bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Assessment of sleep patterns in dementia and general population cohorts using passive in-home monitoring technologies
Authors: Rigny Louise , Fletcher-Lloyd Nan , Capstick Alex , Nilforooshan Ramin , Barnaghi Payam
Published: October 2024

Background

Nocturnal disturbances are a common symptom experienced by People Living with Dementia (PLWD), and these often present prior to diagnosis. Whilst sleep anomalies have been frequently reported, most studies have been conducted in lab environments, which are expensive, invasive and not natural sleeping environments. In this study, we investigate the use of in-home nocturnal monitoring technologies, which enable passive data collection, at low cost, in real-world environments, and without requiring a change in routine.

Methods

Clustering analysis of passively collected sleep data in the natural sleep environment can help identify distinct sub-groups based on sleep patterns. The analysis uses sleep activity data from; (1) the Minder study, collecting in-home data from PLWD and (2) a general population dataset (combined n = 100, >9500 person-nights).

Results

Unsupervised clustering and profiling analysis identifies three distinct clusters. One cluster is predominantly PLWD relative to the two other groups (72% ± 3.22, p = 6.4 × 10−7, p = 1.2 × 10−2) and has the highest mean age (77.96 ± 0.93, p = 6.8 × 10−4 and p = 6.4 × 10−7). This cluster is defined by increases in light and wake after sleep onset (p = 1.5 × 10−22, p = 1.4 × 10−7 and p = 1.7 × 10−22, p = 1.4 × 10−23) and decreases in rapid eye movement (p = 5.5 × 10−12, p = 5.9 × 10−7) and non-rapid eye movement sleep duration (p = 1.7 × 10−4, p = 3.8 × 10−11), in comparison to the general population.

Conclusions

In line with current clinical knowledge, these results suggest detectable dementia sleep phenotypes, highlighting the potential for using passive digital technologies in PLWD, and for  detecting architectural sleep changes more generally. This study indicates the feasibility of leveraging passive in-home technologies for disease monitoring.
Reduction of bulk and interface defects via photo-annealing treatment for high-efficiency antimony selenide solar cells
Authors: Liang Xiaoyang , Wang Xinhua , Chang Qiwei , Yang Bingxin , Dang Wei , Zhang Zheng , Guo Yingnan , Yang Lin , Li Zhiqiang
Published: October 2024

A novel interface engineering strategy with a photo-annealing treatment is proposed for regulating the interface of the Sb2Se3/CdS heterojunction.
Kinetic multilayer models for surface chemistry in indoor environments
Authors: Lakey Pascale S. J. , Shiraiwa Manabu
Published: October 2024

Multiphase interactions and chemical reactions at indoor surfaces are of particular importance due to their impact on air quality in indoor environments with high surface to volume ratios.
Oxalate-assisted Fe2O3 surface functionalization of nanosized MgMn2O4 and α-MnO2 cathodes for rechargeable magnesium batteries
Authors: Ishijima Masanao , Omata Arisa , Kanamura Kiyoshi , Mandai Toshihiko , Ye Xiatong , Ichitsubo Tetsu , Kajihara Koichi
Published: October 2024

An oxalate-assisted Fe2O3 functionalization technique was developed and improved the electrochemical properties of cathode materials for rechargeable magnesium batteries.
Advancements in polymer nanoconfinement: tailoring material properties for advanced technological applications
Authors: Alvarez-Fernandez Alberto , Maiz Jon
Published: October 2024

This perspective highlights key challenges and opportunities in the rapidly evolving field of confined polymers and their practical applications, with special focus on those related to optoelectronic and thermoelectric devices.
Highly stable and ultra-fast vibration-responsive flexible iontronic sensors for accurate acoustic signal recognition
Authors: Wang Yan , Liao Weiqiang , Yang Xikai , Wang Kexin , Yuan Shengpeng , Liu Dan , Liu Cheng , Yang Shiman , Wang Li
Published: October 2024

A wearable acoustic vibration pressure sensor was developed based on an interfacial-enhanced iontronic dielectric and integrated with an acoustic recognition system using a deep learning classifier.
Constructing protein-functionalized DNA origami nanodevices for biological applications
Authors: Zhao Chuangyuan , Jiang Xinran , Wang Miao , Gui Songbai , Yan Xin , Dong Yuanchen , Liu Dongsheng
Published: October 2024

In this review, Zhao et al. have summarized the construction of protein-functionalized DNA origami nanodevices and their biological applications. The challenges and potential directions in cell biology and structural biology have also been discussed.
Recent advances in the technology of effervescent tablets: lessons learned and future perspectives
Authors: Chatzidopavlaki Paraskevi , Triantafyllopoulou Efstathia , Pippa Natassa , Valsami Georgia , Dallas Paraskevas P.
Published: October 2024

This review manuscript deals with the recent technological advances in effervescent formulations.
Enhancing CO2 electroreduction with decamethylcucurbit[5]uril-alkaline earth metal modified Pd nanoparticles
Authors: Shao Tao , Song Xianmeng , Wei Zongnan , Yang Shuaibing , Zhang Siying , Cao Rong , Cao Minna
Published: October 2024

