bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Longitudinal assessment of cardiac status by echocardiographic evaluation of left ventricular diastolic function in thalassaemic children
Authors: Fiorillo A , Farina V , D'Amore R , Scippa L , Cortese P , DeChiara C
Published: June 2024

Fiorillo A, Farina V, D'Amore R, Scippa L, Cortese P. DeChiara C. Longitudinal assessment of cardiac status by echocardiographic evaluation of left ventricular diastolic function in thalassaemic children. Acta Pӕdiatr 2000; 89: 436‐41. Stockholm. ISSN 0803‐5253

Cardiac disease is the primary cause of death in patients affected by thalassaemia major. In most cases diastolic dysfunction precedes the onset of systolic impairment at a time when appropriate therapy can prevent progression of cardiac damage. We have assessed the pattern of left ventricular tilling by Doppler echocardiography in six transfusion‐dependent thalassaemic patients. They were re‐evaluated 5 y after the first observation, after additional blood transfusions and consequent iron load. We registered a significantly impaired relaxation pattern in all of them. A state of cardiac anoxia has been hypothesized.
Microplastic response of 2PP‐printed ceramics
Authors: Sänger Johanna C. , Riechers Birte , Pauw Brian R. , Maaß Robert , Günster Jens
Published: June 2024

Two‐photon polymerization (2PP) additive manufacturing (AM) utilizes feedstocks of ceramic nanoparticles of a few nanometers in diameter, enabling the fabrication of highly accurate technical ceramic design with structural details as small as 500 nm. The performance of these materials is expected to differ from conventional AM ceramics, as nanoparticles and three‐dimensional printing at high resolution introduce new microstructural aspects. This study applies 2PP‐AM of yttria‐stabilized zirconia to investigate the mechanical response behavior under compressive load, probing the influence of smallest structural units induced by the line packing during the printing process, design of sintered microblocks, and sintering temperature and thereby microstructure. We find a dissipative mechanical response enhanced by sintering at lower temperatures than conventional. The pursued 2PP‐AM approach yields a microstructured material with an increased number of grain boundaries that proposedly play a major role in facilitating energy dissipation within the here printed ceramic material. This microplastic response is further triggered by the filigree structures induced by hollow line packing at the order of the critical defect size of ceramics. Together, these unique aspects made accessible by the 2PP‐AM approach contribute to a heterogeneous nano‐ and microstructure, and hint toward opportunities for tailoring the mechanical response in future ceramic applications.
Regulatory T cells protect against diabetic cardiomyopathy in db/db mice
Authors: Zhang Kai , Li Yunyi , Ge Xiao , Meng Linlin , Kong Jing , Meng Xiao
Published: June 2024

Aims/Introduction

Regulatory T cells (Tregs) have protected against many cardiovascular diseases. This study was intended to explore the effect of Tregs on diabetic cardiomyopathy (DCM) using a db/db mouse model.

Materials and methods

Eight‐week‐old male db/db mice were randomly divided into four groups: the control group, administered 200 μL phosphate‐buffered saline; the small‐dose Treg group, administered 105 Tregs; the large‐dose Treg group, administered 106 Tregs; and the PC group, administered 100 μg anti‐CD25 specific antibody (PC61) and 106 Tregs. After 12 weeks, mice were euthanized. Transthoracic echocardiography was carried out at the beginning and end of the experiment. Relevant basic experiments to evaluate the effects of Tregs on DCM were carried out.

Results

Echocardiography showed that the impaired diastolic and systolic functions were significantly improved in mice administered large‐dose Tregs. Large‐dose Tregs significantly ameliorated myocardial hypertrophy and fibrosis, and decreased hypertrophic gene expression and collagen deposition. The protective effects of Tregs on diabetic hearts were associated with decreased oxidative stress, inflammatory response and apoptosis. In addition, Tregs promoted the activation of the phosphatidylinositol 3‐kinase–protein kinase B signaling pathway, whereas they inhibited extracellular signal‐regulated kinase 1/2 and Jun N‐terminal kinase phosphorylation, which might be responsible for the cardioprotective role of Tregs against DCM.

Conclusions

Tregs ameliorated myocardial hypertrophy and fibrosis, improved cardiac dysfunction, and protected against DCM progression in db/db mice. The mechanisms involved a decrease of inflammatory response, oxidative stress and apoptosis, which might be mediated by phosphatidylinositol 3‐kinase–protein kinase B and mitogen‐activated protein kinase pathways. Hence, Tregs might serve as a promising therapeutic approach for DCM treatment.
Proteomic characterization of Tenacibaculum dicentrarchi under iron limitation reveals an upregulation of proteins related to iron oxidation and reduction metabolism, iron uptake systems and gliding motility
Authors: Avendaño‐Herrera Ruben , Echeverría‐Bugueño Macarena , Hernández Mauricio , Saldivia Pablo , Irgang Rute
Published: June 2024

