bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
What role can batteries play in a low-carbon transition?
Authors: Perdu Fabien
Published: September 2024

Several aspects of the “energy transition”, in particular the development of the electricity sector and the electrification of transport, rely on energy storage and in particular batteries.

After describing the construction and operation of a lithium-ion battery, we analyse the expected progress and environmental impact of these batteries in the event of widespread deployment. Finally, we attempt to better identify the uses for which batteries are really relevant and those for which complementary solutions need to be found.
Umfrage zum Einsatz von Nasentamponaden in der sinunasalen Chirurgie
Authors: Weber Rainer K. , Deitmer Thomas , Löhler Jan , Aletsee Christoph , Baumann Ingo , Betz Christian , Beule Achim , Böscke Robert , Dietz Andreas , Harnischmacher Vanessa , Haubner Frank , Heppt Werner , Hoffmann Anna Sophie , Hoffmann Thomas K. , Hosemann Werner , Kühnel Thomas , Laudien Martin , Olzowy Bernhard , Seibert Kim-Victoria , Sommer Fabian , Verse Thomas , Wiegand Susanne , Hildenbrand Tanja
Published: September 2024

Hintergrund Die Ambulantisierung rhinochirurgischer Eingriffe wird derzeit intensiv diskutiert und insbesondere von politischer Seite stark propagiert. Viele Fragen zur Stratifizierung in ambulante oder stationäre Durchführung sind unklar. Insbesondere ist das Vorgehen bei Anwendung von Nasentamponaden bisher nicht ausreichend diskutiert.

Material und Methoden Deutschlandweite Umfrage unter niedergelassenen und in Kliniken tätigen Hals-, Nasen-, Ohrenärzten zur Verwendung von Nasentamponaden in der Rhinochirurgie und zum Auftreten von Komplikationen in Zusammenhang mit einer Tamponade.

Ergebnisse 85,6% der Antwortenden verwenden eine Nasentamponade zumindest manchmal bei der Chirurgie von Septum und Nasenmuscheln/lateraler Nasenwand, 44,2% grundsätzlich. Bei der Nasennebenhöhlenchirurgie sind dies 94,1% bzw. 49% der Antwortenden. Überwiegend wurde die Anwendung von sich nicht auflösenden Tamponaden angegeben. Die am häufigsten beobachteten Komplikationen waren eine Blutung unter liegender Nasentamponade (>50% der Antwortenden) und eine Dislokation nach dorsal (24% der Antwortenden), die ein notfallmäßiges Eingreifen erforderte. Eine Todesfolge wurde bei 5 Patienten beschrieben. Ein Patient erlitt eine dauerhafte Hirnschädigung nach Hypoxie.

Schlussfolgerungen Die Anwendung einer sich nicht auflösenden Nasentamponade mit Okklusion der Nasenhaupthöhle kann zu einer relevanten Gefährdung der Patienten führen, die ein notfallmäßiges Eingreifen erforderlich macht und deshalb die stationäre Überwachung erfordert.
Personalstruktur und Berufsperspektive von Notärzt*innen in ländlichen und städtischen Räumen – eine umfragebasierte Erhebung
Authors: Feth Maximilian , Eimer Christine , Rosskopf Florian , Grübl Tobias , Häske David , Kulla Martin , Bernhard Michael , Reifferscheid Florian , Hossfeld Björn
Published: September 2024

Die prähospitale Notfallversorgung erfährt seit Jahren zunehmende
Einsatzbelastungen. Der Einfluss des demografischen Wandels auf regionalspezifische
Unterschiede von Notärzt*innen sowie deren Motivation zum Verbleib im aktiven
Notarztdienst ist unklar.

Deutschlandweite Umfrage unter Notärzt*innen zu demografischen und weiteren, für
den Notarztdienst relevanten Angaben.

Der Anteil an Notärzt*innen ≥ 60 Jahren (10,1 vs. 4,5% [städtisch], p < 0,001)
sowie derer, die angaben, binnen 5 Jahren den Notarztdienst beenden zu wollen (19,8
vs. 14,7%, p = 0,006), war in ländlichen Rettungsdienstbereichen höher. Die
multivariate Analyse ergab eine angemessene Vergütung (p = 0,002) und eine
Zufriedenheit mit den Arbeitsbedingungen (p < 0,001) als Motivatoren für einen
längeren Verbleib als aktive Notärzt*innen.

Unterschiede zwischen Notärzt*innen im ländlichen und städtischen Raum sind bei
der Personalbindung zu berücksichtigen. Als mögliche Steuerungsinstrumente konnten
Vergütung und Zufriedenheit mit den Berufsbedingungen identifiziert werden, um einem
absehbaren Notarztmangel zu begegnen.
Vascular Pathogenesis in Acute and Long COVID: Current Insights and Therapeutic Outlook
Authors: Kruger Arneaux , Joffe David , Lloyd-Jones Graham , Khan Muhammed Asad , Šalamon Špela , Laubscher Gert J. , Putrino David , Kell Douglas B. , Pretorius Etheresia
Published: September 2024

