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A bound state in the continuum (BIC) metasurface (MS) was designed to achieve an ultrahigh quality factor(Q factor) using natural hyperbolic materials, such as hexagonal boron nitride. To investigate the structure's dispersion and Q factor, a unit cell of the MS comprising semicircles and rectangles was designed. This MS structure supports symmetry-protected BICs and exhibits a Q factor of approximately 13 000 at 4.43964 × 1013 Hz. By breaking the MS symmetry, the BICs are converted into quasi-BICs, resulting in quasi-BIC resonance with a high Q factor. Further analysis of the reflection spectra and multipole theory indicates that the toroidal dipole (TD) has the most significant influence on the resonance. Thus, the symmetry-protected BIC can be transformed into the TD resonance with a Q factor by breaking symmetry. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

It is known that rare-earth-based pyrochlore oxide may accommodate the well-defined two-in-two-out spin ice state with its tetrahedral unit. Low-energy excitation is argued to favor the highly concerned monopole state which attracts essential attention. However, such an excitation cannot be directly tracked and imaged using advanced characterizations, raising challenges to our understanding of the physics of monopoles. In this work, we propose an improved two-dimensional artificial spin ice structure on the Shastry–Sutherland lattice to restore the degeneracy of realistic pyrochlore systems. Such a structure avoids the deficiency of inequivalent nearest and next-nearest exchanges in the planar quadrate unit, which, however, is equivalent to the tetrahedral unit of realistic pyrochlore oxides. Therefore, this spin ice model restores state degeneracy that is lost in conventional planar artificial spin ice structures, representing an improved simulator of real spin ice systems. Our careful investigations of such improved structures reveal the rich physics of spin ice excitations, including the phase diagram, which allows different ordered phases and interesting critical phase transitions between spin ice phase I and phase II. Energy spectrum analysis suggests that restoration of state degeneracy substantially reduces monopole excitation energy, resulting in a striking monopole emergency at the critical point. Furthermore, the emergent spin dimer phase in this improved model allows high-density monopole excitations and exhibits high-correlated monopole fluid states. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: To investigate how well an implant stability quotient (ISQ) represents resonance frequency. Materials and Methods: Benchtop experiments on standardized samples that replicated a mandibular premolar site were conducted to correlate an ISQ value and a resonance frequency to synthetic bone density and an incremental insertion torque; then, a frequency spectrum analysis was performed to check the validity of the resonance frequency analysis (RFA). Brånemark Mk III implants (4 × 11.5 mm; Nobel Biocare) were placed in Sawbones test models of five different densities (40, 30, 40/20, 20, and 15 PCF). An incremental insertion torque was recorded during implant placement. To perform stability measurements, the test models were partially clamped in a vise (unclamped volume: 10 × 20 × 34 mm). A MulTipeg (Integration Diagnostics) was attached to the implants, and a Penguin (Integration Diagnostics) RFA measured ISQ. Simultaneously, the MulTipeg motion was monitored via a laser Doppler vibrometer and processed by a spectrum analyzer to obtain the resonance frequency. Tightness of the clamp was adjusted to vary the resonance frequency. A statistical analysis produced a linear correlation coefficient (R) among the measured ISQ, resonance frequency, and incremental insertion torque. Results: The resonance frequency had high correlation to the incremental insertion torque (R = 0.978), confirming the validity of using RFA for this study. Measured ISQ data were scattered and had low correlation to the resonance frequency (R = 0.214) and the incremental insertion torque (R = 0.386). The spectrum analysis revealed the simultaneous presence of multiple resonance frequencies. Conclusions: For the designed benchtop tests, resonance frequency does indicate implant stability in view of Sawbones density and incremental insertion torque. However, ISQ measurements do not correlate to the resonance frequency and may not reflect the stability when multiple resonance frequencies are present simultaneously. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this study, the influence of ceramic shield characteristics, including thickness and geometry, on the transmission spectrum and electron density measurements of a ceramic shield cutoff probe (CSC) was investigated to measure high-density or process plasma. Through electromagnetic simulations and circuit modeling, we examined the measurement characteristics of the CSC based on different ceramic shield geometries. When the ceramic shield is sufficiently thin, it does not affect the CSC wave transmission characteristics. However, for a thick ceramic shield, a cutoff frequency shift of up to 3% toward the lower side can occur. This shift is attributed to the electrical properties of the ceramic material, which can function as a parasitic capacitor. In addition, when fabricating a CSC, depending on the shape of the ceramic shield or the method used to couple it with the CSC body, a cutoff frequency shift can occur toward the lower side. The simulation results were validated through experiments, revealing a cutoff frequency shift toward the lower side of up to 18.0% in the simulations and up to 11.6% in the experiments. The findings of this study could assist in high-density or processing plasma measurements using cutoff probes. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The ultrafast photochemical reaction mechanism, transient spectra, and transition kinetics of the human blue cone visual pigment have been recorded at room temperature. Ultrafast time-resolved absorption spectroscopy revealed the progressive formation and decay of several metastable photo-intermediates, corresponding to the Batho to Meta-II photo-intermediates previously observed with bovine rhodopsin and human green cone opsin, on the picosecond to millisecond timescales following pulsed excitation. The experimental data reveal several interesting similarities and differences between the photobleaching sequences of bovine rhodopsin, human green cone opsin, and human blue cone opsin. While Meta-II formation kinetics are comparable between bovine rhodopsin and blue cone opsin, the transition kinetics of earlier photo-intermediates and qualitative characteristics of the Meta-I to Meta-II transition are more similar for blue cone opsin and green cone opsin. Additionally, the blue cone photo-intermediate spectra exhibit a high degree of overlap with uniquely small spectral shifts. The observed variation in Meta-II formation kinetics between rod and cone visual pigments is explained based on key structural differences.

The gas-phase rotational spectrum from 8 to 750 GHz and the high-resolution infrared (IR) spectrum of pyridazine (o-C4H4N2) have been analyzed for the ground and four lowest-energy vibrationally excited states. A combined global fit of the rotational and IR data has been obtained using a sextic, centrifugally distorted-rotor Hamiltonian with Coriolis coupling between appropriate states. Coriolis coupling has been addressed in the two lowest-energy coupled dyads (ν16, ν13 and ν24, ν9). Utilizing the Coriolis coupling between the vibrational states of each dyad and the analysis of the IR spectrum for ν16 and ν9, we have determined precise band origins for each of these fundamental states: ν16 (B1) = 361.213 292 7 (17) cm−1, ν13 (A2) = 361.284 082 4 (17) cm−1, ν24 (B2) = 618.969 096 (26) cm−1, and ν9 (A1) = 664.723 378 4 (27) cm−1. Notably, the energy separation in the ν16-ν13 Coriolis-coupled dyad is one of the smallest spectroscopically measured energy separations between vibrational states: 2122.222 (72) MHz or 0.070 789 7 (24) cm−1. Despite ν13 being IR inactive and ν24 having an impractically low-intensity IR intensity, the band origins of all four vibrational states were measured, showcasing the power of combining the data provided by millimeter-wave and high-resolution IR spectra. Additionally, the spectra of pyridazine-dx isotopologues generated for a previous semi-experimental equilibrium structure (reSE) determination allowed us to analyze the two lowest-energy vibrational states of pyridazine for all nine pyridazine-dx isotopologues. Coriolis-coupling terms have been measured for analogous vibrational states across seven isotopologues, both enabling their comparison and providing a new benchmark for computational chemistry. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A high-resolution absorption spectrum of the S1–S0 transition of free-base phthalocyanine was observed and analyzed with improved reliability. The spectrum, with a partially resolved rotational structure, was obtained by using the buffer-gas cooling technique and a single-mode tunable laser. Our new analysis reveals that the S 1 ← S 0 0 0 0 band belongs to the a-type transition, where the electronic transition moment aligns parallel to the NH–HN direction, allowing the assignment of the S1 state to 1B3u. These results agree with a prior study using supersonic expansion and are well supported by theoretical calculations. Interestingly, the rotational constant B in the S1 state, which is often smaller than that in the ground state for typical molecules, was found to be slightly larger than that in the S01Ag state. This suggests a change in the character of π bonds with the electronic excitation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This year's Emerging Leader in Molecular Spectroscopy Award recipient is Joseph P. Smith of Merck, whose research is significantly influencing pharmaceutical process development through his work in various spectroscopic techniques, [...]

