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The ability to visualize x-ray and neutron emission from fusion plasmas in 3D is critical to understand the origin of the complex shapes of the plasmas in experiments. Unfortunately, this remains challenging in experiments that study a fusion concept known as Magnetized Liner Inertial Fusion (MagLIF) due to a small number of available diagnostic views. Here, we present a basis function-expansion approach to reconstruct MagLIF stagnation plasmas from a sparse set of x-ray emission images. A set of natural basis functions is "learned" from training volumes containing quasi-helical structures whose projections are qualitatively similar to those observed in experimental images. Tests on several known volumes demonstrate that the learned basis outperforms both a cylindrical harmonic basis and a simple voxel basis with additional regularization, according to several metrics. Two-view reconstructions with the learned basis can estimate emission volumes to within 11% and those with three views recover morphology to a high degree of accuracy. The technique is applied to experimental data, producing the first 3D reconstruction of a MagLIF stagnation column from multiple views, providing additional indications of liner instabilities imprinting onto the emitting plasma. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The α-hydroxyethyl radical (CH3·CHOH, 2A) is a key intermediate in ethanol biochemistry, combustion, atmospheric chemistry, radiation chemistry, and astrochemistry. Experimental data on the vibrational spectrum of this radical are crucially important for reliable detection and understanding of the chemical dynamics of this species. This study represents the first detailed experimental report on the infrared absorption bands of the α-hydroxyethyl radical complemented by ab initio computations. The radical was generated in solid para-H2 and Xe matrices via the reactions of hydrogen atoms with matrix-isolated ethanol molecules and radiolysis of isolated ethanol molecules with x rays. The absorption bands with maxima at 3654.6, 3052.1, 1425.7, 1247.9, 1195.6 (1177.4), and 1048.4 cm−1, observed in para-H2 matrices appearing upon the H· atom reaction, were attributed to the OHstr, α-CHstr, CCstr, COstr + CCObend, COstr, and CCstr + CCObend vibrational modes of the CH3·CHOH radical, respectively. The absorption bands with the positions slightly red-shifted from those observed in para-H2 were detected in both the irradiated and post-irradiation annealed Xe matrices containing C2H5OH. The results of the experiments with the isotopically substituted ethanol molecules (CH3CD2OH and CD3CD2OH) and the quantum-chemical computations at the UCCSD(T)/L2a_3 level support the assignment. The photolysis with ultraviolet light (240–300 nm) results in the decay of the α-hydroxyethyl radical, yielding acetaldehyde and its isomer, vinyl alcohol. A comparison of the experimental and theoretical results suggests that the radical adopts the thermodynamically more stable anti-conformation in both matrices. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this study, we observed natural methane (CH4) hydrate sediments, which are a type of unconventional natural gas resources, using x-ray computed tomography (CT). Because CH4 hydrates are formed by hydrogen bonding of water molecules with CH4, material decomposition becomes challenging when CH4 hydrates coexist with liquid or solid water in natural sediments. Tri-contrast (absorption, refraction, and scattering) imaging was performed via diffraction enhanced x-ray CT optics using monochromatic synchrotron x rays. The quantitative characterization of the contrast changes successfully enabled the decomposition of CH4 hydrates coexisting with frozen seawater (ice) in natural sediments obtained from the Okhotsk Sea. This study reveals complementary structural information about the microtexture and spatial relation among CH4 hydrates, ice, and pores by utilizing the distinct physical properties of x rays when passing through the materials. These results highlight the exceptional capabilities of high-resolution multicontrast x-ray tomography in materials science and geoscience applications. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Oblique shock wave–interface interactions of gases and liquids have been extensively studied in shock tubes using optical methods to measure equation-of-state (EOS) parameters. However, this is difficult with solids due to their opaqueness to visible light. X ray phase contrast imaging (XPCI) has the penetrative strength to probe solids while still being sensitive to mass density and enhancing the visibility of material boundaries. We investigate the accuracy and repeatability of measuring the mean value of the average mass density (areal density divided by thickness) over region S (B S) and flow deflection angle (θ) from XPCI images of a sample. To that end, a Hough transform-based method for measuring θ is developed. To measure B S , the XPCI image intensity probability density function (PDF) is modeled accounting for the spatial distribution of x ray energy, scintillator response, and pulse-to-pulse variation in the x ray intensity. In addition, a Monte Carlo-based algorithm for computing the B S PDF is developed. Both methods are validated on an impact-generated oblique shock wave interacting at a solid polymer-to-polymer interface. This is accomplished through a comparison to hydrodynamic simulations using well-established EOS. Under the modeling framework for the XPCI image intensity, B S is computed with an accuracy of < 0.1 % and precision of 3%–5%, while θ has an uncertainty of 0.2 ° , respectively. This shows that the XPCI-based model that is developed here could be an invaluable tool for high-fidelity testing of hydrodynamic models in shock polar configurations. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Millimeter-thick methylammonium lead tribromide (MAPbBr3) single crystal x-ray detectors have recently raised attention due to their high x-ray attenuation efficiency and good charge transport properties. However, an intriguing feature of the photocurrent response of MAPbBr3 detectors has been largely overlooked in the literature. After biasing, transient sensitivity is measured under x rays at short-circuit (bias = 0 V), thus revealing a large remnant electric field that builds up under bias. Here, we exploit the x-ray sensitivity of MAPbBr3 detectors at zero-bias in order to probe the internal built-in field, as well as to investigate the charge transport properties of the perovskite material. Our model derived from the Hecht equation is able to fully rationalize the response of the detectors both at short-circuit and under moderate applied bias. Moreover, we provide a method for the estimation of the internal electric field, and for the sum of the electrons and holes mobility–lifetime products μ e τ e + μ h τ h. This general method could extend to any perovskite-based x-ray detector exhibiting transient sensitivity at zero-bias. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

We investigate the temporal correlation between very-high-frequency (VHF, at frequencies of the order of 10–100 MHz), ultrahigh-frequency (UHF, at frequencies within 1–6 GHz), and x-ray (with photon energies more than 10 keV) emissions, which accompany the development of a high-voltage discharge initiated in a long gap at voltages up to 1 MV. The x-ray and UHF emissions are found to emerge starting approximately from the prepulse current onset observed before the discharge gap breakdown and both gradually decay coming to this instant. The UHF emission spectrum is represented with frequencies up to 6 GHz, with the highest spectral power being achieved within 1–2 GHz. The radio emission power drops sharply at frequencies below 1 GHz and increases closer to 150 MHz with the highest spectral power of VHF radiation being reached within 60–90 MHz. The VHF emission can appear before the discharge current and UHF emission onsets in the form of 100-ns-long prepulses, and its intensity significantly increases as the UHF emission starts. The analysis of the temporal correlation between x rays, VHF, and UHF radiations, discharge current, and voltage waveforms indicates that the generation mechanisms of the discharge electromagnetic radiations are difficult to be interpreted in terms of the developing or colliding streamer concepts. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Three sets of heteroepitaxial diamond crystals grown under nominally identical process conditions on Ir/YSZ/Si(001) substrates have been studied with respect to structural defects, chemical purity, and x-ray induced photoconductivity (PC). The dislocation density that varied systematically between 10 7 and 10 9 cm − 2 had a minor influence on dark conductivity and photoconductive gain G. In contrast, the substitutional nitrogen (N N ) and substitutional boron (N B ) defects, which are both present at very low concentrations (≤ 1 ppb), turned out to be the crucial factors controlling the electrical behavior. Small differences between both resulted in variations of the photocurrents by up to 5 orders of magnitude. The maximum in G of 0.75 × 10 4 was measured in the sample with highest dark conductivity. It could be explained conclusively within our model calculations on gain formation by N N ≤ N B . For low gain samples, we found N N > --> N B . However, the measured G values were far from theoretical predictions. This indicates a dominating role of additional traps. After x-ray switch-off, persistent photoconductivity (PPC) was observed in high gain samples. It was attributed to an energetic barrier hampering the recharging of nitrogen atoms by hole capture. As a possible source, strain fields generated by dislocations are suggested. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The fragmentation of fulminic acid, HCNO, after excitation and ionization of core electrons was investigated using Auger-electron–photoion coincidence spectroscopy. A considerable degree of site-selectivity is observed. Ionization of the carbon and oxygen 1s electron leads to around 70% CH+ + NO+, while ionization at the central N-atom produces only 37% CH+ + NO+, but preferentially forms O+ + HCN+ and O+ + CN+. The mass-selected Auger-electron spectra show that these fragments are associated with higher binding energy final states. Furthermore, ionization of the C 1s electron leads to a higher propensity for C–H bond fission compared to O 1s ionization. Following resonant Auger–Meitner decay after 1s → 3π excitation, 12 different ionic products are formed. At the C 1s edge, the parent ion HCNO+ is significantly more stable compared to the other two edges, which we also attribute to the higher contribution of final states with low binding energies in the C 1s resonant Auger electron spectra. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

