bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Drastic enhancement of electronic correlations induced by hydrogen insertion in the cerium intermetallic compound CeFeSi
Authors: Sourd J , Vignolle B , Gaudin E , Burdin S , Tencé S
Published: November 2024

We report a comparative study of two cerium-based intermetallic compounds: CeFeSi with an anti-PbFCl type structure, and CeFeSiH with a ZrCuSiAs type structure. The latter is obtained from CeFeSi through hydrogen insertion. Our results are based on x-rays, transport, thermodynamic and magnetic measurements. While the tetragonal structure with P4/nmm symmetry remains unchanged after hydrogen insertion, the thermodynamic, magnetic, and transport properties change drastically. On the one hand, CeFeSi behaves as a Pauli paramagnet with a small Sommerfeld coefficient, indicating the absence of 4f electron physics. On the other hand, our study shows that CeFeSiH exhibits strong magnetic fluctuations with a magnetic transition at 3.5 K, and coherent Kondo-lattice heavy-fermion features.
Thickness-dependent structural and growth evolution in relation to dielectric relaxation behavior and correlated barrier hopping conduction mechanism in Ni0.5Co0.5Fe2O4 ferrite thin films
Authors: Sahu Somnath , Balmuchu Shashi Priya , Dobbidi Pamu
Published: November 2024

Ferrite thin films are explored due to their promising properties, which are essential in various advanced electronic devices. However, depositing a film with pure phase and uniform microstructure is challenging. The Ni0.5Co0.5Fe2O4 ferrite thin films are deposited using pulsed laser deposition technique to explore the effect of thickness on structural properties, growth evolution, temperature-dependent dielectric behavior, and conduction mechanisms. Microstructural analysis revealed that the films are uniformly grown, exhibiting surface roughness ranging from ∼2 to 4 nm. The dielectric response, adhering to a modified Debye model, exhibited multiple relaxation processes, with notable changes in the dielectric constant and loss as film thickness increased. Impedance spectra exhibited both space charge and dipolar relaxation phenomena, corroborated by Cole–Cole and electrical modulus plots. The analysis of the imaginary electric modulus using the Kohlrausch–Williams–Watts function revealed non-Debye-type relaxation in all deposited films, characterized by thermally activated broad peaks. Conductivity decreased up to a certain film thickness, and the frequency exponent derived from Jonscher’s power law suggested a correlated barrier hopping model for AC conduction. Activation energies improved with film thickness up to 125 nm, consistent with a constant energy barrier for polarons during relaxation and conduction phases. The film with 125 nm thickness exhibited the optimal dielectric properties, with the maximum dielectric constant, minimum dielectric loss, and highest activation energy. These findings highlight the potential of dense, uniformly grown films with high dielectric constants and low dielectric losses for advanced electronic device applications.
Self-sensing cementitious composites for structural health monitoring: recent advances and challenges and future prospects
Authors: Roshan Mohammad Jawed , Correia António Gomes , Fangueiro Raul , Mendes Paulo Mateus
Published: November 2024

Structural health monitoring (SHM) (early detection of degradation, cracks, and damage) of civil engineering infrastructures plays a vital role in extending their service lifespans and decreasing maintenance costs. Thus, self-sensing cementitious composites have attracted significant attention in recent years. However, application of self-sensing cementitious composites in SHM still faces several challenges. This review summarizes the latest advances in self-sensing cementitious composites. First, the components of self-sensing cementitious composites featuring matrix materials, conductive fillers (metal- and carbon-based), dispersion techniques for carbon-based conductive fillers, fabrication, measurement systems, and conductivity mechanisms are discussed. The electromechanical characteristics of self-sensing cementitious composites and challenges posed in their application are comprehensively and critically discussed.
Influence of the nature of the distribution of recombination centers in the space charge region of the p–n junction on the parameters of the current–voltage characteristics within the classical Shockley and Shockley–Noyce–Sah models
Authors: Manyakhin Fedor I , Varlamov Dmitry O , Morketsova Lyudmila O , Skvortsov Arkady A , Nikolaev Vladimir K
Published: November 2024

The behavior of current–voltage characteristics (CVC) within the classical Shockley and Shockley–Noyce–Sah models depending on the nature of the distribution of recombination centers in the space charge region of the p–n junction was analyzed. Notably, the non-ideality factor determined from experimental CVC cannot be introduced into the exponent of the mathematical model of the CVC because it is unrelated to the physical nature of the exponentials of classical models but indicates the voltage dependence of the pre-exponential factor of the recombination component of the total current. The exponential factor of the model with a non-ideality factor describing the experimental CVC presents only a mathematical approximation of a small portion of it.
Superresolution in separation estimation between two dynamic incoherent sources using spatial demultiplexing
Authors: Schlichtholz Konrad , Rudnicki Łukasz
Published: November 2024

