bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Experimental study on flexural properties of superelastic SMA fiber reinforced ECC under monotonic load
Authors: Luo Hongbo , Lv Qianqian , Shi Yifei , Chen Guolin , Qian Hui
Published: January 2025

To enhance the bending performance and crack control of ECC materials, a novel hybrid fiber-reinforced cement composite (SMAF-ECC) was developed by incorporating superelastic SMA fibers into PVA-ECC. Four-point bending tests under monotonic loading were performed to systematically examine the effects of SMA fiber content, diameter, and shape on the mechanical properties of thin plates, including cracking deflection, cracking strength, ultimate deflection, and flexural strength. Additionally, the bending toughness of the plates was assessed using the ASTM C108 toughness index. Moreover, a mesoscale numerical analysis model for SMAF-ECC thin plates was developed. The results indicate that SMA fibers notably enhance the flexural performance of the plates. As the SMA fiber content increases, both the initial cracking strength and ultimate deflection initially increase before decreasing, with optimal performance occurring at a fiber content of 0.5%, which improves these properties by 20.9% to 44.5% compared to specimens without SMA fibers. The flexural strength of the specimens continues to increase with fiber content, reaching a maximum improvement of 36.1%. Among the various fiber shapes, flat-headed SMA fibers exhibit the best performance in improving both flexural strength and ultimate deflection, with enhancements of 7.2% and 25.9%, respectively, compared to specimens without SMA fibers. Furthermore, the inclusion of SMA fibers markedly improves the bending toughness of the thin plates. The reliability of the numerical model was validated through comparisons between the simulation and experimental results.
Exchange interaction for the triplet superconductor URhGe
Authors: YANG CHIH-KAI , Lee Chi-Hsuan
Published: January 2025

URhGe is a ferromagnetic superconductor with a low critical temperature. We use a combination of first-principles density functional calculations and modified Bardeen-Cooper-Schrieffer (BCS) theory to investigate its unconventional superconductivity. Focusing on a spin-triplet state and exchange interaction between electrons, we are able to derive the critical temperature and an average superconducting gap at 0 K that are reasonably close to the experimental value. A spin wave analysis follows that includes a dispersion relation and parameters related to the exchange interaction at low temperatures, suggesting feasible ways for experimental verification.
Feasibility and parameter optimization of ground-to-satellite uplink continuous-variable quantum key distribution
Authors: Cheng Jin , Chen Yujie , Liu Ao , Sun Xin , Guo Junjie , Yang Bohan , Yin Peng , Liu Wenbo , Chen Lanjian , Dong Chen
Published: January 2025

Driven by the necessitates of wide-area quantum secure communication networks, ground-to-satellite quantum key distribution (QKD) has been highlighted in the field of quantum information. Continuous variable QKD (CV-QKD) shows the advantages of a high secure key rate generation and compatibility in the fiber channel, but the communication range is limited by low attenuation tolerance. In this study, the feasibility of the uplink CV-QKD for Very Low Earth Orbit satellite is studied, and the influence of practical factors such as atmospheric turbulence and beam pointing errors under dynamic time-varying satellite orbital parameters is analyzed to model realistic transmission channels. A parameter optimization scheme for orbital parameters, spot size, receiving telescope aperture, and modulation variance has been proposed to enhance the performance of the actual uplink CV-QKD, providing a reference for parameter selection in CV-QKD experiments.
Ultra-light dark matter with non-canonical kinetics reopening the mass window
Authors: Lu Shiyun , Ilyas Amara , Ma Xiao-Han , Wang Bo , Zhang Dongdong , Cai Yi-Fu
Published: January 2025

Fuzzy dark matter (FDM) with mass around 10-22 eV is viewed as a promising paradigm in understanding the structure formation of the local universe at small scales.
Recent observations, however, begin to challenge FDM in return.
We focus on the arguments between the solution to CDM small-scale curiosities and recent observations on matter power spectrum, and find its implication on an earlier formation of small-scale structure. In this article, we propose a scheme of k-ULDM scalar field with a differently-evolving sound speed, thanks to the non-canonical kinetics. With the help of the Dirac-Born-Infeld (DBI) theory, we illustrate to change the behavior of the quantum pressure term countering collapse, therefore change the history of structure growth. We find that it can truly reopen the ULDM mass window closed by the Lyman-α problem. We will discuss such examples in this paper, while more possibilities remain to be explored.
Inflation with the Chern-Simons term in the Palatini formulation
Authors: Hassan Ali , Räsänen Syksy
Published: January 2025

We consider the Chern-Simons term coupled to the inflaton in the Palatini formulation of general relativity. In contrast to the metric formulation, here the Chern-Simons term affects also the background evolution. We approximately solve for the connection, insert it back into the action, and reduce the order of the equations to obtain an effective theory in the gradient approximation. We consider three cases: when the connection is unconstrained, and when non-metricity or torsion is put to zero. In the first two cases, the inflaton kinetic term is modified with a term proportional to the square of the potential. For polynomial potentials dominated by the highest power of the field, the Chern-Simons term solves the problem that higher order corrections spoil the flatness of the potential. For Higgs inflation, the tensor-to-scalar ratio can be as large as the current observational bound, and the non-minimal coupling to the Ricci scalar can be as small as in the metric case. The Palatini contribution cures the known instability of the tensor modes due to the Chern-Simons term in the metric formulation.
Revisiting primordial magnetic fields through 21-cm physics: bounds and forecasts
Authors: Bhaumik Arko , Paul Debarun , Pal Supratik
Published: January 2025