It is important to understand the dynamics of red blood cells (RBCs) in blood flow. This requires the formulation of coarse-grained RBC models that reproduce the hydrodynamic properties of blood accurately. One of the models that successfully reproduces the rheology and morphology of blood has been proposed by Fedosov et al. [Comput. Methods Appl. Mech. Eng. 199, 1937–1948 (2010)]. The proposed RBC model contains several parameters whose values are determined by either various experiments or physical requirements. In this study, we developed a new method of determining parameter values precisely from the fluctuations of the RBC membrane. Specifically, we studied the relationship between the spectra of the fluctuations and model parameters. Characteristic peaks were observed in the spectra, whose peak frequencies were dependent on the parameter values. In addition, we investigated the spectra of the radius of gyration. We identified the peaks originating from the spring potential and the volume-conserving potential appearing in the spectra. These results lead to the precise experimental determination of the parameters used in the RBC model. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Small extracellular vesicles (sEVs) are cell-released vesicles ranging from 30-150nm in size. They have garnered increasing attention because of their potential for both the diagnosis and treatment of disease. The diversity of sEVs derives from their biological composition and cargo content. Currently, the isolation of sEV subpopulations is primarily based on bio-physical and affinity-based approaches. Since a standardized definition for sEV subpopulations is yet to be fully established, it is important to further investigate the correlation between the biomolecular composition of sEVs and their physical properties. In this study, we employed a platform combining single-vesicle surface-enhanced Raman spectroscopy (SERS) and machine learning to examine individual sEVs isolated by size-exclusion chromatography (SEC). The biomolecular composition of each vesicle examined was reflected by its corresponding SERS spectral features (biomolecular "fingerprints"), with their roots in the composition of their collective Raman-active bonds. Origins of the SERS spectral features were validated through a comparative analysis between SERS and mass spectrometry (MS). SERS fingerprinting of individual vesicles was effective in overcoming the challenges posed by EV population averaging, allowing for the possibility of analyzing the variations in biomolecular composition between the vesicles of similar and/or different sizes. Using this approach, we uncovered that each of the size-based fractions of sEVs contained particles with predominantly similar SERS spectral features. Indeed, more than 84% of the vesicles residing within a particular group were clearly distinguishable from that of the other EV sub-populations, despite some spectral variations within each sub-population. Our results suggest the possibility that size-based EV fractionation methods produce samples where similarly eluted sEVs are correlated with their respective biochemical contents, as reflected by their SERS spectra. Our findings therefore highlight the possibility that the biogenesis and respective biological functionalities of the various sEV fractions may be inherently different.

Lipids play crucial roles in many biological processes. Mapping spatial distributions and examining the metabolic dynamics of different lipid subtypes in cells and tissues are critical to better understanding their roles in aging and diseases. Commonly used imaging methods (such as mass spectrometry-based, fluorescence labeling, conventional optical imaging) can disrupt the native environment of cells/tissues, have limited spatial or spectral resolution, or cannot distinguish different lipid subtypes. Here we present a hyperspectral imaging platform that integrates a Penalized Reference Matching algorithm with Stimulated Raman Scattering (PRM-SRS) microscopy. Using this platform, we visualize and identify high density lipoprotein particles in human kidney, a high cholesterol to phosphatidylethanolamine ratio inside granule cells of mouse hippocampus, and subcellular distributions of sphingosine and cardiolipin in human brain. Our PRM-SRS displays unique advantages of enhanced chemical specificity, subcellular resolution, and fast data processing in distinguishing lipid subtypes in different organs and species.

Polycrystalline magnesium aluminate spinel (PMAS) ceramics is a kind of transparent oxide ceramic with the advantages of high hardness, high mechanical strength, thermal stability and chemical corrosion resistance. The optical transmittance and infrared absorption edge of PMAS ceramic are better than that of sapphire and ALON in the mid-infrared band with the wavelengths greater than 4.5 μm, which makes it as an ideal material for manufacturing the optics used in the fields of transparent armor protection, infrared optical window and infrared missile dome. However, the hardness of PMAS ceramics is close to that of sapphire, and the brittleness is greater than that of sapphire, which brings great challenges to ultra-precision ductile grinding. In this paper, the surface characteristics and damage mechanisms in ultra-precision grinding of PMAS ceramics were systematically researched based on AE signals monitoring. Firstly, the effects of grinding depth, feed speed and grain size on the surface characteristics were studied in detail. Secondly, the influences of grinding depth and feed speed on the damage characteristics of PMAS ceramics were researched based on energy spectrum analysis of AE signals. Thirdly, the evolution mechanisms of material removal modes and damage characteristics were revealed based on time-frequency analysis of AE signals. Then, the damage types on ductile surfaces and initiation mechanisms of damage crack were investigated. Ultimately, the crack-free ductile surfaces and surface roughness (Sa) of 3 nm were achieved through ultra-precision grinding. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Novel spinel-type Li 2 Mg 2 Ga 2 Ti 3 O 12 ceramics were prepared by the solid-state method. Rietveld refinement revealed that the Li 2 Mg 2 Ga 2 Ti 3 O 12 ceramics possess a cubic spinel structure with the F d 3 ‾ m (227) space group. Raman spectrum analysis indicated that the Q × f and FWHM of ceramics exhibit an inverse relationship. According to the P-V-L theory, the Ti-O bond has the highest percentage of contribution to both of bond ionicity and lattice energy, indicating a significant impact on ε r and Q × f , respectively. The Li 2 Mg 2 Ga 2 Ti 3 O 12 ceramics showed the best microwave dielectric properties (ε r = 15.72, Q × f = 69,633 GHz, and τ f = −20 ppm/°C), sintering at an optimum temperature of 1200 °C. Additionally, a dielectric resonance antenna, on the basis of Li 2 Mg 2 Ga 2 Ti 3 O 12 ceramics was designed and simulated. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

