bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Energy-efficient design of quaternary logic gates and arithmetic circuits using hybrid CNTFET-RRAM technology
Authors: Haq Shams ul , Abbasian Erfan , Khurshid Tabassum , Sharma Vijay Kumar
Published: July 2024

Multi-valued logic (MVL) extends binary logic by providing a framework to represent complex systems with more than two truth values. MVL was introduced to confront the enormous interconnect issue associated with the binary logic in implementing the presnt day complex nanoelectronic architectures. This paper delves into the circuit design, computational aspects, and practical applications of the quaternary logic system, which is a type of MVL with four truth values. The multi-threshold property of carbon nanotube field-effect-transistors (CNTFETs), combined with the ability of resistive random-access memory (RRAM) to store multiple resistance values, has enabled the design of quaternary logic gates and arithmetic circuits. A new CNTFET-based design architecture has been proposed to implement the quaternary logic compatible with the existing technologies. Quaternary logic gates such as inverter, NAND, and NOR, and quaternary arithmetic circuits including decoder, half adder, and multiplier have been designed. The power-delay-product (PDP) of the proposed quaternary inverter, NAND, NOR, half adder, and multiplier is 62.38%, 93.4%, 80.29%, 14.79%, and 20% less than the least PDP of the quaternary designs under consideration. The static power reduction due to the effecciency of the design architecture and high OFF state resistance offered by integrating RRAM into the logic design was explored.The proposed circuits have been subject to various types of parameter variations to validate thir proper functionality in presence of these variations.
Modified gravity: gravitationally coupled bodies displace the center of mass of each other
Authors: Mutuku Kieti
Published: July 2024

Empirical observations have revealed that Newtonian dynamics do not correspond with the amount of visible matter in galactic scales. This imply that there is a vast amount of unseen matter or failure of the theory of gravity in galactic scales or something else. This paper demonstrates that gravitationally coupled bodies offset the center of mass of each other from either very center. Gravitational interaction among particles composing gravitationally coupled bodies lead to displacement of their (bodies) centers of mass towards each other. The magnitude of displacement of the center of mass of a body depends on its mass density, separation distance between the bodies, and mass of the body exerting the gravitational pull. This phenomenon reduces the separation distance between the bodies, thus increasing the net gravitational force between them (bodies).
HQC-MCDCNN: a novel hybrid quantum–classical multi-path denoising convolutional neural network
Authors: Fu Yanying , Che Xuanxuan , Nie Yuting , Dong Yumin
Published: July 2024

Image denoising is a longstanding and enduring visual problem, and with the continuous rise of quantum computing in the field of machine learning, its role in image processing has become increasingly important. This paper introduces for the first time the use of multiscale variational quantum circuits in the field of image denoising, aiming to enhance the performance of classical convolutional neural networks and explore the potential advantages of combining quantum and classical approaches. In this work, we propose a novel Hybrid Quantum-Classical Multi-Path Denoising Convolutional Neural Network, abbreviated as HQC-MCDCNN. The HQC-MCDCNN is composed of a hybrid of quantum and classical elements, with the quantum part using multiscale variational quantum circuits instead of classical convolutional layers for feature extraction, and the classical part employing a newly designed multi-path denoising convolutional neural network for supervised learning. Together, these components synergistically achieve image denoising. It is worth noting that this paper aims to build readers’ intuition for quantum computing, presenting all internal details of this work with rich images and visualizations. To demonstrate the denoising capability of HQC-MCDCNN, we conducted rigorous comparative experiments. Due to the constraints of Noisy Intermediate-Scale Quantum (NISQ) devices and the limited number of quantum bits, the experiments were based on the MNIST and Fashion-MNIST datasets with varying degrees of noise (noise factors ranging from 0.3 to 0.7), employing a 6-fold stratified sampling strategy for cross-validation. The experimental results indicate that HQC-MCDCNN is promising across all evaluation metrics, particularly outperforming other models by 56.5% in the average UIQ index. This suggests that our hybrid model exhibits outstanding feature extraction capabilities and excellent denoising performance, providing a promising path for addressing image denoising challenges.
Reconfigurable terahertz stretchable spoof surface plasmon polariton waveguide for filter applications
Authors: Shi Xiao Gang , Xue Zheng Hui , Xie Yi , Jiang Jian Wei , Zhang Wei , Le Zhang Qing
Published: July 2024

In this paper, a reconfigurable terahertz spoof surface plasmon polariton (SPP) waveguide is proposed on a stretchable polydimethylsiloxane (PDMS) substrate. The SPP unit incorporates a folded stub and a conventional V-shaped SPP groove, enhancing the equivalent capacitance and consequently reducing the cutoff frequency. The cutoff frequency of the proposed SPP unit can be tuned from 285 to 390 GHz with stretchable factors of 1 ∼ 1.2, thereby achieving a reconfigurable operating frequency. The horizontal dimension of the proposed SPP waveguide can be tuned from 6.36 mm to 7.12 mm. Moreover, the SPP waveguide can generate transmission continuous phase shifts of −30°, −60°, −90°, and −120° with stretchable factors of 1.05, 1.1, 1.15, and 1.2, respectively, in the 150–190 GHz band. Applying the characteristic mode theory, a split ring resonator (SRR) functions as the equivalent magnetic dipole, which remains unaffected by stretchable deformation. When loaded with four SRR cells, the proposed SPP waveguide generates a tunable passband with a fixed notched frequency at 193 GHz. Another stretchable SPP resonator serves as the equivalent electric dipole, operating from 284 GHz to 256 GHz in 1∼1.2 stretchable states. By loading three SPP resonators, the SPP waveguide can achieve a passband for the initial state, and a tunable stopband is introduced under 1.1 and 1.2 stretchable states. The proposed stretchable method provides a promising solution for planar terahertz components and systems with reconfigurable functions.
Investigating mechanical properties and energy absorption of elastomeric polymer nanocomposites containing cellulose nanofibers in tensile, quasi-static compression, and high strain rate tests
Authors: Ghiaskar Ahmad , Taghipoor Hossein
Published: July 2024

