bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Numerical simulations on compression behaviors of the laminated shale based on the digital image technology and the discrete element method
Authors: Wang Zidong , Ding Xiaoxuan , Liu Jianlin , Fu Li-Yun
Published: July 2024

As an unconventional reservoir sedimentary rock, shale contains a series of layers and various microstructures that lead to complex mechanical properties, such as the anisotropy of stiffness and strength. This study is directed towards the anisotropy caused by the microstructures of the shale, employing the 2D particle flow code (PFC2D) to explore stiffness, strength, failure mode, and micro-crack evolution. More realistic microstructures and the calibration of microscopic parameters of the shale are reasonably considered through the computed tomography (CT) images and mineral analysis. The corresponding numerical simulation results are fully compared with the experimental results. In what follows, the sensitivity analysis is conducted on the key microscopic parameters and microstructure characteristics in numerical samples with laminated characteristics. The results show that the influence of microscopic parameters of the parallel bonding model on macroscopic parameters is related to the layering angle and the face type, and the microstructures and initial cracks of numerical samples can considerably affect the macroscopic mechanical behaviors of the laminated samples. Next, the effect of confining pressure on the mechanical properties of layered shale is also discussed based on the numerical results. These findings highlight the potential of this approach for applications in micro-scaled models and calibration of microscopic parameters to probe mechanical behaviors of the laminated rock.
In silico studies of the open form of human tissue transglutaminase
Authors: Ivashchenko S. D. , Shulga D. A. , Ivashchenko V. D. , Zinovev E. V. , Vlasov A. V.
Published: July 2024

Human tissue transglutaminase (tTG) is an intriguing multifunctional enzyme involved in various diseases, including celiac disease and neurological disorders. Although a number of tTG inhibitors have been developed, the molecular determinants governing ligand binding remain incomplete due to the lack of high-resolution structural data in the vicinity of its active site. In this study, we obtained the complete high-resolution model of tTG by in silico methods based on available PDB structures. We discovered significant differences in the active site architecture between our and known tTG models, revealing an additional loop which affects the ligand binding affinity. We assembled a library of new potential tTG inhibitors based on the obtained complete model of the enzyme. Our library substantially expands the spectrum of possible drug candidates targeting tTG and encompasses twelve molecular scaffolds, eleven of which are novel and exhibit higher binding affinity then already known ones, according to our in silico studies. The results of this study open new directions for structure-based drug design of tTG inhibitors, offering the complete protein model and suggesting a wide range of new compounds for further experimental validation.
Longitudinal associations between intergroup contact and intergroup trust among adolescents in ethnic regions of China
Authors: Yuan Xiaojiao , Lei Tianyang , Su Ying , Li Xiaoxia , Zhu Lan
Published: July 2024

Intergroup trust is a crucial psychological foundation for promoting ethnic unity and maintaining social stability. This study explored the dynamic relationship between intergroup contact and trust among adolescents in ethnic regions of China and sought to uncover the mechanisms behind this relationship. Through a two-wave longitudinal survey of 679 adolescents, employing the Intergroup Contact Experience Scale, the Intergroup Trust Scale, and the UCLA Loneliness Scale, the study yielded several findings: (1) Over the year, a significant increase in intergroup contact was observed among the adolescents. Notably, junior high students demonstrated a marked rise in intergroup trust, whereas no significant change was discernible in high school students. (2) Cross-lagged analysis indicated that early intergroup contact significantly predicted subsequent intergroup trust and loneliness. Initial loneliness also forecasted future intergroup trust, yet early intergroup trust did not predict later intergroup contact or loneliness. (3) Loneliness served as a partial mediator in the longitudinal link between intergroup contact and trust among these adolescents. These findings reinforce the premise that in China’s ethnic regions, intergroup contact is a precursor to intergroup trust, both directly enhancing trust among adolescents and indirectly by reducing loneliness.
Investigating the stability of aromatic carboxylic acids in hydrated magnesium sulfate under UV irradiation to assist detection of organics on Mars
Authors: Alberini Andrew , Fornaro Teresa , García-Florentino Cristina , Biczysko Malgorzata , Poblacion Iratxe , Aramendia Julene , Madariaga Juan Manuel , Poggiali Giovanni , Vicente-Retortillo Álvaro , Benison Kathleen C. , Siljeström Sandra , Biancalani Sole , Lorenz Christian , Cloutis Edward A. , Applin Dan M. , Gómez Felipe , Steele Andrew , Wiens Roger C. , Hand Kevin P. , Brucato John R.
Published: July 2024

