bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Fuzzy black hole models in

f
(
G
)

Gravity
Authors: Yousaf M , Asad H , Almutairi Bander , Hasan S , Khan A S
Published: October 2024

In this manuscript, we explore the concept of dark matter black holes, inspired by the Einasto density profile in the background of

f
(
G
)

gravity, where

G

is a Gauss-Bonnet invariant. This work extends the scope beyond the noncommutative tiny black hole structure which incorporates dark matter as a constituent forming the black hole. Our investigation demonstrates the feasibility of constructing black hole solutions for various Einasto index values,

f
(
G
)

gravity parameters, and parameters of mass function adopting anisotropic fluid configuration to characterize the matter sector. Specifically, by adopting an equation of state in which the radial pressure equals the negative of the energy density, we derive black hole solutions exhibiting a horizon structure with the central singularity replaced by a regular de Sitter core akin to the Reissner-Nordström black holes. Furthermore, we explore an alternative scenario where the equation of state is nonlocal, resulting in the construction of self-gravitating fuzzy dark matter droplets together with the dark source

f
(
G
)

corrections.
Application of fractional modified taylor wavelets in the dynamical analysis of fractional electrical circuits under generalized caputo fractional derivative
Authors: Rayal Ashish , Anand Monika , Srivastava V K
Published: October 2024

This study examines the application of fractional calculus in the analysis and modeling of electrical circuits of fractional order, highlighting its potential to explain the behaviour of complex electrical circuits accurately. In the domain of electrical circuits, fractional differential equations are employed in the analysis and simulation of systems that consist of resistors, capacitors and inductors. In the present paper, a novel approach utilizing fractional order modified Taylor wavelets is implemented to solve the fractional model of RL, LC, RC and RLC electrical circuits under generalized Caputo fractional derivative which offers precise and flexible modeling of non-locality and hereditary characteristics in complex systems. Furthermore, an additional parameter σ (time scale parameter) is incorporated in fractional circuit dynamics to maintain the physical dimensionality. The considered wavelets with the collocation technique offer an efficient solution by converting the fractional model of electrical circuits into a set of algebraic equations which are further solved by using the Newton iteration method. Moreover, this study discusses the significance of Ulam-Hyers stability, emphasizing its role in ensuring stable and reliable circuit performance. The impact of fractional order on the dynamics of the electric circuit model is presented by tables and graphs. The approximate solutions obtained by the proposed method are well comparable with exact solutions and some other existing wavelet-based techniques. The residual errors are also evaluated under various model parameters for fractional orders. Furthermore, the graphs illustrate that the error progressively decreases as the number of wavelets basis increases.
The impact of the Caputo fractional difference operator on the dynamical behavior of a discrete-time SIR model for influenza A virus
Authors: Nabil Haneche , Tayeb Hamaizia
Published: October 2024

Since there are few studies that deal with the fractional-order discrete-time epidemic models, this paper presents a new fractional-order discrete-time SIR epidemic model that is constructed based on the Caputo fractional difference operator. The effect of the fractional orders on the global dynamics of the SIR model is analyzed. In particular, the existence and stability of equilibrium points of the model are presented. Furthermore, we investigate the qualitative dynamical properties of the SIR model for both commensurate and incommensurate fractional orders using powerful nonlinear tools such as phase attractors, bifurcation diagrams, maximum Lyapunov exponent, chaos diagrams, and 0-1 test. In addition, the complexity of the discrete model is measured via the spectral entropy complexity algorithm. Further, an active controller is designed to stabilize the chaotic dynamics of the fractional-order SIR model. Finally, the suggested model is fitted with real data to show the accuracy of the current stability study. Our goal was achieved by confirming that the proposed SIR model can display a variety of epidiomologically observed states, including stable, periodic, and chaotic behaviors. The findings suggest that any change in parameter values or fractional orders could lead to unpredictable behavior. As a result, there is a need for additional research on this topic.
Comparing sampling techniques to chart parameter space of 21 cm global signal with Artificial Neural Networks
Authors: Tripathi Anshuman , Kaur Gursharanjit , Datta Abhirup , Majumdar Suman
Published: October 2024

Understanding the first billion years of the universe requires studying two critical
epochs: the Epoch of Reionization (EoR) and Cosmic Dawn (CD). However, due to limited data, the
properties of the Intergalactic Medium (IGM) during these periods remain poorly understood,
leading to a vast parameter space for the global 21cm signal. Training an Artificial Neural
Network (ANN) with a narrowly defined parameter space can result in biased inferences. To mitigate
this, the training dataset must be uniformly drawn from the entire parameter space to cover all
possible signal realizations. However, drawing all possible realizations is computationally
challenging, necessitating the sampling of a representative subset of this space. This study aims
to identify optimal sampling techniques for the extensive dimensionality and volume of the 21cm
signal parameter space. The optimally sampled training set will be used to train the ANN to infer
from the global signal experiment. We investigate three sampling techniques: random, Latin
hypercube (stratified), and Hammersley sequence (quasi-Monte Carlo) sampling, and compare their
outcomes. Our findings reveal that sufficient samples must be drawn for robust and accurate ANN
model training, regardless of the sampling technique employed. The required sample size depends
primarily on two factors: the complexity of the data and the number of free parameters. More free
parameters necessitate drawing more realizations. Among the sampling techniques utilized, we find
that ANN models trained with Hammersley Sequence sampling demonstrate greater robustness compared
to those trained with Latin hypercube and Random sampling.
Spectrum of global string networks and the axion dark matter mass
Authors: Saikawa Ken'ichi , Redondo Javier , Vaquero Alejandro , Kaltschmidt Mathieu
Published: October 2024