ABSTRACT This paper investigates the applicability of time‐gated Raman spectroscopy (TRS) for online mineralogy identification, focusing on a Li‐bearing spodumene ore. The study provides an overview of existing online mineralogy tools and points out some limitations of elemental analysis techniques. Dense media separation concentrate and tailing samples used originated from a deposit in Quebec, Canada. Various techniques, including ICP‐AES, XRD, laser diffraction, and specific gravity determination, were used for detailed sample characterization. Samples and their mixtures at known ratios were prepared as powder and slurries, before being analyzed using TRS, followed by spectrum quantitative analysis. Results show a linear correlation between spodumene percentage by weight and the main Raman peak height or area, in both dry and slurry form, with a higher determination coefficient in slurry form. TRS also provided indications as to the gangue minerals present in the samples. This study shows the potential for TRS as a tool for online mineralogical assessment of spodumene ores, and further work should target the determination of detection limits and quantification of both valuable and gangue minerals. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This paper presents a procedure for the application of a multifractal spectrum to analyse vibration signals obtained during static bending tests of selected fibre reinforced polymer matrix composite materials. The analyses were designed to determine the failure course of the composites tested under bending conditions. Non-stationary changes occurring in the signals include low- and high-energy symptoms of progressive damage in materials, which are difficult to identify and interpret, especially in the early stages. Determined using fractal leaders, the multifractal spectra of the vibration signals calculated for the different stages of the bending test allowed qualitative identification of the changes caused by progressive damage with different energy responses. In addition, the quantitative measures of change in the characteristics of the multifractal spectrum determined clearly indicated the changes occurring in the recorded signals. It can be concluded from the research that the proposed signal processing method based on a multifractal spectrum determined from non-stationary vibration signals is sensitive to changes occurring in these signals. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A novel series of dihydropyrazolo‐[4′,3′:5,6]‐pyrano[3,2‐e][1,2,4]triazolo[4,3‐c]‐pyrimidine analogues were designed, synthesized, and their cytotoxic potential against four tumor cell lines assessed. HRMS, 1H NMR, and 13C NMR spectra analysis were used to describe the novel compounds. Compound 9c had noteworthy anticancer activity in vitro against the Hela, MCF‐7, A549, and A2780 cell lines, with IC50 values of 0.98 ± 0.26, 3.11 ± 0.18, 1.24 ± 0.88, and 2.62 ± 0.56 µM, in that order. The molecular docking and dynamics simulation studies revealed the lead molecule's action mechanism with EGFR target protein. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

ABSTRACT Heterotaxy (HTX) is a group of clinical conditions with a shared pathology of dislocation of one or more organs along the left–right axis. The etiology of HTX is tremendously heterogeneous spanning environmental factors, chromosomal aberrations, mono/oligogenic variants, and complex inheritance. However, in the vast majority of cases, the etiology of HTX remains elusive. Here, we sought to describe the yield of genetic analysis and spectrum of variants in HTX in our highly consanguineous population. Twenty‐four affected individuals, from 19 unrelated families, were consecutively recruited. Genetic analysis, with exome sequencing, genome sequencing, or multigene panel, detected 9 unique variants, 7 of which were novel, in 8 genes known to be implicated in autosomal recessive form of HTX (C1orf127, CCDC39, CIROP, DNAAF3, DNAH5, DNAH9, MMP21, and MNS1) providing a yield of 42.1%. Of note, 7 of the 9 variants were homozygous, while 2 were inherited in compound heterozygosity, including a heterozygous CNV deletion. A search for candidate genes in negative cases did not reveal a plausible variant. Our work demonstrates a relatively high yield of genetic testing in HTX in a consanguineous population with an enrichment of homozygous variants. The significant genetic heterogeneity observed herewith underscores the complex developmental mechanisms implicated in the pathogenesis of HTX and supports adopting a genome‐wide analysis in the diagnostic evaluation of HTX. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

ABSTRACT Water structures take an important role in chemical and biological systems, because the structure and function of a molecule may depend on the structure of water with which the molecule interacts. Near‐infrared (NIR) spectroscopy has been proven to be powerful in analyzing the structure of water due to its sensitive response to OH. However, chemometrics is vitally important in the analysis of NIR spectrum of water due to the low resolution of the spectrum and the complexity of the water structures. In this review, chemometric methods for structural analysis of water in aqueous systems, particularly in chemical and biological processes, by NIR spectroscopy were summarized, from the improvement of spectral resolution to the effective extraction of the spectral information of different water structures. Through the changes of the spectral features of the water structures, the structural transformation of proteins, thermo‐responsive polymers, antifreeze agents, as well as the structural variation of water in the transformation were elucidated. Water was proved to be a good probe for analyzing the structure and interactions in aqueous solutions and chemical/biological processes by NIR spectroscopy. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Green synthesized nanoparticles have recently gained significant medicinal applications and oftentimes outperform their green sources. Selenium is of fundamental importance to human health, stemming from its distinctive physicochemical properties, such as antioxidant activity, inhibition of Lipid peroxidation, stabilization of membrane proteins, maintenance of membrane fluidity and modulation of cell signaling. Though reports have shown some therapeutic potential of Ackee plant parts such as antioxidant, anti-inflammatory, antimicrobial, neuroprotective, very few scientific proofs still exist in support of these effects. Methods: This study synthesized selenium nanoparticles (Se-NPs) from crude methanolic extracts of Ackee leaves (AKL) and Ackee arils (AKA), examined the photo-physical characteristics of the Se-NPs and determined the in-vitro antioxidant, antidiabetic, and anti-inflammatory potentials of AKL, AKA, and their Se-NPs using established protocols. Results: In both leaves and arils Se-NPs: UV spectroscopy revealed a qualitative absorbance at 310 nm; FTIR indicated multiple vibrations around 4000 cm−1- 400 cm−1; SEM images of 5 µm principally showed consistent size distribution of amorphous and granular shape at a magnification of 10,000X; while EDS spectra strongly confirm the presence of atomic Se compound at 30 kV. Various antioxidant activities assays carried out showed a range of approximately 4 to 60 times higher activities of the AKL, AKA, and Se-NPs than Ascorbic acid—the standard drug used. Furthermore, appreciable activities of more than 50% were obtained for alpha-amylase and alpha-glucosidase inhibitory activities, along with highly significant activities of haemoglobin glycosylation, glucose uptake, membrane stabilization, anti-arthritic, anti-haemolysis activities, when AKL, AKA, and Se-NPs were compared with standard drugs. Conclusion: Encouraging the development and utilization of AKL, AKA, and Se-NPs will provide tremendous therapeutic efficacy and bioavailability approaches towards the management of diabetes, inflammation, and other oxidative stress-related diseases. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

