bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Recycling waste gypsum and calcium carbide slag for the production of all-solid-waste supersulfated cement
Authors: Shao Changzhi , Gong Yu'an , Zhang Qing-song , Zhu Guangxuan
Published: December 2024

The appropriate use of industrial solid waste is an effective method for alleviating environmental pollution. In this study, the potential of using desulfurized gypsum (DG), phosphogypsum (PG), gypsum dihydrate (G), and calcium carbide slag (CS) in the production of supersulfated cement (SSC) was investigated. The effects of various types of gypsum and their dosages on the performance and hydration process of SSC were thoroughly examined. The results indicate that as the ratio of CS to gypsum (CS/G) increased, the pH of SSC increased, whereas fluidity and setting time decreased. For the same CS/G ratio, SSCs activated by DG and CS (D-CSSC) and by PG and CS (P-CSSC) exhibited longer setting times and lower pH values than those activated by G and CS (G-CSSC). Mineralogical analysis and microstructural characterization revealed that the type of gypsum influenced the hydration rate, microstructure, and hydration products (type and quantity) of the SSC, thereby affecting its compressive strength. The loose pore structure of G-CSSC significantly reduced its compressive strength. Owing to the formation of a significant amount of Calcium aluminum hydrate (C-A-H) gel, D-CSSC demonstrated greater early strength; however, hannebachite hindered its late strength development. PG continuously participated in hydration, leading to more hydration products and a denser microstructure in P-CSSC, which significantly increased its late strength. This study elucidates the effect of gypsum type on SSC performance and offers valuable insights for enhancing it.
Erosion characteristics and mechanisms of different particle sizes under the synergy effect of cavitation and particle erosion
Authors: Nan Haozhi , Han Wei , Li Rennian , Dong Yifan , Shen Xiaobo , Song Hao , Xie Wenqi , Guo Xuanchen
Published: December 2024

Particle erosion, particularly the mechanism whereby erosion occurs under the synergy of cavitation and particle impact, is a critical area of research in hydraulic machinery. This study investigates the influence of particle size on the erosion characteristics under the synergistic action of cavitation and particle erosion through turntable erosion experiments and numerical simulations. The findings indicate that cutting erosion is dominant under these combined conditions, with a clear overlap between high-erosion-rate regions and high-speed-impact areas. For particle sizes ranging from 0.2–0.6 mm, the maximum erosion rate increases significantly. When the particles are larger than 0.6 mm, smaller-diameter particles correspond to higher impact angles, while larger-diameter particles encounter lower impact angles due to their increased inertia. Moreover, cavitation greatly influences the movement and acceleration of the particles, especially as the angle of the cavitation inducer increases, leading to a marked rise in acceleration. This study enhances the understanding of particle erosion under cavitation conditions, underscores the crucial role of cavitation in the erosion mechanism, and provides a theoretical foundation for optimizing erosion performance and guiding future research directions.
The effects of micro-fractures and mixed wettability on oil/water imbibition in porous media
Authors: Yin Xinman , Li Jing , Wang Dongying , Wu Keliu , Zhang Shengting , Chen Zhangxing
Published: December 2024

Imbibition is widely recognized as an effective process for enhancing oil recovery in shale reservoirs. However, shale formations often feature complex multi-scale laminar structures, including micro-fractures, and distinct wettability characteristics in organic and inorganic pores. To better understand the impact of micro-fractures and mixed wettability on water imbibition, we developed a pore-scale model incorporating mixed wettability and micro-fractures to simulate countercurrent imbibition. The results indicate that: (1) Counter-current imbibition exhibits complex flow characteristics and can be divided into three stages. In the early stage, two equivalent oil-water phase interfaces form, and an external force exceeding resistance is required to displace the oil phase. In the middle stage, a continuous oil phase gradually develops in the main channel, with only one phase interface. In the later stage, driving forces and resistance approach mechanical equilibrium, allowing some oil droplets to be expelled into the main channel. (2) The mixed wettability of shale pores amplifies oil phase trapping and capillary fingering during water imbibition. A concentrated distribution of oil-wet pores increases adhesion forces between the oil and pore walls, resulting in pronounced oil trapping. Conversely, a concentrated distribution of water-wet pores accelerates water flow due to capillary forces, enhancing the fingering effect. (3) Micro-fractures effectively connect matrix pores distant from the main channel. As the bifurcation angle increases, imbibition recovery initially rises and then decreases. However, mixed wettability significantly restricts the flow conductivity of micro-fractures, highlighting the importance of considering its influence in reservoir studies.
Correlation between surface wettability and fluid physics characteristics of lignite under compound solution regulation
Authors: Gong Li , Xie Jingna , Li Xiaokun , Xie Jun , Li Moyu
Published: December 2024

