bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Phase changings in the surface layers of Td-WTe2 driven by alkali-metal deposition
Authors: Zhu 朱 Yu 玉 , Wang 王 Zheng-Guo 政国 , Ren 任 Yu-Jing 宇靖 , Yuan 袁 Peng-Hao 鹏浩 , Chen 陈 Jing-Zhi 景芝 , Ou 欧 Yi 仪 , Meng 孟 Li-Li 丽丽 , Zhang 张 Yan 焱
Published: December 2024

The discovery of phase changings in two-dimensional (2D) materials driven by external stimuli not only helps to understand the various intriguing phases in 2D materials but also provides directions for constructing new functional devices. Here, by combining angle-resolved photoemission spectroscopy (ARPES) and in-situ alkali-metal deposition, we studied how alkali-metal adatoms affect the electronic structure of Td-WTe2 on two different cleaved surfaces. We found that depending on the polarization direction of the cleaved surface, the alkali-metal deposition triggered two successive phase transitions on one surface of WTe2, while on the other surface, no phase transition was found. We attributed the observed phase transitions to a Td↑–1T′–Td↓ structural transition driven by an alkali-metal induced sliding of WTe2 layers. By comparing the band structure obtained in different structural phases of WTe2, we found that the evolution of band structure across different phases is characterized by an energy scale that could be related to the degree of orbital hybridization between two adjacent WTe2 layers. Our results demonstrate a method that manipulates the surface structure of bulk 2D materials. It also builds a direct correlation between the electronic structure and the degree of interlayer misalignment in this intriguing 2D material.
Novel AIRTrode-based wearable electrode supports long-term, online brain–computer interface operations
Authors: H Liu Deland , Hsieh Ju-Chun , Alawieh Hussein , Kumar Satyam , Iwane Fumiaki , Pyatnitskiy Ilya , Ahmad Zoya J , Wang Huiliang , Millán José del R
Published: December 2024

Objective. Non-invasive electroencephalograms (EEG)-based brain–computer interfaces (BCIs) play a crucial role in a diverse range of applications, including motor rehabilitation, assistive and communication technologies, holding potential promise to benefit users across various clinical spectrums. Effective integration of these applications into daily life requires systems that provide stable and reliable BCI control for extended periods. Our prior research introduced the AIRTrode, a self-adhesive (A), injectable (I), and room-temperature (RT) spontaneously-crosslinked hydrogel electrode (AIRTrode). The AIRTrode has shown lower skin-contact impedance and greater stability than dry electrodes and, unlike wet gel electrodes, does not dry out after just a few hours, enhancing its suitability for long-term application. This study aims to demonstrate the efficacy of AIRTrodes in facilitating reliable, stable and long-term online EEG-based BCI operations. Approach. In this study, four healthy participants utilized AIRTrodes in two BCI control tasks–continuous and discrete–across two sessions separated by six hours. Throughout this duration, the AIRTrodes remained attached to the participants’ heads. In the continuous task, participants controlled the BCI through decoding of upper-limb motor imagery (MI). In the discrete task, the control was based on decoding of error-related potentials (ErrPs). Main Results. Using AIRTrodes, participants demonstrated consistently reliable online BCI performance across both sessions and tasks. The physiological signals captured during MI and ErrPs tasks were valid and remained stable over sessions. Lastly, both the BCI performances and physiological signals captured were comparable with those from freshly applied, research-grade wet gel electrodes, the latter requiring inconvenient re-application at the start of the second session. Significance. AIRTrodes show great potential promise for integrating non-invasive BCIs into everyday settings due to their ability to support consistent BCI performances over extended periods. This technology could significantly enhance the usability of BCIs in real-world applications, facilitating continuous, all-day functionality that was previously challenging with existing electrode technologies.
Thermomechanical approach to calculating mechanical stresses in inhomogeneous fluids and its applications to ionic fluids
Authors: Budkov Yury A , Kalikin Nikolai N , Brandyshev Petr E
Published: December 2024

This extended article presents a thermomechanical approach for calculating the stress tensor from the thermodynamic potential of inhomogeneous fluids and some applications to ionic fluids. The technique, based on the invariance of the fluid’s thermodynamic potential with respect to spatial transformations of translation and rotation, offers an alternative to the general covariant approach developed by two of the authors. We apply this technique to both pure mean-field theories of fluids in general and a theory that includes thermal fluctuations of the order parameter, using the example of ionic fluids. Additionally, we apply the thermomechanical approach to fluid models with vector order parameters, such as liquid dielectrics. For this case, we obtain a general expression for the stress tensor. Furthermore, we discuss specific issues related to the calculation of disjoining pressure in ionic fluids confined in nanoscale slit-like pores with metal or dielectric walls, using the Coulomb gas model. To test the robustness of the proposed approach, we reproduce a number of known results from the statistical theory of inhomogeneous fluids and obtain several new ones.
Design and Implementation of a Solar Powered Molecular Sieve Chrysanthemum Drying Device
Authors: Wang Xiangyan , Liu Shilin , Fang Xiaohong
Published: December 2024