NiAl bi‐ and trilayers are prepared by alternating evaporation of aluminum and nickel on float glass substrates under high vacuum, with individual layer thicknesses between 20 and 100 nm. The samples are subjected to an annealing procedure to temperatures of up to 300 °C in vacuum, and the structural changes induced by the heat treatments are followed by in situ grazing incidence X‐ray absorption spectroscopy experiments at the Ni K‐edge. The results show that the elemental metallic deposits are stable up to 180 °C, while a slow formation of the intermetallic NiAl compound occurs at temperatures above 200 °C. No additional reaction intermediates are detected. Linear combination fits employing spectra of face‐centered metallic Ni and body‐centered NiAl as references allow to quantify the contributions of the respective phases as a function of the temperature and the depth in the multilayer. In general, an increase of the phase fraction of the intermetallic NiAl phase is detected. While the deposited elemental metals cannot completely be transformed into this intermetallic compound for the Al–Ni bilayer system even after prolonged annealing at 240 °C, the analysis of the spectra of the Al–Ni–Al trilayer suggests almost complete conversion to NiAl with body‐centered‐cubic structure. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Atmospheric traces of radioactive xenon can be a strong indicator for underground nuclear fission reactions. 131mXe, 133Xe, 133mXe and 135Xe are the primary gaseous isotopes/isomers currently used to identify and classify nuclear events. During decay, each of these radioactive species produces a unique beta-gamma energy spectra, which can be measured using beta-gamma coincidence counting. Current operational Xe beta-gamma spectrum analysis software relies on Region of Interest (ROI) counting (Bowyer et al. in J Environ Radioact 59(2):139–151, 2002). This algorithm occasionally produces mismeasurements, especially when quantifying meta-stable isomers, due to overlapping ROIs and shifts in detector calibration in fielded systems over time (Ringbom and Axelsson in Appl Radiat Isot 156:108950, 2020). In an attempt to better de-convolve overlapping isotope spectra we have developed a technique that applies a supervised neural-network implemented in TensorFlow with Keras to classify and quantify the isotopes and mixtures of isomers based on their beta-gamma spectra—similar to image recognition. From this, we have improved upon the false-positive rate for classification and regression models, however challenges remain with dealing with differing detector energy calibrations and with estimating measurement uncertainty. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Cr3+ doped Li2Ba3(P2O7)2 pyrophosphate nanopowder was successfully synthesised by solid-state reaction technique. The nanopowder was characterised by several techniques. X-ray diffraction analysis reveals orthorhombic crystal structureand average crystallite size values 34.21 and 28.41 nm are determined by Debye Scherrer's formula and Williamson-Hall (W-H) method. The morphology displayed both SEM and HR-TEM images are irregular stone-like shapes. EDS analysis confirms the constituted elements. The SAED patterns of HR-TEM with well matched with XRD data. FT-IR and Raman spectra analysis confirmed incorporation of Cr3+ in the Li2Ba3(P2O7)2 pyrophosphate nanopowder. The EPR spectrum exhibited signal at g = 1.968 which is attributed to interaction between Cr3+ and Cr3+ exchange pair. The site symmetry of Cr3+ ions occupy a distorted octahedral. Photoluminescence spectrum exhibited bands correspond to ultraviolet, blue and green regions. The evaluated CCT of 6517 K indicates yellowish-green emission near cold light which reveals that the present prepared sample is useful for LEDs applications. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The article reviews the possibilities of applying the web application Gabmap developed by researchers at the University of Groningen to the analysis of vowel formant data based on the results of the study of one Lithuanian dialect. The Western Aukštaitian dialect of Kaunas is traditionally considered the basis of Standard Lithuanian. The study was based on the data of 18 male speakers from six dialectal localities representing distinctive areas. The normalized mean values of the first two vowel formants (F1, F2) were analyzed in certain word positions illustrating distinguishing features, which were processed using Gabmap tools designed for analyzing numeric sequences. Gabmap tools most beneficial for the researchers of experimental phonetics along with the aspects of their application to research were emphasized in the study; it also underlined those tools the use of which requires additional application of other conventional methods of experimental sound analysis, such as sound spectrum analysis, planimetric models, etc. In the study of the Western Aukštaitian of Kaunas, the Gabmap analysis confirmed significant horizontal variation within the dialect area and foregrounded the most tightly related sites sharing the greatest number of common features in their vocalism. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Due to its relatively low cost and remote detection characteristics, optical temperature sensing technology based on FIR has received widespread attention. At present, there is a lack of theoretical guidance on how to purposefully improve or guide the development of high-performance temperature sensing materials. Herein, the structure of a novel material K 7 MgSc 2 B 15 O 30 has been confirmed by the XRD analysis. Furthermore, the effect of Zn on the crystal structure and the photoluminescence (PL) properties of K 7 MgSc 2 B 15 O 30 :Mn2+ has been studied. The PL spectra analysis of a series of Mn2+ doped K 7 MgSc 2 B 15 O 30 luminescence materials indicates that two kinds of Mn2+ emitting centers (Mn(1) and Mn(2)) exist due to the two possible substitution sites Mg2+ and Sc3+. With the increasing of Zn2+, the intensity ratio of Mn(2) to Mn(1) improves from 1.01 to 1.88 at room temperature. Especially, the thermal stability of Mn(1) and Mn(2) gradually decrease with the increasing of Zn2+ contents, which can be due to the lengthening of Zn/Mg–O bonds and the lattice distortion of ScO 6 , respectively. Finally, their temperature sensing sensitivity has been enhanced by the doping of Zn2+, which has a close relation to the different effect of the thermal stability of Mn(1) and Mn(2). This work is expected to provide new ideas for the development of high-performance temperature sensing materials based on FIR, and is helpful to understand the relationship between the crystal structure and luminescence properties. • The crystal structure of K 7 MgSc 2 B 15 O 30 has been firstly studied. • Two emitting centers of Mn have been confirmed in K 7 MgSc 2 B 15 O 30 :Mn2+. • The decreased PL thermal stability attributes to the structure modulation. • The relative sensitivity can been tunable by the doping of Zn2+. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Despite those with hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC) being at increased risk of malnutrition, there is a notable absence of practical approaches for nutritional assessment in clinical practice. We investigated the usefulness of phase angle (PhA) and Total Psoas Area Index (TPAI) for indicating nutritional risk and HCC prognosis. Weight, height, body mass index (BMI), adductor pollicis muscle thickness (APMT), and handgrip strength (HGS) were assessed. The Nutritional Risk Index (NRI) was calculated. Body composition was assessed using bioimpedance spectroscopy and magnetic resonance imaging. The Child-Turcotte-Pugh (CTP) score and Barcelona-Clinic Liver Cancer (BCLC) classification determined the prognosis. Fifty-one males with HCC were enrolled (CTP C = 11.8%). PhA showed a moderate positive correlation with APMT (r = 0.450; p < 0.001) and HGS (r = 0.418; p = 0.002) and a weak positive correlation with TPAI (r = 0.332; p = 0.021). PhA had a strong positive correlation with NRI (r = 0.614; p < 0.001). Mean PhA values were significantly different according to disease severity (CTP C p = 0.001, and BCLC D p = 0.053). TPAI had no significant correlation with HGS, CTP, or BCLC. PhA was a superior approach for predicting nutritional risk and prognosis in HCC than TPAI. Lower PhA is associated with disease progression, lower muscle mass and function, greater severity of nutritional risk, and increased mortality in HCC. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Traditional free vibration-based forward models generate theoretical dispersion curves under the assumption of planar waves, neglecting the influence of the actual source-receiver configuration. The 2D/3D discretization-based numerical wavefield modeling approaches can mimic real field scenarios considering active source-receiver information. However, numerical methods are computationally inefficient. This study introduces an active sourced semianalytical wavefield modeling approach for laterally homogeneous horizontally stratified media, incorporating source-receiver data acquisition layouts. The method considers a cylindrically spreading wavefield described by the Hankel function instead of the planar wave assumption. The approach considers both propagating waves characterized by real wavenumbers and decaying waves with complex wavenumbers, allowing for the calculation of surface displacements in both the far and near fields. The proposed model captures the complete wavefield, including source-offset effects and leaky waves, while maintaining computational efficiency comparable to any free vibration-based approaches. The method entails solving the eigenvalue problem constructed through the higher-order thin-layer method. Subsequently, it calculates the frequency domain vertical and radial surface responses at any desired location in space generated by a vertically positioned active source. The proposed method's overall performance is investigated on diverse subsurface profiles, including regularly dispersive media, low-velocity layer models, and a field cross-hole model. The Rayleigh wave's vertical and radial component dispersion images obtained from the proposed method are validated against the numerical approach. The proposed method is at least two orders of magnitude faster than the numerical approach. Notably, it addresses mode misidentification issues arising from modal osculation at low frequencies and effectively captures the smooth transition of modal energy from fundamental modes to higher modes. Note that the present method is limited to laterally homogeneous media. However, this method provides a valuable tool for advancing the accuracy and efficiency of active surface wave methods in various engineering applications. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