The Scanning Habitable Environments with Raman and Luminescence for Organics and Chemicals (SHERLOC) instrument onboard the Mars 2020 Perseverance rover detected so far some of the most intense fluorescence signals in association with sulfates analyzing abraded patches of rocks at Jezero crater, Mars. To assess the plausibility of an organic origin of these signals, it is key to understand if organics can survive exposure to ambient Martian UV after exposure by the Perseverance abrasion tool and prior to analysis by SHERLOC. In this work, we investigated the stability of organo-sulfate assemblages under Martian-like UV irradiation and we observed that the spectroscopic features of phthalic and mellitic acid embedded into hydrated magnesium sulfate do not change for UV exposures corresponding to at least 48 Martian sols and, thus, should still be detectable in fluorescence when the SHERLOC analysis takes place, thanks to the photoprotective properties of magnesium sulfate. In addition, different photoproduct bands diagnostic of the parent carboxylic acid molecules could be observed. The photoprotective behavior of hydrated magnesium sulfate corroborates the hypothesis that sulfates might have played a key role in the preservation of organics on Mars, and that the fluorescence signals detected by SHERLOC in association with sulfates could potentially arise from organic compounds.
Transcriptome sequencing of garlic reveals key genes related to the heat stress response
Authors: Yang Qing-Qing , Yang Feng , Liu Can-Yu , Zhao Yong-Qiang , Li Meng-Yao , Lu Xin-Juan , Ge Jie , Zhang Bi-Wei , Li Meng-Qian , Yang Yan , Fan Ji-De
Published: July 2024

With global warming, heat stress has become an important factor that seriously affects crop yield and quality. Therefore, understanding plant responses to heat stress is important for agricultural practice, but the molecular mechanism of high-temperature tolerance in garlic remains unclear. In this study, ‘Xusuan No. 6’ was used as the experimental material. After heat stress for 0 (CK), 2 and 24 h, transcriptome sequencing was used to screen metabolic pathways and differentially expressed genes (DEGs) closely related to heat stress and was further verified by quantitative real-time polymerase chain reaction (qRT-PCR). A total of 86,110 unigenes obtained from the raw transcriptome sequencing data were spliced. After 2 h of heat treatment, the expression levels of 8898 genes increased, and 3829 genes were decreased in leaves. After 24 h, the expression levels of 7167 genes were upregulated, and 3176 genes were downregulated. Gene Ontology enrichment analysis showed that DEGs were mainly enriched in seven categories: cellular processes, metabolic processes, binging, catalytic activity, cellular anatomical entity and protein-containing complex response to stimulus. Kyoto Encyclopedia of Genes and Genomes pathway enrichment showed that DEGs are involved in protein processing in the endoplasmic reticulum, plant hormone signal transduction, phenylpropanoid biosynthesis, and photosynthetic antenna proteins. Six genes were selected and further verified by qRT-PCR. In this study, the full-length transcriptome of garlic was constructed, and the regulatory genes related to the heat resistance of garlic were studied. Taken together, these findings can provide a theoretical basis for the cloning of heat resistance genes in garlic and for the analysis of heat resistance mechanisms.
Automatic wild bird repellent system that is based on deep-learning-based wild bird detection and integrated with a laser rotation mechanism
Authors: Chen Yu-Chieh , Chu Jing-Fang , Hsieh Kuang-Wen , Lin Tzung-Han , Chang Pei-Zen , Tsai Yao-Chuan
Published: July 2024

Wild bird repulsion is critical in agriculture because it helps avoid agricultural food losses and mitigates the risk of avian influenza. Wild birds transmit avian influenza in poultry farms and thus cause large economic losses. In this study, we developed an automatic wild bird repellent system that is based on deep-learning-based wild bird detection and integrated with a laser rotation mechanism. When a wild bird appears at a farm, the proposed system detects the bird’s position in an image captured by its detection unit and then uses a laser beam to repel the bird. The wild bird detection model of the proposed system was optimized for detecting small pixel targets, and trained through a deep learning method by using wild bird images captured at different farms. Various wild bird repulsion experiments were conducted using the proposed system at an outdoor duck farm in Yunlin, Taiwan. The statistical test results of our experimental data indicated that the proposed automatic wild bird repellent system effectively reduced the number of wild birds in the farm. The experimental results indicated that the developed system effectively repelled wild birds, with a high repulsion rate of 40.3% each day.
Selection of pre-trained weights for transfer learning in automated cytomegalovirus retinitis classification
Authors: Choopong Pitipol , Kusakunniran Worapan
Published: July 2024

Cytomegalovirus retinitis (CMVR) is a significant cause of vision loss. Regular screening is crucial but challenging in resource-limited settings. A convolutional neural network is a state-of-the-art deep learning technique to generate automatic diagnoses from retinal images. However, there are limited numbers of CMVR images to train the model properly. Transfer learning (TL) is a strategy to train a model with a scarce dataset. This study explores the efficacy of TL with different pre-trained weights for automated CMVR classification using retinal images. We utilised a dataset of 955 retinal images (524 CMVR and 431 normal) from Siriraj Hospital, Mahidol University, collected between 2005 and 2015. Images were processed using Kowa VX-10i or VX-20 fundus cameras and augmented for training. We employed DenseNet121 as a backbone model, comparing the performance of TL with weights pre-trained on ImageNet, APTOS2019, and CheXNet datasets. The models were evaluated based on accuracy, loss, and other performance metrics, with the depth of fine-tuning varied across different pre-trained weights. The study found that TL significantly enhances model performance in CMVR classification. The best results were achieved with weights sequentially transferred from ImageNet to APTOS2019 dataset before application to our CMVR dataset. This approach yielded the highest mean accuracy (0.99) and lowest mean loss (0.04), outperforming other methods. The class activation heatmaps provided insights into the model's decision-making process. The model with APTOS2019 pre-trained weights offered the best explanation and highlighted the pathologic lesions resembling human interpretation. Our findings demonstrate the potential of sequential TL in improving the accuracy and efficiency of CMVR diagnosis, particularly in settings with limited data availability. They highlight the importance of domain-specific pre-training in medical image classification. This approach streamlines the diagnostic process and paves the way for broader applications in automated medical image analysis, offering a scalable solution for early disease detection.
Efficient generation of a stable CHO-K1 cell line overexpressing the human water channel aquaporin-5 as tool to generate therapeutic antibodies
Authors: Jagemann Lucas , Sciucca Nia , Bombardieri Michele , Corsiero Elisa
Published: July 2024