Chrysanthemum is a commonly used traditional Chinese medicine. Facing the high moisture content, easy decay and spoilage, and intolerance to storage of fresh chrysanthemums; Addressing the demand for chrysanthemum processing technology and the current issues of low automation and high energy consumption in chrysanthemum drying; A solar powered molecular sieve drying device was developed using the dehumidification characteristics of molecular sieves to solve the drying problem of chrysanthemum processing. At the same time, the device has an auxiliary electric heating function to meet the requirements of different drying methods for chrysanthemum processing under different weather conditions. Practical verification has shown that the molecular sieve drying device based on solar energy can well meet the process requirements of different drying methods for chrysanthemums, and has the characteristics of green environmental protection, low power consumption, high production efficiency, and good drying quality.
Path Planning for Robotic Welding of V-bevels on Thick Plate
Authors: Xue Haichao , Wen Yongce , Sun Junsheng , Shi Bin
Published: December 2024

Based on the contour-type weld filling strategy, a welding path planning model for thick plate V-bevel robot is established. The model includes parameters such as welding gun position, inclination angle, swing, welding current, etc. It realizes that only 2 different cross-sectional area weld paths are needed for each layer to complete the filling of the bevel, and avoids frequent changes of the welding process parameters. The establishment of this model provides a theoretical basis for the process design of thick plate beveling.
The Application and Research of Domestic and International Rural Area Domestic Sewage Treatment Technologies-A Review
Authors: Li Xiaolin
Published: December 2024

In recent years, with the development of the rural economy and the gradual improvement of living standards, the production of domestic sewage in rural areas has increased sharply, and there are significant differences in water quality and quantity in different regions. However, due to the strong dispersion and difficulty in collection of domestic sewage discharge in rural areas, as well as the imperfect sewage treatment facilities in rural areas, the selection of technology for rural domestic sewage treatment is not scientific, and the treatment rate has been consistently low. This is in significant contrast to the goals of rural construction in China’s new era. Therefore, this paper provides a review of the applicability of various rural domestic sewage treatment technologies in different regions at home and abroad, with the aim of providing decision-making support for the selection of sewage treatment technologies in rural areas.
Influence of Various Levels of Sodium Selenite on the Development of Oryza sativa
Authors: Guo Weichao , He Junxian , Yan Jingfu , Huang Huiping , Lin Qiaoling , Liu Ying
Published: December 2024

In order to explore the influence of selenium (Se) on the development of rice, various levels of sodium selenite (Na2SeO3) were treated on rice in the present study. The results showed that under the condition of 13-104 μmol/L Na2SeO3 treatment in comparison with the control group (0 μmol/L Na2SeO3 treatment), the plant height of rice in the experimental group decreased by 8.72%-47.36%; fresh weight and dry weight decreased by 67.5%-88.35% and 64.52%-87.82%, respectively. In addition, high selenium treatment also significantly increased the antioxidant activity of rice, and the enzyme activities of CAT, SOD and POD were up-regulated by 16.07%-48.21%, 20.94%-73.00%, and 34.65%-53.65%, respectively. Rice might regulate the stress response system in vivo through those reactions, so as to resist the adverse environmental stress. The findings of this research could establish theoretical basis for the cultivation of Se-rich rice.
Characterisation of SiC radiation detector technologies with synchrotron X-rays
Authors: Lopez Paz I. , Fleta C. , Rafí J.M. , Rius G. , Godignon P. , Pellegrini G. , Mena S. , Jimenez M. , Henao A. , Bravo J. , Boer R. , Molas B. , Guardiola C.
Published: December 2024

To cope with environments with high levels of radiation,
non-silicon semiconductors such as silicon carbide detectors are
being proposed for instrumentation.

4H-SiC diodes for radiation detection have been fabricated in the
IMB-CNM Clean Room, for which different strategies to define the
electrical contact of the implants had been implemented, in an
attempt to optimise the technology for, e.g., medical applications
or low energy radiation detection, as the material choice can affect
the sensitivity of the device. Among these technologies, it is
included an epitaxially-grown graphene layer as part of the
electrical contact.

In this paper, a selection of four configurations of the IMB-CNM SiC
diodes are characterised in terms of radiation detector response.
Photodiode performance under 20 keV X-rays irradiation in the XALOC
beam line at ALBA Synchrotron is presented. Over-responses in the
range of 12–19% linked to the interaction of the radiation with the
metallic layers are observed. A good uniformity response as well as
a good linearity at 0 V bias is reported, even in the under-depleted
devices. This work exemplifies the good performance of SiC
detectors fabricated at IMB-CNM specifically for low-energy X ray
characterization at high X-ray intensities.
Carboxyl-functionalized multifunctional red-emitting carbon quantum dots as an ideal biomaterial
Authors: Wen Xi , Wang Chen , Liang Xinyu , Liu Shengxiu
Published: December 2024