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The traditional high-frequency resonance technology has two disadvantages: (1) The resonance frequency (RF) is obtained by using Fourier spectrum (FS) and the bandwidth is obtained based on experience, and the effect is often poor due to severe noise interference; (2) the separation of compound faults is not considered. After systematic research, a feasible fault detection methodology named enhanced adaptive high-frequency resonance technology is summarized and introduced, which is on the basis of power spectrum (PS) analysis, abbreviated as enhanced adaptive high-frequency resonance technique based on power spectrum (PS-EAHFRT), to realize the single fault detection and compound fault separation of bearing. Firstly, the theoretical values of various bearing fault modes are calculated to establish a database. Then, a series of spectral peaks are obtained by performing PS analysis, and each prominent spectral peak is considered as an alternative RF, that is, an alternative central frequency. Then, the bandwidth calculation formula of the bandpass filter is given, and the optimal bandwidth parameter is calculated by using the signal envelope kurtosis as a sparse measure. Finally, the original signal is denoised by the optimized band-pass filter, and then the filtered signal is demodulated by envelope PS analysis, and compared with the theoretical value in the library, and then the fault category is obtained. Simulated and real-world bearing cases are used to demonstrate the effectiveness and advantages of PS-EAHFRT. It is demonstrated that the PS-EAHFRT can effectively realize the bearing single fault detection and the compound fault separation. Moreover, the lower bound of the frequency interval in which this method can achieve bearing composite fault separation is explored. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Previous research on seismic response analysis of dams primarily treated earthquakes as deterministic events; only a few studies on arch dams have explored earthquakes as random processes. This study introduces a three-dimensional seismic analysis of the Morrow Point arch dam, considering fully correlated random ground motion. The random ground excitation is characterized by the power spectral density function (PSDF) of the Kern County earthquake, for which the response time history is available. The spectral analysis technique describes the PSDF of the dam's response using the desired transfer function derived from Abaqus software. The analysis method is similar to that employed in finding the PSDF of the response of offshore structures from a given wave spectrum (PSDF). The method is validated by confirming the results of the proposed method with those of modal spectral analysis for empty dams and those of the time history analysis of the full reservoir dam. The results from the numerical study show that (1) the PSDF of responses obtained by modal spectral analysis using the first ten modes of the dam matches with those obtained by the direct analysis using transfer functions for the empty dam; and (2) mean peak arch stresses increases along the height of the dam from base to top, whereas mean peak cantilever stresses decreases; further, the mean peak arch stresses are less than the mean peak cantilever stresses at the base. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Buildings on hill slopes have suffered significant damage from past earthquakes due to poor design and construction practices. Therefore, Indian building code restricts the natural period of building on slopes based on their shortest height. Different building configurations located on hill slopes perform differently in the event of an earthquake, making it necessary to check the applicability of provisions using elastic and inelastic analyses. This study investigated a spectrum of two-dimensional (2D) RC moment frame building configurations (with or without including infill walls as an equivalent strut), including (1) type of building configuration; (2) angle of slope; (3) boundary conditions; and (4) varying height of buildings using modal analysis, equivalent static analysis, and response spectrum analysis. Mass participation (from 80% to 37%) and base shear decrease due to extreme short columns, which demand massive forces; interstory drift decreases for buildings on hill slopes, but increases drastically by varying the boundary conditions. The responses from nonlinear static and dynamic time-history analyses were studied based on the capacity curve, performance point, and level of damage toto structural elements under the maximum considered earthquake (MCE). The presence of struts increases lateral stiffness and lateral strength for building on slopes, resulting in less damage to structural elements than regular buildings (BC1). However, damage to beams and columns is more common in bare-frame buildings than in buildings with struts, because the struts sustain more damage. Although a few building configurations on slopes incurred less damage (e.g., step-back setback buildings, due to decreased stiffness along the height), more damage is evident in the struts of other buildings on slopes. Thus, strut failure may cause a building to behave like a bare-frame building under MCE demand, sustaining more damage; this also was demonstrated with a three-dimensional (3D) building on slope. Thus, designing buildings based on code-based natural periods by assuming the sloped region to be rigid may not be valid for all building configurations. It is necessary to account for other critical parameters while placing restrictions on the building code provisions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Superabsorbent polymers (SAP) with a three-dimensional cross-linked network structure are used in the concrete field due to their good water absorption and water retention properties. The changes of its repeated water absorption and release properties have an important impact on crack healing, but there is still a lack of relevant research. This study mainly uses the tea-bag method to explore the repeated water absorption and release behavior of sodium polyacrylate and polyacrylic acid-acrylamide copolymers in deionized water, cement filtrate, and saturated calcium hydroxide solution. The quantitative analysis of the change in the peak area of the water-absorbing functional group was performed by fourier transform infrared spectroscopy. The morphology and elements of SAP under different dry-wet cycles were analyzed by scanning electron microscope-energy spectrum analysis. The repeated swelling behavior of SAP was predicted using the classical models. The results showed that the repeated water absorption performance of SAP gradually decreased with the increase of the number of wet-dry cycles. The slope of the curve for the second-order equation gradually increases, and the peak area corresponding to the carboxyl functional group also gradually increases. And the rate and amount of water release gradually increase. For sodium polyacrylate, with the increase in the number of wet-dry- cycles, the increase in the content of calcium, magnesium, and aluminum elements is accompanied by a significant decrease in the content of sodium elements. In contrast, the calcium content on the surface of polyacrylic acid-acrylamide copolymer increased, but the sodium content only slightly decreased. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Heat engines based on reciprocating machines remain in demand as energy converters in a variety of industries around the world. The aim of the study was to evaluate the gas-dynamic, consumable and heat exchange characteristics of non-stationary air flows in a supply system with transverse profiling of valve channels based on experimental studies. Valve channels with cross sections in the form of a circle, square and triangle were used to control the consumable and heat exchange characteristics of the flows in the supply system of the reciprocating-engine model. The article presents data on changes in local velocity, volumetric airflow and instantaneous heat transfer coefficient of non-stationary airflow in supply systems with different valve channel designs. A spectral analysis of the pulsations of the local heat transfer coefficient was also performed. The Nusselt number was calculated for the studied supply systems. The figured valve channels lead to an increase in the volumetric airflow through the supply system up to 32% compared with the basic configuration. The use of a square valve channel leads to suppression of heat transfer (drop is about 15 %) compared to the basic supply system, and the use of a triangular valve channel causes an intensification of heat transfer (growth is about 17.5%). The obtained data can be useful for refining mathematical models, adjusting machine learning algorithms, and improving design methods for supply systems of reciprocating machines to improve their technical, economic, and environmental characteristics. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This research proposes simplified methods for response spectrum and modal dynamic analyses of gravity dams using time-history and spectral seismic accelerations modified to directly account for hydrodynamic effects. The developed methods waive the need for specialized fluid-structure interaction software. They also lead to more accurate assessment of coupled structural flexibility and hydrodynamic effects due to each vibration mode than the static correction method commonly used in traditional simplified methods. The methodology utilizes analytical formulations of hydrodynamic pressure or simplified added masses to obtain the contributions of the selected vibration modes to the total seismic response. A hydrodynamic modification factor characterizing the amplification/de-amplification of acceleration seismic demands due to earthquake-induced hydrodynamic effects is also introduced. The application of the proposed methods is illustrated numerically through examples of two typical gravity dam-reservoir systems subjected to four earthquakes. The obtained results are in excellent agreement with the classical reference solutions. Time-history and spectral seismic acceleration demands modified by hydrodynamic effects as well as selected key response indicators, such as relative displacements and stresses within the studied gravity dams, are discussed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Capillary force self‐assembly (CFSA) technology unfolds great potential in the fabrication of functional micro/nanostructures. To date, most self‐assembly methods focus on monolithic microstructure manipulation yet it remains a challenge to achieve precise localized control over the CFSA process of micro/nanostructures. Herein, a light‐regulated CFSA is proposed to realize the localized precise control of microstructures, leveraging on the synergistic effect of photothermally‐responsive hydrogel and self‐assembly technique. The micropillars with asymmetric cross‐linking densities can readily prepare by applying a rationally designed laser and laser‐exposing dosage, thereby realizing the on‐demand steering of their bending directions. Significantly, owing to the giant capillary force deriving from the evaporating water, above micropillars can successfully assemble into highly‐ordered chiral structures. Simulation coupling with fundamental hydrodynamics enables to shed light on the light steering principle over pillar's actuations. Last, on the basis of vortical dichroism spectra analysis, the chiral characteristics of light‐regulated self‐assembly including the chiral as well as the achiral self‐assembled microstructures are successfully deployed. This strategy provides an avenue for fabricating the localized controllable self‐assembly at the microscale and will bloom the field over metamaterials, microsensors, chiral optics, and so on. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

