bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
A modified two-layer scalar diffusivity description for high Schmidt and Prandtl turbulent boundary layers
Authors: Wong Kin Wing , Mickus Ignas , Grishchenko Dmitry , Kudinov Pavel
Published: February 2025

In engineering systems operating under high Schmidt (Sc) or Prandtl (Pr) number flow conditions, the demand for near-wall mesh refinement increases significantly, underscoring the need for cost-effective modeling approaches that avoid additional computational overhead. Existing models, which are predominantly designed for low-Sc flows, overlook temporal filtering effects, resulting in inaccuracies in theoretical description and mass transfer predictions. This paper addresses the impact of high Sc or Pr by refining the single-layer scalar diffusivity model. It introduces a switch between scalar filtering and eddy viscosity-dominated regions, leveraging two parameters: κSc, accounting for temporal filtering effects, and κRe, addressing variations in Reynolds number. In addition, we adopted a complementary outer layer term to model the upwarding trend in low frictional Reynolds number condition. Using the two-layer model with unity Sc and/or Pr, a close agreement with the von-Kármán constant in the velocity boundary layer was observed. The modified model demonstrated strong agreement with scalar profiles across a broad range of Sc and friction Reynolds numbers (Reτ) in direct numerical simulation and large eddy simulation data, demonstrating its accuracy at low Reτ and predictive performance at high Reτ. The two-layer model improves the prediction of turbulent mass transfer, providing better alignment with high Sc engineering correlations than existing wall model approach. This study provides valuable insight for modeling the mass and heat transfer processes under high Sc or Pr conditions.
Brownian motion hydrodynamics: A study on logic, fact, and similitude
Authors: Giona Massimiliano , Procopio Giuseppe , Pezzotti Chiara
Published: February 2025

The article analyzes some new results that are emerging from highly resolved experimental analysis of Brownian trajectories, addressing their deep connection with the hydrodynamic modeling in light of resolving the paradoxes of the infinite speed of propagation of hydrodynamic fields, which is intrinsic to the assumption of incompressibility in liquids and to the parabolic nature of the hydrodynamic equations. The key quantity is the added mass and its emergence as a consequence of the physically consistent extension of the regularity properties to hydrodynamic-thermal fluctuations (logic). This extension is compared and contrasted with the experimental observations of the added mass effect (fact), the signature of which is the deviation of the squared variance of Brownian velocity fluctuations at equilibrium from the Maxwellian prediction, developing a careful statistical analysis of their statistical validity. Finally, the analogy (similitude) of the added mass effect with other field-theoretical mechanisms of mass gain (e.g., electron's self-energy in quantum field theory) is addressed.
Evaluating several dose-response curves with a common zero level
Authors: Piepho Hans-Peter , Onofri Andrea , Malik Waqas A.
Published: February 2025

Background
: Experiments in different fields, including ecotoxicology, crop protection and agronomy, frequently involve qualitatively different inputs that can be applied in different doses. For each input, a separate dose-response curve can be fitted. If the dose levels include zero for each treatment, the curves must pass through the same intercept. Recently, the so-called Quenouille-Addelman solution has been proposed to analyse such data. This commentary shows a simple, previously published alternative to this method that is both easier to implement and statistically more efficient.
Results:
Three examples illustrate how a linear model package can be used to efficiently analyse several dose-response curves with a common intercept.
Conclusion:
The Quenouille-Addelman solution was originally proposed before computers when fully-fledged regression analyses posed a formidable task. That method traded convenience of computation for some loss of efficiency. With the availability of good regression packages, such a trade-off has become obsolete and a fully efficient analysis is easily obtained.
Integrated crop-fish farming system improves land and water productivity in a flood prone lowland
Authors: Rautaray Sachin Kanta , Sinhababu Dhurjati Prasad , Das Pratap Chandra , Kaledhonkar M.J.
Published: February 2025

Rice productivity is low and uncertain in flood prone lowlands. Conservation of excess rainwater through proper land modification and intensive management may improve the productivity of such fragile lands. So, the impact of land modification for integrated crop-fish farming system (IFS) on improving land and water productivity was studied in 0.5 ha rainfed lowland for 6 years (2002 to 2008) at Regional Rainfed Lowland Rice Research Station, Gerua, Assam, India. Land modification for the IFS involved excavating soil for pond refuge (7% area) and two side trenches (10% area), and constructing wide dykes (23% area) on 4 sides using the excavated soil. Remaining 60% area (main field) was used for field crops. On the main field, rice was grown in wet season. In the dry season, rice was grown for the initial 3 years (2002–2003 to 2004–2005) and low duty winter crops in the latter 3 years (2005–2006 to 2007–2008). Harvested water with the IFS facilitated dry season cultivation. However, the dry season rice crop required 2 to 4 irrigations (25 to 50 cm) from an outside source and produced a grain yield at 4.36 t ha
−1
with physical water productivity of 0.49 kg m
−3
. The dry season winter crops produced rice equivalent yield at 3.07 t ha
−1
with physical water productivity of 0.68 kg m
−3
. Fish productivity was 0.89 t ha
−1
. Fish yield was 26% higher when the cropping sequence on the main field was rice-rice
vs
the rice-dry season crop. Water harvesting and multiple use of water for the IFS increased net return, land productivity, economic water productivity and sustainable yield index by 2.2, 3.8, 2.1, and 1.6 times, respectively, as compared to the conventional practice of no land modification rice-fallow. So, integrated crop fish farming system was beneficial in harvesting excess water and using it for improving land and water productivity in addition to sustainability in flood prone lowlands of eastern India.
The Slow and Resolute Resurrection of the Destination Sarajevo
Authors: Martin-Colonna Cyril
Published: February 2025

