bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Consistency of Faraday cup and ionization chamber dosimetry of proton fields and the role of nuclear interactions
Authors: Wulff Jörg , Paul Anne , Bäcker Claus Maximilian , Baumann Kilian‐Simon , Esser Johannes Niklas , Koska Benjamin , Timmermann Beate , Verbeek Nico Gerd , Bäumer Christian 
Published: November 2023

AbstractBackgroundA Faraday cup (FC) facilitates a quite clean measurement of the proton fluence emerging from clinical spot‐scanning nozzles with narrow pencil‐beams. The utilization of FCs appears to be an attractive option for high dose rate delivery modes and the source models of Monte‐Carlo (MC) dose engines. However, previous studies revealed discrepancies of 3%–6% between reference dosimetry with ionization chambers (ICs) and FC‐based dosimetry. This has prevented the widespread use of FCs for dosimetry in proton therapy.PurposeThe current study aims at bridging the gap between FC dosimetry and IC dosimetry of proton fields delivered with spot‐scanning treatment heads. Particularly, a novel method to evaluate FC measurements is introduced.MethodsA consistency check is formulated, which makes use of the energy balance and the reciprocity theorem. The measurement data comprise central‐axis depth distributions of the absorbed dose of quasi‐monochromatic fields with a width of about 28.5 cm and FC measurements of the reciprocal fields with a single spot. These data are complemented by a look‐up of energy‐range tables, the average Q‐value of transmutations, and the escape energy carried away by neutrons and photons. The latter data are computed by MC simulations, which in turn are validated with measurements of the distal dose tail and neutron out‐of‐field doses. For comparison, the conventional approach of FC evaluation is performed, which computes absorbed dose from the product of fluence and stopping power. The results from the FC measurements are compared with the standard dosimetry protocols and improved reference dosimetry methods.ResultsThe deviation between the conventional FC‐based dosimetry and the IC‐based one according to standard dosimetry protocols was −4.7 ( 3.3)% for a 100 MeV field and −3.6 (3.5)% for 200 MeV, thereby agreeing within the reported uncertainties. The deviations could be reduced to −4.0 ( 2.9)% and −3.0 ( 3.1)% by adopting state‐of‐the‐art reference dosimetry methods. The alternative approach using the energy balance gave deviations of only −1.9% (100 MeV) and −2.6% (200 MeV) using state‐of‐the‐art dosimetry. The standard uncertainty of this novel approach was estimated to be about 2%.ConclusionsAn alternative concept has been established to determine the absorbed dose of monoenergetic proton fields with an FC. It eliminates the strong dependence of the conventional FC‐based approach on the MC simulation of the stopping‐power and of the secondary ions, which according to the study at hand is the major contributor to the underestimation of the absorbed dose. Some contributions to the uncertainty of the novel approach could potentially be reduced in future studies. This would allow for accurate consistency tests of conventional dosimetry procedures.
Technical note: High‐dose and ultra‐high dose rate (UHDR) evaluation of Al2O3:C optically stimulated luminescent dosimeter nanoDots and powdered LiF:Mg,Ti thermoluminescent dosimeters for radiation therapy applications
Authors: Liu Kevin , Velasquez Brett , Schüler Emil 
Published: November 2023