Pd NP modification with Me10CB[5]–M capsules boosted CO2RR by enhancing CO2 adsorption, tuning Pd's electronic structure, and optimizing *COOH/*CO binding.
A non-equivalent Ni doped La-MOF for enhanced photocatalytic CO2 reduction through oxygen vacancy regulation and electronic structure optimization
Authors: Zhang Tongzheng , Huang Zhaohui , Xie Guanshun , Liao Le , Yu Changqiang , Xie Xiuqiang , Zhang Nan
Published: October 2024

La/Ni-MOF with oxygen vacancies and regulated electronic structures is prepared and exhibits enhanced visible-light photocatalytic activity for CO2-to-CO conversion.
A smart spiropyran-containing cellulose material for photopatterning, temperature and humidity sensing
Authors: Zhou Xue , Liu Jishuai , Xie Congxia , Wu Zhongtao , Zhang Lei , Luo Xiliang
Published: October 2024

A smart cellulose material can respond to light, heat and humidity. This study provides a design strategy for fabricating multiple stimuli-responsive materials.
Electrophilic aromatic substitution of electron-rich arenes with N-fluorobenzenesulfonimide (NFSI) as an electrophile
Authors: Bai Lina , Tu Dewei , Deng Ping , Chen Yongjie , Tang Qiang
Published: October 2024

The σ-complex is formed first, followed by the production of two adduct isomers, and ultimately yielding the desired product through an elimination reaction.
Nickel foam supported biochar doped Ni–Mo bimetallic oxide for supercapacitor application
Authors: Jin Zhongxin , Hu Kaijia , Lin Feng , Liu Siqi , Gu Ruining , Zhang Wei , Liu Siyu , Li Caiying , Liao Hongyang , Cai Xinping , Pang Haijun , Zhang Chunjing , Ma Huiyuan
Published: October 2024

A novel C-MoO3-NiO2/NF electrode derived from polyoxometalate and rice is obtained and provides a new strategy for the development of high-performance supercapacitors.
Boronic ester-templated pre-rotaxanes as versatile intermediates for rotaxane endo-functionalisation
Authors: Yu Jingjing , Gaedke Marius , Das Satyajit , Stares Daniel L. , Schalley Christoph A. , Schaufelberger Fredrik
Published: October 2024

Dynamic covalent boronic ester bonds can pre-organise diol-containing threads and V-shaped boronic acid ligands towards mechanical interlocking. After interlocking, the pre-rotaxane could be modified to create many unique [2]rotaxanes architectures.
Time-resolved single-cell transcriptomic sequencing
Authors: Xu Xing , Wen Qianxi , Lan Tianchen , Zeng Liuqing , Zeng Yonghao , Lin Shiyan , Qiu Minghao , Na Xing , Yang Chaoyong
Published: October 2024

Single-cell dynamics study enables to reveal cell heterogeneity in fundamental mechanisms governing cell behavior. This review provides an overview of the time-resolved single-cell transcriptomic sequencing methodologies and applications.
Electrochemical reconstruction of metal–organic gels into crystalline oxy-hydroxide heterostructures for efficient oxygen evolution electrocatalysis
Authors: Liu Kang , Lan Haikuo , Chen Yuting , Tang Weicheng , Xiao Zhenyu , Du Yunmei , Xing Jun , Wu Zexing , Wang Lei
Published: October 2024

An amorphous MOG electrochemically reconstitutes to a crystalline NiOOH/FeOOH heterostructure with the morphology changed from nanofibers to nanosheets as a high-performance OER electrocatalyst.
Improved charge separation and transport with l-aspartic acid derived carbon-doped g-C3N4 for efficient visible-light photocatalytic H2 production
Authors: Ullah Ikram , Qin Ning , Zhao Pei , Li Jing-Han , Chen Shuai , Xu An-Wu
Published: October 2024

Carbon-doped graphitic carbon nitride photocatalysts were prepared through one-step calcination utilizing l-aspartic acid and urea. With the optimal CCN-8 6.6 times higher H2 evolution rate was obtained than that of pristine CN under visible light.
Modeling nematic phase main-chain liquid crystal elastomer synthesis, mechanics, and thermal actuation via coarse-grained molecular dynamics
Authors: Herard Nicolas , Annapooranan Raja , Henry Todd , Kröger Martin , Cai Shengqiang , Boechler Nicholas , Sliozberg Yelena
Published: October 2024

A coarse-grained molecular dynamics simulation study of the synthesis, mechanics, and thermal actuation of nematic phase main-chain liquid crystal elastomers (LCEs), a type of soft, temperature-responsive, polymeric actuating material.
Beam shaping elements for single photon sources based on 3D printed micro-optics
Authors: Jimenez Carlos , Toulouse Andrea , Herkommer Alois
Published: October 2024

Multiple researchers have explored the use of 3D printed micro-optical components as interfaces to quantum point emitters by considering different designs and configurations. Typically, these designs involve parametric structures optimized in combination with idealized point source models following the principles of imaging optics. In this work, we propose a different approach based on the use of well-known numerical routines developed in the field of illumination optics. We compare the obtained design to reference parametric 3D printed based interfaces, which have been used in the context of 3D printed micro-optical interfaces to single photon sources.
CO2 laser assisted processing of (Ho0.05Y0.95)2Ti2O7 coatings for infrared photonics
Authors: Podrazký Ondřej , Vařák Petr , Bartoň Ivo , Proboštová Jana , Mrázek Jan
Published: October 2024

