bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
An mRNA-LNP-based Lassa virus vaccine induces protective immunity in mice
Authors: Hashizume Mei , Takashima Ayako , Iwasaki Masaharu
Published: May 2024

The mammarenavirus Lassa virus (LASV) causes the life-threatening hemorrhagic fever disease, Lassa fever. The lack of licensed medical countermeasures against LASV underscores the urgent need for the development of novel LASV vaccines, which has been hampered by the requirement for a biosafety level 4 facility to handle live LASV. Here, we investigated the efficacy of mRNA-lipid nanoparticle (mRNA-LNP)-based vaccines expressing the LASV glycoprotein precursor (LASgpc) or nucleoprotein (LCMnp) of the prototypic mammarenavirus, lymphocytic choriomeningitis virus (LCMV), in mice. Two doses of LASgpc- or LCMnp-mRNA-LNP administered intravenously (i.v.) protected C57BL/6 mice from a lethal challenge with a recombinant (r) LCMV expressing a modified LASgpc (rLCMV/LASgpc
2m
) inoculated intracranially. Intramuscular (i.m.) immunization with two doses of LASgpc- or LCMnp-mRNA-LNP significantly reduced the viral load in C57BL/6 mice inoculated i.v. with rLCMV/LASgpc
2m
. High levels of viremia and lethality were observed in CBA mice inoculated i.v. with rLCMV/LASgpc
2m
, which were abrogated by i.m. immunization with two doses of LASgpc-mRNA-LNP. The protective efficacy of two i.m. doses of LCMnp-mRNA-LNP was confirmed in a lethal hemorrhagic disease model of FVB mice i.v. inoculated with wild-type rLCMV. In all conditions tested, negligible and high levels of LASgpc- and LCMnp-specific antibodies were detected in mRNA-LNP-immunized mice, respectively, but robust LASgpc- and LCMnp-specific CD8
+
T cell responses were induced. Accordingly, plasma from LASgpc-mRNA-LNP-immunized mice did not exhibit neutralizing activity. Our findings and surrogate mouse models of LASV infection, which can be studied at a reduced biocontainment level, provide a critical foundation for the rapid development of mRNA-LNP-based LASV vaccines.

IMPORTANCE

Lassa virus (LASV) is a highly pathogenic mammarenavirus responsible for several hundred thousand infections annually in West African countries, causing a high number of lethal Lassa fever (LF) cases. Despite its significant impact on human health, clinically approved, safe, and effective medical countermeasures against LF are not available. The requirement of a biosafety level 4 facility to handle live LASV has been one of the main obstacles to the research and development of LASV countermeasures. Here, we report that two doses of mRNA-lipid nanoparticle-based vaccines expressing the LASV glycoprotein precursor (LASgpc) or nucleoprotein (LCMnp) of lymphocytic choriomeningitis virus (LCMV), a mammarenavirus genetically closely related to LASV, conferred protection to recombinant LCMV-based surrogate mouse models of lethal LASV infection. Notably, robust LASgpc- and LCMnp-specific CD8
+
T cell responses were detected in mRNA-LNP-immunized mice, whereas no virus-neutralizing activity was observed.
Complete genome sequence of the linezolid-resistant clinical
Enterococcus faecalis
N23-3408 linked to a livestock lineage in Switzerland
Authors: Nüesch-Inderbinen Magdalena , Biggel Michael , Wehrli Marianne , Fischer Andreas Hans , Stephan Roger
Published: May 2024

Here, we report the complete genome of human clinical linezolid-resistant
Enterococcus faecalis
N23-3408. N23-3408 harbored a 59.5 kb plasmid with antimicrobial resistance genes
cat
,
erm
(B),
fexA
,
optrA
,
tet
(L), and
tet
(M). Closely related
E. faecalis
harboring this plasmid was previously obtained from livestock animals and pet food in Switzerland.
Complete genome sequence of potential plant growth-promoting
Bacillus altitudinis
strain AIMST-CREST03 isolated from paddy field bulk soil
Authors: Sivaprakasam Sumitra , Mohd Azim Khan Nur Arisa , Yee Fan Tan , Kumarasan Yukgehnaish , Sicheritz-Pontén Thomas , Petersen Bent , Mohd Hata Erneeza , Vadamalai Ganesan , Parimannan Sivachandran , Rajandas Heera
Published: May 2024

We present the complete genome of a potential plant growth-promoting bacteria
Bacillus altitudinis AIMST-CREST03
isolated from a high-yielding paddy plot. The genome is 3,669,202 bp in size with a GC content of 41%. Annotation predicted 3,327 coding sequences, including several genes required for plant growth promotion.
Draft genome sequence of
Methylobacterium
sp. 37f isolated from forest soil
Authors: Uttarotai Toungporn , McGenity Terry J. , Sutheeworapong Sawannee , Chitov Thararat
Published: May 2024

In this study, we report the draft genome sequence data of
Methylobacterium
sp. 37f, isolated from soil beneath
Quercus semiserrata
Roxb. in Thailand. The genome consists of 5,305,449 base pairs, with a GC content of 67.5%.
Ecological and evolutionary processes involved in shaping microbial habitat generalists and specialists in urban park ecosystems
Authors: Li Shuzhen , Yan Xue , Abdullah Al Mamun , Ren Kexin , Rensing Christopher , Hu Anyi , Tsyganov Andrey N. , Mazei Yuri , Smirnov Alexey , Mazei Natalia , Yang Jun
Published: May 2024