Primordial magnetic fields (PMFs) may significantly influence 21-cm physics via two mechanisms: (i) magnetic heating of the intergalactic medium (IGM) through ambipolar diffusion (AD) and decaying magnetohydrodynamic turbulence (DT), (ii) impact on the star formation rate density (SFRD) through small-scale enhancement of the matter power spectrum. In this analysis, we integrate both of these effects within a unified analytical framework and use it to determine upper bounds on the parameter space of a nearly scale-invariant non-helical PMF in the light of the global 21-cm signal observed by EDGES. Our findings reveal that the joint consideration of both effects furnishes constraints of the order B
0 ≲ 𝒪(10-2) nG on the present-day magnetic field strength, which are considerably tighter compared to earlier analyses. We subsequently explore the prospects of detecting such a magnetized 21-cm power spectrum at the upcoming SKA-Low mission. For the relevant parameters of the PMF (B
0 and n

B
) and the excess radio background (ξ), SNR estimation and Fisher forecast analysis indicate that it may be possible to constrain these three parameters with relative 1σ uncertainties ≲ 10% and an associated SNR ≳10 at SKA-Low. This also leads to possible correlations among these three parameters, thus revealing intriguing trends of interplay among the various physical processes involved.
Schwarzschild lensing from geodesic deviation
Authors: Li Zhao , Guo Xiao , Liu Tan , Zhu Tao , Zhao Wen
Published: January 2025

We revisit the gravitational lensing of light or gravitational waves by a Schwarzschild black hole in geometric optics. Rather than focusing on a single massless particle, we investigate the collective behavior of a congruence of light or gravitational rays, described by the geodesic deviation equation (GDE). By projecting GDE onto the Newman-Penrose tetrad, we decouple the equation and find an analytical Dyson-like series solution in the weak deflection and thin lens limits. Using this solution, we analyze the evolution of the cross-sectional area and axis ratio. Finally, we reproduce the magnification and axis ratio of the lensing images up to second-order weak deflection approximation, addressing some previously overlooked corrections.
Numerical simulation of common envelope stage in close binary systems: comparison between Newtonian and modified gravity
Authors: Astashenok A.V. , Baigashov A.S. , Tepliakov A.S. , Gusev K.P. , Shamardina E.R.
Published: January 2025

We consider the important stage in evolution of close binary system namely common envelope
phase in framework of various models of modified gravity. The comparison of results between
calculations in Newtonian gravity and modified gravity allows to estimate possible observational
imprints of modified gravity. Although declination from Newtonian gravity should be negligible we
can propose that due to the long times some new effects can appear. We use the moving-mesh code
AREPO for numerical simulation of binary system consisting of ∼ M
⊙ white dwarf and a
red giant with mass ∼ 2M
⊙. For implementing modified gravity into AREPO code we
apply the method of (pseudo)potential, assuming that modified gravity can be described by small
corrections to usual Newtonian gravitational potential. As in Newtonian case initial orbit has to
shrink due to the energy transfer to the envelope of a giant. We investigated evolution of common
envelope in a case of simple model of modified gravity with various values of parameters and
compared results with simulation in frames of Newtonian gravity.
Integration of wearable electronics and heart rate variability for human physical and mental well-being assessment
Authors: Yin Feifei , Chen Jian , Xue Haiying , Kang Kai , Lu Can , Chen Xinyi , Li Yang
Published: January 2025

Heart rate variability (HRV) that can reflect the dynamic balance between the sympathetic nervous and parasympathetic nervous of human autonomic nervous system (ANS) has attracted considerable attention. However, traditional electrocardiogram (ECG) devices for HRV analysis are bulky, and hard wires are needed to attach measuring electrodes to the chest, resulting in the poor wearable experience during the long-term measurement. Compared with that, wearable electronics enabling continuously cardiac signals monitoring and HRV assessment provide a desirable and promising approach for helping subjects determine sleeping issues, cardiovascular diseases, or other threats to physical and mental well-being. Until now, significant progress and advances have been achieved in wearable electronics for HRV monitoring and applications for predicting human physical and mental well-being. In this review, the latest progress in the integration of wearable electronics and HRV analysis as well as practical applications in assessment of human physical and mental health are included. The commonly used methods and physiological signals for HRV analysis are briefly summarized. Furthermore, we highlighted the research on wearable electronics concerning HRV assessment and diverse applications such as stress estimation, drowsiness detection, etc. Lastly, the current limitations of the integrated wearable HRV system are concluded, and possible solutions in such a research direction are outlined.
Electrospraying Si/SiO
x
/C and Sn/C nanosphere arrays on carbon cloth for high-performance flexible lithium-ion batteries
Authors: Chen Di , Li Rui , Liu Chunxue , Jiang Kai
Published: January 2025

