bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Polymer additive-promoted porous PbBr2 layer for fabricating high-performance carbon-based CsPbIBr2 perovskite solar cells through a two-step sequential deposition process
Authors: Wang Guiqiang , Chang Jiarun , Wang Dongsheng , Bi Jiayu , Meng Fanning
Published: July 2024

A PEG-assisted two-step sequential deposition process considerably enhances the CsPbIBr2 perovskite quality and promotes the photovoltaic performance of CsPbIBr2 PSCs.
Extension of the D3 and D4 London dispersion corrections to the full actinides series
Authors: Wittmann Lukas , Gordiy Igor , Friede Marvin , Helmich-Paris Benjamin , Grimme Stefan , Hansen Andreas , Bursch Markus
Published: July 2024

Extension of the DFT-D3 and -D4 London dispersion corrections to francium, radium, and the full actinides series, with minimal modifications to the existing parameterization strategy.
Salicylaldehyde-derived piperazine-functionalized hydrazone ligand-based Pt(ii) complexes: inhibition of EZH2-dependent tumorigenesis in pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma, synergism with PARP inhibitors and enhanced apoptosis
Authors: Lv Zhimin , Ali Amjad , Zou Cheng , Wang Zerui , Ma Minglu , Cheng Na , Shad Man , Hao Huifang , Zhang Yongmin , Rahman Faiz-Ur
Published: July 2024

Methyl piperazine functionalized Pt(ii) complexes with general formula L-PtCl were prepared, structurally characterized and studied for their in vitro mechanistic anticancer effect in pancreatic ductal adenocarcinoma cells.
Selective separation of dye/salt mixtures via a tannic acid-polyethyleneimine-modified hollow fiber membrane with high flux
Authors: Wang Chuanfeng , Chen Qian , Yang Jiapeng , Ge Lina
Published: July 2024

In this study, a loose nanofiltration (NF) membrane with excellent perm-selectivity was fabricated via co-depositing tannic acid (TA) and polyethyleneimine (PEI) on a PVDF hollow fiber substrate.
Treatment of 2,4,6-tribromophenol-contaminated water using iron ion/calcium sulfite: the dual role of oxidation and coagulation
Authors: Bai Fan , Liu Ye , Cheng Yujie , Guo Yingqing , Chen Zhenbin , Cao Lisan , Wang Zongping , Xie Pengchao
Published: July 2024

TBP can be oxidized in the Fe(iii)/CaSO3 system, and the in situ formed iron species and CaSO4 act as coagulant nuclei, benefiting the coagulation process.
Crystal structure validation of verinurad via proton-detected ultra-fast MAS NMR and machine learning
Authors: Torodii Daria , Holmes Jacob B. , Moutzouri Pinelopi , Nilsson Lill Sten O. , Cordova Manuel , Pinon Arthur C. , Grohe Kristof , Wegner Sebastian , Putra Okky Dwichandra , Norberg Stefan , Welinder Anette , Schantz Staffan , Emsley Lyndon
Published: July 2024

The structure of an active pharmaceutical ingredient (API) is validated using solely ultra-fast 1H-detected experiments and machine learning without the need for dynamic nuclear polarization.
Atomic-level structure of the amorphous drug atuliflapon via NMR crystallography
Authors: Holmes Jacob B. , Torodii Daria , Balodis Martins , Cordova Manuel , Hofstetter Albert , Paruzzo Federico , Nilsson Lill Sten O. , Eriksson Emma , Berruyer Pierrick , Simões de Almeida Bruno , Quayle Mike , Norberg Stefan , Ankarberg Anna Svensk , Schantz Staffan , Emsley Lyndon
Published: July 2024

We determine the complete atomic-level structure of the amorphous form of the drug atuliflapon, a 5-lipooxygenase activating protein (FLAP) inhibitor, via chemical-shift-driven NMR crystallography.
Efficient hydrodeoxygenation of lignin-derived phenolic compounds under acid-free conditions over carbon-supported NiMo catalysts
Authors: Jiang Shan , Shu Riyang , Wang Anqi , Deng Zhuoli , Xiao Yuhong , Li Jiajin , Meng Qingwei , Zhang Qian
Published: July 2024

This work proposes a novel acid-free NixMoyN/C catalyst for the hydrodeoxygenation of lignin-derived phenolic compounds with high reaction efficiency and stability.
Development of medical masks: performance, properties, and prospects
Authors: Memon Hafeezullah , Liao Siyi , Maryam Rabia , Patrucco Alessia , Riccardi Claudia
Published: July 2024

We have highlighted the enduring significance and evolving demands of masks, focusing on their filtration and antibacterial properties and emphasizing future innovations for enhanced comfort and functionality.
The impact of different flexible substrates on the photothermal reduction quality of graphene oxide
Authors: Bonando Matheus Guitti , Mór Moreira Gabriel Monte , Moraes Fernandes Nathália Maria , Steinberg David , Cadore Alisson Ronieri , de Carvalho Castro Silva Cecília , Miyazato Saito Lúcia Akemi
Published: July 2024

This work shows the lowest reported sheet resistances obtained by laser-reduced graphene oxide in ambient conditions for nylon and cellulose acetate substrates (51 ± 2 and 58 ± 3 Ω sq−1) by optimizing the photothermal reduction of graphene oxide.
The calcination temperature effect on CeO2 catalytic activity for soot oxidation: a combined experimental and theoretical approach
Authors: Hu Chao , Song Yan , Li Jie , Liu Zinuo , Chen Zhenzhen , Ying Yaru , Wang Hao , He Jing
Published: July 2024