We demonstrated CO2 laser assisted processing of highly transparent (Ho0.05Y0.95)2Ti2O7 nanocrystalline coatings. The amorphous coating of the thickness of 577 nm was prepared by subsequent spin-coating of a colloidal solution followed by densification at 700°C in a radiation furnace. The densified coating was irradiated by a laser beam of a power density of 20 mW/mm2 for 60 s to induce the crystallization process. The nanocrystals formation caused the densification of the coatings reducing the thickness to 490 nm and increased the refractive index to 2.088. The coating exhibited strong luminescence at 2.1 and 2.95 μm corresponding to 5I7→5I8 and 5I6→5I7 electronic transitions, respectively. The corresponding time-resolved luminesce records showed the single-exponential decay course reaching the values of 8.4 ms and 0.221 ms for the emissions recorded at 2.1 and 2.95 μm, respectively. The demonstrated process can be used to prepare a luminescent coating with tailored properties. CO2 laser assisted processing can be used in a manner of direct laser writing for the preparation of integrated optical waveguides and amplifiers as a powerful alternative to conventional thermal processing.
Modeling extreme ultraviolet attosecond pulses in modulated waveguides
Authors: Toşa Valer , Tóth Istvan Ferenc , Gherman Ana Maria Mihaela , Ciriolo Anna Gabriella , Martínez Vázquez Rebeca , Nistico Alessio , Stagira Salvatore
Published: October 2024

We explore via numerical modeling the generation of very short photon wavelengths in hollow core waveguides (HCW) filled with He gas at high pressures. Propagation of femtosecond driving pulses is first solved using a split-step method and tested against other methods. The propagation along the HCW reveals mode beating seen in quasi-periodic oscillations of the field intensity and phase which in turn will determine the single atom response to the field. We explore both cylindrical and conical HCW in which the guide diameter varies along the propagation direction. This second configuration generates very high harmonic orders in a regime of quasi-phase matching. We found three spectral ranges which show amplification, at 3.5, 7.6, and 11-13 nm, which are of great interest given their practical applications in spectroscopy, XUV metrology and photolithography.
Supercontinuum generation in high-index doped silica photonic integrated circuits under diverse pumping settings
Authors: Khallouf C. , Hoang V. T. , Fanjoux G. , Little B. , Chu S. T. , Moss D. J. , Morandotti R. , Dudley J. M. , Wetzel B. , Sylvestre T.
Published: October 2024

Recent years have witnessed remarkable progress in enhancing the supercontinuum (SC) generation in highly nonlinear photonic integrated waveguides. In this study, we conduct a comprehensive investigation into supercontinuum (SC) generation in high-index doped silica glass integrated waveguides. We explore a variety of femtosecond pumping wavelengths and input polarization states, demonstrating octave-spanning SC bandwidth from visible to mid-infrared wavelengths.
Artificial Intelligence-assisted Raman Spectroscopy for Liver cancer diagnosis
Authors: Esposito Concetta , Janneh Mohammed , Spaziani Sara , Calcagno Vincenzo , Bernardi Mario Luca , Iammarino Martina , Verdone Chiara , Tagliamonte Maria , Buonaguro Luigi , Pisco Marco , Aversano Lerina , Cusano Andrea
Published: October 2024

Hepatocellular carcinoma (HCC), the most common form of primary liver cancer, represents a global health challenge due to its complexity and the limitations of current diagnostic techniques. By combining Raman spectroscopy and Artificial Intelligence (AI), we have succeeded in classifying tumor cells. In fact, we have performed a first Raman spectral analysis based on the characterization and differentiation between uncultured primary human liver cells derived from resected HCC tumor tissue and the adjacent non-tumor counterpart. Biochemical analysis of the collected Raman spectra revealed that there is more DNA in the nuclei of the tumor cells than in non-tumor cells. We then develop three machine learning approaches, including multivariate models and neural networks, to rapidly automate the recognition and classification of the Raman spectra of both cells. To evaluate the performance of the developed AI models, we prepared and analyzed two additional cell samples with a ratio of 4:1 and 3:1 between tumor and non-tumor cells and compared the obtained results with the nominal percentages (accuracy of 80 and 60%, respectively). These results confirm that the models are able to make classifications at the level of a single spectrum, indicating the possibility of rapidly analysing and classifying a primary HCC cell.
All-Optical Self-Heated Sensing Platform for Water Content Monitoring in Soil
Authors: Berruti Gaia Maria , Leone Marco , Vaiano Patrizio , Persiano Giovanni Vito , Consales Marco , Cusano Andrea
Published: October 2024

In this contribution, we propose the use of an advanced all-optical self-heated sensing platform for highly sensitive monitoring of the volumetric water content (VWC) in the soil. The sensor is realized by properly integrating, inside a standard metallic needle, a fiber optic heating device based on core offset light coupling method and a Fiber Bragg Grating (FBG) acting as thermal monitor. The performance of the proposed device was validated through a series of measurements in the range [9 - 36] %VWC in the soil temperature range between 5 and 40 °C. Collected results have demonstrated that the presented platform is able to perform highly stable, fast and robust measurements, with time response lower than 10 seconds. The possibility of tuning the value of the injected power according to the application makes the proposed sensing solution extremely flexible and versatile for its exploitation in large areas and/or long-distance.
Polymer photonic aegises as near-infrared reflectors
Authors: Lanfranchi Andrea , Megahd Heba , Lova Paola , Comoretto Davide
Published: October 2024