We present a time-dependent theory for non-resonant x-ray emission spectrum (XES) and normal Auger spectrum (NAS) calculation, based on a fully quantum description of nuclear dynamics using the vibrational wave packet concept. We compare two formulations of the time-dependent theory, either employing a two-time propagation scheme or using spectral integration over the electron energy continuum. We find that the latter formulation is more efficient for numerical simulations, providing a reasonable accuracy when the integration step is shorter than the lifetime broadening of the core-ionized state. We demonstrate our approach using the example of non-resonant x-ray emission from a water molecule, considering the lowest core-ionized K−1 and first core-ionized shake-up K−1V−1V1 intermediate states. These channels exemplify the developed theory on bound–bound, bound–continuum, continuum–bound, and continuum–continuum transitions. Our results suggest that the time-dependent approach is efficient for simulating XES involving dissociative states, whereas the time-independent approach, based on Franck–Condon factors, is more efficient for bound–bound transitions expressed as discrete frequency dependence in the energy domain. The methods and discussion have general applicability, including both NAS and more complex systems, such as liquid water. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

X-ray radiography offers the ability to noninvasively inspect the internal structure and material composition of objects. Dual-energy radiography allows material discrimination but is limited in quantitative material measurements due to the broad nature of the interrogating x-ray spectrum. Spectral radiography detectors provide an observation of not just the number of x rays that are transmitted through a sample but also the spectrum. Here, experimental validations of a method to use spectral x-ray radiography to accurately quantify the uranium mass in a powder are presented. An accurate system response model was developed, which includes a model of the incident x-ray source spectrum and a pixel-wise detector response that describes how the transmitted x rays were observed. Further, a calibration to account for the effect of partial x-ray attenuation was developed. The method is demonstrated to be capable of estimating the uranium mass in a variety of uranium oxide powders to a bias of − 0.01 ± 0.62 %. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

High-flux capable semiconductor x-ray detectors are essential in various applications, but the detrimental effects of detector polarization limit their use in many cases. Here, we studied the polarization of perovskite CsPbBr3 semiconductor detectors using ultrahigh flux synchrotron x rays (106–1012 photons s−1 mm−2 at 58.61 keV). The CsPbBr3 detectors did not show immediate polarization prominently until a flux higher than 1010 photons s−1 mm−2. Using the pump-and-probe technique, we visualized the spatial and temporal effects of polarization. The polarized region, represented by reduced photocurrent, extended beyond the area under direct irradiation, and the reduced photocurrent persisted after potential de-polarization treatments. We found that stronger applied electric fields and fewer carrier traps can mitigate polarization, represented by less photocurrent deficit. By examining the detectors' current response under controlled ambient light, low, and high-flux x rays, we studied the trap filling and release behavior of CsPbBr3. We discovered that the polarization is caused by partial detector damage due to deep defects generated by ultrahigh flux x-ray irradiation. Our work provides insight into CsPbBr3 polarization under extremely intense x-ray radiation and shows that reducing crystal defects and increasing detector bias voltage are effective solutions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

We investigate the interaction between two magnetic layers separated with a normal metal insertion layer (Ti, Pt, and Ru) using x-ray ferromagnetic resonance (XFMR). We measure the amplitude and phase of the ferromagnetic resonance of both layers. Our results indicate that a ferromagnetic exchange coupling between two layers is a dominant coupling mechanism for a thick insertion metal layer. Based on the exchange coupling model, we extract the smallest value of the indirect exchange coefficient of 1.2 μJ/m2, which corresponds to an exchange field of about 0.36 mT. While this value is difficult to measure with other experimental tools, we were able to measure the small value because XFMR detects a resonance phenomenon of a thin layer generated by an oscillating indirect exchange and the Oersted fields with a phase and layer resolved observation. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Characterization of the inner-shell decay processes in molecules containing heavy elements is key to understanding x-ray damage of molecules and materials and for medical applications with Auger-electron-emitting radionuclides. The 1s hole states of heavy atoms can be produced by absorption of tunable x rays and the resulting vacancy decays characterized by recording emitted photons, electrons, and ions. The 1s hole states in heavy elements have large x-ray fluorescence yields that transfer the hole to intermediate electron shells that then decay by sequential Auger-electron transitions that increase the ion's charge state until the final state is reached. In molecules, the charge is spread across the atomic sites, resulting in dissociation to energetic atomic ions. We have used x-ray/ion coincidence spectroscopy to measure charge states and energies of Iq+ and Brq′+ atomic ions following 1s ionization at the I and Br K-edges of IBr. We present the charge states and kinetic energies of the two correlated fragment ions associated with core-excited states produced during the various steps of the cascades. To understand the dynamics leading to the ion data, we develop a computational model that combines Monte-Carlo/Molecular-Dynamics (MC/MD) simulations with a classical over-the-barrier model to track inner-shell cascades and redistribution of electrons in valence orbitals and nuclear motion of fragments. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