Microbiomes are integral to ecological health and human well-being; however, their ecological and evolutionary drivers have not been systematically investigated, especially in urban park ecosystems. As microbes have different levels of tolerance to environmental changes and habitat preferences, they can be categorized into habitat generalists and specialists. Here, we explored the ecological and evolutionary characteristics of both prokaryotic and microeukaryotic habitat generalists and specialists from six urban parks across five habitat types, including moss, soil, tree hole, water, and sediment. Our results revealed that different ecological and evolutionary processes maintained and regulated microbial diversity in urban park ecosystems. Under ecological perspective, community assembly of microbial communities was mainly driven by stochastic processes; however, deterministic processes were higher for habitat specialists than generalists. Microbial interactions were highly dynamic among habitats, and habitat specialists played key roles as module hubs in intradomain networks. In aquatic interdomain networks, microeukaryotic habitat specialists and prokaryotic habitat specialists played crucial roles as module hubs and connectors, respectively. Furthermore, analyzing evolutionary characteristics, our results revealed that habitat specialists had a much higher diversification potential than generalists, while generalists showed shorter phylogenetic branch lengths as well as larger genomes than specialists. This study broadens our understanding of the ecological and evolutionary features of microbial habitat generalists and specialists in urban park ecosystems across multi-habitat.

IMPORTANCE

Urban parks, as an important urban greenspace, play essential roles in ecosystem services and are important hotspots for microbes. Microbial diversity is driven by different ecological and evolutionary processes, while little is currently known about the distinct roles of ecological and evolutionary features in shaping microbial diversity in urban park ecosystems. We explored the ecological and evolutionary characteristics of prokaryotic and microeukaryotic habitat generalists and specialists in urban park ecosystems based on a representative set of different habitats. We found that different ecological and evolutionary drivers jointly maintained and regulated microbial diversity in urban park microbiomes through analyzing the community assembly process, ecological roles in hierarchical interaction, and species diversification potential. These findings significantly advance our understanding regarding the mechanisms governing microbial diversity in urban park ecosystems.
Advantages of being diligent: lessons learnt from umbilical venous catheterisation in neonates
Authors: Abiramalatha Thangaraj , Kumar Manish , Shabeer Machilakath Panangandi , Thomas Niranjan
Published: May 2024

Umbilical venous catheters (UVCs) are commonly used in neonatal units. Abdominal radiograph, taken soon after the insertion, is used to confirm the correct placement of the catheter. However, as demonstrated by our case series, complacency when an initial UVC is normally positioned can lead to detecting UVC-related complications very late. We describe cases of three neonates where, despite the initial UVC being confirmed to be well positioned, the patients developed life-threatening complications, including liver haematoma, left atrial thrombus and pericardial effusion causing cardiac tamponade. The routine use of point of care echocardiography helped in the early diagnosis of these complications. We suggest repeated echocardiographic screening at regular intervals in all newborn babies requiring UVCs, to ensure that the catheter is maintained in the proper position and for the early detection of catheter-related complications.
Evaluation of systemic medications associated with diabetic retinopathy: a nested case–control study from the UK Biobank
Authors: Jin Guangming , Ma Yiyuan , Zheng Danying , Jin Ling , Young Charlotte Aimee , Shen Yanyu , Tan Yuan , Jin Jiaxin , Zhang Xinyu , Wu Yue , Liu Zhenzhen
Published: May 2024

Aims

This study aims to investigate the associations between commonly used systemic medications and diabetic retinopathy (DR).

Methods

Individuals with linked primary care prescription data from the UK Biobank were included. Cases were defined as individuals with a Hospital Episode Statistics-coded or primary care recorded diagnosis of DR or self-reported DR. Controls were matched for age, sex, glycosylated haemoglobin, duration of diabetes mellitus (DM), hypertension status and cardiovascular disease status. ORs and 95% CIs were calculated using conditional univariate and multivariable logistic regression models.

Results

A total of 3377 case subjects with DR were included in the study and matched with 3377 control subjects. In multivariable logistic regression, increased odds of incident DR were observed for exposure to short-acting insulins (OR 1.63; 95% CI 1.22 to 2.18), medium-acting insulins (OR 2.10; 95% CI 1.60 to 2.75), sulfonylureas (OR 1.30; 95% CI 1.16 to 1.46). Instead, the use of fibrates (OR 0.71; 95% CI 0.53 to 0.94) and Cox-2 inhibitors (OR 0.68; 95% CI 0.58 to 0.79) was associated with decreased odds of incident DR. Dose–response relationships were observed for all five drug categories (all p<0.05).

Conclusions

This study comprehensively investigated the associations between systemic medication use and DR and found significant associations between the use of short-acting insulins, medium-acting insulins and sulfonylureas with increased odds of incident DR. In contrast, fibrates and Cox-2 inhibitors were associated with decreased odds of incident DR. These findings may provide valuable insights into DM medication management and serve as a reference for the prevention of DR in patients with DM.
Vibration of effects resulting from treatment selection in mixed-treatment comparisons: a multiverse analysis on network meta-analyses of antidepressants in major depressive disorder
Authors: Vinatier Constant , Palpacuer Clement , Scanff Alexandre , Naudet Florian
Published: May 2024

Objective

It is frequent to find overlapping network meta-analyses (NMAs) on the same topic with differences in terms of both treatments included and effect estimates. We aimed to evaluate the impact on effect estimates of selecting different treatment combinations (ie, network geometries) for inclusion in NMAs.

