bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025_split huggingface dataset:
Synthesis, evaluation, and monitoring of red amaranth extract for power production
Authors: Tanisa N Y , Khan K A , Salahuddin M 
Published: January 2024

Abstract
The scientific paper describes the synthesis of silver nanoparticles (Ag NPs) using a fresh red amaranth preparation and explores their potential to enhance the output current of a red amaranth bio-electrolytic cell. The study employed various analytical techniques such as x-ray diffraction (XRD), Fourier transform infrared (FTIR), ultraviolet-visible spectroscopy (UV–vis), dynamic light scattering (DLS), and Raman spectroscopy to characterise and detect the nanoparticles. The UV–vis analysis of the dripping media containing silver nanoparticles exhibited an absorption peak, indicating the presence of the nanoparticles. FTIR was utilised to examine the interaction between the biomaterial components and the oxidation and wrapping of silver nanoparticles. XRD analysis revealed that the synthesised nanoparticles possessed a naturally columnar shape and a face-centered cubic (FCC) structure. The average size and morphology of the nanoparticles were characterised by dynamic light scattering (DLS). Raman spectra revealed the unique surface-enhancing properties of synthesised Ag NPs. The research presented in the paper highlights the remarkable performance of silver nanoparticles in bio-electrolyte power generation systems. It emphasises a straightforward, cost-effective, and environmentally friendly method for producing Ag NPs using red amaranth extract. These findings contribute to the development of a novel framework for bio-electrochemical cells and emphasise the importance of further research on the effects of Ag NPs on these cells. It is found that the open circuit voltage is 3.254 V, short circuit current is 2.256 mA, and load current is 1.987 mA before using the Ag NPs and open circuit voltage is 5.678 volts, short circuit current is 4.212 mA, and load current is 2.887 mA after using the Ag NPs. It is seen that the values of the three parameters have been increased after using the Ag NPs, which ensured the significance of the use of Ag NPs.
Tamping the movement of the laser absorption cutoff position using gold foam hohlraum
Authors: ZHANG 张 Lu 璐 , LI 李 Liling 丽灵 , LIN 林 Zhiwei 稚伟 , DONG 董 Yunsong 云松 , JING 景 Longfei 龙飞 , ZHENG 郑 Jianhua 建华 , KUANG 况 Longyu 龙钰 , LI 黎 Hang 航 , ZHENG 郑 Jinhua 金华 , ZHANG 张 Jiyan 继彦 , SONG 宋 Tianming 天明 , ZHANG 张 Zhiyu 志宇 , ZHAO 赵 Yang 阳 , NIU 牛 Gao 高 , YANG 杨 Dong 冬 , YANG 杨 Jiamin 家敏 , DING 丁 Yongkun 永坤 
Published: January 2024

Abstract
In indirect-driven laser fusion experiments, the movement of the laser absorption layer will distort the radiation uniformity on the capsule. The gold foam has advantages in symmetry control and lowering wall plasma blowoff when used in an inertial confinement fusion (ICF) hohlraum. This work investigates the motion of the laser absorption cutoff position using low-density foam gold walls. It is found that the motion of the laser absorption cutoff position can be significantly mitigated through optimal initial low density, tailored to a specific laser shape. For a short square laser pulse, the laser absorption cutoff position remains almost stationary at an initial density of approximately 0.6 g cm−3. For a long-shaped laser pulse, the minimal motion of the laser absorption cutoff position is observed at an initial density of about 0.1 g cm−3. This approach allows for the adjustment of the symmetry of the hohlraum radiation source. The insights gained from this study serve as a crucial reference for optimizing the hohlraum wall density.
Compilation of algorithm-specific graph states for quantum circuits
Authors: Krishnan Vijayan Madhav , Paler Alexandru , Gavriel Jason , Myers Casey R , Rohde Peter P , Devitt Simon J 
Published: January 2024