Between 1992 and 1995, Bosnia and Herzegovina suffered a major armed conflict. This brought major disruption of the urban system to the capital, Sarajevo. This conflict caused a fracture inside the society and its urban identity. After the immediate reconstruction stage, a new process called post-conflict transition, event or disaster followed and required the collaboration of actors at multiple scales. This promoted the realization of new urban and societal projects. The tourism sector is one of these projects, creators, and carriers of new representations of the city, promoting the reconstruction of the tourist destination and the renewal of urban identity through a new tourism development of the city, which promotes the memory of the past conflict. These representations, modelled by the different urban actors (local and national, international, tourist and cultural policies), are transmitted to the tourist level through the urban space, bringing them to the attention of tourists, which can promote territorial attractiveness and economic benefits for local populations. However, following a conflict, the decision making actors of the city can make conflicting choices, particularly in the case of cities that have experienced internal conflicts. The case highlights the situation of Sarajevo between 2022 and 2024, increasingly embracing the European model of the cultural and sustainable tourist city, while preserving the memory of the past conflict, against a backdrop of political and identity crises.

Information

© The Author 2025
Benchmark of neutral beam simulation codes with motional Stark effect for applications in ITER
Authors: Balazs Peter , von Hellermann Manfred G , Shabashov Aleksei , Asztalos Örs , Pokol Gergo I
Published: February 2025

Motional Stark effect (MSE) measurements have been useful for characterizing the magnetic field structure in several tokamaks over the past decades. The Stark splitting in the emission spectrum of injected high-energy neutrals carries information about both the magnetic field strength and direction, although only the directional information is extracted in most measurements. There are several codes capable of simulating the spectrum emitted by neutral beams with the MSE included, aiding the design and utilization of beam emission spectroscopy (BES) or MSE diagnostic systems. In this paper, we compare two of such codes, namely Simulation of Spectra by M. v. Hellermann and CASPER based on Cherab & Raysect, both expected to play an important role in the synthetic-diagnostic toolbox of ITER. The basis of the benchmark is an ITER scenario representative of the machine's baseline performance, with emphasis on the relation between spectral components contributing to the background and the MSE spectrum itself.It was found that after carefully matching the inputs of the codes, the MSE simulations show generally good agreement, apart from a known issue regarding the sigma-to-pi line ratios. In terms of the two examined background components, bulk-ion charge exchange shows an overall good agreement, while the line radiation of the SOL region mirrors some fundamental differences in the modeling in the modeling.
Thermal transformations and dissociations in polycrystalline CO2 hydrates
Authors: Li Xinheng , Qu Yongxiao , Li Yuan , Shi Xiaoyu , Xiong Kaibin , Zhang Zhisen , Wu Jianyang
Published: February 2025

CO2 hydrates show promising application in CO2 sequestration, as well as natural gas recovering from hydrate-bearing sediments, in which the stability of CO2 hydrates plays a vital role in these practical applications. Here, we report the thermal dissociation and cage transformations in polycrystalline CO2 hydrates via molecular dynamics (MD) simulations and machine learning (ML). It is revealed that the melting points of polycrystalline CO2 hydrates (PCO2H) are dictated by the microstructural cages, in which 512, 51262 and 4151063 cages predominate. Upon heating, PCO2H shows reduction trend in the number of clathrate cages, accompanied by large-scale cage reformations via 28 types of reversible/irreversible cage transformations. The cage transformations are achieved via mechanisms of removing, inserting and rotating water molecules, in which water molecules in clathrate cages substantially exchange. Cage transformations involve 512, 51262, 4151063, and 4151062 are pronouncedly frequent, acting as pivotal intermediate pathway in the thermal dissociation of PCO2H. The study provides a clear roadmap on the thermally-induced cage transformations and their mechanisms, and establishes ML frameworks to predict the dissociation behaviors in terms of melting points and melting dynamics.
Highly sensitive refractive index sensing with a perfect MIM absorber in visible to near-infrared range
Authors: Kaium Sk Md Abdul Kaium , Mollah Md. Aslam
Published: February 2025