Cold dark matter axions produced in the post-inflationary Peccei-Quinn symmetry breaking
scenario serve as clear targets for their experimental detection, since it is in principle
possible to give a sharp prediction for their mass once we understand precisely how they are
produced from the decay of global cosmic strings in the early Universe. In this paper, we perform
a dedicated analysis of the spectrum of axions radiated from strings based on large scale
numerical simulations of the cosmological evolution of the Peccei-Quinn field on a static lattice.
Making full use of the massively parallel code and computing resources, we executed the
simulations with up to 112643 lattice sites, which allows us to improve our understanding of
the dependence on the parameter controlling the string tension and thus give a more accurate
extrapolation of the numerical results. We found that there are several systematic effects that
have been overlooked in previous works, such as the dependence on the initial conditions,
contaminations due to oscillations in the spectrum, and discretisation effects, some of which
could explain the discrepancy in the literature. We confirmed the trend that the spectral index
of the axion emission spectrum increases with the string tension, but did not find a clear
evidence of whether it continues to increase or saturates to a constant at larger values of the
string tension due to the severe discretisation effects. Taking this uncertainty into account and
performing the extrapolation with a simple power law assumption on the spectrum, we find that the
dark matter mass is predicted in the range of m
a ≈ 95–450 μeV.
Curbing PBHs with PTAs
Authors: Iovino A.J. , Perna G. , Riotto A. , Veermäe H.
Published: October 2024

Sizeable primordial curvature perturbations needed to seed a population of primordial black holes (PBHs) will be accompanied by a scalar-induced gravitational wave signal that can be detectable by pulsar timing arrays (PTA). We derive conservative bounds on the amplitude of the scalar power spectrum at the PTA frequencies and estimate the implied constraints on the PBH abundance. We show that only a small fraction of dark matter can consist of stellar mass PBHs when the abundance is calculated using threshold statistics. The strength and the shape of the constraint depend on the shape of the power spectrum and the nature of the non-Gaussianities. We find that constraints on the PBH abundance arise in the mass range 0.1-103
M
⊙, with the sub-solar mass range being constrained only for narrow curvature power spectra. These constraints are softened when positive non-Gaussianity is introduced and can be eliminated when f
NL ≳ 5.
On the other hand, if the PBH abundance is computed via the theory of peaks, the PTA constraints on PBHs are significantly relaxed, signalling once more the theoretical uncertainties in assessing the PBH abundance.
We further discuss how strong positive non-Gaussianites can allow for heavy PBHs to potentially seed supermassive BHs.
Investigating the Hubble tension and σ
8 discrepancy in f(Q) cosmology
Authors: Sakr Ziad , Schey Leonid
Published: October 2024

In this study, we incorporated a three-parameter family, of the metric incompatible modification of standard general relativity ω models into the Boltzmann code MGCLASS at both the background and perturbation levels, in order to conduct a Bayesian study employing probes that include the cosmic microwave background (CMB), baryon acoustic oscillations (BAO), weak lensing (WL), alone or its correlation with galaxy clustering (3×2pt) and growth measurements f
σ
8, for each submodel. Our analysis focused on the impact of the Hubble tension in H
0 and the discrepancy in σ
8 resulting from the inclusion of our model's parameters, namely M, α and β. We find that none of the sub models, considered alone or combined, were able of alleviating the Hubble tension with only reducing it to 3 σ in the least constraining, highest degree of freedom case while we found that the σ
8 discrepancy, already strongly mitigated on WL linear scales, especially when we let all our model's parameters as free, appears again when considering the more constraining 3×2pt probe. Among the parameters considered, we found that β, acting in scaling both the gravitational and the Hubble parameter, had the most impact in reducing the discrepancy, with data preferring far from ΛCDM alike values, before the combination with fσ
8 constrain it back to its general relativity values.
Possibility of synthesizing Z = 119 superheavy nuclei with Z > 20 projectiles*
Authors: Zhu 朱 Shi Hao 世豪 , Zhao 赵 Tian-Liang 天亮 , Bao 包 Xiao Jun 小军
Published: October 2024

We employ the dinuclear system (DNS) model combined with a statistical model to calculate the evaporation residue cross sections of the reaction systems

Ca +

Am,

Ca +

Cm, and

Ca +

Bk. The theoretical results successfully reproduce the experimental trends in the 3n and 4n evaporation channels of these reaction systems. To synthesize the new element

, we predict the evaporation residue cross sections for three reaction systems (

Cr +

Am,

V +

Cm, and

Ti +

Bk) to select the most promising projectile-target combinations. We also note that the maximum cross sections predicted by our model and other methods appear to be below the detection limits of current experimental facilities, given the projectile-target combinations feasible under current experimental conditions. Therefore, synthesizing superheavy nuclei with

will require improvements in beam intensity, detection techniques, and effective separation methods.
Reduced electrostatic turbulence in the quasi-isodynamic stellarator configuration CIEMAT-QI4
Authors: García-Regaña J.M. , Calvo I. , Sánchez E. , Thienpondt H. , Velasco J.L. , Capitán J.A.
Published: October 2024

