bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Comparison of Different FWM Realization Methods in Optical Fibre
Authors: Supe A. , Porins J.
Published: December 2011

This paper describes detailed study in optical fibre nonlinear phenomenon - four wave mixing (FWM). It includes explanation of physical reason and realisation methods in optical fibres. Comparison of two generation schemes in terms of realizing FWM process in optical fibres has given. Results between theoretical calculations and simulation results by OptSim 5.0 software show that FWM interaction intensity is almost invariable for wavelength separation between incident waves till Dl=0.8 nm. But for larger wavelength separation it sharply decrease. Ill. 9, bibl. 6 (in English; abstracts in English and Lithuanian).http://dx.doi.org/10.5755/j01.eee.111.5.352
Stability Analysis of Control Systems with the Asymmetric Controllers using Frequency Domain Criterion
Authors: Zlosnikas V. , Baskys A. , Gobis V.
Published: December 2011

The stability of control systems with the linear plants using asymmetric Proportional and Proportional-asymmetric Integral controllers is analyzed in this work. The methods of nonlinear systems stability analysis based on the frequency domain criterion proposed by Popov and modified by the Cho and Narendra were employed. They are dedicated for the systems with the one nonlinear element. The investigation has been performed using Off-Axis and Circle criterions by employing graphical-analytical analysis methods, which were realized using software Mathcad. The obtained analysis results were verified using dynamic systems simulation software Matlab/Simulink. Ill. 6, bibl. 13 (in English; abstracts in English and Lithuanian).http://dx.doi.org/10.5755/j01.eee.111.5.358
Comparison of Orthogonal Transforms for OFDM Communication System
Authors: Aboltins A.
Published: December 2011

Classical orthogonal frequency division (OFDM) employs fast Fourier transform (FFT) for elimination of inter-symbol interference (ISI) and expansion of time support of the transmitted signals. However FFT could not always be optimal in terms bit error ratio (BER) due channel variations, Doppler Effect, nonlinearities and high peak-to-average power ratio of the signal. Aim of this publication is to experimentally compare different orthogonal transforms and outline impact of these transforms on BER of the communication system with noisy, frequency selective and nonlinear communication channels. Simulation results of OFDM communication systems with equalization and no transform, with FFT, Hadamard and Generalized nonsinusoidal orthogonal transforms are presented. Ill. 5, bibl. 9, tabl. 1 (in English; abstracts in English and Lithuanian).http://dx.doi.org/10.5755/j01.eee.111.5.361
Translingual Visemes Mapping for Lithuanian Speech Animation
Authors: Mazonaviciute I. , Bausys R.
Published: December 2011

Methodology of Lithuanian phonemes visualization using visemes set of the base language appended by new visemes defined to animate specific Lithuanian phonemes is proposed. Translingual visemes mapping for Lithuanian speech animation is applied. Phoneme to viseme mapping module is one of the most important parts of the framework for Lithuanian speech animation. Facial animation engine compatible with MPEG-4 standard is used to integrate data flows. The base language of the exploited engine is English and the proposed architecture explains how it can be driven by Lithuanian phonetics to get samples of animated Lithuanian speech. Translingual phoneme to viseme mapping module offered in this paper is suitable to animate foreign languages. Ill. 2, bibl. 14, tabl. 1 (in English; abstracts in English and Lithuanian).http://dx.doi.org/10.5755/j01.eee.111.5.365
Peculiarities of Wiener Class Systems and their Exploitation for Speech Signal Prediction
Authors: Ivanovas E. , Navakauskas D.
Published: December 2011

In this paper Wiener class system consisting of infinite impulse response dynamic subsystem and sigmoid nonlinearity is employed for speech modelling. The experiments on Lithuanian vowel "ū" with different initial phase of the signal are done. The average of mean square errors of prediction with the Wiener system model are smaller approximately by 18 % for the training dataset, 17 % for the validation dataset and 14 % for the testing dataset in comparison to Linear Prediction Coding model. Additional experiments with 6 different Lithuanian vowels on average showed more than 13 % improvement in MSE of prediction with the Wiener system model. Moreover, the use of Wiener system instead of IIR model showed improvement in MSE of long-term prediction for five Lithuanian vowels on average by more than 5 %. Application of results in telecommunication systems could possibly decrease data transfer rates, increase speech intelligibility and naturalness of speech synthesis. Ill. 5, bibl. 8, tabl. 2 (in English; abstracts in English and Lithuanian).http://dx.doi.org/10.5755/j01.eee.111.5.368
Model of Multiphase Induction Motor
Authors: Kundrotas B. , Lisauskas S. , Rinkeviciene R.
Published: December 2011

The six-phase induction motor with two similar stator three phase windings, shifted by 30 degrees in space and three phase winding in rotor is considered. Differential equations of this motor are presented and transformed to dq synchronous reference frame. Dynamic equivalent circuits for each component are presented. Transformed equations are expressed in matrix form and are solved by MATLAB software using Dormand-Prince (ode45) method. Transient characteristics of torque, speed and current of six-phase induction motor are calculated and discussed. Ill. 6, bibl. 12, tabl. 1 (in English; abstracts in English and Lithuanian).http://dx.doi.org/10.5755/j01.eee.111.5.369
Performance Comparison of Methods for Tree Species Classification in Multispectral Images
Authors: Dinuls R. , Lorencs A. , Mednieks I.
Published: December 2011