An innovative metasurface refractive index sensor that operates in the visible to near-infrared (NIR) range is introduced in this work. The sensor has a unique half-ring, half-square split design which allows it to reach dual absorption peaks, resulting in near-perfect absorption values of 99.97\% in the visible range and 99.99\% in the near-infrared region. Reaching 530.05 nm/RIU for the visible spectrum's first peak and 620.24 nm/RIU for the NIR's second peak, the resonant structure has remarkable refractive index sensitivity. Additionally, the metasurface's highest figure of merit (FOM) of 13.88 RIU-1 highlights how effective it is in detecting refractive index. The sensor has a robust linear response to changes in the refractive index and functions efficiently throughout a range of 1 to 1.5. Through the utilization of both surface plasmon resonance and Fabry-Pérot cavity resonances, the device's distinct design improves light-matter interaction, which in turn increases sensitivity and absorption. Finite element method (FEM) simulations in the frequency domain revealed the optimal geometric parameters for maximum performance. With its high absorption capacity and polarization insensitivity, this unique design provides a flexible platform for use in chemical detection, environmental monitoring, and biosensing. The structure's scalability and tunability further increase its potential for useful sensing solutions in a variety of industries.
AC loss evaluations of twisted multifilament magnesium diboride (MgB2) wires under practical operating conditions based on experiments
Authors: Sogabe Yusuke , Sobue Takuya , Shigemasa Mao , Uegaki Hiiragi , Jiang Zhenan , Sun Yueming , Strickland Nicholas M , Chong Shen V , Rindfleisch Matthew A , Amemiya Naoyuki
Published: February 2025

We measured the frequency-dependent magnetization losses of twisted multifilament MgB2 wires subjected to ac transverse magnetic fields with a small amplitude, under which coupling loss dominates magnetization loss, and then, we determined their coupling time constants as well as their geometry factors of coupling losses at various temperatures. We also measured the hysteresis loops of their magnetizations using a vibrating sample magnetometer, and then, we calculated the hysteresis losses at various magnetic field amplitudes and at various temperatures. Note that such calculated values represent the hysteresis losses in completely decoupled filaments in a twisted multifilament MgB2 wire. Using these values obtained experimentally, we calculated the magnetization losses of twisted multifilament MgB2 wires under practical operating conditions, i.e., at various magnetic field amplitudes, at various magnetic field frequencies, and at various temperatures, considering the saturation of the filamentary region in the wire, which occurs at magnetic fields with high frequencies and large amplitudes.
Impact of switch overcritical regime on the output voltage and charging current in an AC field-controlled transformer-rectifier HTS flux pump
Authors: Gong Tianyong , Queval Loic
Published: February 2025

High-temperature superconducting (HTS) flux pumps eliminate the need for bulky current leads and high-current power supplies when charging superconducting devices. In such systems, superconducting switches are essential for optimal performance. Typically, the switch critical current is designed above a certain threshold, such as twice the load critical current, to prevent operation in the overcritical regime where the switch current exceeds its critical current. However, due to limitations in the fabrication process and potential performance degradation during operation, the switches may fail to meet this condition, leading to changes in the performance of the flux pumps. This paper experimentally investigates the impact of the switch overcritical regime on the performance of an AC field-controlled transformer-rectifier HTS flux pump, revealing that how the output voltage and charging current vary with key operating parameters, including the amplitude and frequency of the transformer primary current, as well as the amplitude, frequency, and duration of the switch electromagnet current. No-load voltage tests show that when the switch enters the overcritical regime, the output voltage decreases as the transformer secondary current increases, due to the generation of flux flow resistive after the switch is swiched off. Charging tests revealed that once the switch current reaches its critical current, the charging process halts prematurely. Afterward, increasing the electromagnet current slightly boosts load current, while increasing the transformer current significantly reduces it. Additionally, we observed that the load was charged when only the switch was powered, suggesting the possibility of eliminating the transformer power supply. Based on experimental results, it is predicted that the switch critical current must be at least 1.66 times the load critical current to fully charge the load in our flux pump.
Integration of BOTDA and φ-OTDR Distributed Fiber Sensing for Multiple Parameters Monitoring
Authors: Wang Zi , Zou Yang-En , Guo Chen-Yin , Liaw Shien-Kuei , Yang Ya-Mei , Lee Bo-Heng , Yeh Chien-Hung
Published: February 2025

In this article, the integration of the Brillouin optical time-domain analysis (BOTDA) and the phase-sensitive optical time domain reflectometry (φ-OTDR) distributed fiber sensing systems is discussed. By combining the two systems and sharing common instruments, the cost of the experiments is minimized, enabling the sensing of three parameters: temperature, strain, and vibration on the same 18.7 km fiber. In the BOTDA part, the focus is on temperature and strain analysis. Two 4m dispersion shifted fibers (DSF) are used to simulate strain at different positions, causing the Brillouin frequency shift (BFS) to shift from 10.88 GHz to 10.52 GHz, allowing for strain sensing. The two 4m single mode fibers and DSF are separately heated from room temperature to 200°C, resulting in an R2 value of 0.97654 and 0.99958, respectively, indicating a good linear relationship. In the φ-OTDR section, vibration point frequencies were demodulated using an external interferometer system based on Mach-Zehnder interferometer (MZI). This article presents comprehensive experiments that demonstrate the ability to achieve multi-parameter sensing on a single fiber using a hybrid system, all within a low-cost framework.
Electrochemical investigations of B-Site modified La2BMnO6 (B = Ni, Co, Fe) electrospun fibers for supercapacitor performance
Authors: Yasmin Yasmin , J Gracie P , D Geetha , Jeyanthi Narthana
Published: February 2025