The specific composition and ratio of the composite wetting agent will affect its dust reduction effect. Therefore, in order to study the effect of the composite wetting agent on the wettability and physical structure of lignite, the anionic surfactant sodium dodecyl sulfate was selected and mixed with different concentrations of sodium chloride to obtain different concentrations of the composite wetting agent. The correlation between the fluid physical properties of these composite wetting agents and the wetting of lignite surfaces was comprehensively explored by contact angle measurement, surface tension analysis, and low-temperature liquid nitrogen adsorption experiments, and the potential effects on pore structure were investigated. The results showed that as the sodium chloride concentration increased, the surface tension, contact angle, adhesion work, and surface free energy of the composite solution decreased, while the diffusion coefficient increased. There was a high linear correlation between the pore diameter of coal and the contact angle (R2 = 0.955), which revealed the close relationship between the permeability behavior of the fluid in the coal pores and the physical structure of the coal body. In addition, composite wetting agents with high sodium chloride concentrations exhibited a specific pore expansion effect, which helped optimize the coal's pore distribution and thus promoted effective coal wetting. This study not only deepens our understanding of the role of fluid physics principles in dust removal technology but also provides an important theoretical basis for selecting suitable composite wetting agents and their optimal ratios.
Reproductive biology of African river prawn, Macrobrachium vollenhoveni (Herklots, 1857) in major watersheds in Benin (West Africa): a baseline approach for artisanal fisheries
Authors: Koussovi Guillaume , Houssou Arsène M. , Adjahouinou Dogbè C. , Niass Farokh , López Greco Laura , García-Guerrero Marcelo U. , Cortés-Jacinto Edilmar , Montchowui Elie
Published: December 2024

Context Macrobrachium vollenhoveni (Herklots), a freshwater prawn native to Africa, is crucial for aquaculture and subsistence fishing. However, limited data exist on its reproductive biology in Benin’s water bodies. Aims This research aimed to explore the breeding season, size at sexual maturity, fecundity and reproductive output of M. vollenhoveni. Methods Prawns were sampled monthly from May 2015 to October 2016. In total, 1567 females of M. vollenhoveni were collected from the lower Ouémé (864 prawns) and the lower Mono (703 prawns). Key results Findings showed that gonadal maturation starts in March, with peaks in July. Then spawning occurs from July to September, and even October. In both environments, ovigerous females (prawns carrying fertilised eggs in incubation) were frequently captured from July to October, with a maximum proportion in August and September. The spawning period for the two prawn populations in both sampled areas matched with an increase in water volume, salinity and pH. The size at sexual maturity was 8.48-cm total length (TL) for the lower Ouémé population, whereas in lower Mono, it was 9.00 cm TL. Absolute fecundity ranged from 3925 to 31,408 eggs in lower Mono and from 4871 to 25,902 eggs in lower Ouémé. The reproductive output was 12.87% for Mono and 11.94% for Ouémé. Conclusions and implications This research is the first one on the reproductive biology of M. vollenhoveni in Benin and provides vital data for sustainable fishery management of this prawn species in the watersheds throughout the country.
Linguistics is for everyone
Authors: DeLisi Jessica
Published: December 2024

Introducing students to linguistics before they embark on their undergraduate studies can increase awareness and
interest in the field. After documenting my ultimately unsuccessful attempts at creating a standalone course in linguistics at an
independent school in Los Angeles, CA, I discuss how I have successfully incorporated linguistics lessons into both my elective
classes in the Latin language and my core course in world history. I will show that high school students, particularly older
students in advanced classes, are capable of sophisticated linguistic analysis approaching the level of undergraduate student work
if they are given proper training. Their progress in the field of linguistics is limited only by the number of hours available to
dedicate to linguistics activities in an already packed curriculum. By introducing students to the field of linguistics early in
their high school career and revisiting these skills as frequently as possible over the course of four years, I have found that
they are more likely to enroll in linguistics classes at the undergraduate level.
Selective regulation of kinesin-5 function by β-tubulin carboxy-terminal tails
Authors: Thomas Ezekiel C. , Moore Jeffrey K.
Published: December 2024

The tubulin code hypothesis predicts that tubulin tails create programs for selective regulation of microtubule-binding proteins, including kinesin motors. However, the molecular mechanisms that determine selective regulation and their relevance in cells are poorly understood. We report selective regulation of budding yeast kinesin-5 motors by the β-tubulin tail. Cin8, but not Kip1, requires the β-tubulin tail for recruitment to the mitotic spindle, creating a balance of both motors in the spindle and efficient mitotic progression. We identify a negatively charged patch in the β-tubulin tail that mediates interaction with Cin8. Using in vitro reconstitution with genetically modified yeast tubulin, we demonstrate that the charged patch of β-tubulin tail increases Cin8 plus-end-directed velocity and processivity. Finally, we determine that the positively charged amino-terminal extension of Cin8 coordinates interactions with the β-tubulin tail. Our work identifies a molecular mechanism underlying selective regulation of closely related kinesin motors by tubulin tails and how this regulation promotes proper function of the mitotic spindle.
Enhancing oyster mushroom growth and yield using air gliding arc discharge
Authors: Chalise Roshan , Lamichhane Prajwal , Niure Deepak , Klam Khan Abdul , Sharma Sangat , Basnet Suresh , Lamichhane Pradeep , Raj Acharya Tirtha , Khanal Raju
Published: December 2024