Year by year, thermal shielding has seen an increase in importance for reduction of energetic consumption in vehicles and buildings as a passive method of cooling opposed to traditional antiecologic air conditioning. In this work, we report on the design and fabrication of flexible, multilayer polymer photonic crystals films, namely aegises. Exploiting their peculiar optical properties, aegises are designed to act as selective reflectors for the near-infrared radiation, principal cause of radiative heating by sunlight, while keeping a relative transparency in the visible range. Different polymers are used as alternating building blocks, and the efficiency of the fabricated structures is assessed via thermal experiments, achieving efficiencies greater than 25% in heating reduction.
Scaling photonic systems-on-chip production with neural networks
Authors: Yadav Ksenia , Bidnyk Serge , Balakrishnan Ashok
Published: October 2024

We describe our use of deep learning to optimize the multi-dimensional parameter space of systems-on-chip as an important step towards the scalable production of photonic solutions and their widespread integration into high-volume applications. The challenges of transitioning between prototype and volume production are highlighted, and the suitability of deep neural networks for navigating the multi-dimensional design space of today’s photonic circuits is discussed. We adopt multi-path neural network architectures to reduce the computational requirements of model training and to mitigate the risk of overfitting. We demonstrate the use of a multi-path neural network to optimize the construction parameters of photonic designs in a high-volume production environment. Lastly, we discuss the advantages of using machine learning not only as a highly capable tool for navigating the multi-dimensional design space of complex systems-on-chip but also as an effective strategy for compensating for fabrication process non-uniformities that are undetectable by standard process metrology instruments.
Species of Annulotrema (Monopisthocotylea, Dactylogyridae) parasitising African tetras (Characiformes, Alestidae) in the Phongolo River, South Africa with the description of four new species
Authors: Kičinjaová Maria Lujza , Přikrylová Iva , Seifertová Mária , Řehulková Eva , Gelnar Milan , Smit Nico J.
Published: October 2024

Species of Alestidae are known to be parasitised by dactylogyrid monogeneans representing three genera, Afrocleidodiscus Paperna, 1969, Annulotrema Paperna & Thurston, 1969, and Characidotrema Paperna & Thurston, 1968. The objective of the present study was to investigate the species diversity of Monopisthocotylea of African tetras from the Lower Phongolo River and floodplain in South Africa. Four new and two previously described species of Annulotrema were identified from the gills of three species of African tetras, Brycinus imberi, Hydrocynus vittatus, and Micralestes acutidens. The collected parasites were studied using two complementary approaches: morphology of hard sclerotised structures, and molecular markers using rDNA sequence data (28S rDNA, 18S rDNA, and ITS1). Three new species, Annulotrema arcum n. sp., Annulotrema caputfemoris n. sp., and Annulotrema strepsiceros n. sp., were described from B. imberi and one species, Annulotrema retortum n. sp., from M. acuditens. Two previously described species, Annulotrema pikoides Guégan, Lambert and Birgi, 1988 and A. pseudonili Kičinjaová and Řehulková, 2017, were newly recorded from H. vittatus in South Africa. Annulotrema arcum n. sp. and A. caputfemoris n. sp. share similar male copulatory organ morphologies, suggesting a close phylogenetic relationship as sister taxa. Despite weak nodal support, A. strepsiceros n. sp. shows morphological congruence with the former two species, reinforcing their molecular linkage. The present study shows a critical need for the exploration of monopisthocotylean diversity and the paucity of available molecular data of representatives from this group.
A Study on Financial Innovation and Risk Management Methods from an Accounting Perspective
Authors: Wang Yifan
Published: October 2024

With the continuous development of global financial markets and rapid technological advances, a growing number of innovative products and services in the financial sector have emerged, providing new impetus to economic growth but at the same time bringing new risks. We study financial innovation and risk management methods from an accounting perspective, examining how accounting plays a key role in ensuring financial stability and transparency. First, this paper summarizes the definition and classification of financial innovation and analyzes its positive and negative effects on economic development. Second, our main focus is on the fundamental roles of accounting in risk management, which involve supplying financial data for decision-making, overseeing financial innovation and operational risks, and evaluating the efficiency of risk management actions. In addition, this paper discusses the risk management methods from the accounting perspective, such as improving the accuracy and transparency of financial reports, selecting and adjusting prudent accounting policies, strengthening internal control and external audit mechanisms, and improving the accuracy of asset and liability assessment. Enhancing accounting standards and regulatory frameworks to better align with the evolving trends in financial markets is recommended. Furthermore, we will strengthen the professional training of accounting personnel, improve the risk management capabilities of financial institutions, and promote the integration of accounting innovation and financial innovation.
The Application of Generative Artificial Intelligence in Education: Potential, Challenges, and Strategies
Authors: Yao Jianbin
Published: October 2024