Achieving resolution in the sub-Rayleigh regime (superresolution) is one of the rapidly developing topics in quantum optics and metrology. Recently, it was shown that perfect measurement based on spatial mode demultiplexing (SPADE) in Hermite–Gauss modes allows one to reach the quantum limit of precision for estimation of separation between two weak incoherent stationary sources. Since then, different imperfections such as misalignment or crosstalk between modes have been studied to check how this result translates into more realistic experimental setups. In this paper, we consider another deviation from the perfect setup by discarding the assumption about the stationarity of the sources. This is relevant for example for astrophysical applications where planets necessarily orbit around the star. We analyze two examples of dynamics: rotations and oscillations, showing the robustness of the SPADE-based measurement against them. The analysis is based on Fisher information, which allows one to obtain the precision limit through Cramér–Rao bound. Furthermore, we formulate a measurement algorithm that allows for the reduction of one parameter for estimation (system orientation angle) in the stationary sources scenario, maintaining the measurement precision despite the lack of knowledge about this parameter.
Asymptotic nonlinear stability of traveling waves to a chemotaxis model with logarithmic sensitivity and nonlinear production
Authors: Zhu Neng , Wang Cong , Wang Wanwan
Published: November 2024

This paper is concerned with the existence and nonlinear stability of traveling wave solutions to a chemotaxis model with logarithmic sensitivity and nonlinear production

u

t

−

(
u
v
)

x

=
D

u

x
x

,

(
⋆
)

v

t

+

ε

v

2

−

u

2

x

=
ε

v

x
x

,

for

x
∈
R

, t ≥ 0, D > 0, ε > 0, and the initial data

(
u
,
v
)
(
x
,
0
)
=
(

u

0

,

v

0

)
(
x
)
⟶

(

u

−

,

v

−

)
,

x
→
−
∞
,

(

u

+

,

v

+

)
,

x
→
+
∞
.

Based on the phase plane analysis method, we establish the existence of traveling fronts to the system (⋆). The asymptotic nonlinear stability of traveling wave solutions to the system (⋆) is identified for u
+ > 0 and u
+ = 0 by weighted energy estimate methods, respectively. Compared with the previous results, our results do not require any smallness assumption on the wave strengths.
Imaging quality prediction and preload optimization for a precision optical system considering assembly errors
Authors: Wang Xingjie , Gong Hao , Liu Jianhua , Xue Fenqi
Published: November 2024

With the gradual enhancement in the accuracy of machining and the consistency of quality in precision optical components, the assembly process has emerged as a critical phase influencing the imaging quality of precision optical systems. The ability to accurately and swiftly predict the imaging quality of these systems under various assembly errors, along with optimization of processing, can facilitate the assembly of optical systems. In this research, an integrated optomechanical simulation approach was introduced, taking into account various assembly errors. This approach involved simulating the tightening process of bolts within the optical system, and the resulting mirror deformation due to bolt preloading was derived and fitted using Zernike polynomials. Furthermore, Zeman software was utilized to model the imaging quality of the optical system, factoring in both mirror deformation and posture deviations. The effects of different assembly errors on the energy concentration of the optical system were systematically examined. A dataset comprising preloads, posture deviations, and their corresponding energy concentrations was created. Ultimately, a surrogate model incorporating a combined MLP-XGBoost neural network was developed and trained on this dataset. The model’s superiority and reliability regarding prediction accuracy were confirmed through comparisons with MLP and XGBoost models, as well as traditional regression models (BP and SVR). Additionally, the stochastic gradient descent method was applied to optimize the preload magnitudes under various posture deviations of the primary and secondary mirrors. The findings indicated an average improvement of 11.34% in energy concentration compared to the values prior to optimization. This method significantly enhances the assembly efficiency and precision of the dual-reflector optical system.
Nanofluid dissipative Reiner-Philippoff model with thermal radiation: numerical investigation using the modified Adomian decomposition method associated with Mohand transforms
Authors: Adel M , Khader M M , Abbas W
Published: November 2024

The flow of nanofluids over a stretched sheet situated within a porous medium is the main subject of this work. The Reiner-Philippoff model, which includes a magnetic field, chemical reaction, thermal radiation, viscous dissipation, and variable thermal conductivity, is examined. The study investigates how these complex processes affect the system’s heat transfer characteristics and flow dynamics. A system of partial differential equations describes the physical model. We arrive at a system of ordinary differential equations that, due to its highly nonlinear nature, requires numerical treatment by employing the proper similarity transformations. The governing equations are solved numerically, namely by combining the Mohand transform and the Adomian decomposition method. For computer-based solutions, complicated equations are simplified using the sophisticated Modified Decomposition Method (MDM). To guarantee convergence, it combines the Mohand transform with Adomian decomposition methods, yielding a series solution that almost matches the precise solution to the issue.
ICGM-YOLO: UAV remote sensing small target detection algorithm based on feature fusion enhancement module and ghost convolution
Authors: Zhang Hongbin , Yang Jingmin , Zhang Wenjie , Ren Jinghui
Published: November 2024