In this study, mechanical properties and energy absorption of elastomeric nanocomposites reinforced with cellulose nanofibers are investigated from tensile, Quasi-static Compression (QSC), and Split-Hopkinson Pressure Bar (SHPB) tests. For this purpose, the design and preparation of rubber nanocomposites with different loadings of cellulose nanofibers (CNFs) were carried out, and the optimal cure temperature (T90) of the rubber compound containing cellulose nanofibers was determined from the rheometer test. In the continuation of this study, the effects of adding cellulose nanofibers on the tensile strength, elongation to break, and energy absorption of the proposed Nano-composites were investigated. The results showed that the nanocomposite containing 6 phr increases the ultimate strength and elastic modulus of 300% by 33.5% and 22.7%, respectively, compared to the control rubber (0 phr). Similarly, these numbers are about 10 and 65% for loading 12 phr cellulose nanofibers. From the results of the quasi-static compression test for different amounts of cellulose nanofibers at a strain rate of 50%, it was found that the lowest and highest compressive stress due to the resistance of elastomeric nanocomposites is related to the control sample (0 phr) and the 12 phr sample, respectively. Also, from high strain rate tests of Split Hopkinson Pressure Bar, it was found that the fracture mechanism of flexible composites containing cellulose nanofibers changes in response to a high-speed impact, and the samples respond to high-pressure impact with brittle fractures. It was also found that rubber nanocomposites reinforced with cellulose nanofibers are very sensitive to strain rates. As the strain rate increases, the energy absorption of rubber nanocomposites increases. The optimal loading (6 phr) of cellulose nanofibers in rubber compounds makes them suitable for energy absorption applications. Cellulosic nanofibers provide acceptable dispersion of nanomaterials through good interaction with natural rubber and lignin-carbon fillers. Therefore, through the physical interweaving of fillers with polymer chains, CNF provide better binding of polymer chains to improve properties.
Response analysis of NMRG system considering Rb–Xe coupling
Authors: Zhang 张 Yi 燚 , Jiang 江 Qiyuan 奇渊 , Sun 孙 Bingfeng 兵锋 , Wei 魏 Jiahu 加湖 , Yang 杨 Lin 麟 , Li 李 Yongyuan 永远 , Wang 汪 Zhiguo 之国 , Yang 杨 Kaiyong 开勇 , Luo 罗 Hui 晖
Published: July 2024

The dynamic range of the nuclear magnetic resonance gyroscope can be effectively improved through the closed-loop control scheme, which is crucial to its application in inertial measurement. This paper presents the analytical transfer function of Xe closed-loop system in the nuclear magnetic resonance gyroscope considering Rb–Xe coupling effect. It not only considers the dynamic characteristics of the system more comprehensively, but also adds the influence of the practical filters in the gyro signal processing system, which can obtain the accurate response characteristics of signal frequency and amplitude at the same time. The numerical results are compared with an experimentally verified simulation program, which indicate great agreement. The research results of this paper are of great significance to the practical application and development of the nuclear magnetic resonance gyroscope.
An assessment of the ageing of the absolute spectral responsivity of trap detectors at krypton ion laser emission wavelengths
Authors: Dury Martin , Harris Subrena , Goodman Teresa , Servantes William , White Malcolm
Published: July 2024

We have assessed the absolute spectral responsivities of three-element trap detectors calibrated against the National Physical Laboratory primary standard cryogenic radiometer at eight krypton ion laser emission wavelengths over an approximate period of 20 years. As expected, we observed that the absolute spectral responsivities decrease with time. Additionally, we found that as the wavelength decreases, the ageing rate increases. At 356.4 nm, an average responsivity decrease of around −1800 ppm yr−1 is reported. While at longer wavelengths, the slowest rate of ageing, approximately −40 ppm yr−1, occurs at 799.3 nm. Interestingly, the year-on-year changes exhibit a relatively linear trend, allowing us to predict the future performance of the trap detectors. It is important to note, however, that predicted performance cannot be guaranteed and regular recalibration against a primary standard is essential, especially if low calibration uncertainties are required.
Calibrating the global network of gravitational wave observatories via laser power calibration at NIST and PTB
Authors: Bhattacharjee D , Savage R L , Bajpai R , Betzwieser J , Bossilkov V , Chen D , Grimaud C , Hido S , Karki S , Kück S , Lagabbe P , Lecher H , Lehman J , Llamas F , López M , Rolland L , Sanchez A , Spidell M , Stephens M
Published: July 2024