We obtained a 108 ks Chandra X-ray Observatory (CXO) observation of PSR J1849-0001 and its pulsar wind nebula (PWN) coincident with the TeV source HESS J1849-000. By analyzing the new and old (archival) CXO data, we resolved the pulsar from the PWN, explored the PWN morphology on arcsecond and arcminute scales, and measured the spectra of different regions of the PWN. Both the pulsar and the compact inner PWN spectra are hard with power-law photon indices of 1.20 ± 0.07 and 1.49 ± 0.20, respectively. The jet-dominated PWN has a relatively low luminosity, lack of γ -ray pulsations, relatively hard and nonthermal spectrum of the pulsar, and sine-like pulse profile, which indicates a relatively small angle between the pulsar's spin and magnetic dipole axis. In this respect, it shares similar properties with a few other so-called MeV pulsars. Although the joint X-ray and TeV spectral energy distribution can be roughly described by a single-zone model, the obtained magnetic field value is unrealistically low. A more realistic scenario is the presence of a relic PWN, no longer emitting synchrotron X-rays but still radiating in TeV via inverse-Compton upscattering. We also serendipitously detected surprisingly bright X-ray emission from a very wide binary whose components should not be interacting. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Long‐lasting radioluminescence scintillators have recently attracted substantial attention from both research and industrial communities, primarily due to their distinctive capabilities of converting and storing X‐ray energy. However, determination of energy‐conversion kinetics in these nanocrystals remains unexplored. Here we present a strategy to probe and unveil energy‐funneling kinetics in NaLuF4:Mn2+/Gd3+ nanocrystal sublattices through Gd3+‐driven microenvironment engineering and Mn2+‐mediated radioluminescence profiling. Our photophysical studies reveal effective control of energy‐funneling kinetics and demonstrate the tunability of electron trap depth ranging from 0.66 to 0.96 eV, with the corresponding trap density varying between 2.38×105 and 1.34×107 cm−3. This enables controlled release of captured electrons over durations spanning from seconds to 30 days. It allows tailorable emission wavelength within the range of 520–580 nm and fine‐tuning of thermally‐stimulated temperature between 313–403 K. We further utilize these scintillators to fabricate high‐density, large‐area scintillation screens that exhibit a 6‐fold improvement in X‐ray sensitivity, 22 lp/mm high‐resolution X‐ray imaging, and a 30‐day‐long optical memory. This enables high‐contrast imaging of injured mice through fast thermally‐stimulated radioluminescence readout. These findings offer new insights into the correlation of radioluminescence dynamics with energy‐funneling kinetics, thereby contributing to the advancement of high‐energy nanophotonic applications. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Strong AGN heating provides an alternative means for the disruption of cluster cool cores (CCs) to cluster mergers. In this work, we present a systematic Chandra study of a sample of 108 nearby (z < 0.1) galaxy clusters, to investigate the effect of AGN heating on CCs. About 40 per cent of clusters with small offsets between the BCG and the X-ray centre (≤50 kpc) have small CCs. For comparison, 14 of 17 clusters with large offsets have small CCs, which suggests that mergers or sloshing can be efficient in reducing the CC size. Relaxed, small CC clusters generally have weak radio AGNs (⁠|$P_{1.4\rm GHz}\lt 10^{23}$|  W Hz−1), and they show a lack of systems hosting a radio AGN with intermediate radio power (⁠|$2\times 10^{23}\lt P_{1.4\rm GHz}\lt 2\times 10^{24}$|  W Hz−1). We found that the strongest circumnuclear (<1 kpc) X-ray emission only exists in clusters with strong radio AGN. The duty cycle of relaxed, small CC clusters is less than half of that for large CC clusters. It suggests that the radio activity of BCGs is affected by the properties of the surrounding gas beyond the central ∼10 kpc, and strong radio AGNs in small X-ray CCs fade more rapidly than those embedded in large X-ray CCs. A scenario is also presented for the transition of large CCs and coronae due to radio AGN feedback. We also present a detailed analysis of galaxy cluster 3C 129.1 as an example of a CC remnant possibly disrupted by radio AGN. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The incoming Imaging X-ray Polarimetry Explorer (IXPE) observations of X-ray binaries provide a new tool to investigate the underlying accretion geometry. Here, we report the first measurements of X-ray polarization of the extragalactic black-hole X-ray binary LMC X−3. We find a polarization fraction of |$\sim 3~{{\ \rm per\ cent}}$| at a polarization angle of ∼135° in the 2–8 keV energy band with statistical significance at the 7σ level. This polarization measurement significantly exceeds the minimum detectable polarization threshold of 1.2 per cent for the source, ascertained at a 99 per cent confidence level within the 2–8 keV energy band. The simultaneous spectro-polarimetric fitting of Neutron Star Interior Composition Explorer, Swift /X-Ray Telescope (XRT), and IXPE revealed the presence of a disc with a temperature of ∼1 keV and a Comptonized component with a power-law index of ∼2.4, confirming the soft nature of the source. The polarization degree increases with energy from ∼3 per cent in the 2–5.7 keV band to ∼9 per cent in the 5.7–8 keV band, while the polarization angle is energy independent. The observed energy dependence and the sudden jump of polarization fraction above 5 keV supports the idea of a static slab coronal geometry for the Comptonizing medium of LMC X−3. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

With an aim to unveil the population of obscured active galactic nuclei (AGN) hosted in high- z dust-obscured galaxies (DOGs), we performed X-ray spectral study of 34 DOGs (0.59 ≤ z ≤ 4.65) lying within 5.3 square degrees of the XMM- Spitzer Extragalactic Representative Volume Survey (XMM-SERVS) coverage in the XMM-Large Scale Structure (XMM-LSS) field. To improve the spectral quality of individual sources, we combined all the existing XMM−Newton data and also included Chandra /Advanced CCD Imaging Spectrometer (ACIS) data, whenever available. We find that the X-ray spectra of our DOGs can be fitted with a simple absorbed power law or with a physically motivated borus02 model. The line-of-sight column densities (N H) in our sources span across a wide range (1.02 × 1022 cm−2 ≤ N H ≤ 1.21 × 1024 cm−2), with a substantial fraction (∼17.6 per cent) of them being heavily obscured (N H ≥ 1023 cm−2). We also identified one new Compton-thick (CT)-AGN candidate, yielding the CT-AGN fraction in our sample to be only 3 per cent. The absorption-corrected 2.0–10 keV X-ray luminosities of our sources (2.00 × 1043 erg s−1 ≤ |$L_{\rm 2-10~keV}^{\rm int}$| ≤ 6.17 ×  1045 erg s−1) suggest them to be luminous quasars. The N H versus Eddington ratio diagnostic plot infers that our sample consists of a heterogeneous population that includes a small fraction (∼12 per cent) of DOGs belonging to an early phase (Hot DOGs) during which accretion and obscuration peaks, while the remaining DOGs belong to an intermediate or late phase during which radiative feedback from the dominant AGN blows away surrounding obscuring material. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

We present the results from an investigation of the energy dependence of quasi-periodic oscillations (QPOs) exhibited by accreting X-ray pulsars using data from archival XMM-Newton, NuSTAR, RXTE , and NICER observations. In a search for the presence of QPOs in 99 XMM-Newton and NuSTAR observations, we detected QPOs in eleven observations of five sources, viz. 4U 1626–67 (48 mHz), IGR J19294+1816 (30 mHz), V 0332+53 (2, 18, and 40 mHz), Cen X–3 (30 mHz), and XTE J1858+034 (180 mHz). A positive correlation of the QPO rms amplitude with energy is exhibited by 4U 1626–67, IGR J19294+1816, Cen X–3 and XTE J1858+034, while no energy dependence is observed in V 0332+53. We also analysed the energy spectrum to decouple thermal (soft-excess) from non-thermal emission and determine if the soft-excess has different QPO properties. We found no evidence for different QPO characteristics of the soft excess. The NuSTAR observations of V 0332+53 during the Type-I outburst in 2016 show the presence of twin QPOs at 2.5 and 18 mHz, while the XMM-Newton and NuSTAR observations during the Type-II outburst in 2015 show a QPO at 40 mHz. We review the observed QPO properties in the context of QPOs found in other types of accreting sources and the models usually used to explain the QPOs in accreting X-ray pulsars. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