A number of methods for classification of individual trees in high resolution multispectral images have been developed. The paper provides comparative analysis of some practicable methods of such type. Classification accuracy into 5 species was tested by computer simulations with real multispectral data obtained using airborne hyperspectral sensor. Coordinates and species of individual trees were supplied for testing by field work. It is shown that classification accuracy better than 97 % can be reached by more sophisticated methods in favorable conditions. Presented results can be used to choose a classification method appropriate for the particular forest inventory task. Ill. 1, bibl. 7 (in English; abstracts in English and Lithuanian).http://dx.doi.org/10.5755/j01.eee.111.5.371
Experimental Determination of Computed Tomography Settings for Jaw Scanning
Authors: Adaskevicius R. , Macianskytė D. , Monastyreckiene E.
Published: December 2011

Aim of our study is to develop a method for the experimental identification of the settings of a computed tomography (CT) scanner used for scanning of human jaw. I this case, CT can be used for rapid prototyping of human jaw, design and manufacture of implants. The experimental identification of settings of a computed tomography scanner is done by comparing 3D computer models built using different data acquisition technologies: CT scanner and 3D laser scanner. The modified Iterative Closest Points algorithm is used for alignment of 3D computer models, obtained using different scanning methods. The different test objects were scanned using a spiral CT scanner and 3D laser scanner for testing the method. 3D computer models were compared uding the mean square value of distance between two surfaces. The test results indicate hardware and software parameters impacting on the accuracy and surface quality of 3D computer model reconstructed from CT data. Ill. 5, bibl. 7 (in English; abstracts in English and Lithuanian).http://dx.doi.org/10.5755/j01.eee.111.5.373
Decisions in the Evolution of Contemporary Public Governance
Authors: Buškevičiūtė Jolanta , Raipa Alvydas
Published: December 2011

The article analyses the relationship between decision making and structural changes of New Public Governance. The authors emphasize that in the process of evolution of public governance, the effectiveness of preparation and implementation of decisions is a very complex, multi-dimensional issue. Its success is based on the entirety of elements and factors of both internal and external environments. Specific attention is given to application of meta-analysis, theoretical simulation, analog and other methods in analysis of decision-making external environment. It is proved that qualitative parameters of contemporary decisions in public sector are directly dependent on the pace of Public Governance evolution in establishment of new, more effective, innovative and democratic principles and methods of public sector governance.http://dx.doi.org/10.5755/j01.ppaa.10.1.225
Public Governance Concepts and their Use in Civil Service Reform Research
Authors: Pivoras Saulius , Visockytė Ernesta
Published: December 2011

In the context of traditional public administration, there is a concept known as "good admi-nistration". Good administration is understood primarily as a professional and ethical civil ser-vants' activity. However, "good administration" is more of a subject of public or administrative law, which shows an important but relatively narrow aspect of public governance. The aim of this article is to analyze the latest concepts of public governance and to evaluate their adaptability in analysis of civil service reforms. Such adaptability is relevant because the concepts of public governance reveal the most important attitudes of contemporary public administration, primarily in a normative sense. The aim of the article is met by analyzing the latest scientific literature on public governance, evaluating the place and weight of good governance and participatory governance in the concepts of public governance, and discussing the concepts of good governance developed by international organizations. After highlighting the major features and characteristics of the concepts of public governance, the article analyses their adaptability in analysis of civil service reforms.http://dx.doi.org/10.5755/j01.ppaa.10.1.226
Integrity Agencies as One Pillar of Integrity and Good Governance
Authors: Aulich Chris
Published: December 2011

This article argues the case that integrity in public agencies is best served through the development of a system of arrangements involving laws, policies, protocols and institutional design that, in total, operate in harmony to generate a cul-ture of integrity. A critical element in this system of integrity is the formation and op-eration of specialised integrity agencies, which work with parliaments and civil services to create a means through which public concerns about integrity can be inde-pendently examined and reported. The article recognises the balancing that is re-quired between agency autonomy andparliamentary control and warns that arrangements must be capable of dealing with the complexities that follow from these special-ised integrity agencies operating in a dynamic environment.http://dx.doi.org/10.5755/j01.ppaa.10.1.227
The Fight against Trading in Influence
Authors: Slingerland Willeke
Published: December 2011

This article explains how considering the systemic character of influence market corruption can help the Council of Europe and its Member States in their fight against trading in influence. By applying article 12 of the Council of Europe's Criminal Convention on Corruption on two recent cases in the Netherlands and France, it is being tested whether the provision provides an effective solution for scrutinising the trading in influence phenomenon. Both cases provide an example of the trading in influence phe-nomenon, which is symptomatic in western influence markets and which has implications far greater than the ones immediately apparent.http://dx.doi.org/10.5755/j01.ppaa.10.1.228
Aspects of Legal Regulation and Implementation of Public Administration Students' Internships in Lithuania
Authors: Juralevičienė Jolanta , Palidauskaitė Jolanta
Published: December 2011