Remote sensing images captured at high altitudes are affected by background noise and low resolution, leading to suboptimal performance of commonly used small object detection algorithms. This paper introduces ICGM-YOLO, an enhanced approach designed to improve the precision of detecting small objects within remote sensing images. The methodology refines YOLOv8 for optimal performance in this context. First, within the feature extraction network, iterative attention feature fusion combines feature maps and integrates features from different layers. Second, the convolutional layer and C2f module are replaced with the GhostConv module and C3Ghost to extract features. Finally, this paper replaces CIoU with the MFIoU loss function, which combines the new bounding box MPDIoU based on minimum point distance with Focaler-IoU. This replacement accelerates model convergence and enhances detection recall. Experimental results from the Visdrone2019 dataset indicate that ICGM-YOLO outperforms the original YOLOv8 by achieving an 8.1% improvement in mAP0.5 detection rate and a 5.3% increase in mAP0.5:0.95 detection rate. Additionally, ICGM-YOLO reduces the parameter count by 48.2% and decreases computational complexity by 45.2%.
High speed and low power hybrid adder using 22 nm SG-TG FinFET
Authors: Arora Sneha , Tripathi Suman Lata , Raj Balwinder
Published: November 2024

This paper demonstrates a new 22-T (transistor) hybrid adder for low-power applications using 22 nm shorted gate (SG) tri-gate (TG) FinFET technology. Large conducting channels and increased gate control make FinFET suitable for high-speed low-power computing circuits. The proposed hybrid adder is designed using pass transistor and CMOS logic. Also, it adopts the state-of-the-art techniques of dynamic leakage balancing on the ground path and stacking ground transistors that reduce parasitic effects and increase the speed of the logic transitions compared to traditional designs. Extensive simulations were executed to characterize for PDP (Power Delay Product), power dissipation, and delay of the hybrid adder circuit. From the Monte Carlo analysis, the robustness and efficiency of the circuit are also observable for minimum variation in power and delay due to process voltage and temperature (PVT) variations. Besides, concerning the supply variability and temperature, the circuit shows excellent stability by keeping the power consumption and delay performance consistent. The proposed 22-T hybrid adder using 22 nm SG-TG FinFET are very well-suited in low power and high-speed processors showing highly stable behaviour with reduced process variability.
Magnetically-assembled multifunctional Fe3O4@SiO2@Au particles for SERS detection of low-concentration dye molecules
Authors: Amonkar Shilpa R , Cherukulappurath Sudhir
Published: November 2024

Surface-enhanced Raman scattering (SERS) is a sensitive spectroscopic method to detect low concentration-low volume analytes. Owing to this, there has been a rising interest in developing improved as well as novel nanostructured substrates for SERS applications. For SERS applications, it is desirable to have large-scale assemblies of such nanostructures that can sustain multiple electromagnetic ‘hotspots’ for improved sensitivity. In this work, we use magnetic-field aided large-scale assembly of multifunctional magnetic-plasmonic particles to generate a large area SERS substrate. The particles, composed of a Fe3O4 core with a thin silica coating followed by Au nanoparticles (Fe3O4@SiO2@Au), were synthesized by simple chemical methods. The multifunctional particles were characterized using powder x-ray diffraction, transmission electron microscopy, Raman spectroscopy, and SQUID magnetometer. Magnetic assembly of the composite particles, carried out using a bi-electromagnet setup, was used for SERS detection of organic dyes such as rhodamine B and methylene blue. Using this scheme, it was possible to detect ultra-low concentrations (up to 1fM) of the dye molecules. This method is promising for applications such as chemical sensors, biomolecular detection, cancer detection, and hyperthermia treatment, forensic investigations, and drug delivery.
Quantum information for graphene wormholes
Authors: Moreira Allan R P , Bouzenada Abdelmalek , Ahmed Faizuddin
Published: November 2024

This paper explores the interplay between quantum information theory and the stabilization of graphene wormholes using external magnetic fields. Utilizing Shannon entropy, we analyze how quantum information can be applied to control and stabilize these structures. By studying graphene’s quantum states under different magnetic field strengths and configurations, we gain insights into the entanglement and coherence properties governing their behavior. The findings demonstrate the potential of quantum information metrics to enhance the stability and control of graphene wormholes, with implications for quantum computing and material science innovations.
Discovery of Six Low-z, High-luminosity, and High-mass Quasars
Authors: Hökelek Seyit , Kaçan Enes Selam , Filiz Ak Nurten
Published: November 2024

This study presents the discovery of six low-redshift quasars, identified through spectral observations conducted with the RTT-150 telescope. These quasars, with redshifts ranging from 0.3 to 0.6, were selected incorporating their placement in the color–color diagrams and detection by ROSAT 2RXS, focusing on those resembling the spectral energy distribution of a quasar. Our analysis includes detailed modeling of their continuum and emission line properties, which allowed us to estimate their bolometric luminosities, central black hole masses, and Eddington ratios. The findings reveal that these quasars exhibit exceptionally high luminosities and high masses for their redshift values, making them rare examples in the low-redshift quasar population. The results contribute to our understanding of quasar characteristics and their role in probing the structure and evolution of the nearby universe. This research underscores the importance of continued exploration of low-redshift quasars to enhance our knowledge of cosmic evolution and the dynamics of supermassive black holes in the early universe.
Enhancing some separability criteria via equiangular tight frames
Authors: Tang Liang , Wu Fan
Published: November 2024