The catalytic efficiency of CeO2 in soot oxidation was significantly affected by its grain morphology and calcination temperature.
Na2CO3-promoted synthesis of thiocarbamates from isocyanates and thiols under mild conditions
Authors: Gong Yingbin , Yan Leilei , Guo Zhiqiang
Published: July 2024

A method for the synthesis of thiocarbamates catalyzed by Na2CO3 from isocyanates and thiols was developed, and the possible mechanism was proposed. This method has the advantages of high yield, good tolerance, high atom economy and mild conditions.
Post-synthetic modification of bis-iron(iii)-μ-oxo-porphyrin prisms to enhance oxygen reduction electrocatalysis
Authors: Zhang Daoyang , Rosch Lauren E. , Crawley Matthew R. , Cook Timothy R.
Published: July 2024

Bis-iron(iii)-μ-oxo-porphyrin prisms may be tuned via post-synthetic tethering. Tethered prisms show enhanced selectivity for the Oxygen Reduction Reaction (ORR) and maintain a cofacial geometry under homogeneous ORR conditions.
Ti3C2Tx MXene induces strong electronic metal–support interaction with Ni nanoparticles for hydrogen evolution reaction with Pt-like activity
Authors: Han Yixuan , Yang Xiaodan , Zhao Yidan , Zhao Mingyang , Sun Hongming , Chen Jing , Sun Jianchao , Chen Xiang , Li Cheng-Peng
Published: July 2024

A new-style Ti3C2Tx supported Ni nanoparticle hybrid was developed as a HER electrocatalyst under alkaline conditions with Pt-like catalytic activity.
Robust leishmanicidal upshot of some new diphenyl triazine-based molecules
Authors: Singh Anju , Beg Mirza Adil , Jamal Samra , Khan Arif , Rahman Abdur , Selvapandiyan Angamuthu , Shafi Syed , Hoda Nasimul
Published: July 2024

We report the synthesis of fifteen novel diphenyl triazine and diphenyl triazine pyrimidine derivatives and their antileishmanial properties. against Leishmania donovani.
Improving the interfacial stability of ultrahigh-nickel cathodes with PEO-based electrolytes by targeted chemical reactions
Authors: Dai Yuqing , Hou Zihan , Luo Gui , Deng Duo , Peng Wenjie , Wang Zhixing , Guo Huajun , Li Xinhai , Yan Guochun , Duan Hui , Zhang Wenchao , Wang Jiexi
Published: July 2024

A PEO-based solid-state lithium metal battery is achieved using an xLi2O-B2O3 coating layer with different crystal structures. Besides, a three-electrode cell is fabricated to confirm that the ultrahigh-nickel cathode/PEO interface is stabilized.
Selective lithium extraction from brine via chemical reduction of iron phosphate with aqueous iron compounds
Authors: Wang Jing , Hawkins Alex W. , Saasi Amin T. , Morin Caroline G. , Geise Geoffrey M. , Koenig Gary M.
Published: July 2024

Lithium production has increased with surges in demand. Iron based redox mediators were developed to extract Li+ from brine, showing promise using brines with low amounts of lithium and high concentrations of competing ions.
Modelling and optimisation of the surface‐mounted permanent magnet machine with multi‐level array magnets
Authors: Li Longxuan , Chen Zhaoliang , Zhao Wenliang , Diao Chengwu , Kwon Byung‐il
Published: July 2024

An analytical and optimisation method is presented to improve the air‐gap magnetic field of the surface‐mounted permanent magnet machine with multi‐level array magnets, which can reduce air‐gap magnetic field harmonics and torque ripple. Different from the conventional analytical method (AM) around the entire single‐magnet pole, the modelling method of multi‐level equal‐thickness ferrite magnets with different remanences for improving the air‐gap flux density is investigated. Considering the influence of air‐gap relative permeability by stator slots and multi‐level magnet remanences on the air‐gap flux density, the proposed AM for improving air‐gap flux density is derived by analysing the slotless air‐gap flux density and slotted air‐gap relative permeability. The cogging torque is predicted with energy method by analysing the tangential magnetic field distribution at stator slots. Then, the back electromotive force is predicted by analysing the winding distribution and radial air‐gap flux density. Based on the proposed AM, the simulated annealing particle swarm optimisation algorithm is used by optimising the widths and thicknesses of the multi‐level array magnets to further reduce torque ripple and increase output torque. Finally, the accuracy of the proposed AM is verified by comparing with the finite element method.
Split‐source inverter with adaptive control scheme‐based shunt active power filter for power quality improvement
Authors: Barik Prasanta Kumar , Samal Sarita , Gupta Deepak Kumar , Appasani Bhargav , Jha Amitkumar V. , Islam Md. Minarul , Ustun Taha Selim
Published: July 2024