Design

Multiverse analysis, covering all possible NMAs on different combinations of treatments.

Setting

Data from a previously published NMA exploring the comparative effectiveness of 22 treatments (21 antidepressants and a placebo) for the treatment of acute major depressive disorder.

Participants

Cipriani
et al
explored a dataset of 116 477 patients included in 522 randomised controlled trials.

Main outcome measures

For each possible treatment selection, we performed an NMA to estimate comparative effectiveness on treatment response and treatment discontinuation for the treatments included (231 between-treatment comparisons). The distribution of effect estimates of between-treatment comparisons across NMAs was computed, and the direction, magnitude and statistical significance of the 1st and 99th percentiles were compared.

Results

4 116 254 different NMAs concerned treatment response. Among possible network geometries, 172/231 (74%) pairwise comparisons exhibited opposite effects between the 1st and 99th percentiles, 57/231 (25%) comparisons exhibited statistically significant results in opposite directions, 118 of 231 (51%) comparisons derived results that were both significant and non-significant at 5% risk and 56/231 (24%) treatment pairs obtained consistent results with only significant differences (or only non-significant differences) at 5% risk. Comparisons based on indirect evidence only were associated with greater variability in effect estimates. Comparisons with small absolute values observed in the complete NMA more frequently obtained statistically significant results in opposite directions. Similar results were observed for treatment discontinuation.

Conclusion

In this multiverse analysis, we observed that the selection of treatments to be included in an NMA could have considerable consequences on treatment effect estimations.

Trial registration

https://osf.io/mb5dy
.
Preterm nutrition and brain development
Authors: Nava Chiara , Lupo Enrica , Lista Gianluca
Published: May 2024

Premature birth puts infants at risk for long-term outcomes, particularly neurodevelopmental impairment. The preterm brain is in a period of extreme vulnerability and fundamental development during hospitalisation in the neonatal intensive care unit. Complications of prematurity cause both direct injury to the preterm brain (e.g., white matter lesions, intraventricular haemorrhage) and altered qualitative and quantitative development of white and grey matter (dysmaturation). Nutrition plays an important role in the neurodevelopment of the preterm infant and the aim of this paper is to summarise the latest evidence on the relationship between nutrition and neurodevelopmental outcomes. For the preterm, as well as for the full-term infant, human milk (HM) appears to be associated with better grey and white matter development at brain magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), which then corresponds to better neurological outcomes in childhood (higher IQ and academic scores). In particular, HM components such as long-chain polyunsaturated fatty acids (LCPUFA) and Human Milk Oligosaccharides (HMOs) appear to play a key role in mediating this influence. As HM nutritional content is insufficient to meet the nutritional needs of most preterm infants, the use of multicomponent fortifiers derived from cow's milk has entered common practice in Neonatal Intensive Care Unit. Although there are promising results concerning the beneficial effects of HM fortifiers on auxological growth, data concerning the effects on neurodevelopment are still uncertain. In the absence of HM, formulas enriched of nutrients such as LCPUFA, HMOs, and sphingomyelin can make the formula more similar to breast milk and has been associated with improved myelination. Higher nutritional intakes of calories and lipids appear to be associated with fewer severe brain lesions and better maturation of white and grey matter. Prebiotics and postbiotics have been extensively studied in recent years for their beneficial effects on the gut and systemic level. In particular through the gut-brain axis it seems that they can regulate the inflammatory response and oxidative stress, mechanisms responsible for neurological damage of preterm infants. Nevertheless, evidence is still lacking on this point. Eventually, current knowledge on the role of micronutrient supplementation (e.g,. iron, lutein, iodine), is still scarce. Further studies are needed to better understand the mechanisms of action of different nutrients on brain development in the preterm infant and thus the effects on long-term neurological outcomes.
Joint RCEM and NPIS best practice guideline: assessment and management of acute opioid toxicity in adults in the emergency department
Authors: Blundell Matthew , Gill Rupinder , Thanacoody Ruben , Humphries Christopher , Wood David M , Dargan Paul I
Published: May 2024

The Royal College of Emergency Medicine Toxicology Special Interest Group in collaboration with the UK National Poisons Information Service and the Clinical Toxicology Department at Guy’s and St Thomas’ NHS Foundation Trust has produced guidance to support clinicians working in the ED with the assessment and management of adults with acute opioid toxicity.

Considerations regarding identification of acute opioid toxicity are discussed and recommendations regarding treatment options and secondary prevention are made. There is a focus on making recommendations on the best available evidence.
Familial aggregation of traffic risky behaviours among pedestrians: a cross-sectional study in northwestern Iran
Authors: Davtalab Esmaeili Elham , Ghaffari Alireza , R. Kalankesh Leila , Zeinalzadeh Ali Hossein , Dastgiri Saeed
Published: May 2024

Objective

This study aims to assess the familial aggregation of traffic risky behaviours among pedestrians and describe the sociodemographic profile of pedestrians in northwestern Iran.

Methods

A cross-sectional study was conducted among 933 pedestrians in 2023. Participants were selected using stratified random sampling. Traffic risky behaviour was measured using a validated instrument among heads of households and their first relatives. The generalised estimating equations were computed to estimate the adjusted OR and 95% CI for familial aggregation of traffic risky behaviours.