CIEMAT-QI4 is a quasi-isodynamic stellarator configuration that simultaneously features very good fast-ion confinement in a broad range of β values, low neoclassical transport and bootstrap current, and ideal magnetohydrodynamic stability up to

β
=
5
%

. In this paper it is shown that CIEMAT-QI4 also exhibits reduced turbulent transport. This is demonstrated through nonlinear electrostatic simulations with the gyrokinetic code stella, including kinetic ions and electrons. The relation between reduced turbulent transport and the fact that CIEMAT-QI4 very approximately satisfies the so-called maximum-J property is discussed.
Global warming impacts of carbon dioxide, methane, and albedo in an island forest nature reserve
Authors: Wu Liangxu , Zhu Qingsong , Li Xianglan , Xu Minghai , Chen Wei , Cai Houcai , Yang Sheng , Chen Qiuxia , Zhao Zhixia , Liu Xing , Chen Jiquan
Published: October 2024

Forest ecosystems influence climate by sequestering carbon from the atmosphere and by altering the surface energy balance. However, the combined global warming impacts (GWIs), contribution from carbon dioxide (CO2) fluxes, methane (CH4) fluxes, and albedo changes (Δα) remain poorly understood. Here, we reported the combined GWIs of CO2, CH4, and albedo with eddy covariance (EC) measurements during 2020–2022 in a subtropical island forest located in the Nanji Islands National Marine Protected Area in Southern China. We suggested that the island forest acted as a significant carbon sink, with annual CO2 and CH4 fluxes of −548.6 ± 11.1 and −5.67 ± 1.1 g C m−2 yr−1, respectively, while the daily albedo varied within the range of 0.03–0.15. By converting the radiative forcing induced by CH4 and albedo change in the forest to CO2 equivalents, we analyzed the three contributors to the combined GWI. The annual averages GWI of CO2 uptake, CH4 uptake, and Δα were −2 011.6 ± 40.6, −211.3 ± 1.1, and 0.03 ± 4.5 g CO2-eq m−2 yr−1, respectively, with a mean combined GWI of −2 223 ± 40.8 g CO2-eq m−2 yr−1. During 2020–2022, the contributions of CO2 uptake, CH4 uptake, and Δα to the combined GWI were 89.7% to 91.4%, 9.4% to 9.6% and −1.0%–0.9%, respectively. Nanji Island forest had a strong positive effect on climate change mitigation, with CO2 and CH4 uptake greatly enhancing its cooling benefits. Using Pearson correlation and path analysis, we found photosynthetically active radiation, precipitation, soil water content were the primary factors controlling the GWI dynamics, mainly driving the changes in CO2 fluxes. This study provided novel insights into the establishment of the overall evaluation framework for ecosystem-scale GWIs of CO2 and CH4 fluxes, and albedo based on long-term EC measurements in an island forest.
Structural, electronic and optical properties of Halogen (F and Cl) atoms doped Graphdiyne
Authors: Saghir Neelam , Khenfouch Mohammed , Rampho G J
Published: October 2024

This paper reports the results of a density functional theory investigation of structural, electronic, and optical properties of halogen (fluorine and chlorine) atoms doped graphdiyne. Graphdiyne is doped with fluorine and chlorine with three different doping configurations each where one, two and three atoms of fluorine and chlorine were doped into Graphdiyne at benzene ring and acetylene linkages. The most stable doped structure was determined using the results of formation energy. Monolayers for fluorine and chlorine doped graphdiyne uniformly display metallic characteristics except where two atoms were incorporated shows semiconductor characteristics. PDOS shows that the energy band near the Fermi level is mainly contributed by the C 2p orbitals. Doped configurations shows higher peak intensities and good absorption in the UV, visible light region and IR region. These findings offer a fundamental basis for the understanding and manipulation of electrical and optical properties for doped graphdiyne with halogen atoms atoms and it is suitable for promoting the potential application of graphdiyne based electronic and opto-electronic device applications operating mainly in infrared and ultraviolet range.
A physically based constitutive model for 41CrS4 steel based on particle swarm optimization algorithm
Authors: Wei Xiaoxiao , Tan Fan , Yang Peipei , Pan Hongchen
Published: October 2024

Utilizing the Gleeble-3500 thermal simulation apparatus, a thermal compression assay was performed on 41CrS4 steel within the temperature range of 900 °C to 1200 °C, featuring a strain rate of 0.01 to 5 s−1, to derive its flow stress curve. The evaluation of the Arrhenius equation parameters was adeptly carried out by deploying a sophisticated particle swarm optimization algorithm. Through rigorous analysis, the correlation coefficient and the mean absolute deviation were calculated to quantify the alignment between the predictive accuracy of the developed model and the empirical data. The findings demonstrate the ability of the particle swarm optimization algorithm to significantly enhance the precision of the constitutive model. This augmented level of accuracy substantively increases the model’s utility and reliability for simulations of high-temperature material forming processes.
Research on the connection performance and micro-hydration mechanism of super-performance grouting material for prefabricated component connections
Authors: Jiang Haotian , Zhang Ruohao , Cao Jingjing , Lu Wei
Published: October 2024