Although single‐stage inverters are popular for simpler design they face difficulties in shoot‐through mode operation. Insufficient DC voltage regulation and complicated LC network are principal drawbacks of these topologies. A new split source inverter (SSI) can solve problems with single‐stage inverters. In this paper, SSI replaced the voltage source inverter (VSI) of a shunt active power filter (SAPF) which alleviates power quality (PQ) issues in power system. Furthermore, a VSI‐based SAPF faces challenges to maintain consistent voltage across DC‐link capacitor, exactly compensating current generation, and switching loss reduction in inverter. This study examined efficacy of two inverter‐based SAPFs considering a modified synchronous reference frame approach for generating reference current; fuzzy logic controller for regulating DC‐link voltage; and adaptive fuzzy hysteresis current controller for generating switching pulses. Ideal and non‐ideal sources were considered when running the simulations for various load circumstances. The proposed SSI‐based SAPF with an advanced control approach can eradicate source current harmonics to 0.52% and 0.45% under ideal source conditions, and 0.65% and 0.54% under non‐ideal source conditions for non‐linear loads. Similarly, the ripples in the DC‐link voltage are also reduced to 2–3 V for the ideal case and 4–5 V for non‐ideal case.
Thermal degradation kinetic and thermodynamic investigation of two types cold-pressed vegetable oils
Authors: Gandova Vanya
Published: July 2024

At long term storage the vegetable oils change their compound after oxidative and other processes. For this reason, the change of absorbance was measured and found that with increasing the time the absorbance decreases. Change of absorbance connected with oxygenate changing. Absorbance was measured at four temperatures 6, 25, 50 and 80°C during 55 days. The thermodynamic and kinetic parameters were obtained in temperature range. Based on these results the cold-pressed unrefined sunflower oil presented more stability compared with linseed oil.
Effect of lemon balm (Melissa officinalis L.) essential oil on some characteristics of oil/water food emulsions
Authors: Gandova Vanya , Iliev Ivan , Stoyanova Albena
Published: July 2024

Food emulsions are used on a daily basis by people, therefore it is of great importance to study the factors that can influence their stability. The aim of this work is to track the influence of lemon balm essential oil (Melissa officinalis L.) on the change of some physical and chemical indicators, kinetic (turbidity) and thermodynamic (Gibbs free energy, enthalpy and entropy) parameters, which are related to their stability. 24 food emulsions were developed with oleic type sunflower oil acting as an oil phase in concentrations of 20 and 30%, soybean protein emulsifier in concentrations of 1, 2, and 3% and lemon balm essential oil in concentrations of 0.1, 0.2 and 0.3%. The pH of the emulsions was determined, microscopic photographs were taken to measure the sizes of the colloidal particles, turbidity was observed for 15 days, their absorbance was determined, Gibbs energy, enthalpy and entropy were calculated. The most stable is the emulsion with 30% oil phase, 3% soybean protein emulsifier and 0.3% lemon balm essential oil.
Soil peroxidase and polyphenoloxidase activity under soil conservation practices on sloping terrains
Authors: Kuncheva Gergana , Ivanova Iliana , Gynchev Galin
Published: July 2024

Soil water erosion in Bulgaria has a significant negative impact on the arable inclined lands. Two experiments were conducted with wheat and maize with application of traditional and soil protection technologies, on Calcic Chernozem soil, on the slope of 5°. Calcic Chernozems are soils exposed to frequent water erosion processes due to significant structural deficiency and low aggregate stability. The first survey was carried out in the period 2018-2020, and in addition to conventional technologies, surface and vertical mulching (with manure as mulching material) were also tested. The second was carried out in 2020-2023 and included minimal treatments for growing wheat and maize and the inclusion of cover crop (barley) in the crop rotation. An increase in the amount of soil organic carbon was found, as well as an increase of the soil peroxidase and polyphenoloxidase activity. The ratio between two enzymes, is considered as humification factor, is higher in the variants under soil protection technologies. The application of soil conservation treatments such as surface mulching with manure, minimum tillage with vertical manure mulching, as well as minimum tillage combined with cover crop in a wheat-maize rotation on sloping farmlands lead to an improvement of soil organic carbon as well as an increase of soil polyphenoloxidase activity.
Production of biodiesel from low-quality vegetable oils with a high content of free fatty acids by alkaline transesterification
Authors: Kopchev Vasil
Published: July 2024

The extraction of natural fats as well as the production of derived products based on them are renewable processes that play a major role in the modern energy industry. An example in this regard is the so-called biodiesel fuel which is Fatty Acid Methyl Esters (FAME), the production of which in recent years has reached enormous scales. Its main advantage is that it is an ecological product (methyl ester of higher fatty acids), which before and after use does not pollute the environment. Quality biodiesel fuel, in turn, is obtained from quality raw materials, which invariably limits its production. On the other hand, every year as a result of improper storage or processing, as well as obtained as waste products huge amounts of low-quality oils remain unutilized and they in turn, represent a valuable raw material and source of energy after their conversion into biodiesel fuel. The present work investigates the possibility of obtaining methyl esters of fatty acids (biodiesel) from low-quality (bad-quality) vegetable oils with high acid values by transesterification with an alkaline catalyst, which includes the selection of suitable catalysts and conditions for the optimal course of the process.
Fast algorithm for obtaining mathematical relations for optimizing the operating mode of an electric power system
Authors: Dolbin Kirill Sergeevich
Published: July 2024

The article proposes a method for composing mathematicalexpressions by which it is possible to reduce the time for determining theparameters of flexible alternating current transmission system devices inthe operating mode of the electric power system. The problem of quasistationarityof the steady-state regime is considered, taking into account therapidity of its change. Criteria for the optimality of the regime are also putforward. The problem of optimizing the power system mode is solved byrecording various sets of target functions. The article provides in detail analgorithm for obtaining objective functions based on the theory ofsensitivity of electrical circuits. A method is also proposed for determiningthe success of choosing functional relationships and the optimal location ofdevices.
Water and carbon footprints for Vidraru hydropower development, Romania
Authors: Dumitran Gabriela-Elena , Vuta Liana-Ioana , Neagoe Angela , Tica Eliza-Isabela , Popa Bogdan , Stoyanov Ivaylo
Published: July 2024