Carbon quantum dots (CQDs) have been developed into a popular nanomaterial due to their abundant surface state, good biocompatibility, and excellent antimicrobial properties. However, CQDs with multiple functions, such as being red-emitting, having good antibacterial activity, and having excellent pH sensitivity, have rarely been reported. In this work, red-emitting CQDs (R-CQDs) with excellent optical properties and antimicrobial activity were prepared by a simple green hydrothermal method. In antimicrobial applications, the R-CQDs featured good antibacterial activity due to the generation of reactive oxygen species, indicating excellent photodynamic antimicrobial ability. In addition, the R-CQDs showed fine pH sensitivity, giving them potential as pH sensors to monitor the pH of wounds in real time. The promising potential application of R-CQDs for cell imaging was also demonstrated. In summary, we offer R-CQDs with good antibacterial and pH sensitivity as a potential nanomaterial for pH and antimicrobial monitoring of wounds, shedding light on the biomedical field.
Revisiting two-layer energy balance models for climate assessment
Authors: Tsutsui Junichi , Smith Chris
Published: December 2024

Given the pivotal role of probabilistic approaches with two-layer energy balance models in the latest climate assessment, this study aims to gain deeper insight into their advancement by comparing different approaches for generating constrained posterior ensembles. Several methodological improvements are possible both in the calibration of model parameters to the behavior of comprehensive Earth system models and in constraining the calibrated parameter ensemble with other lines of evidence. The results imply that a conventional single parameter representing evolving climate feedback characteristics is not a requirement for reliable climate projections; rather, there are potential improvements on the forcing side regarding the separation of forcing and feedbacks. Constraining the ensemble based on observational and expert-assessed climate metrics, which critically affects probabilistic climate assessment, needs to appropriately deal with different constraints on a multivariate space in a standardized and flexible way. The method introduced here is an option that fulfills the need.
Random eigenvalues of graphenes and the triangulation of plane
Authors: Bille Artur , Buchstaber Victor , Coste Simon , Kuriki Satoshi , Spodarev Evgeny
Published: December 2024

We analyze the numbers of closed paths of length

k
∈

N

on two important regular lattices: the hexagonal lattice (also called graphene in chemistry) and its dual triangular lattice. These numbers form a moment sequence of specific random variables connected to the distance of a position of a planar random flight (in three steps) from the origin. Here, we refer to such a random variable as a random eigenvalue of the underlying lattice. Explicit formulas for the probability density and characteristic functions of these random eigenvalues are given for both the hexagonal and the triangular lattice. Furthermore, it is proven that both probability distributions can be approximated by a functional of the random variable uniformly distributed on increasing intervals

[
0
,
b
]

as

b
→
∞

. This yields a straightforward method to simulate these random eigenvalues without generating graphene and triangular lattice graphs. To demonstrate this approximation, we first prove a key integral identity for a specific series containing the third powers of the modified Bessel functions In
of nth order,

n
∈

Z

. Such series play a crucial role in various contexts, in particular, in analysis, combinatorics, and theoretical physics.
Global Trends of Research on Red Mud Utilization as an Adsorbent: A Bibliometric Analysis
Authors: Sutrisno Hendri , Trihadiningrum Yulinah , Ekaputri Januarti Jaya , Yuniarto Adhi
Published: December 2024

Red mud, a byproduct of alumina extraction, presents signiPicant environmental and economic challenges due to its substantial global accumulation, projected to reach 3.4 - 4 billion tons by 2023. This study employs a bibliometric analysis to examine global trends in utilizing RM as an adsorbent for wastewater treatment. A total of 327 publications from the Scopus database (1977-2022) were analyzed using Scopus features and VOSviewer software to determine publication trends, leading contributors, and key research themes. Results reveal an increasing interest in RM utilization, reaching a peak in publication volume in 2021. Environmental Science emerged as the dominant research area (30%), followed by Chemistry and Chemical Engineering. China and India were recognized as leading contributors to this Pield. Four major research clusters emerged: composite materials, pollutant sources, pollutant types, and adsorbent performance, with a primary focus on dyes and heavy metals. This study highlights the signiPicant potential of RM as a sustainable adsorbent for wastewater treatment. Key research directions identiPied include RM optimization, adsorbent regeneration, industrial implementation, and interdisciplinary collaborations.
The Analysis of Magnetic Electricity Physics Teaching Materials Based on Environment in Senior High School
Authors: Husna Nurul , Sahyar
Published: December 2024