AbstractBackgroundDosimetry in ultra‐high dose rate (UHDR) electron beamlines poses a significant challenge owing to the limited usability of standard dosimeters in high dose and high dose‐per‐pulse (DPP) applications.PurposeIn this study, Al2O3:C nanoDot optically stimulated luminescent dosimeters (OSLDs), single‐use powder‐based LiF:Mg,Ti thermoluminescent dosimeters (TLDs), and Gafchromic EBT3 film were evaluated at extended dose ranges (up to 40 Gy) in conventional dose rate (CONV) and UHDR beamlines to determine their usability for calibration and dose verification in the setting of FLASH radiation therapy.MethodsOSLDs and TLDs were evaluated against established dose‐rate–independent Gafchromic EBT3 film with regard to the potential influence of mean dose rate, instantaneous dose rate, and DPP on signal response. The dosimeters were irradiated at CONV or UHDR conditions on a 9‐MeV electron beam. Under UHDR conditions, different settings of pulse repetition frequency (PRF), pulse width (PW), and pulse amplitude were used to characterize the individual dosimeters’ response in order to isolate their potential dependencies on dose, dose rate, and DPP.ResultsThe OSLDs, TLDs, and Gafchromic EBT3 film were found to be suitable at a dose range of up to 40 Gy without any indication of saturation in signal. The response of OSLDs and TLDs in UHDR conditions were found to be independent of mean dose rate (up to 1440 Gy/s), instantaneous dose rate (up to 2 MGy/s), and DPP (up to 7 Gy), with uncertainties on par with nominal values established in CONV beamlines (± 4%). In cross‐comparing the response of OSLDs, TLDs and Gafchromic film at dose rates of 0.18–245 Gy/s, the coefficient of variation or relative standard deviation in the measured dose between the three dosimeters (inter‐dosimeter comparison) was found to be within 2%.ConclusionsWe demonstrated the dynamic range of OSLDs, TLDs, and Gafchromic film to be suitable up to 40 Gy, and we developed a protocol that can be used to accurately translate the measured signal in each respective dosimeter to dose. OSLDs and powdered TLDs were shown to be viable for dosimetric measurement in UHDR beamlines, providing dose measurements with accuracies on par with Gafchromic EBT3 film and their concurrent use demonstrating a means for redundant dosimetry in UHDR conditions.
Effects of manganese concentration and temperature on the ferromagnetism of manganese‐doped gallium arsenide semiconductor
Authors: Abera Birhanu , Mekuye Bawoke 
Published: November 2023

AbstractThe main objective of the review was to investigate the ferromagnetism of diluted magnetic semiconductors made of Mn‐doped GaAs. Manganese‐doped gallium arsenide has recently become an important field of research because of its potential applications in the fields of spintronics and magnetic devices. The magnetic moment caused by adding manganese to the GaAs crystal structure causes a low‐temperature ferromagnetic behavior. The main factor that affects the ferromagnetic properties of Mn‐doped gallium arsenic is manganese concentration. Understanding the relationship between Mn concentration and magnetic properties is important for material optimization in specific applications. It was found that Mn‐doped GaAs exhibit paramagnetic behavior below a specific critical concentration. However, the substance is transformed into a ferromagnetic state over the maximum concentration. The Curie temperature is an important additional factor influencing the ferromagnetic properties of Mn‐doped GaAs. The temperature at which a material ceases to exhibit ferromagnetic behavior is known as the Curie temperature. The Curie temperature of a material depends on its Mn concentration, thin film thickness, and degree of disturbance. A reduction in magnetic resistance increases the concentration of Mn‐treated gallium arsenic and increases its rate as it reaches its maximum value. High Curie temperatures are the result of stronger magnetic interactions resulting from higher manganese concentrations. The specific heat capacity of Mn‐doped gallium arsenide is influenced by its magnetic and structural contribution.
An Analysis of Political Contributions from Otolaryngologists in the United States
Authors: Fish Taylor R. , Lefkowitz Jonathan , Galar Federico , Markham Dane J. , Imber Paul , Denneny James C. , Chen Philip G. 
Published: November 2023

AbstractObjectiveDoctors can influence the development of sound healthcare policy through financial contributions to political campaigns and candidates. Our objective was to characterize the political contributions of otolaryngologists in the United States, both individually and through the ENT Political Action Committee (ENTPAC) between the years 2003 and 2020.Study DesignRetrospective observational study.SettingPublicly available information on the internet: fec.gov.MethodsThe Federal Election Commission's website, fec.gov, was used to identify the political contributions of individual otolaryngologists and the ENTPAC between 2003 and 2020. Each contribution is associated with a political group or candidate, designated as a Republican, Democratic, or Independent entity.ResultsA total of 1407 distinct political contributions were made by individuals identifying as otolaryngologists between 2003 and 2020, totaling $432,201. Overall, Republicans received more individual donations than Democrats (711 vs 540), while Democrats received more money ($231,139 vs $183,427). Donations peaked during election years, with the total amount overall increasing each election year ($9664 in 2004 vs $75,102 in 2020). The predominant political party receiving donations between 2003 and 2020 in each US state matched each state's predominant party of the governors and senators 48.6% of the time. The ENTPAC donated $3,027,383 between 2003 and 2020 to a variety of political candidates and entities.ConclusionOtolaryngologists are making increased political contributions over time and interest in political advocacy may be at an all‐time high. Increased time and attention should be devoted to educating otolaryngologists to best politically advocate for interests which are of the most importance to themselves and the profession.
The more the merrier? Perceived forest biodiversity promotes short‐term mental health and well‐being—A multicentre study
Authors: Rozario Kevin , Oh Rachel Rui Ying , Marselle Melissa , Schröger Erich , Gillerot Loïc , Ponette Quentin , Godbold Douglas , Haluza Daniela , Kilpi Katriina , Müller Dagmar , Roeber Urte , Verheyen Kris , Muys Bart , Müller Sandra , Shaw Taylor , Bonn Aletta 
Published: November 2023