Improvement of the detection ability of quantum entanglement is one of the essential tasks in quantum computing and quantum information. Finite tight frames play a fundamental role in a wide variety of areas and, generally, each application requires a specific class of frames and is closely related to quantum measurement. It is worth noting that a maximal set of complex equiangular vectors is closely related to a symmetric informationally complete measurement. Hence, our goal in this work is to propose a series of separability criteria assigned to a finite tight frame and some well-known inequalities in different quantum systems, respectively. In addition, some tighter criteria to detect entanglement for many-body quantum states are presented in arbitrary dimensions. Finally, the effectiveness of the proposed entanglement detection criteria is illustrated through some detailed examples.
Influence of hydrogen content in tokamak scrape-off-layer on performance of lithium divertor
Authors: Marenkov E.D. , Pshenov A.A.
Published: November 2024

Self-replenishing liquid metal coatings are considered as a perspective divertor design able to withstand challenging particle and power loads of a fusion tokamak-reactor. Numerical modeling of the scrape-of-layer (SOL) plasma with advanced 2D codes, such as SOLPS, is necessary for developing of the ‘liquid-metal’ divertor. In this work we report on upgraded version of SOLPS 4.3 code liquid metal erosion module implemented earlier in our group and present results of simulations of T-15MD tokamak with Li-covered divertor plates. The erosion model includes all main processes Li erosion, i.e. physical sputtering, thermal sputtering, evaporation, and prompt redeposition. Unlike some other available implementations, Li atoms are considered in kinetic approximation in our version. A detailed analysis of Li erosion and flow in T-15MD configuration for various powers (6–12 MW) and H content in the SOL is presented. It is shown that the most of eroded Li particles are redeposited on the divertor targets, however, in some regimes absolute Li flow from the divertor is still large and might lead to significant main plasma dilution with Li. Vapor shielding effect is pronounced on both divertor targets in the most reasonable regimes providing low peak heat flux values at the target plates, less than 10 MW m−2. The target erosion rate and surface temperatures are within limits of the most target designs. Moreover, in strongly shielded cases the target temperature can be even lower than the Li melting temperature meaning that external heating is required to keep Li flowing. Sensitivity analysis shows that our results are most sensitive to the target heat conduction parameters, i.e. the target thickness, outer surface temperature. It means that controlling the target cooling rate can be a useful tool for controlling the liquid Li divertor regime. Variation of the Li erosion rate parameters has little effect on the divertor performance.
Machine learning for reducing noise in RF control signals at industrial accelerators
Authors: Henderson M. , Edelen J.P. , Einstein-Curtis J. , Hall C.C. , Diaz Cruz J.A. , Edelen A.L.
Published: November 2024

Industrial particle accelerators typically operate in
dirtier environments than research accelerators, leading to
increased noise in RF and electronic systems. Furthermore, given
that industrial accelerators are mass produced, less attention is
given to optimizing the performance of individual systems. As a
result, industrial accelerators tend to underperform their own
hardware capabilities. Improving signal processing for these
machines will improve cost and time margins for deployment, helping
to meet the growing demand for accelerators for medical
sterilization, food irradiation, cancer treatment, and imaging. Our
work focuses on using machine learning techniques to reduce noise in
RF signals used for pulse-to-pulse feedback in industrial
accelerators. Here we review our algorithms and observed results for
simulated RF systems, and discuss next steps with the ultimate goal
of deployment on industrial systems.
Inadequacy of agricultural best management practices under warmer climates
Authors: Zammali Mohamed Khalil , Nazemi Ali , Hassanzadeh Elmira , Lindenschmidt Karl-Erich
Published: November 2024

Agricultural best management practices (BMPs) are often implemented to reduce nutrient transport from farmland to downstream waterbodies. However, under the scenario of a changing climate, nutrient transport processes may be altered and BMPs may not be as effective. Using an ensemble of downscaled climate projections under moderate and high radiative forcings, we perform a hybrid climate assessment of BMPs in a large, flat, and primarily agricultural watershed in the Canadian Prairies. We quantify the total nitrogen delivery under current and future climate scenarios, with and without BMPs. Our findings reveal that BMP combinations, which are currently sufficient under historical climate conditions, may become inadequate to handle increased nitrogen under future climate conditions. We examine the enhancement of BMPs, conditioned to mean ensemble projections. Although updated combinations of BMPs show improvements in both the magnitude and cost of nitrogen removal compared to historical practices, their efficiency systematically declines as temperature rises. The decline rate of BMP efficiency is significantly larger under the high radiative forcing. Even by implementing all considered BMPs, we show that, at least under some realizations of future climate, the historical status-quo nitrogen state, in which no BMP is implemented, cannot be maintained. Our study demonstrates the reduced effectiveness of BMPs as the climate warms. To combat this, we recommend the immediate implementation of updated BMPs to slow down the build up of nitrogen. However, in innovations in physical, chemical, and biological remediation technologies would be needed in long term to control nitrogen loads coming from farmlands.
A weather pattern responsible for increasing wildfires in the western United States
Authors: Zhang Wei , Wang Simon S-Y , Chikamoto Yoshimitsu , Gillies Robert , LaPlante Matthew , Hari Vittal
Published: November 2024