The performance of grouting material determines the connection reliability of prefabricated components and the overall safety of the structure. In order to realize the rapid connection of prefabricated components, improve the construction efficiency and improve the quality of component connection. The research group has developed a grouting material with fast early strength improvement and high late strength. The formation mechanism was analyzed by scanning electron microscopy (abbreviation-SEM). The reliability of grouting material was verified by uniaxial tensile test of sleeve grouting connector. The results show that : Ca(OH)2 (abbreviation-CH), ettringite (abbreviation-Aft) and calcium silicate hydrate (abbreviation-C-S-H) are formed inside the grouting material, and the cementing system is dense inside. The skeleton formed by AFt inhibits the shrinkage of the system, which can provide support for the later compressive and flexural strength. Uniaxial tensile test results and theoretical analysis. The external reinforcement of the sleeve is broken, and the bonding performance between the grouting material and the reinforcement inside the sleeve is reliable. The internal bond stress is far less than the failure stress of the connector, which is about 50% of the failure stress.
Quasi-visualizable detection of deep sub-wavelength defects in patterned wafers by breaking the optical form birefringence
Authors: Liu Jiamin , Zhu Jinlong , Yu Zhe , Feng Xianrui , Li Zedi , Zhong Lei , Zhang Jinsong , Gu Honggang , Chen Xiuguo , Jiang Hao , Liu Shiyuan
Published: October 2024

In integrated circuit (IC) manufacturing, fast, nondestructive, and precise detection of defects in patterned wafers, realized by bright-field microscopy, is one of the critical factors for ensuring the final performance and yields of chips. With the critical dimensions of IC nanostructures continuing to shrink, directly imaging or classifying deep-subwavelength defects by bright-field microscopy is challenging due to the well-known diffraction barrier, the weak scattering effect, and the faint correlation between the scattering cross-section and the defect morphology. Herein, we propose an optical far-field inspection method based on the form-birefringence scattering imaging of the defective nanostructure, which can identify and classify various defects without requiring optical super-resolution. The technique is built upon the principle of breaking the optical form birefringence of the original periodic nanostructures by the defect perturbation under the anisotropic illumination modes, such as the orthogonally polarized plane waves, then combined with the high-order difference of far-field images. We validated the feasibility and effectiveness of the proposed method in detecting deep subwavelength defects through rigid vector imaging modeling and optical detection experiments of various defective nanostructures based on polarization microscopy. On this basis, an intelligent classification algorithm for typical patterned defects based on a dual-channel AlexNet neural network has been proposed, stabilizing the classification accuracy of λ/16-sized defects with highly similar features at more than 90%. The strong classification capability of the two-channel network on typical patterned defects can be attributed to the high-order difference image and its transverse gradient being used as the network’s input, which highlights the polarization modulation difference between different patterned defects more significantly than conventional bright-field microscopy results. This work will provide a new but easy-to-operate method for detecting and classifying deep-subwavelength defects in patterned wafers or photomasks, which thus endows current online inspection equipment with more missions in advanced IC manufacturing.
Towards atomic-scale smooth surface manufacturing of β-Ga2O3 via highly efficient atmospheric plasma etching
Authors: Zhang Yongjie , Xiao Yuxi , Liang Jianwen , Zhang Chun , Deng Hui
Published: October 2024

The highly efficient manufacturing of atomic-scale smooth β-Ga2O3 surface is fairly challenging because β-Ga2O3 is a typical difficult-to-machine material. In this study, a novel plasma dry etching method named plasma-based atom-selective etching (PASE) is proposed to achieve the highly efficient, atomic-scale, and damage-free polishing of β-Ga2O3. The plasma is excited through the inductive coupling principle and carbon tetrafluoride is utilized as the main reaction gas to etch β-Ga2O3. The core of PASE polishing of β-Ga2O3 is the remarkable lateral etching effect, which is ensured by both the intrinsic property of the surface and the extrinsic temperature condition. As revealed by density functional theory-based calculations, the intrinsic difference in the etching energy barrier of atoms at the step edge (2.36 eV) and in the terrace plane (4.37 eV) determines their difference in the etching rate, and their etching rate difference can be greatly enlarged by increasing the extrinsic temperature. The polishing of β-Ga2O3 based on the lateral etching effect is further verified in the etching experiments. The Sa roughness of β-Ga2O3 (001) substrate is reduced from 14.8 nm to 0.057 nm within 120 s, and the corresponding material removal rate reaches up to 20.96 μm·min−1. The polished β-Ga2O3 displays significantly improved crystalline quality and photoluminescence intensity, and the polishing effect of PASE is independent of the crystal face of β-Ga2O3. In addition, the competition between chemical etching and physical reconstruction, which is determined by temperature and greatly affects the surface state of β-Ga2O3, is deeply studied for the first time. These findings not only demonstrate the high-efficiency and high-quality polishing of β-Ga2O3 via atmospheric plasma etching but also hold significant implications for guiding future plasma-based surface manufacturing of β-Ga2O3.
Self-powered flexible sensors: from fundamental mechanisms toward diverse applications
Authors: Chen Jingjing , Zhang Jiangshan , Xu Nuo , Chen Mengmeng , Lee Ju-Hyuck , Wang Yu , Sun Qijun , Liu Baolin , Gao Zhixian
Published: October 2024