A strategy for vaccine design involves identifying proteins that could be involved in pathogen–host interactions. The aim of this proteomic study was to determine how iron limitation affects the protein expression of Tenacibaculum dicentrarchi, with a primary focus on virulence factors and proteins associated with iron uptake. The proteomic analysis was carried out using two strains of T. dicentrarchi grown under normal (control) and iron‐limited conditions, mimicking the host environment. Our findings revealed differences in the proteins expressed by the type strain CECT 7612T and the Chilean strain TdCh05 of T. dicentrarchi. Nonetheless, both share a common response to iron deprivation, with an increased expression of proteins associated with iron oxidation and reduction metabolism (e.g., SufA, YpmQ, SufD), siderophore transport (e.g., ExbD, TonB‐dependent receptor, HbpA), heme compound biosynthesis, and iron transporters under iron limitation. Proteins involved in gliding motility, such as GldL and SprE, were also upregulated in both strains. A negative differential regulation of metabolic proteins, particularly those associated with amino acid biosynthesis, was observed under iron limitation, reflecting the impact of iron availability on bacterial metabolism. Additionally, the TdCh05 strain exhibited unique proteins associated with gliding motility machinery and phage infection control compared to the type strain. These groups of proteins have been identified as virulence factors within the Flavobacteriaceae family, including the genus Tenacibaculum. These results build upon our previous report on iron acquisition mechanisms and could lay the groundwork for future studies aimed at elucidating the role of some of the described proteins in the infectious process of tenacibaculosis, as well as in the development of potential vaccines.
Exploring the use of fatty acid ethyl esters as a potential natural solution for the treatment of fish parasitic diseases
Authors: Jawaji Arunjyothi , Goldberg Inna Khozin , Zilberg Dina
Published: June 2024

Alternatives to conventional chemical treatments for parasitic diseases in fish are needed. Microalgal‐sourced fatty acid ethyl esters (FAEEs) have shown an antiparasitic effect against Gyrodactylus turnbulli infection in guppies. Here, we tested a range of commercial FAEEs of various carbon chain lengths and unsaturation levels against two fish parasites. Guppies and barramundi infected with G. turnbulli and Trichodina sp., respectively, were used. The most effective FAEE, after excluding those toxic to fish, was ethyl laurate (12:0). For both parasites, the LD50 was 18.75 μM within 250 min of incubation. Ethyl eicosapentaenoate (20:5n3) was the next most effective FAEE against G. turnbulli, and dihomo‐γ‐linolenic acid ethyl ester (20:3n6) and ethyl α‐linolenate (18:3n3) were the next most effective against Trichodina sp. In addition, FAEEs prepared from the microalga Phaeodactylum tricornutum residue, after fucoxanthin extraction, were examined against Trichodina sp. infection in barramundi for the first time. LD85 and LD100 was achieved at 2.5 and 5 μL mL−1 of the FAEE preparation, respectively. In vivo, immersion of infected barramundi in 1.25 μL mL−1 of this preparation for 24 h reduced infection prevalence from 100% to 53% and was non‐toxic to fish.
Effectiveness of electroacupuncture on postoperative ileus prevention after abdominal surgery: A systematic review and trial sequential analysis of randomized controlled trials
Authors: Yuan Lu , Quan Si‐Jie , Li Xin‐Yu , Huang Yan‐Bing , Li Yan‐Qiu , Zheng Hui
Published: June 2024

Background

We aimed to verify the effectiveness of electroacupuncture on postoperative ileus prevention after abdominal surgery by meta‐analysis and trial sequential analysis (TSA).

Methods

From inception to May 14, 2024, PubMed, the Cochrane Library, Web of Science, and Embase databases were searched. TSA was used to determine an optimal sample size and control false‐positive findings. The primary outcome was the time to first defecation (hours).

Results

Fourteen studies were included, with 1105 participants. Meta‐analysis and TSA revealed firm evidence for benefits that electroacupuncture shorted the time to first defecation (mean difference [MD] −12.73 h, I2 = 22%, P < 0.01), the time to first flatus (MD −7.03 h, I2 = 25%, P < 0.01), the time to start of sips of water (MD −12.02 h, I2 = 0%, P < 0.01), and the time to start of liquid diet (MD −12.97 h, I2 = 0%, P < 0.01) compared with usual care. While compared with sham electroacupuncture, meta‐analysis and TSA also confirmed that electroacupuncture shortened the time to first defecation (MD −10.81 h, I2 = 31%, P = 0.02) and the time to first flatus (MD −10.81 h, I2 = 0%, P < 0.01). However, TSA revealed that firm evidence for benefit or futility was not reached for the length of hospital stay and the rates of postoperative prolonged ileus.

Conclusions

Electroacupuncture shortened the duration of postoperative ileus in patients undergoing abdominal surgery, and the adverse events related to electroacupuncture were minor. Further investigation of the effect of electroacupuncture on the risk of prolonged postoperative ileus is warranted in the future.
Cerebrospinal fluid concentration gradients of catechols in synucleinopathies
Authors: Goldstein David S. , Sullivan Patti , Holmes Courtney
Published: June 2024