Exploring electrode materials with larger capacity, higher power density and longer cycle life was critical for developing advanced flexible lithium-ion batteries (LIBs). Herein, we used a controlled two-step method including electrospraying followed with calcination treatment by CVD furnace to design novel electrodes of Si/Si
x
/C and Sn/C microrods array consisting of nanospheres on flexible carbon cloth substrate (denoted as Si/Si
x
/C@CC, Sn/C@CC). Microrods composed of cumulated nanospheres (the diameter was approximately 120 nm) had a mean diameter of approximately 1.5 µm and a length of around 4.0 µm, distributing uniformly along the entire woven carbon fibers. Both of Si/Si/Si
x
/C@CC and Sn/C@CC products were synthesized as binder-free anodes for Li-ion battery with the features of high reversible capacity and excellent cycling. Especially Si/Si
x
/C electrode exhibited high specific capacity of about 1750 mA∙h∙g−1 at 0.5 A∙g−1 and excellent cycling ability even after 1050 cycles with a capacity of 1388 mA∙h∙g−1. Highly flexible Si/Si
x
/C@CC//LiCoO2 batteries based on liquid and solid electrolytes were also fabricated, exhibiting high flexibility, excellent electrical stability and potential applications in flexible wearable electronics.
Artificial self-powered and self-healable neuromorphic vision skin utilizing silver nanoparticle-doped ionogel photosynaptic heterostructure
Authors: Qian Xinkai , Zhang Fa , Li Xiujuan , Li Junyue , Sun Hongchao , Wang Qiye , Huang Chaoran , Zhang Zhenyu , Zhou Zhe , Liu Juqing
Published: January 2025

Artificial skin should embody a softly functional film that is capable of self-powering, healing and sensing with neuromorphic processing. However, the pursuit of a bionic skin that combines high flexibility, self-healability, and zero-powered photosynaptic functionality remains elusive. In this study, we report a self-powered and self-healable neuromorphic vision skin, featuring silver nanoparticle-doped ionogel heterostructure as photoacceptor. The localized surface plasmon resonance induced by light in the nanoparticles triggers temperature fluctuations within the heterojunction, facilitating ion migration for visual sensing with synaptic behaviors. The abundant reversible hydrogen bonds in the ionogel endow the skin with remarkable mechanical flexibility and self-healing properties. We assembled a neuromorphic visual skin equipped with a 5 × 5 photosynapse array, capable of sensing and memorizing diverse light patterns.
Neurotransmitter-mediated artificial synapses based on organic electrochemical transistors for future biomimic and bioinspired neuromorphic systems
Authors: Cheng Miao , Xie Yifan , Wang Jinyao , Jin Qingqing , Tian Yue , Liu Changrui , Chu Jingyun , Li Mengmeng , Li Ling
Published: January 2025

Organic electrochemical transistors have emerged as a solution for artificial synapses that mimic the neural functions of the brain structure, holding great potentials to break the bottleneck of von Neumann architectures. However, current artificial synapses rely primarily on electrical signals, and little attention has been paid to the vital role of neurotransmitter-mediated artificial synapses. Dopamine is a key neurotransmitter associated with emotion regulation and cognitive processes that needs to be monitored in real time to advance the development of disease diagnostics and neuroscience. To provide insights into the development of artificial synapses with neurotransmitter involvement, this review proposes three steps towards future biomimic and bioinspired neuromorphic systems. We first summarize OECT-based dopamine detection devices, and then review advances in neurotransmitter-mediated artificial synapses and resultant advanced neuromorphic systems. Finally, by exploring the challenges and opportunities related to such neuromorphic systems, we provide a perspective on the future development of biomimetic and bioinspired neuromorphic systems.
Recent progress on elemental tellurium and its devices
Authors: Liao Jiachi , Lai Zhengxun , Meng You , Ho Johnny C.
Published: January 2025

The rapid advancement of information technology has heightened interest in complementary devices and circuits. Conventional p-type semiconductors often lack sufficient electrical performance, thus prompting the search for new materials with high hole mobility and long-term stability. Elemental tellurium (Te), featuring a one-dimensional chiral atomic structure, has emerged as a promising candidate due to its narrow bandgap, high hole mobility, and versatility in industrial applications, particularly in electronics and renewable energy. This review highlights recent progress in Te nanostructures and related devices, focusing on synthesis methods, including vapor deposition and hydrothermal synthesis, which produce Te nanowires, nanorods, and other nanostructures. Critical applications in photodetectors, gas sensors, and energy harvesting devices are discussed, with a special emphasis on their role within the internet of things (IoT) framework, a rapidly growing field that is reshaping our technological landscape. The prospects and potential applications of Te-based technologies are also highlighted.
Recent progress on artificial intelligence-enhanced multimodal sensors integrated devices and systems
Authors: Wang Haihua , Zhou Mingjian , Jia Xiaolong , Wei Hualong , Hu Zhenjie , Li Wei , Chen Qiumeng , Wang Lei
Published: January 2025