Today, energy is essential for every aspect of human life, including clothing, food, housing and transportation. However, traditional energy resources are insufficient to meet our modern needs. Self-powered sensing devices emerge as promising alternatives, offering sustained operation without relying on external power sources. Leveraging advancements in materials and manufacturing research, these devices can autonomously harvest energy from various sources. In this review, we focus on the current landscape of self-powered wearable sensors, providing a concise overview of energy harvesting technologies, conversion mechanisms, structural or material innovations, and energy storage platforms. Then, we present experimental advances in different energy sources, showing their underlying mechanisms, and the potential for energy acquisition. Furthermore, we discuss the applications of self-powered flexible sensors in diverse fields such as medicine, sports, and food. Despite significant progress in this field, widespread commercialization will necessitate enhanced sensor detection abilities, improved design factors for adaptable devices, and a balance between sensitivity and standardization.
Bioengineered skin-substitutes incorporating rete-ridges using a bioprinting process
Authors: Chae SooJung , Jo SeoYul , Yoon Dogeon , Lee Ji-Seon , Kim WonJin , Lee JaeYoon , Park Ji-Hye , Kim You-rin , Chun Wook , Kim GeunHyung
Published: October 2024

Bioprinting is a widely used technique for creating three-dimensional, complex, and heterogeneous artificial tissue constructs that are biologically and biophysically similar to natural tissues. The skin is composed of several layers including the epidermis, basement membrane (BM), and dermis. However, the unique undulating structure of basement membranes (i.e. rete ridges) and the function of BM have not been extensively studied in the fabrication of engineered skin substitutes. In this study, a novel engineered skin substitute incorporating an artificially designed rete ridge (i.e. mogul-shape) was developed using bioprinting and bioinks prepared using collagen and fibrinogen. To mimic the structure of the rete ridges of skin tissue, we developed a modified bioprinting technique, controlling rheological property of bioink to create a mogul-shaped layer. In vitro cellular activities, including the expression of specific genes (those encoding vimentin, laminin-5, collagen IV, and cytokeratins), demonstrated that the engineered skin substitute exhibited more potent cellular responses than the normally bioprinted control owing to the favorable biophysical BM structure and the bioink microenvironment. Additionally, the feasibility of utilizing the bioprinted skin-structure was evaluated in a mouse model, and in vivo results demonstrated that the bioprinted skin substitutes effectively promoted wound healing capabilities. Based on these results, we suggest that bioprinted skin tissues and the bioprinting technique for mimicking rete ridges can be used not only as potential lab-chip models for testing cosmetic materials and drugs, but also as complex physiological models for understanding human skin.
Improved identification of network anomalies through optimal CURE clustering
Authors: Wu Xiaoqian , Chen Cheng , Quan Lili
Published: October 2024

In this paper, we propose an advanced network anomaly behavior identification framework to overcome the constraints inherent in conventional rule- or signature-based approaches, which often struggle with emerging and previously unknown threats. Central to our framework is an Enhanced CURE (Cluster Updating and REfining) clustering algorithm, meticulously tailored and refined to incorporate a density-based methodology. This enhancement enables the algorithm to discern subtle shifts in network anomaly patterns with heightened precision. The implementation workflow commences with the application of the optimized CURE algorithm to analyze network data, followed by the deployment of a sophisticated anomaly degree ranking mechanism. This mechanism, through meticulous calculation of individual data points’ anomaly degrees and subsequent ranking, effectively isolates those deviating significantly from standard behavioral norms, incorporating a strategic threshold to filter out false positives. To validate our methodology’s efficacy and its superiority over existing techniques, experiments were conducted utilizing a substantial real-world network dataset. These tests affirm not only a marked increase in the accuracy of abnormal behavior recognition and a reduction in computational intricacy but also demonstrate the adaptability across diverse network ecosystems. Our approach has proven successful in pinpointing a wide array of network anomalies, encompassing malicious cyberattacks, fraudulent activities, unauthorized intrusions, and breaches of security protocols, thereby highlighting its comprehensive capability in bolstering network defense strategies. Despite the notable advancements and successful identification of various network anomalies, our framework currently lacks integration with real-time learning capabilities, limiting its immediate responsiveness to rapidly evolving attack patterns and necessitating ongoing research for dynamic updates and adaptive learning mechanisms.
Marbles and meta-schists from Bidzar (North Region of Cameroon): characteristics and the use of meta-schists as additives in experimenting blended cements production
Authors: Djifack Joilita Etekam , Kanouo Nguo Sylvestre , Sabiha Anas Boussaa , Hamadou Toumba , Basua Emmanuel Archelaus Afanga
Published: October 2024