Abstract
We present a quantum circuit compiler that prepares an algorithm-specific graph state from quantum circuits described in high level languages, such as Cirq and Q#. The computation can then be implemented using a series of non-Pauli measurements on this graph state. By compiling the graph state directly instead of starting with a standard lattice cluster state and preparing it over the course of the computation, we are able to better understand the resource costs involved and eliminate wasteful Pauli measurements on the actual quantum device. Access to this algorithm-specific graph state also allows for optimisation over locally equivalent graph states to implement the same quantum circuit. The compiler presented here finds ready application in measurement based quantum computing, NISQ devices and logical level compilation for fault tolerant implementations.
Low-complexity adaptive reconciliation protocol for continuous-variable quantum key distribution
Authors: Jiang Xue-Qin , Xue Shengyuan , Tang Jiahao , Huang Peng , Zeng Guihua 
Published: January 2024

Abstract
In continuous-variable quantum key distribution systems, reconciliation is a crucial step that significantly affects the secret key rate (SKR). The rateless protocol based on Raptor codes can achieve high reconciliation efficiency at low signal-to-noise ratios (SNRs). However, the high complexity of low-density parity-check (LDPC) codes used for the precoding in Raptor codes limits the speed of reconciliation. In this paper, we propose an adaptive reconciliation protocol by modifying Raptor codes. The length of random binary sequences is increased because we remove the LDPC precoding that adds redundancy. The modified Raptor codes reduce the complexity of encoding with better performance. The proposed protocol gives a reconciliation efficiency higher than 98.1% in the SNR below −20 dB and maintains a certain SKR in long-distance transmission.
Piezoelectric polymer based acoustic energy harvester for implantable medical devices
Authors: Jawad Husnain , Zhang Wei , Abbasi Saadullah Farooq , Qing Yajie , Sheng Chenxu , Hu Laigui 
Published: January 2024

Abstract
Wireless implantable devices (WIDs) have the potential to revolutionize biomedical sensing, but their power supplies face significant challenges. Traditional energy transfer methods such as inductive and RF have limitations due to associated tissue losses. This work demonstrates a promising approach to this problem, using a flexible implantable ultrasound energy harvester (IUEH) made of biocompatible Poly (vinylidene fluoride-co-trifluoro ethylene) (P(VDF-TrFe)) free-standing film. Unlike commonly used piezoceramic devices, IUEH can be fabricated using economical solution processing methods such as spin coating. In addition, the PVDF-TrFE Ultrasound energy harvesters are rarely reported in the literature. The device performance of the polymer IUEH was investigated in air, water, and animal meat tissue, and the results show that it can generate a power output of 1.1 mW cm−2 in meat, and 1.4 mW cm−2 in water at 80 kHz. The device fabricated using a free-standing piezoelectric thin film, offers an optimum output that is comparable to other P(VDF-TrFe) based high-frequency devices. Additionally, its flexible design, lower costs, and biocompatibility make it a promising alternative to lead-based devices; thus, offering safety, affordability, and quick customization, while promoting minimally invasive procedures and driving innovation in medical device development.
Intensifying human-driven heatwaves characteristics and heat related mortality over Africa
Authors: Adigun Paul , Abah Emmanuel Owoicho , Ajileye Oluwaseun David 
Published: January 2024

Abstract
Heatwaves in Africa are expected to increase in frequency, number, magnitude, and duration. This is significant because the health burden is only expected to worsen as heatwaves intensify. Inadequate knowledge of the climate’s impact on health in developing nations such as Africa makes safeguarding the health of vulnerable groups at risk challenging. In this study, we quantify possible roles of human activity in heatwave intensification during the historical period, and project the future risk of heat-related mortality in Africa under two Representative Concentration Pathways (RCP26) and (RCP60). Heatwaves are measured using the Excess Heat Factor (EHF); the daily minimum (Tn
) and maximum (Tx
) are used to compute the EHF index; by averaging Tx
and Tn
. Two heat factors, significance and acclimatization are combined in the EHF to quantify the total excess heat. Our results confirm the intensification of heatwaves across Africa in recent years is due anthropogenic activity (increase in greenhouse gas concentration and changes in land use). The Return event highlights the potential future escalation of heatwave conditions brought on by climate change and socioeconomic variables. RCP26 projects a substantial rise in heat-related mortality, with an increase from about 9000 mortality per year in the historical period to approximately 23 000 mortality per year at the end of the 21st century. Similarly, RCP60 showed an even more significant increase, with heat-related mortality increasing to about 43 000 annually. This study highlights the potentially growing risk of intensifying heatwaves in Africa under different emission scenarios. It projects a significant increase in heatwave magnitude, number, duration, frequency, and heat-related mortality. Africa’s low adaptive capacity will amplify the impact, emphasizing the need for emissions reduction and effective adaptation measures.
Effects of air pollution on emergency room visits for mental disorders: risks and effect modification by comorbid physical disorders and personal characteristics
Authors: Yoo Eun-hye , Roberts John E , Chen Kai 
Published: January 2024