Multimodal sensor fusion can make full use of the advantages of various sensors, make up for the shortcomings of a single sensor, achieve information verification or information security through information redundancy, and improve the reliability and safety of the system. Artificial intelligence (AI), referring to the simulation of human intelligence in machines that are programmed to think and learn like humans, represents a pivotal frontier in modern scientific research. With the continuous development and promotion of AI technology in Sensor 4.0 age, multimodal sensor fusion is becoming more and more intelligent and automated, and is expected to go further in the future. With this context, this review article takes a comprehensive look at the recent progress on AI-enhanced multimodal sensors and their integrated devices and systems. Based on the concept and principle of sensor technologies and AI algorithms, the theoretical underpinnings, technological breakthroughs, and pragmatic applications of AI-enhanced multimodal sensors in various fields such as robotics, healthcare, and environmental monitoring are highlighted. Through a comparative study of the dual/tri-modal sensors with and without using AI technologies (especially machine learning and deep learning), AI-enhanced multimodal sensors highlight the potential of AI to improve sensor performance, data processing, and decision-making capabilities. Furthermore, the review analyzes the challenges and opportunities afforded by AI-enhanced multimodal sensors, and offers a prospective outlook on the forthcoming advancements.
Advancements in implantable temperature sensors: Materials, mechanisms, and biological applications
Authors: Yang Zhuofan , Song Hongcheng , Ding He
Published: January 2025

Implantable temperature sensors are revolutionizing physiological monitoring and playing a crucial role in diagnostics, therapeutics, and life sciences research. This review classifies the materials used in these sensors into three categories: metal-based, inorganic semiconductor, and organic semiconductor materials. Metal-based materials are widely used in medical and industrial applications due to their linearity, stability, and reliability. Inorganic semiconductors provide rapid response times and high miniaturization potential, making them promising for biomedical and environmental monitoring. Organic semiconductors offer high sensitivity and ease of processing, enabling the development of flexible and stretchable sensors. This review analyzes recent studies for each material type, covering design principles, performance characteristics, and applications, highlighting key advantages and challenges regarding miniaturization, sensitivity, response time, and biocompatibility. Furthermore, critical performance parameters of implantable temperature sensors based on different material types are summarized, providing valuable references for future sensor design and optimization. The future development of implantable temperature sensors is discussed, focusing on improving biocompatibility, long-term stability, and multifunctional integration. These advancements are expected to expand the application potential of implantable sensors in telemedicine and dynamic physiological monitoring.
Optimizing Railway Safety by Analyzing Human Reliability Techniques - A review
Authors: Aliza M. E. M. , Yusop A. F. , Hamidi M. A. , Nor M. A. M.
Published: January 2025

Human reliability analysis (HRA) is a critical component in ensuring the safety and efficiency of railway engineering. As railway systems grow more complex, the methodologies used to assess and improve human reliability must also advance. This review provides a comprehensive analysis of the evolution of HRA, from the first-generation techniques to the third-generation approaches currently in use. Through a broad survey of the literature, comparative analysis, and detailed case studies, this review traces the development of HRA methods, showing the evolution from traditional techniques to modern hybrid approaches. The review also emphasizes the significance of hybrid Human Error Assessment and Reduction Technique (HEART) methods, which integrate multiple HRA approaches to provide a more comprehensive and accurate assessment of human reliability. The hybrid technique offers a more accurate estimation than standard methods, as evidenced by the determined Pearson coefficient of 0.9990 between the simulation findings and the HEP values of HEART-related methodologies. It also explores the integration of human factors into railway safety systems, underscoring the importance of considering human-machine interactions and the cognitive and behavioural aspects of railway operations. Key findings indicate that while traditional HRA methods laid the groundwork, there is a growing need for continuous innovation to address the increasing complexity of railway systems. This includes the development of hybrid models that combine insights from various HRA techniques and the incorporation of advanced human-machine interaction paradigms to further minimize human error rates. The objective of this review is to offer recommendations for future research in the field of HRA for railway engineering. It advocates for the development of advanced hybrid models with the use of cutting-edge technology like machine learning and artificial intelligence. By combining historical insights with modern technological advancements, the goal is to create more robust and reliable HRA methods that can better support the safety and efficiency of railway operations.
Implementation and Validation of the Cantas Electro’S Vibration Reduction Mechanism
Authors: Saad Wan Aliff Abdul , Idris Nurzarifah Zakirah , Ahmad Zair Asrar , Hasan Muhammad Danial Abu , Isham Muhammad Firdaus , Talib Mat Hussin Ab , Saufi Mohd Syahril Ramadhan Mohd , Samsuri Saiful Farhan Mohd
Published: January 2025

The Malaysian palm oil industry has grown substantially, emphasizing the need for efficient harvesting within a 10–12-day cycle. The CANTAS motorized cutter, introduced in 2007, has enhanced productivity by harvesting fresh fruit bunches from trees up to seven meters high. This research focuses on reducing health risks from Hand-Arm Vibration Syndrome (HAVS) by validating vibration reduction strategies for the CANTAS tool. The study investigates the performance of different design and use materials thermoplastic polyurethane (TPU), used in rubber bushings (RB), webbing bushings (WB), and a combination of rubber and webbing bushings (CRWB). Using triaxial accelerometers, the results demonstrate significant reductions in HAV levels, contributing to improved worker safety and operational efficiency.
Material and technique fundamentals of nano-hydroxyapatite coatings towards biofunctionalization: a review
Authors: Phogat Durgesh , Awasthi Shikha
Published: January 2025