Article concentrates on students' internships, which provide them with a possibility to apply theoretical knowledge in practice. The purpose of the paper is to analyze and evaluate the legal aspects of internship organized for Public Administration (PA) programme students and their practical application in Lithuania. The analysis of internship regulations in 5 universities, having PA Bachelor's programme, allows distinguishing a number of similarities and differ-rences. The analysis of legal acts, universities' internal regulations and students' internship regulations of several Lithuanian study programmes in Public Administration indicates the lack of unified students' internship system. The authors provide several ideas how this topic can be elaborated in the future.http://dx.doi.org/10.5755/j01.ppaa.10.1.231
More Efficient Use of the Material Basis of Local Government: the Introduction of Concession Relations
Authors: Mamonova Valentyna , Olshansky Aleksandr
Published: December 2011

The aim of this paper is to generalize the results of the study, which concerns the func-tioning of communal property in Ukraine and support for the implementation of concession relations in the management of communal property rights of territorial communities. Relevance of the subject is conditioned by the need to improve the efficiency of municipal companies to best meet the needs of territorial community members for the respective services. Both the ne-cessity and possibility to introduce concessionary relations in communal property rights management, the basic conditions of the concession contract using the example of municipal enterprise "Severodonetskvodokanal" are defined in the article as well.http://dx.doi.org/10.5755/j01.ppaa.10.1.232
Analysis of Public Servants' Working in Municipality Administration Motivation Research
Authors: Palidauskaitė Jolanta , Vaisvalavičiutė Aušra
Published: December 2011

The aim of the article is to reveal the results of research of Lithuanian public servants motivation, which was conducted in early 2010 as an integral part of public servants motivation research conducted in 12 countries. The results of the research revealed, that a larger part of respondents were minded to participate in public life, sympathized to others and were prepared to sacrifice for them and welfare of the society. Not all respondents were certain, that the main purpose of their activity was serving for the good of the society. Goodwill, sympathy, a wish to help needy people, aspiration for justice were not strange to respondents, but they were not ready to suffer individual losses for this. Younger respondents and those whose work experience in public service was short, were less ready to compassionate others or to sacrifice for them. Although new methods and means (absorbed form the private sector) are applied in the public sector, the great responsibility, the duty to care for welfare of all society and public interest cannot be forgotten. These factors must be taken into account in the processes of public servants training and their socialization at work place.http://dx.doi.org/10.5755/j01.ppaa.10.1.234
Comparative Aspects of Police Education and Training Systems in European Countries
Authors: Vitkauskas Kęstutis
Published: December 2011

The article analyses police preparation systems in different European countries considering European Union perspectives to establish a common system for education and training of the police. The first part of the article discusses the differences of police preparation systems models in European countries and the arguments regarding relationships among professional preparation and academic education in a common police preparation system. The author of the article comes to a conclusion that for modern police officers it is not enough to get only the professional education, to formulate special skills, but they also need an additional college or a university degree. The second part of the article introduces and discusses factors making influence to the police preparation systems in different European countries. The author comes to the conclusion, that historically different conditions of development, geopolitical and cultural factors in European countries created huge diversity of police preparation systems, which means that in order to make them closer there is a need for a deeper analysis of police structures and their preparation systems at a national level.http://dx.doi.org/10.5755/j01.ppaa.10.1.235
Skin Manifestations of VEXAS Syndrome and Associated Genotypes
Authors: Tan Isabella J. , Ferrada Marcela A. , Ahmad Serene , Fike Alice , Quinn Kaitlin A. , Groarke Emma M. , Beck David B. , Allbritton Jill , Castelo-Soccio Leslie , Young Neal S. , Patel Bhavisha A. , Grayson Peter C. , Cowen Edward W.
Published: June 2024

Importance

VEXAS (vacuoles, E1 enzyme, X-linked, autoinflammatory, somatic) syndrome is a newly defined genetic disease with an estimated prevalence of 1 in 4269 men older than 50 years and is marked by systemic inflammation, progressive bone marrow failure, and inflammatory cutaneous manifestations.

Objective

To define the spectrum of cutaneous manifestations in VEXAS syndrome and the association of these findings with clinical, genetic, and histological features.

Design, Setting, and Participants

This observational cohort study included data from 112 patients who were diagnosed with VEXAS-defining genetic variants in UBA1 between 2019 and 2023. Data were collected from medical record review or from patients with VEXAS directly evaluated at the National Institutes of Health in Bethesda, Maryland.

Main Outcomes and Measures

To define the spectrum of cutaneous manifestations in VEXAS in association with genetic, histological, and other clinical findings. A secondary outcome was cutaneous response to treatment in VEXAS.

Results

Among the 112 patients (median [range] age, 69 [39-79] years; 111 [99%] male), skin involvement was common (93 [83%]), and the most frequent presenting feature of disease (68 [61%]). Of 64 histopathologic reports available from 60 patients, predominant skin histopathologic findings were leukocytoclastic vasculitis (23 [36%]), neutrophilic dermatosis (22 [34%]), and perivascular dermatitis (19 [30%]). Distinct pathogenic genetic variants were associated with specific cutaneous manifestations. The p.Met41Leu variant was most frequently associated with neutrophilic dermal infiltrates (14 of 17 patients [82%]), often resembling histiocytoid Sweet syndrome. In contrast, the p.Met41Val variant was associated with vasculitic lesions (11 of 20 patients [55%]) with a mixed leukocytic infiltrate (17 of 20 patients [85%]). Oral prednisone improved skin manifestations in 67 of 73 patients (92%). Patients with VEXAS treated with anakinra frequently developed severe injection-site reactions (12 of 16 [75%]), including ulceration (2 of 12 [17%]) and abscess formation (1 of 12 [8%]).