The synucleinopathies Parkinson disease (PD), multiple system atrophy (MSA), and the Lewy body form of pure autonomic failure (PAF) entail intra‐cytoplasmic deposition of the protein alpha‐synuclein and pathogenic catecholaminergic neurodegeneration. Cerebrospinal fluid (CSF) levels of catecholamines and their metabolites are thought to provide a “neurochemical window” on central catecholaminergic innervation and can identify specific intra‐neuronal dysfunctions in synucleinopathies. We asked whether there are CSF concentration gradients for catechols such as 3,4‐dihydroxyphenylacetic acid (DOPAC), the main neuronal metabolite of dopamine, and if so whether the gradients influence neurochemical differences among synucleinopathies. In a retrospective cohort study, we reviewed data about concentrations of catechols in the first, sixth, and twelfth 1‐mL aliquots from 33 PD, 28 MSA, and 15 PAF patients and 41 controls. There were concentration gradients for DOPAC, dopamine, norepinephrine, and 3,4‐dihydroxyphenylglycol (the main neuronal metabolite of norepinephrine) and gradients in the opposite direction for 5‐S‐cysteinyldopa and 5‐S‐cysteinyldopamine. In all 3 aliquots, CSF DOPAC was low in PD and MSA compared with controls (p < 0.0001 each) and normal in PAF. Synucleinopathies differ in CSF catechols regardless of concentration gradients. Concentration gradients for 5‐S‐cysteinyl derivatives in opposite directions from the parent catechols may provide biomarkers of spontaneous oxidation in the CSF space.

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Efficacy of fractional radiofrequency in the treatment of erythematous capillary rosacea: A split‐face study
Authors: Li Dongqing , Li Yujing , Yang Zhi , Chen Jiaoyu , Yang Dengrong , Wang Jinlai , Xiong Haojun
Published: June 2024

Objective

To assess the effectiveness and safety of treating erythematotelangiectatic rosacea using fractional radiofrequency (FRF).

Methods

Twenty patients with a confirmed diagnosis of erythema capillaris rosacea were selected, and one side of each patient's face was randomly assigned to receive FRF treatments for three to six times, with an interval of 2 weeks between each treatment. VISIA, dermoscopy, and the Clinician's Erythema Evaluation Scale (CEA) were applied to evaluate the efficacy of the treatment before and after the treatment, to record the VAS scores and adverse reactions, and to conduct a patient satisfaction survey.

Results

The characteristic counts and scores of red zone and porphyrin as assessed by VISIA test were significantly decreased, and the difference between the treated side and the pretreatment side was statistically significant (p < 0.05), and the efficacy of the treatment was statistically insignificant compared with the control side, except for the red zone and porphyrin which were statistically significant before and after the treatment (p > 0.05). By CEA score, the difference between the treated side after treatment and the control side was statistically significant (p < 0.05), and the difference between the treated side before and after treatment was statistically significant (p < 0.05); the difference between the control side before and after treatment was not statistically significant (p > 0.05). Dermatoscopic observation showed reduction in pore size, reduction of yellowish‐white and black horn plugs within the pores, lightening of the red background and thinning and blurring of the capillary structure on the treated side of the skin compared to the control side, and the skin on the treated side showed the above mentioned changes before and after the treatment as well. The mean pain score of the subjects was obtained by VAS score 3.67 ± 0.90. Adverse effects included mild edema, erythema, and microscopic crusting; no long‐term adverse effects were seen in all patients. The efficacy of FRF treatment was evaluated 1 month after the final treatment, and 85% of the subjects rated it as satisfactory, very satisfactory, and very satisfactory.

Conclusion

FRF for the treatment of erythematous capillary dilatation rosacea is effective, safe, and suitable for clinical promotion.
The flexibilization of intellectual property rights in cases of health crises: A case study of Brazil in the face of the AIDS and COVID sanitary crises
Authors: Varella Marcelo Dias , de Oliveira Katia Adriana Cardoso
Published: June 2024

Intellectual property (IP) law is traditionally considered rigid, with little room for maneuvering in crisis cases. In this article, through three case studies, we discuss how health crises have affected IP rights, especially in Brazil, and the relationship of Brazilian decision‐making with internationally accepted legal frameworks. In the first case, on the AIDS crisis, we discuss the initiatives of compulsory licenses in Brazil and the debate on the Doha Declaration on public health, in which the international community recognized the national margin of appreciation of TRIPs in specific cases, making the Brazilian government's action viable. In the second case, on COVID, we discuss some proposals for waiver of IP rights that, although not effectively implemented, were important to pressure economic players to find solutions to transfer technology and expand the production of newly discovered vaccines, with the transfer of technology and expansion of Brazilian vaccine factories. In the third case, also on COVID, we discuss how the health crisis induced the Brazilian Judiciary, Executive, and Legislative branches to change different points of the IP law that had been under discussion for many years and reduced the extent of these rights, to increase access to medicines, but limited by international minimum standards. We conclude that IP law is essential for developing new drugs to deal with health crises. At the same time, these crises are essential for constructing Law that prevents abuses by dominant economic actors.
Response of zooxanthellate scleractinian corals to elevation of seawater temperature during summer in a temperate Japanese coastal sea (Takashima, Japan)
Authors: Kato Sho , Ito Maiko , Miyahara Kotaro , Fukumura Manabu , Komura Shuzo , Yamaguchi Masahiro , Takasu Hiroyuki
Published: June 2024