This study analyzes the integration of green energy concepts, energy efficiency, and sustainable development in high school physics teaching materials on electricity and magnetism. This study involves 10 physics teachers from high schools in Medan, consisting of 5 government high school teachers and 5 private high school teachers who have professional certification. The sampling technique used is a mixed method that combines qualitative and quantitative data. The research was conducted in Medan, Indonesia. For data analysis, descriptive statistical techniques were used for quantitative data, while qualitative data were analyzed using the Miles and Huberman approach. This study assesses the relevance and effectiveness of the current teaching materials. The research results show that the highest score of 73.25% in respondents’ perceptions is on the relevance of teaching materials to basic physics concepts, while the lowest score of 49.75% is on the effectiveness of the materials in enhancing students’ understanding of green energy and energy efficiency. This study recommends the development of more integrated and contextually relevant teaching materials to enhance students’ understanding and engagement with global sustainability issues. The implications of this study indicate that integrating green energy and sustainability into physics education not only enhances the relevance of the curriculum but also increases students’ awareness of their roles in addressing global issues such as the energy crisis and climate change. This approach supports the Sustainable Development Goals (SDG 7 and SDG 13) and prepares students for future contributions to sustainable energy solutions.
The Role of Black Soldier Fly (Hermetia illucens) Larvae in Fresh Coffee Fruit Decomposition to Enhance the Organoleptic Parameters of the Roasted Coffee Beans
Authors: Ciptono  , Suhandoyo  , Harjana Tri
Published: December 2024

The Black Soldier Fly (Hermetia illucens) life cycle provides numerous benefits as a decomposer of organic materials. Its potency enhances the organoleptic parameters of roasted coffee beans. This study utilized a basic decomposed feeding medium, augmented with three types of coffee fruit: Arabica (A), Robusta (R), and Liberika (L), obtained from coffee plantations in the Magelang and Kendal Regencies. Aromatic compounds, including leaves from Basil (Ocimum sanctum - Ke), Katuk (Sauropus androgynus - Ka), Tea (Camellia sinensis - Te), and Beluntas (Pluchea indica - Lu), were also added. The treatments consisted of a positive control (K+) without aromatic leaves and a negative control (K-) without BSF larvae and aromatic leaves; all treatments were repeated three times. The rearing media box had a total weight of 500 grams. Each box was given 5 grams of biomass per box, five days after hatching larvae, until reaching the pupal period. Organoleptic parameters of roasted coffee beans resulting from the decomposition process of fresh fruit assisted by BSF larvae were evaluated by panel testers through tasting the coffee brews served. The taste was scored on a scale of 1 – 10 for all types of coffee and additional aromatic leaves. The organoleptic parameters test indicated that the sour taste score for all types of coffee and additional aromatic leaves was 3.92, reflecting a mild sour taste level to moderate. The bitter taste received a score of 3.98, indicating a mild to moderate intensity. The sweet taste, with an average score of 2.31, was very light. Meanwhile, the depth or aftertaste had an average score of 2.57, suggesting a relatively moderate intensity, especially for the sour and bitter taste of brewed coffee.
Kimchi from Vegetable Scrap as Implementation of Circular Economy – Case Study in Urban Area
Authors: Martono Viorenna Tannu , Montela Wendy , Venessa Michelle , Hendratno Setiani Putri , Romulo Andreas , John Lee Chuan Guan
Published: December 2024

This research aims that the vegetable scrap that can be used for making kimchi, can lower the vegetable waste in the modern market. The economic value of the kimchi from vegetable scrap can be seen from the factors including health and perceived value so that the kimchi can be sold to the public. The type of research carried out is mixed methods with the research methods such as observation, experiment, survey and interview. The research object that will be studied is kimchi made from vegetable scrap and respondents. The analyses that will be used are the result of processed data from experiment, survey and interview. The result that wants to be achieved is that the processed waste food product that can be produced from vegetable scrap at is kimchi. Processed kimchi is safe and suitable for eating. There are ninety percent of the respondents like the results of one-day fermentation from the scrap vegetables and have the desire to buy kimchi because of health factors and perceived value.
3D printed PGCL@PLA/10CSPL composite scaffolds loaded with fibronectin 1 for intervertebral disc degeneration treatment
Authors: Zhang Weilin , Chen Siyuan , Huang Shengbang , Li Zhencong , Wang Zhongwei , Dai Zhiwen , Liang Jinguo , Rong Hongrui , Ouyang Qianqian , Guo Weixiong , Wei Yen , Wei Jinsong
Published: December 2024

Restoration of disc height and biomechanical function is essential for intervertebral disc degeneration (IDD) treatment. Removing abnormal nucleus pulposus (NP) tissue is an important step to facilitate bony fusion during the healing process. We analyzed publicly available single-cell transcriptome data for human normal and degenerative NP to identify genes associated with NP degeneration. A novel poly(glycolide-co-caprolactone)@polylactide (PLA)-b-aniline pentamer (AP)-b-PLA/chitosan-ϵ-polylysine (PGCL@1PAP/10CSPL) scaffold with good biocompatibility and electroactivity was designed and fabricated as an implant for IDD treatment using 3D printing technology. The PGCL@1PAP/10CSPL scaffold exhibited superior hydrophilicity, mechanical properties, cytocompatibility, and antibacterial activity compared to PGCL. Fibronectin 1 (FN1), identified from single-cell transcriptome analysis, was loaded into the PGCL@1PAP/10CSPL scaffold to accelerate the abnormal NP degeneration. In vitro and in vivo experiments indicated that the PGCL@1PAP/10CSPL-FN1 scaffold enhanced osteogenic differentiation, promoted angiogenesis, and facilitated the removal of damaged disc tissue. This study introduces a novel implant system with desirable mechanical strength and unique bone-promoting and vascularizing properties for lumbar interbody fusion in IDD treatment.
The Nexus of Firearms and Organized Crime in Latin America
Authors: Pérez Ricart Carlos A
Published: December 2024