Current gravitational wave (GW) observatories rely on photon calibrators that use laser radiation pressure to generate displacement fiducials used to calibrate detector output signals. Reducing calibration uncertainty enables optimal extraction of astrophysical information such as source distance and sky position from detected signals. For the ongoing O4 observing run that started on 24 May 2023, the global GW detector network is employing a new calibration scheme with transfer standards calibrated at both the National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST) and the Physikalisch-Technische Bundesanstalt (PTB). These transfer standards will circulate between the observatories and the metrology institutes to provide laser power calibration traceable to the International System of Units (SI) and enable assessment and reduction of relative calibration errors for the observatory network. The Laser Interferometer Gravitational-Wave Observatory (LIGO) project and the Virgo project are currently participating in the new calibration scheme. The Large-scale Cryogenic Gravitational-wave Telescope project (KAGRA) is expected to join in 2024, with the LIGO Aundha Observatory in India joining later. Before implementing this new scheme, a NIST-PTB bilateral comparison was conducted. It validated the scale representation by both laboratories, with a degree of equivalence of −0.2% and an associated expanded uncertainty of 0.32% (k = 2) which is significantly lower than previous studies. We describe the transfer of power sensor calibration, including detailed uncertainty estimates, from the transfer standards calibrated by NIST and PTB to the sensors operating continuously at the interferometer end stations. Finally, we discuss the ongoing calibration of Pcal-induced displacement fiducials for the O4 observing run. Achieved combined standard uncertainty levels as low as 0.3% facilitate calibrating the interferometer output signals with sub-percent accuracy.
Neural activity shaping in visual prostheses with deep learning
Authors: Castro Domingos , Grayden David B , Meffin Hamish , Spencer Martin
Published: July 2024

Objective. The visual perception provided by retinal prostheses is limited by the overlapping current spread of adjacent electrodes. This reduces the spatial resolution attainable with unipolar stimulation. Conversely, simultaneous multipolar stimulation guided by the measured neural responses—neural activity shaping (NAS)—can attenuate excessive spread of excitation allowing for more precise control over the pattern of neural activation. However, defining effective multipolar stimulus patterns is a challenging task. Previous attempts focused on analytical solutions based on an assumed linear nonlinear model of retinal response; an analytical model inversion (AMI) approach. Here, we propose a model-free solution for NAS, using artificial neural networks (ANNs) that could be trained with data acquired from the implant. Approach. Our method consists of two ANNs trained sequentially. The measurement predictor network (MPN) is trained on data from the implant and is used to predict how the retina responds to multipolar stimulation. The stimulus generator network is trained on a large dataset of natural images and uses the trained MPN to determine efficient multipolar stimulus patterns by learning its inverse model. We validate our method in silico using a realistic model of retinal response to multipolar stimulation. Main results. We show that our ANN-based NAS approach produces sharper retinal activations than the conventional unipolar stimulation strategy. As a theoretical bench-mark of optimal NAS results, we implemented AMI stimulation by inverting the model used to simulate the retina. Our ANN strategy produced equivalent results to AMI, while not being restricted to any specific type of retina model and being three orders of magnitude more computationally efficient. Significance. Our novel protocol provides a method for efficient and personalized retinal stimulation, which may improve the visual experience and quality of life of retinal prosthesis users.
Detecting rhythmic spiking through the power spectra of point process model residuals
Authors: Cox Karin M , Kase Daisuke , Znati Taieb , Turner Robert S
Published: July 2024

Objective. Oscillations figure prominently as neurological disease hallmarks and neuromodulation targets. To detect oscillations in a neuron’s spiking, one might attempt to seek peaks in the spike train’s power spectral density (PSD) which exceed a flat baseline. Yet for a non-oscillating neuron, the PSD is not flat: The recovery period (‘RP’, the post-spike drop in spike probability, starting with the refractory period) introduces global spectral distortion. An established ‘shuffling’ procedure corrects for RP distortion by removing the spectral component explained by the inter-spike interval (ISI) distribution. However, this procedure sacrifices oscillation-related information present in the ISIs, and therefore in the PSD. We asked whether point process models (PPMs) might achieve more selective RP distortion removal, thereby enabling improved oscillation detection. Approach. In a novel ‘residuals’ method, we first estimate the RP duration (nr
) from the ISI distribution. We then fit the spike train with a PPM that predicts spike likelihood based on the time elapsed since the most recent of any spikes falling within the preceding nr
milliseconds. Finally, we compute the PSD of the model’s residuals. Main results. We compared the residuals and shuffling methods’ ability to enable accurate oscillation detection with flat baseline-assuming tests. Over synthetic data, the residuals method generally outperformed the shuffling method in classification of true- versus false-positive oscillatory power, principally due to enhanced sensitivity in sparse spike trains. In single-unit data from the internal globus pallidus (GPi) and ventrolateral anterior thalamus (VLa) of a parkinsonian monkey—in which alpha-beta oscillations (8–30 Hz) were anticipated—the residuals method reported the greatest incidence of significant alpha-beta power, with low firing rates predicting residuals-selective oscillation detection. Significance. These results encourage continued development of the residuals approach, to support more accurate oscillation detection. Improved identification of oscillations could promote improved disease models and therapeutic technologies.
Single-trial movement intention detection estimation in patients with Parkinson’s disease: a movement-related cortical potential study
Authors: Jochumsen Mads , Poulsen Kathrin Battefeld , Sørensen Sascha Lan , Sulkjær Cecilie Sørenbye , Corydon Frida Krogh , Strauss Laura Sølvberg , Roos Julie Billingsø
Published: July 2024