Aquaporins (AQPs) are a family of water permeable channels expressed on the plasma membrane with AQP5 being the major channel expressed in several human tissues including salivary and lacrimal glands. Anti-AQP5 autoantibodies have been observed in patients with Sjögren’s syndrome who are characterised by dryness of both salivary and lacrimal glands, and they have been implicated in the underlying mechanisms of glandular dysfunction. AQP5 is formed by six transmembrane helices linked with three extracellular and two intracellular loops. Develop antibodies against membrane protein extracellular loops can be a challenge due to the difficulty in maintaining these proteins as recombinant in their native form. Therefore, in this work we aimed to generate an efficient stable-transfected cell line overexpressing human AQP5 (CHO-K1/AQP5) to perform primarily cell-based phage display biopanning experiments to develop new potential recombinant antibodies targeting AQP5. We also showed that the new CHO-K1/AQP5 cell line can be used to study molecular mechanisms of AQP5 sub-cellular trafficking making these cells a useful tool for functional studies.
Composite branched and linear F-actin maximize myosin-induced membrane shape changes in a biomimetic cell model
Authors: Sakamoto Ryota , Murrell Michael P.
Published: July 2024

The architecture of the actin cortex determines the generation and transmission of stresses, during key events from cell division to migration. However, its impact on myosin-induced cell shape changes remains unclear. Here, we reconstitute a minimal model of the actomyosin cortex with branched or linear F-actin architecture within giant unilamellar vesicles (GUVs, liposomes). Upon light activation of myosin, neither the branched nor linear F-actin architecture alone induces significant liposome shape changes. The branched F-actin network forms an integrated, membrane-bound “no-slip boundary” -like cortex that attenuates actomyosin contractility. By contrast, the linear F-actin network forms an unintegrated “slip boundary“ -like cortex, where actin asters form without inducing membrane deformations. Notably, liposomes undergo significant deformations at an optimized balance of branched and linear F-actin networks. Our findings highlight the pivotal roles of branched F-actin in force transmission and linear F-actin in force generation to yield membrane shape changes.
Reducing chemical inputs in agriculture requires a system change
Authors: Brunelle Thierry , Chakir Raja , Carpentier Alain , Dorin Bruno , Goll Daniel , Guilpart Nicolas , Maggi Federico , Makowski David , Nesme Thomas , Roosen Jutta , Tang Fiona H. M.
Published: July 2024

Many countries have implemented policies to reduce the use of chemical inputs in agriculture. However, these policies face many obstacles that limit their effectiveness. The purpose of this paper is to review the main challenges associated with reducing chemical inputs in agriculture and to propose potential solutions. Our analysis, based on a literature review linking agronomy and economics, shows that several agronomic options have proven effective in reducing chemical inputs or mitigating their negative impacts. We argue that the organization of the agri-food system itself is a major barrier to their implementation. Involving all stakeholders, from the chemical input industry to consumers, and designing appropriate policy frameworks are key to address this issue. We recommend combining different policy instruments, such as standards, taxes and subsidies, in a simplified and coherent way to increase effectiveness and ensure better coordination in the adoption of sustainable practices.
Achieving multi-modal brain disease diagnosis performance using only single-modal images through generative AI
Authors: Sun Kaicong , Zhang Yuanwang , Liu Jiameng , Yu Ling , Zhou Yan , Xie Fang , Guo Qihao , Zhang Han , Wang Qian , Shen Dinggang
Published: July 2024

Brain disease diagnosis using multiple imaging modalities has shown superior performance compared to using single modality, yet multi-modal data is not easily available in clinical routine due to cost or radiation risk. Here we propose a synthesis-empowered uncertainty-aware classification framework for brain disease diagnosis. To synthesize disease-relevant features effectively, a two-stage framework is proposed including multi-modal feature representation learning and representation transfer based on hierarchical similarity matching. Besides, the synthesized and acquired modality features are integrated based on evidential learning, which provides diagnosis decision and also diagnosis uncertainty. Our framework is extensively evaluated on five datasets containing 3758 subjects for three brain diseases including Alzheimer’s disease (AD), subcortical vascular mild cognitive impairment (MCI), and O[6]-methylguanine-DNA methyltransferase promoter methylation status for glioblastoma, achieving 0.950 and 0.806 in area under the ROC curve on ADNI dataset for discriminating AD patients from normal controls and progressive MCI from static MCI, respectively. Our framework not only achieves quasi-multimodal performance although using single-modal input, but also provides reliable diagnosis uncertainty.
Narrative review of recent developments and the future of penicillin allergy de-labelling by non-allergists
Authors: Powell Neil , Blank Michael , Luintel Akish , Elkhalifa Shuayb , Bhogal Rashmeet , Wilcock Michael , Wakefield Michael , Sandoe Jonathan
Published: July 2024

