bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Optimal Control of Material Microstructures
Authors: Sharma Aayushman , Mao Zirui , Yang Haiying , Chakravorty Suman , Demkowicz Michael J. , Kalathil Dileep
Published: June 2024

In this paper, we consider the optimal control of material microstructures. Such material microstructures are modeled by the so-called phase-field model. We study the underlying physical structure of the model and propose a data-based approach for its optimal control, along with a comparison to the control using a state-of-the-art reinforcement learning (RL) algorithm. Simulation results show the feasibility of optimally controlling such microstructures to attain desired material properties and complex target microstructures.
Investigation of the Impacts of Solder Alloy Composition and Temperature Profile on Fatigue Life of Ball Grid Array Solder Joints Under Accelerated Thermal Cycling
Authors: Apalowo Rilwan Kayode , Abas Mohamad Aizat , Mukhtar Muhamed Abdul Fatah Muhamed , Ramli Mohamad Riduwan
Published: June 2024

This study investigated the thermal fatigue reliability of ball grid array (BGA) solder joints under accelerated thermal cycling, considering the impacts of solder alloy and temperature profile. Applying the Darveaux solder joint reliability assessment, simulations consider lead-based (63Sn37Pb and 62Sn36Pb2Ag) and lead-free (SAC105, SAC305, and SAC405) solder alloys under temperature profiles: 0°C (Tmin) to 100°C (Tmax), −40°C to 85 °C, −40 °C to 125 °C, and −40 °C to 150 °C. Results indicate that SAC305 exhibited the highest equivalent stress, while 63Sn37Pb demonstrated the highest plastic strain and creep strain energy density. SAC105 displayed the lowest stress and strain parameters. Moreover, increasing the thermal cycling temperature range intensifies stress, strain, and damage parameters, with −40 °C to 150 °C showing the highest magnitudes. SAC405 exhibited superior thermal fatigue life compared to other alloys, with its cycles to failure outperforming 63Sn37Pb, SAC105, 63Sn36Pb2Ag, and SAC305 by 16832, 11992, 6218, and 3601 cycles, respectively. Lower temperature ranges enhance thermal fatigue life, with 0 °C to 100 °C recording 8%, 33%, and 53% higher life than −40 °C to 85 °C, −40 °C to 125 °C, and −40 °C to 150 °C, respectively. Notably, higher silver content and lower temperature ranges were associated with increased thermal fatigue life, providing valuable insights for BGA solder joint reliability enhancement.
Analysis of Variation in Sagittal Curvature of the Femoral Condyles
Authors: Winslow Eden , Pan Xuanbei , Hull Maury L.
Published: June 2024

In designing femoral components, which restore native (i.e., healthy) knee kinematics, the flexion–extension (F-E) axis of the tibiofemoral joint should match that of the native knee. Because the F–E axis is governed by the curvature of the femoral condyles in the sagittal plane, the primary objective was to determine the variation in radii of curvature. Eleven high accuracy three-dimensional (3D) femur models were generated from ultrahigh resolution CT scans. The sagittal profile of each condyle was created. The radii of curvature at 15 deg increments of arc length were determined based on segment circles best-fit to ±15 deg of arc at each increment. Results were standardized to the radius of the best-fit overall circle to 15 deg–105 deg for the femoral condyle having a radius closest to the mean radius. Medial and lateral femoral condyles exhibited multiradius of curvature sagittal profiles where the radius decreased at 30 deg flexion by 10 mm and at 15 deg flexion by 8 mm, respectively. On either side of the decrease, radii of segment circles were relatively constant. Beyond the transition angles where the radii decreased, the anterior-posterior (A-P) positions of the centers of curvature varied 4.8 mm and 2.3 mm for the medial and lateral condyles, respectively. A two-radius of curvature profile approximates the radii of curvature of both native femoral condyles, but the transition angles differ with the transition angle of the medial femoral condyle occurring about 15 deg later in flexion. Owing to variation in A-P positions of centers of curvature, the F-E axis is not strictly fixed in the femur.
A Trajectory Planning Method for Capture Operation of Space Robotic Arm Based on Deep Reinforcement Learning
Authors: Song Bing Yang , Li Jin Quan , Liu Xiao Yu , Wang Guo Lei
Published: June 2024

In order to deal with the complex dynamics and control problems involved in space debris removal, a trajectory planning technique for a spatial robotic arm based on twin delayed DDPG (TD3) in deep reinforcement learning is proposed, and it can accomplish an end-to-end control effect comparable to that of human hand gripping objects. The trajectory planning method for capturing space debris by a floating-base space robotic arm is realized using a space robotic arm task simulation platform built on MuJoCo and using trajectory planners, trajectory trackers, and joint and end-effector control strategies formulated with seven different weighted reward functions. This makes it easier to complete spacecraft in-orbit servicing and maintenance missions. The experiment results demonstrate that the capture strategy can maintain a capture success rate of more than 99%, and debris capture can be mostly finished in three stages when taking the stability of the floating base into consideration by continuously modifying the trajectory.
Structural Integrity Analysis of Marine Dynamic Cables: Water Trees and Fatigue
Authors: Ringsberg Jonas W. , Li Zhiyuan , McCormick Robbie , Fagan Nicholas , Stewart Greg , Marwood Tom
Published: June 2024