Although the important positive effects that lakes have ondevelopment at the regional level and beyond, they also have a negativeimpact related to the large amounts of water that they can consume byevaporation. This paper quantifies the effects that one of the largestartificial lakes in Romania (with complex use) has on the environment byestimating the blue water footprint and the carbon footprint. Thus, ananalysis is made of the evolution of the blue water footprint and carbonintensity (calculated for a 100-year life cycle) for 16 years and Pearsoncorrelation coefficients for these indicators are investigated. During the2008-2023 study period, the mean water footprint for the Vidraruhydropower plant was 5.07 m3/GJ and the carbon intensity varies between7.1 to 5.24 gCO2/kWh, with a polynomial trend. Those results are in goodagreement compared with the literature presenting results related to largereservoirs.
Analysis of the financial implications of solar panels and battery storage integration in the port infrastructure of Heraklion
Authors: Karapidakis Emmanuel , Paspatis Alexandros , Grammatikakis Ioannis , Nikologiannis Marios , Seimenis Minas , Papadakis Minas
Published: July 2024

The European Union (EU) aims to significantly reduce greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions by 2050, necessitating an extensive energy transition across numerous industries and economic sectors. Urban ports are a key sector affected by this transition. As ports increasingly adopt electric-powered infrastructure (such as cold ironing, reefers, stackers, and cranes), their reliance on the electrical grid grows, potentially leading to higher operational costs. This creates a challenge of achieving the required transition in a cost-effective manner. This paper addresses this issue by proposing a photovoltaic (PV) and battery installation to meet electricity demands, focusing on determining the optimal system size, cost, and expected earnings. The study utilizes electricity consumption data from the port of Heraklion for 2021 and solar data from a nearby photovoltaic park in Heraklion, Crete. The methodology's results include determining the appropriate PV capacity and battery storage, with an estimated annual profit of €165,818.44.
Design and simulation of bidirectional DC-DC converter topology for battery applications
Authors: Kurtoğlu Mehmet , Eroğlu Fatih
Published: July 2024

Recently, energy storage has become a significant topic for renewable energy based power system applications. Batteries are one of the most popular energy storage devices adopted by renewable energy sources, electrical vehicles and grid connected systems. In this context, the bidirectional DC-DC converter (BDC) enables bidirectional power flow by controlling the charging and discharging stage of the battery in battery applications. Accordingly, the battery current is regulated through the duty cycle of the BDC considering the state of charge of the battery and current direction. In this study, a non-isolated BDC, has a buck and boost principle of operation, is designed, analysed and simulated under various case studies. In the designed system, BDC controls the bidirectional power flow between the battery and DC link. Specifically, in the charging stage of battery operating in buck mode, DC-link supplies the power to the battery and BDC regulates the battery current using proportional-integral (PI) controller. On the other hand, in the discharging stage of the battery operating in boost mode, when DC source is disconnected, the battery supplies the power to DC load and DC-link voltage is controlled by the BDC via PI controller. The simulation results are presented to show the operation and control of the BDC under different scenarios.
La chirurgie intracrânienne dans le traitement des convulsions
chez le chien et le chat
Authors: Moissonnier Pierre
Published: July 2024

La chirurgie fait à présent partie intégrante de la prise en charge des animaux atteints d’affections intracrâniennes engendrant des convulsions.

Cet article en dresse une liste synthétique, décrit le principe des interventions et chiffre surtout le pronostic après chirurgie afin de donner au praticien les éléments pour guider au mieux son client vers la thérapeutique la plus appropriée pour son animal.
Suivi radiologique de la cicatrisation osseuse
et des troubles de la cicatrisation
Authors: Jossier Renaud , Zoccarato Sophie , Haudiquet Philippe
Published: July 2024

La cicatrisation osseuse est le processus physiologique qui permet le rétablissement de l’os normal après fracture. Ce processus peut être suivi par radiographie, suit des étapes précises et nécessite l’intervention de multiples facteurs de l’inflammation.

Pour que la cicatrisation se passe normalement, le foyer de fracture doit bénéficier d’apport sanguin, doit être stable ; des pressions doivent s’y exercer et être libre de toute infection.
En l’absence de conditions optimales, un retard de cicatrisation, voire une absence de cicatrisation est possible.

La radiographie est encore ici l’examen à privilégier pour diagnostiquer et suivre les troubles de la cicatrisation.
L’arthroscopie en chirurgie vétérinaire
Authors: Fournet Alexandre
Published: July 2024

L’arthroscopie est une technique mini-invasive permettant l’exploration des structures intra articulaires (capsule articulaire, cartilage et ligaments/tendons) par l’intermédiaire d’un endoscope introduit au sein de l’articulation au travers d’une petite incision. Cette technique, nécessitant toutefois une anesthésie générale, permet d’aider le clinicien au diagnostic d’une affection articulaire non élucidée via les examens cliniques, biologiques et d’imagerie communément disponibles et permet, dans certains cas, le traitement de l’affection articulaire sous-jacente.

Chez l’animal de compagnie, l’arthroscopie a été décrite pour toutes les articulations des membres appendiculaires ; le genou, l’épaule et le coude restent, cependant, les trois articulations les plus examinées.

Le matériel nécessaire à la réalisation de cet examen est onéreux et fragile, et est composé de nombreux éléments indispensables pour le bon déroulement de la procédure.