In contrast to tropical and subtropical regions, where coral abundance is declining due to elevated summer seawater temperatures, expansions of coral ranges have been reported in temperate Japanese regions due to an increase in seawater temperature. However, the vulnerability of corals in temperate Japanese regions to elevated summer seawater temperatures is not well known. In this study, we assessed the bleaching state of corals with elevated seawater temperatures during summer in a temperate Japanese coastal sea around Takashima Island, using an underwear color reference card (Coral Health Chart). This study showed that the color of temperate corals turned pale with increasing seawater temperature during summer. However, the corals did not reach a bleached state. Approaching a typhoon may contribute to maintenance of coral health at Takashima Beach by mitigating high seawater temperatures during summer and preventing the accumulation of thermal stress in corals.
Reverse nocturnal blood pressure dipping in Parkinson's disease is affected by physical activity but not sleep disturbances
Authors: Deguchi Kazushi , Ikeda Kazuyo , Touge Tetsuo , Morishita Asahiro , Kobara Hideki , Masaki Tsutomu
Published: June 2024

Background

Individuals with Parkinson's disease (PD) often have reverse nocturnal blood pressure (BP) dipping, which might affect their risks of target organ damage, cardiovascular events, and premature death. The factors that are relevant to reverse BP dipping in PD patients are unknown.

Aim

We investigated the relationship between reverse nocturnal BP dipping and daily physical activity and the nocturnal sleep state in PD.

Methods

Sixty‐seven patients with PD underwent demographic analyses and a postural challenge for detecting orthostatic hypotension, followed by 24‐h ambulatory blood pressure monitoring. All patients completed the Parkinson's Disease Questionaire‐39 (PDQ‐39) concerning their quality of life and the Parkinson's Disease Sleep Scale‐2 (PDSS‐2) regarding sleep disturbances.

Results

Our analysis of the patients' circadian BP rhythms identified dippers (n = 22 patients, 33%), non‐dippers (n = 25, 37%), and reverse dippers (n = 20, 30%). The PDQ‐39 revealed that the reverse dippers had a significantly higher summary index and higher mobility, emotional well‐being, and stigma scores than the non‐dippers and dippers, suggesting an association with physical activity. On the PDSS‐2, the scores for sleep disturbances, nocturnal motor symptoms, and nocturnal PD symptoms as well as the total score were comparable among the dipper, non‐dipper, and reverse dipper groups.

Conclusion

The reverse nocturnal BP dipping in PD was suggested to be due in part to decreased physical activity. No association between reverse nocturnal BP reduction and sleep disturbances was demonstrated. Further investigations of reverse nocturnal BP dipping and physical activity might yield new strategies to improve PD patients' life expectancy.
Thoracic canal morphology on preoperative magnetic resonance imaging in spinal cord stimulation patients
Authors: Hines Kevin , Tran Christian , Koka Anusha , Mouchtouris Nikolaos , Hafazalla Karim , Hattar Ellina , Wu Chengyuan , Sharan Ashwini
Published: June 2024

Introduction

In high‐frequency spinal cord stimulation anatomic placement targeting of the T9‐10 disc space is based on “empiric” results that are best replicated with coverage broadly from T8 to T10. This study contains the largest cohort of patients evaluating low thoracic morphology and seeks to address the lack of MRI morphological analysis in literature.

Methods

This study was a retrospective review of a database of 101 consecutive patients undergoing permanent implant of thoracic SCS for chronic pain. Measurements were carried out on preoperative MRI imaging. Anteroposterior (AP) and lateral dimensions of the spinal cord as well as dural sac were measured. In addition, dorsal cerebrospinal fluid thickness and paddle depression distance were also measured.

Results

When comparing morphological dimensions by level, dorsal CSF thickness was smaller at T9‐10 than T7‐8 (p = 0.018). In addition, lateral dural and spinal cord diameters were larger at T10‐11 than T9‐10, contributing to larger dural surface area at T10‐11 (p = 0.028). While trends of dorsal CSF thickness tend to decrease with lower thoracic levels, the ratio of surface area of spinal cord to dural sac appeared to remain relatively constant.

Conclusions

Dorsal CSF thickness is smaller at T9‐10 than T7‐8 in chronic pain patients in this cohort. More ellipsoid, cord, and spinal canal diameter measurements were noted at lower levels of the thoracic spinal cord, particularly at T10‐11. This may correlate with anatomical SCS placement. Future studies should evaluate efficacy of SCS therapy for pain based on these anatomical considerations.
Online, home‐based dystrophic epidermolysis bullosa registry
Authors: Mittal Vaishali , Nazaroff Jaron , Eid Edward , Li Shufeng , Linos Eleni , Oro Anthony , Tang Jean Y.
Published: June 2024

Genetic testing is the gold standard for diagnosing different epidermolysis bullosa (EB) subtypes; however, testing rates are low. We conducted a pilot study to test feasibility of a novel, home‐based registry that involved patients with EB submitting self‐reported clinical symptoms using secure, online surveys (REDCap) and submitting buccal swabs for exome sequencing of EB‐related genes (GeneDx). In total, 50 EB participants were enrolled, with an average age of 17 years and an average distance of 198 miles from EB specialty centers. All buccal swabs (N = 24) provided sufficient DNA for sequencing without causing mucosal trauma and 80% of participants were found to have pathogenic variants in COL7A1, the gene mutated in DEB. Participants with recessive dystrophic EB (RDEB) reported a higher prevalence of esophageal dilations (65.7% vs. 0%, p = .009) and mitten deformities of the feet (57.1% vs. 0%, p = .047) compared to non‐RDEB participants.
Synergistic effects of covalently coupled eosin‐Y with Ben‐graphitic carbon nitride framework for improved photocatalytic activity in solar light‐driven Biginelli product generation and NADH regeneration
Authors: Prajapati Anurag , Yadav Rajesh K. , Shahin Rehana , Shukla Ravindra , Mishra Shaifali , Singh Satyam , Yadav Suman , Baeg Jin‐OoK , Singhal Rajat , Gupta Navneet K. , Ali Mohd Sajid , Yadav Krishna Kumar
Published: June 2024