Offshore power cables are typically designed to have a service life of around 25 years. A pattern is emerging where these cables only last 10 years or even as little as two. The main consensus as to why the service life is so short is due to a combination of fatigue and fretting/wear damages of the copper conductors and water treeing in the insulation material. This study presents a method that can be used to analyze the structural integrity of dynamic subsea power cables and estimate their service life determined by the factors above. The numerical simulation models developed and used to carry out global and local fatigue analyses of dynamic subsea power cables are presented, together with methods and models for assessing fretting, wear, and growth of water tree defects. A methodology for structural integrity assessment that includes all these factors is proposed. A dynamic subsea power cable connected to a wave energy converter is used as the case study for comparison of the service life when these factors are considered compared to when, e.g., the growth of water trees is excluded. A numerical sensitivity analysis demonstrates that the value of the seawater's electrical conductivity and the insulation material's threshold stress-intensity factor greatly influence the cable's service life.
Exploring the Use of Fe2.5Ni2.5Sn3 as a Monolithic Catalyst for Oxygen Evolution Reaction Under Alkaline Conditions
Authors: Moore Craig , Chidambaram Dev
Published: June 2024

Enabling a hydrogen fuel-based economy is reliant on the discovery of materials that catalyze the electrolysis of water which requires low-cost catalytic electrodes to improve the kinetics of the oxygen evolution reaction. Fe2.5Ni2.5Sn3, was prepared by arc-melting and electrochemical studies were conducted to evaluate its ability to catalyze the oxygen evolution reaction. Potentiodynamic polarization testing revealed that the Fe2.5Ni2.5Sn3 alloy had a Tafel slope of 48 mV/decade and required an overpotential of 326 mV in order to obtain a current density of 10 mA/cm2. X-ray photoelectron spectroscopy studies indicated that the native oxide present on the surface became hydrated upon subjecting it to oxygen evolution studies.
Intradermal infection and dissemination of
Candida auris
in immunocompetent and immunocompromised mouse models
Authors: Towns Kristine A. , Datta Abhishek , Thangamani Shankar
Published: June 2024

Candida auris,
an emerging fungal pathogen, predominately colonizes human skin leading to serious invasive infections in humans. Though it is assumed that skin colonization can lead to invasive infection, dissemination potential of
C. auris
from skin to internal organs is still unknown. In this study, immunocompetent and immunocompromised mouse models of intradermal skin infection were used to compare the dissemination potential of
C. auris
to internal organs. Our results suggest that
C. auris
persists in the skin tissue of both immunocompetent and immunocompromised infected mice even at 30 days post-infection. Furthermore,
C. auris
can readily disseminate from skin tissue to internal organs such as the spleen and kidney as early as 24 h post-infection and was detected until 30 days post-infection. Taken together, our findings for the first time indicate that murine skin intradermally infected with
C. auris
can readily disseminate to internal organs and cause invasive infections.

IMPORTANCE

Candida auris
is a multi-drug-resistant emerging fungal pathogen colonizes the human skin and causes life-threatening infections. However, whether
C. auris
can disseminate from the skin to internal organs is unclear. Understanding the dissemination potential of
C. auris
in both immunocompetent and immunocompromised hosts is necessary to monitor susceptible individuals and to develop novel approaches to prevent and treat this emerging fungal pathogen. Using mouse models of intradermal
C. auris
skin infection, our findings report a novel observation that mice skin intradermally infected with
C. auris
can readily disseminate to internal organs leading to systemic disease. These findings help explain the colonization, persistence, and dissemination potential of
C. auris
in immunocompetent and immunocompromised hosts and reveal that skin infection is a potential source of invasive infection.
Diversity and saline-alkali resistance of Coleoptera endosymbiont bacteria in arid and semi-arid climate
Authors: Yue Haitao , Ma Xiaoyun , Sun Shuwen , Hu Hongying , Wu Jieyi , Xu Tong , Huang Danyang , Luo Yiqian , Wu Junqiang , Huang Tingting
Published: June 2024

Soil salinization usually occurs in arid and semi-arid climate areas from 37 to 50 degrees north latitude and 73 to 123 degrees east longitude. These regions are inhabited by a large number of Coleopteran insects, which play an important role in the ecological cycle. However, little is known about the endosymbiotic microbial taxa and their biological characteristics in these insects. A study of endosymbiotic microorganisms of Coleoptera from Xinjiang, a typical arid and inland saline area, revealed that endosymbiont bacteria with salinity tolerance are common among the endosymbionts of Coleoptera. Functional prediction of the microbiota analysis indicated a higher abundance of inorganic ion transporters and metabolism in these endosymbiont strains. Screening was conducted on the tolerable 11% NaCl levels of
Brevibacterium casei
G20 (
PRJNA754761
), and differential metabolite and proteins were performed. The differential metabolites of the strain during the exponential and plateau phases were found to include benzene compounds, organic acids, and their derivatives. These results suggest that the endosymbiotic microorganisms of Coleoptera in this environment have adaptive evolution to extreme environments, and this group of microorganisms is also one of the important resources for mining saline and alkaline-tolerant chassis microorganisms and high-robustness enzymes.