Long coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19)—a postacute consequence of severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 infection—manifests with a broad spectrum of relapsing and remitting or persistent symptoms as well as varied levels of organ damage, which may be asymptomatic or present as acute events such as heart attacks or strokes and recurrent infections, hinting at complex underlying pathogenic mechanisms. Central to these symptoms is vascular dysfunction rooted in thrombotic endothelialitis. We review the scientific evidence that widespread endothelial dysfunction (ED) leads to chronic symptomatology. We briefly examine the molecular pathways contributing to endothelial pathology and provide a detailed analysis of how these cellular processes underpin the clinical picture. Noninvasive diagnostic techniques, such as flow-mediated dilation and peripheral arterial tonometry, are evaluated for their utility in identifying ED. We then explore mechanistic, cellular-targeted therapeutic interventions for their potential in treating ED. Overall, we emphasize the critical role of cellular health in managing Long COVID and highlight the need for early intervention to prevent long-term vascular and cellular dysfunction.
Impact of Digital Health Interventions on Birth Equity: A Review
Authors: Malloy Shannon
Published: September 2024

The rise in smartphone utilization and technology uptake has popularized digital health interventions as a means of supporting healthy pregnancies and optimizing maternal and child health. Digital health interventions include several modalities, such as telemedicine, remote patient monitoring, smartphone applications, web-based interventions, wearables, and health information technology. However, the impact of these interventions on improving maternal and infant health outcomes by race and socioeconomic status to achieve birth equity is unknown. This review summarizes current literature on the impact of digital health interventions on the outcomes of communities of color and lower socioeconomic status in the United States. We demonstrate there is emerging evidence of the impact of digital health interventions on maternal health outcomes, particularly for telemedicine, but evidence specifically focused on assessing outcomes by race and ethnicity and for other modalities, like mHealth apps or wearables, is limited. Digital health interventions may play a part in birth equity initiatives, but should not be considered a standalone solution, and instead should be integrated into other existing efforts to achieve birth equity, like diversifying the clinician workforce, expanding access to high-quality prenatal and postpartum care, or delivering respectful maternity care.
The Role of Helmet Therapy in Craniosynostosis: A Systematic Review
Authors: Suleman Fatima , Sohail Ayesha , Javed Gohar , Samar Syeda Sana
Published: September 2024

The aim of this study was to determine the impact of helmet therapy (HT) as a treatment for craniosynostosis, with a focus on the outcomes of skull morphology, reoperation rate, complications of HT, and quality of life of patients who receive it. A systematic literature review was conducted following the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses (PRISMA) guidelines. The review utilized the PICO format: Does HT following strip craniectomy (SC) improve outcomes (outcome) compared to SC alone (comparison) in patients undergoing craniosynostosis correction (intervention)? Searches were performed from January 1, 2000 to December 31, 2022, using PubMed, Cochrane Library, and Ovid Medline databases. Study quality was evaluated using the National Heart, Lung, and Blood Institute (NHLBI) quality assessment scale. Fourteen studies meeting the inclusion criteria were identified. Among these, 438 patients underwent SC-HT, while 104 patients underwent SC without HT. The preoperative cephalic indices for sagittal craniosynostosis in the HT and non-HT groups were 66.8 and 67.8, respectively, which improved postoperatively to 75 and 76.2, respectively. Limited long-term follow-up hindered a definitive assessment of reoperation rates. Complication rates related to HT were low at approximately 2.9%, primarily consisting of skin irritation. Parental satisfaction was high, correlating with a strong compliance rate. Existing literature does not demonstrate a clear superiority between SC with or without HT for treating nonsyndromic sagittal craniosynostosis. Outcomes appear comparable, but evidence is constrained by the predominance of single-center retrospective studies with limited methodological rigor. There is a pressing need for international multicenter trials to furnish more robust and generalizable findings.
Thyroxine Replacement Therapy during Ramadan Fasting: A Narrative Review
Authors: Aljaberi Asma , Alamoudi Reem , Elsherbiny Tamer M. , Hafidh Khadija , Raza Syed Abbas , Beshyah Salem A.
Published: September 2024

Introduction Ramadan fasting-induced changes in eating and sleeping patterns pose a risk of influencing thyroid hormone levels. There is a recognition of the potential impact of fasting and feasting on levothyroxine (L-T4) absorption.

Materials and Methods A narrative, nonsystematic literature review from two major medical online databases (PubMed and Google Scholar) from their inception to the search day (February 22, 2024). A relevant combined search term was used. The retrieved literature is narrated in a concise account.

Results There is a relationship between metabolism and thyroid-stimulating hormone (TSH). This relationship contributes to transient metabolic disturbances that influence the pharmacodynamics and pharmacokinetics of various drugs, adding complexity to the management of hypothyroidism during Ramadan fasting. Several observational studies have studied the changes in thyroid function levels during unmodified L-T4 regimens. Experimental trials explored the impact on body weight, well-being, and thyroid functions when the timing of L-T4 administration changes. Findings are far from homogeneous due to different study protocols. A recent meta-analysis demonstrated a significant post-Ramadan increase in TSH levels among euthyroid patients. L-T4 timing points, encompassing pre-Iftar, post-Iftar, and pre-Suhoor, are associated with elevated TSH levels after Ramadan fasting. The emphasis on individualized L-T4 regimens during Ramadan fasting is underscored, with recommendations for patients to refrain from food for at least 3 hours before and 30 minutes after L-T4 intake to ensure optimal compliance by most experts. The association between adherence to L-T4 during Ramadan fasting and maintaining euthyroid status is highlighted, encouraging patients to follow prescribed regimens diligently. Modified dosing frequencies, such as weekly regimens, exhibit promising results, especially in patients grappling with compliance issues. Proactive consultations with physicians before Ramadan are needed to review the latest thyroid function test and make possible dose adjustments.