Elevated global pollution level is the prime reason that contributes to the onset of various harmful health diseases. The products of Biginelli reaction are enormously used in the pharmaceutical industry as they have antiviral, antibacterial, and calcium channel modulation abilities. This work reports a novel eosin Y sensitized boron graphitic carbon nitride (EY‐Ben‐g‐C3N4) as a photocatalyst that efficiently produced 3,4‐dihydropyrimidine‐2‐(1H)‐one by the Biginelli reaction of benzaldehyde, urea, and methyl acetoacetate. The photocatalyst EY‐Ben‐g‐C3N4 showed a successful generation of 3,4‐dihydropyrimidine‐2‐(1H)‐one (Biginelli product) in good yield via photocatalysis which is an eco‐friendly method and has facile operational process. In addition to the production of Biginelli products, the photocatalyst also showed a remarkable NADH regeneration of 81.18%. The incorporation of g‐C3N4 with boron helps increase the surface area and the incorporation of eosin Y which is an inexpensive and non‐toxic dye, and in Ben‐g‐C3N4, enhanced the light‐harvesting capacity of the photocatalyst. The production of 3,4‐dihydropyrimidine‐2‐(1H)‐one and NADH by the EY‐Ben‐g‐C3N4 photocatalyst is attributed to the requisite band gap, high molar absorbance, low rate of charge recombination, and increased capacity of the photocatalyst to harvest solar light energy.
Alternative splicing of lncRNA LAIR fine‐tunes the regulation of neighboring yield‐related gene LRK1 expression in rice
Authors: Wang Ying , Cao Liming , Liu Mingyu , Yan Peiwen , Niu Fuan , Dong Shiqing , Ma Fuying , Lan Dengyong , Zhang Xinwei , Hu Jian , Xin Xiaoyun , Yang Jinshui , Luo Xiaojin
Published: June 2024

The diversity in alternative splicing of long noncoding RNAs (lncRNAs) poses a challenge for functional annotation of lncRNAs. Moreover, little is known on the effects of alternatively spliced lncRNAs on crop yield. In this study, we cloned nine isoforms resulting from the alternative splicing of the lncRNA LAIR in rice. The LAIR isoforms are generated via alternative 5′/3′ splice sites and different combinations of specific introns. All LAIR isoforms activate the expression of the neighboring LRK1 gene and enhance yield‐related rice traits. In addition, there are slight differences in the binding ability of LAIR isoforms to the epigenetic modification‐related proteins OsMOF and OsWDR5, which affect the enrichment of H4K16ac and H3K4me3 at the LRK1 locus, and consequently fine‐tune the regulation of LRK1 expression and yield‐related traits. These differences in binding may be caused by polymorphic changes to the RNA secondary structure resulting from alternative splicing. It was also observed that the composition of LAIR isoforms was sensitive to abiotic stress. These findings suggest that the alternative splicing of LAIR leads to the formation of a functional transcript population that precisely regulates yield‐related gene expression, which may be relevant for phenotypic polymorphism‐based crop breeding under changing environmental conditions.
Knowledge gaps in existing research exploring sexual fluidity and mental health among young adults
Authors: Coulaud Pierre-Julien , Salway Travis , Adams Nick , Ball William , Larmarange Joseph , Kelly-Irving Michelle , Knight Rod
Published: June 2024

While there is a large body of evidence indicating that sexual minority youth experience inequitably high rates of mental health problems (eg, depression, suicidality), we know little about how temporal changes in sexual attractions, identities and behaviour may impact mental health (and other) outcomes. In this essay, we review existing research regarding sexual fluidity and mental health among young adults in order to identify critical knowledge gaps with respect to an epidemiological understanding of the relationship between these factors. We describe three gaps that in turn inform a larger public health research agenda on this topic. First, there are a number of methodological challenges given that fluidity can occur over short or long periods of time and across multiple dimensions of sexual orientation (eg, attractions, identities and behaviour) with various patterns (eg, directionality of change). Tailored measures that accurately and inclusively reflect diversities of sexual fluidity trajectories are needed. Second, causal relationships between sexual fluidity and mental health remain uncertain and unquantified. Third, little is known about how features of context (eg, gender norms and political climate) influence youth experiences with sexual fluidity and mental health. Finally, we propose a set of recommendations to address these knowledge gaps to improve the quality of epidemiological research involving young people.
Coupled awareness-epidemic dynamics in a two-layer network with community structure
Authors: Han Dun , Wang Xin
Published: June 2024