Abstract
Emerging evidence suggests that exposure to ambient air pollution negatively impacts mental health. However, little is known about potential moderators of such effects, including pre-existing physical disorders and personal characteristics. This study investigated if the effects of daily changes in levels of air pollutants among individuals with mental disorders (MDs) vary depending on comorbid physical disorders, age, sex, or race/ethnicity. We used a time-stratified case-crossover design that compared the levels of PM2.5 and NO2 on days leading up to MD-related emergency room (ER) visits to levels on control days. The sample consisted of individuals with MDs for their primary diagnosis, including both patients with a second diagnosis and those without. We conducted a stratified analysis to examine potential effect modifications by individuals’ demographic characteristics (sex, age, and race/ethnicity) or a diagnosis of a physical disorder (cardiovascular disease, diabetes mellitus, and respiratory disease). We found that both PM2.5 and NO2 were significantly associated with ER visits for MDs. Per 10 µg m−3 increase in daily PM2.5 and per 10 ppb increase in NO2 concentration were associated with 1.07% (95% CI: 0.81%, 1.34%) and 0.56% (95% CI: 0.42%, 0.69%) increase in ER visits for MDs, respectively. We also found significantly greater susceptibility among younger persons (below 18 years old), Black, and individuals with respiratory disease. Exposures to both PM2.5 and NO2 were significantly associated with ER visits for MDs, and these adverse effects were more pronounced among youth, Black and individuals with respiratory disease as a comorbid physical disorder.
More Talk, Less Conflict: Evidence from Requiring Informal Discovery Conferences
Authors: Helland Eric , Yun Minjae 
Published: January 2024

Abstract
Discovery is the formal process of exchanging information under the supervision of the courts. Since managing discovery is costly, courts have implemented case management techniques to reduce motion practice in discovery. This study examines whether case management techniques can reduce the likelihood of a discovery dispute. We attempt to untangle the impact of specific judges from the use of a particular case management technique. We focus on the use of informal discovery conferences (IDCs) in which parties meet with the judge before filing a motion to compel. The problem with simply testing whether IDCs reduce the number of discovery motions is that the use of an IDC is likely endogenous. Our solution to this endogeneity is to use the random assignment of judges. Since some judges have a higher propensity to use IDCs and some courts have begun requiring them, we have two sources of policy variation. Using this estimation strategy, we find that IDCs reduce the number and presence of discovery motions. (JEL K13, K40, K41)
Sexually dimorphic murine brain uptake of the 18 kDa translocator protein PET radiotracer [18F]LW223
Authors: Knyzeliene Agne , Wimberley Catriona , MacAskill Mark G , Alcaide-Corral Carlos J , Morgan Timaeus E F , Henry Martyn C , Lucatelli Christophe , Pimlott Sally L , Sutherland Andrew , Tavares Adriana A S 
Published: January 2024

