bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Highly Reversible Zn Plating/Striping Enabled By Zincophilic Coating for Anode-Free Zinc-Ion Batteries
Authors: Mary Amirtha Rene , Hung Tai-Feng
Published: December 2024

Anode-free zinc-ion batteries (AFZIBs) have attracted profound attention due to their intrinsic safety, simplified configuration, and cost-effectiveness. However, some challenges, e.g., obvious nucleation barrier and non-uniform plating/stripping of Zn on copper (Cu) current collector, restrict the development progress. To overcome these issues and to attain long cyclability with high Coulombic efficiency (>99 %) in AFZIBs, the primary concern is given to achieve a zincophilic surface with low nucleation overpotential for reversible Zn plating/striping on the Cu foil. Numerous efforts have been committed to establishing this trait on the current collector surface, including epitaxial electrodeposition, surface engineering, and artificial interface coating. Among those strategies, the last one has been proven to effectively lower nucleation overpotential and uniformly distribute the electric field for stable Zn deposition. Herein, a zincophilic layer consisting of porous ZIF-8 and sodium alginate was coated on Cu foil (denoted as Z8-SA@Cu) to facilitate the distribution of Zn2+ flux during the plating and stripping of Zn. Contributing to such a unique design, the nucleation potential and overpotential delivered from Z8-SA@Cu were -133 mV and 81 mV under the testing condition of 5 mA/cm2 @ 1 mAh/cm2, which were lower than those of bare Cu (-150 mV and 102 mV). Following the repeated plating/stripping by the same condition, it can be seen that Z8-SA@Cu not only gave the improved initial Coulombic efficiency (81 % vs. 75 % for bare Cu) but also exhibited remarkable reversibility (99 % of Coulombic efficiency over 1,000 cycles). Consequently, the Z8-SA@Cu prepared in this study demonstrates its promising potential for the AFZIBs application owing to the synergistic contributions of ZIF-8 and SA.

Figure 1
First Principles Calculation of Sodium Intercalation in Transition-Metal Dichalcogenides
Authors: Cao Jiangming , Mercer Michael P. , Silva Andrea , Kramer Denis
Published: December 2024

Sodium ion batteries (SIBs) are an attractive substitute to lithium ion batteries, particularly for grid-scale energy storage, due to low cost and abundance of sodium [1]. Two-dimensional (2D) transition-metal dichalcogenides (TMDs) have evoked widespread attention as promising electrode materials [2], particularly as potential anode materials. Based on a database of 2D-TMDs, there is a need to determine the stability of 3D-TMDs before/after sodiation to optimise SIB anode materials.

In this work, using density functional theory (DFT) calculations, we conduct a systematic study of the series of TMDs for their electrochemical performance and structural properties based on 2D ground state structure of TMDs [3,4]. A voltage map is presented where the sodiated voltage of 3D-TMDs can be consulted, including p-MoS2, p-CdI2, p-NbTe2, p-WTe2, p-PdS2 and p-PdCl2 prototypes. With this voltage map, we can explore which TMDs can be as a suitable electrode materials for SIBs. Group VI elements (Mo, W) emerge as promising candidate from the voltage map. Further exploration of these candidates reveals that a prismatic → octahedral phase transition occurred during sodiation for CrS2, MoS2, CrSe2 and WS2, while MoSe2 and WSe2 show low voltage in prismatic coordination without phase transition. Some of Mo and W systems appearing to be promising anode materials because of relatively low voltage. However, phase transition during sodiation of CrS2, MoS2, CrSe2 and WS2 leads to an increase in voltage, making these less effective as anode materials.Additionally, the phase changes could be associated with other detrimental volume changes, hysteresis and possible degradation issues.

Keywords: transition-metal dichalcogenides, sodium-ion batteries, phase transition during sodiation, first principles calculation.

Reference

[1] Kundu, D., Talaie, E., Duffort, V. & Nazar, L. F. The emerging chemistry of sodium ion batteries for electrochemical energy storage. Angewandte Chemie - International Edition 54, 3432–3448 (2015).

[2] J Morales, J Santos, and J L Tirado. Electrochemical studies of lithium and sodium intercalation in MoSe2. Solid State Ionics, 83:57–64, 1996.

[3] Andrea Silva, Jiangming Cao, Tomas Polcar, and Denis Kramer. Design guidelines for two-dimensional transition metal dichalcogenide alloys. Chemistry of Materials, 34:10279–10290, 2022.

[4] Andrea Silva, Jiangming Cao, Tomas Polcar, and Denis Kramer. Pettifor maps of complex ternary two-dimensional transition metal sulfides. npj Computational Materials, 8(1):178, 2022.
Aqueous Redox Flow Battery Using Iron Based Complexes as Redox Active Materials
Authors: Shin Mingyu , Park Sungmin , Kwon Yongchai
Published: December 2024