This work presents the petrography and major element composition of marbles and meta-schists found in the Bidzar CIMENCAM marble quarry (North Region, Cameroon). Some of the studied rocks were selected and combined with other characterized raw materials to process schist-blended cements. Marbles are pure (white) or impure (pink, light to dark-grey, or dull yellow…) calcitic, dolomitic, or transitional type, and composed of CaO (32–57 wt%), MgO (0.49–24 wt%), and SiO2 (0.09–8.4 wt%). Meta-schists are bluish-green chlorite meta-schist, chlorite-bearing dark-grey meta-schist, and yellowish-green sericite meta-schist with SiO2 (26–47.3 wt%), Al2O3 (11–16 wt%), Fe2O3 (8–15 wt%), CaO (3–26 wt%), and MgO (4–15 wt%). The used cement raw materials include: clinker, gypsum, marble additive, low CaO bluish-green chlorite meta-schist and low CaO chlorite-bearing dark-grey meta-schist. The two groups of manufactured blended cements mainly composed of CaO (64.2–64.6 wt%), SiO2 (18.0–18.5 wt%), are within the range in ASTM standard, and of some reference cements. The LSF (1.11–1.15), HM (2.6–2.8), SAR (4.6–5.1), SR (2.8–3.1), and AR (1.5–1.7), are within the range of some reference OPC. The proportion of free lime (0.92%–1.25%) is within the range 0.8%–2.25% for reference cement Multi X (CEMIX32.5 R). The proportion of SO3 (1.6%–2.3%,), LOI (8.9%–13.8%), and IR (1.3%–10.6%), are partly close to those of reference cement and other OPC. The BSSA (4794 to 5794 cm2/g) and proportion of retained sieved fractions (4.13 to 11.1%) place the processed cements are within high fineness type. The setting time (130–245 min) seem to satify cement standards. The compressive strength tests show a decrease in strength with the increase in proportion of meta-schist; which could be due to the mineralogical composition of the used cements and their high IR.
The Avoided Loss Rule
Authors: Summers Andy
Published: October 2024

This chapter critiques the orthodox account of the rule of mitigation known as the ‘avoided loss rule’. First, it considers the application of the rule. It argues that the leading texts on damages correctly focus on the ‘directness’ of the claimant’s conduct in relation to the breach; however, they fail to specify how this directness test is applied by the courts. Second, the chapter considers the effect on damages where the avoided loss rule applies. It argues that the rule can result in an award of damages greater than the claimant’s factual loss, yet this effect is in tension with the conventional ‘loss-based’ understanding of damages. The orthodox account of the avoided loss rule also incorrectly treats the claimant’s actual conduct as simply ‘ignored’ in the assessment of damages, when really it involves substituting steps that the claimant did not in fact take, resulting in a counterfactual assessment of the claimant’s breach position.
Developing the Causal Explanation
Authors: Summers Andy
Published: October 2024

This chapter lays the foundations of the book’s main argument, that mitigation is explained as an aspect of causation. First, it demonstrates the extent of judicial support for this explanation. Second, it shows how legal scholars have tended to resist the proposition that mitigation is explained by causal principles, on the basis that judicial references to causation are too vague and indeterminate. Third, it develops the causal explanation by drawing on two ‘commonsense’ principles of causation identified by Hart and Honoré in Causation in the Law, and later refined empirically by experimental psychologists. These are the principles of choice and abnormality. It is argued that these principles open the way to a more precise causal theory that can be used to explain judicial reasoning and decisions on mitigation.
The Market Rule
Authors: Summers Andy
Published: October 2024

This chapter argues that the so-called ‘market rule’ of damages is best explained as an aspect of mitigation, and more specifically, as an application of the replication rule. The market rule is conventionally expressed as the rule that where there is an available market for substitute performance, the claimant’s damages will be assessed by reference to that market value, rather than what actually happened. First, the chapter debunks arguments that this rule is incompatible with mitigation: this is so only on the orthodox understanding of mitigation, not the new account put forward in this book. The chapter then sets out the circumstances under which the market rule will apply, emphasizing the importance of the claimant’s choice not to resort to the market. Finally, it explains the effect of the market rule as a counterfactual assessment of the claimant’s breach position, as if the claimant had resorted to the market.
Relationship to Other Doctrines
Authors: Summers Andy
Published: October 2024

This chapter examines the relationship between mitigation and various other doctrines in the law of damages that may be related to or overlapping with it. It argues that the doctrines of intervening acts by the claimant and betterment are both part of the law of mitigation, properly understood, since they entail applications of the replication and exceptionality rules. By contrast, remoteness is distinct from mitigation since it has major differences in scope and application, and—unlike mitigation—is a true limitation on damages. Contributory negligence and mitigation can overlap. Their effects are incompatible, and the better view is that mitigation will have primacy. Finally, the chapter argues that the so-called White & Carter limitation is also distinct from mitigation, since it serves to restrict the availability of the action for the agreed sum rather than as a tool for assessing damages.
Triple Crown: A Single Autopsy Case with Alzheimer’s Disease, Parkinson’s Disease, and Progressive Supranuclear Palsy
Authors: Piya G , Kumar G , Iqbal S , Cai D
Published: October 2024

Introduction/Objective

Neurodegenerative diseases such as Alzheimer’s Disease(AD), Idiopathic Parkinson’s disease (PD), and Progressive Supranuclear Palsy (PSP), manifest with progressive cognitive and motor deterioration. While each condition traditionally presents distinct clinical features, overlapping symptoms among them make antemortem clinical diagnose less accurate. Concomitant proteinopathies are frequent among neurodegenerative diseases. Here, we report a single autopsy case demonstrating the simultaneous presence of PSP, PD and AD.

Methods/Case Report

A 70- year- old male, with dementia and a familial history of progressive supranuclear palsy in his brother, underwent autopsy due to concern for progressive supranuclear palsy. The histopathological examination revealed the presence of “ C” age- related plaque score providing definite diagnosis of Alzheimer’s disease.