• Capable of simulating X-ray signals received by a near-Earth spacecraft. • Capable of providing supporting data for near-Earth space applications of X-ray Pulsar-based Navigation. • It is possible to determine the capacity of the atmosphere at different altitudes to absorb X-ray photons. The near-Earth space holds significant strategic value, and X-ray pulsar-based navigation in this region can diversify navigation methods, enhancing the safety and autonomy of spacecraft. Due to the challenges and high costs associated with obtaining actual measurements of pulsars in near-Earth space, the simulation technology for X-ray pulsar signals in this region can provide input for demonstrating the feasibility of technical solutions and experiments related to the application of X-ray pulsar-based navigation in near-Earth space. Therefore, this paper proposes a method for simulating X-ray signals in near-Earth space. Firstly, a scale transforming method is employed to generate a photon arrival time sequence at the spacecraft that includes energy information. Subsequently, the atmospheric transmittance model is utilized for photon selection, obtaining a sequence of photons that have passed through the atmosphere after absorption. Finally, experimental validation of the proposed algorithm is conducted using Crab pulsar data measured by the Insight-HXMT. The similarity between the simulated data and the measured data is evaluated in terms of profiles, phases, and energy spectra. Simulation experiments demonstrate that the time delay estimation error caused by the simulation algorithm is less than 17.17 us. When the observation tangent point altitude is in the range of 160 km to 180 km, the Pearson correlation coefficient of the profiles between simulated and measured data is 73.74 %. The Pearson residuals of the energy spectra are evenly distributed between −0.2 and 0.2, indicating a good level of similarity between the two. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Radiation shielding materials have been researched using Pb and metal oxide particles, and composites of resin and barium sulfate (BaSO4) have been reported. In addition, multiwalled carbon nanotubes (MWCNTs) have often been used as a nanomaterial to improve the mechanical strength of resin–BaSO4 composites. The literature includes no examples of these two materials—BaSO4 and MWCNTs—being used at the interface of composites. We effectively modified the surface of BaSO4 by a simple process involving strong electrostatic interaction between positively charged barium and negatively charged functional groups on the MWCNT surface. The process is simple and can form large amounts of MWCNTs that coat BaSO4 surfaces. As a result, MWCNTs remained on the BaSO4 surface even after the MWCNT‐coated BaSO4 was washed with a solvent and subjected to melt mixing. The physical anchoring of MWCNTs onto the BaSO4 surface improved the interfacial adhesion and mechanical properties of the resultant composites. The originality of this research is that MWCNTs can be coated onto the surface by only electrostatic interaction without using a polymer adhesive. In addition, the x‐ray shielding performance of the MWCNT‐containing composites was the same as that of composites prepared without the MWCNTs. Highlights: MWCNTs were coated onto the surface of BaSO4 by electrostatic interaction.Interfacial adhesion of PS composites was improved by coating MWCNTs.The MWCNTs did not affect the x‐ray shielding performance. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Objective. Digital breast tomosynthesis (DBT) has significantly improved the diagnosis of breast cancer due to its high sensitivity and specificity in detecting breast lesions compared to two-dimensional mammography. However, one of the primary challenges in DBT is the image blur resulting from x-ray source motion, particularly in DBT systems with a source in continuous-motion mode. This motion-induced blur can degrade the spatial resolution of DBT images, potentially affecting the visibility of subtle lesions such as microcalcifications. Approach. We addressed this issue by deriving an analytical in-plane source blur kernel for DBT images based on imaging geometry and proposing a post-processing image deblurring method with a generative diffusion model as an image prior. Main results. We showed that the source blur could be approximated by a shift-invariant kernel over the DBT slice at a given height above the detector, and we validated the accuracy of our blur kernel modeling through simulation. We also demonstrated the ability of the diffusion model to generate realistic DBT images. The proposed deblurring method successfully enhanced spatial resolution when applied to DBT images reconstructed with detector blur and correlated noise modeling. Significance. Our study demonstrated the advantages of modeling the imaging system components such as source motion blur for improving DBT image quality. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Scintillators with high light yield, spatial resolution, and detection sensitivity are desirable for X‐ray imaging. Howerer, it remains challenging to improve the light yield and radiation detection capability of alkali metal rare‐earth fluoride (ALnF4). Herein, a type of Cu2+ ion heterovalent co‐doped LiLuF4:Tb,Cu microcrystalline scintillation material with high light yield, persistent, and thermostimulated luminescence is obtained by defect engineering. The heterovalent codoping strategy not only increases the radioluminescence (RL) intensity, but also introduces more carrier traps in the material to enhance the long‐afterglow and thermoluminescence intensity of LiLuF4:Tb microcrystals. After doping of 3 mol% Cu2+ ions, the RL efficiency is increased by 88.61%, and the X‐ray detection limit of LiLuF4:Tb,Cu reaches 2.7928 nGy·s‒1. This detectivity is considerably lower than the medical imaging requirements (5.5 µGy·s‒1). Furthermore, a large‐area flexible scintillation film of dimensions 30 × 30 cm2 is prepared to achieve high spatial resolution X‐ray imaging of 22 LP mm−1@MTF(modulation transfer function) = 0.2. Besides, this flexible film enables X‐ray imaging of curved objects and stores optical information for >48 h. This work provides a paradigm for improving the RL intensity and X‐ray detection sensitivity of alkali rare‐earth fluorides by crystal defect engineering, and enriches X‐ray high resolution extended imaging applications. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Photodynamic therapy (PDT) as an emerging therapeutic method has drawn much attention in the treatment field for cancer. Photosensitizer, which can convert photon energy into cytotoxic species under light irradiation, is the core component in PDT. The design of photosensitizers still faces problems of light absorption, targeting, penetration and oxygen dependence. With the rapid progress of material science, various photosensitizers have been developed to produce cytotoxic species for treatment of tumor with high selectivity, safety, and noninvasiveness. Besides, the applications of photosensitizers have been expanded to diverse cancer treatments such as drug release, optogenetics and immune checkpoint blockade. In this review, we summarize the recent advances of photosensitizers in various therapeutic methods for cancer. Prevailing challenges and further prospects associated with photosensitizers are also discussed. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