Hydroxyapatite (HAp) nanocoatings on titanium alloys (e.g. Ti6Al4V) have been used for prosthetic orthopaedic implants in recent decades because of their osseointegration, bioactivity, and biocompatibility. HAp is brittle with low mechanical strength and poor adhesion to metallic surfaces, which limits its durability and bioactivity. Surface modification techniques have alleviated the imperfections in biomaterials by coating the substrate. Several methods for improving the characteristics of implants, such as physical vapour deposition, the thermal spray method, the sol–gel method, microarc oxidation, and electrochemical deposition methods, have been discussed in this review. These processes provide mechanical strength without sacrificing biocompatibility and may lead to the development of new ideas for future research. This review discusses various selective additives, including carbon allotropes, ceramic materials, metallic materials, and multiple materials, to enhance tribological characteristics, biocompatibility, wear resistance, and mechanical strength. This review focuses on the fabrication of nano-HAps as coatings using selective deposition methods with controlled deposition parameters, paying special attention to recent developments in bone tissue engineering. This report is organized in such a way that it may inspire further research on surface modifications during medical treatment. The present review may help prospective investigators understand the importance of surface modifications for obtaining excellent implantation performance.
In vivo vessel connection of pre-vascularised 3D-bioprinted gingival connective tissue substitutes
Authors: Smirani R , Médina C , Becker J , Déchelette C , Rousseau B , Fricain J-C , Naveau A
Published: January 2025

Producing oral soft tissues using tissue engineering could compensate for the disadvantages of autologous grafts (limited availability and increased patient morbidity) and currently available substitutes (shrinkage). However, there is a lack of in vitro-engineered oral tissues due to the difficulty of obtaining stable pre-vessels that connect to the host and enable graft success. The main objective was to assess the connection of pre-vascularised 3D-bioprinted gingival substitutes to the host vasculature when subcutaneously implanted in immunodeficient mice. This study produced vascularised connective tissue substitutes using extrusion-based 3D-bioprinting of primary human gingival fibroblasts (hGFs) and fluorescent human endothelial cells (RFP-HUVEC) co-cultures. Pre-vascularised (hGF + RFP-HUVEC-CC grids) and control (hGF only -HG grids) grids were bioprinted and pre-cultivated for 14 d to enable pre-vessels formation. In vitro vessel formation follow-up was performed. Eight-week-old female NOG mice were used for in vivo experiments. One grid per mouse was subcutaneously implanted in 20 mice (10HG/10CC). The fluorescent activity of RFP-HUVEC was monitored. Samples were retrieved at 7, 14 and 21 d. Histological, immunohistochemical, and immunofluorescent staining was performed. CC-grids formed efficient and stable pre-vessel networks within 14 d of static pre-culture. HG-grids did not contain any vessel, while CC-grids successfully connected to the host vasculature by presenting erythrocytes within the vessel lumen inside the grids starting day 7. From days 7–21, vessel density was stable. Human pre-vessels were present at 7 d and were progressively replaced by murine ECs. This study showed that primary hGF-HUVEC co-cultures can be successfully 3D-bioprinted within biomimetic hydrogels having a close composition to the gingival connective tissue, and HUVEC organise themselves into pre-vessel networks that connect to the murine vasculature when implanted in vivo. This approach represents a promising strategy to enhance current and future oral soft tissue substitutes for prospective clinical applications.
From √3 × √3 R30°-arsenene to 5 × 5-arsenene on Ag(111): an atomic reversible phase transition
Authors: Padova Paola De , Ottaviani Carlo , Olivieri Bruno , Krawiec Mariusz
Published: January 2025

Two dimensional (2D) √3 × √3 R30°-As, has been discovered on Ag(111)1 × 1 surface, by depositing 1 monolayer of As, keeping the silver substrate at a temperature of ∼450 °C, while a 2D 5 × 5 reconstruction, attributed to arsenene, appeared at a lower temperature of ∼350 °C. The two √3 × √3 R30°-As and 5 × 5-arsenene surface reconstructions were experimentally investigated by means of low electron energy diffraction, and Auger electron spectroscopy, while the first-principles calculations, by using density functional theory, confirmed their atomic configurations, surface stability, and the prediction that the √3 × √3 R30°-As reconstruction, can be considered as a new allotropic form of arsenene, exhibiting electronic structure with metallic character. A reversible structural phase transition, from the 2D √3 × √3 R30°-arsenene to the 5 × 5-arsenene surface reconstruction, induced by electron-beam irradiation, and recovered to the √3 × √3 R30°-As, by annealing, was observed, opening a new path to study reversible phase transitions in elemental epitaxial 2D materials.
Scalar curvature rigidity of degenerate warped product spaces
Authors: Wang Jinmin , Xie Zhizhang
Published: January 2025

In this paper we prove the scalar curvature extremality and rigidity for a class of warped product spaces that are possibly degenerate at the two ends. The leaves of these warped product spaces can be any closed Riemannian manifolds with nonnegative curvature operators and nonvanishing Euler characteristics, flat tori, round spheres and their direct products. In particular, we obtain the scalar curvature extremality and rigidity for certain degenerate toric bands and also for round spheres with two antipodal points removed. This answers positively the corresponding questions of Gromov in all dimensions.
Serendipitous decompositions of higher-dimensional continued fractions
Authors: Lukyanenko Anton , Vandehey Joseph
Published: January 2025