Perovskite oxides have attracted attention in recent years owing to their superior electrochemical performance. Here, we report the series of single-phase double perovskite oxides fibers of La2NiMnO6, La2CoMnO6 and La2FeMnO6 using a simple sol-gel assisted electrospinning method and its application in supercapacitors, investigated first time. The crystal structure, functional groups and fibrous morphology were investigated using X-ray diffraction (XRD), Fourier Transform Infrared Spectroscopy (FT-IR) and High-Resolution Scanning Electron Microscopy (HRSEM-EDAX). The Goldschmidt tolerance factor and cell parameters were refined using Rietveld refinement program. The synthesized fibers presented an unfragmented network of thickness in the range of 200-380nm. The electrochemical performance of electrodes were elucidated using three-electrode system in 3M KOH. The specific capacitances of La2NiMnO6, La2CoMnO6 and La2FeMnO6 electrodes were 1272 F/g, 1048 F/g and 238 F/g at 4mA/g. The Nyquist plots of La2NiMnO6 and La2CoMnO6 electrode displayed the sloping line in low frequency and a semicircle in the high frequency region while La2FeMnO6 electrode experienced a flat line which was observed due to large internal resistance of Fe.Among the synthesized fibers, La2NiMnO6 electrode showcased the highest specific capacitance with 87.5% cycling stability after 3000 cycles which shows the better stability of La2NiMnO6 electrode and its use for practical applications.
Deep learning models as learners for EEG-based functional brain networks
Authors: Yang Yuxuan , Li Yanli
Published: February 2025

Objective. Functional brain network (FBN) methods are commonly integrated with deep learning (DL) models for EEG analysis. Typically, an FBN is constructed to extract features from EEG data, which are then fed into a DL model for further analysis. Beyond this two-step approach, there is potential to embed FBN construction directly within DL models as a feature extraction module, enabling the models to learn EEG representations end-to-end while incorporating insights from FBNs. However, a critical prerequisite is whether DL models can effectively learn the FBN construction process. Approach. To address this, we propose using DL models to learn FBN matrices derived from EEG data. The ability of DL models to accurately reproduce these matrices would validate their capacity to learn the FBN construction process. This approach is tested on two publicly available EEG datasets, utilizing seven DL models to learn four representative FBN matrices. Model performance is assessed through mean squared error (MSE), Pearson correlation coefficient (Corr), and concordance correlation coefficient (CCC) between predicted and actual matrices. Main Results. The results show that DL models achieve low MSE and relatively high Corr and CCC values when learning the Coherence network. Visualizations of predicted and error matrices reveal that while DL models capture the general structure of all four FBNs, certain regions remain difficult to model accurately. Additionally, a paired t-test comparing global efficiency and nodal degree between predicted and actual networks indicates that most predicted networks significantly differ from the actual networks (p < 0.05). Significance. These findings suggest that while DLmodels can learn the connectivity relationships of certain FBNs, they struggle to capture the intrinsic topological structures. This highlights the irreplaceability of traditional FBN methods in EEG analysis and underscores the need for hybrid strategies that combine FBN methods with DL models for a more comprehensive analysis.
Dynamical intracranial EEG functional network controllability localizes the seizure onset zone and predicts the epilepsy surgical outcome
Authors: Ding Ling , Zou Qingyu , Zhu Junming , Wang Yueming , Yang Yuxiao
Published: February 2025

Objective. Seizure onset zone (SOZ) localization and SOZ resection outcome prediction are critical for the surgical treatment of drug-resistant epilepsy but have mainly relied on manual inspection of intracranial electroencephalography (iEEG) monitoring data, which can be both inaccurate and time-consuming. Therefore, automating SOZ localization and surgical outcome prediction by using appropriate iEEG neural features and machine learning models has become an emerging topic. However, current channel-wise local features, graph-theoretic network features, and system-theoretic network features cannot fully capture the spatial, temporal, and neural dynamical aspects of epilepsy, hindering accurate SOZ localization and surgical outcome prediction. Approach. Here, we develop a method for computing dynamical functional network controllability from multi-channel iEEG signals, which from a control-theoretic viewpoint, has the ability to simultaneously capture the spatial, temporal, functional, and dynamical aspects of epileptic brain networks. We then apply multiple machine learning models to use iEEG functional network controllability for localizing SOZ and predicting surgical outcomes in drug-resistant epilepsy patients and compare with existing neural features. We finally combine iEEG functional network controllability with representative local, graph-theoretic, and system-theoretic features to leverage complementary information for further improving performance. Main results. We find that iEEG functional network controllability at SOZ channels is significantly higher than that of other channels. We further show that machine learning models using iEEG functional network controllability successfully localize SOZ and predict surgical outcomes, significantly outperforming existing local, graph-theoretic, and system-theoretic features. We finally demonstrate that there exists complementary information among different types of neural features and fusing them further improves performance. Significance. Our results suggest that iEEG functional network controllability is an effective feature for automatic SOZ localization and surgical outcome prediction in epilepsy treatment.
Digitization of analog systems of older radiation monitoring instruments based on emerging technologies for radiation protection and nuclear security
Authors: Kountchou Noube Michaux , Ioannidou Alexandra , Sa\"{\i}dou  , Ioannidou Eleftheria , Folifack Signing Vitrice Ruben , Mbarndouka Taamté Jacob , Konstantakos Vasileios , Nikolaidis Emmanouil
Published: February 2025