This chapter examines the paradox of Latin America’s disproportionate share of global homicides, despite being home to only 8 per cent of the world’s population. It examines the causes of this pervasive violence, attributing it primarily to the region’s widespread proliferation of illegal firearms, a significant portion of which originate in the United States. Through an analysis of both secondary literature and original research, the chapter highlights the critical role that firearms play in exacerbating criminal violence. It contends that the significant growth of organized crime in Latin America over the past two decades is inextricably linked to the surge of firearms from the US market. The chapter argues that firearms are central to the diversification and expansion of criminal enterprises such as drug trafficking, human trafficking, and protection rackets. It examines how the influx of weapons has strengthened the infrastructure of organized crime, making it more resilient and pervasive. It also discusses the various innovative strategies and interventions implemented to mitigate the impact of illicit firearms on organized crime. These include disarmament initiatives in Brazil and community-led interventions in Mexico that show promise in reducing violence and destabilizing criminal networks. Ultimately, the chapter aims to provide a nuanced and comprehensive understanding of the symbiotic relationship between gun violence and organized crime in Latin America. It underscores the urgent need for targeted policies and collaborative efforts to address the complex dynamics that fuel this violence, thereby contributing to the broader discourse on regional security and crime prevention.
Illicit Firearms Markets and Organized Crime in Africa
Authors: Falode Adewunmi J , Balogun Wasiu A
Published: December 2024

In a micro- and broader macro-level analysis, this chapter interrogates the context, nature, and impact of illicit firearms markets in Africa and their links with organized criminal networks. The study asserts that though Africa’s conflicts are somewhat interconnected, the continent’s firearms market is geographically segmented, with distinct patterns, dynamics, or preferences. Africa’s illegal arms market not only mirrors the legal arms economy; it feeds into it. The study also posits that the firearms markets in Africa exist in an intricate, mutually reinforcing relationship with organized crime. In light of this, this chapter emphasizes the urgent need for holistic, multi-dimensional, tailored strategies that account for the specific dynamics and nuances in Africa’s illicit arms markets, while also allowing for the involvement of regional and international cooperation to disrupt transnational criminal networks involved in Africa’s illicit firearms markets.
Firearms, Conflict, and Terrorism
Authors: Pauwels Annelies , Duquet Nils
Published: December 2024

This chapter aims to contribute to a better understanding of how terrorist organizations acquire and use firearms. It presents three case studies of terrorist acquisition and use of firearms in different regions of the world: the Taliban in Afghanistan, Jama’a Nusrat al-Islam wa al-Muslimin’ and the Islamic State Sahel Province in the Central Sahel, and terrorist networks and lone actors in the European Union. A meta-analysis of these case studies highlights how conflict plays an important role in facilitating terrorist access to firearms. The conflict–firearms–terrorism nexus operates in different ways, and the methods used to acquire firearms depend on the dynamics of the conflict in which terrorist groups are engaged, the broader socio-political and cultural environment of the region, and the resources and capabilities of the group. The case studies also illustrate how the possession and use of firearms plays a crucial role not only in furthering a group’s immediate and direct objectives but also in its long-term and strategic goals, particularly state-building and governance efforts.
Conclusion
Authors: Bright David
Published: December 2024

This concluding chapter provides an integrated overview of the themes and issues covered across the chapters of the book, including themes related to the regions and countries discussed across Part 1 and the those emerging from the substantive content covered in Part 2. The first section of the chapter provides a review of the themes and issues that characterize the interrelationships between organized crime and firearms trafficking across the globe. Emerging from this section of the book are a clear set of potential risks and future trends. There is a need to monitor such trends, foresee potential areas of challenge and risk, and respond effectively to address these emerging and potential risks and threats. The second section of this concluding chapter draws together the policy recommendations across all chapters to construct an integrated policy roadmap for the future for the prevention and intervention of harms that occur at the intersections between firearms trafficking, organized criminal activities and organized criminal groups.
America's Military Biomedical Complex
Authors: Parasidis Efthimios
Published: December 2024