Objectives. Parkinson patients often suffer from motor impairments such as tremor and freezing of movement that can be difficult to treat. To unfreeze movement, it has been suggested to provide sensory stimuli. To avoid constant stimulation, episodes with freezing of movement needs to be detected which is a challenge. This can potentially be obtained using a brain–computer interface (BCI) based on movement-related cortical potentials (MRCPs) that are observed in association with the intention to move. The objective in this study was to detect MRCPs from single-trial EEG. Approach. Nine Parkinson patients executed 100 wrist movements and 100 ankle movements while continuous EEG and EMG were recorded. The experiment was repeated in two sessions on separate days. Using temporal, spectral and template matching features, a random forest (RF), linear discriminant analysis, and k-nearest neighbours (kNN) classifier were constructed in offline analysis to discriminate between epochs containing movement-related or idle brain activity to provide an estimation of the performance of a BCI. Three classification scenarios were tested: 1) within-session (using training and testing data from the same session and participant), between-session (using data from the same participant from session one for training and session two for testing), and across-participant (using data from all participants except one for training and testing on the remaining participant). Main results. The within-session classification scenario was associated with the highest classification accuracies which were in the range of 88%–89% with a similar performance across sessions. The performance dropped to 69%–75% and 70%–75% for the between-session and across-participant classification scenario, respectively. The highest classification accuracies were obtained for the RF and kNN classifiers. Significance. The results indicate that it is possible to detect movement intentions in individuals with Parkinson’s disease such that they can operate a BCI which may control the delivery of sensory stimuli to unfreeze movement.
Permutation conditional mutual information to quantify TMS-evoked cortical connectivity in disorders of consciousness
Authors: Zhao Zhibin , Wang Yong , Xia Xiaoyu , Li Xiaoli
Published: July 2024

Objective. To improve the understanding and diagnostic accuracy of disorders of consciousness (DOC) by quantifying transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS) evoked electroencephalography connectivity using permutation conditional mutual information (PCMI). Approach. PCMI can characterize the functional connectivity between different brain regions. This study employed PCMI to analyze TMS-evoked cortical connectivity (TEC) in 154 DOC patients and 16 normal controls, focusing on optimizing parameter selection for PCMI (Data length, Order length, Time delay). We compared short-range and long-range PCMI values across different consciousness states—unresponsive wakefulness syndrome (UWS), minimally conscious state (MCS), and normal (NOR)—and assessed various feature selection and classification techniques to distinguish these states. Main results. (1) PCMI can quantify TEC. We found optimal parameters to be Data length: 500 ms; Order: 3; Time delay: 6 ms. (2) TMS evoked potentials (TEPs) for NOR showed a rich response, while MCS patients showed only a few components, and UWS patients had almost no significant components. The values of PCMI connectivity metrics demonstrated its usefulness for measuring cortical connectivity evoked by TMS. From NOR to MCS to UWS, the number and strength of TEC decreased. Quantitative analysis revealed significant differences in the strength and number of TEC in the entire brain, local regions and inter-regions among different consciousness states. (3) A decision tree with feature selection by mutual information performed the best (balanced accuracy: 87.0% and accuracy: 83.5%). This model could accurately identify NOR (100.0%), but had lower identification accuracy for UWS (86.5%) and MCS (74.1%). Significance. The application of PCMI in measuring TMS-evoked connectivity provides a robust metric that enhances our ability to differentiate between various states of consciousness in DOC patients. This approach not only aids in clinical diagnosis but also contributes to the broader understanding of cortical connectivity and consciousness.
A supersymmetric quantum perspective on the explicit large deviations for reversible Markov jump processes, with applications to pure and random spin chains
Authors: Monthus Cécile
Published: July 2024

The large deviations at various levels that are explicit for Markov jump processes satisfying detailed balance are revisited in terms of the supersymmetric quantum Hamiltonian H that can be obtained from the Markov generator via a similarity transformation. We first focus on the large deviations at level 2 for the empirical density

p
^

(
C
)

of the configurations C seen during a trajectory over the large time window

[
0
,
T
]

, and rewrite the explicit Donsker–Varadhan rate function as the matrix element

I

[
2
]

[

p
^

(
.
)
]
=
⟨

p
^

|
H
|

p
^

⟩

involving the square-root ket

|

p
^

⟩

. (The analog formula is also discussed for reversible diffusion processes as a comparison.) We then consider the explicit rate functions at higher levels, in particular for the joint probability of the empirical density

p
^

(
C
)

and the empirical local activities

a
^

(
C
,

C

′

)

characterizing the density of jumps between two configurations

(
C
,

C

′

)

. Finally, the explicit rate function for the joint probability of the empirical density

p
^

(
C
)

and of the empirical total activity

A
^

that represents the total density of jumps of a long trajectory is written in terms of the two matrix elements

⟨

p
^

|
H
|

p
^

⟩

and

⟨

p
^

|

H
off

|

p
^

⟩

, where

H
off

represents the off-diagonal part of the supersymmetric Hamiltonian H. This general framework is then applied to pure or random spin chains with single-spin-flip or two-spin-flip transition rates, where the supersymmetric Hamiltonian H corresponds to quantum spin chains with local interactions involving Pauli matrices of two or three neighboring sites. It is then useful to introduce the quantum density matrix