In the field of education, the application of generative artificial intelligence is gradually becoming a focus. This article explores the potential, challenges, and coping strategies of generative artificial intelligence in education. Firstly, generative artificial intelligence demonstrates enormous potential in education. It can provide personalized teaching assistance and offer customized learning resources to students through intelligent recommendation systems. Meanwhile, it can also simulate complex situations and assist students in practical operations and problem-solving. In addition, generative artificial intelligence can also perform intelligent evaluations, providing teachers with an analysis of students’ learning progress and effectiveness. However, the application of generative artificial intelligence in education also faces many challenges. Firstly, the immaturity of technology may lead to errors or inaccuracies in the generated content, affecting the quality of teaching. Secondly, excessive reliance on artificial intelligence may weaken the role of teachers and students’ ability to learn independently. In addition, data privacy and security issues are also significant challenges that cannot be ignored. To address these challenges, this article proposes the following strategies: firstly, it is necessary to continuously optimize the technology to ensure the accuracy and reliability of the generated content. Secondly, the government should introduce relevant policies to guide and regulate the application of generative artificial intelligence in education. At the same time, the participation of all sectors of society, including parents, teachers, and students, is necessary to jointly supervise and evaluate the effectiveness of artificial intelligence applications in education. Finally, it is necessary to guide and cultivate the public’s correct understanding and reasonable expectations of generative artificial intelligence from a cultural perspective. In summary, the application of generative artificial intelligence in education is both full of potential and faces challenges. Through technological optimization, policy guidance, social participation, and cultural guidance, the rational and healthy development of the educational environment can be promoted.
Enteric Tube Placement and Management: Tips for Interventional Radiologists
Authors: Mittal Alok K. , Gala Kunal , Hadidi Aymen Al , Vuthaluru Srineil
Published: October 2024

There is a significant risk of malnutrition and aspiration among hospitalized patients, particularly the elderly, patients with head and neck malignancy, and those with a chronic debilitating disease. Enteral feeding is preferred over parenteral feeding for patients with functional gastrointestinal tracts but who have impaired swallowing due to its cost-effectiveness, lesser complications, and theoretical benefits such as preserving mucosal architecture and gut-associated lymphoid tissue. While nasogastric and nasojejunal tubes address short-term feeding needs, long-term enteral feeding tubes are crucial for patients requiring nutritional support beyond 4 weeks. Enteric tube placement can be performed surgically, endoscopically, or radiologically, with radiologically inserted gastrostomy emerging as a safe and effective method. This review article discusses various interventional radiological techniques for enteral feeding, including percutaneous gastrostomy, gastrojejunostomy, jejunostomy tube placement, and gastrointestinal tract decompression procedures like cecostomy. It covers procedural considerations, patient selection criteria, technical aspects, and outcomes, drawing on current evidence and clinical experience. The review also addresses emerging trends, advancements, and future directions in interventional radiology for enteral feeding and gastrointestinal tract decompression, aiming to contribute to the ongoing evolution of clinical practice and patient care. Key recommendations from international guidelines are summarized, emphasizing individualized risk assessment for optimal enteral feeding strategies.
Inorganic nanosheets-based electro-optic devices with single-pixel full-color and gray scale control
Authors: Chen Zhiwei , Zhao Zhigang , Ding Ling , Li Yaowu , Zhang Yanan , Wang Zhenyong , Zhou Jinyu , Wang Ruijia , Gong Wenbin , Fan Zhaochuan , Chen Song , Zhang Xiaohong , Geng Fengxia
Published: October 2024

Developing single-pixel full-color liquid crystal displays (LCDs) that do not require orientation layers and color filters is highly desirable since this would allow to better optimize their image resolution and light utilization efficiency while considerably reducing fabrication cost. However, so far, organic polymers have shown only limited color modulation range and inorganic materials have mostly been limited to on-and-off switches. Here, we report single-pixel full-color modulation along with gray scale control in electrically responsive two-dimensional (2D) inorganic sheets using α-ZrP and Ca2Nb3O10 as our model materials. We demonstrate modulation of transmitted light spanning the entire visible spectrum at an ultralow driving electric field strength (below 10.4 V mm−1), which is one to two orders of magnitude lower than required for conventional organic liquid crystals. We attribute this unusually high performance to the surface charge, the ultra-small thickness, and the large electro-optic anisotropy of the 2D sheets used in this study. To the best of our knowledge, this is the first demonstration of an LCD that efficiently combines gray scale and full-color modulation without the need for color filters or orientation layers. Our work thus opens the door to new types of LCDs and the simplicity of our setup allows its potential integration in various other information and image display systems.
Development and design of a carbon fiber insole intended for individuals with partial foot amputation
Authors: Wagle Chandrika , Malwe Prateek D. , Bhone Nitin P. , Jaiswal Naresh , Patil Chetanraj D. , Fouly Ahmed , Shah Mohd Asif
Published: October 2024

Ankle and foot orthotics are suggested for gait rehabilitation therapy after a stroke. Clinical practice necessitates adjusting the ankle foot orthosis torque to accommodate each patient’s unique stride and body function. The objective of this paper is to develop a customized, cost-effective footplate orthosis from carbon fibers, manufactured using 3D printing, for individuals with partial foot amputations. The footplate is designed for use in developing nations and aimed to be made available with a reduced lead time. The experiment work carried out in this research is used to design, analyze, and validate a prosthetic footplate. A foot of size UK 7 with a 2 mm thick model of the human foot was modeled using Unigraphics-NX. The footplate’s design is being tested both conceptually and empirically. The footplate manufactured by applying load at toe and heel shows that the carbon fiber successfully restores leg length and reduces pressure on the feet’s delicate distal end.
Pneumococcal conjugate vaccines in children
Authors: Jayasinghe Sanjay
Published: October 2024