Bien que la technique chirurgicale soit identique d’une articulation à une autre, la maitrise de la procédure nécessite un entraînement continu par le manipulateur.
Les cytoponctions et les biopsies échoguidées chez le chien et le chat
Authors: Pastor Anne , Brune Julien
Published: July 2024

Dans de nombreux cas, l’échographie seule permet d’établir un diagnostic. Cependant, cet examen ne permet pas toujours au clinicien de différencier certaines lésions.

Il est alors utile de se servir de l’échographie pour guider des actes de biopsie ou de cytoponction. En effet, ces examens sont des outils de diagnostic rapides, peu invasifs et relativement simples à mettre en œuvre en pratique courante.

Cet article décrit les procédures techniques utilisées chez le chien et le chat pour la réalisation de ces actes selon le type de lésion, l’organe et l’affection suspectée.

Les contre-indications, les précautions à prendre, les complications possibles, ainsi que les différentes sensibilités rapportées, sont également synthétisées en fonction des organes prélevés.
Survey Results Concerning Current Trends in Meniscus Repair Indications and Preferences from Members of the Pediatric Research in Sports Medicine (PRiSM) Society
Authors: Pace J Lee , Schlechter John A. , Haus Brian , Huang Rong ,   PRiSM Meniscus RIG
Published: July 2024

Meniscus repair has increased in frequency, especially among surgeons who focus on youth sports injuries. The aim of this study was to determine current trends in meniscus repair among a specific subset of meniscus repair surgeons. A cross-sectional survey utilizing several clinical vignettes was administered to orthopaedic surgeon members of the Pediatric Research in Sports Medicine (PRiSM) Society to investigate surgeon experience and training, number of meniscus repair procedures performed, and surgical and rehabilitation preferences. A statistical analysis of the responses was performed to determine associations between years in practice or type of fellowship training and the number of meniscus repair procedures performed, surgical indications, and rehabilitation preferences. The response rate to various questions ranged from 61.5 (59/96) to 63.5% (61/96). In all vignettes, a majority favored repair as well as some degree of weight-bearing and range-of-motion restrictions. Surgeons who had been in practice for 6 to 10 years performed significantly more meniscus repairs per year than those who had been in practice for greater than 20 years (p = 0.009) and those who had been in practice for 0 to 5 years (p = 0.05). Surgeons who had been in practice for greater than 20 years performed a significantly higher percentage of meniscectomies relative to meniscus repairs, compared with those in practice for 0 to 5 years (p = 0.002) or 6 to 10 years (p = 0.0003). When surgeons were grouped into those with less than 10 years of experience and those with greater than 10 years of experience, the former group performed a significantly higher number of meniscus repairs relative to meniscectomies than the latter group of surgeons (p < 0.0001). Less experienced surgeons are more likely to perform meniscus repair than meniscectomy, but all surgeons surveyed had a general preference for repair in all clinical vignettes. Repair technique preferences as well as rehabilitation protocols varied widely among surgeons.
Management of Unresectable Cholangiocarcinoma Using Modern Radiation Therapy Techniques
Authors: Demircioglu Deniz , Moreno Lou-Anne Acevedo , Hall William A.
Published: July 2024

Cholangiocarcinoma (CCA) is a malignancy of epithelial cells in the bile duct, categorized based on its anatomical location as intrahepatic, perihilar, or extrahepatic. It has a low prevalence of ∼1.6 cases per 100,000 people in the United States, but has a poor prognosis. All stages included, CCA has a 5-year survival rate of less than 10%. The preferred curative treatment for intrahepatic, perihilar, and extrahepatic CCA is surgical resection combined with systemic chemotherapy. However, resection is not always a viable option for many patients, as the disease is often discovered at the time of diagnosis to be either metastatic or locally advanced precluding surgical resection. In this setting, a variety of options can be used, one of which is radiation therapy (RT). The administration of RT has evolved tremendously over the past decades. Total doses given can be limited by a tumor's proximity to regional normal organs such as the liver, stomach, bile duct, and small and large bowel. When a CCA is unresectable, it is often in close proximity to radiosensitive organs. Delivering RT in this setting therefore requires precise delivery techniques. An emerging technique known broadly as stereotactic body radiation therapy (SBRT) or stereotactic ablative body radiation therapy gives a highly focused, often ablative, form of RT to a defined and specific target. Categorically, SBRT offers a quick and efficient management option, in some cases only one to three total treatments. This narrative reviews various applications of SBRT for cholangiocarcinoma including SBRT alone, SBRT with chemotherapy, SBRT with chemotherapy followed by a liver transplantation (orthotopic liver transplantation), and finally novel combinations of SBRT with immunotherapy.
Advancing criminal justice through mediation: analyzing the integration of mediation in Emirati criminal legislation
Authors: Alnuaimi Ahmed Ali , Alkrisheh Mohammad Amin
Published: July 2024

Criminal mediation is viewed as a promising alternative to traditional judicial procedures for resolving criminal disputes, offering a novel approach to alleviating burdens on the judicial system. This study examines the integration of mediation into Emirati criminal legislation, focusing on its potential to improve dispute resolution outcomes and reduce judicial workload. The UAE law has incorporated criminal mediation in the new amendment to the criminal procedures law by Federal Decree-Law No. 38 of 2022. This research aims to elucidate the provisions of criminal mediation and how it is organized within the UAE legal system. Employing an analytical descriptive methodology, the study explores the legal frameworks and procedural nuances of criminal mediation. It demonstrates how it can significantly mitigate the adverse effects on affected parties and decrease the recurrence of criminal behavior. The study recommends establishing a specialized training program for legal mediators, designed to equip them with the necessary skills to effectively handle diverse criminal cases, ensuring that mediation processes are conducted with the highest standards of justice and efficiency. Implementing such training programs would enhance the professionalism of criminal mediation and increase its success rates, contributing to a more effective and humane criminal justice system.
Object alignment in spatially multiplexed holograms applied to polarization sensing
Authors: Krajinić Filip , Atanasijević Petar , Mihailović Peđa
Published: July 2024

