bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Ratiometric electrochemical detection of kojic acid based on glassy carbon modified MXene nanocomposite
Authors: Karuppaiah Gopi , Koyappayil Aneesh , Go Anna , Lee Min-Ho
Published: December 2023

Fabrication of MXene nanocomposite-based ratiometric electrochemical sensor for the selective and sensitive determination of Kojic acid (KA).
Janus interface enables reversible Zn-ion battery by regulating interfacial water structure and crystal-orientation
Authors: Liang Yuxuan , Qiu Meijia , Sun Peng , Mai Wenjie
Published: December 2023

A Janus additive can regulate the interfacial water network between an anode and electrolyte while induce orientational Zn(101) reversibly to inhibit various side-reactions and Zn dendrite growth, achieving greatly improved stability.
Tough polycyclooctene nanoporous membranes from etchable block copolymers
Authors: Hoehn Brenden D. , Kellstedt Elizabeth A. , Hillmyer Marc A.
Published: December 2023

Polycyclooctene-polylactide triblock copolymer synthesis and subsequent processing via solvent casting, polylactide etching, and plasma etching to yield tunable and tough nanoporous membranes with high surface porosities and hydrophilic properties.
Fabrication of site activated and synergistic double vacancy ZnIn2S4 for highly efficient bifunctional photocatalysis: nitrogen reduction and oxidative degradation
Authors: Xia Shengjie , Yuan Ziying , Meng Yue , Zhang Chen , Li Xianglong , Ni Zheming , Zhang Xueqiang
Published: December 2023

A novel methodology harnessing the synergistic influence of bimetallic and non-metallic dual vacancies within a unified catalyst for enabling highly efficient bifunctional photocatalysis encompassing oxidation and reduction processes is presented.
In situ wrapping carbon dots towards robust, durable and transparent tri-layer films with precise spectral conversion and excellent self-cleaning properties
Authors: Zhang Sainan , He Junhui
Published: December 2023

Based on solid-state fluorescent emission CDs, PDMS and hydrophobic fumed silica, the robust and transparent tri-layer films with UV-to-red spectral conversion and excellent superhydrophobic self-cleaning properties were designed and fabricated.
3D stem cell spheroids with urchin-like hydroxyapatite microparticles enhance osteogenesis of stem cells
Authors: Liu Hongmei , Ye Jianxin , Hu Hui , Song Yuheng , Qiang Huijun , Wang Junjun , Zhou Lei , Wang Xuefen , Fei Xiang , Zhu Meifang
Published: December 2023

E-uHA, an urchin-like hydroxyapatite using glutamic acid (E) as a co-template, is integrated with BMSCs via handing drop for spheroids with a low concentration, showing high cell viability, cell migration activity and excellent osteogenic potential.
Output controllability of impulsive Boolean control networks based on hybrid‐index model
Authors: Liang Qianya , Zhou Rongpei , Chen Jie , Ding Yong
Published: December 2023

In biological systems, impulses are often used to model mutations in gene expression. In order to describe the instantaneity of the impulse, this paper employs a hybrid‐index model of impulsive Boolean networks with state‐triggered impulses. Based on this model, the time‐domain output controllability is investigated. Using the quotient mapping method, the hybrid‐domain solutions of this model are mapped to the time‐domain solutions, mathematically. Then a necessary and sufficient condition for output controllability in the time domain is presented. Finally, an example is given to demonstrate the correctness and effectiveness of the obtained results.
Energy management of distribution network with inverter‐based renewable virtual power plant considering voltage security index
Authors: Azarhooshang Alireza , Rezazadeh Alireza
Published: December 2023

Virtual power plants (VPP) with resources and storages are able to control the active power of the network. They are also connected to the network through an inverter, which is capable of controlling reactive power. Therefore, it is expected that the optimal use of inverter‐based VPP can play an effective role in improving the economic and technical status of the distribution network. So, the operation of a smart distribution system is presented in this paper by considering inverter‐based VPPs constrained to the operator's measures. The weighted sum of expected energy loss (EEL) and voltage security index (VSI) is minimized while considering AC optimal power flow equations, restrictions of network's security, and operating model of the inverter‐based VPPs. Uncertainties with an origin of the amount of demand, renewable energy, and parameters of mobile energy storage are also discussed. The uncertainties are modelled using a stochastic optimization approach relying on the unscented transformation (UT). Evaluating inverter‐based VPP performance, providing models of flexible resources such as responsive loads and mobile storages, checking network voltage security status, and modelling uncertainties using the UT method are among the innovations of this study. According to the results, it is demonstrated that the technical situation of the distribution system is improved with the help of optimal management of the VPP. With energy management of the inverter‐based VPP, the suggested design has succeeded to enhance the operating status (voltage security) of the system by approximately 33–73% (12%) in comparison to power flow studies.
J-PLUS: Toward a homogeneous photometric calibration using Gaia BP/RP low-resolution spectra
Authors: López-Sanjuan C. , Vázquez Ramió H. , Xiao K. , Yuan H. , Carrasco J. M. , Varela J. , Cristóbal-Hornillos D. , Tremblay P.-E. , Ederoclite A. , Marín-Franch A. , Cenarro A. J. , Coelho P. R. T. , Daflon S. , del Pino A. , Domínguez Sánchez H. , Fernández-Ontiveros J. A. , Hernán-Caballero A. , Jiménez-Esteban F. M. , Alcaniz J. , Angulo R. E. , Dupke R. A. , Hernández-Monteagudo C. , Moles M. , Sodré L.
Published: December 2023

Aims. We present the photometric calibration of the 12 optical passbands for the Javalambre Photometric Local Universe Survey (J-PLUS) third data release (DR3) comprising 1642 pointings of two square degrees each.