Aqueous Redox flow batteries (ARFBs) are a promising technology for large scale energy storage system. For improving the performance and stability of the ARFBs, the determination of proper active materials is most important. The active materials are immersed into supporting electrolytes, and such produced anolyte and catholyte are stored in tank. They decide cell voltage and maximum solubility, followed by capacity and power density of ARFBs. So far, vanadium was the main host of active material. However, due to its natural limitations, many attempts are made to replace it to other matreials that have appropriate redox kinetics. As the alternative, ornanometallic complex materials can be considered because they offer the benefits such as adjustable redox potential and solubility, a low crossover rate, and a relatively cheap cost. In this presentation, of the candiates, iron based complex materials that are dissolved in high pH electrolytes are considered . Initially, their electrochemical properties and kinetic parameters are evaluated quantitatively to determine their optimal condition. In turn, cycle tests of ARFBs using them are implemented to enhance their performance and stability. Based on that, we corroborate that ARFB using ornanometallic complex materials as redox couple is viable enough to compete with vanadium RFB and littium battery.
Fluoride Ion Conductivity of Rb-Doped KSbF4
Authors: Kawahara Kazuaki , Ishikawa Ryo , Shibata Naoya , Ikuhara Yuichi
Published: December 2024

All solid-state fluoride ion batteries (FIBs) are considered to be higher energy density and safer energy storages than the current lithium ion batteries [1]. There is a serious issue for practical use of FIBs i.e., the fluoride ion conductivities of solid-state electrolytes at room temperature are quite low (< 10-6 S cm-1), and operating temperature of FIB should be 420 K or higher [2]. Therefore, the faster fluoride ion conductors are strongly desired to operate FIB at room temperature. Potassium tetrafluoroantimonate (KSbF4) is a promising candidates that have a faster ionic conductivity [3].

In this study, we doped Rb into KSbF4 to expand conduction pathways in volume, and we investigated the composition dependence of ionic conductivity of K1-x
Rb
x
SbF4 by using electrochemical impedance spectroscopy. We found that ionic conductivity strongly depends on the chemical composition and conductivity is maximized at x = 0.15. The ionic conductivity at room temperature in the bulk and at the grain boundary at x = 0.15 were σbulk = 1.01 × 10-4 S cm-1 and σGB = 4.80 × 10-5 S cm-1, respectively [4].

Acknowledgement:

This presentation is based on results obtained from a project, JPNP21006, commissioned by the New Energy and Industrial Technology Development Organization (NEDO).

References:

[1] M. A. Reddy, et al., J. Mater. Chem. 21, 17059 (2011).

[2] F. Gschwind, et al., J. Fluorine Chem. 182, 76 (2016).

[3] K. Kawahara, et al., J. Power Sour. 483, 229173 (2021).

[4] K. Kawahara, et al., J. Electrochem. Soc. 170, 020528 (2023).
Charge-Discharge Behavior of Spinel-Type Manganese Dioxide for Positive Electrode Materials for Aqueous Proton Batteries
Authors: Kida Yusuke , Ikezawa Atsunori , Okajima Takeyoshi , Arai Hajime
Published: December 2024

Introduction

Rechargeable aqueous proton batteries function with proton insertion and extraction between two electrodes in acidic aqueous electrolytes. Since protons with small ionic radius and light molar mass are used as mobile ions, the battery has attracted attention for its possible high-rate charging performance. So far, a full cell of an aqueous proton battery with a voltage of 0.47 V class has been found using MoO3, an insertion-extraction type active material, in both electrodes. [1] It has been also reported that LiV3O8 works as a positive electrode material in proton cells. [2] On the other hand, it is desirable to find inexpensive electrode materials for practical use.

In this study, λ-MnO2, which is inexpensive and has high redox potential, was synthesized using a soft chemistry method, and its potential as a proton battery positive electrode was examined mainly through constant-current charge-discharge tests. We also attempted to elucidate the reaction mechanism by operando X-ray diffraction measurements.

Experiment

LiMn2O4 was synthesized by solid phase method using MnO and Li2CO3 as precursors. The active material, λ-MnO2, was obtained by chemical treatment of LiMn2O4 with H2SO4 solution prepared at pH=1. A composite electrode was prepared by coating and drying a slurry of active material (80 wt%), carbon black (10 wt%), and polyvinylidene difluoride (10 wt%) in N-methyl-2-pyrrolidone on a graphite sheet. A three-electrode cell was constructed using the prepared composite electrode as the working electrode, platinum mesh as the counter electrode, Ag/AgCl electrode as the reference electrode, and 50 wt% H2SO4 aqueous solution as the electrolyte solution, and charge-discharge tests were performed. Powder XRD measurements were performed for active material and electrode characterization.

R
esults and discussion

Fig. 1 shows the results of a constant-current charge-discharge test at 0.1 C. The material was found to be operated at potentials between 1.2 V and 1.7 V (vs. SHE) and has the potential to be cycled stably with a capacity of 200 mAh g-1. These results show that an electromotive force of more than 1 V, the highest value ever achieved for proton cells, can be achieved by using 50 wt% H2SO4 as the electrolyte and MoO3 as a negative electrode.

[1] A. Ikezawa, Y. Koyama, T. Nishizawa, and H. Arai, J. Mater. Chem. A . 11, 2360.(2023)

[2] A. Ikezawa, H. Xing, T. Hiramatsu, Y. Koyama, T. Nishizawa, T. Okajima and H. Arai, Abst. Asian Conf. Electrochem. Power Sources (2024).