Results

Of the total sample, 52.2% and 27.7% of the participants were male and aged 41–50, respectively. The majority of respondents were categorised in middle socioeconomic class (36.9%). The OR for familial aggregation of traffic risky behaviours was 1.42 (95% CI 1.07 to 1.89), indicating that the presence of traffic risky behaviours in at least one family member increased the likelihood of similar behaviour in other members. Fathers showing violation behaviours were associated by 1.98-fold increase in violation behaviours among their offspring. Similarly, the existence of violation behaviour in one sibling increased the odds of violation behaviour among other siblings (OR 1.99, 95% CI 1.18 to 3.73).

Conclusions

This study revealed the familial aggregation of traffic risky behaviours of pedestrians, with father-offspring and sibling aggregations emerging as prominent components of familial aggregation. The findings suggested that family-based prevention programmes may yield greater effectiveness than individual-based approaches. As such, implementing targeted interventions focusing on family might have a substantial impact on reducing pedestrian traffic risky behaviours.
Content analysis of succession planning in nursing management: a qualitative study
Authors: Ashghali-Farahani Mansoureh , Salehi Tahmine , Mirzaee Mohammadsaeed
Published: May 2024

Aim

The identification and development of managerial talents for nursing manager succession in the future should be a concern for organisations, as the concept of succession planning has not been seriously addressed in nursing. This study aimed to explore managers’ perceptions of the concept of succession planning in nursing management.

Design

This qualitative study used a conventional content analysis approach.

Methods

Participants included 15 nursing managers, who were purposively selected based on predetermined inclusion and exclusion criteria. After obtaining ethical approval, data were collected through semistructured interviews. MAXQDA software was used for data management, and data analysis was performed using the seven-stage method by Graneheim and Lundman. The credibility and dependability of the data were assessed using Guba and Lincoln’s criteria.

Results

The main categories identified in this study were barriers to succession planning, facilitators, succession planning requirements, contextualisation, succession planning cycle, the dynamism of the successor organisation and consequences of lack of succession planning. Based on the findings of this study, it is recommended that organisations plan and adopt policies to develop qualified personnel management in nursing organisations and appoint these individuals to critical managerial positions.
Cardiovascular risk factors and complications in patients with systemic lupus erythematosus with and without nephritis: a systematic review and meta-analysis
Authors: Wong Cheuk Yin , Ma Becky M Y , Zhang Danting , Cheung Wynn , Chan Tak Mao , Yap Desmond Y H
Published: May 2024

Introduction

It remains unclear how the presence of renal involvement will affect the cardiovascular (CV) risk factors and complications in patients with SLE.

Methods

We conducted a systematic review and meta-analysis using PubMed, EMBASE, MEDLINE and Scopus to identify studies published between 1947 and 2022 that evaluate the CV risk factors and complications in patients with SLE with or without lupus nephritis (LN).

Results

58 studies were evaluated, with 22 two-arm studies (n=8675) included in two-arm meta-analysis and 45 studies (n=385 315) included in proportional meta-analysis. Patients with SLE with LN showed significantly higher risk of hypertension (HT) (OR=4.93, 95% CI=3.17 to 7.65, p<0.00001, I2=56%), hyperlipidaemia (OR=11.03, 95% CI=4.20 to 28.95, p<0.00001, I2=0%) and diabetes mellitus (DM) (OR=1.88, 95% CI=1.09 to 3.25, p=0.02, I2=32%) compared with those without LN. Patients with LN showed numerically higher prevalence of myocardial infarction (OR=1.35, 95% CI=0.53 to 3.45, p=0.52, I2=78%) and cerebrovascular accident (OR=1.64, 95% CI=0.79 to 3.39, p=0.27, I2=23%) than general patients with SLE. The incidence rates of CV mortality are also increased in patients with SLE with LN compared with those without LN (11.7/1000 patient-years vs 3.6/1000 patient-years).

Conclusion

Patients with SLE with LN show increased risk of CV risk factors including DM, HT and hyperlipidaemia. Early identification and optimal control of these CV risk factors may reduce the risk of CV disease and other non-CV complications.

PROSPERO registration number

CRD42022314682.
How to use podcasts in neurology
Authors: Mason Fleur , Mayer Josephine , O'Toole Brian , Williamson John , Ross Russell Amy
Published: May 2024

Virtual learning resources such as podcasts and social media are increasingly used in medical education. Podcasts are one example of virtual learning, where prerecorded audio files are available to stream or download from the internet, usually without a fee and at any time. This gives listeners flexibility in when and where they engage with the educational material, enabling learning to be better tailored to individual needs. Podcasts are often enjoyed for their relaxed and conversational style. However, listeners must be aware of the lack of external peer review and incomplete coverage of information. There are also risks inherent to distant learning, including depersonalisation of medical education. We describe the roles that podcasts now play in neurological education, exploring some of the ways that they can be used to enhance neurological training both as a learner and educator and giving our top tips, based on our own experiences, for anyone keen to add to the expanding field of available podcasts.
Homological aspects of topological gauge-gravity equivalence
Authors: Assimos Thiago S. , Sobreiro Rodrigo F.
Published: May 2024