Methods. We selected nearly 1.5 million main sequence stars with a signal-to-noise ratio larger than ten in the 12 J-PLUS passbands and available low-resolution (R = 20–80) spectrum from the blue and red photometers (BP/RP) in Gaia DR3. We compared the synthetic photometry from BP/RP spectra with the J-PLUS instrumental magnitudes after correcting for the magnitude and color terms between both systems in order to obtain a homogeneous photometric solution for J-PLUS. To circumvent the current limitations in the absolute calibration of the BP/RP spectra, the absolute color scale was derived using the locus of 109 white dwarfs closer than 100 pc with a negligible interstellar extinction. Finally, the absolute flux scale was anchored to the Panoramic Survey Telescope and Rapid Response System (Pan-STARRS) photometry in the r band.

Results. The precision of the J-PLUS photometric calibration estimated from duplicated objects observed in adjacent pointings and by comparison with the spectro-photometric standard star GD 153 is ~12 mmag in u, J0378, and J0395, and it is ~7 mmag in J0410, J0430, ɡ, J0515, r, J0660, i, J0861, and z. The estimated accuracy in the calibration along the surveyed area is better than 1% for all the passbands.

Conclusions. The Gaia BP/RP spectra provide a high-quality, homogeneous photometric reference in the optical range across the full sky in spite of their current limitations as an absolute reference. The calibration method for J-PLUS DR3 reaches an absolute precision and accuracy of 1% in the 12 optical filters within an area of 3284 square degrees.
Conception rate of artificial insemination using sexed frozen semen with albumin sedimentation method on Friesian Holstein cow
Authors: Hasan Ismail , Amalia Rika , Puspita Anugra Yekti Aulia , Wahjuningsih Sri , Susilawati Trinil
Published: December 2023

This study aimed to determine the success of Artificial Insemination (AI) using unsexed and sexed semen of albumin sedimentation method based on Non-Return Rate, Conception Rate, reproduction performance, estrus characters, and feed nutrition. This research was conducted from August to December 2022 in Bendosari Village, Pujon District, Malang Regency. The material used in this study was 76 Friesian Holstein (PFH) cows with the criteria of having a minimum Body Score Condition (BCS) of 2.5 (scale of 1-5), normal reproductive organs and showing signs of heat. Thirty-eight cows were inseminated with unsexed frozen semen and 38 with albumin sedimentation sexed semen. The results showed that the percentage value of CR in AI using unsexed frozen semen was 55.23%, while CR in AI using albumin sedimentation sexed was 60.53%. In conclusion, AI's success using frozen albumin sedimentation sexed semen shows better results than AI using unsexed frozen semen.
Retraction Note: Calculation of maximum allowable capacity coefficient for urban passenger transport
Authors: Scherbakov Alexander , Pushkarev Alexandr , Kuzmin Oleg , Vinogradova Tamara , Petrov Andrey
Published: December 2023

This paper has been formally retracted on ethical grounds because the article contains
extensive and repeated instances of plagiarism. The authors are responsible for this
mistake and apologise for it. Request approved by the proceedings Editor and the
Publisher on September 13, 2023.
Retraction Note: Multilayer maps of vehicle passability as a data source for solving transport problem
Authors: Scherbakov Alexander , Sokolov Sergey
Published: December 2023

This paper has been formally retracted on ethical grounds because the article contains
extensive and repeated instances of plagiarism. The authors are responsible for this
mistake and apologise for it. Request approved by the proceedings Editor and the
Publisher on September 13, 2023.
Retraction Note: Mathematical model for optimising drive suspension of a conveyor with suspended belt and distributed drive
Authors: Scherbakov Alexander , Breskich Vera , Deniskina Galina , Kharlamov Evgeniy
Published: December 2023

This paper has been formally retracted on ethical grounds because the article contains
extensive and repeated instances of plagiarism. The authors are responsible for this
mistake and apologise for it. Request approved by the proceedings Editor and the
Publisher on September 13, 2023.
Retraction Note: Calculation of stresses initiated by electrical explosion of conductors in a composite thick-walled cylinder
Authors: Scherbakov Alexander , Busakhin Alexey , Gusev Pavel , Deniskina Antonina
Published: December 2023

This paper has been formally retracted on ethical grounds because the article contains
extensive and repeated instances of plagiarism. The authors are responsible for this
mistake and apologise for it. Request approved by the proceedings Editor and the
Publisher on September 13, 2023.
Recent progress on limit theorems for large stochastic particle systems
Authors: Fathi Max , Le Bris Pierre , Menegaki Angeliki , Monmarche Pierre , Reygner Julien , Tomasevic Milica
Published: December 2023