This article outlines recent developments in non-allergist delivered penicillin allergy de-labelling (PADL), discusses remaining controversies and uncertainties and explores the future for non-allergist delivered PADL. Recent developments include national guidelines for non-allergist delivered PADL and validation of penicillin allergy risk assessment tools. Controversies remain on which penicillin allergy features are low risk of genuine allergy. In the future genetic or immunological tests may facilitate PADL.
Portable X-ray fluorescence spectrometry: a cost-effective method for analysing trace metals in deposited dust
Authors: Ibañez-Del Rivero Carlos , Wheeler Cassandra A. , Fry Kara L. , Taylor Mark Patrick
Published: July 2024

pXRF dust wipe analysis provides semi-quantitative trace metal data. ∼30% of wipes need ICP-MS analysis to develop pXRF correction formulas. Data correction improved pXRF/ICP-MS recovery to 92–110%. pXRF enhances decision-making and decreases costs.
Versatile, flexible rice starch–graphene oxide bio-nanocomposites
Authors: Bhadane Prathmesh , Mishra Abhijit
Published: July 2024

In light of the pressing global issues of plastic and water pollution, this study seeks a singular solution by exploring the remarkable potential of graphene oxide (GO) as a nanomaterial in rice starch-GO bio-nano composites.
The particle sizes of milled wheat fractions affect the in vitro starch digestibility and quality parameters of wire-cut cookies made thereof
Authors: Mulargia Leonardo I. , Lemmens Elien , Gebruers Kurt , D′udekem D′acoz Pierre , Wouters Arno G. B. , Delcour Jan A.
Published: July 2024

The particle size of milled soft wheat used in cookie making affects the in vitro digestion of the cell wall encapsulated starch material.
Selenium supplementation via modulation of selenoproteins ameliorates binge drinking-induced oxidative, energetic, metabolic, and endocrine imbalance in adolescent rats’ skeletal muscle
Authors: Romero-Herrera Inés , Nogales Fátima , Gallego-López María del Carmen , Díaz-Castro Javier , Carreras Olimpia , Ojeda María Luisa
Published: July 2024

Selenium supplementation via selenoproteins inhibits binge drinking induced oxidative stress in the cytoplasm, mitochondria, and endoplasmic reticulum (ER), significantly promoting anabolism and skeletal muscle growth in adolescent rats.
Investigation into the adhesion properties of PFAS on model surfaces
Authors: Welchert Jack , Dunmyer McKenna , Carroll Lynn , Martinez Irbis , Lane Trisha J. , Bellido-Aguilar Daniel A. , Savagatrup Suchol , Karanikola Vasiliki
Published: July 2024

PFAS adhesion measured on siloxane films increased in divalent cation solutions compared to deionized water and monovalent salt solutions.
Synthesis of a sulfonamide functionalized poly(styrene oxide) and illustration of a potential post-polymerization strategy
Authors: Wittig Marina , Pfändner Philipp , Rieger Bernhard
Published: July 2024

Herein, we demonstrate a design concept for the functionalization of styrene oxide with a sulfonamide protecting group, its respective ring-opening-polymerization, and a related post-polymerization modification.
Anionic polymerization of phenyl-substituted isoprene derivatives: polymerization behaviour and cyclization-enabled fluorescence
Authors: Rauschenbach Moritz , Stein Laura , Linden Gregor M. , Barent Ramona , Heinze Katja , Frey Holger
Published: July 2024

1-Phenyl isoprene (1PhI) and 4-phenyl isoprene (4PhI) are shown to be suitable for living anionic polymerisation, with Mn of up to 48.8 kg mol−1 (Đ ≤ 1.13). Reactivity ratios for copolymerisation with styrene and isoprene are also determined.
Unveiling the potential of photodynamic therapy with nanocarriers as a compelling therapeutic approach for skin cancer treatment: current explorations and insights
Authors: Mohanty Shambo , Desai Vaibhavi Meghraj , Jain Rupesh , Agrawal Mukta , Dubey Sunil Kumar , Singhvi Gautam
Published: July 2024

Exploring amalgamation of photodynamic therapy with advanced drug delivery systems as a treatment strategy for skin cancer.
Highly dispersed noble metal nanoparticle composites on biomass-derived carbon-based carriers: synthesis, characterization, and catalytic applications
Authors: Ji Ya-Xin , Li Wei , Wu Ya-Xi , Zhou Xue-Fei , Bao Lin , Zhang Wen-Yan
Published: July 2024

A new method was used to synthesize Ag/p-C nanocomposites modified working electrodes with excellent sensing performance; and Pd/p-C nanocomposites with excellent catalytic performance for 4-nitrophenol.
Boosting charge separation in organic photovoltaics: unveiling dipole moment variations in excited non-fullerene acceptor layers
Authors: Yamakata Akira , Kato Kosaku , Urakami Takumi , Tsujimura Sota , Murayama Kasumi , Higashi Masahiro , Sato Hirofumi , Kobori Yasuhiro , Umeyama Tomokazu , Imahori Hiroshi
Published: July 2024