ρ
^

=
|

p
^

⟩
⟨

p
^

|

associated with the empirical density

p
^

(
.
)

in order to rewrite the various rate functions in terms of reduced density matrices involving only two or three neighboring sites.
A tactile sensing system capable of recognizing objects based on bioinspired self-sensing soft pneumatic actuator
Authors: Yu Meng , Cheng Xiang , Peng Shigang , Zhao Liangyu , Wang Pengfei
Published: July 2024

Tactile sensors play an important role when robots perform contact tasks, such as physical information collection, force or displacement control to avoid collision. For these manipulations, excessive contact may cause damage while poor contact cause information loss between the robotic end-effector and the objects. Inspired by skin structure and signal transmission method, this paper proposes a tactile sensing system based on the self-sensing soft pneumatic actuator (S-SPA) capable of providing tactile sensing capability for robots. Based on the adjustable height and compliance characteristics of the S-SPA, the contact process is safe and more tactile information can be collected. And to demonstrate the feasibility and advantage of this system, a robotic hand with S-SPAs could recognize different textures and stiffness of the objects by touching and pinching behaviours to collect physical information of the various objects under the positive work states of the S-SPA. The result shows the recognition accuracy of the fifteen texture plates reaches 99.4

%

, and the recognition accuracy of the four stiffness cuboids reaches 100

%

by training a KNN model. This safe and simple tactile sensing system with high recognition accuracies based on S-SPA shows great potential in robotic manipulations and is beneficial to applications in domestic and industrial fields.
The effect of Skyrme–Chern–Simons dynamics on gauged Skyrmions in

2
+
1

dimensions
Authors: Navarro-Lérida Francisco , Radu Eugen , Tchrakian D H
Published: July 2024

We study the Skyrmion of the SO(2) gauged O(3) sigma model in

2
+
1

dimensions in the presence of a Skyrme–Chern–Simons (SCS) term, and compare its properties with the corresponding properties of the Skyrmion in the presence of the usual Chern–Simons (CS) term. We find that these properties are qualitatively largely similar in both cases, meaning that the SCS density can be employed as an alternative to the CS term also in higher dimensions, most importantly in even dimensions where no CS term is defined,

e
.
g
.
,

in

3
+
1

dimensions. The SCS density employed here is defined in terms of the pair of

S
O
(
2
)
×
S
O
(
2
)

gauge fields and an auxiliary O(5) Skyrme scalar, which is contracted to an effective O(3) Skyrme scalar. Technically, this study maps the methods to be applied in higher dimensional examples.
Free fermions in the repeated interactions scheme
Authors: Karevski Dragi
Published: July 2024

We discuss collision models made of fermions colliding repeatedly with an extended fermionic system whose hamiltonian is quadratic. After a review of the general theory of collision models, we derive a general Lyapunov dynamical equation that governs the covariance matrix of the fermionic extended system. We solve explicitly, in a wide range of physical parameters, several situations of interest such as the case of a boundary driven chain or the replication of entanglement leading to a rainbow like state.
Enhancing neovascularization post-myocardial infarction through injectable hydrogel functionalized with endothelial-derived EVs
Authors: Maiullari Fabio , Milan Marika , Chirivì Maila , Ceraolo Maria Grazia , Bousselmi Salma , Fratini Nicole , Galbiati Matteo , Fortunato Orazio , Costantini Marco , Brambilla Francesca , Mauri Pierluigi , Di Silvestre Dario , Calogero Antonella , Sciarra Tommaso , Rizzi Roberto , Bearzi Claudia
Published: July 2024

Over the past three decades, cell therapy development has fallen short of expectations, with many cellular sources demonstrating a ‘Janus effect’ and raising safety concerns. Extracellular vesicles (EVs), supported by advanced technologies, present a promising avenue in regenerative medicine, offering benefits such as immune tolerance and avoidance of negative aspects associated with cell transplants. Our previous research showcased enhanced and organized subcutaneous vascularization using three-dimensional bioprinted patches containing HUVEC-derived EVs in immunodeficient animal models. In this context, stress conditions on the cells of origin further boosted the EVs’ neoangiogenic potential. Since neovascularization is the first regenerative target requiring restoration, the present study aims to complement our previous work by employing an injectable gelatin methacrylate (GelMA) hydrogel functionalized with HUVEC-derived EVs in a pathological condition of acute myocardial infarction. This bioactive hydrogel resulted in reduced fibrosis, improved contractility, and promoted angiogenesis, showing promise in countering tissue deterioration and addressing vascular deficits. Moreover, the molecular characterization of EVs through miRNome and proteomic analyses further supports their potential as bio-additives for hydrogel functionalization. This cell-free approach mitigates immune rejection and oncogenic risks, offering innovative therapeutic advantages.
Tunable and strong circular dichroism mediated with graphene-Weyl semimetal planar scheme
Authors: Xu Sicheng , Yu Siyao , Qian Liming , Zheng Gaige
Published: July 2024