To surpass the constraints associated with conventional therapeutic methods in clinical therapy, nanoparticles have been rapidly prepared and developed as a separate treatment method for diseases. In this study, we have synthesized bismuth oxide nanoparticles (BiNPs) using aqueous leaf extract of Mentha arvensis (M. arvensis) as a biogenic approach. The formation of BiNPs was confirmed by the characteristic peak observed at 276 nm in the UV–vis spectrum and PXRD analysis exhibited the crystalline nature with monoclinic phase. The TEM images revealed the quasi‐spherical shape of BiNPs with an average particle size of 12 nm. For biomedical studies, BiNPs exhibited significant cytotoxicity against A431 cell line (lung cancer) with IC50 value of 92.45 µg/mL. Further studies revealed significantly higher apoptosis, antibacterial, anti‐inflammatory, antidiabetic, and antioxidant activities of the biosynthesized BiNPs. The collective results from the study suggest that the M. arvensis mediated synthesis of multifunctional BiNPs enhances their biological potential, positioning it as a potential candidate for the multimodal therapeutic applications. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Accumulation of biofilm over composite resin restorations is one of the principal causes of recurrent caries. Therefore, this study aimed to develop antibacterial composite resins by crystalline selenium nanoparticles (SeNPs), assessing the antibacterial, mechanical, and physical properties of the composite resin after SeNPs incorporation. Methods: SeNPs were synthesized via a green method. The nanoparticles were characterized by UV-Vis spectroscopy, fourier transform infrared (FT-IR) spectroscopy and transmission electron microscopy (TEM). The nano-filled composite (Filtek™ Z350XT) was considered as a control group (G0). Two concentrations of SeNPs (0.005 wt% and 0.01 wt%.) were added to the tested resin composite (G1& G2), respectively. The physical/mechanical and antibacterial properties of the composite specimens (n = 10/group) were characterized. A one-way ANOVA was conducted to analyze these data followed by Bonferroni post hoc test for pairwise comparison. Results: Modified composites with SeNPs showed antibacterial activity against E. coli and S. mutans. Mechanical properties including diametral tensile strength, compressive strength, or surface roughness were not affected by nano-incorporation compared to control. Furthermore, the degree of conversion showed no statistical difference. However, SeNPs incorporation into resin composite produces color change that can be visually perceived. Conclusions: The green synthesized SeNPs significantly improved the antimicrobial properties of the dental composite without compromising mechanical performance. However, it shows color change after SeNPs incorporation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

With the increasing level of industrial informatization, massive industrial data require real-time and high-fidelity wireless transmission. Although some industrial wireless network protocols have been designed over the last few decades, most of them have limited coverage and narrow bandwidth. They cannot always ensure the certainty of information transmission, making it especially difficult to meet the requirements of low latency in industrial manufacturing fields. The 5G technology is characterized by a high transmission rate and low latency; therefore, it has good prospects in industrial applications. To apply 5G technology to factory environments with low latency requirements for data transmission, in this study, we analyze the statistical performance of the round-trip time (RTT) in a 5G-R15 communication system. The results indicate that the average value of 5G RTT is about 11 ms, which is less than the 25 ms of WIA-FA. We then consider 5G RTT data as a group of time series, utilizing the augmented Dickey–Fuller (ADF) test method to analyze the stability of the RTT data. We conclude that the RTT data are non-stationary. Therefore, firstly, the original 5G RTT series are subjected to first-order differencing to obtain differential sequences with stronger stationarity. Then, a time series analysis-based variational mode decomposition–long short-term memory (VMD-LSTM) method is proposed to separately predict each differential sequence. Finally, the predicted results are subjected to inverse difference to obtain the predicted value of 5G RTT, and a predictive error of 4.481% indicates that the method performs better than LSTM and other methods. The prediction results could be used to evaluate network performance based on business requirements, reduce the impact of instruction packet loss, and improve the robustness of control algorithms. The proposed early warning accuracy metrics for control issues can also be used to indicate when to retrain the model and to indicate the setting of the control cycle. The field of industrial control, especially in the manufacturing industry, which requires low latency, will benefit from this analysis. It should be noted that the above analysis and prediction methods are also applicable to the R16 and R17 versions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

On 21 January 2024, asteroid 2024BX1, discovered the three hours before, fell to Earth south of Ribbeck in the Havelland region of Germany. In this study, fragments of the Ribbeck meteorite, characterized by white and gray colors lithology, were examined for their chemical and phase compositions. The white lithology fragment exhibited a homogeneous chemical and phase structure typical of orthopyroxene, which crystallizes in the orthorhombic system. The gray lithology fragment showed a greater diversity in chemical and phase compositions. Raman spectra analysis revealed that, in addition to the pyroxenes found in the white lithology fragment, minerals from the olivine group (fayalite and forsterite) were also present, along with plagioclase and sulfur in pure crystalline form. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