The paper presents a new algorithm for object alignment in digital holography with multiple spherical reference waves. The algorithm was applied to polarization sensing with two orthogonally polarized reference waves. A novel holographic setup was built using a diffraction grating to generate two symmetric reference waves, keeping the setup simple and highly adjustable. The angles of rotation of the polarizing elements were calculated with mean absolute errors of 0.71° and 2.96° based on intensity and phase measurements, respectively. The same algorithm can be applied to any digital holographic measurement with multiple spherical reference waves.
Scale translation yields insights into gas adsorption under nanoconfinement
Authors: Liu Lingfu , Frouté Laura , Kovscek Anthony R. , Aryana Saman A.
Published: July 2024

This work describes a scale-translating simulation framework to investigate gas adsorption behavior in nanoconfined pores. The framework combines molecular simulations (MSs), equation of state (EoS), and lattice Boltzmann (LB) simulations. MSs reveal the physics of methane adsorption in nano-sized pores, where input values of fugacity coefficients are optimized based on EoS predictions. Then, an LB free-energy model, which incorporates a viral EoS, upscales intermolecular forces and estimates adsorption behavior via a proposed fluid–wall interaction model. Armed with the values of the LB interaction parameter as a function of pressure, the LB model is used to predict fluid behavior in irregular nanopores, and the results are validated against reference MS data. The LB model is then used to study adsorption behavior at a continuum scale in representative organic shale nanopores based on finely characterized Vaca Muerta shale samples. The results show that methane adsorption could significantly increase contained fluids by 10%–25% in pores smaller than 20 nm. However, in larger pores (40 nm to 90 nm), adsorption's impact diminishes to 2%–3%, suggesting sorption's negligible role beyond a 40 nm pore size.
Abnormal endothermic liquid–liquid phase transition upon cooling Pd40Ni40P20 melts
Authors: Yu Pengfei , Han Xiujun , Xia Mingxu , Zhou Huanyi , Cao Saichao , Zhao Yimeng , Zeng Long , Li Jianguo
Published: July 2024

Liquid–liquid phase transition (LLPT) is the transformation of a liquid from one distinctive structure to another with the same composition. However, the origin of the structural variation at LLPT is still controversial. Here, we used ab initio molecular dynamics simulation to verify and investigate a high-temperature LLPT in a Pd40Ni40P20 melt; this melt showed a reduction in the nuclei interference of the conventional low-temperature LLPT. An abnormal endothermic LLPT was confirmed with flash differential scanning calorimetry, indicating a change in the atomic short-range-order structure around the P–P bond and a decrease in the number of specific icosahedral-like clusters, such as ⟨0 2 8 0⟩ and ⟨0 2 8 1⟩. The structural change of the P-centered clusters changed the solidification path through potential energy adjustments. Our results showed the structural mechanism of the unusual endothermic phenomenon and provided a different insight into regulating the properties of metallic glasses.
Fabrication of pristine 2D heterostructures for scanning probe microscopy
Authors: McKenzie James , Sharma Nileema , Liu Xiaolong
Published: July 2024

Material-by-design has been a long-standing aspiration that has recently become a reality. Such designer materials have been repeatedly demonstrated using the top-down approach of mechanical exfoliation and stacking, leading to a variety of artificial 2D heterostructures with new properties that are otherwise unattainable. Consequently, tremendous research frontiers in physics, chemistry, engineering, and life science have been created. While thousands of layered crystals exist in nature, only a few dozen of them with manageable chemical-stability have been made into heterostructures using this method. Moreover, experimental investigations of materials that have received limited exploration in the 2D realm, such as cuprates, halides, and perovskites, along with their heterostructures, have been fundamentally hindered by their rapid chemical degradation. Another critical challenge imposed by exfoliating and stacking 2D layers in ambient environment is the absorption of itinerant gas molecules that further contaminate sensitive 2D interfaces in the heterostructures. Such contamination and compromised material properties significantly hinder surface-sensitive local probes—scanning probe microscopy (SPM)—that often require nanometer to atomic scale surface cleanliness. In this article, we aim to provide a technical review of recent development toward 2D materials and heterostructure fabrication in more controlled environments that are suitable for SPM characterizations. These include the development of more efficient mechanical exfoliation and dry-transfer techniques, as well as the incorporation of 2D material exfoliation and transfer in inert gas, low vacuum, and, eventually, ultra-high vacuum environments. Finally, we provide an outlook on the remaining challenges and opportunities in ultra-clean 2D material fabrication techniques.
Enhanced mechanical and thermophysical properties of Mg2Ca, Al2Ca, and Al4Ca bulk metallic glasses in comparison to crystalline alloys for bone grafting applications: A molecular dynamics investigation
Authors: Shankar A. , Bhatt N. K.
Published: July 2024