Abstract
The 18 kDa translocator protein is a well-known biomarker of neuroinflammation, but also plays a role in homeostasis. PET with 18 kDa translocator protein radiotracers [11C]PBR28 in humans and [18F]GE180 in mice has demonstrated sex-dependent uptake patterns in the healthy brain, suggesting sex-dependent 18 kDa translocator protein expression, although humans and mice had differing results. This study aimed to assess whether the 18 kDa translocator protein PET radiotracer [18F]LW223 exhibited sexually dimorphic uptake in healthy murine brain and peripheral organs. Male and female C57Bl6/J mice (13.6 ± 5.4 weeks, 26.8 ± 5.4 g, mean ± SD) underwent 2 h PET scanning post-administration of [18F]LW223 (6.7 ± 3.6 MBq). Volume of interest and parametric analyses were performed using standard uptake values (90–120 min). Statistical differences were assessed by unpaired t-test or two-way ANOVA with Šidak’s test (alpha = 0.05). The uptake of [18F]LW223 was significantly higher across multiple regions of the male mouse brain, with the most pronounced difference detected in hypothalamus (P &lt; 0.0001). Males also exhibited significantly higher [18F]LW223 uptake in the heart when compared to females (P = 0.0107). Data support previous findings on sexually dimorphic 18 kDa translocator protein radiotracer uptake patterns in mice and highlight the need to conduct sex-controlled comparisons in 18 kDa translocator protein PET imaging studies.
Post-transcatheter aortic valve implantation isolated PR prolongation: incidence and clinical significance
Authors: Perel Nimrod , Tovia-Brodie Oholi , Schnur Asher , Acha Moshe Rav , Levi Nir , Cohen Yogev , Dvir Danny , Glikson Michael , Michowitz Yoav 
Published: January 2024

Abstract

Aims
Conduction abnormalities post-transcatheter aortic valve implantation (TAVI) are common. Post-TAVI PR prolongation was mainly studied as an adjunct to new-onset bundle branch block. The net effect of isolated PR prolongation (IPRP) without post-TAVI QRS changes is not well known. The aim of this study was to define the incidence and clinical significance of post-TAVI IPRP.

Methods and results
A total of 1108 consecutive TAVI patients were reviewed. Patients with IPRP were compared with patients without post-TAVI electrocardiogram (ECG) changes. Clinical outcomes included permanent pacemaker implantation (PPI) and overall mortality. A total of 146 patients with IPRP were compared with 290 patients without post-TAVI ECG changes. At 1 year follow-up, 4 (2.7%) and 7 (2.4%) patients underwent PPI (P = 0.838) and 10 (6.8%) and 25 (8.6%) died (P = 0.521), from the study and control groups, respectively. No patient with IPRP and narrow QRS underwent PPI during 1 year post-TAVI, and all death events were non-cardiac except one unknown cause. Permanent pacemaker implantation rates among patients with IPRP and wide QRS were higher (n = 4, 12.1%), compared with patients with wide QRS without post-TAVI ECG change (n = 3, 4%) however not reaching statistical significance (P = 0.126). Multivariate Cox proportional hazards model demonstrated that in patients with narrow QRS, neither PR prolongation nor baseline or maximal PR intervals was associated with the combined endpoint of PPI and mortality. However, in patients with wide QRS, baseline PR intervals and QRS width, but not PR prolongation were associated with the combined outcome.

Conclusion
Post-TAVI IPRP in patients with narrow QRS is not associated with adverse outcome. This finding may translate clinically into a more permissive approach to these patients.
Optical mapping and optogenetics in cardiac electrophysiology research and therapy: a state-of-the-art review
Authors: Baines Olivia , Sha Rina , Kalla Manish , Holmes Andrew P , Efimov Igor R , Pavlovic Davor , O’Shea Christopher 
Published: January 2024

AbstractState-of-the-art innovations in optical cardiac electrophysiology are significantly enhancing cardiac research. A potential leap into patient care is now on the horizon. Optical mapping, using fluorescent probes and high-speed cameras, offers detailed insights into cardiac activity and arrhythmias by analysing electrical signals, calcium dynamics, and metabolism. Optogenetics utilizes light-sensitive ion channels and pumps to realize contactless, cell-selective cardiac actuation for modelling arrhythmia, restoring sinus rhythm, and probing complex cell–cell interactions. The merging of optogenetics and optical mapping techniques for ‘all-optical’ electrophysiology marks a significant step forward. This combination allows for the contactless actuation and sensing of cardiac electrophysiology, offering unprecedented spatial–temporal resolution and control. Recent studies have performed all-optical imaging ex vivo and achieved reliable optogenetic pacing in vivo, narrowing the gap for clinical use. Progress in optical electrophysiology continues at pace. Advances in motion tracking methods are removing the necessity of motion uncoupling, a key limitation of optical mapping. Innovations in optoelectronics, including miniaturized, biocompatible illumination and circuitry, are enabling the creation of implantable cardiac pacemakers and defibrillators with optoelectrical closed-loop systems. Computational modelling and machine learning are emerging as pivotal tools in enhancing optical techniques, offering new avenues for analysing complex data and optimizing therapeutic strategies. However, key challenges remain including opsin delivery, real-time data processing, longevity, and chronic effects of optoelectronic devices. This review provides a comprehensive overview of recent advances in optical mapping and optogenetics and outlines the promising future of optics in reshaping cardiac electrophysiology and therapeutic strategies.
Towards a geodetic earthquake catalogue for Central America: detecting coseismic deformation in Costa Rica using Sentinel-1 InSAR
Authors: Araya Maria C , Biggs Juliet 
Published: January 2024