We prove a suite of dynamical results, including exactness of the transformation and piecewise-analyticity of the invariant measure, for a family of continued fraction systems, including specific examples over reals, complex numbers, quaternions, octonions, and in

R

3

\mathbb {R}^3

. Our methods expand on the work of Nakada and Hensley, and in particular fill some gaps in Hensley’s analysis of Hurwitz complex continued fractions. We further introduce a new “serendipity” condition for a continued fraction algorithm, which controls the long-term behavior of the boundary of the fundamental domain under iteration of the continued fraction map, and which is under reasonable conditions equivalent to the finite range property. We also show that the finite range condition is extremely delicate: perturbations of serendipitous systems by non-quadratic irrationals do not remain serendipitous, and experimental evidence suggests that serendipity may fail even for some rational perturbations.
Parabolic and near-parabolic renormalizations for local degree three
Authors: Yang Fei
Published: January 2025

The invariant class under parabolic and near-parabolic renormalizations constructed by Inou and Shishikura has been proved to be extremely useful in recent years. It leads to several important progresses on the dynamics of certain holomorphic maps with critical points of local degree two. In this paper, we construct a new class consisting of holomorphic maps with critical points of local degree three which is invariant under parabolic and near-parabolic renormalizations. As potential applications, some results of cubic unicritical polynomials can be obtained similarly as the quadratic case. For example, the existence of cubic unicritical Julia sets with positive area, the characterizations of the topology and geometry of cubic irrationally indifferent attractors etc.
Conclusion
Authors: Shanahan Brendan A
Published: January 2025

The conclusion summarizes the main arguments of the book and considers developments in nativist state politics and alienage law since 1965. It asks whether we should understand the proliferation of recent and ongoing battles over immigration federalism primarily as continuous with, distinct from, or a reboot of earlier debates over disparate regimes of citizenship rights. It contends that there are more differences than continuities between the pre- and post-1965 periods. But it also argues that more recent developments often operate on the premise that citizenship rights as citizen-only rights are real, carry weight, and can be—at least theoretically—defined. This, the conclusion argues, is a direct legacy of earlier disputes over nativist state politics and alienage law waged from the late nineteenth to the mid-twentieth centuries.
Two-Sample Distribution Tests in High Dimensions via Max-Sliced Wasserstein Distance and Bootstrapping
Authors: Hu Xiaoyu , Lin Zhenhua
Published: January 2025

Two-sample hypothesis testing is a fundamental statistical problem for inference about two populations. In this paper, we construct a novel test statistic to detect high-dimensional distributional differences based on the max-sliced Wasserstein distance to mitigate the curse of dimensionality. By exploiting an intriguing link between the distance and suprema of empirical processes, we develop an effective bootstrapping procedure to approximate the null distribution of the test statistic. One distinctive feature of the proposed test is the ability to construct simultaneous confidence intervals for the max-sliced Wasserstein distances of projected distributions of interest. This enables not only the detection of global distributional differences but also the identification of significantly different marginal distributions between two populations, without the need for additional tests. We establish the convergence of Gaussian and bootstrap approximations of the proposed test, based on which we show that the test is asymptotically valid and powerful as long as the considered max-sliced Wasserstein distance is adequately large. The merits of our approach are illustrated via simulated and real data examples.
Un/heard, un/informed, un/involved: Meaningful participation for young people receiving child welfare services
Authors: Khan Anam , Ungar Michael
Published: January 2025

Children have the right to be heard in child protection proceedings. However, in social work, young people receiving protective services are often perceived as vulnerable and in need of protection, an attitude which prevents young people from participating in making important decisions that affect their lives. In this article, child participation in child welfare services (CWS) is explored through qualitative interviews with thirty-three young people aged fourteen to nineteen, receiving CWS in Nova Scotia, Canada. A thematic analysis of the findings highlighted four overarching themes—un/heard, un/informed, un/involved, and coping strategies—to describe youths’ experiences with service providers. The findings suggest that involving children in casework, including decisions regarding placement, has the potential to foster trust in care providers, improve cooperation and access to formal and informal supports, and enhance child well-being during and after receiving CWS.
A bioactive Hydrogel Patch Accelerates Revascularization in Ischemic Lesions for Tissue Repair
Authors: Liu Zhuo , Wu Kang , Zeng Hong , Huang Wenxin , Wang Xuemeng , Qu Ying , Chen Chuntao , Zhang Lei , Sun Dongpin , Chen Sifeng , Lin Xiao , Sun Ning , Yang Lei , Xu Chen
Published: January 2025

Background

Magnesium ions play crucial roles in maintaining cellular functions. Research has shown that Mg2+ can promote angiogenesis, indicating its potential for treating cardiovascular ischemic diseases. However, conventional intravenous or oral administration of Mg2+ presents several challenges, including the risk of systemic side effects, diminished bioavailability, and a lack of targeted delivery mechanisms. In this study, we designed a Mg2+-releasing adhesive tissue patch (MgAP) that enables the dural release of Mg2+ ions.