The western United States (U.S.) has been experiencing more severe wildfires, in part due to climate change, but the underlying synoptic patterns and their modulation in driving fire weather is unclear. Here we investigated the relationship between weather regimes (WRs) and fire weather indices, specifically vapor pressure deficit (VPD) and the Canadian Forest Fire Weather Index. By identifying five singular WRs using k-means clustering, we found that a particular regime (WR-2), one characterized by a distinct tripolar wave train pattern over the continental U.S., has exhibited an increased frequency since 1980. The ascribed WR-2 regime was found to be mainly responsible for rising trends in the fire weather indices, especially VPD. Further, the average fire indices of the WR-2 regime played a more important role than the frequency in shaping the rising trends in the fire weather indices. The increased frequency of the WR-2 WR was mainly attributed to anthropogenic forcing and, the year-to-year variation of the frequency was associated with sea surface temperature anomalies over the subtropical eastern Pacific. Human-induced climate change might have furthered the exacerbation of wildfire danger in the western U.S. by modulating the behaviors of WRs and fire weather indices.
Cadmium: a global assessment of mineral resources, extraction, and indicators of mine toxicity potential
Authors: Werner Tim T , Bell Christian , Frenzel Max , Jowitt Simon M , Agarwal Priya , Mudd Gavin M
Published: November 2024

Mostly produced as a by-product of zinc (Zn) mining, cadmium (Cd) is used in solar photovoltaic cells, battery storage, alloys, pigments, plating, and in nuclear reactors. However, it is also a regulated toxic substance with a long history of environmental and health impacts. As the mining of both Zn and Cd will need to increase to support the global energy transition, the status of Cd as either a resource or a pollutant has major implications for global supply chains and environmental management. Here, we present a new global, site-specific database and analysis of Cd resources in Zn-bearing mineral deposits and mines. Our database, which exceeds past Cd studies in scope, transparency and replicability is made available in full to support future assessments of Cd and Zn resources, mine production and associated risks. It includes 927 sites subject to detailed geological data compilation and analysis. Collectively, these sites suggest a new global resource estimate of 3.3 Mt Cd (95% confidence interval: 2.7–6.1 Mt).

A preliminary geospatial analysis of sites in our database and mine toxicity indicators was also conducted. It shows that:

-

A human population of approximately 3.27 million live within 10 km of sites containing Cd resources,

-

∼31% of the world’s Cd resources sit within 20 km of International Union for the Conservation of Nature protected areas, and

-

Some 28% of Cd mobilised annually by mining originates from areas hosting seasonal or permanent surface water cover.

As ∼27% of Cd resources are in countries that do not refine it, our study highlights the need for further research exploring global Cd trade flows and associated emissions. Heavy metal pollution in mining and metal production regions is an ongoing challenge, and our global dataset refines our understanding of its magnitude and distribution.
Dihedrally symmetric monopoles and affine Toda equations
Authors: Braden H W , Disney-Hogg Linden
Published: November 2024

We show that any SU(2) BPS monopole of charge k with rotational spatial dihedral symmetry is gauge equivalent to the Nahm data obtained from affine Toda equations of

C
l

(
1
)

type when

k

=
2
l

or

A

2
(
l
−
1
)

(
2
)

type when

k

=
2
l
−
1

.
Entanglement dynamics of two optical modes coupled through a dissipative movable mirror in an optomechanical system
Authors: Schnepper Bruno P , Cius Danilo , Andrade Fabiano M
Published: November 2024

Nonclassical states are an important class of states in quantum mechanics, particularly for applications in quantum information theory. Optomechanical systems are invaluable platforms for exploring and harnessing these states. In this study, we focus on a mirror-in-the-middle optomechanical system. In the absence of losses, a separable state, composed of the product of coherent states, evolves into an entangled state. Furthermore, we demonstrate that generating a two-mode Schrödinger-cat state depends on the optomechanical coupling. Additionally, when the optical modes are uncoupled from the mechanical mode, we find no entanglement for certain nonzero optomechanical coupling intensities. We exactly solve the Gorini–Kossalokowinki–Sudarshan–Lindblad master equation, highlighting the direct influence of the reservoir on the dynamics when mechanical losses are considered. Then, we discuss vacuum one-photon superposition states to obtain exact entanglement dynamics using concurrence as a quantifier. Our results show that mechanical losses in the mirror attenuate the overall entanglement of the system.
Introduction
Authors: Lafont Cristina , Urbinati Nadia
Published: November 2024

In the introduction, we offer an overview of current proposals to use lottery-based institutions in democratic societies. While these proposals aim to improve the democratic quality of current institutions, we argue that the lottocratic mentality guiding most of the design of lottery-based institutions harbors antidemocratic features that would erode democratic commitments in society more generally. Thus, the negative downstream effects of the spread of this mentality extend well beyond the narrow confines of discussions about the future of such institutions. We then indicate how each chapter contributes to the book’s overall argument against the lottocratic mentality.
The Lottery Revival
Authors: Lafont Cristina , Urbinati Nadia
Published: November 2024