In this paper, a two-layer network model featuring inherent community structures is introduced to examine the interplay between awareness transmission and epidemic spreading. The model incorporates an unaware-aware-unaware (UAU) framework within the informational upper layer, shaped by community structures, and a susceptible-infected-susceptible (SIS) paradigm within the epidemic lower layer. The role of individual self-awareness is also considered, with the hypothesis that individuals spontaneously become aware of the disease when the local awareness rate in their vicinity exceeds a predetermined threshold. The epidemic threshold is delineated through the application of the microscopic Markov chain approach (MMCA). Findings indicate that the individual self-awareness mechanism impacts epidemic thresholds in a dual-phase manner, with distinct high and low threshold stages. It is observed that when the community structure remains static, fluctuations in the transmission probability of awareness — whether intra-community or inter-community — do not significantly influence the threshold or the ultimate scale of the epidemic. Analysis suggests that a denser community structure, along with increased inter-community connectivity, facilitates the spread of awareness and effectively suppresses the propagation of the epidemic.
Synchronization and stability for asynchronous temporal Boolean networks
Authors: Xu Lunshi , Zhang Hao , Lu Jianquan , Zhang Chuan , Su Xianghui , Alghamdi Sultan M.
Published: June 2024

Asynchronous temporal Boolean Networks (ATBNs) are more complex in structure and have different linear expressions compared to traditional synchronous Boolean networks. The complexity depends on the number of updated nodes. The main contribution of this paper is to propose results of synchronization and anti-synchronization problems of ATBNs. First, this paper abstracts two Temporal Boolean Networks (TBNs) into a mathematical model, and provides a linear expression of the network by means of the semi-tensor product (STP) tool. Second, based on the asynchronous updating scheme of temporal Boolean networks, we investigate the synchronization (including complete synchronization and anti-synchronization) of ATBNs, and provide two results to guarantee the synchronization and anti-synchronization. Finally, we provide two examples to verify the correctness of our theorems and corollaries.
Collaborative Routing Optimization for Heterogeneous Trucks–Drones Under Urban Regional Restrictions
Authors: Gao Jiaojiao , Guo Xiuping
Published: June 2024

Collaborative truck–drone delivery is a crucial model of drone involvement in urban logistics, addressing drone limitations in load capacity and endurance. However, regional constraints, including damage, blockades, pollution, and epidemics, pose routing challenges for trucks and drones. This study integrates regional restrictions into the heterogeneous truck–drone routing problem, presenting a mixed-integer programming model for cost minimization. To tackle complexity, we introduce an enhanced gray wolf optimization algorithm (EGWO), which improves the initial solution through partition scanning and a heuristic insertion algorithm. EGWO effectiveness is confirmed through enhancements in the standard test library. On average, the heterogeneous truck–drone model achieves a 28.31% cost reduction compared to the single-type truck delivery model. Moreover, deep insights into the impacts of multi-type trucks, the number of no-fly zones and the number of restricted traffic zones on the performance of the heterogeneous truck–drone system are discussed.
Studies on particle creation during the universe expansion with a laser system
Authors: Dai De-Chang , Fu Changbo
Published: June 2024

While two highly intensive laser beams collide, they create a region where the refractive index varies so quickly that photons are created. The variance of the refractive index is analog to the universe scale factor variance. Therefore, this laser system can be an analog to the expansion of the universe. We find that several hundreds of photons can be created under feasible conditions. This system can demonstrate the particle creation during inflation or other similar periods.
Tau physics opportunities at the super tau-charm facility
Authors: Pich Antonio
Published: June 2024

The super tau-charm facility will provide excellent conditions to perform a high-precision investigation of the tau-lepton properties: very high statistics, controllable systematics and low backgrounds. An overview of the broad physics program that could be addressed at this facility is presented.
Final-state interactions in the CP asymmetry of D meson two-body decays
Authors: Vale Silva Luiz , Pich Antonio , Solomonidi Eleftheria
Published: June 2024

Urgent theoretical progress is needed in order to provide an estimate in the Standard Model of the recent measurement by LHCb of direct CP violation in charm-meson two-body decays. Rescattering effects must be taken into account for a meaningful theoretical description of the amplitudes involved in such category of observables, as signaled by the presence of large strong phases. We discuss the computation of the latter effects based on a two-channel coupled dispersion relation, which exploits isospin-zero phase shifts and inelasticity parameterizations of data coming from the rescattering processes [Formula: see text], [Formula: see text], and [Formula: see text]. The determination of the subtraction constants of the dispersive integrals relies on the leading contributions to the transition amplitudes from the [Formula: see text] counting, where [Formula: see text] is the number of QCD colors. Furthermore, we use the measured values of the branching ratios to help in selecting the non-perturbative inputs in the isospin limit, from which we predict values for the CP asymmetries. We find that the predicted level of CP violation is much below the experimental value.
Unsupervised Object Cosegmentation Method Devoted to Image Classification
Authors: Merdassi Hager , Barhoumi Walid , Zagrouba Ezzeddine
Published: June 2024

