
Published: December 2024

Background

Myocardial bridging (MB) is considered a frequent and benign condition. However, some patients may experience symptoms. The recent ESC guidelines on sports participation provide guidance on the management of these symptomatic patients with MB but do not provide guidance in the presence of another cardiac pathology.

Case summary

A 14-year-old-male was admitted for ongoing chest pain and palpitations. He practiced rowing at a competitive level and had an episode of exercise-induced paroxysmal atrial fibrillation (AF) a month ago. A 12-lead electrocardiogram and biomarkers orientated toward an acute coronary syndrome. Transthoracic echocardiography was normal. Cardiac magnetic resonance imaging ruled out the hypothesis of myocarditis and showed no ischemic scar. A coronary computed tomography scan showed a significant MB of the left anterior descending coronary artery. We introduced a beta-blocker and monitored the absence of inducible ischaemia with an exercise echocardiography. Our conclusion was a myocardial infarction with non-obstructive coronary arteries due to MB and adrenergic AF. Return to rowing practice including competitions was allowed under beta-blocker therapy. The 6-year follow-up showed no recurrence of AF under treatment. The patient kept on training and competing, though at a lower level.

Discussion

This atypical case demonstrates that the so-called benign MB may become malignant, in particular in conjunction with rapid non-physiologic heart rate, and that dealing with this abnormality in athletes remains difficult despite the latest guidelines. Safe return-to-play and competition remain, however, possible under medical therapy if the patient is asymptomatic and has no inducible ischaemia.
Incidental finding of MELAS in a young woman with decompensated heart failure and end stage kidney disease: a case report
Authors: Sari Novi Yanti , Sia Ching-Hui , Wong Raymond Ching Chiew , Lin Weiqin , Lim Yoke Ching
Published: December 2024

Background

Mitochondrial encephalopathy, lactic acidosis, and stroke-like episodes (MELAS) is a rare and progressive mitochondrial disorder characterized by multi-systemic involvement. This disease manifests in various clinical manifestations, with heart and kidney disorders being among the most common. Accurate diagnosis of MELAS often necessitates a range of complex investigations. Prompt and comprehensive management can significantly improve the prognosis of the disease.

Case summary

A 40-year-old female presented with elevated blood pressure (BP) associated with shortness of breath prior to dialysis. She was found to be hypertensive with a systolic BP of 190 mmHg with prominent signs of congestion. Laboratory examination showed elevated troponin and NT-proBNP. Arterial blood gas revealed severe lactic acidosis, which prompted urgent dialysis. On the latest admission, an echocardiogram showed a left ventricular ejection fraction of 50% with much thickened myocardium compared with the previous study. Linking the past history of hearing impairment, kidney disease, giddiness, and progression of myocardial thickness warranted a genetic test, which revealed the diagnosis of MELAS.

Discussion

This case involved a patient initially diagnosed with hypertensive heart disease based on asymptomatic left ventricular hypertrophy. Further deterioration led to the identification of MELAS syndrome through extensive diagnostic evaluation. This highlights the importance of considering mitochondrial diseases in unexplained cardiac symptoms, especially in younger patients, for timely and appropriate management.
Caval vein obstruction resulting in right to left shunt and desaturation post–endocardial pacing implantation in a 3-year old: a case report
Authors: Poffley Emma , Mortensen Kristian , Starling Luke , Mangat Jasveer , Marek Jan
Published: December 2024

Background

Superior caval vein obstruction is a rare complication of endocardial pacing lead implantation that can result in a right to left shunt.

Case summary

A 3-year-old child with type 2 Brugada syndrome presented with mild cyanosis post–endocardial pacing implantation due to evolutionary right superior caval vein obstruction. This obstruction resulted in a right to left shunt across a previously unrecognized patent levo-atrial cardinal vein associated with partial anomalous pulmonary venous drainage. The patient underwent endocardial pacing explantation, balloon dilation and stenting of the right superior caval vein, banding of the levo-atrial cardinal vein to left upper pulmonary vein venous channel, and implantation of an epicardial pacing system.