This chapter discusses one of lottocrats’ most popular and reiterated claims, namely, that ancient democracy proves that only selection by lottery is consistent with democratic equality. We introduce this chapter by first going back to the ideas of three key seminal political theorists, Robert A. Dahl, Jon Elster, and Bernard Manin, who drew attention to the lottery well before it became popular. None of them were lottocrats, yet they suggested a parallel between contemporary and ancient democracies that opened the door to a narrative that has now become popular among lottocrats. In the second part of the chapter, we show that the antagonism between lotteries and elections is confusing as the ancients did not use the lottery instead of elections but used both of them in different contexts. In the end, making the lottery synonymous with democracy alters the meaning of democracy itself from a regime based on the centrality of adult citizen participation in self-government to one in which the many are “ruled” by “the few” chosen by chance.
A Sample Embodying Everyone
Authors: Lafont Cristina , Urbinati Nadia
Published: November 2024

In this chapter, we analyze the conception of representation as “mirror” and “embodiment,” which is a core feature of the lottocratic mentality. Current dissatisfaction with electoral democracy has reactivated two different modalities of “embodied” representation: populism and lottocracy. After analyzing some differences between them, we highlight their common features that are inimical to democracy: exclusionary majoritarianism and the assumption of a homogeneous citizenry. Under the worrisome assumption of a homogeneous people, lottocrats want to take us back to embodiment and ascriptive groups. Instead of citizens choosing their representatives based on their political agendas, they should let themselves be represented by a random sample of individuals who are supposed to share their interests and political values just by virtue of their ascriptive characteristics (such as gender, ethnicity, etc.). As explained in detail, by questioning the priority of political representation over descriptive representation, lottocrats undermine citizens’ political agency and freedom.
Conclusion
Authors: Lafont Cristina , Urbinati Nadia
Published: November 2024

In the conclusion, we highlight the importance of auxiliary institutions within representative democracies. Unlike in ancient democracies, in representative democracies kratos has become complex and mediated such that opinion formation and decision-making institutions are part of it. Within our democracies, political parties, interest groups, civic associations, traditional and digital media, schools and universities, labor unions, and mutual associations of various kinds count as auxiliary bodies. Minipublics such as citizens’ assemblies or citizens’ juries present a new type of auxiliary institutions that could have a positive impact on representative democracy. But if, as lottocrats propose, we were to use lotteries to create laws or choose lawmakers who have a final say over decisions that authorize coercion, then lotteries would function to empowering the unaccountable few to rule over the many. This would only reinforce the undemocratic flaws of current electoral institutions that lottocrats denounce—namely, the dualism between the few who rule and the many who submit to their decisions.
Transdiagnostic Attentional Deficits Are Associated with Depressive and Externalizing Symptoms in Children and Adolescents with Neuropsychiatric Disorders
Authors: DePamphilis Gian M , Legere Christopher , Vigne Megan M , Tirrell Eric , Holler Karen , Carpenter Linda L , Kavanaugh Brian C
Published: November 2024

Objective

Although inattention, impulsivity, and impairments to vigilance are most associated with attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD), transdiagnostic attentional deficits are prevalent across all psychiatric disorders. To further elucidate this relationship, the present study investigated parent-reported neuropsychiatric symptom correlates of attention deficits using the factor structure of the Conners’ Continuous Performance Test (CPT-II), a neuropsychological test of attention.

Method

Two-hundred and eighteen children and adolescents (7–21 years old) completed the CPT-II as part of standard clinical protocol during outpatient pediatric neuropsychology visits. The factor structure of the CPT-II was determined with a principal component analysis (PCA) using Promax rotation. Pearson correlation analyses and regression models examined the relationship between the generated factor structure, parent-reported clinical symptoms, and pre-determined clinical diagnoses.

Results

Results from the PCA suggested a three-factor model best supported the structure of the CPT-II, and were subsequently defined as inattention, impulsivity, and vigilance. Performance-based inattention was significantly correlated with parent-reported hyperactivity, aggression, conduct problems, and depression. Parent-reported depressive symptoms and conduct problems were the strongest correlates of performance-based inattention, not hyperactivity or aggression. Performance-based inattention was significantly associated with an ADHD diagnosis but not a depression or anxiety diagnosis.