Figure 1
Interface Engineering of VO2 for Enhanced Energy Storage in Aqueous Zn-Ion Batteries
Authors: Chen Jheng-An , Su Jia-He , Ting Yuan-Hong , Wu Tzu-Ho
Published: December 2024

Rechargeable aqueous Zn−ion batteries (RAZIBs) with the merits of cost effectiveness and high safety have been rejuvenated as tantalizing energy storage systems to meet the demand for grid−scale applications (ACS Energy Lett., 2021;6:404-412). Currently, the energy storage capability of the positive electrode (cathode) holds the key for the overall performance of RAZIBs (Mater. Today, 2021;42: 73-98). In this work, we reveal two strategies to improve the energy storage capability of VO2 cathode in RAZIBs, including heterostructure and carbon quantum dots (CQDs) engineering strategies. For heterostructure engineering, the presence of a heterojunction between VO2 and V10O24·12H2O (HVO) enables built−in electric field to boost electron transport kinetics. The VO2/HVO sample integrates the merits of high−capacity VO2 and high−stability HVO, showing promising electrochemical performance with high capacity (317 and 239 mAh g−1 at 1 and 4 A g−1, respectively) and good cycle stability (80% after 2000 cycles). For CQDs engineering, the VO2/CQDs sample can be constructed by strong interface interaction, and the CQDs decorated sample has higher specific surface area, better electrolyte wettability, reduced charge−transfer resistance, and facilitated ion diffusion coefficient. The attainable capacity of VO2/CQDs can even reach 427 mAh g−1 at 0.2 A g−1. The proposed strategies effectively improve the electrochemical performance of pure VO2 counterpart.
Computational Investigations of Features for Predicting Ionic Conductivity in Multivalent Solid Electrolytes
Authors: Greene Samuel M , Siegel Donald J.
Published: December 2024

A significant challenge hindering the development of batteries based on the redox of multivalent ions is the sluggish mobility of such ions in most solids. Computational methods for efficiently predicting conductivity can accelerate the discovery of faster ion conductors. Direct first-principles calculations of conductivity are expensive and difficult to automate, which has prompted a search for other properties related to conductivity that are easier to calculate or measure. Previous studies have identified features related to the electronic charge density and phonon spectrum that are correlated with energy barriers for ion migration in monovalent conductors. Results from our first-principles simulations demonstrate that these features are not well correlated with energy barriers for multivalent ion migration. I will discuss potential reasons for this lack of correlation and propose modifications that are found to improve correlations. These findings quantify the promise of using such features to efficiently screen for better multivalent ion conductors.

Figure 1
Preparation and Electrochemical Properties of α-MgCu2O3
Authors: Miyazaki Yuzuru , Uehara Kazuma , Zihan Zhou , Huang Zhicheng , Hayashi Kei
Published: December 2024

Magnesium cuprate MgCu2O3 (knowa as Guggenite) consists of undulated Cu-O networks, wherein square-planar CuO4 units share their edges to form Cu2O3 zigzag ladders. The Mg ions are situated between the Cu2O3 ladders and can be migrated two-dimensionally. Among the three known Guggenite-derivatives, the title compound usually involves off-stoichiometry; the Mg site is partially occupied by Cu and the chemical formula is thus represented as (Mg1-xCux)Cu2O3 [1,2]. In such a compound, the smooth migration of Mg ions could be prevented by the partially occupied Cu ions. Kobayashi [3] first investigated electrochemical properties of the samples prepared at 1000°C in oxygen. According to his thesis, Mg-extraction/insertion behaviour was observed at least three cycles. We have investigated the preparation conditions in detail and discovered that the single-phase region can be expanded by preparing samples above 1000°C in oxygen. Rietvled analyses using lab X-ray diffraction (XRD) have revealed that the x value can be lowered down to x < 0.10. Cyclic voltammetry (CV) measurements were performed using three electrode cells and 0.5 mol/L Mg(ClO4)2-acetonitrlie (AN) solutions. Working electrodes were prepared by mixing N-Methyl-2-Pyrrolidone (NMP) and the well-mixed powders of the cuprate samples, acetylene black (AN) and poly vinylidene fluoride (PVDF). Mg metal rods were used as counter and reference electrodes. Fig. 1 represents a partial cyclic voltammogram recorded at 20°C. The Mg extraction/insertion from/to the structure is clearly recognised at E~2.0-2.1 V vs. Mg2+/Mg even at around room temperature. Such charge/discharge reactions were reproducibly observed. More details of the preparation conditions, crystal structure and electrochemical properties will be presented in the conference.

References

[1] M. Winkelmann, H. A. Anderson, T. Zeiske, D. Hohlwein, Z. Kristallogr., 209 (1994) 870.

[2] K. Oh-ishi, Y. Tsuchiya, Y. Iizuka, H. Yamane, J. Solid State Chem., 160 (2001) 251.

[3] Fumiya Kobayashi, Graduation Thesis, School of Engineering, Tohoku University, (2010), (in Japanese).