Conclusions and Relevance

Results of this cohort study show that skin manifestations are a common and early manifestation of VEXAS syndrome. Genetic evaluation for VEXAS should be considered in older male patients with cutaneous vasculitis, neutrophilic dermatoses, or chondritis. Awareness of VEXAS among dermatologists is critical to facilitate early diagnosis.
Integrative Modeling of Accelerometry-Derived Sleep, Physical Activity, and Circadian Rhythm Domains With Current or Remitted Major Depression
Authors: Kang Sun Jung , Leroux Andrew , Guo Wei , Dey Debangan , Strippoli Marie-Pierre F. , Di Junrui , Vaucher Julien , Marques-Vidal Pedro , Vollenweider Peter , Preisig Martin , Merikangas Kathleen R. , Zipunnikov Vadim
Published: June 2024

Importance

Accelerometry has been increasingly used as an objective index of sleep, physical activity, and circadian rhythms in people with mood disorders. However, most prior research has focused on sleep or physical activity alone without consideration of the strong within- and cross-domain intercorrelations; and few studies have distinguished between trait and state profiles of accelerometry domains in major depressive disorder (MDD).

Objectives

To identify joint and individual components of the domains derived from accelerometry, including sleep, physical activity, and circadian rhythmicity using the Joint and Individual Variation Explained method (JIVE), a novel multimodal integrative dimension-reduction technique; and to examine associations between joint and individual components with current and remitted MDD.

Design, Setting, and Participants

This cross-sectional study examined data from the second wave of a population cohort study from Lausanne, Switzerland. Participants included 2317 adults (1164 without MDD, 185 with current MDD, and 968 with remitted MDD) with accelerometry for at least 7 days. Statistical analysis was conducted from January 2021 to June 2023.

Main Outcomes and Measures

Features derived from accelerometry for 14 days; current and remitted MDD. Logistic regression adjusted for age, sex, body mass index, and anxiety and substance use disorders.

Results

Among 2317 adults included in the study, 1261 (54.42%) were female, and mean (SD) age was 61.79 (9.97) years. JIVE reduced 28 accelerometry features to 3 joint and 6 individual components (1 sleep, 2 physical activity, 3 circadian rhythms). Joint components explained 58.5%, 79.5%, 54.5% of the total variation in sleep, physical activity, and circadian rhythm domains, respectively. Both current and remitted depression were associated with the first 2 joint components that were distinguished by the salience of high-intensity physical activity and amplitude of circadian rhythm and timing of both sleep and physical activity, respectively. MDD had significantly weaker circadian rhythmicity.

Conclusions and Relevance

Application of a novel multimodal dimension-reduction technique demonstrates the importance of joint influences of physical activity, circadian rhythms, and timing of both sleep and physical activity with MDD; dampened circadian rhythmicity may constitute a trait marker for MDD. This work illustrates the value of accelerometry as a potential biomarker for subtypes of depression and highlights the importance of consideration of the full 24-hour sleep-wake cycle in future studies.
On the Origin of Recovery‐Induced Strengthening in CoCrNi Alloy
Authors: Singh Vivek Kumar , Jeevanaboina Krishna , Sahu Sandhyarani , Bojjawar Girish , Dova Kalyan , Agarwal Shavi , Suwas Satyam , Makineni Surendra Kumar , Ghosh Pradipta
Published: June 2024

Strengthening during low‐temperature annealing is a common observation in several nanocrystalline and ultrafine‐grained materials. The origin of such strengthening is generally attributed to various recovery processes leading to restricted dislocation motion. Herein, the observations on recovery‐induced strengthening in cold‐rolled (CR) equiatomic CoCrNi alloys are presented. An increase in hardness is observed for samples deformed to thickness reduction of 35–80% after 2 h of annealing at 500 °C. A detailed microstructural investigation of 80% CR and subsequently annealed samples suggests that both dislocation density and local chemical composition play important role in strengthening. Further, uniaxial tensile tests elucidate the importance of mobile dislocations on strength and ductility of annealed samples.
Misconception of the Use of 2D Plane Stress Solutions for Free Surfaces of Cracked Bodies and Its Significance for Full Field Measurement Techniques
Authors: Vojtek Tomáš , Kubíček Radek , Pokorný Pavel , Hutař Pavel
Published: June 2024

Although 2D fracture mechanics solutions have been successfully applied, many analyses are affected by the wrong presumption of the 2D plane stress state at the free surface intersected by a crack front. The significance of this presumption and the related confusion have grown rapidly with the progress of strain field measurement techniques, such as the digital image correlation. The article demonstrates this wrong presumption on two of the most commonly measured and studied entities, which are the plastic zone in front of the crack tip and the crack tip opening displacement. 3D stress and strain solution is necessary to be performed. A realistic crack front curvature is required to be considered. Only such solutions can be used for comparison with the experimentally obtained strain fields. Other solutions are wrong and can bring confusion, wrong conclusions about material behavior, and slow down the progress in the field of fracture mechanics due to the incompatibility of the presumed stress state and the stress state present in experiments.
Improved Hole‐Selective Contact Enables Highly Efficient and Stable FAPbBr3 Perovskite Solar Cells and Semitransparent Modules
Authors: Zhu Helong , Xu Zigeng , Zhang Zhiyang , Lian Shuang , Wu Yanjie , Zhang Dezhong , Zhan Hongmei , Wang Lixiang , Han Liyuan , Qin Chuanjiang
Published: June 2024