Neat ITIC films are found to facilitate charge transfer, dissociation, and free carrier formation without the need for donor layers. This process, driven by V-type molecular stacking, significantly boosts organic photovoltaic efficiency.
Understanding the role of supported Rh atoms and clusters during hydroformylation and CO hydrogenation reactions with in situ/operando XAS and DRIFT spectroscopy
Authors: Sarma Bidyut Bikash , Neukum Dominik , Doronkin Dmitry E. , Lakshmi Nilayam Ajai Raj , Baumgarten Lorena , Krause Bärbel , Grunwaldt Jan-Dierk
Published: July 2024

Dynamic structural change of Rh single atom catalysts (SACs) is key during hydroformylation and CO hydrogenation reactions.
Elasto-compliance of harmonically stimulated soft micro-gaps during electro-magneto-kinetic flows
Authors: Bhaskaran Akshay Manoj , Agrawal Shubham , Sarkar Korak , Dhar Purbarun
Published: July 2024

We develop and solve an analytical model to understand the elasto-hydrodynamic force response of a deformable, soft substrate, under dynamic loading; during electro-magneto-hydrodynamics of the micro-gap electrolyte.
Effect of synthesis process on the Li-ion conductivity of LiTa2PO8 solid electrolyte materials for all-solid-state batteries
Authors: Takeda Hayami , Shibasaki Miki , Murakami Kento , Tanaka Miki , Makino Keisuke , Tanibata Naoto , Maeda Hirotaka , Nakayama Masanobu
Published: July 2024

Tailoring grain boundary resistivity in LiTa2PO8 for improved ionic conductivity, offering insights into enhancing the performance of oxide solid electrolytes for safer all-solid-state batteries.
Mitigation of Subsequent Ovariectomy Responses through Prior Exercise
Training in Rats
Authors: da Palma Renata Kelly , Angelis Kátia De , Shimojo Guilherme Lemos , Dutra Marina Rascio Henriques , dos Santos Camila Paixão , Bernardes Nathalia , Bolsoni-Lopes Andressa , Curi Rui , Gomes João Lucas , Oliveira Edilamar Menezes , Irigoyen Maria Claudia , Malfitano Christiane
Published: July 2024

It is well known that cardiometabolic dysfunction gradually increases after
menopause, and the sedentary lifestyle can aggravate this condition. Therefore,
we compared the effects of aerobic exercise training during the premenopausal
period and after ovariectomy (OVX) on metabolic, hemodynamic, and autonomic
parameters in an experimental rat model of menopause. The female rats were
divided into four groups: control (C), sedentary OVX (SO), trained OVX (TO), and
previously trained OVX (PTO). The PTO group was trained for 4 weeks prior to+8
weeks after OVX, and the TO group trained only after OVX on a motor treadmill.
Autonomic modulation was evaluated, white adipose tissue (WAT) was removed and
weighed, and lipolysis was assessed. The citrate synthase activity in the soleus
muscle was analyzed. The trained groups prevented the impairment of baroreceptor
reflex sensitivity in relation to SO; however, only PTO reduced the
low-frequency band of the pulse interval compared to SO. PTO reduced the weight
of WAT compared to the other groups; lipolysis in PTO was similar to that in C.
PTO preserved muscle metabolic injury in all types of fibers analyzed. In
conclusion, this study suggests that exercise training should be recommended in
a premenopausal model to prevent cardiometabolic and autonomic menopause-induced
deleterious effects.
Breaking the ice
Authors: Ikenson Ben
Published: July 2024

Atomic force microscopy opens window onto interface between ice and liquid
Quadrupole mode plasmon resonance enabled dual-band metamaterial for refractive index sensing application
Authors: Ankit  , Baitha Monu Nath , Kishor Kamal , Sinha Ravindra Kumar
Published: July 2024

In this paper, design and fabrication of a dual-band near-zero index metamaterial (MTM) structure using copper on an epoxy resin fiber (FR-4) dielectric substrate is reported for refractive index sensing applications. The primary objective is to achieve dual-band operation spanning a 1–15 GHz frequency range, with a specific focus on achieving a broad bandwidth in the C-band. The resonance of the MTM structure was ascribed to the coupling of plane electromagnetic waves with surface plasmon polaritons on the structure, resulting in a quadrupole plasmon resonance mode. Furthermore, transmission characteristics of the fabricated MTM structure were experimentally measured and found to align closely with the simulated results obtained through the finite element method in COMSOL Multiphysics. The designed MTM structure demonstrates negative and near-zero permittivity at resonance frequencies, enabling left-handed and near-zero index behavior in dual microwave frequency bands. Under room temperature conditions, the MTM sensor exhibited sensitivities of 1 GHz/RIU and 3 GHz/RIU at resonance frequencies of 2.7 and 7.3 GHz, respectively. Consequently, the MTM structure exhibits significant potential for diverse applications, serving as a valuable component in sensors, detectors, and optoelectronic devices operating in the GHz region.
Reflective anomalous beam splitter (RABS) metasurface for millimeter-wave (mm-Wave) frequency
Authors: Pandit Jibran Z. A. , Kalaagi Mohammed , Seetharamdoo Divitha , Maye Caroline
Published: July 2024