Figure 1
An acute bout of 4 × 4-min or 10 × 1-min HIIT improves β cell glucose sensitivity in postmenopausal females with type 2 diabetes: a secondary analysis
Authors: Low J. L. , Marcotte-Chénard A. , Tremblay R. , Islam H. , Falkenhain K. , Mampuya W. M. , Mari A. , McManus A. M. , Riesco E. , Little J. P.
Published: December 2024

This is the first study to explore the effects of acute high-intensity interval training (HIIT) on β cell function in postmenopausal women with type 2 diabetes. Our crossover trial compares two HIIT protocols, matched for total estimated energy expenditure, examining their impacts on β cell function and insulin sensitivity. Despite the absence of an insulin-sensitizing effect, we show robust effects of HIIT on β-cell function, including an improvement in β-cell glucose sensitivity.
Study on Finite Element Model Modification of Long‐Span Suspension Bridge Based on BPANN‐GA
Authors: Qin Zi-Xiu , Wang Xi-Rui , Liu Wen-Jie , Fan Zi-Jian
Published: December 2024

In order to improve the reliability of the finite element analysis model of long‐span suspension bridges, this paper proposes a finite element model (FEM) modification method by the hybrid algorithm of backpropagation artificial neural network (BPANN) and genetic algorithm (GA) based on field measurements and vibration modal analysis. First, finite element computational data is used to train the neural network. The trained neural network is then used to predict the natural frequencies corresponding to different modal shapes under various parameters. Based on the measured values, a fitness function is constructed, and the GA is used to optimize the model parameters. These optimized parameters are subsequently applied to correct the FEM of long‐span suspension bridges. Finally, the computational errors of the initial model, the BPANN corrected model, and the BPANN‐GA model are compared and analyzed to verify the advantages of using BPANN‐GA for bridge model modification. The results show that the average computational error of the natural frequencies for the 1st to 8th modes before modification is 7.04%. After modification using BPANN‐GA, the absolute value of the computational error for the 1st to 8th modes is all below 3%, and the modal assurance criterion (MAC) values all exceed 90%. Compared to the conventional BPANN, BPANN‐GA can effectively improve the modification effect, with the average computational errors of natural frequencies being 3.84% and 1.50%, respectively. For static displacement, the computational error after modification is also significantly reduced, with the average computational error decreasing from 11.4% to 5.9%. After modification using BPANN‐GA, the static and dynamic responses of the structure can be better reflected by the corrected model, thus providing a more reliable computational basis for understanding the safety status of the bridge.
Comparative Analysis of Automated Machine Learning and Optimized Conventional Machine Learning for Concrete’s Uniaxial Compressive Strength Prediction
Authors: Daniel Chukwuemeka
Published: December 2024

The uniaxial compressive strength (UCS) is a crucial mechanical property influenced by factors such as concrete constituents and curing days. Concrete’s UCS poses significant challenges for accurate estimation. Traditional methods are time‐intensive, expensive, and may struggle to account for the impact of various interacting factors. This study pioneers the application of automated machine learning (AutoML) and conventional ML techniques to unravel the intricate relationships between the UCS and six factors. A robust dataset comprising 844 experimental results was used to train and evaluate the models. The input parameters for the models were: the curing days, amount of plasticizer, and quantity of cement, fine and coarse aggregates (CAs). Among the models assessed, the AutoGluon model stands out for its superior prediction accuracy and result interpretability. AutoGluon showed exceptional performance when the predictions were compared with experimental data. This model yielded the lowest root mean square error (RMSE) of 1.0830 MPa and the highest coefficient of determination (R2) of 0.9493. Analysis of feature importance indicates that curing days of concrete is the most influential parameter for this prediction task. The study demonstrates that the AutoGluon model reliably and robustly estimates concrete’s UCS. Additionally, they are more efficient to train than conventional ML models, eliminating the need for the laborious and time‐consuming process of hyperparameter tuning. Specifically, in assessing the UCS of concrete AutoGluon had 0.64%–1.82% and 0.07%–0.2% more superior RMSE and R2 than the conventional ML models.
Effects of Lysophospholipid on Growth Performance, Hepatopancreas Health, and Intestinal Microbiome of Litopenaeus vannamei in Low‐Fishmeal Diet
Authors: Chen An-Qi , Chen Bao-Yang , Zhong Jian , Liao Zhi-Hong , He Xuan-Shu , Lin Si-Han , Fang Chuan-Ji , Li Ning , Zhao Wei , Niu Jin
Published: December 2024

A 56‐day culture experiment was conducted to assess the effects of lysophospholipid added to a low‐fishmeal diet on growth performance, hepatopancreas health, and intestinal microbiome of Litopenaeus vannamei. Three experimental diets were set up in this study: normal fishmeal positive control diet (20% fishmeal, P), low fishmeal negative control diet (12% fishmeal, N), and low fishmeal + lysophospholipid diet (12% fishmeal with 0.1% lysophospholipid, L). The obtained results proved that L. vannamei fed the group N diet could inhibit growth performance (final body weight, weight gain, and specific growth rate), decrease whole‐body crude protein, and inhibit hepatosomatic antioxidant capacity and digestive capacity. These adverse effects were significantly alleviated in group L. Compared with group P, the expression of hepatopancreas lipid metabolism genes and the triglyceride content were both increased in group N. The triglyceride level of group L was significantly higher than that of group P but lower than group N. Histological analysis showed that the addition of lysophospholipid could maintain the normal morphology of hepatopancreas and reduce pathological changes such as cell melanosis caused by a low fishmeal diet. In addition, the proportion of dominant colonizers of intestinal flora was unbalanced in group N. In group L, the imbalance was alleviated. In conclusion, the supplementation of lysophospholipid in the low‐fishmeal diet of L. vannamei improved the weight gain, antioxidant capacity, digestive capacity of hepatopancreas, regulate hepatopancreas lipid metabolism and maintain healthy tissue morphology, and also regulate the intestinal flora structure.
Indicators for Active Transportation in Tier II Indian Cities: A Case of Bhopal, India
Authors: Saleem Shumaila , Jaiswal Anuj
Published: December 2024