Self‐assembled monolayers (SAMs) as the hole‐selective contact have achieved remarkable success in iodine‐based perovskite solar cells (PSCs), while their impact on bromine‐based PSCs is limited due to the poor perovskite crystallization behavior and mismatched energy level alignment. Here, a highly efficient SAM of (2‐(3,6‐diiodo‐9H‐carbazol‐9‐yl)ethyl)phosphonic acid (I‐2PACz) is employed to address these challenges in FAPbBr3‐based PSCs. The incorporation of I atoms into I‐2PACz not only releases tensile stress within FAPbBr3 perovskite, promoting oriented crystallization and minimizing defects through halogen‐halogen bond, but also optimizes the energy levels alignment at hole‐selective interface for enhanced hole extraction. Ultimately, a power conversion efficiency (PCE) of 11.14% is achieved, which stands among the highest reported value for FAPbBr3 PSCs. Furthermore, the semitransparent devices/modules exhibit impressive PCEs of 8.19% and 6.23% with average visible transmittance of 41.98% and 38.99%. Remarkably, after operating at maximum power point for 1000 h, the encapsulated device maintains 93% of its initial PCE. These results demonstrate an effective strategy for achieving high‐performance bromine‐based PSCs toward further applications.
Early impacts of cover crop selection on soil biological parameters during a transition to organic agriculture
Authors: Ellman‐Stortz Leah , Lewis Katie , Gentry Terry , DeLaune Paul , Pierson Elizabeth , Boogades Nicholas
Published: June 2024

Although Texas is not widely known for organic production, it is responsible for most organic peanut production in the United States. When managed effectively, this can be a lucrative practice due to consumer demands. However, farmers pursuing organic management must undergo a 3‐year transition period to obtain United States Department of Agriculture certification, which is often associated with depressed yields. The objective of this study was to measure the impact of organic management and cover crop selection on biological indicators of soil health during the second year of transitioning to an organic cotton–peanut rotation in West Texas. We conducted a field study at two locations, and soil health indicators including in situ respiration, carbon mineralization, enzyme activities, and phospholipid fatty acids (PLFAs) were measured. The use of a cover crop resulted in generally greater biological activities compared to the fallow after only one cover crop rotation, representing early elevated biological activities under plots treated with a cover crop. However, cover crop species selection typically does not affect soil biological parameters. Cover crop use also did not contribute to yield losses when compared to a fallow treatment. When comparing organic management to conventional management, both sites experienced elevated PLFA counts under organic management. Importantly, results indicated that although reduced peanut yields could be expected under transitional organic management, this was not cover crop species‐specific, nor was it a guarantee. Given the economic risk of organic management for farmers, this study will benefit producers deciding whether to pursue organic production and cover cropping.
Silver‐Catalyzed Decarboxylative Radical Cyclizations: Developments and Insights
Authors: Das Suven , Dutta Arpita
Published: June 2024

Transition‐metal‐catalyzed decarboxylative cross‐coupling reaction provides a powerful method for the construction C−C, C−N, C−O bonds, which have great impact on synthetic chemistry. The use of silver salts as catalyst in decarboxylative reaction gradually increases because of their easy availability, low toxicity, biocompatibility and adequate stability. In fact, various radical cyclization reactions have been accomplished by exploiting single electron transfer (SET) ability of silver salts. The present review highlights recent advances (2015‐mid 2023) in the silver‐catalyzed decarboxylative radical cyclizations for the construction of cyclic molecular scaffolds. The content of the review is organized on the basis of decarboxylative reagents, such as, α‐keto acids, aliphatic/aromatic carboxylic acids, α,α‐difluoroacetic acids, amino acids, alkynyl carboxylic acids, oxamic acids and miscellaneous acids. Additionally, mechanistic insights of most of the reactions are highlighted for well understanding of the reaction mode.
Diabetes accelerates Alzheimer's disease progression in the first year post mild cognitive impairment diagnosis
Authors: Ding Xiahao , Yin Li , Zhang Lin , Zhang Yang , Zha Tianming , Zhang Wen , Gui Bo ,   Alzheimer's Disease Neuroimaging Initiative
Published: June 2024

BACKGROUND

Mild cognitive impairment (MCI) heightens Alzheimer's disease (AD) risk, with diabetes mellitus (DM) potentially exacerbating this vulnerability. This study identifies the optimal intervention period and neurobiological targets in MCI to AD progression using the Alzheimer's Disease Neuroimaging Initiative dataset.

METHODS

Analysis of 980 MCI patients, categorized by DM status, used propensity score matching and inverse probability treatment weighting to assess rate of conversion from MCI to AD, neuroimaging, and cognitive changes.

RESULTS

DM significantly correlates with cognitive decline and an increased risk of progressing to AD, especially within the first year of MCI follow‐up. It adversely affects specific brain structures, notably accelerating nucleus accumbens atrophy, decreasing gray matter volume and sulcal depth.

DISCUSSION

Findings suggest the first year after MCI diagnosis as the critical window for intervention. DM accelerates MCI‐to‐AD progression, targeting specific brain areas, underscoring the need for early therapeutic intervention.

Highlights

Diabetes mellitus (DM) accelerates mild cognitive impairment (MCI)‐to‐Alzheimer's disease (AD) progression within the first year after MCI diagnosis.