In the works of Achúcarro and Townsend and also by Witten, a duality between three-dimensional Chern–Simons gauge theories and gravity was established. In all cases, the results made use of the field equations. In a previous work, we were capable of generalizing Witten’s work to the off-shell cases, as well as to the four-dimensional Yang–Mills theory with de Sitter gauge symmetry. The price we paid is that curvature and torsion must obey some constraints under the action of the interior derivative. These constraints implied on the partial breaking of diffeomorphism invariance. In this work, we first formalize our early results in terms of fiber bundle theory by establishing the formal aspects of the map between a principal bundle (gauge theory) and a coframe bundle (gravity) with partial breaking of diffeomorphism invariance. Then, we study the effect of the constraints on the homology defined by the interior derivative. The main result is the emergence of a non-trivial homology in Riemann–Cartan manifolds.
Joint Channel and Logistics Selection Strategies in an E-Commerce Supply Chain with a Capital-Constrained Supplier
Authors: Feng Lipan , Kou Qi , Dai Yuqian , Wu Xiaoli
Published: May 2024

Some prominent e-commerce giants, such as Amazon and JD.com, have established their own logistics service and shared it with other merchants. In this paper, we study the channel (reselling channel or agency channel) and logistics service (platform’s logistics or third-party logistics) selection strategies in an e-commerce supply chain composed of a limited capital supplier and a platform within the consideration of the supply chain finance. We show that the supplier’s channel and logistics service selection strategies depend on the cost coefficient of the platform’s logistics service and the production cost. Interestingly, the supplier prefers the reselling channel rather than the agency channel with the platform’s logistics service. This explains why the merchants in JD.com rarely use JD.com logistics in the agency channel. From the perspective of the platform, the platform may prefer the supplier to use third-party logistics service to deliver goods in the agency channel particularly when the cost coefficient of the platform’s logistics service is relatively large. Furthermore, the platform will put in more effort level aimed at enhancing the logistics service in the reselling channel.
An electric-field-assisted magnetic trap for cold molecular evaporative cooling: Toward molecular Bose–Einstein condensation
Authors: Zhu He , Bao Zheng-Bin , Shao Xu-Ping , Huang Yun-Xia , Yang Xiao-Hua
Published: May 2024

Ultracold molecules provide fundamental new insights into molecular interaction dynamics in the quantum regime and represent a new platform for chemical physics where quantum behaviors play a dominant role in molecular interaction and dynamics. An electric-field-assisted magnetic trap for trapping and further evaporative cooling of cold molecules to ultracold regime is proposed utilizing the perturbation of the hyperfine levels in a mixed field, and the depth of the trap can be tuned by adjusting the assisted electric field rapidly. Thus, the evaporative cooling of [Formula: see text]I[Formula: see text]Br molecules in the [Formula: see text] state of the rovibronic ground state is simulated. It shows that IBr molecules would be cooled from 26[Formula: see text][Formula: see text]K to 556[Formula: see text]nK within 598.9[Formula: see text]ms and eventually we would obtain a number of [Formula: see text] molecules in a volume of [Formula: see text][Formula: see text]cm3 with the number density of [Formula: see text][Formula: see text]cm[Formula: see text]. The Bose–Einstein condensation of the alkali diatomic molecules would probably be realized in the proposed trap if the present experimentally available samples are loaded.
Unveiling ductile, rare-earth-free structural materials: A DFT exploration of MnTi and MnZr
Authors: Benaissa Mohammed , Bouchaour Mama , Merad Laarej , Maloufi Nabila , Abdelkader Hayet Si , Bayram Mustafa , Ghani Ruqayyah Haider , Alhassan Muataz S. , Menni Younes
Published: May 2024

This paper presents a theoretical exploration of the electronic, structural, and mechanical attributes inherent in three rare-earth-free intermetallic compounds, namely, MnTi, MnZr, and MnHf. Employing density functional theory (DFT) calculations with the Implementation of projector augmented wave (PAW); our investigation adopts the supercell approach to meticulously determine the structural and mechanical properties of these materials. The findings reveal that MnTi and MnZr exhibit intrinsic ductility, positioning them as viable contenders for applications demanding high-strength structures. In contrast, MnHf demonstrates mechanical instability. This study provides promising insights into the mechanical characteristics of MnTi and MnZr, underscoring their potential as sustainable structural materials, given the abundance and non-toxic nature of their constituents. The research findings presented herein contribute to the understanding of rare-earth-free intermetallics, offering valuable information for applications in materials science and engineering.
Ca2+-doped DyTa3O9: A novel rare-earth tantalate high emissivity material
Authors: Li Jiaqi , Li Jianyu , Xu Bin , Ren Zhiyi , Yan Shixiao , Zhang Di , Wang Meng , Sun Xiaoliang , Liu Chi , Feng Jing
Published: May 2024

This work aims to investigate the influence of Ca[Formula: see text] doping on the infrared emission properties of DyTa3O9 ceramics. DyTa3O9 is considered a promising high-temperature thermal protection material due to its low thermal conductivity and good high-temperature stability. However, there is currently no research on the infrared radiation performance of such materials. We synthesized DyTa3O9 ceramics with different Ca[Formula: see text] doping concentrations using the solid-phase reaction method and systematically investigated the effect of doping concentration on the infrared emissivity of DyTa3O9 ceramics. When Ca[Formula: see text] is doped into the DyTa3O9 lattice, the original Dy elements are replaced by Ca, resulting in an increase in lattice constants and enhanced lattice distortion. The doping of Ca[Formula: see text] introduces impurity energy levels, making it possible for some low-energy electron transitions, achieving an enhancement in infrared absorption and emission capabilities. When the Ca[Formula: see text] doping concentration reaches 7.5% mol, the average infrared emissivity in the 3–5[Formula: see text][Formula: see text]m and 8–12[Formula: see text][Formula: see text]m ranges are 0.85 and 0.92, respectively, representing a 19.7% and 21% increase compared to DyTa3O9. This novel high-infrared-emissivity ceramic holds great potential for applications in high-temperature energy conservation and aerospace thermal protection.
Investigation of soliton solutions for the NWHS model with temperature distribution in an infinitely long and thin rod
Authors: Baber Muhammad Z. , Rezazadeh Hadi , Iqbal Muhammad S. , Ahmed Nauman , Yasin Muhammad W. , Hosseinzadeh Mohammad Ali
Published: May 2024