Oyster mushroom cultivation can be hindered by slow budding and low yield. This study explored the potential of atmospheric pressure gliding arc discharge plasma to address these challenges. Two types (direct and indirect) of plasma treatment methods were applied to the mushroom spawn and straw, and plasma-activated water in the growth environment in oyster mushrooms. Physicochemical characterization of plasma-activated water revealed increased conductivity, oxidation-reduction potential, nitrate/nitrite levels, and hydrogen peroxide with longer treatment times, and decreased pH of water. Plasma-treated spawn exhibited faster budding and earlier colonization compared to others. The longest stem was observed in spawn exposed to plasma. Mushrooms produced with a spawn treatment, straw, and plasma-activated water spray have positively influenced production and biological efficiency. Therefore, compared to the control spawn, the production of mushroom spawn treated with plasma increased nearly 1.5 times. Overall, plasma treatment enhanced mushroom development and yield, indicating its positive impact on oyster growth.
Lepton flavor violating decays

Z
⃗

l

i

±

l

j

∓

in the B-L Supersymmetric Standard Model
Authors: Huo Jia-Peng , Dong Xing-Xing , Ma Jiao , Zhao Shu-Min , Guo Cai , Zhang Hai-Bin , Yang Jin-Lei , Feng Tai-Fu
Published: December 2024

Lepton flavor violation (LFV) represents a clear new physics (NP) signal beyond the Standard Model (SM). In this paper, we study LFV decay

Z
→

l

i

±

l

j

∓

with

l

i

−

representing the lepton and

l

i

+

representing the antilepton in the B-L Supersymmetric Standard Model (B-LSSM). We calculate these processes separately in the mass eigenstate basis and the electroweak interaction basis, and for the latter adopt the mass insertion approximation (MIA) method. The effect of the LFV decays

Z
→

l

i

±

l

j

∓

changing with parameters can be shown clearly at the analytic level by the MIA, which provides a new way for us to analyze the LFV processes. At the same time, the corresponding constraints from the LFV decays

l

j

−

→

l

i

−

γ

and (g − 2)
μ
are considered to analyze the numerical results.
Context-enhanced YOLOv5s for accurate apple detection in complex natural environments
Authors: Hui Yongyong , Zhao Chunyu , Song Zhaoyang , Zhao Xiaoqiang
Published: December 2024

Object detection in natural environments is a critical challenge for agricultural automation, particularly for small and occluded targets such as apples among foliage. We propose an innovative detection framework CSFN-YOLOv5s. Firstly, the context augmentation module-spatial pyramid pooling faster cross stage partial channel structure is constructed to introduce additional background and context information, so that the model can understand the image data more deeply and improve its robustness and generalization ability. Secondly, four detection layers are applied to obtain finer-grained feature expression and smaller receptive field, which improves the precision of small target detection by finely capturing the details. Thirdly, normalized wasserstein distance is used to mitigate the sensitivity for small object localization errors, showing a significant improvement. The experimental results and analysis show that the mAP of the final model reaches 98.5%, which is significantly better than other mainstream target detection models. Especially for the small target detection task in the natural complex environment, the proposed CSFN-YOLOv5s model shows higher detection precision and verifies its target detection effect.
Characterization and fault diagnosis of vibration characteristics of tenon disks with cracks based on blade tip timing
Authors: Guo Shuaiping , Cao Junbiao , Yu Haiyan , Huang Xingyuan , Li Xuejun
Published: December 2024

The tenon-structured disk is a critical component of the rotor system in aeroengines. Under the repeated cyclic loads and inherent material defects, the disk is susceptible to the initiation of fatigue cracks. The impact of disk cracks on the shaft vibration response is subtle and challenging to monitor, however, it can induce periodic vibrations in the blades near the crack location. Therefore, this paper proposes a method for crack identification in rotor disks based on blade tip timing technology, which allows for the reflection of rotor disk crack parameters (type, location) through the blade tip vibration parameters, enabling online monitoring and fault diagnosis of rotor disk cracks. To guide the implantation of cracks, this study analyzes the weak points of the disk and conducts a comparative analysis of the effects of cracks of different depths on the blade tip vibration characteristics. Experimental validation confirms the accuracy of the proposed method, providing theoretical support for the onboard online identification of cracks in aeroengine disks.
An airborne gravity gradient compensation method based on residual backpropagation
Authors: Zhou Shuai , Yang Changcheng , Cheng Yi , Jiao Jian , Bi Fengyi
Published: December 2024

Airborne gravity gradient dynamic measurement error compensation is a crucial aspect of data processing in gravity gradient dynamic measurements. This study introduces a deep learning approach based on a residual backpropagation (Res-BP) neural network for post-error compensation in airborne gravity gradient dynamic measurement. The network employs residual connections to facilitate identity mapping, thereby enabling gradient propagation across layers. This strategy preserves the original information while acquiring additional information through nonlinear operations, effectively mitigating the gradient vanishing issue and enhancing the neural network’s fitting capability. The method proposed in this paper is applied to both simulation data from a gravity gradiometer and high-altitude dynamic measured data of an airborne gravity gradient. Compared to traditional neural network multilayer perceptron, the Res-BP method significantly improves compensation accuracy through its application in high flight experiment of the southern section of Zhangguangcai Ridge on the western side of Mudanjiang City, Heilongjiang Province.
Enhanced wavelet transform-integrated MWRC-ResNet: a novel framework for interpretable and noise-robust rolling bearing fault diagnosis
Authors: Zhang Daode , Gong Ziang , Zhou Hongdi , Ma Sitong , Li Tao , Huang Yifeng , Hu Xinyu
Published: December 2024