For a developing country to flourish sustainably, the transport sector needs to be balanced yet compete with its peers to support the growth of diverse sectors of the urban economy. Encouraging active mobility is one of the vital steps for the development of sustainable urban transportation. It indicates any mode of transport that involves physical activity, for example, cycling, walking, skateboarding and skiing. This paper is an attempt to identify the performance indicators that majorly affect the walkability and cyclability of people in cities capable of promoting active mobility. The objective is to corroborate the presence of qualitative and quantitative indicators in various sustainable transportation practices. Based on analytical hierarchy process, modified Delphi approach and user perception survey were utilised for the identification of performance indicators for Bhopal city. The indicators were segregated using exploratory factor analysis into five dimensions to categorise the performance indicators: sociodemographic, socioeconomic, physical and built environment and safety. It was found that supportive facilities were crucial for developing existing land use, physical and built environment and safety for users in a beginner city wanting to encourage users to switch to active modes choices. It was also found that urban design and built environment were the most influential factors which affect the various performance indicators for the establishment of active mobility modes for sustainable urban transportation.
Introducing an Experimental Model of Asphalt Shear Strength Using Designed Jaws and Presentation of Shear Strength Prediction Model by Genetic Programming Method
Authors: Modarresi Morteza , Divandari Hassan , Amouzadeh Omrani Mohsen , Esmaeilnia Amiri Mojtaba
Published: December 2024

The main material used in the construction of roads is asphalt. Therefore, the recognition of asphalt’s mechanical aspects is very important. One of the important features of asphalt is its shear strength, which should be measured accurately. However, the methods that have been presented to measure this important factor of asphalt always encounter weaknesses. So, it is necessary to find a suitable method to determine the shear strength of asphalt with more accurate results and high compatibility with reality. In this regard, the purpose of the present research was to design jaws in order to measure the shear strength in the direction and opposite direction of the traffic path and provide a model to predict shear strength using Marshall stability resulting from invented jaws. In order to examine the accuracy of the designed jaw in this study, two different types of asphalt, Binder 0–25 and Topeka 0–19 grading, were used. For this purpose, Marshall stability and shear strength tests in the direction and opposite direction of the Marshall were conducted with 12 repetitions on these samples. Also, the genetic programming (GP) evolutionary algorithm was applied in this study to provide a prediction model of shear strength. The results of this study indicated that there was a significant relationship between the Marshall stability and the shear strength in the direction and opposite direction of the Marshall applying the invented jaws in both asphalt types, and the coefficient of determination (R2) for the Binder and Topeka were 0.93 and 0.97 in the Marshall’s direction and 0.96 and 0.95 for the Marshall’s opposite direction, respectively. Also, the results of the GP method indicated that the relationships between predicted and actual values of shear strength for Binder and Topeka asphalt types were appropriately described by R2 of 99.47% and 99.21% with RMSE of 8.0177 and 5.0143 in the traffic direction, and R2 of 97.45% and 98.08% with RMSE of 1.2684 and 0.7035 in the traffic opposite direction, respectively. Therefore, GP provided a more suitable fit of all experimental data for both Binder and Topeka asphalts, and it can be said that with the help of new designed jaws, the shear strength in the direction and opposite direction of the Marshall can be estimated with high accuracy.
Detection of Vitiligo Through Machine Learning and Computer‐Aided Techniques: A Systematic Review
Authors: Tanvir Sania , Syed Sidra Abid , Hussain Samreen , Zia Razia , Rashid Munaf , Zahid Hira
Published: December 2024

Background and Objective: Vitiligo is a chronic skin damage disease, triggered by differential melanocyte death. Vitiligo (0.5%–1% of the population) is one of the most severe skin conditions. In general, the foundation of the condition of vitiligo remains gradual patchy loss of skin pigmentation, overlying blood, and sometimes mucus. This paper provides a systematic review of the relevant publications and conference papers based on the subject of vitiligo diagnosis and confirmation through computer‐aided machine learning (ML) techniques.

Materials and Methods: A search was conducted using a predetermined set of keywords across three databases, namely, Science Direct, PubMed, and IEEE Xplore. The selection process involved the application of eligibility criteria, which led to the inclusion of research published in reputable journals and conference proceedings up until June 2024. These selected papers were then subjected to full‐text screening for additional analysis. Research publications that involved application of ML techniques with targeted population of vitiligo were selected for further systematic review.

Results: Ten selected and screened studies are included in this systematic review after applying eligibility criteria along with inclusion and exclusion criteria applied on initial search result which was 244 studies based on vitiligo. Priority is given to those studies only which use ML techniques to perform detection and diagnosis on vitiligo‐targeted population. Data analysis was carried out only from the selected and screened research articles that were published in authentic journals and conference proceedings.