Discussion

Levo-atrial cardinal vein and partial anomalous pulmonary venous drainage with dual drainage can go undetected on cardiac imaging and may not ever cause symptoms (high left-to-right shunt or cyanosis). The levo-atrial cardinal vein and associated partial anomalous venous drainage with dual drainage was missed on multiple occasions and with multiple imaging modalities in our patient. Blood flow may not be detected in a small calibre or collapsed levo-atrial cardinal vein with pulmonary venous connection when the pulmonary vein remains widely patent and connected to the left atrium. Detailed comprehensive echocardiography of any child referred for cardiac intervention should include pulsed wave Doppler and colour flow mapping interrogation of the innominate vein from the suprasternal approach.
Monitoring and modulating cardiac bioelectricity: from Einthoven to end-user
Authors: De Coster Tim , Nobacht Arman , Oostendorp Thom , de Vries Antoine A F , Coronel Ruben , Pijnappels Daniël A
Published: December 2024

In 2024, we celebrate the 100th anniversary of Willem Einthoven receiving the Nobel Prize for his discovery of the mechanism of the electrocardiogram (ECG). Building on Einthoven’s legacy, electrocardiography allows the monitoring of cardiac bioelectricity through solutions to the so-called forward and inverse problems. These solutions link local cardiac electrical signals with the morphology of the ECG, offering a reversible connection between the heart’s electrical activity and its representation on the body surface. Inspired by Einthoven’s work, researchers have explored the transition from monitoring to modulation of bioelectrical activity in the heart for the development of new anti-arrhythmic strategies, e.g. via optogenetics. In this review, we demonstrate the lasting influence that Einthoven has on our understanding of cardiac electrophysiology in general, and the diagnosis and treatment of cardiac arrhythmias in particular.
Optimal experimental design for full waveform inversion using a wavenumber sampling criterion—part 1 : 2-D to methodological development
Authors: Abdellaziz Amine , Brossier Romain , Métivier Ludovic , Oudet Édouard
Published: December 2024

Due to the complexity of seismic surveys, different strategies have been investigated to optimize characteristics of the acquisition in order to fulfil various criteria, most intuitively those related to the operational and economical aspects of the survey. However the question can also be approached from an imaging perspective. Andrzej Kikjo’s seminal work on the optimal design of seismic stations for earthquake localization, dating back to the seventies, has encouraged several works related to optimal acquisition in exploration geophysics. A common choice for the optimality criterion is the conditioning of the Hessian operator. In our work, we have chosen our optimality criterion to be the regularity of the wavenumber sampling at a specified target: using the theory of diffraction tomography we can estimate the wavenumber sampling at a target point and we note that for a regularly spaced acquisition the corresponding sampling is not regular. In our target-oriented approach, we want to find the best positions of sources and receivers to improve the regularity of this sampling. We develop our work in the context of full waveform inversion, although our approach is more general. Using a simple formula for the estimation of the wavenumber points we are able to get a geometric characterization of the accessible wavenumber space that helps us define its envelope. We describe the problem as finding the geometry for which the sampling points are regular in terms of spacing inside this envelope and to that end we incorporate in our workflow the notion of centroidal Voronoi tessellation, a tool from computational geometry that links the regularity of the sampling to the uniformity of the domain tessellation. To assess the uniformity of the tessellation we utilize an energy function the minimal values of which provide regular samplings. By combining this energy function with a map that estimates the wavenumber content of an acquisition we define a new objective function that assess the quality of such acquisition with regards to our regularity criterion. We then mathematically express our problematic as a minimization problem which we solve using local optimization strategies. In this article we focus on the theoretical aspect of our method and validate it through numerical examples of varying complexities in the 2-D cases: when comparing optimized acquisitions with regular ones the results show a consistent local improvement of the quality of the inversion with the optimized geometries at the target and motivates the exploitation of the method for target-oriented applications such as seismic monitoring. The subsequent extension to 3-D and application to more realistic industrial examples will be discussed in a companion paper.
Dismantling democratic change in Asia: Modalities and weapons of choice
Authors: Shah Dian A H
Published: December 2024