Conclusion Managing hypothyroidism during Ramadan necessitates an understanding of medication timing, food-drug interactions, and prior regimens. Adherence, facilitated by flexibility, plays a critical role in achieving euthyroid status.
Self-organization in computation and chemistry: Return to AlChemy
Authors: Mathis Cole , Patel Devansh , Weimer Westley , Forrest Stephanie
Published: September 2024

How do complex adaptive systems, such as life, emerge from simple constituent parts? In the 1990s, Walter Fontana and Leo Buss proposed a novel modeling approach to this question, based on a formal model of computation known as the λ calculus. The model demonstrated how simple rules, embedded in a combinatorially large space of possibilities, could yield complex, dynamically stable organizations, reminiscent of biochemical reaction networks. Here, we revisit this classic model, called AlChemy, which has been understudied over the past 30 years. We reproduce the original results and study the robustness of those results using the greater computing resources available today. Our analysis reveals several unanticipated features of the system, demonstrating a surprising mix of dynamical robustness and fragility. Specifically, we find that complex, stable organizations emerge more frequently than previously expected, that these organizations are robust against collapse into trivial fixed points, but that these stable organizations cannot be easily combined into higher order entities. We also study the role played by the random generators used in the model, characterizing the initial distribution of objects produced by two random expression generators, and their consequences on the results. Finally, we provide a constructive proof that shows how an extension of the model, based on the typed λ calculus, could simulate transitions between arbitrary states in any possible chemical reaction network, thus indicating a concrete connection between AlChemy and chemical reaction networks. We conclude with a discussion of possible applications of AlChemy to self-organization in modern programming languages and quantitative approaches to the origin of life.
X-ray sources for in situ wavelength calibration of x-ray imaging crystal spectrometers
Authors: Shah K. , Delgado-Aparicio L. , Kraus B. F. , Ono M. , Gao L. , Umbach B. , Perkins L. , Pablant N. , Hill K. W. , Bitter M. , Teall S. , Drake R. , Schmidt G.
Published: September 2024

X-ray sources for a range of wavelengths are being considered for in situ calibration of X-ray Imaging Crystal Spectrometers (XICSs) and for monitoring line shifts due to changes in the crystal temperature, which can vary during experimental operation over a day [A. Ince-Cushman et al., Rev. Sci. Instrum. 79, 10E302 (2008), L. Delgado-Aparicio et al., Plasma Phys. Control. Fusion 55, 125011 (2013)]. Such crystal temperature dependent shifts, if not accounted for, could be erroneously interpreted as Doppler shifts leading to errors in plasma flow-velocity measurements. The x-ray sources encompass characteristic x-ray lines falling within the wavelength range of 0.9–4.0 Å, relevant for the XICSs on present and future fusion devices. Several technological challenges associated with the development of x-ray sources for in situ calibration are identified and are being addressed in the design of multiple x-ray tubes, which will be installed inside the spectrometer housing of the XICS for the JT-60SA tokamak. These x-ray sources will be especially useful for in situ calibration between plasma discharges. In this paper, laboratory experiments are described that were conducted with a Cu x-ray source, a heated quartz (102) crystal, and a pixelated Pilatus detector to measure the temperature dependent shifts of the Cu Kα1 and Kα2 lines at 1.5405 and 1.5443 Å, respectively, and to evaluate the 2d-lattice constant for the Bragg reflecting crystal planes as a function of temperature, which, in the case of in situ wavelength calibration, would have to be used for numerical analysis of the x-ray spectra from the plasma.
Angle-resolved polarization Raman spectroscopy of β-Ga2O3 and their application in sensitive solar-blind photodetection
Authors: Li Lei , Yan Sihan , Ma Wanyu , Zhang Jia-Han , Zhang Shaohui , Jiang Mingming , Gao Lingfeng , Tang Weihua , Liu Zeng
Published: September 2024

Polarization-sensitive photodetection has promising prospects for civilian and military applications based on anisotropic semiconductors. However, it is greatly limited due to the lack of valid materials as well as the terrible linear dichroism ratio. In this Letter, a metal–oxide–semiconductor β-Ga2O3 with strong anisotropic property is proposed for highly efficient polarizing detection, which can potentially overcome these limitations. Angle-resolved polarization Raman spectroscopy was performed to confirm excellent anisotropic phonon vibration. Unique narrow solar-blind polarization-sensitive photo-absorption (240–270 nm) can be observed, which can be attributed to the natural anisotropy, referring in particular to the polarization-resolved absorption in the surround of the bandgap of β-Ga2O3. Benefiting from the structural anisotropy, the polarization-sensitive photodetector exhibits an excellent linear dichroic ratio of ∼1.8. Moreover, obvious color change is observed under different polarized angles, providing great potential in polarization imaging. With these advantages, we anticipated that this research will pave avenues for the fabrication of polarization-sensitive solar-blind UV photodetectors.
Evolution of local relaxed states and the modeling of viscoelastic fluids
Authors: Alrashdi Muhanna Ali H , Giusteri Giulio Giuseppe
Published: September 2024