Conclusions

Findings suggest attentional deficits are not specific to any one disorder. To enhance the identification, classification, and treatment of neuropsychiatric disorders, both researchers and clinicians alike must diminish the importance of categorical approaches to child/adolescent psychopathology and continue to consider the dimensionality of transdiagnostic characteristics such as inattention.
Microfocused Ultrasound With Visualization (MFU-V) Effectiveness and Safety: A Systematic Review and Meta-Analysis
Authors: Amiri Mojgan , Ajasllari Guardmond , Llane Adea , Casabona Gabriela , Pavicic Tatjana , Sevi Julia , Spada Julieta , Vachiramon Vasanop , Vasconcelos Rossana , Tuck Wah Siew , Muka Taulant , Fabi Sabrina Guillen
Published: November 2024

Microfocused ultrasound with visualization (MFU-V) is an advanced, noninvasive cosmetic procedure widely performed for skin lifting and tightening. We performed a systematic review and meta-analysis to evaluate the aesthetic effectiveness, patient satisfaction, skin quality, and safety profile of MFU-V treatment. A comprehensive search of 5 bibliographic databases up to 2023 was conducted. Pooled effect estimates with random effects models and corresponding 95% confidence intervals were calculated. Out of 4019 references, 42 studies were included. Meta-analysis showed 89% of patients (95% CI: 81%-94%; I2: 63%, n = 411) demonstrated some degree of global aesthetic improvement, as assessed by investigators. Similarly, 84% of patients (95% CI: 73%-91%; I2: 64%, n = 312) reported improvement following treatment. Satisfaction of any level was reported by 84% of patients (95% CI: 61%-94%; I²: 52%, n = 326), and 62% (95% CI: 37%-82%; I²: 3%, n = 172) when “neutral” as a response option was provided for patients. Skin quality (eg, wrinkles, texture) also improved. Patients reported a pooled mean pain score of 4.85 (95% CI: 4.35, 5.35; I2: 97%, n = 785), indicating moderate pain. Common adverse events included erythema, edema, swelling, bruising, and tenderness, all of which were generally mild to moderate in severity. Overall, our analysis demonstrated a notable increase in global aesthetic improvement and patient satisfaction following MFU-V treatment, accompanied by moderate pain and a generally favorable safety profile. However, the potential misclassification of neutral responses as positive may result in an overestimation of the treatment's efficacy. These findings highlight the need for well-designed trials to further explore MFU-V's clinical applications.

Level of Evidence: 3 (Therapeutic)
Deciphering gene expression patterns using large-scale transcriptomic data and its applications
Authors: Chen Shunjie , Wang Pei , Guo Haiping , Zhang Yujie
Published: November 2024

Gene expression varies stochastically across genders, racial groups, and health statuses. Deciphering these patterns is crucial for identifying informative genes, classifying samples, and understanding diseases like cancer. This study analyzes 11,252 bulk RNA-seq samples to explore expression patterns of 19,156 genes, including 10,512 cancer tissue samples and 740 normal samples. Additionally, 4,884 single-cell RNA-seq samples are examined. Statistical analysis using 16 probability distributions shows that normal samples display a wider range of distributions compared to cancer samples. Cancer samples tend to favor asymmetric distributions such as generalized extreme value, logarithmic normal, and Gaussian mixture distributions. In contrast, certain genes in normal samples exhibit symmetric distributions. Remarkably, more than 95.5% of genes exhibit non-normal distributions, which challenges traditional assumptions. Furthermore, distributions differ significantly between bulk and single-cell RNA-seq data. Many cancer driver genes exhibit distinct distribution patterns across sample types, suggesting potential for gene selection and classification based on distribution characteristics. A novel skewness-based metric is proposed to quantify distribution variation across datasets, showing genes with significant skewness differences have biological relevance. Finally, an improved naïve Bayes method incorporating gene-specific distributions demonstrates superior performance in simulations over traditional methods. This work enhances understanding of gene expression and its application in omics-based gene selection and sample classification.
DynaCT biliary reconstruction via a 3D C-arm cholangiography system: clinical application in hepatolithiasis
Authors: Cao Ya-Wen , Chen Dong-qiao , Lin Jie-Long , Ding Zhao-Wei , Li Pei-Heng , Li Rong-Qi , Ye Yong-Qing
Published: November 2024

Objective

Dyna computed tomography (DynaCT) is an innovative clinical imaging tool used to obtain three-dimensional (3D) images of biliary structures via the Artis Zee DSA system (SIEMENS Company, Germany). DynaCT is a type of 3D cone beam computed tomography (CBCT) reconstruction produced from a two-dimensional (2D) cholangiography system by rotating the C-arm without moving the patient. The aim of this study was to evaluate the technical approach and application value of DynaCT to diagnosis hepatolithiasis and biliary stenosis.

Methods

This was a retrospective single-centre series of 37 hepatolithiasis patients with tubes receiving one-step percutaneous transhepatic cholangioscopic lithotripsy (one-step PTCSL) between October 2021 and October 2022: twenty-one patients were guided by CT (CT group) and sixteen by DynaCT biliary reconstruction (DynaCT group). We compared DynaCT biliary reconstruction technology with computed tomography (CT) in the application of bile ducts.

Results

DynaCT biliary reconstruction was successfully performed in 37 patients. Biliary stenosis, including anatomy, morphology, and size, was visualized via DynaCT. Compared with the CT group, the DynaCT group was characterized by significantly more target biliary branches with stones (92 vs. 48, P < 0.05), a higher percentage of secondary stenosis (75.76% vs. 24.24%, p < 0.05), a greater percentage of biliary infection (37.5% vs. 9.5%, P = 0.041), a shorter overall stone clearance time (26.38 ± 13.49 vs. 52.67 ± 30.10, P = 0.001), and a lower rate of reoperation for residual stones (25.00% vs. 66.67%, P = 0.012). DynaCT had a lower contrast agent (25.61 ± 5.13 vs. 42.69 ± 11.15, p < 0.05). However, DynaCT increased radiation exposure (38.12 ± 10.59 vs. 25.79 ± 4.76, p < 0.05). There were no significant differences between the two groups regarding the clearance ratio of the calculus or several postoperative complications.