IMPORTANCE

Coleoptera insects, as the first largest order of insect class, have the characteristics of a wide variety and wide distribution. The arid and semi-arid climate makes it more adaptable. By studying the endosymbiont bacteria of Coleoptera insects, we can systematically understand the adaptability of endosymbiont bacteria to host and special environment. Through the analysis of endosymbiont bacteria of Coleoptera insects in different saline-alkali areas in arid and semi-arid regions of Xinjiang, it was found that bacteria in different host samples were resistant to saline-alkali stress. These results suggest that bacteria and their hosts co-evolved in response to this climate. Therefore, this study is of great significance for understanding the endosymbiont bacteria of Coleoptera insects and obtaining extremophile resources (Saline-alkali-resistant chassis strains with modification potential for the production of bulk chemicals and highly robust industrial enzymes).
Implementation of an ISO 15189 accredited next generation sequencing service for cell-free total nucleic acid (cfTNA) analysis to facilitate driver mutation reporting in blood: the experience of a clinical diagnostic laboratory
Authors: Werner Reiltin , Crosbie Ruth , Dorney Mairead , Connolly Amy , Collins Dearbhaile , Hand Collette K , Burke Louise
Published: June 2024

Aims

Next generation sequencing (NGS) on tumour tissue is integral to the delivery of personalised medicine and targeted therapy. NGS on liquid biopsy, a much less invasive technology, is an emerging clinical tool that has rapidly expanded clinical utility. Gene mutations in cell-free total nucleic acids (cfTNA) circulating in the blood are representative of whole tumour biology and can reveal different mutations from different tumour sites, thus addressing tumour heterogeneity challenges.

Methods

The novel Ion Torrent Genexus NGS system with automated sample preparation, onboard library preparation, templating, sequencing, data analysis and Oncomine Reporter software was used. cfTNA extracted from plasma was verified with the targeted pan-cancer (~50 genes) Oncomine Precision Assay (OPA). Assessment criteria included analytical sensitivity, specificity, limits of detection (LOD), accuracy, repeatability, reproducibility and the establishment of performance metrics.

Results

An ISO 15189 accredited, minimally invasive cfTNA NGS diagnostic service has been implemented. High sensitivity (>83%) and specificity between plasma and tissue were observed. A sequencing LOD of 1.2% was achieved when the depth of coverage was >22 000×. A reduction (>68%) in turnaround time (TAT) of liquid biopsy results was achieved: 5 days TAT for in-house analysis from sample receipt to a final report issued to oncologists as compared with >15 days from reference laboratories.

Conclusion

Tumour-derived somatic variants can now be reliably assessed from plasma to provide minimally invasive tumour profiling. Successful implementation of this accredited service resulted in:

Appropriate molecular profiling of patients where tumour tissue is unavailable or inaccessible.

Rapid TAT of plasma NGS results.
The Cost of Dying Exhibition: public, professional and political reactions to a visual exhibition depicting experiences of poverty at the end of life
Authors: Quinn Sam , Richards Naomi
Published: June 2024

Public health approaches to palliative care are internationally endorsed for their potential to improve the social determinants of dying such as energy costs, transport and housing. Enhancing public understanding of inequities in end of life experiences, which exist even in economically advanced countries, is vital if the value of public health approaches are to be endorsed and invested in. Visual exhibitions have a strong tradition of raising awareness and influencing public health discourse. The UK-based Cost of Dying exhibition (April–August 2023) presented real examples of how financial hardship and deprivation intersect with end of life experience through professional portraits, photovoice imagery taken by individuals at the end of their lives, and digital stories co-produced with bereaved relatives. Three iterations of the exhibition were displayed at public venues and a health conference. Evaluation methods comprised anonymous feedback cards (n=208), panel discussions and social media reactions. Thematic analysis was used to identify themes within the feedback. The emotional resonance of the exhibition was a key theme, with attendees expressing sadness, anger, empathy and hope. Visitors found the exhibition thought-provoking and expressed that it countered existing stereotypes about what it means to experience financial hardship at the end of life. The exhibition spurred calls for change, with some attendees questioning in what capacity they could help. Individuals with expertise in end of life care reported that the imagery validated their professional experiences. In conclusion, the Cost of Dying exhibition made visible the struggles endured by individuals confronting financial hardship and material deprivation at the end of life. Such exhibitions can challenge the traditional view of dying as a swift process taking place sequestered in institutions, revealing that it often unfolds over time and individuals may continue to live at home in the community, struggling with unmet needs and unresponsive state services.
Effects of ballistic transport on the thermal resistance and temperature profile in nanowires
Authors: Meyer R. , Gibson Graham W. , Robillard Alexander N.
Published: June 2024

Effects of ballistic transport on the temperature profiles and thermal resistance in nanowires are studied. Computer simulations of nanowires between a heat source and a heat sink have shown that in the middle of such wires the temperature gradient is reduced compared to Fourier’s law with steep gradients close to the heat source and sink. In this work, results from molecular dynamics and phonon Monte Carlo simulations of the heat transport in nanowires are compared to a radiator model which predicts a reduced gradient with discrete jumps at the wire ends. The comparison shows that for wires longer than the typical mean free path of phonons the radiator model is able to account for ballistic transport effects. The steep gradients at the wire ends are then continuous manifestations of the discrete jumps in the model.