This study proposed a modified [Formula: see text]-expansion method to seek the new exact traveling wave solutions of the Newell–White–Head–Segel (NWHS) Model. This is an amplitude equation utilized for distributing temperature within a rod that is infinitely thin and long, or determining the flow velocity of a fluid through a pipe that is infinitely long but has a small diameter. The modified [Formula: see text]-expansion method is used to extract the new exact solutions. The solutions of this model are categorized in hyperbolic, trigonometric, and rational forms. Moreover, we compare our results with the new auxiliary equation method. The 3D, line and corresponding contour representation of these solutions are depicted by choosing the different values of parameters.
Constructing the soliton wave structure to the nonlinear fractional Kairat-X dynamical equation under computational approach
Authors: Iqbal Mujahid , Lu Dianchen , Seadawy Aly R. , Alomari Faizah A. H. , Umurzakhova Zhanar , Myrzakulov Ratbay
Published: May 2024

In this paper, the nonlinear fractional Kairat-X equation is investigated on the basis of computational simulation. The nonlinear fractional Kairat-X equation is an integrable equation and is used to explain the differential geometry of curves and equivalence aspects. Several kinds of solitary wave structures of the nonlinear fractional Kairat-X equation are established successfully via the implantation of the extended simple equation method. Here, we explore the interesting, novel and general solutions in trigonometric, exponential, and rational types, which represent periodic wave solitons, mixed solitons in the shape of bright–dark solutions, kink wave solitons, peakon bright and dark solitons, anti-kink wave solutions, bright solitons, dark solitons, and solitary wave structure. The physical structures of secured results, aided by numerical simulation, have numerous applications in applied sciences such as optical fiber, geophysics, laser optics, mathematical physics, nonlinear optics, nonlinear dynamics, communication system, and engineering. This study explores the physical behavior of models through the visualization of solutions in contour, 2D and 3D plots by revealing that these solutions yield profitable results in the field of mathematical physics. The study demonstrates that the proposed technique is more reliable, efficient, and powerful in analyzing nonlinear evolution equations in various domains of science.
A Series Compensated Buck-Boost Converter-Based Thermoelectric Energy Harvesting System with Sliding Mode Controller
Authors: Poornima D. , Vivekanandan C.
Published: May 2024

A thermoelectric generator (TEG) is a semiconductor-based device that can exhibit a flow of electric current through the external circuit if the sides of the TEG are subjected to a temperature difference caused by a heat source. The terminal voltage and the TEG’s internal resistance are altered depending on the temperature difference. Therefore, a suitable power electronic converter with a maximum power point tracking (MPPT) feature is required to harvest maximum power from the TEG and store the harvested energy in a battery-based energy storage system. This paper investigates a novel energy harvesting methodology from TEG using a series compensated buck-boost converter (SCBBC). MPPT has also been implemented using a sliding mode controller (SMC). A mathematical model of a TEG source has been developed in MATLAB-Simulink and tested with generic boost converter (GBC) and SCBBC for their dynamic performances during battery charging. The efficiency of conversion is found to be higher for SCBBC, at 97.87%. An experimental prototype has been developed with SCBBC and tested for two configurations, viz high voltage and low current configuration. The former configuration exhibits an efficiency of 86.3%, while the latter has an efficiency of 83%. The results indicate that SCBBC, along with SMC, opens up new efficient prospects for harvesting waste heat energy using TEGs.
DYNAMICS OF A TRI-TROPHIC LEVEL MODEL WITH EXCESS FOOD NUTRIENT CONTENT AND INTRAGUILD PREDATION STRUCTURE
Authors: GAO SHUFEI , YUAN SANLING
Published: May 2024

The dynamics of consumers can be affected by both nutrient-deficient food (low phosphorus (P) to carbon (C) ratio) and nutrient-excessive (high P:C) food, which is known as the stoichiometric knife-edge phenomenon. In this study, aiming to illustrate the responses of herbivores and omnivores to food with excessive P content, we present and analyze a tri-trophic level stoichiometric knife-edge model incorporating the intraguild predation structure. The model dynamics are theoretically examined, including the boundedness and positivity of solutions, the existence and stability of boundary equilibria, and the existence of positive equilibria. Numerical simulations show that the model has complex dynamics, encompassing chaotic-like oscillations, multiple types of bifurcations, long transients, and regime shifts. Moderate P levels facilitate the coexistence of the three species, whereas both lower and higher P levels result in the extinction of herbivores and omnivores. Specifically, the energy enrichment paradox occurs at low P levels. In contrast, the nutrient enrichment paradox occurs at high P levels, both of which are detrimental to the survival of herbivores and omnivores. Furthermore, the high-intensity predation of producers by omnivores helps to restrain the occurrence of chaotic dynamics. These findings contribute to a deeper understanding of the mechanisms of multi-species coexistence.
Vibration Analysis of Rotating Annular Flexoelectric Microplate
Authors: Hosseini S. M. H. , Tadi Beni Y. , Kiani Y.
Published: May 2024