This book is the first to trace the fascinating story of how laws and ethical codes have co-evolved with the nation’s military science pursuits, dating back to the founding of the United States. It details scores of examples where untoward conduct has been rationalized as necessary to promote national security and achieve military goals. This includes hazardous research on unsuspecting individuals, military field tests across the country with atomic, biological, and chemical weapons, and the creation of biomedical enhancements that are poised to become essential elements of military missions. Due to secrecy mandates, governmental immunities, and lackluster healthcare, many individuals injured by these actions have been left without legal remedies or adequate means to address their injuries. The book shows how the drive for scientific and military superiority has shifted the moral compass of government and society. Without passing retrospective judgment, it details the moral calculus of decision makers at key moments in military science. This analysis reveals that officials were keenly aware of ethical dilemmas but nonetheless chose to engage in risky—and sometimes unlawful—activities to advance pressing national security goals. Coupled with this historical reflection, the book recommends policies that harmonize contemporary national security concerns with fundamental principles of justice, fairness, and human dignity. It introduces the concept of jus in praeparatione bellum—justice in war preparations—a doctrine of restraint and responsibility that aims to elucidate just and unjust means of preparing for war. The book applies jus in praeparatione bellum to contemporary military science pursuits, and proposes new laws and policies to guide military science projects.
Military Medicine During the American Revolutionary War
Authors: Parasidis Efthimios
Published: December 2024

This chapter details the development of military medicine during the American Revolutionary War. It describes the austere beginnings of the Army Hospital Department and the organizational framework of military medical facilities, including regimental physicians and medical care in general military hospitals. The chapter outlines key medical advancements from the war, including the development of a new battlefield triage system, preventive health measures for military installations, and a force-wide system for smallpox variolation. With respect to smallpox variolation, the chapter describes the process of inoculation and provides firsthand accounts of the ethical, clinical, and operational challenges of instituting a force-wide smallpox variolation program. This includes ethical debate surrounding forced inoculation and whether the practice violates the medical autonomy of soldiers or constitutes an affront to God’s will.
A Postbellum Renaissance in Military Medicine and Research
Authors: Parasidis Efthimios
Published: December 2024

This chapter details the expansion of medical research during the late nineteenth and early twentieth centuries. The development of the germ theory of disease and a plethora of new or improved medical instruments facilitated the progress of medicine, preventive health, and medical research. As the chapter explains, however, these medical advancements came at a significant cost, as scientific progress necessitated using humans in experimentation. Scores of studies were conducted on vulnerable populations, including disabled children, terminally ill patients, and adults with mental illness. Permissive laws facilitated the research, and medical organizations refused calls to implement ethical guidelines. During this era, the military played a leading role in the research and was at the vanguard of establishing ethical protocols for some studies. The military medical establishment also underwent substantial organizational improvements that facilitated the provision of high-quality healthcare.
Military Medicine and the Persian Gulf War
Authors: Parasidis Efthimios
Published: December 2024

This chapter explores military medicine during the Persian Gulf War of 1990–1991, with an emphasis on the military’s efforts to use medical countermeasures (pyridostigmine bromide (PB) tablets, the botulinum toxoid (BT) vaccine, and the anthrax vaccine) as prophylaxis for anticipated chemical and biological warfare, despite the fact the countermeasures were not FDA-approved for these uses. It details the FDA’s review of the countermeasures before the war and the informed consent waivers negotiated between the FDA and the Department of Defense. The chapter also describes the legal challenges brought by service members to the informed consent waivers, and the FDA’s eventual revocation of the regulation that permitted informed consent waivers. Finally, it analyzes the potential causes of Gulf War Illness, including countermeasures.
Standardizing and Expanding Military Science Ethics Reviews
Authors: Parasidis Efthimios
Published: December 2024

This chapter advocates for standardizing and expanding military science ethics reviews. It recommends that the Department of Defense create a department for military science ethics review that conducts ethics reviews for military science projects, even if such reviews are not legally required. As the chapter details, ethics reviews should occur at three stages throughout the life cycle of military science projects: research, field testing, and operational use. Within this framework, specialized consideration should be afforded to operationalizing military human enhancements, including a holistic framework for evaluating biomedical interventions that assesses ethical, legal, and societal concerns. As the chapter further contends, ethics reviews should be legally mandated to comport with international treaties and normative principles embedded in customary international law, and compliance with the legal requirement to conduct ethics reviews should be a factor that courts consider when presented with a case that alleges harm caused by a military science pursuit.
Conclusion
Authors: Parasidis Efthimios
Published: December 2024

This chapter describes how competition between nations includes a drive to develop and acquire the newest and most technologically advanced weapons of war. It discusses how military science pursuits often have resulted in extraordinary achievements, but also how there have been scores of examples where untoward conduct has been rationalized as necessary to promote national security and achieve military goals. The chapter summarizes the toll on American society, how laws and ethical codes have been rewritten to facilitate military science endeavors, and how military science pursuits have caused a shift in the moral compass of government and society. The chapter contends that a nation has a moral obligation to adopt and implement appropriate safeguards in war preparations that adequately protect citizens and military personnel.
Exploring the potential of large language model–based chatbots in challenges of ribosome profiling data analysis: a review
Authors: Ding Zheyu , Wei Rong , Xia Jianing , Mu Yonghao , Wang Jiahuan , Lin Yingying
Published: December 2024