Graphical abstract
Six-Axis Robotic Gripping Control Algorithm Based on Deep Learning
Authors: Xiong Changwei , Zhang Yanqin , Shu Yufeng , Chen Chaodong
Published: June 2024

Due to several complex factors such as the type, size, and shape of target object, vision-assisted robot grasping technology still faces serious challenges. In this research, a deep learning-based robot hand vision grasping algorithm was developed considering semi-structural environmental constraints. The proposed algorithm could build a deep learning network on the basis of the desired object, perform object recognition, category classification and position judgment, and complete robot hand-grasping tasks. The obtained experimental results demonstrated that the proposed algorithm effectively solved the problem of recognizing and classifying multi-category objects in a semi-structured environment, improving recognition rate and grasping rate and reducing collision rate.
Scalar field inflation driven by a modification of the Heisenberg algebra
Authors: García-Compeán H. , Mata-Pacheco D.
Published: June 2024

In this paper, we study the modifications induced on scalar field inflation produced by considering a general modification of the Heisenberg algebra. We proceed by modifying the Poisson brackets on the classical theory whenever the corresponding quantum commutator is modified. We do not restrict ourselves to a specific form for such modification, instead we constrain the functions involved by the cosmological behavior of interest. We present whenever possible the way in which inflation can be realized approximately via three slow roll Hubble parameters that depend on the standard slow roll parameters in a very different form than in the usual case and that can be less restrictive. Furthermore, we find a general analytical solution describing an expanding universe with constant Hubble parameter that generalizes the standard cosmological constant case by restricting the form of the modification of the Heisenberg algebra. It is found that even if such modification can be neglected in some limit and the cosmological constant is set to zero in that limit, the exponential expansion is present when the modification is important. Thus, an appropriate modification of the Heisenberg algebra is sufficient to produce an exponentially expanding universe without the need of any other source.
ANALYSIS OF THE VARIATIONS IN BRAIN ACTIVITY IN RESPONSE TO VARIOUS COMPUTER GAMES
Authors: VIVEKANANDHAN GAYATHRI , KARTHIKEYAN ANITHA , PAKNIYAT NAJMEH , MAREK PENHAKER , KREJCAR ONDREJ , NAMAZI HAMIDREZA
Published: June 2024

The influence of video games on the human brain has been a topic of extensive research and discussion. Video games, characterized by their dynamic and immersive qualities, have demonstrated the capacity to impact diverse cognitive processes. In this study, we conducted a detailed analysis of brain response variations to different genres of computer games, specifically focusing on boring, calm, horror, and funny games. To achieve this, we computed the sample entropy and approximate entropy of electroencephalograms (EEG) signals recorded from participants while they engaged with each type of game. Our findings revealed that EEG signals exhibited the highest complexity during the funny game and the lowest complexity during the calm game. This suggests that the brain is most active when playing the funny game and least active during the calm game. These results provide valuable insights into how different types of video game content can influence brain activity. The methodology employed in this study can be extended to explore brain activity under various conditions, potentially offering a broader understanding of how different stimuli impact cognitive processes. This approach can be useful in examining the effects of various interactive media on brain function and could inform the design of video games and other digital experiences to optimize cognitive engagement and mental well-being.
Dynamic Analysis of Rigid–Flexible Structures with Piezoelectric Actuation and Control
Authors: Hu Yudong , Chen Chen , Fan Mu , Gao Changsheng
Published: June 2024

In this paper, the dynamic equation of a rigid body coupled with two flexible beams was established, considering the rotational motion of the rigid body and the elastic deflection of the flexible beams. The coupling effect between the rigid body rotation and flexible beam vibration was studied in detail. The dynamic response of the flexible beam with piezoelectric effect was established based on Hamilton’s principle. Under the premise of ignoring the nonlinear vibration coupling term of flexible beams, only the first two modes of transverse displacement and one directional rotation motion were studied in case studies. It was found that the coupling term caused by rigid body rotation can slightly alter the natural frequency and amplitude of flexible beams, mainly reflected in the first-order mode. With increasing the external excitation on the rigid body, the induced transverse displacement at the tip of the flexible beam increased significantly. Meanwhile, when the flexible beam was under external excitation, the vibration could also induce rigid body rotation. With the inverse piezoelectric effect, one may actively actuate the flexible beam vibration and rigid body rotation or control the undesired motion of the system. The control effect can be adjusted by varying the applied voltage excitation on the piezoelectric patches as well as patch positions. The conclusions drawn from this study can be applied to active precise control of space facilities such as satellites. Based on the dynamic modeling of rigid–flexible multi-body systems, this paper completed the study of the coupling effects of rigid body rotation and flexible body vibration, and proposed an application idea for completing small-angle maneuvers of rigid–flexible multi-body systems through piezoelectric control.
Adoption of Fintech for Sustainable Administrative Efficiency of Higher Educational Institutions: Bangladesh Perspective
Authors: Uddin Md. Momin , Sultana Shaharia , Rima Sharmin
Published: June 2024