The global phenomenon of democratic decay and constitutional retrogression has garnered intense scrutiny, particularly over the past five years. This article demonstrates that such patterns have also emerged in several Asian countries that have undergone democratic political change in the last twenty-five years or so. Drawing on illustrations from various jurisdictions across South Asia and Southeast Asia, it explores how political actors have assaulted and eroded democratic constitutional commitments following political change, even when—in some cases—they pledged to uphold constitutional democracy. This article thus illustrates that the dismantling of democratic change in Asia is multi-dimensional and that it reflects three main imperatives: consolidation (of political authority), dissolution (of institutional accountability), and suppression (of political competition). It also brings to light the range of actors involved and tools used in the dismantling process. Crucially, this article highlights that constitutional amendments have not been a pervasive “weapon of choice” in targeting democratic commitments; instead, anti-democrats have utilized ordinary legislation, nonjudicial interpretation, and incremental changes in political conventions. Ultimately, as this article shows both explicitly and implicitly, “variety”—in imperatives, actors, tools, and interests at stake—is a key aspect to consider in understanding, identifying, and suppressing efforts to dismantle Asia’s democratic change.
A scoring system to predict resistance to ceftolozane/tazobactam in respiratory isolates of Pseudomonas aeruginosa
Authors: Karadogan Eda , Sertcelik Ahmet , Dizman Gulcin Telli , Uzar Hanife , Hazirolan Gulsen , Cakir Banu , Metan Gokhan
Published: December 2024

Objectives

To develop a scoring system to predict resistance to ceftolozane/tazobactam in Pseudomonas aeruginosa strains isolated from respiratory specimens.

Methods

A case–control study was conducted to evaluate the risk factors associated with resistance to ceftolozane/tazobactam. Patients with P. aeruginosa were defined as cases if they had ceftolozane/tazobactam-resistant strains, whereas those with ceftolozane/tazobactam-susceptible strains were defined as test-negative controls. A predictive scoring system based on binary logistic regression coefficients was formulated to predict resistance to ceftolozane/tazobactam. The score’s performance was assessed using ROC curves and AUC. The sensitivity, specificity and predictive values of the score were determined on the basis of a cut-off point, using the Youden index.

Results

Ceftolozane/tazobactam resistance was detected in 18.4% of P. aeruginosa isolates from 473 patients. In multivariate analysis, a history of bronchoscopy [OR (95% CI) = 2.1 (1.1–4.3), P = 0.035], invasive mechanical ventilation [OR (95% CI) = 2.4 (1.2–4.5), P = 0.009], colistin/polymyxin B use [OR (95% CI) = 3.2 (1.8–5.7), P < 0.001] and fluoroquinolone use [OR (95% CI) = 2.3 (1.1–4.8), P = 0.024] in the preceding month prior to P. aeruginosa isolation were significantly associated with ceftolozane/tazobactam resistance. The AUC (95% CI) of the score was 0.734 (0.675–0.794), with a sensitivity of 69%, specificity of 71.8%, positive predictive value of 35.5% and negative predictive value of 91.1% at the cut-off point of 2, out of a range of 0–5.