Research on efficient detection methods for rolling bearings is crucial for enhancing the reliability and safety of mechanical equipment. Statistics indicate that over 30% of failures in rotating machinery are attributed to rolling bearings. This paper proposes the wavelet retention transformation and integrates it seamlessly with a residual neural network, resulting in a novel signal processing-based residual neural network framework (MWRC-ResNet). This approach significantly improves the accuracy and interpretability of fault detection in high-noise environments. The proposed method was experimentally validated using both the Case Western Reserve University dataset and the HIT dataset, and the experimental results show that its accuracy and noise resistance are superior to traditional models and other wavelet-based models. This approach not only improves the accuracy of fault detection but also offers better interpretability, providing an effective solution for rolling bearing fault diagnosis.
Tight binding molecular dynamics study of growth of nanostructure materials
Authors: Tamoev Konstantin , Chugh Manjusha , Mirhosseini Hossein , Kühne Thomas D
Published: December 2024

The growth dynamics of mixed In and Se films on the MoSe2 substrate is modeled using quantum mechanical tight-binding-based molecular dynamics simulations. The substrate temperature, the ratio of In and Se, and the deposition flux are chosen to mimic the experimental conditions as closely as possible. The conversion of individual adatoms and clusters into alternate layers of Se–In–Se is captured during our simulations. One of the main outcomes of our model is that we are able to identify and obtain energy barriers for the concerted motion of some species on the substrate surface. Such kind of estimates of energy barriers are important for larger scale kinetic Monte Carlo simulations. Furthermore, we have identified different diffusion regimes of In and Se.
Enhanced ethylenediamine detection using WO3–BiVO4 nanoflakes heterostructure with exceptional adsorption capabilities: experimental and theoretical studies
Authors: Kim Eun-Bi , Akhtar M Shaheer , Ameen Sadia , Umar Ahmad , Akbar Sheikh , Baskoutas S
Published: December 2024

The present work describes the synthesis of WO3–BiVO4-nanoflakes heterostructure (NFHs) by a single step hydrothermal method. The analysis of crystalline phases and structural behavior deduced the formation of good crystal quality WO3–BiVO4 NFHs. Under microscopic observation, the as-prepared WO3–BiVO4 displayed uniform and conspicuous nanoflakes like structures. The extensive density functional theory was studied to examine the electronic and band structures of as-prepared WO3–BiVO4 NFHs in terms of formation energy, charge density, density of state and band structures. The synthesized WO3–BiVO4 NFHs was used as sensing electrode towards the detection of ethylenediamine (EDA) chemical that displayed a good sensitivity of ∼318.52 mA·mM−1cm−2, excellent dynamic range of 1 μM–1 mM with detection limit of ∼94.51 nM and retention coefficient of ∼0.9929. WO3–BiVO4 NFHs electrode possessed the good reproducibility, stability, and repeatability towards EDA chemical. To the best of our knowledge, for the first time, the fabricated chemical sensor fabricated with WO3–BiVO4 NFHs electrode could be promising electrode materials to identify dangerous chemicals at very low concentration in environment. Importantly, the fabricated chemical sensor can be effective for environmental monitoring.
Enhanced lithium-ion battery performance with a novel composite anode: S-doped graphene oxide, polypyrrole, and fumed silica
Authors: Al-Bujasim Mohammed , Gencten Metin , Donmez Koray Bahadır , Arvas Melih B , Karatepe Nilgun , Sahin Yucel
Published: December 2024

In this work, a novel composite anode material was developed, utilizing S-doped graphene oxide (SGO), polypyrrole (PPy), and fumed silica to enhance the performance of lithium-ion batteries (LIBs). The chronoamperometric approach was used to produce SGO, while the chemical method was employed to synthesize PPy. A composite of SGO, PPy, and fumed silica was prepared as an anode for a half-cell, using two samples: one with a high PPy ratio (S1) and the other with a low PPy ratio (S2) and compared the results with bare sample (S0). The S1 sample exhibited a good initial discharge capacity (648 mAh g−1), with capacities of 207 and 131 mAh g−1 at 5 C and 10 C, respectively. S1 and S2 also demonstrated superior cycling stability at a high current (100 cycles at 10 C), with a retention capacity of 99 and 87%, respectively compared with S0 which retained only 68%. Coin-type full cells with S1 as the anode and LiFePO4 (LFP) as the cathode were assembled and compared with commercial graphite anodes. The S1 full cell showed a high reversible capacity (164 mAh g−1 at 0.1 C), with a capacity retention of 66% after 100 cycles at 10 C. At the same time, the graphite anode exhibited a reversible capacity of 133 mAh g−1 at 0.1 C, with a capacity retention of 58% after 100 cycles at 10 C. The S1 full cell achieved a gravimetric energy density of 164 W h kg−1 at 0.1 C and 49 W h kg−1 at 10 C, which is 25% greater than that of the graphite full cell(39 W h kg−1 ) at 10 C. These distinguishing characteristics of S1 make it a viable substitute for graphite as a high-performance anode material in LIBs, opening the possibility for devices with reliable battery systems.
High performance Mg–Li dual metal-ion batteries based on highly pseudocapacitive hierarchical TiO2-B nanosheet assembled spheres cathodes
Authors: Vincent Mewin , Avvaru Venkata Sai , Haranczyk Maciej , Etacheri Vinodkumar
Published: December 2024