Methods

A novel Mg2+-releasing adhesive patch (MgAP) was developed on the basis of ionic crosslinking. Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy confirmed the chemical structure, whereas rheological analysis demonstrated stable mechanical properties and adaptability to dynamic loads. Sustained Mg2+ release was quantified over 7 days by inductively coupled plasma–mass spectrometry. In a rat acute myocardial infarction model, we performed echocardiography and strain analysis to assess cardiac function and histological staining to evaluate adverse remodeling. We also verified the proangiogenic effect through in vitro tube formation and in vivo immunofluorescence assays. Furthermore, transcriptomics and Western blotting were performed to explore the underlying mechanism. Additional assessments were also carried out in a rat model of lower limb ischemia.

Results

Compared with intravenous administration of magnesium chloride, MgAP application effectively improved cardiac function and reduced adverse remodeling in the myocardial infarction rat model. The left ventricular ejection fraction increased by 20.3 ± 6.6%, and the cardiac radial strain improved by 27.4 ± 4.1%. The cardiac fibrosis area and cell apoptosis rate decreased by 10.9 ± 1.2% and 32.1 ± 5.5%, respectively. RNA sequencing analysis also highlighted the upregulation of genes related to cardiac electrophysiological properties, structural and functional intercellular connections, and revascularization. The increased gap junction protein expression and restored local blood supply could contribute to the cardiac repair process posttreatment. The proangiogenic effect of MgAP was also observed in the rat limb ischemia model.

Conclusions

The above results revealed the convincing vascular regeneration effect of an ion therapy-based hydrogel, which enabled the local delivery of Mg2+ to the targeted ischemic tissue, aiding in cardiac and lower limb repair. This study presents a novel strategy and highlights its potential for use across various ischemic conditions.
Mobile/wearable digital devices for care of active cancer patients: a survey from the ESC Council of Cardio-Oncology
Authors: Boriani Giuseppe , Imberti Jacopo F , Asteggiano Riccardo , Ameri Pietro , Mei Davide A , Farkowski Michał , Chun Julian , Merino Josè Luis , Lopez-Fernandez Teresa , Lyon Alexander R
Published: January 2025

Aims

The Council of Cardio-Oncology of the European Society of Cardiology developed an on-line anonymous survey to provide an overall picture of the current practice on the use of mobile and wearable digital devices in cardio-oncology and the potential barriers to their large-scale applicability.

Methods and results

Between June 2023 and January 2024, an online anonymous questionnaire was completed by 220 healthcare professionals from 55 countries. The greatest number of respondents reported that mobile/wearable digital devices have a role in all active cancer patients for measuring heart rate (33.9%), blood pressure (34.4%), body temperature (32.0%), physical activity (42.4%), and sleep (31.2%). In the setting of atrial fibrillation detection, respondents were evenly split between applying these technologies in all patients (33.0%) or only in selected patients (33.0%). Regarding QTc interval monitoring, 30.6% reported that mobile/wearable digital devices play a role only in selected patients. The decision to use the device was taken by the patient in 56.6% of cases and the physician in 43.4%. The most important barrier reported to mobile/wearable device implementation in the setting of cardiac rhythm monitoring and QTc measurement was their cost (weighted average: 3.38 and 3.39, respectively).

Conclusion

Mobile/wearable digital devices are considered to play an important role in different settings of cardio-oncology, including monitoring of patients’ parameters and arrhythmia detection. Their role in monitoring physical activity and QTc interval appears more nuanced. The most important perceived barrier to mobile/wearable digital device implementation is considered their high cost.
Evaluation and calibration of the array-layout effects in dispersion spectra obtained from the frequency–Bessel transform
Authors: Zhou Jie , Li Zhengbo , Chen Xiaofei
Published: January 2025

Dispersion curves of surface waves are widely used for the inversion of subsurface structures. To extract dispersion curves, many methods have been developed. Among them, multichannel analysis of surface waves such as slant stack and frequency–Bessel transform can extract not only the fundamental mode, but also overtones. Inversion with overtones is proven to be more stable and has better resolution at greater depths. However, with a limited number of array receivers, artefacts and misfits due to array-layout effects arise in the dispersion spectra and impede the identification of dispersion curves. We evaluate the array-layout effects in the frequency–Bessel transform and calculate the array response functions which can help to mitigate artefacts and calibrate dispersion curves. We apply this technique to synthetic simulated, active source and ambient noise data. The artefacts caused by array-layout effects can be mitigated, which helps the identification of dispersion curves. We further calculate the Pearson correlation coefficient between the array response function and the dispersion spectrum section. It is used to calibrate the biases produced by the array-layout effects if we select dispersion curves by maximum values. The confidence intervals of the dispersion curves are then determined based on the correlation coefficients. It is helpful for the design of array layouts according to the investigation depths of interest.
Genome assembly of pomegranate highlights structural variations driving population differentiation and key loci underpinning cold adaption
Authors: Luo Xiang , Shua Zhenyang , Zhao Diguang , Liu Beibei , Luo Hua , Chen Ying , Meng Dong , Song Zhihua , Yang Qing , Wang Zicheng , Tang Dong , Zhang Xingguo , Zhang Juan , Ma Kai , Yao Wen
Published: January 2025