Ribosome profiling (Ribo-seq) provides transcriptome-wide insights into protein synthesis dynamics, yet its analysis poses challenges, particularly for nonbioinformatics researchers. Large language model–based chatbots offer promising solutions by leveraging natural language processing. This review explores their convergence, highlighting opportunities for synergy. We discuss challenges in Ribo-seq analysis and how chatbots mitigate them, facilitating scientific discovery. Through case studies, we illustrate chatbots’ potential contributions, including data analysis and result interpretation. Despite the absence of applied examples, existing software underscores the value of chatbots and the large language model. We anticipate their pivotal role in future Ribo-seq analysis, overcoming limitations. Challenges such as model bias and data privacy require attention, but emerging trends offer promise. The integration of large language models and Ribo-seq analysis holds immense potential for advancing translational regulation and gene expression understanding.
Beta-hydroxybutyrate alters bovine preimplantation embryo development through transcriptional and epigenetic mechanisms
Authors: Sangalli Juliano Rodrigues , Nociti Ricardo Perecin , Chiaratti Marcos Roberto , Bridi Alessandra , Botigelli Ramon Cesar , Ambrizi Dewison Ricardo , de Almeida Saraiva Helena Fabiana Reis , Perecin Felipe , da Silveira Juliano Coelho , Ross Pablo Juan , Meirelles Flávio Vieira
Published: December 2024

Developing embryos are susceptible to fluctuations in the nutrients and metabolites concentrations within the reproductive tract, which can lead to alterations in their developmental trajectory. Ketotic dairy cows have diminished fertility, and elevated levels of the ketone body beta-hydroxybutyrate (BHB) have been associated with poor embryonic development. We used an in vitro model based on either in vitro fertilization (IVF) or parthenogenesis to investigate the effects of BHB on the preimplantation bovine embryo development, epigenome, and transcriptome. Embryo culture medium was supplemented with BHB at a similar concentration to that present in the blood of cows suffering with severe ketosis, followed by analysis of blastocysts formation rate, diameter, total number of cells, levels of H3K9 beta-hydroxybutyrylation (H3K9bhb), apoptosis, and transcriptional alterations. As a result, we observed that BHB reduced the blastocysts rates, the diameter and the total number of cells in both parthenotes and IVF embryos. Exposure to BHB for either 3 or 7 days greatly increased the H3K9bhb levels in parthenotes at the 8-cells and blastocyst stages, and affected the expression of HDAC1, TET1, DNMT1, KDM6B, NANOG, and MTHFD2 genes. Additionally, culture of IVF embryos with BHB for 7 days dramatically increased H3K9bhb and reduced NANOG in blastocysts. RNA-seq analysis of IVF blastocysts revealed that BHB modulated the expression of 118 genes, which were involved with biological processes such as embryonic development, implantation, reproduction, proliferation, and metabolism. These findings provided valuable insights into the mechanisms through which BHB disrupts preimplantation embryonic development and affects the fertility in dairy cows.
A generalized logrank-type test for comparison of treatment regimes in sequential multiple assignment randomized trials
Authors: Tsiatis Anastasios A , Davidian Marie
Published: December 2024

The sequential multiple assignment randomized trial (SMART) is the ideal study design for the evaluation of multistage treatment regimes, which comprise sequential decision rules that recommend treatments for a patient at each of a series of decision points based on their evolving characteristics. A common goal is to compare the set of so-called embedded regimes represented in the design on the basis of a primary outcome of interest. In the study of chronic diseases and disorders, this outcome is often a time to an event, and a goal is to compare the distributions of the time-to-event outcome associated with each regime in the set. We present a general statistical framework in which we develop a logrank-type test for comparison of the survival distributions associated with regimes within a specified set based on the data from a SMART with an arbitrary number of stages that allows incorporation of covariate information to enhance efficiency and can also be used with data from an observational study. The framework provides clarification of the assumptions required to yield a principled test procedure, and the proposed test subsumes or offers an improved alternative to existing methods. We demonstrate performance of the methods in a suite of simulation studies. The methods are applied to a SMART in patients with acute promyelocytic leukemia.
Coalition-building for labor actions in life sciences departments: lessons from the largest academic strike in history
Authors: Ellis Aspen A , Beck Jessie N , Howard Elizabeth A , Rabearisoa Ando L , Alissa Louise M , Barasi Serena , Beltran Roxanne S , Bernardi Giacomo , Bernier Kathryn , Cronin Melissa R , Cruz Nicolás , Flores Iris , Gerraty Francis D , Goetz Laura , Harenčár Julia G , Kroeker Kristy J , Kurle Carolyn M , Lai Edith Y , Lederman-Beach Razi , Malakooti Nikka J V , Mason Sarah E , McElfish Maya M , McNelis Madeline , Molinari Megan M , Munro Cara M O , Nazario Emily C , Payne Allison R , Poudel Sushmita , Rivera Milagros Guadalupe , Slimp Madeline , Sridhar Nikita M , Tershy Bernie R , Third Georgia M , Uckele Kate A , Vilches Florencia O , Walker Benjamin J , Wishingrad Van , Witte Eric C , Yeager Mallarie E , Young Jordann K , Zilliacus Kelly M , Croll Donald A
Published: December 2024