This work addresses the problem of converting the analog
measurement systems of older radiation monitoring instruments into
fully digital automated measurement systems based on emerging
technologies. For the purposes of this study, the outdated analog
“BICRON Analyst” instrument will be completely transformed with
new, more efficient digital instruments that are also easier to
maintain, repair, and calibrate. Unlike the analog instrument, the
digital instrument is more accurate providing the exact number of
radioactive particles detected and the battery level. New
technologies and efficient, cost-effective electronic components
were used, namely a microcontroller board, which represents the
central element of the digitization process, a digital display to
replace the analog display and a micro-SD memory card module to
record and store the measurement data in real time as well as a GPS
module to determine the date, time and GPS coordinates of the
location where the measurement was taken. First, laboratory tests
were carried out to verify the proper functioning of the “BICRON
Analyst” according to its operating instructions. The complete
schematic circuit diagram and main board assembly (component side)
of the instrument were used to identify the points (exact location)
where the signals to be digitized must be taken from the electronic
boards. The instrument was carefully disassembled to add and attach
the new electronic components, and then the Arduino board was
appropriately programmed to complete the digitization
process. Calibration and operational control of the proper
functioning of the fully digitized equipment was carried out using a
Cs-137 gamma ray calibration source to determine the response of the
instrument as a function of its distance from the radiation
source. Given the generally high costs of laboratory equipment,
cost-effective recycling of old, outdated and bulky analogue
equipment is of great interest, particularly from an economic
perspective.
Structural, microstructural, dielectric, mechanical properties of PVDF/HAP nanocomposite films for bone regeneration applications
Authors: Kajal Parida A P , Mishra Balaram , Gupta Mukesh Kumar , Kumar Pawan
Published: February 2025

PVDF/HAP nanocomposite films, incorporating hydroxyapatite (HAP) nanoparticles as filler within a PVDF matrix, were successfully synthesized by solution casting method. Increasing the HAP concentration in the nanocomposite significantly enhances its electroactive properties, with synergistic effects on surface, electrical and biological characteristics are investigated comprehensively. Improvements in topographical and mechanical parameters reveal the nanocomposite films for biomimetic suitability. Notably, the impact of dielectric and ferroelectric properties on biological studies is well established. With increasing the HAP concentration, we observed significant improvements in remnant polarization from 0.28 to 1.87 µC/cm², saturation polarization from 1.1 to 2.10 µC/cm², and coercive field from 88.55 to 243.65 kV/cm. In in-vitro experiments with osteosarcoma cells, the nanocomposite films with 40% HAP showed higher cell proliferation and viability. Present finding indicated 60PVDF/40HAP nanocomposite films as a biomimicry candidate for bone regeneration applications.
Single-cone Dirac edge states on a lattice
Authors: Donis Vela Alvaro , Beenakker Carlo W J
Published: February 2025

The stationary Dirac equation, confined to a two-dimensional (2D) region, supports states propagating along the boundary and decaying exponentially away from the boundary. These edge states appear on the 2D surface of a 3D topological insulator, where massless fermionic quasiparticles are governed by the Dirac equation and confined by a magnetic insulator. We show how the continuous system can be simulated on a 2D square lattice, without running into the fermion-doubling obstruction. For that purpose we adapt the existing tangent fermion discretization on an unbounded lattice to account for a lattice termination that simulates the magnetic insulator interface.
A review of graded scaffolds made by additive manufacturing for tissue engineering: design, fabrication and properties
Authors: Wang Yue , Chen Shangsi , Liang Haowen , Bai Jiaming
Published: February 2025