Abstract

Forests can foster mental health and well‐being. Yet, the contribution of forest biodiversity remains unclear, and experimental research is needed to unravel pathways of biodiversity–health linkages. Here, we assess the role of tree species richness, both actual and perceived, and how stress reduction and attention restoration can serve as potential mediating pathways to achieve positive mental health and well‐being outcomes.

We conducted an experimental, multicentric field study in three peri‐urban forests in Europe, employing a mixed design with 223 participants, that comprised 20‐min stays in forests with either low, medium or high tree species richness or a built control. Participants' short‐term mental health and well‐being and saliva cortisol as a biomarker of stress were measured before and after the intervention.

Forest visits for 20 min were found to be beneficial for participants' short‐term mental health, short‐term mental well‐being, subjective stress, subjective directed attention and perceived restorativeness compared with a built environment. No differences were found for the physiological stress indicator saliva cortisol, which decreased in both the forest and the built environments.

Increased perceived biodiversity—possibly linked to structural forest attributes—was significantly associated with well‐being outcomes, while no association was found for differences in actual tree species richness. Structural equation modelling indicates that higher levels of perceived biodiversity had an indirect effect on short‐term mental health and well‐being through enhancing perceived restorativeness.

While we found no evidence of actual tree species richness effects, perceived biodiversity was associated with positive short‐term mental health and well‐being outcomes. Understanding these biodiversity–health linkages can inform conservation management and help develop effective nature‐based interventions for promoting public health through nature visits.

Read the free Plain Language Summary for this article on the Journal blog.
Investigation of KOH‐doped PVA‐based membrane electrolytes cross‐linked with tartaric acid for DMAFCs
Authors: Murat Tamer , Levent Akyalçın , Süleyman Kaytakoğlu 
Published: November 2023

AbstractThis research focused on the development of anion exchange membrane electrolytes suitable for direct methanol alkaline fuel cells (DMAFC) by employing a straightforward blending and solution casting process complemented by subsequent heat treatment. Tartaric acid (TA) was employed as a cross‐linking agent to enhance the heat resistance and structural integrity of the PVA matrix. The distinctive attributes of the PT (PVA and tartaric acid blend) samples, including water absorption and swelling capacity, were comprehensively investigated with respect to variations in both TA content (expressed as wt. % relative to the PVA matrix) and alterations in the duration of thermal treatment. Cross‐link formation between the polymer chains and TA was determined using FTIR analysis. The samples were subjected to comprehensive analysis, encompassing the determination of crystallinity via X‐ray diffraction (XRD), assessment of thermal stability using thermogravimetric analysis (TGA), investigation of morphology through scanning electron microscopy (SEM), and measurement of ionic conductivity using AC Impedance spectroscopy. The methanol permeability was measured to determine the selectivity values of the membranes. Subsequently, within the DMAFC system, the performances of the PT30‐3, PT40‐2, and PT40‐3 membranes, which exhibited the highest selectivities, were assessed. The contribution of the crosslinking process to the resistance of the membranes to oxidative conditions, as represented by the Fenton solution, was evaluated to assess the chemical stability of the membranes. The maximum power densities for PT30‐3 and PT40‐3 membranes reached 15.29 and 12.53 mW/cm2 at 30°C, respectively. These figures exhibited a notable increase, reaching 32.73 mW/cm2 for PT30‐3 and 31.72 mW/cm2 for PT40‐3 when the temperature was elevated to 60°C. This study confirmed that the crosslinking strategy using TA assisted by thermal treatment is very simple and competitive compared with other techniques reported in the literature. PT membranes are promising candidates for commercialization and utilization in DMAFC owing to their environment‐friendly nature, cost‐effectiveness, and high efficiency.Highlights
TA cross‐linking improved the thermal and dimensional stability of PVA.
The PT membrane properties varied with TA content and thermal treatment time.
Some electrolytes in this study outperformed those previously reported for DMAFC.
PT membranes offer efficiency, cost‐effectiveness, and eco‐friendliness for DMAFCs.
Outdoor measurements of a full‐size bifacial Pero/Si tandem module under different spectral conditions
Authors: Chojniak David , Steiner Marc , Reichmuth Sebastian Kasimir , Rößler Torsten , Schmid Alexandra , Siefer Gerald , Glunz Stefan W. 
Published: November 2023