Conclusion: The importance of applying ML techniques in the clinical diagnosis of vitiligo can give more accurate results and at the same also eliminate the need of biased human judgement. Based on a comprehensive examination of the research, encompassing the methodologies employed and the metrics utilized to assess outcomes, it was determined that there is a need for further research and investigation regarding the application of ML algorithm for the detection and diagnosis of vitiligo with different datasets and more feature extraction.
Surviving the Nightmare: Massive Bleeding From Large Intraoral Arteriovenous Malformation During Airway Management for Angioembolization Procedure
Authors: Khan Muhammad Faisal , Khan Muhammad Khuzzaim , Nazir Sidra , Shamim Faisal
Published: December 2024

Arteriovenous malformations (AVMs) in the head and neck present significant challenges due to airway management complexities and hemorrhage risks. This case report describes a 15‐year‐old female with a congenital facial AVM causing dyspnea and obstructive symptoms. The patient required angioembolization of the AVM, but many hospitals deferred the procedure due to the anticipated difficult airway and severe bleeding risks. We did two attempts of awake fiberoptic intubation but could not succeed due to patient intolerance. Subsequently, inhalational induction started and video laryngoscopy performed but also failed due to anatomical distortion. With attempts to bag mask ventilate, severe venous engorgement started and patient experienced massive hemorrhage and circulatory collapse, necessitating prolonged resuscitation and intubation efforts. Eventually, intubation was successful after 40 min using suction assisted laryngoscopy and decontamination (SALAD) technique by video laryngoscope. She underwent angioembolization and shifted to the ICU where she remained on mechanical ventilation for 9 days. After tracheostomy was performed, she was gradually weaned off from ventilator and was later discharged. This case highlights the need for meticulous planning, comprehensive airway evaluation, backup strategies, and multidisciplinary support, suggesting video laryngoscopy as a valuable alternative in high‐bleeding‐risk cases.
Utility of Adrenal Vein Sampling to Guide Surgical Management of Hypercortisolism
Authors: Tran Brandon , Lim James Y. , Park Brian
Published: December 2024

We report a case of successfully lateralized adrenal cortisol hypersecretion by adrenal venous sampling (AVS) and improved by surgery. AVS is a commonly used tool to guide surgical management of primary hyperaldosteronism. It can determine lateralization, leading to unilateral adrenalectomies of the correct side, or nonlateralization, which precludes surgery. The use of AVS in determining lateralization in hypercortisolism is a growing field of discussion. Currently, there is no defined or unanimous protocol behind procedural details and interpretation of results. In this report, we describe the AVS protocol at our institution for hypercortisolism, interpretation of the results, and corresponding surgical outcomes for a case of mild autonomous cortisol secretion.
Effectiveness of Posterior Decompression and Internal Fixation in Emergency Management of Thoracolumbar Fractures Complicated by Spinal Cord Injury
Authors: Li Jian , Zhou Tao , Lin Sen , Wang Hongliang
Published: December 2024

Objective: This study evaluates the effectiveness and timeliness of posterior decompression and internal fixation in the emergency management of thoracolumbar fractures complicated by spinal cord injuries.

Methods: We retrospectively analyzed 40 patients treated at our hospital from January 2019 to February 2022. Each patient underwent posterior decompression and internal fixation, with preoperative and postoperative assessments including vertebral body height, American Spinal Injury Association (ASIA) score, Visual Analog Scale (VAS) score, and urodynamic indices.

Results: Postoperative improvements were noted in vertebral body height, with anterior and posterior heights increasing to 12.82 (± 1.23) mm and 3.21 (± 0.64) mm, respectively, and kyphosis angle improving to 14.26 (± 0.32). Significant enhancements were also observed in motor (from 40.78 [± 4.32] to 59.86 [± 1.37]) and sensory (from 45.98 [± 3.20] to 66.92 [± 1.28]) function scores, and a reduction in VAS score from 6.89 (± 0.78) to 1.78 (± 0.32). Urodynamic measurements showed increased maximum urine flow and detrusor pressure postintervention. All surgical wounds healed within two weeks without significant complications.

Conclusion: Posterior decompression and internal fixation significantly improve spinal stability, pain, motor, and sensory functions in patients with thoracolumbar fractures and spinal cord injuries, demonstrating its effectiveness and clinical utility.
New and Accurate Online Self‐Test Methods for Gain and Offset Errors of 10‐Bit SAR‐ADC
Authors: Mohammedali Mohammed Abdulmahdi , Al-Gayem Qais
Published: December 2024

The absolute quantization range of the successive approximation register (SAR) ADC is impacted by nonideality parameters like offset and gain error, which can make its performance at a lower level in high resolution applications. To decrease the conversion range error in ADC’s systems, this article proposes a static offset and an embedded gain error correction method. The proposed methods mainly include three stages: error modeling, error detection, and correction stages for both gain and offset. The main motivations for this method are simplicity, speed, and adaptability. To evaluate the accuracy, the technique of sinusoidal signals was used as the analog input signal. Gain error is reduced by 0.95% and the offsets are reduced by 98.7%.
Nonsurjective Coarse Isometries of Uniformly Convex Banach Spaces
Authors: Sun Yuqi
Published: December 2024

We apply Pisier’s inequality to establish the stability property of nonsurjective coarse isometries from a Banach space to a uniformly convex space. Making use of this result, we extend some known conclusions on (ε, p) isometries of Hilbert spaces and Lq spaces.
Deep Learning–Based Fault Identification Testing Experiment for Bellows Valves
Authors: Guo Jianwen , Cai YongHeng , Chen Zihan , Tan Zonghao , Qiu Honghua , He Ning , Liu Yu , Wang Shuai
Published: December 2024