Metasurfaces have gained a considerable amount of interest in the past decade for their capabilities to manipulate electromagnetic (EM) waves in different manners. They have offered multiple functionalities in terms of wave control depending on the given application. In terms of wave control, particularly EM beam splitting, it can be challenging compared to the given literature review, to achieve a wide number of beam-splitting reflections and coverage for multiple incident angles simultaneously. In this paper, we focus on the design of a metasurface based on the methodology of high periodicity supercell design (5.76λ) and impedance modulation to achieve a various number of beam-splitting angles, while maintaining the same coverage at multiple incident angles for millimeter-wave (mm-Wave) frequencies. Following the generalized phase law of reflection alongside proper optimization of the surface impedance, the proposed reflective anomalous beam splitter (RABS) metasurface is designed to be polarization independent, and high reflection efficiency is achieved with a wave beam split into 11 different directions while operating for multiple incident angles simultaneously, making it a promising candidate to overcome challenges for various mm-Wave communication applications, especially in expanding 5G coverage in non-line of sight regions at a 28 GHz frequency band. The performance of the RABS metasurface is evaluated using both full-wave simulations and experimental measurements, which demonstrate its effectiveness in achieving 11 efficient reflective anomalous beams with a reflection efficiency of up to 96.65% and 97.36% in TE and TM modes at 28 GHz.
Low temperature coefficient of frequency AlN Lamb wave resonator using groove structure between interdigital transducers
Authors: Li Haiyang , Zhou Jie , Xu Qinwen , Liu Zesheng , Ren Yuqi , Liu Yan , Guo Shishang , Cai Yao , Sun Chengliang
Published: July 2024

The lithographically tunable and small size features of Lamb wave resonators (LWRs) take a bright future for their use in high frequency narrow band filters. Resonant frequency drift due to temperature variation has a large impact on the narrower passband and a temperature coefficient of frequency (TCF) closer to 0 can broaden the stable temperature range of the resonator. This paper proposes a method of etching grooves in the area of the piezoelectric layer not covered by the Interdigital transducer (IDT) electrodes to improve the temperature stability of the Lamb resonator. Through the finite element method and theoretical analysis, the phase velocity, group velocity, and TCF dispersion curve of different modes of the resonator with groove structure were determined. The reason for the change of TCF under different normalized thicknesses of AlN was explained through the conversion of the LWR from a contour mode resonator (CMR) to a Cross-Sectional Lamé Mode Resonator. Simulation and test have shown that etching grooves have the effect of reducing TCF by adjusting the electromechanical coupling coefficient. The test shows that 205 nm-depth grooves can lower the TCF of the S0 mode IDT-Open LWR from −13.3 to −5.1 ppm/°C and S1 mode from −36.8 to −9.0 ppm/°C, respectively. The TCF of S0 and S1 mode LWRs decreased by 61.7% and 75.5%, respectively, after 205 nm groove etching. The groove etching method greatly raises the temperature stability of the LWR, enabling Lamb wave filters to operate stably over a wider temperature range.
An RNA aptamer exploits exosite-dependent allostery to achieve specific inhibition of coagulation factor IXa
Authors: Kolyadko Vladimir N. , Layzer Juliana M. , Perry Kay , Sullenger Bruce A. , Krishnaswamy Sriram
Published: July 2024

Hemostasis relies on a reaction network of serine proteases and their cofactors to form a blood clot. Coagulation factor IXa (protease) plays an essential role in hemostasis as evident from the bleeding disease associated with its absence. RNA aptamers specifically targeting individual coagulation factors have potential as anticoagulants and as probes of the relationship between structure and function. Here, we report X-ray structures of human factor IXa without a ligand bound to the active site either in the apo-form or in complex with an inhibitory aptamer specific for factor IXa. The aptamer binds to an exosite in the catalytic domain and allosterically distorts the active site. Our studies reveal a conformational ensemble of IXa states, wherein large movements of Trp
215
near the active site drive functional transitions between the closed (aptamer-bound), latent (apo), and open (substrate-bound) states. The latent state of the apo-enzyme may bear on the uniquely poor catalytic activity of IXa compared to other coagulation proteases. The exosite, to which the aptamer binds, has been implicated in binding VIIIa and heparin, both of which regulate IXa function. Our findings reveal the importance of exosite-driven allosteric modulation of IXa function and new strategies to rebalance hemostasis for therapeutic gain.
Engineering bionanoreactor in bacteria for efficient hydrogen production
Authors: Tu Weiming , Thompson Ian P. , Huang Wei E.
Published: July 2024

Hydrogen production through water splitting is a vital strategy for renewable and sustainable clean energy. In this study, we developed an approach integrating nanomaterial engineering and synthetic biology to establish a bionanoreactor system for efficient hydrogen production. The periplasmic space (20 to 30 nm) of an electroactive bacterium,
Shewanella oneidensis
MR-1, was engineered to serve as a bionanoreactor to enhance the interaction between electrons and protons, catalyzed by hydrogenases for hydrogen generation. To optimize electron transfer, we used the microbially reduced graphene oxide (rGO) to coat the electrode, which improved the electron transfer from the electrode to the cells. Native MtrCAB protein complex on
S. oneidensis
and self-assembled iron sulfide (FeS) nanoparticles acted in tandem to facilitate electron transfer from an electrode to the periplasm. To enhance proton transport,
S. oneidensis
MR-1 was engineered to express
Gloeobacter
rhodopsin (GR) and the light-harvesting antenna canthaxanthin. This led to efficient proton pumping when exposed to light, resulting in a 35.6% increase in the rate of hydrogen production. The overexpression of native [FeFe]-hydrogenase further improved the hydrogen production rate by 56.8%. The bionanoreactor engineered in
S. oneidensis
MR-1 achieved a hydrogen yield of 80.4 μmol/mg protein/day with a Faraday efficiency of 80% at a potential of −0.75 V. This periplasmic bionanoreactor combines the strengths of both nanomaterial and biological components, providing an efficient approach for microbial electrosynthesis.
Stress balls for the brain: How beading protects axons from mechanical damage
Authors: Leterrier Christophe
Published: July 2024