Although Mg–Li dual metal-ion batteries are proposed as a superior system that unite safety of Mg-batteries and performance of Li-ion based systems, its practical implantation is limited due to the lack of reliable high-performance cathodes. Herein, we report a high-performance Mg–Li dual metal-ion battery system based on highly pseudocapacitive hierarchical TiO2-B nanosheet assembled spheres (NS) cathode. This 2D cathode displayed exceptional pseudocapacitance (a maximum of 93%) specific capacity (303 mAh g −1 at 25 mA g−1 ), rate performance (210 mAh g −1 at 1 A g−1 ), consistent cycling (retain ∼100% capacity for 3000 cycles at 1 A g−1 ), Coulombic efficiency (nearly 100%) and fast-charging (∼12.1 min). These properties are remarkably dominant to the existing Mg-Li dual metal-ion battery cathodes. Spectroscopic and microscopic mechanistic studies confirmed negligible structural changes during charge-discharge cycles of the TiO2-B nanosheet assembled spheres electrodes. Exceptional electrochemical properties of the 2D electrode is ascribed to remarkable pseudocapacitive Mg–Li dual metal-ion diffusion via the numerous nanointerfaces of TiO2-B caused by its hierarchical microstrucrure. Large surface area, nanosheet morphology, mesoporous structure and ultrathin nature also acted as secondary factors facilitating improved electrode-electrolyte contact. Demonstrated approach of pseudocapacitive type Mg-Li dual metal-ion intercalation through hierarchical nanointerfaces may be further utilized for the designing of numerous top-notch electrode materials for futuristic Mg–Li dual metal-ion batteries.
Investigation of EMI-shielding properties of buckypaper manufactured with an easily scalable method
Authors: Nuriakhmetov Zaur , Chernousov Yuri , Smovzh Dmitry , Andryushchenko Vladimir
Published: December 2024

This paper presents a straightforward and easily scalable method for producing buckypapers. These thin films consist of single-walled carbon nanotubes (SWCNTs) dispersed on a PET substrate using an airbrushing technique, followed by solvent evaporation. Notably, this process requires minimal equipment complexity. The study investigates the electrical properties of buckypapers made from both purified and unpurified SWCNTs, as well as chemical vapor deposition graphene. Specifically, we focus on their electromagnetic interference (EMI) shielding effectiveness in the S-band of microwaves (2–4 GHz). To evaluate this, we installed buckypaper and graphene plates within a waveguide cross section. The results show that these buckypapers exhibit high overall shielding effectiveness. It is found that buckypapers based on purified carbon nanotubes have higher shielding parameters (due higher electrical conductivity measured by TRL method) than those based on unpurified CNTs. In summary, our approach offers a practical route for manufacturing effective EMI shielding materials, with potential applications in various technological domains.
Anatomy-based diffusion-weighted MRI quality metric: a proof-of-concept for deriving accurate muscle fiber orientation
Authors: Shusharina Nadya , Kaza Evangelia , Lam Miranda B , Maier Stephan E
Published: December 2024

Objective. Diffusion-weighted MRI (DW-MRI) is used to quantitatively characterize the microscopic structure of muscle through anisotropic water diffusion in soft tissue. Applications such as tumor propagation modeling require precise detection of muscle fiber orientation. That is, the direction along the fibers that coincides with the direction of the principal eigenvector of the diffusion tensor reconstructed from DW-MRI data. For clinical applications, the quality of image data is determined by the signal-to-noise ratio (SNR) that must be achieved within the appropriate scan time. The acquisition protocol must therefore be optimized. This implies the need for SNR criteria that match the data quality of the application. Approach. Muscles with known structural heterogeneity, e.g. bipennate muscles such as the rectus femoris in the thigh, provide a natural quality benchmark to determine accuracy of inferred fiber orientation at different scan parameters. In this study, we analyze DW-MR images of the thigh of a healthy volunteer at different SNRs and use PCA to identify subsets of voxels with different directions of diffusion tensor eigenvectors corresponding to different pennate angles. We propose to use the separation index of spatial co-localization of the clustered eigenvectors as a quality metric for fiber orientation detection. Main results. The clustering in the PCA component coordinates can be translated to the separation of the two compartments of the bipennate muscle on either side of the central tendon according to the pennate angle. The separation index reflects the degree of the separation and is a function of SNR. Significance. Because the separation index allows joint estimation of spatial and directional noise in DW-MRI as a single parameter, it will allow future quantitative optimization of DW-MRI soft tissue protocols.
Umbrella-rib-like multi-section three-jawed soft gripper by hybrid pneumatic and magnetic
Authors: Zhang Zheng , Wang Tianye , Pan Baisong , Sun Min , Zhang Guang , Li Jiquan , Jiang Shaofei
Published: December 2024