This article presents a selection of recent results in the mathematical study of physical systems described by a large number of particles, with various types of interactions (mean-field, moderate, nearest-neighbor). Limit theorems are obtained concerning either the large-scale or the long-time behavior of these systems. These results rely on the use of a large range of mathematical tools, arising from both probability theory and the analysis of partial differential equations, and thereby illustrate fruitful interactions between these two disciplines.
On convex numerical schemes for inelastic contacts with friction
Authors: Bloch Helene , Lefebvre-Lepot Aline
Published: December 2023

This paper reviews the different existing Contact Dynamics schemes for the simulation of granular media, for which the discrete incremental problem is based on the resolution of convex problems. This type of discretization has the great advantage of allowing the use of standard convex optimization algorithms. In the case of frictional contacts, we consider schemes based on a convex relaxation of the constraint as well as a fixed point scheme. The model and the computations leading to the discrete problems are detailed in the case of convex, regular but not necessarily spherical particles. We prove, using basic tools of convex analysis, that the discrete optimization problem can be seen as a minimization problem of a global discrete energy for the system, in which the velocity to be considered is an average of the pre- and post-impact velocities. A numerical study on an academic test case is conducted, illustrating for the first time the convergence with order 1 in the time step of the different schemes. We also discuss the influence of the convex relaxation of the constraint on the behavior of the system. We show in particular that, although it induces numerical dilatation, it does not significantly modify the macrosopic behavior of a column collapse en 2d. The numerical tests are performed using the code SCoPI.
Real-time carotid plaque recognition from dynamic ultrasound videos based on artificial neural network
Authors: Wei Yao , Yang Bin , Wei Ling , Xue Jun , Zhu Yicheng , Li Jianchu , Qin Mingwei , Zhang Shuyang , Dai Qing , Yang Meng
Published: December 2023

Purpose Carotid ultrasound allows noninvasive assessment of vascular anatomy and function with real-time display. Based on the transfer learning method, a series of research results have been obtained on the optimal image recognition and analysis of static images. However, for carotid plaque recognition, there are high requirements for self-developed algorithms in real-time ultrasound detection. This study aims to establish an automatic recognition system, Be Easy to Use (BETU), for the real-time and synchronous diagnosis of carotid plaque from ultrasound videos based on an artificial neural network.

Materials and Methods 445 participants (mean age, 54.6±7.8 years; 227 men) were evaluated. Radiologists labeled a total of 3259 segmented ultrasound images from 445 videos with the diagnosis of carotid plaque, 2725 images were collected as a training dataset, and 554 images as a testing dataset. The automatic plaque recognition system BETU was established based on an artificial neural network, and remote application on a 5G environment was performed to test its diagnostic performance.

Results The diagnostic accuracy of BETU (98.5%) was consistent with the radiologist’s (Kappa = 0.967, P < 0.001). Remote diagnostic feedback based on BETU-processed ultrasound videos could be obtained in 150ms across a distance of 1023 km between the ultrasound/BETU station and the consultation workstation.

Conclusion Based on the good performance of BETU in real-time plaque recognition from ultrasound videos, 5G plus Artificial intelligence (AI)-assisted ultrasound real-time carotid plaque screening was achieved, and the diagnosis was made.
Geriatric Distal Femur Fractures Treated with Arthroplasty Are Associated with Lower Mortality but Greater Costs Compared with Open Reduction and Internal Fixation at 30 Days
Authors: Gwam Chukwuweike U. , Harmody Kristen Confroy , Luo T. David , Rosas Samuel , Plates Johannes
Published: December 2023

Distal femur fractures (DFFs) are common injuries with significant morbidity. Surgical options include open reduction and internal fixation (ORIF) with plates and/or intramedullary devices or a distal femur endoprosthesis (distal femur replacement [DFR]). A paucity of studies exist that compare the two modalities. The present study utilized a 1:2 propensity score match to compare 30-day outcomes of geriatric patients with DFFs who underwent an ORIF or DFR. The National Surgical Quality Improvement Program data from 2008 to 2019 were utilized to identify all patients who sustained a DFF and underwent either ORIF or DFR. This yielded 3,197 patients who underwent an ORIF versus 121 patients who underwent a DFR. A final sample of 363 patients (242 patients with ORIF vs. 121 with DFR) was obtained after a 1:2 propensity score match. Costs were obtained from the National Inpatient Sample database using multiple regression analysis and validated with a 7:3 train-test algorithm. Independent samples t-tests and chi-square analysis were conducted to assess cost and outcome differences, respectively. Patients who received a DFR had higher transfusion rates than ORIF (p = 0.021) and higher mean inpatient hospital costs (p = 0.001). Subgroup analysis for patients 80 years of age or older revealed higher 30-day unplanned readmission (0 vs. 18.2%; p < 0.001) and 30-day mortality (0 vs. 18.2%; p < 0.001) rates for patients undergoing ORIF compared with DFR. The total number of DFR cases needed to prevent one ORIF-related 30-day mortality for DFR for patients 80 years of age was 6 (95% confidence interval: 3.02–19.9). The mean hospital costs associated with preventing one case of death within 30 days from operation by undergoing DFR compared with ORIF was $176,021.39. Our results demonstrate higher rates of transfusion and increased inpatient costs among the DFR cohort compared with ORIF. However, we demonstrate lower rates of mortality for patients 80 years and older who underwent DFR versus ORIF. Future studies randomized controlled trials are necessary to validate the results of this study.
Mechanism of the Mitsunobu Reaction: An Ongoing Mystery
Authors: Kwon Ohyun , Croll Elizabeth A.
Published: December 2023

The Mitsunobu reaction is one the most widely known reactions in the organic chemistry canon. Despite its fame, some aspects of the mechanism remain poorly understood, 55 years after its initial discovery. This short review collates the findings of several publications focused on the mechanism of the Mitsunobu reaction, highlighting both the current state of knowledge and the remaining missing pieces.