Rich heterogeneous data provided by social networks can be very big, which imposes considerable challenges for object extraction and image classification. Therefore, the objective of this work is to propose an unsupervised object cosegmentation method that could be notably efficient to improve image classification performance. The main goal of cosegmentation is to extract the salient common objects within each image. To this end, we propose to minimize an energy function based on the Markov Random Field using the saliency detection, while considering linear dependence of generated foreground histograms of the input image collection. In fact, the saliency detection is processed in two steps. In each image, we detect salient objects, by considering appearance similarity and spatial distributions of image pixels. Then, fuzzy quantification is used to correct the belonging of pixels to the foreground objects. Finally, an iterative optimization permits to enhance the final segmentation results. The proposed method has been validated as a preprocessing step for image classification. Indeed, to enhance cosegmentation-based classification performance, we have applied a semi-supervised object classification based on ensemble projection. Qualitative and quantitative evaluations of the proposed cosegmentation and classification techniques on the iCoseg, CDS and Oxford Flowers 17 datasets demonstrate the effectiveness of the proposed framework.
Assessing the Use of GitHub Copilot on Students of Engineering of Information Systems
Authors: Cirett-Galán Federico , Torres-Peralta Raquel , Navarro-Hernández René , Ochoa-Hernández José Luis , Contreras-Rivera San , Estrada-Ríos Luis Arturo , Machado-Encinas Germán
Published: June 2024

This study examines the impact of AI programming assistants like GitHub Copilot and ChatGPT on software engineering efficiency, an area that has seen limited empirical research. We experimentally evaluated the performance of programmers ([Formula: see text]) in Python coding tasks with and without AI assistance, measuring time-to-completion and feature implementation. Results indicate that participants utilizing AI assistance completed tasks significantly faster (p = 0.033) and implemented more required features (p = 0.012) compared to those relying solely on unaided coding. These findings offer empirical insights into the integration of AI tools in software development workflows, highlighting their potential to enhance efficiency without compromising code quality or completeness, with implications for organizational pipelines and practitioner skills. Responses to exit surveys suggest that participants without IA tools assistance encountered frustrations related to code recall, time constraints, and problem-solving, while assisted participants reported no negative experiences, focusing instead on successful completion of tasks within the allotted time.
Improved semi-empirical formula for cluster radioactivity half-lives
Authors: Liu Xiao , Jiang Jie-Dong , Li Ming , Chen Xun , Wu Xi-Jun , Li Xiao-Hua
Published: June 2024

An improved semi-empirical formula for cluster radioactivity half-lives is proposed by incorporating the influences of reduced mass, the blocking effect of unpaired nucleons and mass asymmetry on the basis of the original Tavares formula [Eur. Phys. J. A 49 (2013) 6]. Using this improved semi-empirical formula, the calculated results of the cluster radioactivity half-lives for the daughter nuclei around [Formula: see text]Pb or its neighbors can reproduce the experimental data well with a corresponding root-mean-square deviation [Formula: see text]= 0.570, which proves the feasibility of this formula to calculate cluster radioactivity half-lives in trans-lead nuclei. The accuracy of the improved semi-empirical formula is improved by approximately 37% compared to its predecessor whose the root-mean-square deviation is 0.902. Meanwhile, the influence of deformation effect for cluster radioactivity is also briefly discussed. In addition, we extend this improved semi-empirical formula to predict the half-lives of 51 possible cluster radioactive candidates whose cluster radioactivity are energetically allowed or observed but not yet quantified in NUBASE2020. For comparison, some empirical and/or semi-empirical formulae are also used.
Analysis of Depreciation Methods Based on Cooperative Game Theory — Focusing on the Straight-Line Method
Authors: Arata Eiko , Shimogawa Takuhei , Inohara Takehiro
Published: June 2024

This study develops a model to explain why accounting procedures, also known as Generally Accepted Accounting Principles, are “generally accepted”. For this purpose, we focus on depreciation defined as the rational and systematic allocation of the original cost of an asset over the expected useful life of that asset. We investigate what it means to be “rational” using cooperative game theory. We show that cost allocations determined by the straight-line (SL) method, which is conventionally used worldwide, are elements of the core and that the conditions of the core can be rational in practice. Furthermore, we examine the relationship between the SL method and other solution concepts, such as the Shapley value and the nucleolus. Our next step is to clarify the characteristics besides the core selection of the SL method, those of other depreciation methods used in practice, and the logical relations between these characteristics.
Recent Review and Comparative Assessment of Local Instability in Thin-Walled Corrugated Steel Web Girders
Authors: Pandit Uttam Kumar , Mondal Goutam , Punera Devesh
Published: June 2024

Corrugated steel web (CSW) sections are utilized worldwide in civil and mechanical engineering because of their advantages over flat sections, including enhanced lateral stability, a higher strength-to-weight ratio, improved energy absorption, and a reduced need for vertical stiffeners. The stability of such thin-walled structures becomes critical due to the small thickness of components and complex geometry. While lateral torsional buckling (LTB) can be avoided through lateral restraints, individual components of a girder, i.e. web and flanges, may undergo failure due to local instability. This paper focuses on summarizing the approaches for evaluating the local stability behavior of the flange and web sections. The review presents a holistic overview of the existing analytical, numerical and experimental studies on the web and flange instability of CSW girders. A numerical evaluation of local shear and flexural stability is presented using existing approaches. The influence of different geometrical parameters is summarized and important observations are highlighted for future research in this area.
Reliability Analysis of a Cable-Stayed Bridge: A Comparative Study Across Varied Support Scenarios and Incorporating Soil–Pile–Structure Interaction
Authors: Rashid Ali , Shokrgozar Hamed Rahman , Mohebbi Mohtasham , Esmaeeli Esmaeel
Published: June 2024