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The rotational mechanism, which plays a critical role in energy supply, payload antenna pointing, and attitude stabilization in satellites is essential for the overall functionality and performance stability of the satellite. This paper takes the space turntable of a specific satellite model as an example, utilizing high-frequency and high-dimensional telemetry data. An improved informer model is used to predict and diagnose features related to the turntable's operational health, including temperature, rotational speed, and current. In this paper, we present a forecasting method for turntable temperature data using a hybrid model that combines singular spectrum analysis with an enhanced informer model (SSA-Informer), comparing the results with threshold limits to determine if faults occur in the satellite's rotational mechanism. First, during telemetry data processing, singular spectrum analysis (SSA) is proposed to retain the long-term and oscillatory trends in the original data while filtering out noise from interference. Next, the improved informer model predicts the turntable temperature based on the mapping relationship between the turntable subsystem's motor current and temperature, with multiple experiments conducted to obtain optimal parameters. Finally, temperature thresholds generated from the prediction results are used to forecast faults in the rotational mechanism over different time periods. The proposed method is compared with current popular time-series prediction models. The experimental results show that the model achieves high prediction accuracy, with reductions of at least 10% in both the MAE and MSE than CNN-LSTM, DA-RNN, TCN-SE and informer, demonstrating the outstanding advantages of the SSA and improved informer-based method in predicting temperature faults in satellite rotational mechanisms. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background Purpose Methods Results Conclusions Digital breast tomosynthesis (DBT) has outpaced digital mammography in clinical adoption in the United States; however, substantial technological limitations remain to image quality in DBT, including undersampling from a one‐dimensional (1D) scan geometry, x‐ray source motion during acquisition, and patient motion artifacts from long exam times.A thermionic cathode x‐ray system employing two‐dimensional (2D, planar) multiple x‐ray‐source arrays (MXA) is proposed to improve DBT image quality.A 1D MXA, consisting of a linear array of thermionic cathodes was used to simulate a 2D MXA. The 1D MXA included 11 focal spots separated by a distance of Δd${{\Delta}}d$ = 23 mm. The 11 cathodes were paired with 11 molybdenum 50 mm diameter anode disks, mounted on a rotating shaft within a single vacuum enclosure. Image quality was investigated as a function of MXA configuration by integrating the 1D MXA with a 200 × 250 mm2 flat panel detector at a source‐to‐detector distance of 630 mm, resulting in a 20° tomographic arc. To simulate a 2D MXA, the detector (with phantom) was translated orthogonally to the linear array by a distance (δ$\delta $) ranging from δ$\delta $ = 0 mm (conventional 1D) to δ$\delta $ = 57 mm. All sources operated at 30 kV with 80 mA and 4.5 mAs/pulse, yielding ∼100 mAs per DBT dataset. DBT reconstructions involved 22 projections and used filtered backprojection with a ramp and Hann apodization filter. Volumetric reconstructions for each source were weighted by sampling differences between sources, and averaged. Image quality was assessed in terms of contrast‐to‐noise ratio (CNR), background clutter noise and power spectrum, and slice sensitivity profile (SSP) using a set of physical phantoms, including: (i) contrast‐detail signals coupled to spherical clutter (PMMA in air); (ii) an SSP phantom; (iii) a commercial “breast” phantom (CIRS BR3D, Sun Nuclear, Norfolk, VA); and (iv) bovine muscle.Background clutter noise amplitude reduced monotonically from the 1D MXA (σclutter = 5.9 A.U., δ$\delta $ = 0 mm) and 2D MXA arrays with increasing δ$\delta $, with statistical significance between the 1D MXA and 2D MXA with δ$\delta $ = 57 mm (σclutter = 5.0 A.U., p < 0.001). The contrast‐detail/clutter phantom demonstrated CNR from the 2D MXA (δ  = 57 mm) outperforming the 1D MXA in all combinations of contrast and detail. 2D power spectrum analysis of clutter demonstrated a pronounced Fourier domain null cone for the 1D MXA in the anterior field‐of‐view (away from the 1D MXA position), whereas the 2D MXA geometry (δ = 57 mm) did not exhibit the null cone. The SSP was 15%–50% narrower (FWHM) for the 2D versus the 1D geometry, across all reconstruction setups.The advantages of a 2D source geometry for DBT imaging were demonstrated quantitatively compared to a conventional 1D line of x‐ray sources. The improvement in the 2D geometry was attributed both to improved Fourier domain sampling and reduced SSP. We conclude that 2D MXA sources have the potential to substantially improve DBT imaging in comparison to existing commercial DBT systems. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study investigated the meandering of yawed wind turbine rotor wakes, focusing on the similarities across different yaw angle scenarios. Spectrum analysis of velocity fluctuations reveals that the meandering of the yawed rotor wake is symmetrical about the wake center, despite its skewness. The non-zero lateral force of the yawed rotor enhances meandering in the lateral direction compared to the vertical direction. However, the lateral profiles of meandering strength exhibit similarities across different yaw angle scenarios, indicating a consistent wake meandering mode. The wake meandering frequency increases with the yaw angle. A relationship involving wake meandering frequency, drag coefficient, and yaw angle is formulated for wind turbine rotor wakes under different yaw angles. This relationship is also applicable to thin plate wakes within a certain range of inclination angles/yaw angles. The present study reveals the similarity in wake meandering characteristics across different yaw angle scenarios, which is instrumental in improving our understanding of wake meandering and in developing analytical wake models for wind turbines. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study presents the development and validation of environmentally friendly analytical methods for quantifying Abiraterone Acetate (AA) in both its pure form and commercial pharmaceutical formulations. An optimized High-Performance Liquid Chromatography (HPLC) method was developed using an Agilent Extend C18 column (250 mm × 4.6 mm, 5 μm) at 25 °C. The mobile phase consisted of formic acid and ethanol in isocratic mode, with a flow rate of 1.0 mL min−1, and detection was performed at 253 nm. The spectrophotometric method involved a comprehensive evaluation of AA's spectral properties in various solvents, with ultrapure water providing the most suitable spectra for analysis at 253 nm. Both methods were validated according to ICH guidelines, demonstrating selectivity, linearity, accuracy, precision, detection and quantification limits, and robustness, with correlation coefficients exceeding 0.999 across the 5–30 μg mL−1 concentration range. Comparative statistical analysis using Student's t-test and Fisher's F-test showed no significant differences between the two methods. The environmental impact of both methods was assessed using AGREE and GAPI software, confirming their sustainability. These validated methods offer reliable and eco-friendly approaches for the quantitative analysis of AA in tablet formulations, promoting safer and greener laboratory practices in pharmaceutical analysis. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Regarding the terrestrial water storage anomaly (TWSA) gap between the Gravity Recovery and Climate Experiment (GRACE) and GRACE Follow-on (-FO) gravity satellite missions, a BEAST (Bayesian estimator of abrupt change, seasonal change and trend)+GMDH (group method of data handling) gap-filling scheme driven by hydrological and meteorological data is proposed. Considering these driving data usually cannot fully capture the trend changes of the TWSA time series, we propose first to use the BEAST algorithm to perform piecewise linear detrending for the TWSA series and then fill the gap of the detrended series using the GMDH algorithm. The complete gap-filling TWSAs can be readily obtained after adding back the previously removed piecewise trend. By comparing the simulated gap filled by BEAST + GMDH using Multiple Linear Regression and Singular Spectrum Analysis with reference values, the results show that the BEAST + GMDH scheme is superior to the latter two in terms of the correlation coefficient, Nash-efficiency coefficient, and root-mean-square error. The real GRACE/GFO gap filled by BEAST + GMDH is consistent with those from hydrological models, Swarm TWSAs, and other literature regarding spatial distribution patterns. The correlation coefficients there between are, respectively, above 0.90, 0.80, and 0.90 in most of the global river basins. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Multi-nozzle nebulisers for pressurised intraperitoneal aerosol chemotherapy (PIPAC) are implemented in clinical practice to improve the homogeneity of tissue drug delivery. Nonetheless, the advantages of such devices over one-nozzle nebulisers have not been demonstrated thus far. In this study, we compared the performance of multi- and one-nozzle nebulisers by conducting physical and ex vivo pharmacological experiments. Methods: The one-nozzle nebuliser Capnopen® and the multi-nozzle nebuliser were the subjects of this study. In physical experiments, the aerosol droplet size was measured by laser diffraction spectroscopy. Spatial spray patterns were depicted on blotting paper. Pharmacological experiments were performed on the enhanced inverted bovine urinary bladder model, demonstrating real-time tissue drug delivery, aerosol sedimentation and homogeneity of doxorubicin and cisplatin tissue distribution. Results: The multi-nozzle nebuliser had a sixfold greater aerosolisation flow and a threefold greater angle of aerosolisation than Capnopen®. The aerosol particle size and distribution range were higher than that of Capnopen®. Spray patterns on blotting paper were more extensive with the multi-nozzle nebuliser. Real-time tissue drug delivery with the multi-nozzle nebuliser was over 100 ml within 1 min, and the aerosol sedimentation was 48.9% ± 21.2%, which was not significantly different from that of Capnopen®. The doxorubicin and cisplatin tissue concentrations were greater with Capnopen®. Although there was no significant difference in the homogeneity of doxorubicin distribution between the two devices, the homogeneity of cisplatin distribution was significantly higher with Capnopen®. Conclusion: The multi-nozzle PIPAC nebuliser did not fulfil expectations. Even though the surface spray patterns were broader with the multi-nozzle nebuliser, the tissue drug homogeneity and concentration were greater with Capnopen®. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Detection and separation of the subtle post-seismic deformation signals associated with moderate magnitude earthquakes from interferometric synthetic aperture radar (InSAR) time-series is often challenging. Singular spectrum analysis (SSA) is a statistical non‐parametric technique used to decompose and reconstruct signals from complex time-series data. We show that the SSA analysis effectively distinguished the post-seismic signal associated with the 2019 M w 6 Mirpur earthquake from periodic and noise components. The SSA-derived post-seismic deformation signal is smoother and fits better to an exponential model with a decay time of 34 d. The post-seismic deformation is confined to the southeast of the rupture area and lasted for ∼90 d following the main shock. Inversion of the post-seismic deformation suggests an afterslip mechanism with a maximum slip of ∼0.07 m on the shallow, updip portions of the Main Himalayan Thrust. The 2019 Mirpur earthquake and afterslip together released less than 12 per cent of the accumulated strain energy since the 1555 Kashmir earthquake and implies continued seismic hazard in the future. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Bioimpedance devices are practical for measuring body composition in preschool children, but their application is limited by the lack of validated equations. Objectives: To develop and validate fat-free mass (FFM) bioimpedance prediction equations among New Zealand 3.5-year olds, with dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry (DXA) as the reference method. Methods: Bioelectrical impedance spectroscopy (SFB7, ImpediMed) and DXA (iDXA, GE Lunar) measurements were conducted on 65 children. An equation incorporating weight, sex, ethnicity, and impedance was developed and validated. Performance was compared with published equations and mixture theory prediction. Results: The equation developed in ~70% (n = 45) of the population (FFM [kg] = 1.39 + 0.30 weight [kg] + 0.39 length2/resistance at 50 kHz [cm2/Ω] + 0.30 sex [M = 1/F = 0] + 0.28 ethnicity [1 = Asian/0 = non-Asian]) explained 88% of the variance in FFM and predicted FFM with a root mean squared error of 0.39 kg (3.4% of mean FFM). When internally validated (n = 20), bias was small (40 g, 0.3% of mean FFM), with limits of agreement (LOA) ±7.6% of mean FFM (95% LOA: –0.82, 0.90 kg). Published equations evaluated had similar LOA, but with marked bias (>12.5% of mean FFM) when validated in our cohort, likely due to DXA differences. Of mixture theory methods assessed, the SFB7 inbuilt equation with personalized body geometry values performed best. However, bias and LOA were larger than with the empirical equations (–0.43 kg [95% LOA: –1.65, 0.79], p < 0.001). Conclusions: We developed and validated a bioimpedance equation that can accurately predict FFM. Further external validation of the equation is required. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The phase-shifted full-bridge converter is often used as an on-board DC/DC converter because of its advantages of easy control and low loss. The use of a spread spectrum modulation technique can reduce the conducted common mode electromagnetic interference. However, the spectrum expansion of periodic pulse width modulation is not strong enough and is accompanied by spectral overlapping phenomenon in the high-frequency band. In addition, the chaotic pulse width modulation generates a large number of low-frequency components and the spectrum expansion is not controllable. In this paper, discrete chaotic sequences are used to modulate the modulation frequency of the periodic function for the second time to enhance the harmonic side-band extension capability of the periodic pulse width modulation, and to solve the problem of the accumulation of the low-frequency harmonic components caused by the chaotic pulse width modulation, and the introduction of the wide-band characteristics of the chaotic sequences can alleviate the overlapping phenomenon of the spectrum in the high-frequency band. Through the whale optimization algorithm, the relevant modulation parameters affecting the periodic-chaotic pulse width modulation–modulation frequency fm and frequency extension range Δf are optimized. Finally, a 500W phase-shifted full-bridge converter experimental prototype verifies that period-chaos pulse-width modulation has better common mode EMI attenuation characteristics when compared with period pulse-width modulation and chaotic pulse-width modulation. In addition, it verifies the accuracy of the optimized parameters. The modulation means and optimization methods proposed in this paper can be used to reduce the conducted electromagnetic interference in switching power supplies. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