AbstractIn recent years, significant progress has been made in terms of efficiency and stability of perovskite on silicon (Pero/Si) tandem solar cells. Nevertheless, most of these activities are focused on small‐area laboratory cells while the availability of large‐area solar cells suitable for module integration on an industrial level remains limited, and therefore, measurements of tandem modules are rare. However, the reliable measurement of tandem modules is a prerequisite to evaluate the real potential of this rapidly developing technology for the photovoltaic market. In this study, we present the first published outdoor measurement of a full‐size bifacial Pero/Si tandem solar cell module. Our focus is on analyzing the spectral influences on the outdoor performance of the device through a qualitative assessment of the modules I–V parameter conducted over the course of a measurement day. Based on continuous monitoring of the ambient and module conditions, we provide consistent explanations for the complex interplay between the incident irradiance on both the front and backside of the module, as well as the module temperature. Based on our findings, we finally discuss how to appropriately account for the influence of bifaciality in the case of bifacial tandem modules, where the procedures used for bifacial single‐junction devices cannot be easily applied due to subcell limitation effects. Throughout the study, we present important insights into the real‐world characteristics of a bifacial Pero/Si tandem model, discuss and explain various influences on the modules performance, and therefore provide crucial information for an optimal cell design for bifacial Pero/Si tandem devices.
Decoding the Pathway‐Dependent Self‐Assembly of Polymer‐Grafted Nanoparticles by Ligand Crystallization
Authors: Gu Pan , Li Hao , Xiong Bijin , Li Jinlan , Chen Zhenxian , Li Wang , Mao Xi , Wang Huayang , Jin Jing , Xu Jiangping , Zhu Jintao 
Published: November 2023

AbstractFunctional metamaterials can be constructed by assembling nanoparticles (NPs) into well‐ordered structures, which show fascinating properties at different length scales. Using polymer‐grafted NPs (PGNPs) as a building block, flexible composite metamaterials can be obtained, of which the structure is significantly affected by the property of polymer ligands. Here, it is demonstrated that the crystallization of polymer ligands determines the assembly behavior of NPs and reveal a pathway‐dependent self‐assembly of PGNPs into different metastructures in solution. By changing the crystallization degree of polymer ligands, the arrangement structure of NPs can be tailored. When the polymer ligands highly crystallize, the PGNPs assemble into diamond‐shaped platelets, in which the NPs arrange disorderedly. When the polymer ligands lowly crystallize, the PGNPs assemble into highly ordered 3D superlattices, in which the NPs pack into a body‐centered‐cubic structure. The structure transformation of PGNP assemblies can be achieved by thermal annealing to regulate the crystallization of polymer ligands. Interestingly, the diamond‐shaped platelets remain “living” for seeded epitaxial growth of newly added crystalline species. This work demonstrates the effects of ligand crystallization on the crystallization of NP, providing new insights into the structure regulation of metamaterials.
A Tailorable Series of Elastomeric‐To‐Rigid, Selfhealable, Shape Memory Bismaleimide
Authors: Li Yuejia , Zhang Fenghua , Liu Yanju , Leng Jinsong 
Published: November 2023