This study focuses on the fault identification of the pneumatic bellows valve. This valve plays an essential role in regulating system pressure to ensure the smooth progress of the tritium removal process. To conduct research on the health status of the pneumatic bellows valve and to timely identify potential faults and anomalies, we developed a dedicated experimental platform and assessed the performance of various deep learning models, including recurrent neural networks (RNNs), single‐layer long short–term memory networks (LSTMs), double‐layer LSTM, multilayer LSTM, single‐layer gated recurrent unit (GRU), and bidirectional GRU, in valve fault identification. The experimental outcomes reveal that the RNN and bidirectional GRU models exhibit superior performance in terms of accuracy and model fit, particularly in scenarios involving normal valve operations, valve leakage faults, and valve head contact faults. These findings offer new perspectives and methodologies for the detection and prevention of valve faults, contributing to the operational stability and safety of bellows valves.
Bmal1-Mediated Circadian MELK Expression Potentiates MELK Inhibitor Chronotherapy for Esophageal Cancer
Authors: Zeng Boning , Sun Chao , Tang Qian , Li Nan , Chen Siying , Yang Yili , Wang Xiao , Wang Shaoxiang
Published: December 2024

Esophageal squamous cell carcinoma (ESCC) remains a global health challenge. Circadian clock and maternal embryonic leucine zipper kinase (MELK) play a key role in tumorigenesis. However, a link between circadian clock dysregulation and MELK function in the occurrence and development of ESCC remains elusive. Here, In the in vivo and in vitro systems, we found for the first time that MELK exhibits pronounced circadian rhythms expression in mice esophageal tissue, xenograft model, and human ESCC cells. The diurnal differences expression between peak (ZT0) and trough (ZT12) points in normal esophageal tissue is nearly 10-fold. Circadian expression of MELK in ESCC cells was regulated by Bmal1 through binding to the MELK promoter. Supporting this, the levels of MELK were increased significantly in patients with ESCC and were accompanied by altered expression of core clock genes, especially, since Bmal1 is prominently upregulated. Most importantly, Bmal1-deleted eliminated the rhythmic expression of MELK, whereas the knockdown of other core genes had no effect on MELK expression. Furthermore, in nude mice with transplanted tumors, the anticancer effect of OTS167 at ZT0 administration is twice that of ZT12.

Implications: Our findings suggest that MELK represents a therapeutic target, and can as a regulator of circadian control ESCC growth, with these findings advance our understanding of the clinical potential of chronotherapy and the importance of time-based MELK inhibition in cancer treatment.
Real-life nationwide outcomes of bronchoscopic lung volume reduction with endobronchial valves in severe COPD
Authors: Borg Morten , Ibsen Rikke , Hilberg Ole , Løkke Anders
Published: December 2024

Introduction:
Chronic Obstructive Pulmonary Disease (COPD) is the third leading cause of death globally, characterized by airflow limitation and lung hyperinflation due to emphysema. Bronchoscopic lung volume reduction (BLVR) with endobronchial valves offers a minimally invasive treatment option for emphysema, aiming to reduce lung hyperinflation, thereby improving lung function and exercise tolerance.

Methods:
This study evaluated the efficacy of BLVR in a real-life nationwide setting using comprehensive Danish registries. The study population included patients who underwent BLVR between January 1, 2013, and December 31, 2021. We assessed clinical outcomes, including Forced Expiratory Volume in 1 second (FEV1), Medical Research Council (MRC) dyspnea score, and the rates of exacerbations and pneumonia before and after the procedure. A control cohort of matched COPD patients was also analyzed.

Results:
Following BLVR, a significant increase in FEV1, similar to the improvements reported in randomized controlled trials was observed. Additionally, the proportion of patients classified as GOLD stage IV decreased from 71.3% to 60.6% after BLVR. The incidence rate ratio for severe exacerbations significantly dropped to 0.56 (95% CI 0.47-0.67, p<0.01) after BLVR. No significant changes were observed in the rates of moderate and severe pneumonia, and mortality rates did not differ significantly from those in the matched control cohort.

Conclusion:
This study demonstrates the real-life efficacy of BLVR using endobronchial valves, highlighting a significant improvement in FEV1 and a reduction in severe COPD exacerbations. The procedure did not increase pneumonia rates or affect mortality, supporting continued use of BLVR for managing patients with COPD.
Do Languages Have Exclusive Disjunctions?
Authors: Nicolae Andreea C. , Petrenco Aliona , Tsilia Anastasia , Marty Paul
Published: December 2024

Most natural languages have more than one linguistic form available to express disjunction. One of these forms is often reported by native speakers to be more exclusive than the other(s) and, in recent years, it has been claimed that some languages may in fact have dedicated exclusive disjunctions. In this paper, we report on a series of experiments testing this claim across five languages of primary interest. Results show important variation in the rates of exclusive interpretation associated with the different particles used to express disjunction in these languages. Crucially, our findings show that, while complex disjunctions are usually perceived as more exclusive than their simple counterparts cross-linguistically, even the most exclusive disjunctions remain ambiguous between an inclusive and an exclusive interpretation. We discuss what factors may play a role in accounting for the gradient exclusivity effects observed in our data and how to model these effects in pragmatic and grammatical accounts of scalar implicatures.
Winning the Peace: The Role of Agonistic and Adaptive Peacebuilding in Sustaining Social Cohesion in Ukraine
Authors: Lehti Marko , Brylov Denys , de Coning Cedric , Kalenychenko Tetiana
Published: December 2024