Cold damage poses a significant challenge to the cultivation of soft-seeded pomegranate varieties, hindering the growth of the pomegranate industry. The genetic basis of cold tolerance in pomegranates has remained elusive, largely due to the lack of high-quality genome assemblies for cold-tolerant varieties and comprehensive population-scale genomic studies. In this study, we addressed these challenges by assembling a high-quality chromosome-level reference genome for 'Sanbai', a pomegranate variety renowned for its freezing resistance, achieving an impressive contig N50 of 15.93 Mb. This robust assembly, enhanced by long-read sequencing of 38 pomegranate accessions, facilitated the identification of 14,239 polymorphic structural variants, revealing their critical roles in genomic diversity and population differentiation related to cold tolerance. Of particular significance was the discovery of a ~5.4-Mb inversion on chromosome 1, which emerged as an important factor affecting cold tolerance in pomegranate. Moreover, through the integration of bulked segregant analysis, differential selection analysis, and genetic transformation techniques, we identified and validated the interaction between the PgNAC12 transcription factor and PgCBF1, disclosing their pivotal roles in response to cold stress. These findings mark a significant advancement in pomegranate genomics, offering novel insights into the genetic mechanisms of cold tolerance and providing valuable resources for the genetic improvement of soft-seeded pomegranate varieties.
Economic benefits of new broadband network coverage and service adoption: evidence from OECD member states
Authors: Briglauer Wolfgang , Cambini Carlo , Gugler Klaus , Sabatino Lorien
Published: January 2025

A broad-scale rollout and adoption of new broadband networks and services, respectively, are expected to generate innovative services for consumers and create a high potential for productivity increases and economic growth. However, there is no evidence available on the causal impact of both broadband coverage and adoption on economic outcomes, which we measure as gross domestic product (GDP). Moreover, no study has yet simultaneously considered the impact of both new wireline broadband based on fiber-optic technologies and wireless (mobile) broadband based on 3G+/4G technologies. Distinguishing these effects is of crucial relevance for the efficient design of broadband policies. To provide reliable evidence on causal effects, we utilize comprehensive panel data for 32 Organisation for Economic Co-operation and Development (OECD) countries for the years 2002–2020 and panel fixed-effects estimators including instrumental variables estimation. Our results show that both fixed and mobile broadband adoption exert a substantial and significant impact on GDP, while network deployment per se exhibits only minor multiplier-related effects on GDP per capita. Contemporaneous effects of a 1% increase in fixed broadband adoption impact GDP per capita growth in a range of 0.026–0.034%, while a 1% increase in mobile broadband adoption contributes between 0.092% and 0.102%. While the impact of contemporaneous mobile broadband adoption is substantially higher, fixed broadband adoption shows stronger dynamic and cumulative effects, as well as larger effects in later deployment periods. Generally, our results are consistent with the notion that the adoption of technologies to substantial proportions of the population is most important in driving economic growth.
Comic objectification
Authors: Walker Zoe
Published: January 2025

Is finding someone funny a way of treating them as an object? And if so, does that make it immoral? In this paper, I argue that seeing someone as comic involves failing to take into account their subjectivity, which makes it a form of objectification. As for the morality of this ‘comic objectification’, I argue that regarding someone with a comically objectifying attitude is wrongful when such an attitude plays a role in legitimating the oppression of members of their social group.
A rapid literature review of the impact of penicillin allergy on antibiotic resistance
Authors: Ahmed Shadia , Sandoe Jonathan A T
Published: January 2025

Background

Antimicrobial resistance (AMR) is caused by the use and misuse of antibiotics. AMR is a global health concern, to which penicillin allergy (penA) labels appear to contribute. Patients who have penA labels are treated with non-penicillin antibiotics and receive more antibiotics when compared with patients without penA. Although penA is common, after formal allergy assessments, >90% of people with a penA label are found not to be allergic; therefore, broad-spectrum antibiotics are being misused and overused unnecessarily in these patients. Antimicrobial stewardship policies now advocate assessment to identify and remove incorrect penA labels; however, there is limited evidence on whether rectifying incorrect penA labels results in less AMR. This review aimed to assess the association between AMR and antibiotic allergy labels.

Methods

A comprehensive literature search using EMBASE and MEDLINE databases was conducted. Studies were included if they compared the presence of infection or colonization with an antimicrobial-resistant organism in participants with and without antibiotic allergy.

Results

Thirty-three studies were included, and all the studies were observational in design and included a variety of patient groups. Eighteen studies compared AMR outcomes in participants with and without penA, and the rest investigated the impact of beta-lactam allergy or any antibiotic allergy on AMR outcomes. MRSA was the most investigated pathogen, and 11 of 13 studies showed that penA was associated with MRSA. PenA labels were also associated with vancomycin-resistant enterococci (three of five studies). There was limited evidence on the impact of penA on extended-spectrum beta-lactamase-producing Enterobacterales and resistant Streptococcus pneumoniae.

Conclusion

The presence of penA labels is associated with antibiotic resistance in key pathogens in a wide variety of patient groups.