Dual-response can respond to multiple stimuli and overcome the limitations of a single response, especially in biomimetic applications where large deformations and high stiffness are in high demand. This soft gripper fabricated with a new multi-section design and is a novel dual-response soft actuator that combines silicone and magnetic NdFeB particles, highlighting the advantages of a hybrid pneumatic and magnetic actuation to achieve bending behavior with high efficient and high stiffness at low pressure. The position of the bending center of the soft section is changed by adjusting the internal pressure. Here, an umbrella-rib-like soft actuator is proposed, inspired by the process of umbrella using deployable and foldable mechanisms, an efficient joint is designed for the soft actuator to act like umbrella ribs such that the joint bend-folding location does not change much on the robot for different internal pressures. The design and preparation of this multi-section soft actuator for grippers provides proficiency and wide application in medical, industry and so on.
Tunable mechanical performance of nanoporous energy absorption composite material
Authors: Huang Wei , Bi Yushan , Liu Yifan , Yang Peng , Liu Jiayi
Published: December 2024

Nanofluidic energy absorption materials (NEAs) represent smart and efficient energy absorption composite materials for the ever-growing application of advanced protective structures. In this paper, an integrated experimental and molecular dynamics (MD) simulation study is conducted on the NEAs (ZSM-5/water) to investigate the tunable strategy of mechanical performance and energy absorption by considering the microstructural, mechanical and thermal factors. The results demonstrate that NEAs are an efficient and tunable liquid spring-like volume memory material. Typical NEAs show superior energy absorption capacity, achieving a specific energy absorption (SEA) of 5.17 J cm−3 and an energy absorption ratio of 1.14 J cm−3 per cycle. Compared with the insensitivity of the loading rate, the solid–fluid mass ratio is confirmed to significantly affect the energy absorption performance, with an optimal ratio of approximately 1. Temperature is validated as an effective in situ tunable parameter for NEAs in terms of both infiltration and energy absorption properties, with only a slight effect on exfiltration. The critical infiltration pressure and SEA decrease by 23% and 40% as the temperature increases from 25 °C to 80 °C. The gas–fluid interaction-based energy absorption mechanism under high temperatures is proposed based on the comparison between experimental results and MD simulations. The findings in this study will provide novel material solutions for intelligent energy absorption protective structures.
Enhancing quantum state discrimination with indefinite causal order
Authors: Kechrimparis Spiros , Moran James , Karsa Athena , Lee Changhyoup , Kwon Hyukjoon
Published: December 2024

The standard quantum state discrimination problem can be understood as a communication scenario involving a sender and a receiver following these three steps: (i) the sender encodes information in pre-agreed quantum states, (ii) sends them over a noiseless channel, and (iii) the receiver decodes the information by performing appropriate measurements on the received states. In a practical setting, however, the channel is not only noisy but often also unknown, thus altering the states and making optimal decoding generally not possible. In this work, we study this noisy discrimination scenario using a protocol based on indefinite causal order. To this end, we consider the quantum switch and define its higher-order generalisations, which we call superswitches. We find that, for certain channels and ensembles, the guessing probability can be significantly improved compared to both single- and multiple-copy state discrimination.
Triadic percolation in computer virus spreading dynamics
Authors: Gao 高 Jie 杰 , Luo 罗 Jianfeng 建锋 , Li 李 Xing 星 , Li 李 Yihong 毅红 , Guo 郭 Zunguang 尊光 , Luo 罗 Xiaofeng 晓峰
Published: December 2024

In recent years, the threats posed by computer viruses have become increasingly diverse and complex. While classic percolation theory provides a novel perspective for analyzing epidemics and information dissemination, it fails to capture the temporal dynamics of these systems and the effects of virus invasion and governmental regulation. Triadic percolation theory, a recent advancement, addresses these limitations. In this paper, we apply this new percolation mechanism to model the diffusion of computer viruses, deriving a precise mathematical formulation of the triadic percolation model and providing an analytical solution of the triadic percolation threshold. Additionally, we investigate the impact of nonlinear transmission probability characteristics on virus propagation. Numerical simulations demonstrate that reducing the network’s average degree (or the positive regulation) or increasing regulatory interventions raises the outbreak threshold for computer viruses while decreasing their final size. Moreover, the study reveals that nonlinear transmission probabilities result in an increased number of solutions for the final size of the computer viruses. Our findings contribute new insights into controlling the spread of computer viruses.
Orbital XY models in moiré superlattices
Authors: Li 李 Yanqi 彦琪 , Wang 王 Yi-Jie 一杰 , Song 宋 Zhi-Da 志达
Published: December 2024

Moiré superlattices provide a new platform to engineer various many-body problems. In this work, we consider arrays of quantum dots (QD) realized on semiconductor moiré superlattices with a deep moiré potential. We diagonalize single QD with multiple electrons, and find degenerate ground states serving as local degrees of freedom (qudits) in the superlattice. With a deep moiré potential, the hopping and exchange interaction between nearby QDs become irrelevant, and the direct Coulomb interaction of the density–density type dominates. Therefore, nearby QDs must arrange the spatial densities to optimize the Coulomb energy. When the local Hilbert space has a two-fold orbital degeneracy, we find that a square superlattice realizes an anisotropic XY model, while a triangular superlattice realizes a generalized XY model with geometric frustration.
Experimental measurement of transverse spin dynamics in the nonparaxial focal region
Authors: Kumar Nitish , Raju Cyriac , Naik Dinesh N , Viswanathan Nirmal K
Published: December 2024