We introduce a class of continuum mechanical models aimed at describing the behavior of viscoelastic fluids by incorporating concepts originated in the theory of solid plasticity. Within this class, even a simple model with constant material parameters is able to qualitatively reproduce a number of experimental observations in both simple shear and extensional flows, including linear viscoelastic properties, the rate dependence of steady-state material functions, the stress overshoot in incipient shear flows, and the difference in shear and extensional rheological curves. Furthermore, by allowing the relaxation time of the model to depend on the total strain, we can reproduce some experimental observations of the non-attainability of steady flows in uniaxial extension and link this to a concept of polymeric jamming or effective solidification. Remarkably, this modeling framework helps in understanding the interplay between different mechanisms that may compete in determining the rheology of non-Newtonian materials.
Defying the D2-law in fuel droplet combustion under gravity
Authors: Chen You-An , Chiang Chih-Hsiang , Yang Chao-Yi , Yang Shou-Yin , Wei Hsien-Hung
Published: September 2024

We show both experimentally and theoretically for the first time that the widely used D2-law for describing the shrinking kinetics of a vaporizing droplet is not the true law for single burning droplets under the influence of gravity. Experimentally, the instantaneous diameter D for such a droplet is identified to obey a new kinetic law: Dn decreases linearly with time t, with the exponent n=2.53±0.30−2.69±0.14 for a variety of common liquid fuels such as alkanes and alcohols of low and high boiling hydrocarbons. Theoretically, we develop a phenomenological theory to show n=8/3≈2.67 well capturing the experimental values. The burning rate constant in this new D8/3-law no longer behaves like the thermal diffusivity α of the gas phase but turns into α3ℓ−7/3/g due to the additional inherent fluid-property-determined buoyancy length ℓ under the influence of the gravitational acceleration g. This non-square power law is purely transport determined. It is a consequence of simultaneous momentum, heat, and mass transfer resulted from buoyant convection setup by the blazing flame around the droplet, insensitive to combustion chemistry and detailed reaction kinetics. This study provides not only renewed insights into the multifaceted droplet combustion phenomenon but also possibly new paradigms for a better understanding or characterization of actual fuel droplet combustion processes in normal gravity environments.
Effect of hills on wind turbine flow and power efficiency: A large-eddy simulation study
Authors: Revaz Tristan , Porté-Agel Fernando
Published: September 2024

This study investigates the influence of topography on wind turbine flow and power efficiency. Specifically, a standalone wind turbine is positioned at the top of idealized two-dimensional hills, and the effects of hill geometry and turbine position are systematically investigated. Various parameters are studied, including hill slope, distance between the leeward side of the hill and the turbine, turbine hub height, and hill size. Overall, it is observed that the turbine wake is consistently stronger in the hill cases compared to the flat case. This is attributed to two characteristics of hill flows: (1) the negative streamwise velocity gradients on the leeward side of the hills and (2) the reduced turbulence above the hilltops and hill wake regions. In addition, it is observed that the turbine induction factor is consistently increased in the hill cases compared to the flat case, while the turbine power and thrust coefficients are reduced. In practice, this means that turbines on the hills produce less power output than those on flat terrain for an equivalent wind potential, with the potential decrease in power output reaching more than 20% for certain cases. Altogether, the results offer new insights into the effect of topography on turbine power efficiency. In addition, the study identifies clear relationships between the turbine power coefficient, the induction factor, the overall maximum deficit, and the base flow pressure gradient. These relationships could potentially be used to predict the change in power efficiency based on the wake flow or the base flow. Overall, the results show a clear connection between the turbine power efficiency and the turbine wake development.
Fingerprints of ordered self-assembled structures in the liquid phase of a hard-core, square-shoulder system
Authors: Wassermair Michael , Kahl Gerhard , Roth Roland , Archer Andrew J.
Published: September 2024

We investigate the phase ordering (pattern formation) of systems of two-dimensional core–shell particles using Monte Carlo (MC) computer simulations and classical density functional theory (DFT). The particles interact via a pair potential having a hard core and a repulsive square shoulder. Our simulations show that on cooling, the liquid state structure becomes increasingly characterized by long wavelength density modulations and on further cooling forms a variety of other phases, including clustered, striped, and other patterned phases. In DFT, the hard core part of the potential is treated using either fundamental measure theory or a simple local density approximation, whereas the soft shoulder is treated using the random phase approximation. The different DFTs are benchmarked using large-scale grand-canonical-MC and Gibbs-ensemble-MC simulations, demonstrating their predictive capabilities and shortcomings. We find that having the liquid state static structure factor S(k) for wavenumber k is sufficient to identify the Fourier modes governing both the liquid and solid phases. This allows us to identify from easier-to-obtain liquid state data the wavenumbers relevant to the periodic phases and to predict roughly where in the phase diagram these patterned phases arise.
Molecular modeling and simulation of organic electrolyte solutions for lithium ion batteries
Authors: Zittlau Pascal , Mross Sarah , Gond Dominik , Kohns Maximilian
Published: September 2024