The slender shape of axons makes them uniquely susceptible to mechanical stress. In this issue, Pan, Hu et al. (https://doi.org/10.1083/jcb.202206046) use a microfluidic axon-on-chip device to reveal how actomyosin protects axons from mild mechanical stress, by transiently adopting a beaded shape that helps limit the spread of damaging calcium waves.
A deep learning-based method for the detection and segmentation of breast masses in ultrasound images
Authors: Li Wanqing , Ye Xianjun , Chen Xuemin , Jiang Xianxian , Yang Yidong
Published: July 2024

Objective. Automated detection and segmentation of breast masses in ultrasound images are critical for breast cancer diagnosis, but remain challenging due to limited image quality and complex breast tissues. This study aims to develop a deep learning-based method that enables accurate breast mass detection and segmentation in ultrasound images. Approach. A novel convolutional neural network-based framework that combines the You Only Look Once (YOLO) v5 network and the Global-Local (GOLO) strategy was developed. First, YOLOv5 was applied to locate the mass regions of interest (ROIs). Second, a Global Local-Connected Multi-Scale Selection (GOLO-CMSS) network was developed to segment the masses. The GOLO-CMSS operated on both the entire images globally and mass ROIs locally, and then integrated the two branches for a final segmentation output. Particularly, in global branch, CMSS applied Multi-Scale Selection (MSS) modules to automatically adjust the receptive fields, and Multi-Input (MLI) modules to enable fusion of shallow and deep features at different resolutions. The USTC dataset containing 28 477 breast ultrasound images was collected for training and test. The proposed method was also tested on three public datasets, UDIAT, BUSI and TUH. The segmentation performance of GOLO-CMSS was compared with other networks and three experienced radiologists. Main results. YOLOv5 outperformed other detection models with average precisions of 99.41%, 95.15%, 93.69% and 96.42% on the USTC, UDIAT, BUSI and TUH datasets, respectively. The proposed GOLO-CMSS showed superior segmentation performance over other state-of-the-art networks, with Dice similarity coefficients (DSCs) of 93.19%, 88.56%, 87.58% and 90.37% on the USTC, UDIAT, BUSI and TUH datasets, respectively. The mean DSC between GOLO-CMSS and each radiologist was significantly better than that between radiologists (p < 0.001). Significance. Our proposed method can accurately detect and segment breast masses with a decent performance comparable to radiologists, highlighting its great potential for clinical implementation in breast ultrasound examination.
Particle tracking, recognition and LET evaluation of out-of-field proton therapy delivered to a phantom with implants
Authors: Bălan Cristina , Granja Carlos , Mytsin Gennady , Shvidky Sergey , Molokanov Alexander , Marek Lukas , Chiș Vasile , Oancea Cristina
Published: July 2024

Objective. This study aims to assess the composition of scattered particles generated in proton therapy for tumors situated proximal to some titanium (Ti) dental implants. The investigation involves decomposing the mixed field and recording Linear Energy Transfer (LET) spectra to quantify the influence of metallic dental inserts located behind the tumor. Approach. A therapeutic conformal proton beam was used to deliver the treatment plan to an anthropomorphic head phantom with two types of implants inserted in the target volume (made of Ti and plastic, respectively). The scattered radiation resulted during the irradiation was detected by a hybrid semiconductor pixel detector MiniPIX Timepix3 that was placed distal to the Spread-out Bragg peak. Visualization and field decomposition of stray radiation were generated using algorithms trained in particle recognition based on artificial intelligence neural networks (AI NN). Spectral sensitive aspects of the scattered radiation were collected using two angular positions of the detector relative to the beam direction: 0° and 60°. Results. Using AI NN, 3 classes of particles were identified: protons, electrons & photons, and ions & fast neutrons. Placing a Ti implant in the beam’s path resulted in predominantly electrons and photons, contributing 52.2% of the total number of detected particles, whereas for plastic implants, the contribution was 65.4%. Scattered protons comprised 45.5% and 31.9% with and without metal inserts, respectively. The LET spectra were derived for each group of particles identified, with values ranging from 0.01 to 7.5 keV μm−1 for Ti implants/plastic implants. The low-LET component was primarily composed of electrons and photons, while the high-LET component corresponded to protons and ions. Significance. This method, complemented by directional maps, holds the potential for evaluating and validating treatment plans involving stray radiation near organs at risk, offering precise discrimination of the mixed field, and enhancing in this way the LET calculation.
Asymmetric nanofracture in WS2 for its local toughness anisotropy
Authors: Yang Xing , Zhang Bin
Published: July 2024