Strong circular dichroism (CD) has been observed in Weyl semimetals (WSMs) because of the extremely large gyrotropic optical response. However, traditional proposals cannot tune the wavelength of CD peaks continuously without changing the geometric parameters or external magnetic field, which limits the practical application. This study presents a lithography-free platform exhibits near-unity CD in a WSM-graphene-dielectric structure. It is theoretically shown that the proposal possesses different reflectance properties for right-hand circular polarization and left-hand circular polarization light in the mid-infrared range. The merits of the wide-angular chiral capacity of CP waves can also be maintained. The CD of the chiral structure can be tuned not only by adjusting the structural parameters, but also the chemical potential of graphene, which may also facilitate the design of more efficient chiral optical devices.
KLP-7/Kinesin-13 orchestrates axon-dendrite checkpoints for polarized trafficking in neurons
Authors: Dey Swagata , Kumar Nitish , Balakrishnan Supraja , Koushika Sandhya P. , Ghosh-Roy Anindya
Published: July 2024

The polarized nature of neurons depends on their microtubule dynamics and orientation determined by both microtubule-stabilizing and destabilizing factors. The role of destabilizing factors in developing and maintaining neuronal polarity is unclear. We investigated the function of KLP-7, a microtubule depolymerizing motor of the Kinesin-13 family, in axon-dendrite compartmentalization using PVD neurons in Caenorhabditis elegans. Loss of KLP-7 caused a mislocalization of axonal proteins, including RAB-3, SAD-1, and their motor UNC-104, to dendrites. This is rescued by cell-autonomous expression of the KLP-7 or colchicine treatment, indicating the involvement of KLP-7-dependent microtubule depolymerization. The high mobility of KLP-7 is correlated to increased microtubule dynamics in the dendrites, which restricts the enrichment of UNC-44, an integral component of Axon Initial Segment (AIS) in these processes. Due to the loss of KLP-7, ectopic enrichment of UNC-44 in the dendrite potentially redirects axonal traffic into dendrites that include plus-end out microtubules, axonal motors, and cargoes. These observations indicate that KLP-7-mediated depolymerization defines the microtubule dynamics conducive to the specific enrichment of AIS components in dendrites. This further compartmentalizes dendritic and axonal microtubules, motors, and cargoes, thereby influencing neuronal polarity.
The core spindle pole body scaffold Ppc89 links the pericentrin orthologue Pcp1 to the fission yeast spindle pole body via an evolutionarily conserved interface
Authors: Chen Jun-Song , Igarashi Maya G. , Ren Liping , Hanna Sarah M. , Turner Lesley A. , McDonald Nathan A. , Beckley Janel R. , Willet Alaina H. , Gould Kathleen L.
Published: July 2024

Centrosomes and spindle pole bodies (SPBs) are important for mitotic spindle formation and serve as cellular signaling platforms. Although centrosomes and SPBs differ in morphology, many mechanistic insights into centrosome function have been gleaned from SPB studies. In the fission yeast Schizosaccharomyces pombe, the α-helical protein Ppc89, identified based on its interaction with the septation initiation network scaffold Sid4, comprises the SPB core. High-resolution imaging has suggested that SPB proteins assemble on the Ppc89 core during SPB duplication, but such interactions are undefined. Here, we define a connection between Ppc89 and the essential pericentrin Pcp1. Specifically, we found that a predicted third helix within Ppc89 binds the Pcp1 pericentrin-AKAP450 centrosomal targeting (PACT) domain complexed with calmodulin. Ppc89 helix 3 contains similarity to present in the N-terminus of Cep57 (PINC) motifs found in the centrosomal proteins fly SAS-6 and human Cep57 and also to the S. cerevisiae SPB protein Spc42. These motifs bind pericentrin–calmodulin complexes and AlphaFold2 models suggest a homologous complex assembles in all four organisms. Mutational analysis of the S. pombe complex supports the importance of Ppc89-Pcp1 binding interface in vivo. Our studies provide insight into the core architecture of the S. pombe SPB and suggest an evolutionarily conserved mechanism of scaffolding pericentrin–calmodulin complexes for mitotic spindle formation.
Rhodes the Island, Rhodes the Polis: Religious Community and Synoecism
Authors: Zachhuber Juliane
Published: July 2024

This chapter explores the political shifts that the communities of Rhodes underwent in the synoecism of the late fifth century bc and how these established a new sense of regional and religious identity. It considers the evidence for pan-Rhodian identity and religion before this period, particularly the foundation myths, and explores their reception in the political climate of the fifth century bc. Next it lays out the sparse evidence for the Rhodian synoecism itself, and traces its impact on the religious calendar, the religious dimension of founding a new city and the introduction of new gods and cults, and finally the effect of social and political shifts on religious offices and organization.
Religious Personnel
Authors: Zachhuber Juliane
Published: July 2024

This chapter brings together the substantial evidence for Rhodian priests and considers the meaning and function of these various religious offices for individuals and their families, and conversely, what it was that they brought to the community and its gods. In doing so, it touches on a number of key themes of late Classical and Hellenistic religion and its intersection with society: economies of cult and their development to be dependent increasingly on private wealth and benefactions; the religious and social profiles of priests and their selection processes; the locus of religious authority or knowledge in a community; and the role of priests as mediators between gods and polis.
Caregivers’ Internet-Delivered Insomnia Intervention Engagement and Benefit: SHUTi-CARE Trial Primary Quantitative Analysis
Authors: Shaffer Kelly M , Ritterband Lee M , You Wen , Mattos Meghan K , Buysse Daniel J , Glazer Jillian V , Klinger Julie , Donovan Heidi
Published: July 2024

Background

Delivering insomnia treatment by the Internet holds promise for increasing care access to family caregivers, but their ability to adhere to and benefit from such fully-automated programs has not been rigorously tested.