We investigate the glassy-state properties of Mg2Ca, Al2Ca, and Al4Ca from the grafting application viewpoint. We employed classical molecular dynamics to examine the phase transition, structural, thermodynamic, transport, and mechanical properties in the amorphous state. All properties suggest successful simulations of the glass phase at and below the glass transition temperature, ranging between 550 and 689 K for Mg2Ca, Al2Ca, and Al4Ca. Computed results are compared and discussed with the reported findings and known mechanical and thermal properties of the various parts of the human bones and biocomposites. The comparison establishes that the mechanical, thermal, and transport properties significantly improve in the glass phase compared to its crystalline alloy form. At 300 K, studied glasses have densities in close agreement with human bone density. Structural analysis and heat capacity show the second-order phase transition, verifying the formation of the glass structure. The targeted glasses exhibit excellent thermal conductivity and thermal diffusivity compared to other commonly used biocomposites for bone grafting. Furthermore, the simulated elastic properties, viz., the Poisson ratio, G/B ratio, Cauchy's pressure, and yield strength, are in close agreement with the mechanical properties of various parts of human bone. The predicted ductility nature, contrary to the brittle character of Mg2Ca, Al2Ca, and Al4Ca crystalline alloys, proves the superiority of the glassy form for the implant's functioning. The minimum enthalpy of formation and thermodynamic stability of studied compounds benefit the synthesis process; hence, we propose that the studied glasses are persuasive materials for experimental synthesis aimed at bone grating applications.
Multi-station collaborative wave height prediction based on multi-feature identification and interpretable analysis
Authors: Feng Xiao-Chen , Xu Hang
Published: July 2024

This study proposes a novel deep learning model, the graph convolutional gated recurrent unit (GC-GRU), to address the critical challenge of accurate forecasting of ocean wave heights due to the complex nonlinear spatiotemporal variability of wave dynamics. The proposed model, which integrates the strengths of graph convolutional networks (GCNs) for spatial feature extraction and gated recurrent units (GRUs) for temporal feature extraction, allows for effective capture of complex spatiotemporal patterns in wave height data and is evaluated on a dataset of 666 observation stations in the Gulf of Mexico, forecasting wave heights up to 36 h in advance. Comparative experiments with traditional CNN and GRU models demonstrate the superior predictive performance of the GC-GRU approach. Additionally, we introduce the shapley additive explanation (SHAP) values to provide physical insights into the key physical variables and historical patterns driving the model's predictions. The results show that wind speed and mean wave period are the most influential factors related to wave height variations. It is expected that this work presents a significant advancement in wave height forecasting by introducing the innovative GC-GRU architecture and leveraging SHAP analysis to interpret the model's inner workings. The findings are expected to have important implications for enhancing coastal and maritime operations as well as informing our understanding of complex ocean wave dynamics.
Aerodynamic study of high-speed railway tunnels with variable cross section utilizing equivalent excavation volume
Authors: Li Wenhui , Gu Yifan , Zhao Weifeng , Deng Yelin , Fan Xueliang
Published: July 2024

High-speed railway tunnels, being critical components of transportation infrastructure, are subject to various aerodynamic effects that can impact train operations and passenger comfort. To address these challenges, the concept of tunnels with variable cross sections offers a promising solution, allowing for non-uniform adjustments to tunnel geometry along its length. By employing the notion of equivalent excavation volume, this paper aims to provide a comprehensive aerodynamic analysis of variable cross section tunnels, focusing on different rates of cross section variation (CR). The simulation of high-speed trains (HSTs) passing through tunnels is conducted using the compressible, unsteady Reynolds-Averaged Navier–Stokes model, and the accuracy is confirmed through experimental validation. The transient pressure and peak distribution, slipstream characteristics, micro-pressure waves, and aerodynamic loads acting on trains are fully evaluated. The results indicate that variable cross section tunnels can alleviate the negative pressure on train surface, particularly with streamlined heads and tails exhibiting superior effects, whereas its influence on positive pressure is minimal. The mitigation of both positive and negative pressures on the tunnels is promising, with the maximum peak-to-peak pressures exhibiting a quadratic decrease as the CR increases, resulting in a maximum relief of 17.7%. However, variable cross section tunnels have certain adverse effects on slipstreams and transient loads when HSTs passing through front junctions. Therefore, it is necessary to choose an appropriate CR to control these effects during design process. The findings of this research contribute novel insight for optimizing tunnel design and engineering practices to enhance operational efficiency and passenger comfort.
Manipulating the metal–insulator transitions and thermoelectric bi-functionality for correlated vanadium dioxide pellets
Authors: Zhou Xuanchi , Jiao Yongjie , Li Haifan
Published: July 2024