Fintech solutions offer innovative tools and platforms that streamline financial operations, enhance convenience, and improve efficiency. The purpose of this research is to examine the impact of fintech on administrative efficiency among universities in Bangladesh. To fulfil this purpose, this research assesses the current level of fintech adoption among university students in Bangladesh and seeks to gain insights into students’ perceptions and attitudes towards fintech, particularly in relation to its impact on administrative tasks within their respective universities. Finally, this research identifies the challenges and opportunities associated with the integration of fintech in administrative processes and explores potential strategies to address them effectively. This research used both quantitative and qualitative strategies to achieve these goals. A survey was conducted to collect quantitative data from the university students of Bangladesh. Findings show that the adoption and usage of fintech have a statistically significant positive impact on administrative efficiency, resource allocation and utilisation, enhanced communication, and a sustainable and eco-friendly administrative environment.
A Chain Scission-Induced Anisotropic Damage Constitutive Model for Double Network Hydrogels
Authors: Lei Jincheng , Liu Zishun
Published: June 2024

This work develops a chain scission-induced anisotropic damage constitutive model for double network (DN) hydrogels while considering the damage cross effect. A free energy of a single polymer chain comprising the configuration entropy of the polymer chain and the internal energy of persistent segments is proposed to avoid the force singularity caused by chain stretch limit. Then, a distribution function of the initial stretch ratio of polymer chains in DN hydrogels is derived to consider the randomness of chain length. Based on the micro-sphere full-network model and an energy-form fracture criterion of polymer chains, the damage evolution model of polymer chains in a certain orientation is formulated by the critical initial stretch ratio of the polymer chain, showing that only polymer chains with the initial stretch ratio lower than the critical initial stretch ratio survive in a certain chain stretch. The critical initial stretch ratio is determined by the maximum chain stretch and the maximum first invariant of the deformation state by considering the damage cross effect. Using the developed damage constitutive model, we describe the stress softening, strain hardening behavior and the nonmonotonic stress–strain curve of DN hydrogels. It also reveals that the residual strain of DN hydrogels in the loading cycles is caused by the anisotropic damage of polymer chains in DN hydrogels.
CNTFET-Based Single-Ended Fractional Order Colpitts Oscillator: Design, Simulation and Comparative Analysis
Authors: Bhatt Ankita , Alkhammash Hend I. , Loan Sajad A.
Published: June 2024

In this paper, we design and simulate a Single-Ended Colpitts Oscillator (CO) in integer and fractional order domains. The oscillators are realized in 32[Formula: see text]nm node conventional MOSFET and carbon nanotube field effect transistor (CNTFET) technologies. Therefore, four COs have been designed, simulated and rigorously compared. These include integer order conventional MOSFET-based CO, fractional order MOSFET-based CO, CNTFET-based integer order CO and CNTFET-based fractional order CO, all based on 32-nm technology nodes. The fractional order approach has been used as it results in better control over the phase and frequency of the oscillator. Herein, fractional order capacitors of various orders, used in realizing the fractional order COs, are realized and their frequency responses are studied. This is being done to ensure whether the designed pseudo-capacitances have fractional behavior or not in the desired frequency and phase spectrum. It has been observed that the variation of fractional order [Formula: see text] from 0.4 to 0.81 has resulted in a slight reduction of oscillation frequency from 1.68[Formula: see text]GHz ([Formula: see text]) to 1.351[Formula: see text]GHz ([Formula: see text]) keeping the pseudo-capacitance same at 0.3[Formula: see text]nF in MOS-based topology. Since the fractional order realization increases the circuit complexity and power consumption, therefore, CNTFET-based integer order as well as fractional order COs have been designed. The CNTFET-based fractional order CO retains the advantages of the fractional order domain as well as the power efficiency of CNTFETs. Further, it has been observed that integrating fractional-order capacitor (FOC) with the CNTFET CO results in a much larger constant phase zone (CPZ), an important performance measuring parameter. A rigorous comparative analysis of the four COs designed in this work has been performed.
Instant Synthesis of Cu2O Nanoparticles by a Selective Ionic Exchange in Nanozeolite 4A
Authors: Valenzuela-Martínez H. , Britto Hurtado R. , Navarro-Badilla A. , Santacruz-Ortega H. , Brown Francisco , Munguía-Arvayo R. , Flores-López N. S. , Roldan Manuel A. , Mani-González P. G. , Cortez-Valadez Manuel , Flores-Acosta M.
Published: June 2024