Purpose

This fully-powered, single-group trial tested whether characteristics of the caregiving context influence high-intensity caregivers’ engagement with and benefit from an empirically validated Internet intervention for insomnia.

Methods

At baseline, caregivers providing unpaid time- and responsibility-intensive care who reported insomnia (N = 100; age M = 52.82 [SD = 13.10], 75% non-Hispanic white, 66% ≥college degree) completed questionnaires about caregiving context and sleep, then 10 prospectively-collected online daily sleep diaries. Caregivers then received access to SHUTi (Sleep Healthy Using the Internet), which has no caregiver-specific content, for 9 weeks, followed by post-assessment (questionnaires, diaries). Engagement was tracked by the SHUTi delivery system.

Results

Sixty caregivers completed SHUTi, 22 initiated but did not complete SHUTi, and 18 did not initiate SHUTi. Caregivers were more likely to use SHUTi (than not use SHUTi) when their care recipient (CR) had worse functioning, and were more likely to complete SHUTi when supporting more CR activities of daily living (ADL; ps < .03). Higher caregiver guilt, more CR problem behaviors, and being bedpartners with the CR related to more improved sleep outcomes, whereas supporting more CR instrumental ADL related to less improvement (ps < .05).

Conclusions

Factors associated with greater caregiving burden, including greater CR impairment and caregiving guilt, were generally associated with better engagement and outcomes. Caregivers with substantial burdens can adhere to and benefit from a fully automated insomnia program without caregiver-specific tailoring.
Tobacco Cessation Interventions in Non-Respiratory Cancers: A Systematic Review With Meta-analysis of Randomized Controlled Trials
Authors: Dhumal Trupti , Kelly Kimberly M , Khadka Safalta , Kelley George A , Kamal Khalid M , Scott Virginia G , Hogan Thomas F , Harper Felicity W K
Published: July 2024

Background

Considering the high rates of persistent tobacco use, effective cessation interventions are needed for cancer patients and caregivers. Despite the need, there is a significant lack of research on tobacco cessation, especially for non-respiratory cancers (breast, prostate, colorectal, cervical, and bladder cancer).

Purpose

The objective was to evaluate tobacco use and tobacco cessation interventions among patients and caregivers for non-respiratory cancers.

Methods

Randomized controlled trials assessing tobacco cessation interventions were identified. Five electronic databases were searched in accordance with the Preferred Reporting Items for Systematic reviews and Meta-analyses guidelines through July 2023. Studies exclusive to lung, oral, thoracic, and head and neck cancers were excluded. Effect sizes were estimated; risk of bias was assessed.

Results

Of 3,304 studies, 17 were included. Interventions included behavioral (n = 6), pharmacotherapy (n = 2), and a combination (n = 9) treatment. Eight studies included a health behavior model; mean behavioral change techniques were 5.57. Pooled magnitude of the odds of cessation was positive and significant (odds ratio = 1.24, 95% confidence interval [Lower Limit 1.02, Upper Limit 1.51]) relative to usual care/placebo. Cumulative meta-analysis examined the accumulation of results over-time and demonstrated that studies have been significant since 2020. Two studies included caregivers’ who were involved in the provision of social support.

Conclusions

Current interventions have the potential to reduce tobacco use in non-respiratory cancers. Results may be beneficial for promoting tobacco cessation among non-respiratory cancers. There is a considerable lack of dyadic interventions for cancer survivors and caregivers; researchers are encouraged to explore dyadic approaches.
Targeted Treatment Reverses Increased Left Cardiac Work in Unilateral vs. Bilateral Primary Aldosteronism
Authors: Kokko Eeva , Viukari Marianna , Koskela Jenni K , Choudhary Manoj Kumar , Matikainen Niina , Mustonen Jukka , Nevalainen Pasi I , Pörsti Ilkka
Published: July 2024

BACKGROUND

The incidence of cardiovascular complications may be higher in unilateral than bilateral primary aldosteronism (PA). We compared noninvasive hemodynamics after targeted therapy of bilateral vs. unilateral PA.

METHODS

Adrenal vein sampling was performed, and hemodynamics recorded using radial artery pulse wave analysis and whole-body impedance cardiography (n = 114). In 40 patients (adrenalectomy n = 20, spironolactone-based treatment n = 20), hemodynamic recordings were performed after 33 months of PA treatment.

RESULTS

In initial cross-sectional analysis, 51 patients had bilateral and 63 unilateral PA. The mean ages were 50.6 and 54.3 years (P = 0.081), and body mass indexes 30.3 and 30.6 kg/m2 (P = 0.724), respectively. Aortic blood pressure (BP) and cardiac output did not differ between the groups, but left cardiac work was ~10% higher in unilateral PA (P = 0.022). In the follow-up study, initial and final BPs in the aorta were not significantly different, while initial cardiac output (+13%, P = 0.015) and left cardiac work (+17%, P = 0.009) were higher in unilateral than bilateral PA. After median treatment of 33 months, the differences in cardiac load were abolished, and extracellular water volume was reduced by 1.3 and 1.4 l in bilateral vs. unilateral PA, respectively (P = 0.814).