Conclusions

In respiratory tract infections caused by P. aeruginosa, use of the proposed scoring system may reduce inappropriate use of ceftolozane/tazobactam in empirical treatment.
A protein corona modulates the function of mineralization-competent matrix vesicles
Authors: Cominal Juçara Gastaldi , Gobbi Sebinelli Heitor , Hayann Larwsk , Nogueira Lucas Fabrício Bahia , Cruz Marcos Antonio Eufrásio , Mello Maryanne Trafanni , da Silva Andrilli Luiz Henrique , Bolean Maytê , Ramos Ana Paula , Mebarek Saida , Bottini Massimo , Millán José Luis , Ciancaglini Pietro
Published: December 2024

Mineralizing cells release a special class of extracellular vesicles known as matrix vesicles (MV), crucial for bone mineralization. Following their release, MV anchor to the extracellular matrix (ECM), where their highly specialized enzymatic machinery facilitates the formation of seed mineral within the MV’s lumen, subsequently releasing it onto the ECM. However, how MV propagate mineral onto the collagenous ECM remains unclear. In this study, we address these questions by exploring the “protein corona” paradigm whereby nanoparticles entering a biological milieu become cloaked by a corona of soluble proteins modifying their biological functions. We isolated native MV from the growth plates of chicken embryos. After removing the protein corona from the native MV using high ionic strength buffer, we obtained shaved MV. Reconstituted MVs were produced by incubating shaved MV with the removed protein corona constituents. Our results show that both the removal and reconstitution of protein corona significantly affect the biochemical and physicochemical properties of MV, resulting in 3 well-defined groups. Shaved MV exhibited an increase in tissue nonspecific alkaline phosphatase (TNAP) activity and a decrease in mineral deposition compared to native MV. Reconstituted MV partially recovered these functions, showing a reduction of TNAP activity and mineral deposition compared to native MV. Furthermore, changes in the protein corona affect the MV ability to anchor to the collagenous ECM, which is crucial for initiating the propagation of the mineral phase within this organic matrix. Proteomic analyses revealed changes in the protein profile of the MV resulting from the removal of the protein corona, indicating that shaved proteins were primarily related to external structural and ECM organization and catabolism. These findings underscore the role of the protein corona in modulating the mineralization capabilities of MV. Understanding these interactions could lead to new therapeutic strategies for enhancing bone repair and regeneration.
The Beneficent and Maleficent Effects of Simplification on Retirement Savings
Authors: Shah Avni M , Osborne Matthew , Lefkowitz Jaclyn , Fertig Andrew , Fishbane Alissa , Soman Dilip
Published: December 2024

Considerable research suggests making information simpler is better. Simplification improves the efficiency of information extraction and lowers psychological frictions, leading to its popularity with policymakers and practitioners worldwide. However, it remains unclear when and how simplification can be utilized most effectively, or if there are contexts where simplification may produce unintended maleficent effects. Using two large-scale field experiments (N = 126,673), we test whether simplifying account statements helps encourage retirement savings in Mexico. We partner with two retirement firms, one ranked high in rate of returns and the other ranked lower. We find that simplifying retirement account statements improves contribution rates for consumers in the high-ranking firm but reduces contribution rates for consumers in the low-ranking firm. Five follow-up experiments provide evidence consistent with a fluency amplification account. Simplifying information improves processing fluency making it easier to accurately recall firm rank relative to the control, which amplifies behavior bidirectionally: High-ranking (low-ranking) firm consumers more accurately recall their firm’s rank, subsequently increasing (decreasing) contributions. However, if simplification is harnessed in ways that improve processing fluency and lower perceived switching costs, then simplification can improve retirement savings for everyone either by boosting contributions or encouraging people to switch to higher performing alternatives.
Virtual museum ‘Traditional Dress of Liangshan Yi Nationality’: analysis of user experience in cultural heritage interaction
Authors: Zhang Yan , Zhang Xueyuan
Published: December 2024