A fundamental goal of modern-day astrophysics is to understand the connection between supermassive black hole (SMBH) growth and galaxy evolution. Merging galaxies offer one of the most dramatic channels for galaxy evolution known, capable of driving inflows of gas into galactic nuclei, potentially fueling both star formation and central SMBH activity. Dual active galactic nuclei (dual AGNs) in late-stage mergers with nuclear pair separations <10 kpc are thus ideal candidates to study SMBH growth along the merger sequence since they coincide with the most transformative period for galaxies. However, dual AGNs can be extremely difficult to confirm and study. Hard X-ray (>10 keV) studies offer a relatively contamination-free tool for probing the dense obscuring environments predicted to surround the majority of dual AGN in late-stage mergers. To date, only a handful of the brightest and closest systems have been studied at these energies due to the demanding instrumental requirements involved. We demonstrate the unique capabilities of HEX-P to spatially resolve the soft and -- for the first time -- hard X-ray counterparts of closely-separated (~2" -- 5") dual AGNs in the local Universe. By incorporating physically-motivated obscuration models, we reproduce realistic broadband X-ray spectra expected for deeply embedded accreting SMBHs. Hard X-ray spatially resolved observations of dual AGNs -- accessible only to HEX-P -- wiU hence transform our understanding of dual AGN in the nearby Universe. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The underground storage of gases, such as CO2 and H2, in the porous media is a critical component for achieving carbon neutrality and economical energy storage. While previous research has predominantly focused on gas injection in one piece of uniform porous media, and gravity is often neglected, the reality is that natural storage formations are typically multi-layered porous systems. An in-situ gas injection apparatus based on highresolution micro-CT was utilized to investigate gas injection behaviors and failure patterns in layered porous media systems. The system includes a reservoir layer and a cap layer, where both capillarity and permeability are meticulously controlled. Our findings reveal that all cases experience cycles of a pressure built-up period and a sudden pressure release when a barrier, either capillarity or effective stress, is overcome. Drainage conditions within the layered system significantly impact both the volume of gas trapped and the failure patterns observed. Effective stress analyses show that the key determinants of failure patterns are capillarity, effective stress, and excess pore fluid pressure, affected by pore size, cap layer thickness, gas injection rate and permeability. Five distinct failure patterns are categorized: capillary invasion, fracture opening, integral uplifting, local heaving, and violent liquefaction-based on two dimensionless parameters. This work provides new insights into understanding the gas injection dynamics in layered porous media. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Ionization chambers play an essential role in dosimetry measurements for kilovoltage (kV) x‐ray beams. Despite their widespread use, there is limited data on the absolute values for the polarity correction factors across a range of commonly employed ionization chambers. Purpose: This study aimed to investigate the polarity effects for five different ionization chambers in kV x‐ray beams. Methods: Two plane‐parallel chambers being the Advanced Markus and Roos and three cylindrical chambers; 3D PinPoint, Semiflex and Farmer chamber (PTW, Freiburg, Germany), were employed to measure the polarity correction factors. The kV x‐ray beams were produced from an Xstrahl 300 unit (Xstrahl Ltd., UK). All measurements were acquired at 2 cm depth in a PTW‐MP1 water tank for beams between 60 kVp (HVL 1.29 mm Al) and 300 kVp (HVL 3.08 mm Cu), and field sizes of 2–10 cm diameter for 30 cm focus‐source distance (FSD) and 4 × 4 cm2 – 20 × 20 cm2 for 50 cm FSD. The ionization chambers were connected to a PTW‐UNIDOS electrometer, and the polarity effect was determined using the AAPM TG‐61 code of practice methodology. Results: The study revealed significant polarity effects in ionization chambers, especially in those with smaller volumes. For the plane‐parallel chambers, the Advanced Markus chamber exhibited a maximum polarity effect of 2.5%, whereas the Roos chamber showed 0.3% at 150 KVp with the 10 cm circular diameter open‐ended applicator. Among the cylindrical chambers at the same beam energy and applicator, the Pinpoint chamber exhibited a 3% polarity effect, followed by Semiflex with 1.7%, and Farmer with 0.4%. However, as the beam energy increased to 300 kVp, the polarity effect significantly increased reaching 8.5% for the Advanced Markus chamber and 13.5% for the PinPoint chamber at a 20 × 20 cm2 field size. Notably, the magnitude of the polarity effect increased with both the field size and beam energy, and was significantly influenced by the size of the chamber's sensitive volume. Conclusions: The findings demonstrate that ionization chambers can exhibit substantial polarity effects in kV x‐ray beams, particularly for those chambers with smaller volumes. Therefore, it is important to account for polarity corrections when conducting relative dose measurements in kV x‐ray beams to enhance the dosimetry accuracy and improve patient dose calculations. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: Pulmonary emphysema is a part of chronic obstructive pulmonary disease, which is an irreversible chronic respiratory disease. In order to avoid further damage to lung tissue, early diagnosis and treatment of pulmonary emphysema is essential. Purpose: Early pulmonary emphysema diagnosis is difficult with conventional radiographic imaging. Recently, x‐ray phase contrast imaging has proved to be an effective and promising imaging strategy for soft tissue, due to its high sensitivity and multi‐contrast. The aim of this study is to diagnose pulmonary emphysema early utilizing an x‐ray Talbot‐Lau interferometer (TLI). Methods: We successfully established the mouse model of emphysema by porcine pancreatic elastase treatment, and then used the established x‐ray TLI to perform imaging experiments on the mice with different treatment time. The traditional absorption CT and phase contrast CT were obtained simultaneously through TLI. The CT results and histopathology of mice lung in different treatment time were quantitatively analyzed. Results: By imaging mice lungs, it can be found that phase contrast has higher sensitivity than absorption contrast in early pulmonary emphysema. The results show that the phase contrast signal could distinguish the pulmonary emphysema earlier than the conventional attenuation signal, which can be consistent with histological images. Through the quantitative analysis of pathological section and phase contrast CT, it can be found that there is a strong linear correlation. Conclusions: In this study, we quantitatively analyze mean linear intercept of histological sections and CT values of mice. The results show that the phase contrast signal has higher imaging sensitivity than the attenuation signal. X‐ray TLI multi‐contrast imaging is proved as a potential diagnostic method for early pulmonary emphysema in mice. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Background: The increasing use of complex and high dose‐rate treatments in radiation therapy necessitates advanced detectors to provide accurate dosimetry. Rather than relying on pre‐treatment quality assurance (QA) measurements alone, many countries are now mandating the use of in vivo dosimetry, whereby a dosimeter is placed on the surface of the patient during treatment. Ideally, in vivo detectors should be flexible to conform to a patient's irregular surfaces. Purpose: This study aims to characterize a novel hydrogenated amorphous silicon (a‐Si:H) radiation detector for the dosimetry of therapeutic x‐ray beams. The detectors are flexible as they are fabricated directly on a flexible polyimide (Kapton) substrate. Methods: The potential of this technology for application as a real‐time flexible detector is investigated through a combined dosimetric and flexibility study. Measurements of fundamental dosimetric quantities were obtained including output factor (OF), dose rate dependence (DPP), energy dependence, percentage depth dose (PDD), and angular dependence. The response of the a‐Si:H detectors investigated in this study are benchmarked directly against commercially available ionization chambers and solid‐state diodes currently employed for QA practices. Results: The a‐Si:H detectors exhibit remarkable dose linearities in the direct detection of kV and MV therapeutic x‐rays, with calibrated sensitivities ranging from (0.580 ± 0.002) pC/cGy to (19.36 ± 0.10) pC/cGy as a function of detector thickness, area, and applied bias. Regarding dosimetry, the a‐Si:H detectors accurately obtained OF measurements that parallel commercially available detector solutions. The PDD response closely matched the expected profile as predicted via Geant4 simulations, a PTW Farmer ionization chamber and a PTW ROOS chamber. The most significant variation in the PDD performance was 5.67%, observed at a depth of 3 mm for detectors operated unbiased. With an external bias, the discrepancy in PDD response from reference data was confined to ± 2.92% for all depths (surface to 250 mm) in water‐equivalent plastic. Very little angular dependence is displayed between irradiations at angles of 0° and 180°, with the most significant variation being a 7.71% decrease in collected charge at a 110° relative angle of incidence. Energy dependence and dose per pulse dependence are also reported, with results in agreement with the literature. Most notably, the flexibility of a‐Si:H detectors was quantified for sample bending up to a radius of curvature of 7.98 mm, where the recorded photosensitivity degraded by (−4.9 ± 0.6)% of the initial device response when flat. It is essential to mention that this small bending radius is unlikely during in vivo patient dosimetry. In a more realistic scenario, with a bending radius of 15–20 mm, the variation in detector response remained within ± 4%. After substantial bending, the detector's photosensitivity when returned to a flat condition was (99.1 ± 0.5)% of the original response. Conclusions: This work successfully characterizes a flexible detector based on thin‐film a‐Si:H deposited on a Kapton substrate for applications in therapeutic x‐ray dosimetry. The detectors exhibit dosimetric performances that parallel commercially available dosimeters, while also demonstrating excellent flexibility results. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