AbstractIn recent years, there has been rapid development in the field of shape memory materials with active deformation performance. However, bismaleimide, a widely used thermosetting material in aerospace, has been largely overlooked in shape memory applications. This work presents the synthesis of a molecule containing an alkene bond adjacent to an oxygen atom. Through molecular design, a one‐time reaction between this specialized molecule and the bismaleimide molecule is successfully achieved, facilitated by the steric hindrance effect. Therefore, a new series of shape memory bismaleimide materials are obtained. By introducing a diamine to adjust the chain length, the properties of material are further improved, resulting in increasing static modulus by 506 times. The synthesized materials exhibit a broad glass transition temperature (Tg) range exceeding 153 °C, remarkable stiffness tunability. Notably, in the synthesis process of this materials series, the disulfide bonds are introduced, which facilitates the realization of self‐healing and reprocessable functionalities in the resulting thermosetting materials. This significant advancement lays a solid foundation for the future recycling and reuse of aircraft, satellites, and other equipment, offering promising prospects for enhancing sustainability and efficiency within the aerospace industry.
Fabrication of Heterostructural FeNi3‐Loaded Perovskite Catalysts by Rapid Plasma for Highly Efficient Photothermal Reverse Water Gas Shift Reaction
Authors: Zhou Jun , Zhu Zihe , Li Qinghao , Zhang Qiankai , Liu Zhengrong , Deng Qinyuan , Zhou Zilin , Li Cunxin , Fu Lei , Zhou Jiacheng , Li Haonan , Wu Kai 
Published: November 2023

AbstractMetal‐semiconductor heterostructured catalysts have attracted great attention because of their unique interfacial characteristics and superior catalytic performance. Exsolution of nanoparticles is one of the effective and simple ways for in‐situ growth of metal nanoparticles embedded in oxide surfaces and their favorable dispersion and stability. However, both high‐temperature and a reducing atmosphere are required simultaneously in conventional exsolution, which is time‐consuming and costly, and particles often agglomerate during the process. In this work, Ca0.9Ti0.8Ni0.1Fe0.1O3‐δ (CTNF) is exposed to dielectric blocking discharge (DBD) plasma at room temperature to fabricate alloying FeNi3 nanoparticles from CTNF perovskite. FeNi3‐CTNF has outstanding catalytic activity for photothermal reverse water gas shift reaction (RWGS). At 350 °C under full‐spectrum irradiation, the carbon monoxide (CO) yield of FeNi3‐CTNF (10.78 mmol g−1 h−1) is 11 times that of pure CaTiO3(CTO), and the CO selectivity is 98.9%. This superior catalytic activity is attributed to the narrow band gap, photogenerated electron migration to alloy particles, and abundant surface oxygen vacancies. The carbene pathway reaction is also investigated through in‐situ Raman spectroscopy. The present work presents a straightforward method for the exsolution of nanoalloys in metal‐semiconductor heterostructures for photothermal CO2 reduction.
High Energy Density Supercapacitors: An Overview of Efficient Electrode Materials, Electrolytes, Design, and Fabrication
Authors: Pathak Mayank , Bhatt Diksha , Bhatt Rajesh Chandra , Bohra Bhashkar Singh , Tatrari Gaurav , Rana Sravendra , Arya Mahesh Chandra , Sahoo Nanda Gopal 
Published: November 2023

AbstractSupercapacitors (SCs) are potentially trustworthy energy storage devices, therefore getting huge attention from researchers. However, due to limited capacitance and low energy density, there is still scope for improvement. The race to develop novel methods for enhancing their electrochemical characteristics is still going strong, where the goal of improving their energy density to match that of batteries by increasing their specific capacitance and raising their working voltage while maintaining high power capability and cutting the cost of production. In this light, this paper offers a succinct summary of current developments and fresh insights into the construction of SCs with high energy density which might help new researchers in the field of supercapacitor research. From electrolytes, electrodes, and device modification perspectives, novel applicable methodologies were emphasized and explored. When compared to conventional SCs, the special combination of electrode material/composites and electrolytes along with their fabrication design considerably enhances the electrochemical performance and energy density of the SCs. Emphasis is placed on the dynamic and mechanical variables connected to SCs′ energy storage process. To point the way toward a positive future for the design of high‐energy SCs, the potential and difficulties are finally highlighted. Further, we explore a few important topics for enhancing the energy densities of supercapacitors, as well as some links between major impacting factors. The review also covers the obstacles and prospects in this fascinating subject. This gives a fundamental understanding of supercapacitors as well as a crucial design principle for the next generation of improved supercapacitors being developed for commercial and consumer use.