Pneumococcal conjugate vaccines (PCVs), which have been in population-wide use in children for over two decades now, are highly efficacious in preventing life threatening pneumococcal infections. The strong herd effect of PCVs through reduction in pneumococcal nasopharyngeal carriage in vaccinated children prevents disease in adults as well. Since 7vPCV, which was the first PCV used widely, several new PCVs with each adding more serotypes have been developed. These new PCVs have been approved using immune-bridging criteria based on an aggregate correlate of protection (Cp) derived from vaccine efficacy and antibody responses data from early PCV trials. This Cp that the World Health Organization (WHO) accepts for assessing new PCVs for which it is impracticable to undertake placebo-controlled trials with clinical outcomes is 0.35 μg mL–1 of enzyme-linked immunosorbent assay (ELISA) immunoglobulin G (IgG). Effectiveness and antibody response data more recently of 13vPCV has led to developing Cp for each individual vaccine serotype, that, for some, varies considerably to 0.35 μg mL–1. In trials of newest PCVs, such as 15vPCV and 20vPCV, the comparator used is 13vPCV that has, in turn, been licensed using immune bridging, which leads to potential ‘downward-drift’ risk of protection from the new PCVs. This and the data that have emerged on serotype replacement disease and dosing schedules makes it important to review and rethink how new PCVs are assessed, their clinical benefits are inferred and vaccination programs are designed.
Theory of interacting vector dark energy and fluid
Authors: Pookkillath Masroor C. , Koyama Kazuya
Published: October 2024

In this work, we study interaction between dark energy and dark matter, where dark energy is described by a massive vector field, and dark matter is modelled as a fluid. We present a new interaction term, which affects only perturbations and can give interesting phenomenology. Then we present a general Lagrangian for the interacting vector dark energy with dark matter. For the dark energy, we choose Proca theory with G
3 term to study its phenomenological consequence. For this model, we explore both background and perturbation dynamics. We also present the no-ghost condition for tensor modes, vector modes and scalar modes. Subsequently, we also study the evolution of the overdensities of both baryon and cold dark matter in the high-k limit. We show that the effective gravitational coupling is modified for cold dark matter and baryon. We also choose a simple concrete model and numerically show a suppression of the effective gravitational coupling for cold dark matter. However, in this simple model, the suppression of the effective gravitational coupling does not result in a suppression of the matter overdensity compared to that in the ΛCDM model due to the modified background expansion.
Rapid cargo verification with cosmic ray muon scattering and absorption tomography
Authors: Georgadze Anzori Sh.
Published: October 2024

Cosmic ray muon tomography is considered a promising method
for the non-invasive inspection of shipping containers and
trucks. It utilizes highly penetrating cosmic-ray muons and their
interactions with various materials to generate three-dimensional
images of large and dense materials, like inter-modal shipping
containers, typically not transparent with conventional X-ray
radiography techniques. The commonly used methods for imaging with
muons are based on muon scattering or absorption-transmission data
analysis. Due to large thickness of cargo material in shipping
container substantial scattering and absorption occur when muons are
passing through cargo.

One of the key tasks of customs and border security is to verify
shipping container declarations to prevent illegal trafficking, and
muon tomography could be a viable choice for this task. In this
paper, we demonstrate through Monte Carlo simulations using the
GEANT4 toolkit that a combined analysis of muon scattering and
absorption data can improve the identification of cargo materials
compared to using scattering or absorption data alone. The
statistical differences in scattering and absorption data for
several cargo materials are quantified. For a particular smuggling
scenario where tobacco declared as paper towel rolls, it is
demonstrated that the combined analysis can accurately distinguish
between tobacco and paper towel rolls with 5.5σ accuracy for
detector spatial resolution (FWHM) of 0.235 mm, 4.5σ for
1.175 mm resolution (FWHM), and 3.9σ accuracy for 2.35 mm
spatial resolution (FWHM), in a short scanning time of 10
seconds. This rapid detection capability has significant
implications for anti-smuggling efforts and cargo inspection.
Simulation studies of charging-up effect for single GEMs
Authors: Jiang Jiechen , Jiang Weichun , Jiao Yang , Liu Xiaohua , Du Yuanyuan , Li Hong , Wu Qiong , Liu Xiaojing , Sun Liang , Yang Jiawei , Xu Yupeng , He Huilin , Feng Hua , Liu Congzhan , Chen Hangyu , Song Zipeng , Zhao Yongqi
Published: October 2024

Many experiments revealed a charging-up effect inside the
Gas Electron Multipliers (GEMs) holes, resulting in variation of GEM
effective gain. Charge accumulation on the insulator surface inside
the GEM hole (charge process) is involved in the present simulation
models. With only the charge process in the simulation, a longer and
larger gain stability of GEM was observed while comparing the
charging-up curves to references, even distinct in the relatively
high conductivity of GEM insulator. This observation indicates that
charge transportation within the GEM insulator (discharge process)
is non-negligible; the charging-up stability depends on the dynamic
balance of the charge and discharge process. Therefore, a discharge
model is induced and expressed by a piecewise function based on the
presence of a simulation framework. Charging-up curves are compared
for single GEMs with two different structures under different gain
values and input flux; the trend from simulation with the discharge
process is consistent with those from references. Although the
deviation of simulated charging-up curves is observed at the region
started to be stable, indicating improvements in the discharge
formulation, it can still predict the trend of stability and values
of GEM effective gain. This study improves the present simulation
model of the charging-up effect for single GEMs and provides a
reference for other charging-up models.
Optimal investments in private land conservation depend more on landholder preferences than climate change
Authors: Williams Brooke A , Archibald Carla L , Brazill-Boast James , Drielsma Michael J , Thapa Rajesh , Love Jamie , Cho Frankie H T , Lunney Daniel , Fitzsimons James A , Iftekhar Md Sayed , Villarreal-Rosas Jaramar , Bekessy Sarah , Hetherington Scott Benitez , McAlpine Clive A , Beaumont Linda J , Thonell Jillian , Rhodes Jonathan R
Published: October 2024