Multi-criteria optimization is used for developing molecular models for ethylene carbonate (EC) and propylene carbonate (PC), organic solvents commonly used in Li-ion batteries. The molecular geometry and partial charges of the solvents are obtained from quantum mechanical calculations. Using a novel optimization strategy that combines systematic variations of the Lennard-Jones parameters with a reduced units approach, the models are fitted to experimental data on the liquid density, vapor pressure, relative permittivity, and self-diffusion coefficient. Since no experimental data for the self-diffusion coefficient of pure EC were available in the literature, they are measured in this work using a gradient-based nuclear magnetic resonance technique. For all pure component properties, excellent agreement between experiment and simulation is obtained. Moreover, the predictive capabilities of the new solvent models are assessed by comparison to experimental data for the liquid density and relative permittivity of mixtures of EC and PC. In addition, molecular models for the anions PF6−, BF4−, and ClO4− in solutions of their lithium electrolytes in PC are developed using experimental data on the solution densities. Finally, the self-diffusion coefficients of LiPF6 in PC and in aqueous solution are predicted and compared, showing that diffusion is much slower in the organic solution due to the formation of larger solvent shells around the ions. Furthermore, an analysis of the radial distribution functions in these solutions suggests that the ions have much less impact on the structure of the solvent PC than on water.
Utilisation of Medicare chronic disease management item numbers for people with cancer in Queensland, Australia
Authors: Rahman Md Mijanur , Jahan Shafkat , Koczwara Bogda , Iddawela Mahesh , Chan Raymond J. , Thornton-Benko Elysia , Garvey Gail , Hart Nicolas H.
Published: September 2024

Objective Chronic disease is common in people with cancer. However, the utilisation of Medicare chronic disease management (CDM) items for cancer patients in Australia remains unexplored. This study investigates Medicare CDM item numbers relating to people with cancer, including general practitioner (GP) and allied health CDM item numbers, and any associated sociodemographic factors. Methods Data from 86,571 people with cancer registered in the Queensland Cancer Registry between July 2011 and June 2015 and the CDM items codes from Medical Benefits Scheme records until 2018 were analysed. This includes utilisation of General Practitioner Management Plans (GPMP) and Team Care Arrangements (TCAs), reviews of GPMPs and TCAs, and engagement with allied health services until June 2018 following a cancer diagnosis. Results In total 47,615 (55%) and 43,286 (50%) people with cancer initiated at least one GPMP and TCA, respectively, with 31,165 (36%) receiving at least one review, and 36,359 (42%) utilising at least one allied health service (e.g. physiotherapists (41%), podiatrists (27%), exercise physiologists (19%)) with variations by cancer type. While people with cancer from disadvantaged socioeconomic groups had a higher likelihood of receiving GPMP (odds ratio, OR: 1.16, 95% confidence interval, CI: 1.11–1.21) and TCA (OR: 1.12, 95% CI: 1.07–1.16), they were less likely to utilise allied health services (OR: 0.89, 95% CI: 0.85–0.93). People with cancer living in remote areas were less likely to receive TCA (OR: 0.84, 95% CI: 0.80–0.88) or utilise allied health services (OR: 0.63, 95% CI: 0.60–0.67) than those in metropolitan areas. Conclusion Our findings underscore the need to examine uptake and implementation patterns of CDM items, especially in relation to clinical, social, and service provider-level factors and related potential barriers. Further exploration is warranted to understand whether people with cancer’s care needs are being met and ways to optimise the supportive care of these people.
Modulation of diabetes-related retinal pathophysiology by PTX3
Authors: Pathak Varun , Bertelli Pietro M. , Pedrini Edoardo , Harkin Kevin , Peixoto Elisa , Allen Lynsey-Dawn , Mcloughlin Kiran , Chavda Natasha D. , Hamill Kevin J. , Guduric-Fuchs Jasenka , Inforzato Antonio , Bottazzi Barbara , Stitt Alan W. , Medina Reinhold J.
Published: September 2024

Diabetic retinopathy (DR) is a common complication of diabetes characterized by vascular pathology and neuroinflammation. Pentraxin 3 (PTX3) is a soluble pattern recognition molecule that functions at the crossroads between innate immunity, inflammation, and tissue remodeling. DR is known to involve inflammatory pathways, although the potential relevance of PTX3 has not been explored. We found that PTX3 protein levels increased in the retina of diabetic mice. Similarly, evaluation of a publicly available transcriptomic human dataset revealed increased PTX3 expression in DR with diabetic macular edema and proliferative retinopathy, when compared to nondiabetic retinas or diabetic retinas without complications. To further understand the role of PTX3 within DR, we employed the streptozotocin-induced diabetes model in PTX3 knockout mice (PTX3
KO
), which were followed up for 9 mo to evaluate hallmarks of disease progression. In diabetic PTX3
KO
mice, we observed decreased reactive gliosis, diminished microglia activation, and reduced vasodegeneration, when compared to diabetic PTX3 wild-type littermates. The decrease in DR–associated pathological features in PTX3
KO
retinas translated into preserved visual function, as evidenced by improved optokinetic response, restored b-wave amplitude in electroretinograms, and attenuated neurodegeneration. We showed that PTX3 induced an inflammatory phenotype in human retinal macroglia, characterized by GFAP upregulation and increased secretion of IL6 and PAI-1. We confirmed that PTX3 was required for TNF-α-induced reactive gliosis, as PTX3
KO
retinal explants did not up-regulate GFAP in response to TNF-α. This study reveals a unique role for PTX3 as an enhancer of sterile inflammation in DR, which drives pathogenesis and ultimately visual impairment.
Partitioning the drivers of Antarctic glacier mass balance (2003–2020) using satellite observations and a regional climate model
Authors: Kim Byeong-Hoon , Seo Ki-Weon , Lee Choon-Ki , Kim Jae-Seung , Lee Won Sang , Jin Emilia Kyung , van den Broeke Michiel
Published: September 2024