This study presents a novel method for synthesizing Cu2O nanoparticles by employing ion exchange within a modified nanozeolite 4A matrix. The nanoparticles had a consistent particle size, predominantly around 6[Formula: see text]nm, with a narrow distribution. Nanosizing of the zeolite was achieved through high-energy milling treatments, thereby enhancing the surface-to-volume ratio. A band close to 700[Formula: see text]cm[Formula: see text] was observed in the FTIR spectrum, potentially indicating that zeolite downsizing was related to symmetric stretching of the Si–O bond postmilling. Furthermore, a distinctive band corresponding to Cu(I)–O stretching vibrations was identified at approximately 600[Formula: see text]cm[Formula: see text]. Additionally, optical absorption analyses of the UV-Vis spectrum revealed two characteristic bands attributable to Cu2O nanoparticles at 370[Formula: see text]nm and 470[Formula: see text]nm. These findings have led to advancements in resource use and promoted sustainable and environmentally friendly production practices.
Cryptanalysis of Selected ARX-Based Block Ciphers
Authors: Gundaram Praveen Kumar
Published: June 2024

The security of digital communication and information systems is mostly dependent on block ciphers. ARX-based ciphers are widely used due to their simplicity and efficiency. This paper provides an exhaustive cryptanalysis of a subset of ARX-based block ciphers, with particular emphasis on SIMON, SPECK, and IDEA. These ciphers need to be exposed for their weaknesses in algebraic attack resistance and cryptographic properties such as key sensitivity. In addition, we assess the resource utilization and speed of these ciphers, both of which are critical for practical implementation. SMT (Satisfiability Modulo Theories) framework is utilized to tackle constraint fulfillment problems based on first-order logic. The following cryptographic steps use SMT solvers: differential cryptanalysis, collision attack, pre-image attack, modular root-finding, and cryptographic primitive verification. We show that SMT solvers can solve block cipher cryptanalysis constraints. In a cryptanalytic attack, we convert block cipher boolean equations to Z3py. The proposed cryptanalysis method evaluates ARX cipher performance. This method recovers the partial secret key using plaintext and ciphertext pairs, partial key bits, and a predetermined number of rounds. To determine whether SIMON, SPECK, or IDEA are appropriate for distinct security requirements, we conducted a comparative analysis of the results and presented them in tabulated form. This research builds a better understanding of ARX-based block ciphers and allows us to develop more robust and efficient cryptographic algorithms to protect sensitive data in modern communication systems.
ε-Nash Equilibrium of Pursuer–Evader–Defender Missile Navigation Dynamic Games
Authors: Noriega-Marquez Sebastian , Hernandez-Sanchez Alejandra , Chairez Isaac , Poznyak Alexander
Published: June 2024

This research is dedicated to developing a min–max robust control strategy for a dynamic game involving pursuers, evaders, and defenders in a multiple-missile scenario. The approach employs neural dynamic programming, utilizing multiple continuous differential neural networks (DNNs). The competitive controller devised addresses the robust optimization of a joint cost function that relies on the trajectories of the pursuer–evader–defender system, accommodating an uncertain mathematical model while adhering to control restrictions. The dynamic programming min–max formulation facilitates robust control by accounting for bounded modeling uncertainties and external disturbances for each game component. The value function of the Hamilton–Jacobi–Bellman (HJB) equation is approximated by a DNN, enabling the estimation of the closed-loop formulation for the joint dynamic game with state restrictions. The controller’s design is grounded in estimating the state trajectory under the worst possible uncertainties and perturbations, providing a robustness factor through the robust neural controller. The learning law class for the time-varying weights in the DNN is generated by studying the HJB partial differential equation for the missile motion for each player in the dynamic game. The controller incorporates the solution of the obtained learning laws and a time-varying Riccati equation, offering an online solution to the control implementation. A recurrent algorithm, based on the Kiefer–Wolfowitz method, adjusts the initial conditions for the weights to satisfy the final condition of the given cost function for the dynamic game. A numerical example is presented to validate the proposed robust control methodology, confirming the optimization solution based on the DNN approximation for Bellman’s value function.
AI Reinvents Chip Design
Authors: Greengard Samuel
Published: June 2024

Chipmakers are turning to artificial intelligence to improve conceptional design, transistor models, simulations and analysis, verification and testing, and more.
Will the metaverse be out of control? Addressing the ethical and governance implications of a developing virtual society
Authors: Effing Robin
Published: June 2024

The development of the metaverse presents novel ethical challenges to society. There is a lack of knowledge of the potential metaverse and its effects on society. In this article, several ethical challenges of the future metaverse are discussed to responsibly prepare for the metaverse. A systematic literature review was conducted that showed the void of literature, meta-information of the state of the field, and level of maturity of the research. After defining the metaverse concept and reviewing its constructs, we present an overview of ethical challenges for the metaverse which ask for governance awareness and responsible action in the future. These ethical challenges have been clustered in the following pairs: Privacy & Freedom, Duplicate & False identities, Abuse & Manipulation, Trade & Ownership, Censorship & Surveillance, Democracy & Participation, and Regulation & Control. Related to these pairs, we also show some potential governance topics as a research agenda for the metaverse.
Comparative Analysis of ChatGPT and Bard in Digital Governance: Accuracy, Adaptability, and Readability Insights
Authors: Raman Raghu , Nair Vinith , Dinesh Sofi , Acharyulu Ramana
Published: June 2024