The emergence of tissue engineering (TE) has provided new vital means for human body tissue/organ repair. TE scaffolds can provide temporary structural support for cell attachment, growth, and proliferation, until the body restores the mechanical and biological properties of the host tissues. Since native tissues are inhomogeneous and in many situations are graded structures for performing their unique functions, graded scaffolds have become increasingly attractive for regenerating particular types of tissues, which aim to offer a more accurate replication of native interactions and functions. Importantly, the advances introduced by additive manufacturing (AM) have now enabled more design freedom and are capable of tailoring both structural and compositional gradients within a single scaffold. In this context, graded TE scaffolds fabricated by AM technologies have been attracting increasing attention. In this review, we start with an introduction of common graded structures in the human body and analyse the advantages and strengths of AM-formed graded scaffolds. Various AM technologies that can be leveraged to produce graded scaffolds are then reviewed based on non-cellular 3D printing and cell-laden 3D bioprinting. The comparisons among various AM technologies for fabricating graded scaffolds are presented. Subsequently, we propose several types of gradients, structural, material, biomolecular and multi-gradients for scaffolds, and highlight the design methods, resulting mechanical properties and biological responses. Finally, current status, challenges and perspectives for AM in developing graded scaffolds are exhibited and discussed.
Coupled ionizing-radiation/optical-photon transport Monte Carlo simulations for characterisation of light signal in an optical fiber radioluminescence dosimetry system
Authors: Moradi Farhad , Oresegun Adebiyi , Khodaei Amin , Bradley David A , Taheri Ali , Khandaker Mayeen Uddin , Abdul-Rashid Hairul A
Published: February 2025

Optical fiber radioluminescence (RL) dosimetry has gained prominence in modern radiation therapy, offering real-time measurement and high spatial resolution. Our research group has developed a system utilizing a polymethyl methacrylate (PMMA) transmission fiber coupled with a photodetector and various scintillators, including doped silica fibers. A critical challenge in RL dosimetry lies in distinguishing the stem signal, generated by the transmission optical fiber, from the primary light signal produced by the RL sensor. To address this issue, we employed the Geant4 simulation tool, allowing for the simultaneous tracking of ionizing radiation and optical photons. In this study, the Geant4-based code, TOPAS, was utilized to conduct Monte Carlo simulations, aiming to gain insights into the radioluminescence signal in an optical fiber RL dosimeter and specifically characterize the stem signal for enhanced measurement accuracy. The simulations encompassed interactions of a medical photon beam from an Elekta linac within a solid water phantom, subsequent energy deposition within the RL sensor, and the generation and transmission of light signals within the optical fiber. Our emphasis was placed on detailed characterization of the light signals originating from both the Ge-doped silica fiber and PMMA transmission fiber. The primary focus was not only to discern the stem signal from the main signal but also to differentiate between the fluorescence and Cerenkov signals. Importantly, our study showcases how Monte Carlo simulations can be used to spectrally distinguish the stem signal from the scintillation signal of the sensor. This provides valuable insights, especially in scenarios where spectrometry is unavailable, contributing to the understanding and refinement of optical fiber RL dosimetry systems.
Internal biogas reforming in solid oxide and proton conducting ceramic cells: Progress, challenges and perspectives
Authors: Wolf Stephanie E , Uecker Jan , Eyckeler Niklas , Schley Leon , de Haart L G J (Bert) , Vibhu Vaibhav , Eichel Rüdiger-A
Published: February 2025

The internal reforming of biogas, a mixture containing carbon dioxide (CO2) and methane (CH4), in Solid Oxide and Solid Proton Conducting Fuel Cells (SOFCs, SPCFCs) is a sustainable and efficient method to produce syngas (H2 + CO) in combination with highly efficient electrical power generation. Reforming processes convert biogas into syngas by steam reforming, dry reforming, or partial oxidation, which then undergoes electrochemical reactions in the SOFCs/SPCFCs to produce electricity and heat. The Dry Methane Reforming Process (DMR) of the anthropogenic greenhouse gases CH4 and CO2 in the biogas can result in co-generation of electrical power and syngas mixtures of CO:H2 relevant for large-scale industrial processes like the Fischer-Tropsch process. Herein, a short review of promising developments in the literature concerning the internal dry reforming of biogas (CH4 and CO2) in oxygen-ion conducting and proton-conducting fuel cells is provided. The thermodynamics of different reforming processes, the advantages, disadvantages, and the fundamental electrochemical processes in SOFCs and SPCFCs are discussed comprehensively and comparatively. In addition, this article aims to provide a perspective on current gaps and possible future research efforts.
The Traditional Conception of Metaphysics
Authors: Thomasson Amie L
Published: February 2025

Metaphysics has traditionally been characterized as aiming to discover highly general, basic, or fundamental facts about the world. But this way of thinking of metaphysics has become outdated and problematic. This chapter presents three central problems that arise for this conception of metaphysics, including a rivalry with science, proliferation of views in a way that leads to skepticism, and epistemological mystery. The chapter also prefigures the diagnosis of where various approaches to metaphysics go wrong: in assuming that all the types of discourse of interest in metaphysics function to track or describe features of the world. One goal of the book is to show how we can identify the different functions various areas of discourse serve, in ways that enable us to unravel old metaphysical problems. Another goal is to show how we can avoid problems with the traditional conception of metaphysics by reconceiving work in metaphysics as conceptual engineering.
Fundamentality and Grounding Projects
Authors: Thomasson Amie L
Published: February 2025