We investigate the mass changes of Antarctic glaciers from 2003 to 2020, partitioning them into the contributions of surface mass balance (SMB) and ice discharge, using high-resolution ice mass change estimates derived from the combination of two different types of satellite observations (gravimetry and altimetry) and outputs from a regional climate model. Our analysis indicates that changes in ice discharge have played a dominant role in ongoing ice mass trends and their accelerations, especially in glaciers near the Amundsen and Bellingshausen Seas in West Antarctica. In particular, mass losses of the Thwaites and Pine Island Glaciers have been mostly (>90%) controlled by ice discharge, while the contribution of SMB has been relatively minor. In East Antarctica, SMB accounts for significant portions (>50%) of ice mass imbalances of glaciers in e.g., Dronning Maud Land and Wilkes Land. Ice discharge has also played a notable role in overall mass gain in the region. While our ice discharge estimates agree well with previous estimates from satellite imagery in West Antarctica, notable differences are found in glaciers of East Antarctica and the Antarctic Peninsula. This highlights the need for more observations and improved numerical models to refine these estimates.
Aligned colloidal clusters in an alternating rotating magnetic field elucidated by magnetic relaxation
Authors: Spatafora-Salazar Aldo , Lobmeyer Dana M. , Cunha Lucas H. P. , Joshi Kedar , Biswal Sibani Lisa
Published: September 2024

Precise control at the colloidal scale is one of the most promising bottom–up approaches to fabricating new materials and devices with tunable and precisely engineered properties. Magnetically driven colloidal assembly offers great versatility because of the ability to externally tune particle–particle interactions and to construct a host of particle arrangements. However, despite previous efforts to probe the parameter space, global orientational control in conjunction with two-dimensional microstructural control has remained out of reach. Furthermore, the magnetic relaxation time of superparamagnetic beads has been largely overlooked despite being a key feature of the magnetic response. Here, we take advantage of the magnetic relaxation time of superparamagnetic beads in an alternating rotating magnetic field and show how harnessing this feature facilitates the formation of oriented clusters. The orientation of these clusters can be controlled by field parameters. Using experiments, simulations, and theory, we probe a two-particle system (dimer) under this alternating rotating magnetic field and use its dynamics to provide insights into the collective response that forms clusters. We find that the type of field has significant implications for the dipolar interactions between the colloids because of the nonnegligible magnetic relaxation. Moreover, we find that the competing time scales of the magnetic relaxation and the alternating field generate an anisotropic interaction potential that drives cluster alignment. By exploiting the magnetic relaxation time of magnetic systems, we can tailor new types of interparticle interactions, thereby expanding the capabilities of colloidal assembly in engineering unique materials and devices.
An iron-rich subset of macrophages promotes tumor growth through a Bach1-Ednrb axis
Authors: Folkert Ian W. , Molina Arocho William A. , To Tsun Ki Jerrick , Devalaraja Samir , Molina Irene S. , Shoush Jason , Mohei Hesham , Zhai Li , Akhtar Md Naushad , Kochat Veena , Arslan Emre , Lazar Alexander J. , Wani Khalida , Israel William P. , Zhang Zhan , Chaluvadi Venkata S. , Norgard Robert J. , Liu Ying , Fuller Ashley M. , Dang Mai T. , Roses Robert E. , Karakousis Giorgos C. , Miura John T. , Fraker Douglas L. , Eisinger-Mathason T.S. Karin , Simon M. Celeste , Weber Kristy , Tan Kai , Fan Yi , Rai Kunal , Haldar Malay
Published: September 2024

We define a subset of macrophages in the tumor microenvironment characterized by high intracellular iron and enrichment of heme and iron metabolism genes. These iron-rich tumor-associated macrophages (iTAMs) supported angiogenesis and immunosuppression in the tumor microenvironment and were conserved between mice and humans. iTAMs comprise two additional subsets based on gene expression profile and location—perivascular (pviTAM) and stromal (stiTAM). We identified the endothelin receptor type B (Ednrb) as a specific marker of iTAMs and found myeloid-specific deletion of Ednrb to reduce tumor growth and vascular density. Further studies identified the transcription factor Bach1 as a repressor of the iTAM transcriptional program, including Ednrb expression. Heme is a known inhibitor of Bach1, and, correspondingly, heme exposure induced Ednrb and iTAM signature genes in macrophages. Thus, iTAMs are a distinct macrophage subset regulated by the transcription factor Bach1 and characterized by Ednrb-mediated immunosuppressive and angiogenic functions.
Observations of Fast Radio Variations in Microquasars by FAST
Authors: Wang 王 Wei 伟
Published: September 2024

Microquasars are the compact objects generally including accreting black holes which produce relativistic jets. The physical mechanisms of jet launching, collimation, and acceleration are poorly understood. Microquasars show strong variability in multi-wavelength observations. In x-rays, the sources show the fast variation features down to millisecond time scales, with the prominent quasiperiodic oscillations (QPOs) around 0.1 Hz–tens of Hz in light curves, however, physical origin of QPOs is still uncertain. FAST as the largest radio telescope provides the opportunity to study fast variability of both radio flux and polarization in microquasars. In the FAST observations from 2020–2022, we reported the first evidence of radio subsecond quasi-periodic oscillations of GRS 1915+105, providing the direct link between QPOs and the dynamics of relativistic jets. These QPOs with the centroid frequency around 5 Hz are transient, accompanied with strong evolution of the spectral index. Combined with multiwavelength observations, we discuss the possible physical models to produce radio QPOs in BH systems: the helical motion of jet knots or precession of the jet base. In near future, high time resolution radio monitoring of microquasars based on FAST is expected to discover more new phenomena in black hole systems, which will be important for understanding the physics in strong gravity.
Measuring the center and the dimension of our Galaxy using globular clusters
Authors: Fabjan Dunja
Published: September 2024