In this paper, the reliability of a cable-stayed bridge with a span of 640[Formula: see text]m is investigated and compared in three different scenarios. While both the first and second scenarios assumed a fixed end for the bridge supports used, they differed in terms of material and geometric behavior. Finally, the third scenario differed from the second by incorporating a soil–pile–structure interaction (SPSI) to account for the flexibility of the underlying support. This study accounts for uncertainties in the structure, pile, and soil parameters. The Latin hypercube sampling (LHS) method and dynamic time history analysis were used to estimate the structural responses. Artificial earthquake records at four different risk levels are used for the dynamic time history analysis. Using the machine learning method, several additional results were generated and used in the seismic reliability evaluation. In the case where the SPSI was a simulation, the reliability analysis showed a higher probability of cable failure than other criteria. The element of the tower in the fixed support case also has a high probability of failure. The results of the reliability analysis of the nonlinear models showed a higher probability of failure for a cable-stayed bridge on flexible support than on fixed support.
Numerical Study and Design Method for Lateral Torsional Buckling of High-Strength Steel Beams
Authors: Gong Yunlong , Wang Weiyong , Zhang Linbo
Published: June 2024

Given the increasing use of high-strength steels in building constructions, the stability design of high-strength steel beams has become a crucial consideration. However, the current standards of various countries are based on analyses and fittings derived from conventional steel, rendering them unsuitable for high-strength steel. Moreover, existing research indicates that these standards underestimate the ultimate load-bearing capacity of high-strength steel beams. A finite element model was established to investigate lateral torsional buckling in high-strength steel beams. The obtained results were then compared with test results from experiments conducted on Q460GJ and Q690 steel beams. The reliability and accuracy of the established finite element model were validated. Through parametric studies, the impact of depth-to-width ratio, boundary condition, and steel grade on the stability coefficient was evaluated. It was observed that at the same non-dimensional slenderness, an increase in the depth-to-width ratio or a reduction in support constraints led to a decrease in the stability coefficient. It should be noted that the steel grade had little effect on the stability coefficient. Comparisons with the current steel structure design codes, such as EN1993-1-1, GB50017-2017, JGJ/T483-2020, and ANSI/AISC360-22 revealed an underestimation of the stability coefficient for clamped high-strength steel beams under uniformly distributed loads. Based on finite element simulations, stability coefficients for high-strength Q460, Q690, and Q960 clamped beams were determined. Similar to the stability coefficient proposed in GB50017-2017 for the lateral buckling stability design of steel beams, a lateral buckling stability coefficient for high-strength steel clamped beams subjected to uniformly distributed loads was proposed.
Tunable Bending and Buckling Behaviors of Circular Plates Made of FG Graphene Origami-Enabled Auxetic Metamaterials
Authors: Mirsabetnazar A. , Ansari R. , Ershadi M. Zargar , Rouhi H.
Published: June 2024

Based on the variational differential quadrature (VDQ) method, the bending and buckling characteristics of circular plates made of functionally graded graphene origami-enabled auxetic metamaterials (FG-GOEAMs) are numerically studied in this paper. It is considered that the plate is composed of multiple GOEAM layers with graphene origami (GOri) content that changes in layer-wise patterns. The results from genetic programming-assisted micromechanical models are also employed in order to estimate the material properties. The plate is modeled according to the first-order shear deformation plate theory whose governing equations are obtained using an energy approach in the context of VDQ technique. The governing equations are given in a new vector-matrix form which can be easily utilized in coding process of numerical methods. By means of VDQ matrix differential and integral operators, the governing equations are discretized and solved to calculate the lateral deflection and critical buckling load of plates under various boundary conditions. Selected numerical results are presented to investigate the influences of boundary conditions, GOri content, folding degree and distribution pattern on the buckling and bending behaviors of FG-GOEAM plates.
A Functionally Arranged Phononic Crystal Rod Enabling Ultra-Wideband Vibration Attenuation and Orderly Frequency Distillation
Authors: Lou Jia , Fan Hui , Yang Jie , Zhang Aibing , Du Jianke
Published: June 2024

In this study, a functionally arranged phononic crystal rod, incorporating sub-periodic structures featuring distinct lattice constants, is designed. This rod seamlessly combines two distinct capabilities: highly efficient broadband vibration suppression and orderly frequency distillation. In the pursuit of this design, the dispersion characteristics of a periodic rod are first analytically calculated to determine the precise cut-on and cut-off frequencies of the resulting band gaps. Following this, the transmission of longitudinal waves traveling through a finite functionally arranged rod is elucidated. Based on these calculations, careful parameter selection yields a compact configuration for a functionally arranged phononic crystal rod, boasting an exceptionally wide band gap spanning frequencies from 100 Hz to 10,000 Hz. Finite element simulations vividly demonstrate its ultra-broadband vibration attenuation capability, nonsymmetrical wave propagation behavior, and orderly frequency distillation phenomenon. Our study underscores the advantages of employing constituent materials with a higher impedance ratio in obtaining a more compact topological structure while preserving the broadband required for vibration attenuation. This research provides essential insights for tackling the need for broadband vibration suppression in engineering and also sets the stage for achieving orderly frequency extraction and energy localization.