DM leads to sharper cognitive decline within 12 months of follow‐up.

There is notable nucleus accumbens atrophy observed in MCI patients with DM.

DM causes significant reductions in gray matter volume and sulcal depth.

There are stronger correlations between cognitive decline and brain changes due to DM.
Light and Guest Responsive Behavior in a Porous Coordination Network Enabled by Reversible [2+2] Photocycloaddition
Authors: Gao Mei‐Yan , Liu Lunjie , Deng Chenghua , Bon Volodymyr , Song Bai‐Qiao , Yang Sihai , Schröder Martin , Kaskel Stefan , Zaworotko Michael J.
Published: June 2024

Stimuli‐responsive physisorbents that undergo reversible structural transformations induced by external stimuli (e.g. light, guests, or heat) offer the promise of utility in gas storage and separation. Whereas reports on guest or light‐responsive sorbents have increased in recent years, we are unaware of reports on sorbents that exhibit both light and guest‐induced structural transformations. Herein, we report that the square lattice, sql, topology coordination network Zn(fba)(bis) ⋅ 2DMF (sql‐5,6‐Zn‐α, 5=trans‐4,4′‐bis(1‐imidazolyl)stilbene=bis, 6=2,2‐bis(4‐carboxyphenyl)hexafluoropropane=H2fba) underwent single‐crystal‐to‐single‐crystal transformation (SCSC) upon activation, affording nonporous sql‐5,6‐Zn‐β. Parallel alignment at 3.23 Å of olefinic moieties on adjacent bis ligands in sql‐5,6‐Zn‐α enabled SCSC [2+2] photocycloaddition upon exposure to UV light (365 nm) or sunlight. sql‐5,6‐Zn‐α thereby transformed to mot‐5,6‐Zn‐α, which was subsequently activated to the narrow pore phase mot‐5,6‐Zn‐β. sql‐5,6‐Zn‐β and mot‐5,6‐Zn‐β both exhibited S‐shaped adsorption isotherms characteristic of guest‐induced structural changes when exposed to CO2 at 195 K (type‐F–IV and type F–I, respectively). Cycling experiments conducted upon sql‐5,6‐Zn‐β reduced particle size after cycle 1 and induced transformation into a rare example of a shape memory coordination network, sql‐5,6‐Zn‐γ. Insight into this smorgasbord of SCSC phase changes was gained from in situ PXRD, single crystal XRD and 1H NMR spectroscopy experiments.
Synthetic route for O,S‐coordinated organotin (IV) aldehydes: Spectroscopic, computational, XRD, and antibacterial studies
Authors: Iftikhar Suman , Hussain Shabbir , Murtaza Shahzad , Ali Danish , Yousuf Sammer , Ali Muhammad Arif , Haider Ali , Shahid Muhammad , Alsuhaibani Amnah Mohammed , Refat Moamen Salaheldeen
Published: June 2024

Numerous synthetic routes have been established for the synthesis of organotin (IV) derivatives of carboxylates, thiocarbamates, thiols, alcohols, amines, Schiff bases, etc. However, no synthetic path has been still developed for the synthesis of organotin (IV) aldehydes. We have synthesized four O,S‐coordinated organotin (IV) aldehydes (1–4) of the general formulas LSn(S)(Cl)R2 (where R2 = Me2, n‐Bu2, Ph2 for 1–3, respectively) and LSn(S)Ph3 (4) by reaction of 4‐(dimethylamino)benzaldehyde (L) with KOH, CS2, and R2SnCl2/Ph3SnCl in methanol. The synthesized products were characterized by microanalysis (CHN), FT‐IR analysis, UV–visible spectroscopy, NMR spectroscopy (1H and 13C), thermogravimetric analysis (TGA), computational studies, and single‐crystal XRD. Elemental analysis data were agreed well with the molecular composition of the products. FT‐IR spectroscopy has shown a significant lowering of C=O vibrational frequency after ligand–metal coordination. The electronic spectroscopy of complexes 1–4 demonstrated the π–π* (342–343 nm) and n–π* (279–296 nm) transitions, with the band gap values of 3.15–3.38 eV. 1H NMR spectra displayed distinct signals for the ligand skeleton and organotin (IV) moieties. 13C NMR spectroscopy exhibited an upfield shift of carbonyl oxygen after ligand–metal coordination. The thermogravimetric analysis revealed the thermal stabilities of complexes up to a temperature of 190 to 320°C. Single‐crystal XRD analysis of product 4 has shown a distorted trigonal bipyramidal geometry around Sn (IV), in which the three phenyl groups were positioned equatorially while the carbonyl oxygen (from the aldehyde) and the sulfur atom occupied the apical positions. Employing the 6‐31G(d,p) basis set and the CAM‐B3LYP functional, time‐dependent density functional theory (TD‐DFT) computations were performed for the calculation of absorbance maxima, oscillator strength (f), and matching molecular designations. MEP maps and HOMO–LUMO energy gaps were predicated on the CAM‐B3LYP/6‐31+g(d,p) level of theory and were used to resolve GRD, including chemical potential (μ), global hardness (η), global softness (S), electronegativity (χ), electrophilicity (ω), ionization potential (IP), and electron affinity (EA). The phenyltin (IV) derivatives (3 and 4) have shown a fantastic biofilm inhibition of Escherichia coli, which was even higher as compared with that of the reference drug ciprofloxacin. The bioactivity of 2 against Bacillus subtilis was equivalent to that of the ciprofloxacin. The products 2 and 3 have shown very little (less than 10%) toxic hemolytic effects demonstrating their possible safe use for the human beings.
Large strain mechanical behaviors of optically clear adhesives for flexible electronic devices under different temperature, humidity, and strain rates
Authors: Cao Jinrui , Es'haghioskui Abuzar , Sadeghzade Sorour , Li Yuanlong , Huang Zhaoyan , Li Xin , Dong Peng , Hu Jiayi , Hou Runsheng , Yuan Hongyan
Published: June 2024