The superposition of complex optical fields in three-dimension is the basis of several non-trivial wave phenomena. Significant among them are the non-uniform (inhomogeneous) polarization distribution and their topological character, leading to the emergence of transverse spin angular momenta (AM) spin–momentum locking, and their dynamics. These aspects are experimentally measured in the nonparaxial focal region of a circularly-polarized Gaussian input beam. A dielectric mirror, kept in the focal region, is axially scanned to obtain the phase and polarization variations in the retroreflected output beam using an interferometer and spatially-resolved Stokes parameter measurements. The identification of phase and polarization singularities in the beam cross-section and their behaviour as a function of the mirror position enabled us to map and study the phase–polarization variations in the nonparaxial focal region. The lemon–monstar type polarization patterns surrounding the C-point singularity in the output beam are identified and tracked to study the transverse spin dynamics and spin–momentum locking for the right- and left- circular polarization of the input beam. Direct measurement of the input beam polarization helicity-independent and helicity-dependent aspects of the transverse and longitudinal spin AM in the nonparaxial focal region are the significant findings reported here. The proposed and demonstrated measurement method allows us to investigate the nonparaxial focal region in more detail and has the potential to unravel other intricate optical field effects.
The association between delirium and falls in older adults in the community: a systematic review and meta-analysis
Authors: Eost-Telling Charlotte , McNally Lucy , Yang Yang , Shi Chunhu , Norman Gill , Ahmed Saima , Poku Brenda , Money Annemarie , Hawley-Hague Helen , Todd Chris J , Shenkin Susan Deborah , Vardy Emma R L C
Published: December 2024

Objective

Systematically review and critically appraise the evidence for the association between delirium and falls in community-dwelling adults aged ≥60 years.

Methods

We searched EMBASE, MEDLINE, PsycINFO, Cochrane Database of Systematic Reviews, CINAHL and Evidence-Based Medicine Reviews databases in April 2023. Standard methods were used to screen, extract data, assess risk of bias (using Newcastle–Ottawa scale), provide a narrative synthesis and, where appropriate, conduct meta-analysis.

Results

We included 8 studies, with at least 3505 unique participants. Five found limited evidence for an association between delirium and subsequent falls: one adjusted study showed an increase in falls (risk ratio 6.66; 95% confidence interval (CI) 2.16–20.53), but the evidence was low certainty. Four non-adjusted studies found no clear effect. Three studies (one with two subgroups treated separately) found some evidence for an association between falls and subsequent delirium: meta-analysis of three adjusted studies showed an increase in delirium (pooled odds ratio 2.01; 95% CI 1.52–2.66); one subgroup of non-adjusted data found no clear effect. Number of falls and fallers were reported in the studies. Four studies and one subgroup were at high risk of bias and one study had some concerns.

Conclusions

We found limited evidence for the association between delirium and falls. More methodologically rigorous research is needed to understand the complex relationship and establish how and why this operates bidirectionally. Studies must consider confounding factors such as dementia, frailty and comorbidity in their design, to identify potential modifying factors involved. Clinicians should be aware of the potential relationship between these common presentations.
Antiviral Use Among Children Hospitalized With Laboratory-Confirmed Influenza Illness: A Prospective, Multicenter Surveillance Study
Authors: Antoon James W , Amarin Justin Z , Hamdan Olla , Stopczynski Tess , Stewart Laura S , Michaels Marian G , Williams John V , Klein Eileen J , Englund Janet A , Weinberg Geoffrey A , Szilagyi Peter G , Schuster Jennifer E , Selvarangan Rangaraj , Harrison Christopher J , Boom Julie A , Sahni Leila C , Muñoz Flor M , Staat Mary Allen , Schlaudecker Elizabeth P , Chappell James D , Clopper Benjamin R , Moline Heidi L , Campbell Angela P , Spieker Andrew J , Olson Samantha M , Halasa Natasha B
Published: December 2024

Background

Guidelines state that all hospitalized children with suspected or confirmed influenza receive prompt treatment with influenza-specific antivirals. We sought to determine the frequency of, and factors associated with, antiviral receipt among hospitalized children.

Methods

We conducted active surveillance of children presenting with fever or respiratory symptoms from 1 December 2016 to 31 March 2020 at 7 pediatric medical centers in the New Vaccine Surveillance Network. The cohort consisted of children hospitalized with influenza A or B confirmed by clinical or research testing. The primary outcome was frequency of antiviral receipt during hospitalization. We used logistic regression to obtain adjusted odds ratios (aORs) and 95% confidence intervals (CIs) for factors associated with antiviral receipt.

Results

A total of 1213 children with laboratory-confirmed influenza were included. Overall, 652 children (53.8%) received an antiviral. Roughly 63.0% of children received clinical influenza testing. Among those with clinical testing, 67.4% received an antiviral. Factors associated with higher odds of antiviral receipt included hematologic (aOR = 1.76; 95% CI = 1.03–3.02) or oncologic/immunocompromising (aOR = 2.41; 95% CI = 1.13–5.11) disorders, prehospitalization antiviral receipt (aOR = 2.34; 95% CI = 1.49–3.67), clinical influenza testing (aOR = 3.07; 95% CI = 2.28–4.14), and intensive care unit admission (aOR = 1.53; 95% CI = 1.02–2.29). Symptom duration >2 days was associated with lower odds of antiviral treatment (aOR = 0.40; 95% CI = .30–.52). Antiviral receipt varied by site with a 5-fold difference across sites.