1 Introduction

2 Mechanism Overview

3 Mechanistic Investigations

4 Conclusion
FSO2 Radical-Initiated Photoredox Cyclization of 4-Enoic Acids to Functionalized γ-Lactones
Authors: Liao Saihu , Fang Xin , Geng Xuebing , Wang Peng , Zhang Honghai
Published: December 2023

The incorporation of sulfonyl fluoride groups into molecules has been proven effective in enhancing their biological activities or introducing new functions. Herein, a transition-metal-free and visible-light-mediated radical tandem cyclization of unsaturated carboxylic acid is reported. This affords a facile access to FSO2-functionalized γ-lactones efficiently, which are critical structural motifs widely present in biologically active molecules.
Evaluation of Phenyldiazenyl as a Protective/Activating Group in Lithiation–Substitution Reactions of Tetrahydroisoquinolines
Authors: Singh Kamal Nain , Kaur Babaldeep , Kaur Manjot , Singh Pushpinder , Sharma Esha , Batra Aanchal , Kaur Amarjit
Published: December 2023

Phenyldiazenyl moiety has been utilized both as a protective and activating group to synthesize C-1-substituted tetrahydroisoquinolines via lithiation–substitution strategy. This reaction sequence involves generation of α-amino carbanions, derived from N-phenyldiazenyl tetrahydroisoquinolines, followed by coupling with various electrophiles, e.g., aldehyde, ketones, alkyl halide, oxiranes, isocyanates, and with in situ generated arynes. Deprotection of the protecting group was carried out under acidic conditions to afford the desired α-substituted products in moderate to good yields. So, triazene as a protecting/directing group and its compatibility with strong bases provide a good synthetic utility for the synthesis of a variety of α-substituted secondary amines via lithiation substitution reaction.
Advanced Pediatric-Type Follicular Lymphoma, Consequences of a Late Presentation in a Resource-Poor Setting: Case Report and Literature Review
Authors: Nlemadim Anthony Chibueze , Ugbem Theophilus Ipeh , Udie Gabriel Unimke , Omini Godwin Cletus , Izekor Eghomwanre Davis , Adedokun Olufunke Folaranmi , Asuquo Ekaete Joseph , Meremikwu Martin Madu , Odey Friday Akwagiobe
Published: December 2023

Pediatric-type follicular lymphoma (PFL) is a rare, nonaggressive, slow-growing (indolent), non-Hodgkin lymphoma that is typically seen in males as a localized disease with excellent outcomes. It is largely different from follicular lymphoma (FL). Few published studies on PFL are case series in developed nations. We report on a patient with advanced PFL, a 14-year-old female with 5-year history of neck swellings, abdominal distension for a month, and pericardial effusion, among others. The swellings waxed and waned; and involved all the peripheral lymph nodes. Tuberculosis (TB) GeneXpert and human immunodeficiency virus (HIV) screening were negative. She received anti-TB drugs prior to presentation in our hospital where nodal histopathology showed effaced architecture with diffuse follicles and abundant blastoid cells as well as negative CD5 and BCL2, and positive CD10 and CD20. Diagnosis of PFL (stage 3) was made. She completed six courses of cyclophosphamide, doxorubicin, vincristine, and prednisolone and is well 9 months after therapy. The PFL usually presents with stage 1 or 2 disease unlike in the index female case that was also complicated by effusion and ascites due to late presentation. It responded to chemotherapy and has not reoccurred; in contrast to classic FL and reactive follicular hyperplasia (RFH) which should be differentiated from PFL. Although RFH can be caused by TB or HIV, they are not causes of malignant lymphadenopathy. Physicians should be aware of PFL which may present in high clinical stages, but still retain its good prognosis, for the purposes of counseling.
Male Contraception
Authors: Amory John K.
Published: December 2023

Approximately 40 to 50% of pregnancies are unintended. Contraceptive use significantly reduces the risk of unintended pregnancy. Approximately 70% of couples' contraceptive use is female and 30% is male, attributable to the reliance on condoms and vasectomies. Unfortunately, many women cannot use currently available contraceptives due to medical contraindications or side effects. At the same time, men want additional safe and effective contraceptive methods. Because of this, work to develop novel, safe, and effective male contraceptives is underway. This review will briefly discuss the pros and cons of condoms and vasectomies, and then describe research into the development of novel methods of male contraception, by the mechanism of action of the contraceptive. First, we will discuss male contraceptives that block sperm transmission. Next, we will discuss male contraceptives that impair sperm production. Lastly, we will discuss male contraceptives that impair sperm function.
The right and justice of subsistence wars as necessity: a Grotian account
Authors: Matsumoto Masakazu
Published: December 2023