Immunohistochemistry studies on brain sections revealed the presence of Tau positive globose tangles and neurites indicating progressive supranuclear palsy. Furthermore, alpha-synuclein positivity was observed for Lewy bodies and Lewy neurites, confirming idiopathic Parkinson’s disease.

Results (if a Case Study enter NA)

NA

Conclusion

While coexisting neurodegenerative diseases with different proteinopathies have been well documented, this case represents the first report providing pathological confirmation of the simultaneous presence of Alzheimer’s Disease, Parkinson’s Disease, and progressive supranuclear palsy in a single patient. These unique findings underscore the complexity of neurodegenerative processes and highlights the importance of comprehensive diagnostic evaluation in patients presenting with overlapping clinical symptoms. These findings hold significant potential to contribute further in the field.
Suppurative Granulomatous Osteomyelitis with Microcystic Changes Due to Mycobacterium chelonae- abscessus Complex
Authors: Patel N K , Konopka K , Perry W R
Published: October 2024

Introduction/Objective

Mycobacterium chelonae and Mycobacterium abscessus are rapidly growing non-tuberculous mycobacterium found in soil and water, and represent rare causes of skin and soft tissue infection. Treatment typically involves an extended course of antimicrobial therapy and occasionally surgical debridement. Previous reports have described a distinctive pattern of suppurative granulomatous inflammation with microcystic changes in skin biopsies; however, the morphologic changes of M. chelonae-abscessus complex as a cause of osteomyelitis have not been well-documented in the literature.

Methods/Case Report

We searched our database from 2013 to 2024 for bone samples diagnosed as granulomatous inflammation in which M. chelonae or M. abscessus were identified on concurrent microbiology studies. Patient demographics, risk factors for infection, and treatment data were collected.

Results (if a Case Study enter NA)

Three patients with culture- or PCR-confirmed M. chelonae (2) or M. abscessus

(1) were identified. All infections involved bones of the distal extremities. Patients were 57 years and older with risk factors for infection that included: diabetes (1), intravenous drug use (1), and long-term immunosuppressive therapy (1). All patients presented with osteomyelitis refractory to antibiotic therapy for which bone biopsy, bone resection, or amputation was performed. All cases showed suppurative granulomatous inflammation with microcystic changes. Cystic spaces were markedly enriched for acid-fast bacilli on Fite and/or Ziehl-Neelsen stains. In two patients, the antimicrobial regimen was changed as a result of the pathologic findings and microbiologic testing that provided additional information about speciation and susceptibilities.

Conclusion

Suppurative granulomatous inflammation has a broad differential that includes blastomycosis, sporotrichosis, cat scratch disease, non-tuberculous mycobacterial infection, and granulomatosis with polyangiitis, for which there are substantial treatment differences. When this pattern of microcystic suppurative granulomatous inflammation is encountered, it is important to perform special stains for acid-fast bacilli, particularly when seen in distal extremity lesions from patients with infections that are refractory to empiric antibiotic therapy.
Sneaky DCIS-looking Invasive Ductal Carcinoma of the Breast in the Extensive DCIS Background
Authors: Shi W , Ren D , Ifegwu I , Niu C
Published: October 2024

Introduction/Objective

In the most cases, invasive ductal carcinoma (IDC) of the breast is identifiable when they present with classic infiltrative growth pattern. However, subset of IDC can occur in a very sneaky way, significantly mimicking the appearance of ductal carcinoma in situ (DCIS). In this condition, it’s much more easier to miss the invasive component without pulling ancillary staining when morphologic findings are extremely compatible with DCIS, especially the diagnosis of DCIS was made on the previous biopsy.

Methods/Case Report

Retrospective analysis of the histologic and immunohistochemical findings of pure DCIS and DCIS-looking invasive ductal carcinoma.

Results (if a Case Study enter NA)

Here, we reported a 55 year-old female who was noted to have microcalcification at the 11:00 o’clock of the right posterior breast on routine mammographic examination in 09/2023. Biopsy of the calcification area in 10/2023 reported high grade DCIS (ER+ PR-). Histologic examination of subsequent mastectomy specimen showed two separate DCIS-looking areas. Immunohistochemical (IHC) staining showed that myoepithelial markers, p63 and smooth muscle myosin heavy chain (SMMHC), were retained at the periphery of all the expanded acini in one area. Unexpectedly and surprisingly, p63 and SMMHC were completely lost at the periphery of part of the DCIS-looking acini in another area, immunohistochemically compatible with the diagnosis of invasive ductal carcinoma admixed with DCIS.

Conclusion

Knowing that invasive ductal carcinoma of the breast can present as DCIS-looking morphology, especially given the condition that the diagnosis of DCIS was rendered on the previous biopsy, will enhance awareness of pathologists to recognize sneaky DCIS-looking invasive ductal carcinoma in the extensive DCIS background. In turn, this will prevent misdiagnosis and under-treatment of patients with invasive ductal carcinoma of the breast.
Occurrence of high hyperdiploid karyotypes in childhood Acute Lymphoblastic Leukemia
Authors: Sachwani K
Published: October 2024

Introduction/Objective

High hyperdiploidy is defined as the non-random gain of chromosomes, increasing the modal chromosome number from 46 to between 51 and 65 or 67. This condition is the most common finding in childhood acute lymphoblastic leukemia, with a good outcome. It is generally characterized by the gain of chromosomes, typically X, 4, 6, 10, 14, 17, 18, and 21. The objective of this study is to determine the frequency of high hyperdiploidy in childhood ALL.