Effective private land conservation strategies that consider both landholder preferences and future climatic conditions are critical for preserving biodiversity and ecosystem services. Yet, the interaction and relative importance of these factors for conservation planning performance is unknown. Here, we assess the importance of considering landholder preferences and climate change for prioritising locations for conservation tenders to recruit landholders for conservation covenants. To achieve this we develop a planning framework that accounts for the tender process to optimise investment across regions and apply it to koala-focused tenders in New South Wales, Australia, exploring four planning approaches that consider or are ignorant to landholder preferences or climate change. We find that optimal investments depend more on landholder preferences than climate change, and when landholder preferences are ignored, there is little benefit in accounting for climate change. Our analysis reveals new insights into this important interaction.
Optically tuned soliton dynamics in Bose-Einstein condensates within dark traps
Authors: Célanie Erwan , Delisle Laurent , Jaouadi Amine
Published: October 2024

This study investigates the formation and dynamics of solitons in Bose–Einstein condensates (BECs) within dark traps generated by two crossed Laguerre–Gaussian (LG) beams with varying azimuthal indices

ℓ

. As the index

ℓ

increases, the potential transitions from a harmonic trap when

ℓ
=
1

to a square-well potential for larger values of

ℓ

. This transition allows us to study a range of soliton dynamics under different confinement conditions while maintaining the same BEC volume. Through the derivation of the Gross-Pitaevskii equation (GPE) and under these specific conditions in both one-dimensional and two-dimensional configurations, we explore the dynamics of solitons across multiple scenarios. The study examines two primary methods for solitons generation: the temporal modulation of the scattering length and the implementation of an initial potential barrier that is subsequently removed. The results indicate that the trap shape plays a critical role in the generation and interaction dynamics of solitons. In harmonic traps, solitons exhibit a behavior different from those observed in anharmonic traps, where the dynamics is significantly influenced by the azimuthal index of the trap. The ability to control soliton dynamics in BECs holds significant promise for applications in quantum technologies, precision sensing, and the exploration of fundamental quantum phenomena.
Negative differential resistance of viscous electron flow in graphene
Authors: Estrada-Álvarez Jorge , Díaz Elena , Domínguez-Adame Francisco
Published: October 2024

Negative differential resistance (NDR) devices show a decrease in the voltage drop with increasing current, an advantageous feature for amplifying and oscillating circuits. We introduce a NDR mechanism based on the electron hydrodynamics of two dimensional (2D) materials. An increase of the current in the system favors electron-electron collisions so that a ballistic-hydrodynamic transition takes place and the device resistance is reduced. This phenomenon results in NDR provided that the electron’s mean free path is much longer than the device size. We discuss the strategies towards NDR and find that geometrically engineered devices make it possible to achieve NDR in graphene with

∼

200

nm

sized geometrical features. This NDR mechanism is revealed as a new hydrodynamic signature, particularly relevant in graphene devices for 2D electronics and high-frequency operation.
Achieving precise graphenization of diamond coatings below the interfacial thermal stress threshold
Authors: Yan Bo , He Ning , Chen Ni , Weigold Matthias , Chen Huiwen , Sun Shuchen , Wu Yang , Fu Shiyang , Li Liang , Abele Eberhard
Published: October 2024

Diamond coatings possess numerous excellent properties, making them desirable materials for high-performance surface applications. However, without a revolutionary surface modification method, the surface roughness and friction behavior of diamond coatings can impede their ability to meet the demanding requirements of advanced engineering surfaces. This study proposed the thermal stress control at coating interfaces and demonstrated a novel process of precise graphenization on conventional diamond coatings surface through laser induction and mechanical cleavage, without causing damage to the metal substrate. Through experiments and simulations, the influence mechanism of surface graphitization and interfacial thermal stress was elucidated, ultimately enabling rapid conversion of the diamond coating surface to graphene while controlling the coating’s thickness and roughness. Compared to the original diamond coatings, the obtained surfaces exhibited a 63%–72% reduction in friction coefficients, all of which were below 0.1, with a minimum of 0.06, and a 59%–67% decrease in specific wear rates. Moreover, adhesive wear in the friction counterpart was significantly inhibited, resulting in a reduction in wear by 49%–83%. This demonstrated a significant improvement in lubrication and inhibition of mechanochemical wear properties. This study provides an effective and cost-efficient avenue to overcome the application bottleneck of engineered diamond surfaces, with the potential to significantly enhance the performance and expand the application range of diamond-coated components.
Cyber attacks detection and mitigation in hybrid power system using type-2 fuzzy controller
Authors: Dundi Jesraj Tataji , Appikonda Padmaja , Rama Sudha Kasibhatla , Anguru Jeevan Sai , Burlagadda Surya Venu Teja
Published: October 2024