In a comprehensive assessment of ChatGPT and Bard's performance across three key indices—Government AI Readiness, Digital Economy and Society, and UN E-Government Survey, the study delves into nuanced insights regarding their accuracy, adaptability, and readability within the context of Digital Governance. ChatGPT demonstrated a superior accuracy rate of 93.55%, surpassing Bard's performance at 88.57%. Notably, both models exhibited variations in individual and mutual error correction capabilities, particularly evident when faced with confirmation queries. Bard showcased an adjustment post-confirmation, suggesting potential error correction, whereas ChatGPT displayed limited adaptability in similar scenarios. While there was a notable congruence in their responses to Digital Governance content, challenges arose in deciphering complex information, especially concerning sustainability initiatives. Bard generally produced more accessible content, evident in readability metrics, in contrast to ChatGPT's inclination towards using complex language. Both models demonstrated promising alignment in addressing intricate topics within the realm of Digital Governance. The findings emphasize the need for policymakers to critically evaluate the adaptability and accuracy of language models like ChatGPT and Bard when considering their integration into digital governance practices. Awareness of their diverse performance and error correction capabilities is crucial for responsible implementation, ensuring the maximal benefits of AI in public decision-making.
The rRNA epitranscriptome and myonuclear SNORD landscape in skeletal muscle fibers contributes to ribosome heterogeneity and is altered by a hypertrophic stimulus
Authors: Cui Minying , Jannig Paulo , Halladjian Maral , Figueiredo Vandré C. , Wen Yuan , Vechetti Ivan J. , Krogh Nicolai , Jude Baptiste , Edman Sebastian , Lanner Johanna , McCarthy John , Murach Kevin A. , Sejersen Thomas , Nielsen Henrik , von Walden Ferdinand
Published: June 2024

Ribosomal RNAs (rRNAs) are posttranscriptionally modified by 2′ O-methyl (2′- O-Me). This study applied RiboMeth-seq (RMS) to detect changes in 2′- O-Me levels during skeletal muscle hypertrophy, uncovering transient diversification of the ribosome pool in skeletal muscle fibers. This work implies a role for ribosome heterogeneity in skeletal muscle growth and adaptation.
Muscular hyperplasia in Crohn’s disease strictures: through thick and thin
Authors: Veisman Ido , Massey William J. , Goren Idan , Liu Weiwei , Chauhan Gaurav , Rieder Florian
Published: June 2024

Fibrostenosing Crohn’s disease (CD) represents a challenging clinical condition characterized by the development of symptomatic strictures within the gastrointestinal tract. Despite therapeutic advancements in managing inflammation, the progression of fibrostenotic complications remains a significant concern, often necessitating surgical intervention. Recent investigations have unveiled the pivotal role of smooth muscle cell hyperplasia in driving luminal narrowing and clinical symptomatology. Drawing parallels to analogous inflammatory conditions affecting other organs, such as the airways and blood vessels, sheds light on common underlying mechanisms of muscular hyperplasia. This review synthesizes current evidence to elucidate the mechanisms underlying smooth muscle cell proliferation in CD-associated strictures, offering insights into potential therapeutic targets. By highlighting the emerging significance of muscle thickening as a novel therapeutic target, this review aims to inform future research endeavors and clinical strategies with the goal to mitigate the burden of fibrostenotic complications in CD and other conditions.
Organ dependency on fascia connective tissue
Authors: Lin Yue , Dai Ruoxuan , Vogelaar George , Rinkevich Yuval
Published: June 2024

Fascia is a specialized connective tissue system that encapsulates and interconnects between tissues and organs throughout the body. The fascia system regulates pain sensation, organ inflammation, trauma, and fibrotic diseases. This mini-review summarizes recent findings from animal models, which reveal the inter-dependency between tissues/organs and the fascia system. Special mechanisms are explored of fascia response to skin inflammatory processes and fibrotic microenvironments in trauma models. We highlight the functionally diverse communities of its fascia-born fibroblasts and the significance of their stage-specific differentiation and communication to disease progression. Understanding the molecular mechanisms and cellular processes within the fascia microenvironment may serve as a basis for future clinical translation.
Transmission Dynamics of Monkeypox Virus With Age‐Structured Human Population: A Mathematical Modeling Approach
Authors: Okongo Walter , Okelo Jeconia Abonyo , Gathungu Duncan Kioi , Moore Stephen Edward , Nnaemeka Stanley Aguegboh
Published: June 2024