Historical measurements, such as the measurement of the size of our Galaxy and distance to its center, are based on relatively simple assumptions that allow high-school students and undergraduate college students to explore and replicate the basic analysis of astronomical data. Here, I present a practical data analysis exercise that was developed to select Slovenian participants to the International Olympiad on Astronomy and Astrophysics (IOAA). The exercise guides students to discover the globular cluster distribution within our Galaxy, use basic knowledge of spherical astronomy and coordinate transformation, explore the night sky and develop basic skills for the analysis of astronomical data.
Induction heating boosts water splitting on iron–coated nickel foam
Authors: Li Tinghua , Kang Shuai , Li Shoubo , Yang Wendi , Lei Wenbo , Lu Wenqiang , Li Zhiqiang , Zhu Donglai , Zhang Xia , Lei Ping
Published: September 2024

Alkaline water electrolysis at high temperatures can rival acidic proton–exchange membranes. However, they suffer from increased energy consumption, reduced lifespan of materials and heightened safety risks. Magnetic hyperthermia is a method of localizing intense heating in the presence of an external high–frequency alternating magnetic field (AMF). In this study, we developed a custom electromagnetic induction device capable of generating a small magnetic field of about 2 µT. High–permeability nickel foam is used as electrodes. Results show that the iron coated nickel foam decreases the overpotential of the hydrogen evolution reaction (HER) and oxygen evolution reaction by ∼150 mV and 60 mV, respectively, at 20 mAcm−2 when subjected to magnetic heating in a high–frequency AMF. The overall water splitting current of Ni foam/Fe increases 540% under intermittent induction. The enhanced stability of Ni foam/Fe is attributed to the high binding energy of metal–O on the surface. The density function theory calculations further indicates that the lattice expansion of the metal electrode under induction heating optimizes the adsorption and desorption of H*, thereby enhancing the HER performance.
Machine learning assisted crystallographic reconstruction from atom probe tomographic images
Authors: Pu Jie-Ming , Chen Shuai , Zhang Tong-Yi
Published: September 2024

Atom probe tomography (APT) is a powerful technique for three-dimensional (3D) atomic-scale imaging, enabling the accurate analysis on the compositional distribution at the nanoscale. How to accurately reconstruct crystallographic information from APT data, however, is still a great challenge due to the intrinsic nature of the APT technique. In this paper, we propose a novel approach that consists of the modified forward simulation process and the backward machine learning process to recover the tested crystal from APT data. The high-throughput forward simulations on Al single crystals of different orientations generate 10 000 original 3D images and data augmentation is implemented on the original images, resulting in 100 000 3D images. The big data allows the development of deep learning models and three deep learning algorithms of Convolutional Neural Network (CNN), Vision Transformer (ViT), and Variational Autoencoder (VAE) are used in the backward process. After training, the ViT model performs superior than the CNN and VAE models, which can recover the crystalline orientation outstandingly, as evaluated by the coefficient of determination

R
2

and the Mean Percent Error (MPE), viz.,

R
2

= 0.93 and MPE = 0.43%,

R
2

= 0.97 and MPE = 0.35%, and

R
2

= 0.93 and MPE = 0.77% for the rotation angles

ϕ

,

ψ

and

θ

, respectively, on the test dataset. The present work clearly demonstrates the capability of deep learning models in the recovery of the tested crystals from APT data, thereby paving the way for the further development of large artificial intelligent models of APT.
Industrial robot calibration optimization method based on R-optimal criterion and improved IOOPS algorithm
Authors: Jia Huakun , Zeng Hanbo , Zhang Jiyan , Gao Rongke , Lu Yang , Yu Liandong
Published: September 2024

In this paper, a novel kinematic parameter calibration method based on the R-optimal criterion and the improved iterative one-by-one pose search (IOOPS) algorithm is proposed to improve the end-effector positioning accuracy of industrial robots. First, a novel industrial robot error calibration model based on the product of exponential model and generalized error model is established, and the ideal pose transformation matrix from the robot base coordinate system to the laser tracker measurement coordinate system is obtained using the least-squares method, thereby obtaining the initial parameter vector of the robot calibration system. Second, various joint angle values at different positions within the robot’s workspace and the corresponding end-effector coordinate data, namely calibration sampling point data, are collected. Subsequently, the improved IOOPS algorithm combined with the observability index

O

R

proposed by the R-optimal criterion is used to select the optimized calibration sampling points. Finally, the optimized sampling point data are combined with the Levenberg–Marquardt algorithm to optimize the parameters and obtain the optimal kinematic parameters. The experimental results show that the average end-effector error of the robot decreases from 0.5822 to 0.2492 mm after calibration using this method, demonstrating the effectiveness of the optimized sampling points in the calibration process achieved through the improved algorithm and the new observability index.
A novel autonomous exploration algorithm via LiDAR/IMU SLAM and hierarchical subsystem for mobile robot in unknown indoor environments
Authors: Gao Zhilin , Xie Fei , Huang Yihan , Zhao Jing , Luo Haisen , Yan Xinchen , Zhao Fei , Lv Pin
Published: September 2024