The electron correlations as triggered by on-site Coulomb repulsion within correlated vanadium dioxide (VO2) open up an emerging paradigm to explore new electronic phases and promising device applications. Apart from correlated electrical transport, the thermoelectric thermopower (S) of VO2 also undergoes abrupt variation across the critical temperature (TMIT) that sheds lights on the potential thermoelectric functionality. Nevertheless, bridging bi-functionality of VO2 associated with the thermistor and thermoelectric properties is still restricted by the limitation in improving the absolute magnitude of S and temperature coefficient of resistance (TCR). Herein, we demonstrate the widely adjustable metal–insulator transition (MIT) behavior and overlooked thermoelectric performance for Ti-substituted VO2 pellets that enable the bi-functionality strategy as combined with thermistor and thermoelectric properties. As-achieved tunable TMIT while maintaining large |TCR| is herein achieved for Ti-substituted VO2 pellets that enables practical device applications near room temperature. Apart from the well-known MIT functionality, we reveal the overlooked thermoelectric properties for VO2 via coherently co-sintering with TiO2 that introduces a new freedom (thermopower). Specifically, the largely enhanced thermopower observed for insulating V1−xTixO2 exceeds the one for pristine VO2 by five times, while the thermoelectric power factor for its metallic phase is comparable to typical organic or oxide thermoelectric materials. The presently achieved thermistor and thermoelectric bi-functionality (e.g., |S| > 100 μV/K and |TCR| > 1 K−1) for Ti-substituted VO2 pellets extends the horizons in material designs that combines such a bi-functionality to achieve both the passive and active sensing for improving the accuracy in thermal perturbations of VO2 bulk as infrared detectors near room temperature.
Synthesis, characterization and base hydrolysis of cobalt(III) complexes coordinated by substituted phenylthioether ligands
Authors: Roecker Lee , Cohn Alicia , Cox Thomas , Ceaglske Rachel , Rick Olivia , Miller Knagge Ella , Parkin Sean
Published: July 2024

A synthetic route to the preparation of cobalt(III) complexes coordinated by bidentate phenylthioether ligands is described. Complexes of the type ((2-(X-phenylthio)ethylamine)-N,S)bis(ethylenediamine)cobalt(III) perchlorate, [(en)2Co(S(X-phenyl)CH2CH2NH2)](ClO4)3, where X = 4-methoxy (2a), 4-methyl (2b), 3-methyl (2c), nothing (2d), 3-methoxy (2e), 4-bromo (2f) and 3-bromo (2g) were prepared. The synthetic route involves reaction of trans-dichloridobis(ethylenediamine)cobalt(III) chloride with NH2CH2CH2SC6H4X to produce cis-[(en)2CoCl(NH2CH2CH2SC6H4X)]Cl2 (1a–g). Formation of the Co–S bond, completing the ring closure, is then accomplished by removing the coordinated chlorido by addition of AgClO4 in sulfolane. Complexes were characterized by 1H and 13C NMR spectroscopy, UV-Vis spectroscopy and elemental analysis. In addition, the solid-state structure (X-ray) of the monohydrate of 2d confirms the coordination mode of the ligand. Preliminary kinetic investigations in basic solution show that the Co–S bond is broken resulting in the formation of [(en)2Co(OH)(NH2CH2CH2SC6H4X)]2+. At 15.0°C, a Hammett Plot is linear (r2 = 0.981) with ρ = 2.24 ± 0.13.
Elachanthus, Isoetopsis and Kippistia are nested in the genus Minuria (Asteraceae: Astereae)
Authors: Schmidt-Lebuhn Alexander N. , Chen Stephanie H. , Grealy Alicia
Published: July 2024

While conducting phylogenetic analyses of sequence-capture data of Australian members of Asteraceae tribe Astereae, we found that Elachanthus pusillus F.Muell., Isoetopsis graminifolia Turcz. and Kippistia suaedifolia F.Muell. formed a clade with Minuria. We, therefore, conducted an analysis focused on this clade, but with replicate samples of the three smaller genera, and confirmed our results. Kippistia had been synonymised under Minuria between 1876 and 1980, when it was reinstated. Elachanthus and Isoetopsis had not previously been suggested to be part of Minuria, and, indeed, Isoetopsis had been considered so morphologically divergent that even its tribal affiliations were long controversial. However, on closer examination, Elachanthus and Isoetopsis are strikingly similar to Minuria, especially in cypsela and pappus morphology. The evolution of both genera from a common ancestor in Minuria appears plausible in the light of their overall similarity to annual species of that genus such as M. annua, their multiple uniform rows of herbaceous phyllaries with scarious margins, a pappus of scales v. the tendency of Minuria to form pappi with scale-like bases, female outer and male inner florets, and a cypsela indumentum shared with some species of Minuria. We propose the following three new combinations under Minuria: M. pusilla, M. glabra and M. graminifolia.
Commercially traded fish portfolios mask household utilization of biodiversity in wild food systems
Authors: Fiorella Kathryn J. , Bageant Elizabeth R. , Thilsted Shakuntala H. , Heilpern Sebastian A.
Published: July 2024

The global biodiversity that underpins wild food systems—including fisheries—is rapidly declining. Yet, we often have only a limited understanding of how households use and benefit from biodiversity in the ecosystems surrounding them. Explicating these relationships is critical to forestall and mitigate the effects of biodiversity declines on food and nutrition security. Here, we quantify how biodiversity filters from ecosystems to household harvest, consumption, and sale, and how ecological traits and household characteristics shape these relationships. We used a unique, integrated ecological (40 sites, quarterly data collection) and household survey (n = 414, every 2 mo data collection) dataset collected over 3 y in rice field fisheries surrounding Cambodia’s Tonlé Sap, one of Earth’s most productive and diverse freshwater systems. While ecosystem biodiversity was positively associated with household catch, consumption, and sold biodiversity, households consumed an average of 43% of the species present in the ecosystem and sold only 9%. Larger, less nutritious, and more common species were disproportionally represented in portfolios of commercially traded species, while consumed species mirrored catches. The relationship between ecosystem and consumed biodiversity was remarkably consistent across variation in household fishing effort, demographics, and distance to nearest markets. Poorer households also consumed more species, underscoring how wild food systems may most benefit the vulnerable. Our findings amplify concerns about the impacts of biodiversity loss on our global food systems and highlight that utilization of biodiversity for consumption may far exceed what is commercially traded.