Subsistence wars revolve around the use of force exercised by those faced with hunger, deprivation, and other survival crises. This idea has been formulated as an act emerging from the right of self-defense in the ethics of war literature. Alternatively, this study attempts to conceptualize and justify it with the notion of the right of necessity derived from Hugo Grotius. The structural difference between self-defense and necessity highlights strict just war conditions that must be met before, during, and after waging a subsistence war, especially when it emerges from the right of necessity. The idea of waging a war out of necessity seems too permissive; in fact, it has a regulatory aspect as well. Given the significance of the right to subsistence, which is universally shared yet globally threatened, the war of subsistence is to be seen as a real and pressing concern in current and future international society.
Laboratory investigation of the plume-to-plume interaction in a rotating tank
Authors: Song Haochen , Yuan Yeping , Lin Ying-Tien , Wang Yuntao , Song Jinbao
Published: December 2023

This paper aims to understand the characteristics and dynamical processes of two rotating buoyant fluids (two adjacent river plumes) under ideal geostrophic conditions and further reveal their interaction mechanism. Experimental studies were conducted on a rotating tank, where the discharge (Qup) and density anomaly (g′up) in the upstream inflow were modified to investigate the resultant dynamics over two plumes. Instantaneous velocity fields were measured using the particle image velocimetry to re-construct the 3D plume structure. Based on high-resolution velocity measurements, the upstream coastal current wraps around the downstream bulge and transports further downstream, in association with the downstream coastal current. An alongshore transport equilibrium theory applicable to the plume-to-plume system was proposed to classify the plume alignment types at the laboratory scale. We discover that the increasing Qup or g′up promotes the alongshore transport and inhibits the offshore extension of the downstream bulge. The g′up adjustment decides the alignment types of two interacting plumes, while the Qup adjustment determines the degree of the interaction effect. Coastal currents transform from parallel to vertical alignment as g′up decreases until they become weak coastal currents where the alignment cannot be recognized. The alignment types directly modify the mass and momentum dynamic balance and can further affect the mass exchange between plume water and ambient water. The mechanisms of two interacting plumes provide a comprehensive perspective on the multi-source river plume system in nature, such as adjacent mountainous rivers, delta estuaries, and buoyancy-driven coastal current systems.
Rigid electrodes enhance the strain and force output of Peano-HASEL actuators
Authors: Hu Qilin , Jiang Chongjie , Xie Yu , Zhou Wei , Qin Lifeng , Wang Yancheng , Pan Hemin , Luo Tao
Published: December 2023

Peano-HASEL (hydraulic amplified self-healing electrostatic) actuators represent a recent advancement in the field of muscle-like soft actuators. They typically consist of flexible electrodes, a flexible and inextensible shell, and liquid dielectric. However, Peano-HASEL actuators employing flexible electrodes can only utilize the electrostatic force generated by a limited area of electrodes to maintain compression of the liquid, resulting in a restricted strain and force outputs. In this Letter, we show that a Peano-HASEL actuator employing rigid electrodes exhibits a significantly enhanced strain and force output. Compared to the conventional flexible-electrode Peano-HASEL actuator, the actuator with rigid electrodes demonstrates a remarkable improvement, with a more than 200% increase in strain output and a more than 140% increase in force output. Notably, we successfully showcase the capability of a Peano-HASEL actuator with rigid electrodes to reliably lift a 50 g load at an 8 kV voltage, a task that the counterpart with flexible electrodes of the same electrode length, width, and oil volume fails to accomplish. This highlights the great potential of rigid-electrode Peano-HASEL actuators for applications such as robotic manipulation.
Strong coupling in mechanically flexible free-standing organic membranes
Authors: Georgiou Kyriacos , Athanasiou Modestos , Jayaprakash Rahul , Lidzey David G. , Itskos Grigorios , Othonos Andreas
Published: December 2023

Strong coupling of a confined optical field to the excitonic or vibronic transitions of a molecular material results in the formation of new hybrid states called polaritons. Such effects have been extensively studied in Fabry–Pèrot microcavity structures where an organic material is placed between two highly reflective mirrors. Recently, theoretical and experimental evidence has suggested that strong coupling can be used to modify chemical reactivity as well as molecular photophysical functionalities. However, the geometry of conventional microcavity structures limits the ability of molecules “encapsulated” in a cavity to interact with their local environment. Here, we fabricate mirrorless organic membranes that utilize the refractive index contrast between the organic active material and its surrounding medium to confine an optical field with Q-factor values up to 33. Using angle-resolved white light reflectivity measurements, we confirm that our structures operate in the strong coupling regime, with Rabi-splitting energies between 60 and 80 meV in the different structures studied. The experimental results are matched by transfer matrix and coupled oscillator models that simulate the various polariton states of the free standing membranes. Our work demonstrates that mechanically flexible and easy-to-fabricate free standing membranes can support strong light–matter coupling, making such simple and versatile structures highly promising for a range of polariton applications.
The role of spin–orbit interaction in low thermal conductivity of Mg3Bi2
Authors: Hung Nguyen Tuan
Published: December 2023