Virtual museums (VMs) of cultural heritage provide new opportunities for the preservation, promotion, and accessibility of traditional cultural practices. The aim of this study is to identify and compare the user experience of different user groups of the ‘Traditional Dress of Liangshan Yi Nationality’ VM and to identify aspects that require improvement. The study sample comprised three groups: clothing design specialists (n = 92), cultural heritage experts (n = 93), and general users interested in cultural heritage (n = 92). Quantitative data collection was conducted through questionnaire surveys using a user experience scale, followed by intergroup pairwise comparison using independent t-tests. The research revealed significant differences in user experience among different groups. The research findings lay the groundwork for refining the content, interface, and functionality of the VM considering the interests and preferences of users. VM developers can gain clearer insights into the various demands of different user groups. Researchers and educational institutions can utilize the results within academic studies on VM interaction and the influence of cultural content on different demographics. The research outcomes also hold value for organizations involved in promoting and preserving cultural heritage, in terms of aligning with audience expectations and increasing interest in traditional clothing.
Complex investigations of an active star formation region in the southern part of Mon R2
Authors: Movsessian T A , Bally J , Magakian T Yu , Moiseev A V
Published: December 2024

We continue to present the results of a Byurakan Narrow Band Imaging Survey (BNBIS). In this work, we present the results of the search and further detailed investigation of the objects, found in the course of the BNBIS survey in the southern part of the Mon R2 (Monoceros R2) association. For the search of Herbig–Haro (HH) objects, the narrow-band images, obtained with the 1 m Schmidt telescope of the Byurakan Observatory, were used. Newly found objects were imaged in optical and near-infrared (IR) range with the Apache Point Observatory 3.5 m telescope, and observed spectrally with a long-slit spectrograph and scanning Fabry–Perot interferometer on a 6 m telescope of Special Astrophysical Observatory of the Russian Academy of Sciences using SCORPIO-2 (Spectral Camera with Optical Reducer for Photometrical and Interferometrical Observations – 2). We found three new HH groups: HH 1233, HH 1234, and HH 1235, two of them represent extended collimated flows. HH 1233 is the C-shape bipolar outflow system associated with the 2MASS 06084223−0657385 source star. HH 1234 is the helical chain of HH knots near the star V963 Mon. HH 1235 is a separate compact knot, connected with the visible only in mid- and far-IR source WISE J060856.57−070103.5. We also found several molecular hydrogen outflows, one of which coincides with HH 1233 and two other are associated with the deeply embedded IR sources in the same field. One more probable bipolar H2 outflow is related to WISE J060856.57−070103.5. The emission spectra and spectral energy distributions of the source stars were analysed. According to them they should be under a rather early evolutional stage.
Representation learning for time-domain high-energy astrophysics: Discovery of extragalactic fast X-ray transient XRT 200515
Authors: Dillmann Steven , Martínez-Galarza Juan Rafael , Soria Roberto , Stefano Rosanne Di , Kashyap Vinay L
Published: December 2024

We present a novel representation learning method for downstream tasks like anomaly detection, unsupervised classification, and similarity searches in high-energy data sets. This enabled the discovery of a new extragalactic fast X-ray transient (FXT) in Chandra archival data, XRT 200515, a needle-in-the-haystack event and the first Chandra FXT of its kind. Recent serendipitous discoveries in X-ray astronomy, including FXTs from binary neutron star mergers and an extragalactic planetary transit candidate, highlight the need for systematic transient searches in X-ray archives. We introduce new event file representations, $E-t$ maps and $E-t-\mathrm{d}t$ cubes, that effectively encode both temporal and spectral information, enabling the seamless application of machine learning to variable-length event file time series. Our unsupervised learning approach employs PCA or sparse autoencoders to extract low-dimensional, informative features from these data representations, followed by clustering in the embedding space with DBSCAN. New transients are identified within transient-dominant clusters or through nearest-neighbour searches around known transients, producing a catalogue of 3559 candidates (3447 flares and 112 dips). XRT 200515 exhibits unique temporal and spectral variability, including an intense, hard <10 s initial burst, followed by spectral softening in an $\sim$800 s oscillating tail. We interpret XRT 200515 as either the first giant magnetar flare observed at low X-ray energies or the first extragalactic Type I X-ray burst from a faint, previously unknown low-mass X-ray binary in the LMC. Our method extends to data sets from other observatories such as XMM–Newton, Swift-XRT, eROSITA, Einstein Probe, and upcoming missions like AXIS.