In life sciences graduate programs in the United States, efforts are underway to address barriers to academic success—namely, using interventions targeted at addressing inclusivity and diversity concerns. However, graduate students are typically simultaneously workers for their institutions, where they face workplace challenges such as low wages, inadequate benefits, and vulnerability to harassment and abuse. These challenges may disproportionately affect workers with excluded identities and are thereby barriers to diversity and equity. In recent years, graduate student unionization has expanded. The outcomes of these movements may improve pay, benefits, and working conditions for graduate workers; however, labor organizing presents numerous challenges in academic environments. We reflect on our experiences in a life sciences department at the University of California, Santa Cruz, in 2022 during the largest graduate labor strike to date. We summarize the challenges and discuss successful interventions, including communication strategies for cross-stage coalition building at the departmental level.
Comment on ‘Oncogenic alterations in KIR3DL1 in cutaneous acral CD8+ lymphoproliferative disorder’ by Wobser et al.
Authors: Louveau Baptiste , Jouenne Fanélie , Ram-Wolff Caroline , Mancini Maxence , De Masson Adèle , Mourah Samia , Battistella Maxime
Published: December 2024

Identifying pathognomonic features that differentiate primary cutaneous acral CD8+ T-cell lymphoproliferative disorder (TLPD) from other CD8+ aggressive lymphomas is a major concern. Doing so can facilitate diagnosis and allow clinicians to optimize clinical management. In this context, we read with great interest the article from Wobser et al., which proposed a molecular characterization of five cutaneous acral CD8+ TLPDs and identified KIR3DL1 alterations in addition to PIK3R1 alterations. To broaden this spectrum, we propose genomic profiling of six cutaneous acral CD8+ TLPDs from our database and identify alterations related to oncogenic pathways such as the AKT pathway and the Janus kinase–signal transducer and activator of transcription protein pathway. We also confirm the decreased mRNA expression of KIR3DL1 in this setting.
Association between job strain and working life expectancy: a longitudinal study of older people in Sweden
Authors: Chungkham Holendro Singh , Högnäs Robin , Alexanderson Kristina , Zaninotto Paola , Farrants Kristin , Hyde Martin , Magnusson Hanson Linda L , Head Jenny , Rugulies Reiner , Larsen Ann Dyreborg , Vanajan Anushiya , Stenholm Sari , Westerlund Hugo
Published: December 2024

Many European countries have increased retirement ages to address the challenge of population ageing. However, job strain which is the combination of high job demands and low job control may be an obstacle to extending the working lives of older workers. Job strain is associated with poor health and early work exit among older workers, but less is known about whether job strain impacts working life expectancy (WLE)—an increasingly employed summary measure capturing the length of working lives. This study aims to fill this gap in the literature. The sample included n = 13 225 individuals aged 50 years or older at baseline providing 53 004 persons-observations from the Swedish Longitudinal Occupational Survey of Health in 2008 through 2020. We used continuous time multi-state Markov models to assess the average number of years people may be expected to work beyond age 50 years by job strain, and stratified by sex, occupational class, and level of education. Job strain was associated with a significantly shorter WLE (by about 6 months to a year) among those who experienced job strain compared to those who did not experience job strain. Our findings suggest that job strain may play a role in shortening the working lives of older people. The findings further suggest that if older workers are to remain in the labor market for longer periods, this may require improvements of psychosocial working conditions.
Divergence in expression of a singing-related neuroplasticity gene in the brains of 2 Ficedula flycatchers and their hybrids
Authors: Wheatcroft David , Backström Niclas , Dutoit Ludovic , McFarlane S Eryn , Mugal Carina F , Wang Mi , Ålund Murielle , Ellegren Hans , Qvarnström Anna
Published: December 2024

Species-specific sexual traits facilitate species-assortative mating by reducing mating across species and reducing hybrid sexual attractiveness. For learned sexual traits, such as song in oscine birds, species distinctiveness can be eroded when species co-occur. Transcriptional regulatory divergence in brain regions involved in sensory learning is hypothesized to maintain species distinctiveness, but relatively few studies have compared gene expression in relevant brain regions between closely related species. Species differences in song are an important premating reproductive barrier between the collared (Ficedula albicollis) and pied flycatcher (F. hypoleuca). Here, we compare brain gene expression in adult males from each species and their naturally occurring F1 hybrids. We report overall conserved expression across species in a portion of the brain containing regions and nuclei known to be involved in song responses and learning. Further, among those genes that were differentially expressed between species, we find largely intermediate expression in hybrids. A single gene, SYT4 (synaptotagmin 4), known to be singing-associated, both was differentially expressed and has a putative upstream transcriptional regulatory factor containing fixed differences between the 2 species. Although a finer-scale investigation limited to song-specific regions may reveal further species differences, our findings provide insight into regulatory divergence in the brain between closely related species.