CONCLUSIONS

These results suggest that unilateral PA burdens the heart more than bilateral PA, providing a possible explanation for the higher incidence of cardiac complications in unilateral disease. A similar reduction in aldosterone-induced volume excess was obtained with targeted surgical and medical treatment of PA.
A Non-Ideal Theory of Knowledge
Authors: McKenna Robin
Published: July 2024

In her article in this volume Linda Martín Alcoff makes the case for a form of political epistemology that denaturalizes, in the sense of historically and socially situating, procedures of knowledge production and distribution. She pursues this project via a discussion of three twentieth-century thinkers (Horkheimer, Habermas and Foucault) who, she argues, pursued this form of political epistemology, albeit in different ways, and to different ends. In this article I pursue a similar project, but within a different tradition, one that grows out of naturalized epistemology.
Discovery of an antimalarial compound, burnettiene A, with a multidrug-sensitive Saccharomyces cerevisiae screening system based on mitochondrial function inhibitory activity
Authors: Kimishima Aoi , Nishitomi Atsuka , Tsuruoka Iori , Sakai Katsuyuki , Hokari Rei , Honsho Masako , Honma Sota , Ono Yuki , Kondo Naozumi , Tsutsumi Hayama , Kikuchi Yuta , Tokiwa Toshiyuki , Kojima Hiroki , Higo Mayuka , Nonaka Kenichi , Inahashi Yuki , Iwatsuki Masato , Fuji Shin-ichi , Jang Jun-Pil , Jang Jae-Hyuk , Chinen Takumi , Usui Takeo , Asami Yukihiro
Published: July 2024

In this paper, we describe our discovery of burnettiene A (1) as an antimalarial compound from the culture broth of Lecanicillium primulinum (current name: Flavocillium primulinum) FKI-6715 strain utilizing our original multidrug-sensitive yeast system. This polyene-decalin polyketide natural product was originally isolated as an antifungal active compound from Aspergillus burnettii. However, the antifungal activity of 1 has been revealed in only one fungal species, and the mechanism of action of 1 remains unknown. After the validation of mitochondrial function inhibitory of 1, we envisioned a new antimalarial drug discovery platform based on mitochondrial function inhibitory activity. We evaluated antimalarial activity and 1 showed antimalarial activity against Plasmodium falciparum FCR3 (chloroquine sensitive) and the K1 strain (chloroquine resistant). Our study revealed the utility of our original screening system based on a multidrug-sensitive yeast and mitochondrial function inhibitory activity for the discovery of new antimalarial drug candidates.
Weighted centroid trees: a general approach to summarize phylogenies in single-labeled tumor mutation tree inference
Authors: Vasei Hamed , Foroughmand-Araabi Mohammad-Hadi , Daneshgar Amir
Published: July 2024

Motivation

Tumor trees, which depict the evolutionary process of cancer, provide a backbone for discovering recurring evolutionary processes in cancer. While they are not the primary information extracted from genomic data, they are valuable for this purpose. One such extraction method involves summarizing multiple trees into a single representative tree, such as consensus trees or supertrees.

Results

We define the “weighted centroid tree problem” to find the centroid tree of a set of single-labeled rooted trees through the following steps: (i) mapping the given trees into the Euclidean space, (ii) computing the weighted centroid matrix of the mapped trees, and (iii) finding the nearest mapped tree (NMTP) to the centroid matrix. We show that this setup encompasses previously studied parent–child and ancestor–descendent metrics as well as the GraPhyC and TuELiP consensus tree algorithms. Moreover, we show that, while the NMTP problem is polynomial-time solvable for the adjacency embedding, it is NP-hard for ancestry and distance mappings. We introduce integer linear programs for NMTP in different setups where we also provide a new algorithm for the case of ancestry embedding called 2-AncL2, that uses a novel weighting scheme for ancestry signals. Our experimental results show that 2-AncL2 has a superior performance compared to available consensus tree algorithms. We also illustrate our setup’s application on providing representative trees for a large real breast cancer dataset, deducing that the cluster centroid trees summarize reliable evolutionary information about the original dataset.

Availability and implementation

https://github.com/vasei/WAncILP.
More power by using fewer permutations
Authors: Koning Nick W
Published: July 2024

It is conventionally believed that permutation-based testing methods should ideally use all permutations. We challenge this by showing that we can sometimes obtain dramatically more power by using a tiny subgroup. As the subgroup is tiny, this also comes at a much lower computational cost. Moreover, the method remains valid for the same hypotheses. We exploit this to improve the popular permutation-based Westfall and Young MaxT multiple testing method. We analyse the relative efficiency in a Gaussian location model, and find the largest gain in high dimensions.
Synthesis, solid-state structures, and properties of linear and tripodal flexible molecules with pyrazinopyrazine moieties
Authors: Ohmura Yuto , Oketani Ryusei , Konishi Akihito , Yasuda Makoto , Hisaki Ichiro
Published: July 2024

Pyrazino[2,3-b]pyrazine, which is a naphthalene analog with iminium nitrogen atoms at 1,4,5,8-positions instead of sp2-carbon atoms, is attractive as a building block for nitrogen highly contained π-conjugated systems. In this study, we synthesized pyrazino[2,3-b]pyrazine-based linear and tripodal molecules, in which pyrazino[2,3-b]pyrazine moieties are bonded with the central benzene ring at 1,4-positions and 1,3,5-positions, respectively, giving conformationally flexible and moderately π-conjugated molecules. It is noteworthy that the tripodal one forms unique interdigitated dimer with a small cavity in a crystalline state because of flexible tripodal molecular shape.