Conclusion

DynaCT for biliary reconstruction has the potential to be a powerful evaluation tool for one-step PTCSL surgery and could lead to new possibilities for hepatobiliary surgery.

Advances in knowledge

DynaCT was used for the first time in patients with hepatolithiasis and biliary stenosis. Compared with CT, DynaCT for biliary reconstruction results in higher-quality 3D biliary, blood vessel and liver images. On the basis of the DynaCT biliary model, one-step PTCSL has the potential to improve the stone clearance ratio and shorten the stone clearance time and reoperation ratio.
Reduced brain oxygen response to spreading depolarization predicts worse outcome in ischaemic stroke
Authors: Hecht Nils , Haddad Daisy , Neumann Konrad , Schumm Leonie , Dengler Nora F , Wessels Lars , Dömer Patrick , Helgers Simeon , Meinert Franziska , Major Sebastian , Lemale Coline L , Dreier Jens P , Vajkoczy Peter , Woitzik Johannes
Published: November 2024

Spreading depolarization (SD) describes a propagating neuronal mass depolarization within the cerebral cortex that represents a mediator of infarct development and strongly stimulates the metabolic rate of O2 consumption. Here, we investigated the influence of Spreading Depolarization (SD) on brain tissue partial pressure of O2 (ptiO2) within the peri-infarct tissue of patients suffering malignant hemispheric stroke (MHS).

This prospective observational trial included 25 patients with MHS that underwent decompressive hemicraniectomy followed by subdural placement of electrodes for electrocorticography (ECoG) and neighboring implantation of a ptiO2 probe within the peri-infarcted cortex. Continuous side-by-side ECoG + ptiO2 recordings were obtained for 3-6 days postoperatively and analyzed for the occurrence of SD-independent and SD-coupled ptiO2 changes, radiological findings, as well as their association with clinical outcome at 6 months.

During the combined ECoG + ptiO2 monitoring period of 2,604 hours and among 1,022 SDs, 483 (47%) SD-coupled ptiO2 variations were identified as biphasic (59%), hypoxic (36%) or hyperoxic (5%) ptiO2 responses that differed significantly (*p<0.0001). Among the remaining 538/1,022 (53%) SDs, no SD-coupled ptiO2 response was detected, which we categorized as ‘No response’. The overall infarct progression was 1.7% (IQR -2.5–10.9). Spreading Depolarization characteristics regarding type, duration and frequency, as well as SD-independent baseline ptiO2 had no association with outcome. In contrast, a high occurrence rate and amplitude of SD-coupled variations in ptiO2 were associated with improved outcome at 6 months (occurrence: r=-0.62, *p=0.035; amplitude: r=-0.57, *p=0.024; Spearman correlation).

In conclusion, an absent or reduced ptiO2 response to SD could indicate tissue-at-risk and help direct targeted treatment strategies in ischemic stroke, which is further evidence that not all SDs are the same, but that tissue responses coupled to SD such as ptiO2 contain prognostic information. In particular, a lack of SD-coupled ptiO2 variations appears to be a predictor of worse outcome in large hemispheric stroke.
Local and interareal alpha and low-beta band oscillation dynamics underlie the bilateral field advantage in visual working memory
Authors: Sattelberger Judith , Haque Hamed , Juvonen Joonas J , Siebenhühner Felix , Palva Jaakko Matias , Palva Satu
Published: November 2024

Visual working memory has a limited maximum capacity, which can be larger if stimuli are presented bilaterally vs. unilaterally. However, the neuronal mechanisms underlying this bilateral field advantage are not known. Visual working memory capacity is predicted by oscillatory delay-period activity, specifically, by a decrease in alpha (8 to 12 Hz) band amplitudes in posterior brain regions reflecting attentional deployment and related shifts in excitation, as well as a concurrent increase of prefrontal oscillation amplitudes and interareal synchronization in multiple frequencies reflecting active maintenance of information. Here, we asked whether posterior alpha suppression or prefrontal oscillation enhancement explains the bilateral field advantage. We recorded brain activity with high-density electroencephalography, while subjects (n = 26, 14 males) performed a visual working memory task with uni- and bilateral visual stimuli. The bilateral field advantage was associated with early suppression of low-alpha (6 to 10 Hz) and alpha–beta (10 to 17 Hz) band amplitudes, and a subsequent alpha–beta amplitude increase, which, along with a concurrent load-dependent interareal synchronization in the high-alpha band (10 to 15 Hz), correlated with hit rates and reaction times and thus predicted higher maximum capacities in bilateral than unilateral visual working memory. These results demonstrate that the electrophysiological basis of the bilateral field advantage in visual working memory is both in the changes in attentional deployment and enhanced interareal integration.