Optically clear adhesives (OCAs), a type of polymer pressure‐sensitive adhesive, are valued for their transparency, strong bonding, thermal stability, and reliability in flexible electronics. Accurately determining the mechanical properties of OCAs is importance for effectively assessing the structural integrity of foldable screens in finite element simulations. However, previous studies have primarily focused on small strain and conventional environmental conditions. To address this gap, the present study investigates the mechanical behaviors of OCAs under extreme conditions, including large strain (up to 1000%), high/low temperatures (−40, −20, 0, 25, 65, and 80°C), and high humidity (95% relative humidity). Specifically, the tensile, simple shear, and creep properties of OCAs have been assessed in an attempt to explore their visco‐hyperelastic behavior. The experimental findings indicate that OCA exhibits noticeable temperature sensitivity and viscoelasticity, along with volume‐incompressible properties. Notably, when the temperature is varied from −40 to 25°C and from 25 to 80°C, the modulus of OCA experiences an average reduction of 84% and 41% respectively. Moreover, it has been observed that humidity has a negligible effect on the material's modulus. The Yeoh model and Prony series are employed for fitting purposes. The proposed fitting parameters are subsequently validated through numerical simulations of three‐point bending case studies. Remarkably, the simulation results closely matched with the experimental data, with errors remaining below 10%.
Metabolite profiling of liquiritin in acute myocardial infarction model rat after intragastric administration using an information‐dependent acquisition‐mediated ultra‐high‐performance liquid chromatography‐tandem mass spectrometry method
Authors: Chen Jian , Li Jing , Wang Feng , Ge Ruirui , Wang Liang , Huang Jinling
Published: June 2024

Liquiritin (LQ), a kind of flavonoid isolated from licorice, was proven to have great potential in treating heart failure. Pharmacokinetic evaluation is important for demonstrating clinical efficacy and mechanisms, and the prototype drug and its metabolite profiling are important for drug discovery and development. However, the metabolism of LQ in acute myocardial infarction (AMI) model rats still needs to be studied in depth. An information‐dependent acquisition (IDA)‐ultra‐high‐performance liquid chromatography‐tandem mass spectrometry (UHPLC‐MS/MS) method was applied to profile LQ metabolites in AMI model rat plasma. Protein precipitation and extraction were used for sample preparation. Chromatographic separation was achieved using an XSelect BEH C18 column (2.1 × 150 mm, 2.5 μm) using gradient elution method combining 0.1% formic acid and acetonitrile with a flow rate of 0.3 mL/min. Twelve metabolites were identified in IDA mode, sulfation, glucuronidation, methylation, methyl esterification, glutamine conjugation, and valine conjugation, and their composite reactions were presumed as the primary pathways of LQ metabolism. The variation in the peak areas showed that the time to reach the peak drug concentration of LQ and 12 metabolites was within 5 h. In summary, IDA‐bridged UHPLC‐MS/MS from characteristic fragment ions toward confidence‐enhanced identification could effectively screen and profile metabolites.
DRL‐based computing offloading approach for large‐scale heterogeneous tasks in mobile edge computing
Authors: He Bingkun , Li Haokun , Chen Tong
Published: June 2024

In the last few years, the rapid advancement of the Internet of Things (IoT) and the widespread adoption of smart cities have posed new challenges to computing services. Traditional cloud computing models fail to fulfil the rapid response requirement of latency‐sensitive applications, while mobile edge computing (MEC) improves service efficiency and customer experience by transferring computing tasks to servers located at the network edge. However, designing an effective computing offloading strategy in complex scenarios involving multiple computing tasks, nodes, and services remains a pressing issue. In this paper, a computing offloading approach based on Deep Reinforcement Learning (DRL) is proposed for large‐scale heterogeneous computing tasks. First, Markov Decision Processes (MDPs) is used to formulate computing offloading decision and resource allocation problems in large‐scale heterogeneous MEC systems. Subsequently, a comprehensive framework comprising the "end‐edge‐cloud" along with the corresponding time‐overhead and resource allocation models is constructed. Finally, through extensive experiments on real datasets, the proposed approach is demonstrated to outperform existing methods in enhancing service response speed, reducing latency, balancing server loads, and saving energy.
Triglyceride–glucose index and prognosis in individuals afflicted with heart failure and chronic kidney disease
Authors: Chen Yang , Li Shaomin , Yang Ke , Wu Bingyuan , Xie Dongmei , Peng Chaoquan , Lai Weiyan
Published: June 2024

Background

The triglyceride–glucose (TyG) index has demonstrated correlations with adverse clinical outcomes in patients with ischaemic stroke, coronary heart disease and cardiac failure. However, its association with overall mortality in individuals concurrently experiencing heart failure (HF) and chronic kidney disease (CKD) remains inadequately explored.