This paper presents a novel control technique using Fuzzy Type-2 controller for regulating the frequency deviations in an independent Hybrid Power System (HPS). The HPS comprises of a wind system and a solar photovoltaic (PV) system as primary energy sources, along with Fuel Cells (FCs) as additional generation systems and Double Layer Capacitor (DLC) Banks as storage devices to meet the load demand. The frequency variations occur in the HPS due to the intermittency in power outputs from the primary sources, the load changes as well as any attacks in the system. The frequency regulation is achieved by effective coordination control of FC and DLC with the aid of a Fuzzy Type-2 controller and a high pass filter (HPF). The DLC technology adequately satisfies the residual power of hybrid systems resulting from the slow dynamics of FCs. The Fuzzy Type-2 controller is trained using an input-output data set of a PID controller whose gains are tuned to their optimal values using Monte-Carlo state estimators. The proposed system is simulated using real weather data to validate the capability of the Hybrid Power System (HPS) in supplying isolated loads while maintaining power frequency balance conditions. Also the HPS is subjected to attacks in daily load variation and the results are compared with the system without attacks. The simulation results show that the peak over shoots are reduced considerably but the settling time is 0.2 s in the system with no attacks where as the settling time is prolonged to 1.2 s with the attacks. This paper demonstrates the effectiveness of the Fuzzy Type-2 controller for the coordination control of DLC and FC to achieve generation-load balance condition in comparison with that of the PID controller for HPS system with and without attacks.
Introduction
Authors: O'Connor Niall
Published: October 2024

This introductory chapter sets the scene for the book’s exploration of the constitutional and social dimensions of the freedom to conduct a business as a fundamental right, notably as manifested through freedom of contract. The working definitions of ‘constitutionalization’ and ‘social rights’ are set out, before explaining how the ‘socialization’ of the freedom to conduct a business will be assessed against the regulatory backdrop of the employment relationship, a field which is characterized by the tension between competing economic and social rights, interests, and values. In so doing, this chapter articulates the book’s overarching purpose in offering a reconstructive account of the freedom to conduct a business as a fundamental right in relation to its constitutional and social (rights) functions.
Conclusion
Authors: O'Connor Niall
Published: October 2024

The purpose of this concluding chapter is to tie together the book’s elaboration of the interrelated constitutional and social dimensions of the freedom to conduct a business as a fundamental right within European Union law. Particular attention is placed in this chapter on the potential limitations of the book’s proposed reconceptualization of the freedom to conduct a business, including freedom of contract in relation to competing social rights. Most notably, the emphasis placed on the ‘right to work’ as an emanation of a socialized form of freedom of contract in the employment sphere might impede the application of the proposed constitutional and social re-orientation of business freedoms within other regulatory fields such as consumer protection. Further avenues for potential future research are then set out, including the potential exploration of the themes of this book at national level.
Brain health is essential for smooth economic transitions: towards socio-economic sustainability, productivity and well-being
Authors: Nail-Beatty Olivia , Ibanez Agustin , Ayadi Rym , Swieboda Pawel , Njamnshi Alfred K , Occhipinti Jo-An , Hynes William , Ikiz Burcin , Castro-Aldrete Laura , O’Brien Kelly , Platt Michael L , Adalat Shazia , Abdullah Jafri Malin , Dhamija Rajinder K , Merali Zul , Mostert Cyprian , Beck Debbie , Saxena Shekhar , Salama Mohamed , Abdelraheem Omnia M , Destrebecq Frederic , Slavich George M , Shehu Bello , Fieggen Graham , Ghogomu Paul M , Bassetti Claudio L A , Eyre Harris A
Published: October 2024

Optimal brain health is essential to smoothing major global skill-intensive economic transitions, such as the bioeconomy, green, care economy and digital transitions. Good brain health is vital to socio-economic sustainability, productivity and well-being. The care transition focuses on recognizing and investing in care services and care work as essential for economic growth and social well-being. The green transition involves shifting towards environmentally sustainable and fairer societies to combat climate change and environmental degradation. The digital transition aims to unlock digital growth potential and deploy innovative solutions for businesses and citizens, and to improve the accessibility and efficiency of services. The bioeconomy transition refers to the shift towards an economy based on products, services and processes derived from biological resources, such as plants and microorganisms. Brain capital, which encompasses brain health and brain skills, is a critical economic asset for the success of economies of the future. The brain economy transition from a brain-negative (brain-unhealthy) economy, which depletes brain capital, to a brain-positive (brain-healthy) economy, which arrests and reverses the loss of brain capital, will be foundational to these major transitions. Increased brain capital is vital to educational attainment, upskilling and reskilling. In this paper, we provide a detailed roadmap for the brain economy transition.
Effect of the cobalt addition on benzene oxidation of supported MnOx nanocluster catalysts
Authors: Araki Tomonori , Devred François , Gaigneaux Eric M , Hara Takayoshi , Ichikuni Nobuyuki
Published: October 2024

By varying the precursor ratios, cobalt doped manganese oxide nanocluster catalysts with different cobalt contents were prepared using the colloidal method. Catalysts were applied to a gas phase benzene oxidation reaction. Among them, the catalyst with a Mn:Co ratio of 90:10 showed the highest conversion. The addition of cobalt changing the valence of manganese was observed by XANES analysis, and that is thought to be the reason for the high activity.