In the last two decades it has become popular to think of metaphysics as properly concerned with fundamentality or grounding. This chapter argues that severe difficulties arise for the project of determining what’s absolutely fundamental, or for developing a “layered” picture of reality. We might still aim to identify local grounding or dependence relations between specific sorts of entity—but two cautions are needed. First, there needs to be a clear epistemology for determining what the relevant grounding relations are. Second, we need to avoid illegitimately generalizing, and assuming that questions about what “grounds” the relevant entities are always appropriate. The closing lesson of Part I is that, before we take on any metaphysical project, criterion, or standard of assessment, we must take a step back to first determine what functions the discourse serves and what rules it follows.
Identifying Linguistic Functions
Authors: Thomasson Amie L
Published: February 2025

To do a conceptual-engineering project well, we need a good notion of linguistic function, so that we can identify the functions extant parts of language have served and are to serve. This chapter confronts various sources of skepticism about our ability to identify linguistic functions, and makes use of work in systemic functional linguistics to show how to identify the functions of various parts and subsystems of language. Systemic functional linguistics begins from identifying the three metafunctions nearly all clauses simultaneously serve: ideational, interpersonal, and textual. It also identifies the important functions of “grammatical metaphors” (which are introduced via shifts from one part of speech to another) in developing scientific theories and bureaucracies. This approach to function not only enables us to overcome various old sources of skepticism about identifying linguistic functions but also enables us to disentangle ourselves from many old metaphysical problems.
IBC Oxford University Oral Abstract 4 - The impact of abdominoplasties in patients with prior sleeve gastrectomy on de novo GERD and the need for conversion to Roux-en-Y gastric bypass
Authors: Berk R , Lima D L , Park M , Serra J , Echeverri C , Wynn M , Camacho D
Published: February 2025

Introduction

The sleeve gastrectomy (SG) often requires conversion to Roux-en-Y gastric bypass (RYGB) due to gastroesophageal reflux disorder (GERD). Many post-bariatric patients seek body-contouring surgery such as abdominoplasty to remove unwanted skin and fat. While the number of abdominoplasties performed in post-bariatric patients is increasing each year, the number of conversion surgeries is increasing in accordance. This study evaluates the impact of abdominoplasties in patients with prior SG on the development of GERD and the need for conversion to RYGB.

Methods

A retrospective study was conducted with 630 patients who underwent conversions from SG to RYGB at our institution between January 2014 and September 2023.  Outcomes were stratified for comparison between patients with GERD as an indication for conversion and patients with inadequate weight loss as an indication for conversion. Between the two groups we compared the number of patients with post-SG abdominoplasty and the number of hiatal hernias seen during conversion surgery.

Results

There was a statistically significant higher number of abdominoplasties in patients who underwent conversion to RYGB for GERD (28 patients, 8.4%) compared to inadequate weight loss (13 patients, 4.3%), P-value 0.037. Conversely, there were statistically significantly more hiatal hernias present in patients with inadequate weight loss as an indication for conversion (55 patients, 18.3%) compared to patients with GERD as an indication for conversion (17 patients, 5.1%), P-value < 0.001.

Conclusion

Our data supports the hypothesis that abdominoplasty surgery alone can increase the development of GERD in post-SG patients, often requiring conversion to RYGB.
IBC Oxford University Oral Abstract 5 - The role of fundoplication sleeve gastrectomy in obesity surgery: a systematic review and meta-analysis
Authors: Lopes D Fernado , Dias A Silva , Amorim-Cruz F , Bouça-Machado R , Resende F , Costa-Pinho A , Preto J , Carneiro S , da Costa E Lima , Pinto B Sousa , Sousa H Santos
Published: February 2025

Introduction

Fundoplication Sleeve Gastrectomy (FSG) is a new bariatric procedure that was proposed as an alternative to the standard sleeve gastrectomy (SG), which is associated with an increase in the incidence and prevalence of gastroesophageal reflux disease (GERD). This systematic review and meta-analysis aimed to assess the current evidence on this new surgical procedure in terms of weight loss, prevalence of GERD after the bariatric procedure and postoperative complications.

Methods

Following the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Review and Meta-analysis (PRISMA) recommendations, we conducted a systematic review and meta-analysis by searching three databases (PubMed, Scopus, and Web of Science). We performed a meta- analysis of relative risks to compare FSG and SG for postoperative prevalence of GERD and postoperative complications. Heterogeneity was assessed using I2 statistic.

Results

Fourteen articles were included in the qualitative synthesis and 3 in the quantitative synthesis (meta-analysis). Weight loss was assessed through percentage of excess weight loss (%EWL) in 9 studies from the qualitative synthesis and %EWL at 12 months follow-up ranged between 58 ± 23% and 83.3 ± 28.5%. The comparison between FSG and SG showed no statistically significant difference (RR = 0.36; 95%c.i. [0.13; 1.03]; P = 0.056) regarding postoperative prevalence of GERD. However, a trend indicating a lower risk of postoperative GERD after FSG was observed. Regarding postoperative complications, there was no significant difference between the two approaches (RR = 1.53; 95%c.i. [0.67; 3.49]; P = 0.314).