Fracture in crystal lattices usually occurs with discrete atomic bond breakages around the crack tip. WS2 involves three-layer atomic structures, where the atomic stress near the crack front exhibits thickness dependence and significantly relies on the local distortion of lattice geometry. We show that the T-stress obtained by over-deterministic methods, and the continuum circumferential stress, are limited in predicting the nanocrack kinking of WS2 strips by molecular dynamics simulations. As the far-field displacement loads, the T-stress initially increases in negative, followed by a slight jump at the initiation of kinking, and the continuum circumferential stress cannot accurately capture the variation of atomic stresses at the crack tip. This can be attributed to the local anisotropy in atomic lattices, and the crack preferentially extends in the zigzag direction of the local maximum energy release rate. Our work might provide insights into the fabrication and assembly of WS2 nanodevices.
Theoretical predictions of nuclear binding energy for the observed nuclei: the influence of coefficients and terms in a semi-empirical mass formula
Authors: Saad A F , Elghobary Zeyad I
Published: July 2024

The aim of this study is to calculate the nuclear binding energy for the 2457 nuclei which experimentally observed, as tabulated in the atomic mass evaluation AME2020, by using the semi-empirical mass formula based on the renowned liquid drop model (LDM). The Bethe-Weizsäcker (BW) mass formula-four terms (BWMF-4T) is extended to incorporate an additional six terms, resulting in a formula of ten terms. Our findings demonstrate commendable accuracy and reliability, as substantiated by the acceptable level of uncertainty observed when compared them to experimental data and existing models. The influence of coefficients and terms in the semi-empirical mass formula has been determined. All possible combinations of the terms are fitted in turn to the measured nuclear masses, and the outcomes are analyzed in order to reveal correlations and mutual influences between the various terms in all observed mass regions of the periodic table. The fitted surface energy and symmetry coefficients in the semi-empirical mass formula-ten terms (SEMF-10T) are remaining 26.4 and 33.3 MeV respectively. In contrast, coefficients fitted in the classic BW formula with and without one or two additional terms are around 17 and 23 MeV, respectively. The interplay between different terms in this mass formula is found to be significant and interesting.
Generalized Brans-Dicke cosmology, noether symmetries and quantization
Authors: Ribas M O , Bonato H O , Constantinidis C P , Devecchi F P
Published: July 2024

A generalized Brans-Dicke theory of gravitation is applied to investigate a cosmological model for a primordial universe that includes a self-interacting bosonic field as source. This model permits, initially, to consider an arbitrary ω function, not usual for BD formulations. The imposition of Noether symmetries conditions identifies a reduced space for the ω function. This model is shown to present a variety of behaviors consistent with a primordial era, depending on the parameters chosen. We find that the bosonic field is capable of promoting a transition from an initially accelerated to a decelerated regime. The self-interaction potential is also restricted by the Noether conditions, and can be interpreted as a vacuum energy contribution. The model also permits a quantization process, going through a hamiltonian formulation and recognizing the presence of cyclic variables. The Bohm approach shows as result a consistent model with a smooth classical limit as the Universe leaves the Planck era.
Data-driven simulation-assisted-Physics learned AI (DPAI) for heat diffusion in large grain polycrystalline materials
Authors: Bhemani Nishi , Gantala Thulsiram , Balasubramaniam Krishnan
Published: July 2024

In this paper, we propose Data-driven simulation-assisted Physics-learned Artificial Intelligence (DPAI), a deep-learning algorithm to simulate heat diffusion in large-grain polycrystalline materials. The DPAI model captures the spatio-temporal representation of heat diffusion in the material from input sequences from the training dataset. The training dataset consists of various temperature plots of polycrystalline materials taken from Finite Element (FE) simulations having varying numbers of grains oriented in random directions with a single-point heat source at the center. The arbitrary plane of the 3D microstructure of these materials is represented using 2D Voronoi tessellations. Voronoi configurations are used to model the geometry of the 2D Computer-Aided Design (CAD) model. Each cell of the Voronoi tessellation represents one grain of the microstructure. This CAD model is used as an input to the FE for solving heat diffusion equations. To model the near-realistic material anisotropy and accurately measure temperature differences at cell boundaries, a smaller mesh size is required in FE modeling, which takes considerable solver time. Therefore, the proposed Deep learning model significantly reduces the computational time while maintaining accuracy as compared to conventional numerical techniques. After training, the effectiveness of the trained DPAI model is examined by modeling larger domain problems involving a greater number of grains and varying material properties. The simulation result is qualitatively compared with the experiment. A scaled-up version of the microstructure is represented using Unidirectional Carbon Fiber laminate. The laminate is heated with a point heat source and the temperature plots are captured using Infrared Camera.
Wavelet-modified segmented phase-only filter for in-plane rotated object recognition
Authors: Kumar Rahul , Nishchal Naveen K , Alfalou Ayman
Published: July 2024

In this paper, we propose and implement a wavelet-modified segmented phase-only filter for in-plane rotated object recognition. The wavelet filter is combined with the segmented phase-only filter to significantly enhance the correlation capability of the optical processor. To verify the consistency of the results, we have calculated the performance measure parameters such as peak-to-correlation energy, peak-to-sidelobe ratio, discrimination ratio and signal-to-noise ratio and compared the performance with a conventional segmented phase-only filter. For carrying out the study, we have developed a dataset of different distorted objects such as alphabets, digits, vehicles, fighter planes. Through a series of experiments and case studies, we are able to prove that the proposed filter reduces the false alarm rate while increasing recognition capability.