To investigate the fracture behavior of slope rock masses under reservoir water fluctuation, several groups of constant-amplitude-cyclic loading tests and acoustic emission (AE) tests were conducted on two types of sandstone rocks, i.e., red sandstone and cyan sandstone, under both dry and saturated conditions. The variation in mechanical parameters, failure pattern and AE characteristics with water saturation and cyclic loading were systematically explored. The laboratory results show that water saturation causes: i) a notable reduction in peak stress (53.98% for red sandstone and 20.70% for cyan sandstone); ii) a considerable increase in failure strain (8.03% for red sandstone and 13.27% for cyan sandstone); iii) an elevated level of AE activity during cyclic loading phase; and iv) a significant enhancement in the occurrence of tensile failure. The statistical analysis of experimental AE waveform data demonstrates a discernible clustering of AE waveforms with low dominant frequency (L-type waveform) and those with high dominant frequency (H-type waveform). Dry rocks under cyclic loading exhibit the prevailing dominance of H-type waveforms, while saturated rocks display a shift towards the predominance of L-type waveforms. Moreover, both water saturation and cyclic loading contribute to the occurrence of L-type waveforms, which are closely associated with tensile failure in rocks. Based on this, cyclic loading is believed to substantially accelerate strength degradation and catastrophic fracture of rocks. Fracturing and AE characteristics investigated in this work likely shed light on accessing the stability of reservoir slopes experiencing recurrent external loads. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The primary objective of this research is to develop innovative methods for efficient condition monitoring of electro-motors. The study investigates the current signals of electro-motors in their early stages of failure, specifically identifying high-frequency fluctuations. These fluctuations, due to their low intensity and lack of modulation, elude detection through FFT analysis. As such, this study analyzes the quantitative and qualitative nature of such disturbances, including their frequency content and intensity in healthy and defective states, and identifies and isolates high-frequency disturbances from the current signal using the EMD and CEEMDAN methods. The research involved a comprehensive analysis of the FFT spectrum, envelope, and factors of main current signals and IMFs. The results indicate mode mixing only in the defective state. The EMD results demonstrate that the IMF associated with the original signal in the defective state exhibited a frequency content of less than 50, as evidenced by the FFT and the envelope spectrums. Additionally, the amplitude of the dominant frequencies in the FFT spectrum of the disturbances was significantly higher in the defective state. Additionally, the outcomes disclose that the original signal's RMS to the disturbances' RMS was significantly higher in healthy cases. Furthermore, the crest factor ratio in the healthy state was slightly higher than that of the defective state. The CEEMDAN findings reveal that the IMFs associated with the disturbance in a healthy state exhibit characteristics akin to white noise. Conversely, some IMFs demonstrate dominant frequencies of 50 and 150 Hz in the defective state. Furthermore, the RMS ratio of the original signal to the RMS of the disturbance is higher in the healthy state than in the defective state. Additionally, the shape factor of disturbances in the healthy state surpasses that of the faulty state. However, the ratio of shape factor notably exceeds in the healthy state. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]