SUMMARY
Earthquake source parameters can be estimated using seismological observations, but the identification of the fault responsible is often complicated by location uncertainties and the inherent ambiguity between nodal planes. Satellite Interferometric Synthetic Aperture Radar (InSAR) can be used to observe ground deformation and model fault geometry but is limited by climate conditions (water vapour) and ground coverage (dense vegetation). In the tropics, the atmosphere is dynamic and most regions are densely vegetated, making detecting coseismic deformation challenging. Here, we perform a systematic inspection of coseismic interferograms from Sentinel-1 SAR images, to assess their suitability for detecting coseismic deformation in Costa Rica. Using data from the seismological network, we target seven earthquakes between 2016 and 2020 with depths $\le \, 20$ km and magnitudes Mw 5.3–6.2. For each event, we use the seismic parameters to compute line-of-sight displacements for ascending and descending geometries and for both nodal planes and generate 12- and 24-d coseismic interferograms where available. We obtain interferograms with coseismic displacement signals for three of the seven earthquakes. We invert the geodetic data to retrieve the earthquake source parameters but the lack of offshore geodetic coverage causes trade-offs between parameters and large uncertainties. The Jacó and Golfito earthquakes likely occurred on the subduction interface and the geodetic locations were 6–9 km closer to the coast than previous seismic estimates. The Burica earthquake occurred on a shallow steeply dipping thrust fault in the outer forearc. For the other earthquakes, no coseismic deformation was detected due to atmospheric noise or poor coherence. These results demonstrate the suitability of 12-d Sentinel-1 interferograms for monitoring shallow earthquakes of magnitude &gt; Mw 5.7 in Central America. This approach can be used to begin a surface deformation catalogue for the region, which will ultimately help improve the understanding of active deformation processes and improve hazard maps.
The impact of glycosylation on the structure, function, and interactions of CD14
Authors: Quintana Jon Imanol , Delgado Sandra , Rábano Miriam , Azkargorta Mikel , Florencio-Zabaleta Mirane , Unione Luca , Vivanco Maria dM , Elortza Félix , Jiménez-Barbero Jesús , Ardá Ana 
Published: January 2024

Abstract
CD14 is an innate immune receptor that senses pathogen-associated molecular patterns, such as lipopolysaccharide, to activate the innate immune response. Although CD14 is known to be glycosylated, detailed understanding about the structural and functional significance of this modification is still missing. Herein, an NMR and MS-based study, assisted by MD simulations, has provided a 3D-structural model of glycosylated CD14. Our results reveal the existence of a key N-glycosylation site at Asn282 that exclusively contains unprocessed oligomannnose N-glycans that perfectly fit the concave cavity of the bent-solenoid shaped protein. This site is not accessible to glycosidases and is fundamental for protein folding and secretion. A second N-site at Asn151 displays mostly complex N-glycans, with the typical terminal epitopes of the host cell-line expression system (i.e. βGal, α2,3 and α2,6 sialylated βGal, here), but also particularities, such as the lack of core fucosylation. The glycan at this site points outside the protein surface, resulting in N-glycoforms fully exposed and available for interactions with lectins. In fact, NMR experiments show that galectin-4, proposed as a binder of CD14 on monocytes to induce their differentiation into macrophages-like cells, interacts in vitro with CD14 through the recognition of the terminal glycoepitopes on Asn151. This work provides key information about CD14 glycosylation, which helps to better understand its functional roles and significance. Although protein glycosylation is known to be dynamic and influenced by many factors, some of the features found herein (presence of unprocessed N-glycans and lack of core Fuc) are likely to be protein specific.