As total ankle arthroplasty (TAA) is an increasingly common surgical intervention for patients with end-stage ankle arthritis, there is a need to better understand the dynamic performance of prosthetic implants during activities of daily living. Our purpose was to quantify and compare relative tibiotalar motion during gait in persons with a fixed-bearing (FB) and mobile-bearing (MB) total ankle arthroplasty. We hypothesized a FB prosthesis would have lower tibiotalar range of motion (ROM). Patients at least 12 months postoperative with either a FB (n=5) or MB (n=3) total ankle arthroplasty were tested. We used high-speed biplanar videoradiography to quantify tibiotalar kinematics during self-selected gait. Angular and linear ROM in three axes were compared between the groups. ROM for dorsiflexion-plantarflexion, internal-external rotation, and inversion-eversion angles in FB subjects averaged 7.47±4.05°, 7.39±3.63°, and 4.51±2.13°, respectively. ROM in MB subjects averaged 6.74±2.04°, 6.28±4.51°, and 5.68±2.81°, respectively. Linear ROM along anteroposterior, mediolateral, and superior-inferior axes in FB subjects averaged 1.47±2.07 mm, 1.13±1.49 mm, and 0.28±0.30 mm, respectively. Linear ROM in MB subjects averaged 0.68±1.44 mm, 0.60±1.41 mm, and 0.20±0.13 mm, respectively. We found no significant difference between the two groups for any of these ROM parameters (p>0.05). Total ankle arthroplasty using either FB or MB design appears to confer similar ankle motion during the gait cycle in this biplanar fluoroscopic model. Level IV, case series. • X-ray motion analysis is a useful tool to compare ankle arthroplasty systems. • No differences in angular motion between MB and FB arthroplasty systems. • No significant difference in linear translation along joint axes in both systems. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Pelvic incidence (PI)–lumbar lordosis (LL) mismatch has a significant destabilizing effect on the center of gravity sway in the static standing position. However, the association between spinopelvic alignment and balance during gait in healthy volunteers is poorly understood. The degree of PI–LL mismatch and trunk anterior tilt in the static standing posture influences dynamic balance during gait. In this study, 131 healthy volunteers were divided into two groups: harmonious group (PI − LL ≤ 10°; n = 91) and unharmonious group (PI − LL > 10°; n = 40). A two-point accelerometer system was used for gait analysis; accelerometers were attached to the pelvis and upper trunk to measure acceleration in the forward–backward, right–left, and vertical directions so that sagittal (front–back) deviation width, coronal (right–left) width, and vertical width and their ratios were calculated. Measurements were compared between the two groups, and correlations between alignment and accelerometer data were examined. The harmonious group showed a negative correlation between pelvic sagittal width and PI – LL, pelvic tilt (PT), and sagittal vertical axis (SVA) (correlation coefficient ρ = −0.42, −0.38, and −0.4, respectively), and a positive correlation between sagittal ratio and PI − LL (ρ = 0.35). The unharmonious group showed a positive correlation between pelvic sagittal width and PI and PT (ρ = 0.43 and 0.33, respectively) and between sagittal ratio and SVA (ρ = 0.32). The unharmonious group showed a positive correlation between upper trunk sagittal width and PI − LL and PT (ρ = 0.38 and 0.36, respectively). The association between spinal alignment and gait parameters differs depending on the presence or absence of PI–LL mismatch. The degree of pelvic compensation and trunk anterior tilt during static standing were associated with unstable gait balance. • Subjects without PI–LL mismatch reduces pelvic movement during gait with compensation. • Poor compensated subjects with PI–LL mismatch increased upper trunk sway during gait. • Static standing spinal alignment associated with trunk sway during gait. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The purpose of this study was to evaluate the efficacy of an Artificial Intelligence Large Language Model (AI-LLM) at improving the readability foot and ankle orthopedic radiology reports. The radiology reports from 100 foot or ankle X-Rays, 100 computed tomography (CT) scans and 100 magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) scans were randomly sampled from the institution's database. The following prompt command was inserted into the AI-LLM: "Explain this radiology report to a patient in layman's terms in the second person: [Report Text]". The mean report length, Flesch reading ease score (FRES) and Flesch-Kincaid reading level (FKRL) were evaluated for both the original radiology report and the AI-LLM generated report. The accuracy of the information contained within the AI-LLM report was assessed via a 5-point Likert scale. Additionally, any "hallucinations" generated by the AI-LLM report were recorded. There was a statistically significant improvement in mean FRES scores in the AI-LLM generated X-Ray report (33.8 ± 6.8 to 72.7 ± 5.4), CT report (27.8 ± 4.6 to 67.5 ± 4.9) and MRI report (20.3 ± 7.2 to 66.9 ± 3.9), all p < 0.001. There was also a statistically significant improvement in mean FKRL scores in the AI-LLM generated X-Ray report (12.2 ± 1.1 to 8.5 ± 0.4), CT report (15.4 ± 2.0 to 8.4 ± 0.6) and MRI report (14.1 ± 1.6 to 8.5 ± 0.5), all p < 0.001. Superior FRES scores were observed in the AI-LLM generated X-Ray report compared to the AI-LLM generated CT report and MRI report, p < 0.001. The mean Likert score for the AI-LLM generated X-Ray report, CT report and MRI report was 4.0 ± 0.3, 3.9 ± 0.4, and 3.9 ± 0.4, respectively. The rate of hallucinations in the AI-LLM generated X-Ray report, CT report and MRI report was 4%, 7% and 6%, respectively. AI-LLM was an efficacious tool for improving the readability of foot and ankle radiological reports across multiple imaging modalities. Superior FRES scores together with superior Likert scores were observed in the X-Ray AI-LLM reports compared to the CT and MRI AI-LLM reports. This study demonstrates the potential use of AI-LLMs as a new patient-centric approach for enhancing patient understanding of their foot and ankle radiology reports. Jel Classifications: IV [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Purpose: Magnetic growing rods (MGRs) are one of the most common procedures to treat early-onset scoliosis (EOS). Radiographic examinations (X-ray) or ultrasonographic (US) assessments are used to evaluate the lengthening of the rods. X-ray exposes patients to radiation, while the US has not been validated and may be affected by the radiologist's ability to assess elongation. The research question of the present study is to compare the difference between US and X-ray growth assessments in EOS patients treated with MGRs. Methods: The study enrolled 65 patients consecutively from July 2011 to July 2022. Noninvasive lengthening was performed every four months, and X-ray follow-up was performed at different intervals. An experienced radiologist assessed the mean US rod elongation per session. The mean elongation/session of T2-T12 and T2-S1 was calculated, and the results were compared using an independent t-test. Results: The mean age at operation was 8.8 ± 2 years, and the mean follow-up was four ± two years. The average rod elongation assessed by the US was 3.1 ± 0.1 mm. The average rod elongation evaluated by X-ray was 1.2 ± 2.9 mm (T2-T12) and 1.8 ± 1.9 mm (T2-S1). The difference between the values measured by US and X-ray was statistically significant in the T2-T12 group (p < 0.05) and not significant in the T2-S1 group (p = 0.34). Conclusions: This is the most extensive single-center study comparing US and X-ray data for MGRs in EOS patients. US overestimates thoracic spine elongation compared to X-ray. US elongation analysis could be appropriate in long thoracolumbar curves. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The secondary metabolite Monacolin K (MK), derived from Monascus , exhibits potential lipid-lowering and anti-tumor effects. In this study, a mutant strain M. purpureus M400–6 was generated through X-ray treatment, resulting in an average MK production of 181.97 mg/L (a 54.20% increase compared to the parent strain M. purpureus M1) over five successive generations. Furthermore, optimization of medium compositions using response surface methodology led to a further enhancement in MK production by the mutant strain to 266.63 mg/L. Moreover, based on the outcomes of single-factor experiments, the addition of L-citrulline demonstrated a significantly higher level of enhancement in MK production. Therefore, a comparative transcriptome analysis was conducted to unveil the impact of L-citrulline on MK biosynthesis in M. purpureus. The data revealed a significant upregulation of glycolysis pathways, while oxidative phosphorylation including the TCA cycle and the electron transport chain, exhibited significant downregulation. Furthermore, the metabolisms of serine, glycine, threonine, alanine, aspartic acid and glutamate were found to be significantly disturbed. Additionally, the expressions of MPs and MK biosynthetic gene cluster showed a significant downregulation and upregulation respectively. Overall, these findings provide insights into enhancing MK production in submerged fermentation and elucidate the impact of L-citrulline on secondary metabolism. [Display omitted] • M. purpureus M400–6 with high MK production was generated through X-ray treatment. • L-citrulline can significantly enhance the MK production. • Response surface methodology was performed to further increase the MK production. • Transcriptome analysis reveals the impact of L-citrulline on MK biosynthesis. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Hydrophobic treatment for cementitious material is one of the effective methods to improve the durability of concrete structures. In this study, the pore system of cementitious materials modified by a new type of carboxylic acid hydrophobic agent is reconstructed by X-ray computed tomography technology. The changes in porosity, the connectivity degree in 2D / 3D space, the tortuosity and permeability of samples with hydrophobic agents are investigated. The experimental and simulation results show that the addition of a hydrophobic agent will tremendously increase the volume of a large pore but the solid phase observed in pore space can be confirmed to be the calcium carboxylate flaky crystals which modify the water transportation channels. In conclusion, the change of transportation channel from the surface can explain the hydrophobicity of cement pastes in the presence of a hydrophobic agent. This study provides a new perspective to reveal the hydrophobic mechanism of cement-based materials and guidance to design the new microstructure of cementitious materials [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this paper, X‐ray‐activated super long persistent ultraviolet A luminescence from Ca3(PO4)2: Ce3+ has been observed. The crystal structure analysis has shown that the as‐prepared samples are pure β‐Ca3(PO4)2 phases with rhombohedral structure and R3c space group. The photoluminescent spectra of the samples all consist of a broad band in 340–400 nm UVA1 region, which is assigned to the 5d1–4f1 electronic transition of Ce3+ ions. More important, under the 3 min X‐ray irradiation, Ca3(PO4)2: Ce3+ show super long persistent luminescence in the UVA1 region, which can persist for more than 16 h. And its afterglow intensity after 16 h decay is still 4.10 times stronger of the back ground intensity. Furthermore, only 10 s X‐ray irradiation can induce excellent long persistent UVA luminescence of Ca3(PO4)2: 0.08Ce3+, which can persist for more than 5 h and afterglow emission intensity is about 3.03 times of the background intensity. The trap analysis has confirmed that the different X‐ray irradiation time do not create new traps and there is the same trap with 0.75 eV trap depth existing even under the extremely low X‐ray dose (10 s X‐ray irradiation). Furthermore, under 10 s X‐ray irradiation, the thermoluminescence (TL) intensity of Ca3(PO4)2: 0.08Ce3+ still reaches 0.32 times of the initial TL intensity even after 120 min, which thus leads to the super long persistent luminescence. Thus, the large amounts of trapped electrons induced by the high energy X‐ray irradiation are the principal cause for super long persistent UVA luminescence of Ca3(PO4)2: Ce3+. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this work, we study the mechanisms of X‐ray induced darkening in the Dy/Al/P co‐doped silica glasses at visible wavelengths and explore the role of P/Al ratio played in the enhancement of irradiation resistance. The absorption, emission spectra and lifetime, Raman, and electron paramagnetic resonance spectra of pristine and irradiated Dy‐silica glasses as a function of P/Al ratio were measured and analyzed. The Si‐related defects (Si‐E′ and non‐bridge oxygen hole center), Al‐related defects (Al‐E′ and Al‐related oxygen hole center), P‐related defects (P‐OHC and P2), and Dy2+ ions were studied and analyzed. Results demonstrate that increasing P/Al is efficient to suppress the photodarkening in Dy‐silica glasses at visible wavelengths. Results imply that Dy‐silica glasses with P/Al > 1 may be a promising candidate for efficient visible fiber lasers operated at around 575 nm wavelength. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