Conclusions

Almost half of children hospitalized with influenza did not receive antivirals. Additional efforts to understand barriers to guideline adherence are crucial for optimizing care in children hospitalized with influenza.
Independent FDA Analyses of Nirmatrelvir/Ritonavir Resistance in the Phase 2/3 Trials EPIC-HR and EPIC-SR
Authors: Rawson Jonathan M O , Donaldson Eric F , O’Rear Julian J , Harrington Patrick R
Published: December 2024

Background

PAXLOVID consists of nirmatrelvir, an inhibitor of severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 (SARS-CoV-2) main protease (Mpro), copackaged with ritonavir, a pharmacokinetic enhancer. Nirmatrelvir/ritonavir received emergency use authorization in the United States in 2021 and was approved in 2023. However, there is limited published information on SARS-CoV-2 clinical resistance to nirmatrelvir/ritonavir.

Methods

To investigate SARS-CoV-2 resistance development to nirmatrelvir/ritonavir in treated patients, we analyzed baseline and matching post-baseline SARS-CoV-2 next-generation sequencing data from 1862 participants (912 nirmatrelvir/ritonavir, 950 placebo) in Evaluation of Protease Inhibition for COVID-19 in High-Risk Patients (EPIC-HR) and Evaluation of Protease Inhibition for COVID-19 in Standard-Risk Patients (EPIC-SR), which were Phase 2/3, randomized, double-blind, placebo-controlled trials in participants with mild-to-moderate coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19). Potential resistance-associated substitutions (RAS) were defined as those that were enriched in nirmatrelvir/ritonavir-treated participants or occurred at Mpro positions of interest, defined using nonclinical data. SARS-CoV-2 sequence databases were analyzed to characterize temporal frequencies of nirmatrelvir/ritonavir RAS in circulating viruses.

Results

In EPIC-HR, nirmatrelvir/ritonavir RAS included Mpro T21I (n = 1), E166V (n = 3), A173T (n = 1), and T304I (n = 1), with E166V being the clearest RAS observed. In EPIC-SR, no RAS were detected. Nirmatrelvir/ritonavir RAS were not associated with hospitalization or death. Analyses of SARS-CoV-2 sequence databases did not reveal concerning increases in the frequencies of nirmatrelvir/ritonavir RAS over time.

Conclusions

In clinical trials, emergence of SARS-CoV-2 resistance to nirmatrelvir/ritonavir was infrequent (<0.3%–1.1%). Surveillance data currently indicate a low frequency of circulating SARS-CoV-2 variants with nirmatrelvir/ritonavir RAS. Collectively, these results provide the most comprehensive analysis of SARS-CoV-2 resistance to nirmatrelvir/ritonavir in the clinical setting to date. Viral sequences should continue to be closely monitored to identify the potential emergence of nirmatrelvir/ritonavir-resistant variants.
From bits to bedside: entering the age of digital twins in cardiac electrophysiology
Authors: Bhagirath Pranav , Strocchi Marina , Bishop Martin J , Boyle Patrick M , Plank Gernot
Published: December 2024

This State of the Future Review describes and discusses the potential transformative power of digital twins in cardiac electrophysiology. In this ‘big picture’ approach, we explore the evolution of mechanistic modelling based digital twins, their current and immediate clinical applications, and envision a future where continuous updates, advanced calibration, and seamless data integration redefine clinical practice of cardiac electrophysiology. Our aim is to inspire researchers and clinicians to embrace the extraordinary possibilities that digital twins offer in the pursuit of precision medicine.
An assessment of cryptocurrencies as a global commercial determinant of health
Authors: Davies Nathan
Published: December 2024

Through the commercial determinants of health framework, gambling has been identified as a powerful threat to health. This research critically examines cryptocurrency, which is promoted and sold as a highly gamblified product. Using the commercial determinants of health framework, the multifaceted ways in which cryptocurrency firm operations may impact health outcomes are highlighted. Political influence is exerted through substantial donations, with high-profile cases illustrating the sector’s attempts to sway policy, whilst cryptocurrencies often operate in unregulated markets. Marketing strategies mirror those of traditional harmful industries, deploying immense advertising budgets and celebrity endorsements to promote highly speculative and risky financial products. Cryptocurrency mining, demanding considerable energy consumption, causes significant environmental damage. Financial practices include hundreds of outright frauds targeting low- and middle-income countries. Cryptocurrency investment, with 24/7 access and promises of huge wealth, mirrors gambling and is likely to result in public health harms through the same mechanisms as other forms of gambling. Despite the supposed potential of blockchain technology for improving payment and contract systems, the lack of realization of these benefits contrasts sharply with the immediate and growing costs associated with cryptocurrency speculation. Cryptoassets are a case study for the need for health promotion professionals to critically evaluate new technologies and advocate for regulatory measures to protect public health in the face of novel, high-risk products that overlap gambling and finance.