Methods/Case Report

Cytogenetic results of 435 patients, reported between October 2020 and September 2022 were reviewed retrospectively. All individuals were suspected for ALL between ages 1-15 years. Chromosomal analysis was performed in the Cytogenetics Lab of the Indus hospital and health network. Fluorescent in-situ hybridization (FISH) analysis were also carried out with probes for co-relating the gain of chromosomes.

Results (if a Case Study enter NA)

A total of 435 individuals were successfully karyotyped, 82 karyotypes showed hyperploidy without any additional abnormality, 213 patients showed hyperploidy along with additional structural aberrations, and 143 individuals showed normal karyotype.

Among all the hyperploid karyotypes, chromosomes X, 4, 6, 10, 14, 17, 18, 21 were all gained in approximately 70% of the cases. Whereas, chromosome 21 was gained in 100% of all cases. FISH results also showed the gain of signals for particular probes including chromosomes 8, 9, 11, 12, 21 and 22.

Conclusion

In summary, this study leads to the fact that high hyperdiploidy is the most common abnormality in childhood acute lymphoblastic leukemia. It is assured that the occurrence of constituent trisomies of certain chromosomes is linked with the prognosis of the disease and also helps in determining the differences in treatment of the disease. Furthermore, correlation of karyotypes with the FISH results have also played a vital role in increasing the accuracy of results in this study.
ALK1-negative Epithelioid Histiocytoma
Authors: Hong J , Markidan J , Helm T , Helm K , Thieu T
Published: October 2024

Introduction/Objective

We present a case of epithelioid histiocytoma (EH). The epithelioid nature of this lesion imitates the appearance of neoplastic lesions such as melanocytic, dermatofibroma/histiocytoma, non-Langerhans histiocytosis such as reticulohistiocytoma, atypical fibroxanthoma, and rhabdomyosarcoma.

Methods/Case Report

Due to the unusual morphology and aberrant immunohistochemical staining pattern of this specific case, the sample was analyzed through Next Generation Sequencing (NGS), which showed the presence of a fusion of genes Sequestosome 1 (SQSTM1) and Anaplastic lymphoma kinas (ALK). SQSTM1 gene produces proteins involved in signal transduction pathways as well as autophagy, while ALK mainly serves the role of cellular communication and development. The most well-known ALK fusion partners include SQSTM and Vinculin (VCL), while there are other fusion partners that were more recently discovered such as Dynactin Subunit 1 (DCTN1) and ETS variant transcription factor 6 (ETV6). The spectrum of neoplasms produced through these fusions is wide as seen in lung adenocarcinoma and renal cell carcinoma (EML4-ALK), epithelioid histiocytoma (SQSTM1-ALK and VCL- ALK), pediatric renal cell carcinoma (VCL-ALK) among others.

Results (if a Case Study enter NA)

NA

Conclusion

We hope this case is a helpful addition to the literature to further aid diagnoses of future ALK fusion cases.
Diagnostic And Post-Therapeutic Histopathology Of Hansen’s Disease in a Man With Rheumatoid Arthritis
Authors: Younus A , Fox S
Published: October 2024

Introduction/Objective

Hansen’s Disease (leprosy), caused by Mycobacterium leprae, is a chronic infectious disease primarily affecting the skin and peripheral nerves. In the United States, leprosy remains rare, with less than 200 cases per year reported to the CDC. Diagnosis is often delayed, due to low clinical suspicion and lack of experience among healthcare providers, leading to potentially severe complications and increased transmission risk.

Methods/Case Report

A 71-year-old man presented to dermatology with a progressive, non-tender erythematous rash involving the arms and chest. He denied any travel history, or exposure to armadillos, and had no family history of a similar rash. His medical history was significant for rheumatoid arthritis, for which he was receiving methotrexate. The clinical differential included drug eruption, tinea infection, or sarcoidosis. Skin biopsy revealed extensive infiltration of the dermis by noncaseating granulomas surrounding cutaneous nerves, and AFB stain highlighted numerous bacilli consistent with Mycobacterium leprae, leading to the diagnosis of Hansen’s disease. The WHO classification was multibacillary leprosy, and the Ridley-Jopling classification was borderline tuberculoid (BT) to perhaps mid borderline (BB), based on clinical and histologic features. He was started on triple therapy, and biopsies performed during treatment, as well as at three years follow up showed marked improvement, with some remaining disease detected in unresolved rash.

Results (if a Case Study enter NA)

NA

Conclusion

This case presents a diagnostic challenge given the absence of typical risk factors for Mycobacterium leprae transmission. The patient’s immunocompromised status due to methotrexate therapy may have predisposed him to the disease. Documented cases of Hansen’s disease have more than doubled in the southeastern states since 2013, with concern for endemic regions emerging in Florida. Early recognition, classification, and prompt treatment are essential to prevent disease progression and reduce transmission. Increased education and awareness among healthcare providers are crucial to improving diagnostic accuracy and patient outcomes in cases of leprosy.