This article analyzes the role that Ukrainian peacebuilders play in contributing to strengthening social cohesion in war-time Ukraine. It studies an initiative to facilitate dialogue between two jurisdictions of the Orthodox church to develop new insights into the role that dialogue facilitation and peace mediation can play as a form of internal peacebuilding. We analyze and assess these dialogue practices in Ukraine from the perspective of two theoretical approaches, namely agonistic peace and adaptive peacebuilding. The efforts of Ukrainian dialogue facilitators and peacebuilders have received little international attention and support, despite the fact that ambitious plans are underway to help rebuild Ukraine, and significant amounts of money are being mobilized for this effort. Our hope is that these efforts will involve the Ukrainian peacebuilding community in their work in order to ensure that their reconstruction efforts are conflict sensitive and peace positive.
2. Coming of Age
Authors: Smith Justin
Published: December 2024

In April 1944, as D-Day approached, ANCXF left London for Southwick Park near Portsmouth, while the vast invasion force amassed along the south coast and craft of all descriptions filled the waterways of the Solent. Ramsay’s headquarters were close to those of General Dwight D. Eisenhower, Supreme Headquarters Allied Expeditionary Force (SHAEF), while General Bernard Montgomery’s 21st Army Group was encamped in the woods around the park. At nearby Fort Southwick, in a bunker deep underground, Combined Operations had its communications headquarters. All leave was cancelled and unofficial communication with the world outside forbidden. Wren Writers worked around the clock in producing and revising the complex operational orders, and the teleprinter operators and signallers maintained the nerve centre of secret communications. Joan Prior’s 21st birthday celebrations and a Whitsun heatwave, were soon overshadowed by a gloomy storm forecast for 5th June and a nail-biting 24-hour postponement. The nervous tension radiating from Ramsay’s Ops Room was relieved on the morning of 6th by early reports of the invasion’s remarkable success.
4. The Cutty Wren
Authors: Smith Justin
Published: December 2024

As the Allied forces broke out of the Normandy beachhead and fought eastwards during the summer of 1944, so ANCXF moved in October to a new location on the outskirts of Paris, at St. Germain-en-Laye, where they occupied the Château d’Hennemont, recently vacated by officers of the Wehrmacht. While the Wrens contingent supported the Navy’s work in repairing recaptured channel ports and mounting the amphibious landings of the Walcheren campaign which opened the sea route to Antwerp, their days off presented frequent opportunities to visit Paris, for shopping and entertainment. Joan Prior’s letters home, the memoirs of Elspeth Shuter and the vivid memories of other Wrens contribute to the picture of a proud city rising above the clouds of occupation with rousing Armistice Day commemorations, impromptu sporting encounters, colourful autumn fashions, and cinema and theatre visits contributing to a resurgent nightlife. Despite the onset of freezing temperatures and the first falls of snow, Christmas spirits at Château d’Hennemont ran high and full Naval festivities ensued. Yet, as the new year that would bring eventual peace dawned, with it came personal tragedy: an aircraft crash which claimed the lives of Admiral Ramsay and his closest staff officers. It was a catastrophe for those Wrens and officers who had worked so tirelessly for their leader to achieve the triumph of D-Day, and for whom ultimate victory was so nearly within reach.
Assessing the Water Budget of the Arabian Peninsula and Its Internal Recycling Potential
Authors: Dufour Ambroise , Lopez Valencia Oliver M. , Mostamandi Suleiman , Beck Hylke E. , Johansen Kasper , Stenchikov Georgiy L.
Published: December 2024

The Arabian Peninsula, a predominantly hyperarid region, is facing increasing demands for freshwater driven by its growing population. The pressure on the resource would be reduced if local evaporation led to more rainfall within the domain. This study assesses moisture recycling in the region by evaluating moisture transport, precipitation, and evaporation in four state-of-the-art reanalyses against in situ and remote sensing data. The reanalyses reliably capture the main spatial and temporal features of the transport, in particular its two-layered structure. The upper layer, above 900 hPa, is marked by an anticyclonic circulation which has moisture enter in the northwest and exit in the southwest with little net effect. The lower layer is shaped by an influx of moisture from sea breezes during the day and an outflux during the night. However, the reanalyses underestimate daytime sea-breeze imports compared to radiosonde data, leading to a net average outward flow of moisture from the domain. This diurnal imbalance is likely not due to desert agriculture because the reanalyses do not explicitly consider irrigated cropland. Certain reanalyses also report nonphysical residual evaporation across the region, contradicting remote sensing data. Agreement between reanalyses and observations is better regarding precipitation because it is controlled in part through synoptic conditions. Despite the uncertainties, the magnitude of incoming transport relative to evaporation suggests that internal moisture recycling is negligible. As a consequence, increased evaporation due to incremental land-use changes and irrigation is unlikely to enhance regional rainfall.

Significance Statement

The societal demand for water is high in the Arabian Peninsula, but rainfall is scant. The locally sourced precipitation, originating from past rains or human usage rather than transport from remote regions, is expected to increase in response to additional irrigation. The regional hydrological budget in four reanalyses was established and tested against observations. The main features were consistent, including a recycling ratio in the mere single-digit percentages. Thus, irrigation losses are unlikely to be recouped as extra rainfall.