This study aimed at examining the bond strength between zirconia and ceramic veneer, following the ISO 9693 guidelines. A total of fifty specimens of zirconia/ceramic‐veneer system were produced using two commercial zirconias (VITA YZ‐HTWhite and Zolid HT+ White, referred to as Group A and Group B, respectively) and a ceramic‐veneering material (Zirkonia 750). The microstructure (via x‐ray diffraction analysis, XRD and Secondary Electron mode, SEM) and the mechanical properties (via 3‐point bending tests) of the two groups were assessed. Then, experiments were conducted according to the ISO 9693 and conventional protocols applied for producing zirconia/ceramic‐veneer restorations. Bond strength values, measured by 3‐point bending tests, were 34.42 ± 7.60 MPa for Group A and 31.92 ± 6.95 MPa for Group B. SEM observations of the cohesively fractured surfaces (on the porcelain side) and the examination for normality using the Shapiro–Wilk test suggested the use of Weibull statistical analysis. Median strength (σ50%) for Group A and Group B was 34.76 and 32.22 MPa, while the characteristic strength (σ63.2%) was 35.78 and 33.14 MPa, respectively. The Weibull modulus disparity between groups (12.69 and 13.07) was not significant. Bond strength exceeded the ISO 9693 minimum of 20 MPa, suggesting satisfactory strength for clinical use. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

We investigated the effects of X‐ray beam damage during X‐ray photoelectron spectroscopy measurement on LiNiO2 electrodes. The degree of damage induced by lab‐based and synchrotron X‐ray radiation has been compared between pristine and cycled electrodes, highlighting the role of positive solid electrode–electrolyte interphase to protect the cycled LiNiO2 surface from beam damage. The possible steps to avoid or at least reduce the beam‐induced effects are outlined. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In 1931, Hermann J. Muller's postdoctoral student, George D. Snell (Nobel Prize recipient––1980) initiated research to replicate with mice Muller's X-ray-induced mutational findings with fruit flies. Snell failed to induce the two types of mutations of interest, based on fly data (sex-linked lethals/recessive visible mutations) even though the study was well designed, used large doses of X-rays, and was published in Genetics. These findings were never cited by Muller, and the Snell paper (Snell, Genetics 20:545–567, 1935) did not cite the 1927 Muller paper (Muller, Science 66:84, 1927). This situation raises questions concerning how Snell wrote the paper (e.g., ignoring the significance of not providing support for Muller's findings in a mammal). The question may be raised whether professional pressures were placed upon Snell to downplay the significance of his findings, which could have negatively impacted the career of Muller and the LNT theory. While Muller would receive worldwide attention, and receive the Nobel Prize in 1946 "for the discovery that mutations can be induced by X-rays," Snell's negative mutation data were almost entirely ignored by his contemporary and subsequent radiation genetics/mutation researchers. This raises questions concerning how the apparent lack of interest in Snell's negative findings helped Muller professionally, including his success in using his fruit fly data to influence hereditary and cancer risk assessment and to obtain the Nobel Prize. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