Conclusion

Our systematic review and meta-analysis reported encouraging results concerning weight loss, GERD symptoms after surgery and postoperative complications after FSG, however, current evidence is still limited. Additional standardized studies, comparing FSG to other bariatric procedures and directly comparing different types of FSG are needed.
IBC Oxford University Oral Abstract 6 - Definition and predictors of insufficient weight loss after bariatric surgery: a retrospective cohort study
Authors: Cruz F Amorim , Sousa H Santos , Nogueiro J , Vaz S , Vieira Sousa J P , Lemos J , Peleteiro B , Resende F , Pinho A Costa , Preto J , Freitas P , Carneiro S , da Costa E Lima
Published: February 2025

Introduction

After bariatric surgery, insufficient weight loss (IWL)—a failure to achieve sufficient weight loss—is the main reason for undergoing a second revisional bariatric surgery. Not only is a standardized definition for IWL missing, but its pre-, peri, and postoperative predictor factors remain unclear. This study aims to assess rates of IWL two years after bariatric surgery, applying 4 definitions; and identify predictors of IWL to improve patient counselling regarding their prevention and optimize intraoperative bariatric procedures.

Methods

We conducted a single-centre retrospective cohort study with 1056 consecutive patients submitted to bariatric surgery between 2019 and 2021. Regarding IWL, the following four definitions were applied: (1) body mass index (BMI) higher than 35 kg/m2 at 24 months; (2) percentage of excess weight loss (%EWL) of less than 50% at 18 months; (3) percentage of total weight loss (%TWL) of less than 20% at 24 months; (4) percentage of alterable weight loss (%AWL) of less than 35% at 24 months. All participants were followed for at least 2 years. Univariate and multivariate analyses were performed using logistic regression to compute the odds ratio (OR) and the 95% confidence intervals (95%c.i.).

Results

A total of 1056 patients were included, with a mean age of 45.8 (±10.3) years, of which 82.9% were female. Significant insufficient weight loss rates ranged from 6 to 14% depending on the definition, being the %EWL the definition with the highest proportion of patients with IWL. Considering %TWL as the definition for IWL, patients with IWL had significantly longer hospital time response (adjusted odds ratio: 1.03, 95% c.i.: 1.02–1.05) and were more submitted to sleeve gastrectomy (adjusted odds ratio: 2.51, 95% c.i.: 1.46–4.30). Male gender was associated with IWL only considering the first definition (BMI > 35 kg/m2) (adjusted odds ratio: 3.55, 95% c.i.: 2.36–5.33) and the second definition (%EWL) (adjusted odds ratio: 4.43, 95% c.i.: 2.80–7.02). The multivariate analysis showed that a longer hospital response and sleeve gastrectomy were independent predictors of IWL after bariatric surgery, regardless of the definition.

Conclusion

The predictors of insufficient weight loss varied depending on the definition applied. However, regardless of the IWL’s definition, a longer hospital response and sleeve gastrectomy were independent predictors of insufficient weight loss after bariatric surgery.
IBC Oxford University Oral Abstract 9 - Reversal of SADI bypass to normal anatomy
Authors: Andraos Y , Andraos M
Published: February 2025

Background

Single Anastomosis Duodeno-Ileal Bypass with Sleeve Gastrectomy (SADI-S) or with Gastric Sleeve Plication (SADI-GSP) are technically highly demanding hypo-absorbtive bariatric procedures generally indicated in high BMI patients (>50 kg/m2) with or without a metabolic syndrome. Data from the literature prove the procedure to be safe and effective. However, hypoproteinemia is a major concern as a severe long-term complication that may need re-operation to elongate the common loop or to reverse it to normal anatomy.

Methods

Among 1,204 patients who underwent bariatric procedures at our institution from May 3rd 2016 till February 14th 2024, 303 patients underwent SADI-S or SADI-GSP as primary procedure, or revisional procedure after sleeve gastrectomy, or gastric sleeve plication (GSP). Early and late post-operative nutritional complications were analysed. Albumin level under normal value at one year was noticed in 21 patients (6.9%).

Results

Hypoalbuminemia was corrected in 8 patients (38.09%) using medical management, parenteral nutrition and IV albumin. 13 others were re-operated at 5 years. 6 of them were reversed to normal anatomy (The common loop length was initially performed at 2.5 m from the ileocaecal junction and at 3 m from the ileocaecal junction in 2 cases.) One patient among the 6 presented with peritonitis on day 2 without evidence of anastomotic leak (second look, washing, and drainage were performed along with antibiotics). 7 patients underwent lengthening of the common loop. The choice of technique was guided by local anatomical changes (adhesions, bleeding, and tension), the surgeon’s conviction, and the patient’s preference. Both techniques achieve normal level of albumin at 3 months.

Conclusion

Our data, coherently with the literature, confirms that SADI-S and SADI-GSP are safe and effective procedures with acceptable complications rate. The hypoproteinemia rate was related to lack of data about gastric sleeve capacity and common loop length. Currently, 3.5 m is the adopted length at our institution with wide sleeve gastrectomy. More data is needed to draw definitive conclusions.