Three-dimensional layered Mg3Bi2 has emerged as a thermoelectric material due to its high cooling performance at ambient temperature, which benefits from its low lattice thermal conductivity and semimetal character. However, the semimetal character of Mg3Bi2 is sensitive to spin–orbit coupling (SOC). Thus, the underlying origin of low lattice thermal conductivity needs to be clarified in the presence of the SOC. In this work, the first-principles calculations within the two-channel model are employed to investigate the effects of the SOC on the phonon–phonon scattering on the phonon transport of Mg3Bi2. Our results show that the SOC strongly reduces the lattice thermal conductivity (up to ∼35%). This reduction originates from the influence of the SOC on the transverse acoustic modes involving interlayer shearing, leading to weak interlayer bonding and enhancement anharmonicity around 50 cm−1. Our results clarify the mechanism of low thermal conductivity in Mg3Bi2 and support the design of Mg3Bi2-based materials for thermoelectric applications.
Thermalization of radiation-induced electrons in wide-bandgap materials: A first-principles approach
Authors: Nielsen Dallin O. , Fischetti Massimo V.
Published: December 2023

The present study is concerned with simulating the thermalization of high-energy charge carriers (electrons and/or electron–hole pairs), generated by ionizing radiation, in diamond and β-Ga2O3. Computational tools developed by the nuclear/particle physics and electronic device communities allow for accurate simulation of charge-carrier transport and thermalization in the high-energy (exceeding ∼100 eV) and low-energy (below ∼10 eV) regimes, respectively. Between these energy regimes, there is an intermediate energy range of about 10–100 eV, which we call the “10–100 eV gap,” in which the energy-loss processes are historically not well studied or understood. To close this “gap,” we use a first-principles approach (density functional theory) to calculate the band structure of diamond and β-Ga2O3 up to ∼100 eV along with the phonon dispersion, carrier-phonon matrix elements, and dynamic dielectric function. Additionally, using the first-order perturbation theory (Fermi's golden rule/first Born approximation), we calculate the carrier-phonon scattering rates and the carrier energy-loss rates (impact ionization and plasmon scattering). With these data, we simulate the thermalization of 100-eV electrons and the generated electron–hole pairs by solving the semiclassical Boltzmann transport equation using Monte Carlo techniques. We find that electron thermalization is complete within ∼0.4 and ∼1.0 ps for diamond and β-Ga2O3, respectively, while holes thermalize within ∼0.5 ps for both. We also calculate electron–hole pair creation energies of 12.87 and 11.24 eV, respectively.
Empowering our First Nations workforce: evaluation of a First Nations COVID-19 vaccination training program
Authors: Cowley Sean , Baigrie Karina , Panaretto Katie , Trudgen Kelly , Clements Vanessa , Whitehead Oscar , Lacey Rica
Published: December 2023

Background A COVID-19 vaccination training program was designed for Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander (First Nations) health workers and practitioners in Queensland to expand their scope of practice to include COVID-19 immunisation. In the setting of a global pandemic, the project aimed to improve vaccination levels and show how First Nations staff are central to community-led responses to effectively address their community’s health needs. Methods The program, consisting of an online module and face to face workshop, is described and then evaluated with the RE–AIM framework via mixed methods of participant training surveys and qualitative feedback. Results The program reached 738 online and 329 workshop participants with the majority identifying as First Nations. The 52 workshops were attended by participants from 12 different hospital and health services in Queensland and 13 Aboriginal Community Controlled Health Organisations (ACCHOs). Feedback was positive, with participants rating the training highly. Of the First Nations Health Workers and Practitioners who responded to the workshop follow up survey, the majority (34/40) implemented their new skills in practice helping minimise the impact of COVID-19 outbreaks in their community. Most respondents (38/40) considered vaccination should be permanently in their scope of practice. Conclusions The successful implementation of the vaccination training project was an example of First Nations led health care. Improving scope of practice for First Nations health staff can improve not just career retention and progression but also the delivery of primary care to a community that continues to bear the inequity of poorer health outcomes.
Interpretation of presynaptic phenotypes of synaptic plasticity in terms of a two-step priming process
Authors: Neher Erwin
Published: December 2023

Studies on synaptic proteins involved in neurotransmitter release often aim at distinguishing between their roles in vesicle priming (the docking of synaptic vesicles to the plasma membrane and the assembly of a release machinery) as opposed to the process of vesicle fusion. This has traditionally been done by estimating two parameters, the size of the pool of fusion-competent vesicles (the readily releasable pool, RRP) and the probability that such vesicles are released by an action potential, with the aim of determining how these parameters are affected by molecular perturbations. Here, it is argued that the assumption of a homogeneous RRP may be too simplistic and may blur the distinction between vesicle priming and fusion. Rather, considering priming as a dynamic and reversible multistep process allows alternative interpretations of mutagenesis-induced changes in synaptic transmission and suggests mechanisms for variability in synaptic strength and short-term plasticity among synapses, as well as for interactions between short- and long-term plasticity. In many cases, assigned roles of proteins or causes for observed phenotypes are shifted from fusion- to priming-related when considering multistep priming. Activity-dependent enhancement of priming is an essential element in this alternative view and its variation among synapse types can explain why some synapses show depression and others show facilitation at low to intermediate stimulation frequencies. Multistep priming also suggests a mechanism for frequency invariance of steady-state release, which can be observed in some synapses involved in sensory processing.
Gravitational traces of bumblebee gravity in metric–affine formalism
Authors: Araújo Filho A A , Hassanabadi H , Heidari N , Kr̆íz̆ J , Zare S
Published: December 2023