This research investigates the free vibration of a rotating annular microplate under the flexoelectric effect. Initially, the Kirchhoff plate theory assumptions are used to express the displacement fields. After considering the displacement field, strains and their gradients are derived and substituted into the electric enthalpy and kinetic energy expressions. Subsequently, by applying Hamilton’s principle to the aforementioned equations, the electric and mechanical equations are computed. To derive the equations of motion, initially, the polarization vectors and their gradients are derived from the electric equations and associated boundary conditions. Subsequently, these are incorporated into the mechanical equations, which also encompass electric components. It is notable that by removing the time-dependent terms from the in-plane equations of motion, the static displacement due to rotation at each speed is obtained. After deriving the equations of motion and boundary conditions, these equations are non-dimensionalized using non-dimensionalizing relations. In the next step, Hamilton’s principle is used to discretize the equations and boundary conditions. Consequently, by applying the generalized differential quadrature method and extracting the stiffness and mass matrices resulting from the transverse equation of motion and boundary conditions, the natural transverse frequency of the rotating annular microplate under the flexoelectric effect is calculated. The results of this research are useful for promoting the use of rotating annular microplants under flexoelectric effect for microelectromechanical systems designers with high efficiency.
Energy Harvesting Estimation from Vibration of Chopped Fiber Rod-Reinforced Microbeams with Piezoelectric Patch Based on Five Parameter-Surface-Strain Gradient Beam Model
Authors: Balubaid Mohammed , Ramady Ahmed , Mahmoud S. R. , Kolahchi R. , Keshtegar B. , Ali S. I. , Algarni Ali , Yaylacı M. , Farrokhian A.
Published: May 2024

During the last years, the design and production of self-powered engineering structures gained extensive attention due to the shortage of nonrenewable energy resources and the increase in fossil fuel prices. To this end, the current numerical study focused on assessing the forced vibration behavior and energy harvesting capability of a silicon microbeam reinforced with chopped fiber rods (CFRs). This topic is important because it offers a novel approach to generate sustainable energy from ambient vibrations, addressing the growing demand for renewable energy sources while advancing structural health monitoring and smart materials technology. The piezoelectric patch is located at the top surface of the microbeam and is under the distributed harmonic force. The related governed relations are derived using the new theory of the five-parameter beam model, which also accounted for the Poisson effect, and solved by adopting the Galerkin method. The microscale effects are taken into account by employing strain gradient theory. Moreover, the effects of the top and bottom surfaces have accounted for the microbeam using Gurtin and Murdoch’s theory. The outcomes of this research indicated that utilizing narrow-short length piezoelectric patches for Silicon microbeams yields the highest available output voltage. Compared to the homogeneous porosity distribution case, as the porosity coefficient reduced in the bottom and top surfaces of the microbeam, the voltage initial rise point decreased by about 13%. By increasing the porosity coefficient to 0.9, both voltage and displacement initial rise points are increased respectively by approximately 32% and 890%. As the piezoelectric patch thickness is decreased from 8[Formula: see text][Formula: see text]m to 6[Formula: see text][Formula: see text]m while the strain gradient theory is utilized, voltage and displacement initial rise points are increased respectively about 1066.67% and 1[Formula: see text]200%. Also, a simultaneous increase in CFRs vol. fraction from 5% to 10% and Silicon microbeam thickness from 7[Formula: see text][Formula: see text]m to 8[Formula: see text][Formula: see text]m caused about 37% improvement in dynamic deflections.
Research and Application of Two-Dimensional Time-Delayed Tri-Stable Stochastic Resonance System for Bearing Fault Detection
Authors: He Lifang , Xu Jiaqi , Huang Xiaoxiao
Published: May 2024

The time-delayed feedback term can improve the output of a system, while the two-dimensional stochastic resonance (SR) system has a stronger signal amplification capability. To improve the output signal-to-noise ratio (SNR) of the system, this paper proposes a two-dimensional time-delayed tri-stable stochastic resonance system (TDTDTSR) based on the advantages of the above two systems. First, the steady-state probability density function (SPD), the mean first-pass time (MFPT), and the output SNR are derived under adiabatic approximation theory, and the effects of different system parameters on them are investigated. Next, TDTDTSR and the classical two-dimensional tri-stable stochastic resonance system (CTDTSR) system are simulated numerically. The results show that the mean signal-to-noise gain (MSNRG) of TDTDTSR system is higher than that of the CTDTSR system. Finally, the system parameters are optimized using a genetic algorithm, and the application of TDTDTSR to bearing fault detection is compared with CTDTSR and the novel piecewise symmetric two-dimensional tri-stable stochastic resonance (NPSTDTSR) systems. The experimental results demonstrate that TDTDTSR system has better performance, providing valuable theoretical support and practical engineering applications for the system in subsequent analyses.
Construction of Rod-Like Bi4O5I2/NaYF4:Yb,Tm Composite and its Improved Photocatalytic Degradation Performance Under Near-Infrared Light
Authors: Ren Qianqian , Chen Qichen , Luo Xiaoli , Wang Zexuan , Wang Zihan , Li Qiang , Chen Cheng , Yan Junfeng , Zhai Chunxue , Yun Jiangni , Zhao Wu
Published: May 2024