Autonomous exploration in unknown environments is an essential capability for mobile robots. The complexity of autonomous exploration, however, means that existing algorithms struggle to balance efficiency and comprehensiveness, causing low mapping accuracy and redundant path planning. To perform accurate and efficient exploration tasks, we have proposed a novel autonomous exploration algorithm via LiDAR/IMU (Inertial Measurement Unit) Simultaneous Localization and Mapping (SLAM) and hierarchical subsystem for mobile robot in unknown environments. Firstly, to enhance mapping accuracy for mobile robot exploration, LiDAR/IMU SLAM is improved with the assistance of backward propagation and iterated Kalman filter, and Bidirectional Rapidly–Exploring Random Trees* (BI–RRT*) is applied for efficient frontier point detection. Secondly, we optimize local path planning by leveraging information theory through perceptual quality evaluation, which is then integrated with global path planning utilizing an enhanced Travelling Salesman Problem solver and a sparse grid map to amplify exploration efficiency. Thirdly, an enhanced hierarchical autonomous exploration method for mobile robots is proposed, which incorporates local path planning for seamless navigation around highly promising exploration spots, coupled with global path planning to effectively interconnect various sub–regions. Finally, simulations and field tests have demonstrated that the proposed method explores an unknown indoor environment with a 30.8% reduction in exploration time and a 29.9% reduction in exploration path in comparison with Dynamic Stage Viewpoint Planner. The map constructed in this paper has more accurate details and exploration paths have been shortened to ensure effective exploration.
Chaos-driven detection of methylene blue in wastewater using fractional calculus and laser systems
Authors: Martínez-Ayala Lizeth , Bornacelli Jhovani , Ojeda-Misses Manuel Alejandro , Arano-Martinez Jose Alberto , Torres-Torres Carlos , Martines-Arano Hilario
Published: September 2024

Methylene blue (MB) concentrations in residual water were detected using fractional calculus, the Rössler chaotic attractor and laser systems. A Nd:YVO4 nanosecond pulsed laser at 532 nm, with pulse energies ranging from 2 µJ to 7 µJ, was applied to irradiate different water samples containing MB concentrations from 20 µl to 100 µl. Fractional calculus was employed with the purpose of modeling the temperature distribution in the samples, with the Caputo fractional derivative describing photothermal effects induced by laser irradiation. Different MB concentrations were detected by using the Rössler chaotic attractor, it monitored variation on concentrations, associating attractor shapes with MB concentrations. Lower concentrations showed a weaker attractor response, whereas higher concentrations manifest stronger attractor shapes in magnitude. Raman spectroscopy confirmed the detection of MB in residual water from the Requena dam, located in Tepeji del Río de Ocampo, Hidalgo, Mexico. The application of fractional calculus improved the prediction of heat distribution in the samples, by incorporating numerical simulation. The results suggest that this approach is suitable for real-time monitoring, as it associates MB concentrations with distinct chaotic attractor shapes. This technique shows promise for the detection of other contaminants as well. Future research should focus on refining this method and expanding its application to develop innovative monitoring solutions.
In situ Raman investigation to electrochemical synthesis of ammonia on Pd nanocrystals
Authors: Bai Xiaoxia , Luo Jingying , Wu Keming , Sun Congcong , Pang Haili , Zhang Hui , Khosla Ajit
Published: September 2024

Nitrate and nitrite are widely present in industrial wastewater and domestic sewage, so electrocatalytic reduction of both nitrate and nitrite to ammonia synthesis is considered to be a sustainable development approach. Pd nanostructures have attracted much attention because of their high activity in catalyzing the nitrate electrochemical reduction reaction. Here we prepare Pd nanocube and octahedron for the electrochemical reduction of nitrate and nitrite. It is found that Pd octahedron shows slightly higher activity toward nitrate reduction than Pd nanocube, while for nitrite reduction, Pd octahedron shows much higher activity than Pd nanocube. The ammonia yield rate is more potential–dependent. In situ Raman characterization further confirms the existence of adsorbed ammonia on the surface of nanocube and octahedron, indicating similar reduction pathways on (111)–facet octahedron and (100)–facet nanocube.
Commissioning of the tracer-encapsulated solid pellet (TESPEL) injection system for Wendelstein 7-X and first results for OP1.2b
Authors: Bussiahn R , Tamura N , McCarthy K J , Buttenschön B , Brandt C , Dinklage A , Langenberg A ,   the W7-X Team
Published: September 2024

A new tracer-encapsulated solid pellet (TESPEL) injection system was successfully commissioned for the stellarator fusion experiment Wendelstein 7-X (W7-X) during its OP1.2b operational campaign. TESPELs are polystyrene encapsulated solid pellets loaded with tracer impurities that have been employed in other stellarator devices for impurity transport studies. During the OP1.2b campaign approximately 140 pellet injections were performed with a successful delivery rate of 89%, thus this system has proven to be very reliable. Here, the experimental set-up and methodology are described first. In addition, it is outlined how, through the analysis of TESPEL time-of-flight signals and of the temporal evolution of line emissions originating from shell and tracer species as well as comparisons with ablation models, the radial localization of the deposited tracer is determined. This contribution also provides a general overview of the TESPEL injector performance during OP1.2b, discusses the global effects of TESPEL injections on W7-X plasmas and reports on first results in terms of a summary of TESPEL injections, plasma response to TESPELs, the post-deposition evolution of tracer spectral emission lines and soft x-ray emissions.