Methods

Utilizing the Medical Information Mart for Intensive Care IV (Version 2.2) repository, subjects underwent quartile stratification based on the TyG index. The primary endpoint was all‐cause mortality during hospitalization. Cox proportional hazard models were employed to examine the correlation between TyG and all‐cause mortality in HF patients with CKD. Evaluation involved Kaplan–Meier (KM) analysis and restricted cubic splines (RCSs) to compare mortality rates during hospitalization and 1 year after admission across cohorts with varying TyG index levels.

Results

A cohort of 1537 HF and CKD patients participated. Cox regression analysis revealed elevated TyG levels as an independent risk factor for both in‐hospital and 1 year mortality. RCS analysis indicated a rising, non‐linear association between TyG levels and all‐cause mortality (P value for non‐linear <0.001). KM survival curves demonstrated a statistically significant reduction in survival rates within the high TyG index group compared with the low one (log‐rank P < 0.001).

Conclusions

The TyG index exhibited substantial independent prognostic value for elevated in‐hospital and 1 year all‐cause mortality among the cohort with HF and CKD. These findings suggest that assessing the TyG index could play a crucial role in developing novel therapeutic strategies to improve outcomes for this high‐risk demographic.
Unveiling the Photovoltaic Performance and Thermal Stability of n‐TOPCon, p‐TOPCon, and TOPCoRE Solar Cells Based on 110 μm Wafers
Authors: Ghosh Dibyendu Kumar , Das Gourab , Bose Sukanta , Mukhopadhyay Sumita , Sengupta Anindita
Published: June 2024

The choice of the best possible TOPCon solar cell architecture in terms of photovoltaic performance, thermal stability, and bifaciality has been one of the most fundamental issues to be addressed. Accordingly, a theoretical approach with the help of Automat FOR Simulation of HETero‐structure simulation software has been adopted to conduct a detailed comparative analysis among n‐TOPCon, p‐TOPCon, and TOPCoRE solar cells based on tentative future wafer thickness, i.e., 110 μm. Initially, the sole impact of the thickness of the ultrathin SiOx layer is unveiled and it is realized that the maximum power conversion efficiency may reach to 24.35%, 23.72%, and 24.45% for n‐TOPCon, p‐TOPCon, and TOPCoRE solar cells; respectively; however, the optimized thickness of SiOx layer is quite low. Subsequently, pinholes within 1.5 nm SiOx tunneling layer are incorporated and it is observed that adequate power output may be realized upon the optimization of the pinhole density. To realize further the cost‐cutting option, the impact of wafer lifetime on the device performance is deduced. Eventually, the operating temperature is varied from 275–375 K with an interval of 25 K to examine the thermal stability of the devices which have demonstrated almost similar thermal degradation within the tested region.
A double‐blind randomized clinical trial of inflammatory cytokine and pepsin levels in the saliva of patients with voice prostheses
Authors: Żurek Michał , Czesak Małgorzata , Czerwińska Monika E. , Berezovska Daria , Niemczyk Kazimierz , Rzepakowska Anna
Published: June 2024

Background

Tracheoesophageal speech is one of the most effective method used for voice rehabilitation after laryngectomy. The main limitation is the need for periodic voice prothesis (VP) replacements. The process of developing VP usage complications is still unexplored. The aim of this study was to assess the level of cytokines (IL‐1β, IL‐6, IL‐8, IL‐10, TNFα) and pepsin in saliva as potential factors reducing VP longevity.

Methods

Prospective double‐blind randomized clinical trial was conducted (NCT04268459). Patients were randomly divided into two groups depending on VP replacement regimen (regular—every 3 months, or irregular—when complications occur). Levels of IL‐1β, IL‐6, IL‐8, IL‐10, TNFα, and pepsin in saliva samples (fasting and after eating) of laryngectomized patients were measured using ELISA tests.

Results

Fifty‐two patients (26 in both groups) with control group (7 patients) participated in the study. The level of IL‐1β, IL‐6, IL‐8, IL‐10, TNFα, and pepsin did not differ according to regularity of VP replacements (p = 0.301–0.801). IL‐6 levels were significantly higher when VP complications occurs (p = 0.012).

Conclusions

The saliva components were not significantly different depending on the frequency of VP replacements. IL‐6 plays an important role in the development of VP use complications.
A Black autoethnography of grief and racial trauma during the COVID‐19 pandemic
Authors: Cox Michelle R.
Published: June 2024

Battling cancer of a spouse during a worldwide pandemic is a unique phenomenon. While the world experienced hardships such as stay‐at‐home orders, masking mandates, or the COVID‐19 infection, caregivers supported their loved ones who were diagnosed with terminal diseases. Racism compounded trauma as Black caregivers were not provided with the same level of respect and care for their loved ones during the COVID‐19 pandemic. Racial trauma is experienced by Black Americans, even during the pandemic and while grieving losses of loved ones. An autoethnographic approach draws upon my lived experience of racial trauma while caring for my dying husband during the COVID‐19 pandemic. This autoethnography informs the role of counselor education programs to prepare future counselors to support minoritized clients who may have suffered from systemic racism, while grieving the loss of loved ones, especially during the COVID‐19 pandemic, and which could also have contributed to racial trauma.