This study presents a deterministic mathematical model of monkeypox disease transmission dynamics with an age‐structured human population divided into two subgroups of children (Group 1) and adults (Group 2). Two equilibrium points, monkeypox‐free, E0, and a unique monkeypox‐endemic equilibrium point, E1, are established. The age‐structured monkeypox basic reproduction number, ℝ0, is computed using the next‐generation matrix approach and established to be ℝ0 = 1.2448. The Lyapunov functions are constructed; together with LaSalle’s invariance principle, the monkeypox‐free equilibrium point, E0, is established to be globally asymptotically stable whenever ℝ0 ≤ 1, as confirmed by the Lyapunov stability method, and the monkeypox‐endemic equilibrium point, E1, is globally asymptotically stable whenever ℝ0 > 1. Sensitivity analysis of the threshold quantity ℝ0 is performed using the Latin hypercube sampling method and Pearson’s partial rank correlation coefficient, and the results showed that the parameters β11, β22, μ, ν1, Λ1, ν2 were the most sensitive to the spread of monkeypox infection in an age‐structured population. It is, therefore, suggested that the rate of monkeypox infection can be reduced by ensuring that the rate of interaction between susceptible children and infected children and between susceptible adults and infected adults is minimized. Moreover, the spread of monkeypox infection can be curbed by emphasizing controls such as early diagnosis and treatment and hospitalization of critically ill infectives.
CFS‐MOES Ensemble Model on Metaheuristic Search‐Based Feature Selection
Authors: Bhutia Santosini , Patra Bichitrananda , Ray Mitrabinda
Published: June 2024

Cancer is one of the leading causes of death across the globe. There is a need for early diagnosis to improve the chance of successful treatment and reduce the mortality associated with cancer. Due to the availability of highly specialized cancer datasets, molecular classification of cancer by gene expression, machine learning, and deep learning, a part of artificial intelligence (AI) techniques is used in detecting the disease. The application of several classification and feature selection methods on microarray gene expression datasets helps learn models that are able to predict a given disease. However, the tremendous dimensionality of the microarray cancer dataset is the greatest challenge in interpreting the data. In this work, the optimal feature subsets are selected by combining the correlation‐based feature selection (CFS) technique with five distinct meta‐heuristic search methods: evolutionary search (ES), particle swarm optimization search (PSOS), genetic search (GS), harmony search (HS), and multiobject evolutionary search (MOES). Furthermore, a CFS‐MOES (correlation‐based feature selection—multiobject evolutionary search) ensemble model is proposed based on a majority voting mechanism to improve the classification performance. Six microarray cancer datasets are considered, and seven traditional classifiers are evaluated on those datasets. Three classifiers, namely, K‐nearest neighbour (KNN), multilayer perceptron (MLP), and random forest (RF), were chosen as the base classifiers based on their F‐measure score. The features chosen by our proposed CFS‐MOES method significantly improve the accuracy of the proposed model. Moreover, the proposed model has also been compared with the other ensemble models generated using CFS‐ES (correlation‐based feature selection —evolutionary search), CFS‐PSOS (correlation‐based feature selection—particle swarm optimization search), CFS‐GS (correlation‐based feature selection—genetic search), and CFS‐HS (correlation‐based feature selection—harmony search) feature selection methods, ensuring better classification accuracy with a reduced feature subset. This model is also evaluated using significant parameters such as precision, recall, F‐measure, accuracy, Matthews correlation coefficient (MCC), and mean absolute error (MAE). According to the experimental results, our proposed model has a remarkable accuracy of 98.83% for breast cancer and 98.79% for cervical cancer.
Constrained and Unconstrained Optimization Formulations for Structural Elements in Unilateral Contact with an Elastic Foundation
Authors: Silveira Ricardo A. M. , Pereira Wellington L. A. , Gonçalves Paulo B.
Published: June 2024

In this work, two numerical methodologies are proposed for the solution of unilateral contact problems between a structural member (beam or arch) and an elastic foundation. In the first approach, the finite element method is used to discretize the structure and elastic foundation and the contact problem is formulated as a constrained optimization problem. Only the original variables of the problem are used, subjected to inequality constraints, and the relevant equations are written as a linear complementary problem (LCP). The second approach is based on the Ritz method, where the coordinates defining the limits of the contact regions are considered as additional variables of the problem. The contact problem here is treated as an unconstrained optimum design problem. These proposed methodologies are then tested and compared using results from specific problems involving structures under unilateral contact constraints.
Small Cell Lung Cancer Neuronal Features and Their Implications for Tumor Progression, Metastasis, and Therapy
Authors: Hartmann Griffin G. , Sage Julien
Published: June 2024

Small cell lung cancer (SCLC) is an epithelial neuroendocrine form of lung cancer for which survival rates remain dismal and new therapeutic approaches are greatly needed. Key biological features of SCLC tumors include fast growth and widespread metastasis, as well as rapid resistance to treatment. Similar to pulmonary neuroendocrine cells, SCLC cells have traits of both hormone-producing cells and neurons. In this study, we specifically discuss the neuronal features of SCLC. We consider how neuronal G protein–coupled receptors and other neuronal molecules on the surface of SCLC cells can contribute to the growth of SCLC tumors and serve as therapeutic targets in SCLC. We also review recent evidence for the role of neuronal programs expressed by SCLC cells in the fast proliferation, migration, and metastasis of these cells. We further highlight how these neuronal programs may be particularly relevant for the development of brain metastases and how they can assist SCLC cells to functionally interact with neurons and astrocytes. A greater understanding of the molecular and cellular neuronal features of SCLC is likely to uncover new vulnerabilities in SCLC cells, which may help develop novel therapeutic approaches. More generally, the epithelial-to-neuronal transition observed during tumor progression in SCLC and other cancer types can contribute significantly to tumor development and response to therapy.