This work explores various manifestations of bumblebee gravity within the metric–affine formalism. We investigate the impact of the Lorentz violation parameter, denoted as X, on the modification of the Hawking temperature. Our calculations reveal that as X increases, the values of the Hawking temperature attenuate. To examine the behavior of massless scalar perturbations, specifically the quasinormal modes, we employ the Wentzel–Kramers–Brillouin method. The transmission and reflection coefficients are determined through our calculations. The outcomes indicate that a stronger Lorentz–violating parameter results in slower damping oscillations of gravitational waves. To comprehend the influence of the quasinormal spectrum on time–dependent scattering phenomena, we present a detailed analysis of scalar perturbations in the time–domain solution. Additionally, we conduct an investigation on shadows, revealing that larger values of X correspond to larger shadow radii. Furthermore, we constrain the magnitude of the shadow radii using the EHT horizon–scale image of

S
g
r

A
∗

. Finally, we calculate both the time delay and the deflection angle.
Fractional cosmic strings
Authors: Fumeron Sébastien , Henkel Malte , López Alexander
Published: December 2023

Topological defects are investigated in the framework of quantum gravity models based on the hypothesis of an effective fractal dimension of the Universe. From a minimal coupling procedure, the tools of fractional calculus are used to determine the geometry associated to a fractional cosmic string. Several results for the propagation of light are discussed, notably the light-deviation angle due to the defect and the geodesics of light.
Joint optimization of seismometer arrays for the cancellation of Newtonian noise from seismic body waves in the Einstein Telescope
Authors: Badaracco Francesca , Harms Jan , Rei Luca
Published: December 2023

Seismic Newtonian noise (NN) is predicted to limit the sensitivity of the Einstein Telescope (ET). It can be reduced with coherent noise cancellation techniques using data from seismometers. To achieve the best results, it is important to place the seismic sensors in optimal positions. A preliminary study on this topic was conducted for the ET: it focused on the optimization of the seismic array for the cancellation of NN at an isolated test mass (TM). In this paper, we expand the study to include the nested shape of ET, i.e. four TMs of the low-frequency interferometers at each vertex of the detector. Results are investigated in function of the polarization content of the seismic field composed of body waves. The study also examines how performance can be affected by displacing the sensor array from its optimal position or by operating at frequencies other than those used for optimization.
Low-profile reconfigurable saline water-based ultrawideband metamaterial absorber
Authors: Xue Huachen , Liu Liangliang , Cong Hui , Fu Zhepeng , Zhu Zhengtao , Shen Dan , Li Zhuo
Published: December 2023

Saline water solutions are widely used in the design of electromagnetic (EM) absorbers due to their high dielectric loss. However, most of the saline water solution-based absorbers are not reconfigurable. In this work, we propose a low-profile, reconfigurable saline water-based ultra-wideband metamaterial absorber. Two types of dielectric resonators, pyramid-shaped and cube-shaped cavities, are filled with saline water to create multi-frequency resonances and realize ultra-wideband absorption. We fabricate an absorber sample with 3D-printing technology and conduct experiments. It is demonstrated that the absorber exhibits an absorptivity of over 90% for EM waves within 6.7–63 GHz, with a relative bandwidth of 161.5%. The absorption performance remains stable under different incident angles of different polarizations, and the absorber can maintain a high absorbing capacity at different temperatures. Emptying the saline water causes complete reflection of all EM waves from 1 GHz to 53 GHz. Furthermore, the infrared radiation of the absorber can be effectively controlled at a low level by introducing cryogenic saline water. This saline-based reconfigurable absorber can find potential applications in EM camouflage and protection in military scenarios.
Characteristics of high-repetition-rate bipolar pulse DBD under various electrical conditions in atmospheric-pressure air
Authors: Kim Seong-Hun , Yun Ung-Hui , Kim Jin-Gyu
Published: December 2023

Numerous studies have been conducted on pulse dielectric barrier discharge (DBD) because it can produce powerful discharges uniformly at atmospheric pressure with a fast rise time. Although much research has been conducted on pulse DBD below 10 kHz, relatively little has been conducted on pulse DBD at high pulse repetition rates (PRRs). Therefore, in this study, the ozone generation and discharge characteristics of bipolar pulse DBD in atmospheric-pressure air at a high PRR of 10 kHz or above were investigated. According to the results of this study, with the exception of electron temperature, most discharge characteristics need for practical applications—like transfer charge, electron density, and discharge uniformity—improved as the voltage and duty ratio increased at high PRR. On the contrary, increasing the PRR exhibited trade-off features like low electron temperature, low discharge uniformity, and a high number of discharges per unit time. Ozone generation demonstrated good results at high voltage, appropriate PRR, and low duty ratio, but applying suitable electrical conditions is crucial considering ozone generation speed and power consumption. The findings of this study will be very beneficial for high-PRR pulse DBD applications that require quick and effective processing. Additionally, they will be useful for researching the characteristics of pulse DBD at high PRR.
Influence of long- and short-range chemical order on spontaneous magnetization in single-crystalline Fe0.6Al0.4 compound thin films
Authors: Toyoki Kentaro , Kitaguchi Daigo , Shiratsuchi Yu , Nakatani Ryoichi
Published: December 2023