Photocatalytic technology exhibits promising prospects in environmental remediation owing to its sustainable and environmentally friendly advantages. Among the bismuth-rich halide oxides, Bi4O5I2 has demonstrated remarkable efficacy in dye degradation due to its favorable valence band and conduction band positions. In this study, we successfully synthesized Bi4O5I2/NaYF4:Yb,Tm composites through a solvothermal method. When exposed to visible light, the Bi4O5I2/NaYF4:Yb,Tm composite achieved an impressive degradation rate of 86.7% for RhB solution after 60[Formula: see text]min of light-induced reaction. Moreover, the incorporation of NaYF4:Yb,Tm into Bi4O5I2 extended the utilization of near-infrared (NIR) spectroscopy. Under 980[Formula: see text]nm NIR light irradiation, the degradation rate of Rhodamine B (RhB) solution by the Bi4O5I2/NaYF4:Yb,Tm composite reached 43.0% after 240[Formula: see text]min of light reaction. Free radical capture experiments confirmed that h[Formula: see text] and •[Formula: see text] O[Formula: see text] played a significant role as the primary active species in the degradation process of RhB by the Bi4O5I2/NaYF4:Yb,Tm composites. Furthermore, we explored the mechanism behind the photocatalytic degradation of RhB solution using the Bi4O5I2/NaYF4:Yb,Tm composites. Bi4O5I2/NaYF4:Yb,Tm holds great potential as a promising candidate for utilization of NIR light for photocatalytic reactions.
On Hom–Nambu–Poisson superalgebras structures and their representations
Authors: Ncib Othmen
Published: May 2024

The purpose of this paper is to study some results of constructions on Hom–Poisson superalgebras. We use the representations and Rota–Baxter operators. We introduce the notion of [Formula: see text]-ary Hom–Nambu–Poisson superalgebras and their representations and we study relationships between Hom–Poisson superalgebras and its induced [Formula: see text]-ary Hom–Nambu–Poisson superalgebras. The same concept is applied for the representations of [Formula: see text]-ary Hom–Nambu–Poisson superalgebras.
On a subclass of close-to-convex functions
Authors: Dash Prachi Prajna , Prajapat Jugal Kishore
Published: May 2024

In this paper, we define a new subclass of close-to-convex functions with respect to certain univalent functions studied by [Z. Peng and G. Zhong, Some properties for certain classes of univalent functions defined by differential inequalities, Acta Math. Sci. Ser. B[Formula: see text]Engl. Ed.[Formula: see text]  37(1) (2017) 69–78]. We find certain examples of functions belong to the class. Further, we give coefficient estimates, distortion theorem and some more results for this new subclass. Finally, we obtain radius of convexity for functions belong to the class.
Smart hydrogel catalyst with tunable activity for 4-nitrophenol reduction at different temperatures and pH
Authors: Pu Lei , Cheng Yuan , Wei Wenjing , Li Songjun
Published: May 2024

In this study, a novel method is introduced for preparing the poly (N-isopropylacrylamideco-methacrylic acid) (PNIPAM) hydrogel catalyst (PNMC-Ag) with embedded silver nanoparticles (Ag NPs), by employing in situ reduction of Ag+ in polymeric network. The prepared hydrogel catalyst exhibits both thermal and pH responsiveness, facilitating precise control of catalytic efficiency in reducing pollutants such as 4-nitrophenol (4-NP) under varying environmental conditions. The embedded Ag NPs demonstrate remarkable stability against self-aggregation due to their confinement within the polymeric network, thus maintaining their exceptional catalytic performance over time. Leveraging the dual-responsive nature of the PNMC-Ag catalyst, tunable catalytic activity can be achieved by adjusting the temperature and pH of the reaction environment. Specifically, the Ag NPs-hydrogel catalyst exhibits high catalytic activity (21 min, 98.5%) in low-temperature ([Formula: see text]< 32°C) at neutral pH and alkaline (pH = 9) conditions at room temperature, while its activity is attenuated in high-temperature ([Formula: see text]> 32°C) at neutral pH or acidic (pH [Formula: see text]4) environments at room temperature owing to the hydrogel’s thermal and pH-responsive characteristics. This distinctive feature enables precise control over the catalytic reaction, offering an effective approach for the removal of 4-NP from wastewater using a noble-metal-containing stimuli-responsive hydrogel (SRH) catalyst. Overall, this work represents a significant step towards the development of intelligent catalytic materials with superior environmental remediation capabilities.
Causality for Trustworthy Artificial Intelligence: Status, Challenges and Perspectives
Authors: Rawal Atul , Raglin Adrienne , Rawat Danda B. , Sadler Brian M. , McCoy James
Published: May 2024

Causal inference is the idea of cause and effect; this fundamental area of sciences can be applied to problem space associated with Newton’s laws or the devastating COVID-19 pandemic. The cause explains the “why,” whereas the effect describes the “what.” The domain itself encompasses a plethora of disciplines from statistics and computer science to economics and philosophy. Recent advancements in machine learning and artificial intelligence systems have nourished a renewed interest in identifying and estimating the cause-and-effect relationship from the substantial amount of available observational data. This has resulted in various new studies aimed at providing novel methods for identifying and estimating causal inference. We include a detailed taxonomy of causal inference frameworks, methods, and evaluation. An overview of causality for security is also provided. Open challenges are detailed, and approaches for evaluating the robustness of causal inference methods are described. This article aims to provide a comprehensive survey on such studies of causality. We provide an in-depth review of causality frameworks and describe the different methods.