While 30 Dor C is a unique superbubble in the Large Magellanic Cloud for its luminous non-thermal X-ray emission, the thermal X-ray emission it emanates has not yet been thoroughly investigated and well constrained. Based on the separate ∼1 Ms deep XMM–Newton and Chandra observations, we report the discovery of the thermally emitting plasma in some portions of the western half of 30 Dor C. The thermal emission can be reproduced by a collisional-ionization-equilibrium plasma model with an average electron temperature of ∼0.4 keV. We find a significant overabundance of the intermediate-mass elements such as O, Ne, Mg, and Si, which may be indicative of a recent supernova explosion in 30 Dor C. Dynamical properties in combination with the information of the OB association LH 90 suggest that the internal post-main-sequence stars dominate the power of the superbubble and blow it out in the past ∼1 Myr. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Intensive broad-band reverberation mapping campaigns have shown that AGN variability is significantly more complex than expected from disc reverberation of the variable X-ray illumination. The UV/optical variability is highly correlated and lagged, with longer lags at longer wavelengths as predicted, but the observed time-scales are longer than expected. Worse, the UV/optical light curves are not well correlated with the X-rays, which should drive them. Instead, we consider an intrinsically variable accretion disc, where slow mass accretion rate fluctuations are generated in the optical-UV disc, propagating down to modulate intrinsically faster X-ray variability from the central regions. We match our model to Fairall 9, a well-studied AGN with L ∼ 0.1 L Edd, where the spectrum is dominated by the UV/EUV. Our model produces light curves where the X-rays and UV have very different fast variability, yet are well correlated on longer time-scales, as observed. It predicts that the intrinsic variability has optical/UV leading the X-rays, but including reverberation of the variable EUV from an inner wind produces a lagged bound-free continuum that matches the observed UV-optical lags. We conclude that optical/UV AGN variability is likely driven by intrinsic fluctuations within the disc, not X-ray reprocessing: the observed longer than expected lags are produced by reverberation of the EUV illuminating a wind, not by X-ray illumination of the disc: the increasing lag with increasing wavelength is produced by the increased contribution of the (constant lag) bound-free continuum to the spectrum, rather than indicating intrinsically larger reverberation distances for longer wavelengths. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

The origins of quasi-periodic eruptions (QPEs) are poorly understood, although most theoretical explanations invoke an accretion disc around a supermassive black hole. The gas and stellar environments in the galactic nuclei of these sources are also poorly constrained. In this paper, we present an analysis of archival Hubble Space Telescope (HST) images to study the narrow-line [O  iii ] emission in the QPE source GSN 069. We find strong evidence for a compact nuclear [O  iii ] emission region of size ≲ 35 pc, overlaid on top of extended [O  iii ] emission up to 1 kpc away from the nucleus. The age of the accretion system is estimated to be between 10 and 100 yr. The [O  iii ] luminosity of the compact region was measured to be |$(2.1 \pm 0.3) \times 10^{40}\, \rm erg\, s^{-1}$|⁠. Based on cloudy simulations, we constrain that the [O  iii ] emitting gas has a hydrogen number density in the range |$2 \times 10^{3} \lt n_{\rm H} \lesssim 10^{8}\, \rm cm^{-3}$| and volume filling factor f V < 4 × 10−3. We suggest that the dense gas in the nuclear region of GSN 069 originates from molecular clouds (with total mass |$\gtrsim 3 \times 10^{3}\, {\rm M}_{\odot }$|⁠), which are freshly ionized by the soft X-ray photons from the accretion disc. We predict possible evolution of the compact narrow-line region on emission-line diagnostic diagrams, and hence future HST or integral-field unit observations can be used to further pin down the age of this puzzling system. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Diagnostic reference levels (DRLs) and achievable doses (ADs) provide guidance to optimise radiation doses for patients undergoing medical imaging procedures. This multi-centre study aimed to compare institutional DRLs (IDRLs) across hospitals, propose ADs and multi-centric DRLs (MCDRLs) for four common x-ray examinations in Sri Lanka, and assess the potential for dose reduction. A prospective cross-sectional study of 894 adult patients referred for abdomen anteroposterior (AP), kidney-ureter-bladder (KUB) AP, lumbar spine AP, and lumbar spine lateral (LAT) x-ray examinations was conducted. Patient demographic information (age, sex, weight, BMI) and exposure parameters (tube voltage, tube current-exposure time product) were collected. Patient dose indicators were measured in terms of kerma-area product (PKA) using a PKA meter. IDRLs, ADs, and MCDRLs were calculated following the International Commission on Radiological Protection guidelines, with ADs and MCDRLs defined as the 50th and 75th percentiles of the median PKA distributions, respectively. IDRL ranges varied considerably across hospitals: 1.42–2.42 Gy cm2 for abdomen AP, 1.51–2.86 Gy cm2 for KUB AP, 0.83–1.65 Gy cm2 for lumbar spine AP, and 1.76–4.10 Gy cm2 for lumbar spine LAT. The proposed ADs were 1.82 Gy cm2 (abdomen AP), 2.03 Gy cm2 (KUB AP), 1.27 Gy cm2 (lumbar spine AP), and 2.21 Gy cm2 (lumbar spine LAT). MCDRLs were 2.24 Gy cm2 (abdomen AP), 2.40 Gy cm2 (KUB AP), 1.43 Gy cm2 (lumbar spine AP), and 2.38 Gy cm2 (lumbar spine LAT). Substantial intra- and inter-hospital variations in PKA were observed for all four examinations. Although ADs and MCDRLs in Sri Lanka were comparable to those in the existing literature, the identified intra- and inter-hospital variations underscore the need for dose reduction without compromising diagnostic information. Hospitals with high IDRLs are recommended to review and optimise their practices. These MCDRLs serve as preliminary national DRLs, guiding dose optimisation efforts by medical professionals and policymakers. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

In this article we characterize the range of the attenuated and non-attenuated X-ray transform of compactly supported symmetric tensor fields in the Euclidean plane. The characterization is in terms of a Hilbert-transform associated with A-analytic maps in the sense of Bukhgeim. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]

Rational design of unnatural amino acid building blocks capable of stabilizing predictable secondary structures similar to protein fragments is pivotal for foldamer chemistry/catalysis. Here, we introduce novel β‐amino acid building blocks: [1S,2R,4R]exoCDA and [1S,2S,4R]endoCDA, derived from the abundantly available R(+)‐camphor, which is traditionally known for its medicinal value. Further, we demonstrate that the homooligomers of exoCDA adopt 6‐strand conformation, which switches to a robust 10/12‐helix simply by inserting flexible β‐hGly spacer at alternate positions (1 : 1 β‐hGly/exoCDA heterooligomers), as evident by DFT‐calculations, solution‐state NMR spectroscopy and X‐ray crystallography. To the best of our knowledge, this is the first example of crystalline‐state structure of left‐handed 10/12‐mixed helix, that is free from the conventional approach of employing β‐amino acids of either alternate chirality or alternate β2/β3 substitutions, to access the 10/12‐helix. The results also show that the homooligomers of heterochiral exoCDA don′t adopt helical fold, instead exhibit banana‐shaped strands, whereas the homodimers of the other diastereomer endoCDA, nucleate 8‐membered turns. Furthermore, the homo‐exoCDA and hetero‐[β‐hGly‐exoCDA] oligomers are found to exhibit self‐association properties with distinct morphological features. Overall, the results offer new possibilties of constructing discrete stable secondary and tertiary structures based on CDAs, which can accommodate flexible residues with desired side‐chain substitutions. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]