We systematically investigate the long- and short-range chemical order, lattice volume, and spontaneous magnetization in single-crystalline Fe0.6Al0.4 compound thin films. The vapor-quenching method based on a molecular beam epitaxy technique is utilized to fabricate the single-crystalline Fe0.6Al0.4 compound with the different B2 long-range order parameter S. S was varied by the deposition temperature T
d, and it increases with increasing T
d. The lattice volume V decreased with increasing T
d, while the tetragonal distortion, ∼4%, due to epitaxial strain were observed. The changes in S and V were accompanied with the change in the magnetic moment per Fe, μ
Fe. μ
Fe showed the monotonic decrease as a function of S whereas μ
Fe monotonically increases with V. With considering tetragonal distortion, μ
Fe–V relationship has a good agreement with the previous reports. The μ
Fe–S relationship showed the steep decrease of μ
Fe around S∼ 0.6. In contrast to μ
Fe–V relationship, μ
Fe–S relationship does not match only from ours to previous studies but also among other reports. It implies the statistical number of the nearest-neighbor Fe–Fe bonds, i.e. S, cannot be an enough explanatory parameter. To clarify the structural origin of change in μ
Fe, the short-range order (SRO) parameter inferred from the analysis of superlattice diffractions were introduced. They showed the clear difference for the films with high and low μ
Fe. The results suggest that the transition from the long- to the SRO state plays the significant role on μ
Fe.
Improving sub-pixel accuracy in ultrasound localization microscopy using supervised and self-supervised deep learning
Authors: Zhang Zeng , Hwang Misun , Kilbaugh Todd J , Katz Joseph
Published: December 2023

With a spatial resolution of tens of microns, ultrasound localization microscopy (ULM) reconstructs microvascular structures and measures intravascular flows by tracking microbubbles (1–5 μm) in contrast enhanced ultrasound (CEUS) images. Since the size of CEUS bubble traces, e.g. 0.5–1 mm for ultrasound with a wavelength λ = 280 μm, is typically two orders of magnitude larger than the bubble diameter, accurately localizing microbubbles in noisy CEUS data is vital to the fidelity of the ULM results. In this paper, we introduce a residual learning based supervised super-resolution blind deconvolution network (SupBD-net), and a new loss function for a self-supervised blind deconvolution network (SelfBD-net), for detecting bubble centers at a spatial resolution finer than λ/10. Our ultimate purpose is to improve the ability to distinguish closely located microvessels and the accuracy of the velocity profile measurements in macrovessels. Using realistic synthetic data, the performance of these methods is calibrated and compared against several recently introduced deep learning and blind deconvolution techniques. For bubble detection, errors in bubble center location increase with the trace size, noise level, and bubble concentration. For all cases, SupBD-net yields the least error, keeping it below 0.1 λ. For unknown bubble trace morphology, where all the supervised learning methods fail, SelfBD-net can still maintain an error of less than 0.15 λ. SupBD-net also outperforms the other methods in separating closely located bubbles and parallel microvessels. In macrovessels, SupBD-net maintains the least errors in the vessel radius and velocity profile after introducing a procedure that corrects for terminated tracks caused by overlapping traces. Application of these methods is demonstrated by mapping the cerebral microvasculature of a neonatal pig, where neighboring microvessels separated by 0.15 λ can be readily distinguished by SupBD-net and SelfBD-net, but not by the other techniques. Hence, the newly proposed residual learning based methods improve the spatial resolution and accuracy of ULM in micro- and macro-vessels.
Overcoming the challenges of performing metasurface-based general spatial transfer functions
Authors: Jalil-Abadi Fatemeh Sedaghat , Habibiyan Hamidreza
Published: December 2023

The concept of performing mathematical operations with metasurfaces has been suggested by Silva et al (Science 343, 160 (2014)). However, their proposed structure in implementing any transfer function (corresponding to any mathematical operator) for various input signals faces limitations. To tackle this issue, in this study, four different scenarios are proposed on their metasurface-based structure to generalize in a way that can implement each spatial transfer function. To evaluate the performance of the presented scenarios, seven different transfer functions are simulated to encompass a wide range of mathematical operators in the spatial domain. The implementations are based on the Fourier approach. Simulation results based on the finite element method closely match the desired values. From the results of this study, it can be seen that the third and fourth scenarios provide better accuracy. For example, when the fifth transfer function is performed by the basic structure and the fourth scenario, the normalized root mean square error, decreases from the value of 0.235 to the value of 0.0348, respectively. Furthermore, a tunable structure is achievable using the third scenario to produce different operators on the same structure. The realization of these scenarios is possible by using nanostructure-based metasurfaces.