bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Experimental Investigation of Nonlinear Modulation Characteristics of Mode Localization in Electrostatic Coupled Resonators
Authors: Lyu Ming , Zhao Jian , Kacem Najib , Wu Rigumala , Zhi Xiang , Sun Rongjian
Published: April 2024

This paper focuses on the typical configuration of double ended fixed supported electrostatic coupled resonators in mode localization phenomena, and conducts in-depth research on the influence of nonlinear coefficients in electrostatic coupled resonators on their vibration behavior. Firstly, the designed devices are processed based on the standard process of SOI, and the printed circuit board (PCB) of the test circuit is designed using Altium Designer software to connect external circuits with the tested device. Secondly, the working principles of electrostatic drive and capacitance detection are elucidated, and the mechanical model in the system is transformed into an electrical model through equivalent circuit principles, thereby revealing the influence of parasitic feedthrough capacitance on the detection signal. Finally, an open-loop testing circuit was built in a vacuum environment to test the modal localization characteristics of the electrostatic coupling resonator and the performance of the mode localization acceleration sensor.
MEMS sensitive structure sand and dust friction contamination test and electrical variation characteristics
Authors: Chen Jinchuan , Wen Xiao , Huang Qinwen , Ren Wanchun , Ruan Siyu
Published: April 2024

The impact of dust pollution on the sensitive components of Micro-Electro-Mechanical Systems (MEMS) has been a hot topic in current reliability research. However, previous studies have rarely focused on the fundamental analysis of the influence of dust pollutants on the sensitive components of MEMS, and these research results lack universality. This paper aims to present experimental results on the electrical characteristic changes of MEMS thermal sensitive resistors based on dust friction, providing a more detailed description and explanation. Through dust friction experiments, we investigated the effects of dust particle size and relative humidity on the electrical characteristics of MEMS devices. We chose the resistance value output as the electrical characteristic parameter, based on the performance exhibited during the dust friction experiments. We conducted a detailed analysis of the reasons for the changes in the electrical characteristic parameters. The research results showed that when dust particles settle on the device, the failure mode of the device manifests as resistance drift. The inducing factor is the electrostatic current generated by the friction between dust particles, which enters the sensitive components through the principle of electrostatic dissipation. The measurement principle leads to changes in the resistance value measurement, although the actual resistance value does not change. The magnitude of this electrostatic current is directly proportional to the size of the particles and inversely proportional to the relative humidity. This finding provides theoretical guidance for identifying failure-inducing factors in MEMS failure modes.
Research on the design and balancing strategy with multi-section lithium battery protection IC
Authors: Shi X. , Fang S. , Wang L.
Published: April 2024

This study uses 0.5um BCD technology to design a multi section lithium battery protection chip suitable for small mobile electronic devices such as Bluetooth earphones and smart bracelets. By providing a complete system structure diagram, the principles and design methods of several key circuits in the chip were introduced. This chip can effectively monitor the voltage of lithium batteries, take protective measures against abnormal situations such as overcharging, discharging, and overcurrent, and has a balancing module with dynamic power consumption management function. The balancing module adopts a passive balancing architecture, and the balancing algorithm used is an average based voltage detection algorithm. Using this algorithm can make the balancing system structure simple and reduce system power consumption, reduce the differences between batteries within the group, and thus improve the uniformity of the battery pack. The overcharging detection accuracy of the designed chip is ±25mV, the overcharging detection accuracy is 50mV, and the static working current of the chip is 7uA.
Stress isolations for resonant pressure micro sensors
Authors: Lu Yulan , Xie Bo , Chen Deyong , Wang Junbo , Chen Jian
Published: April 2024

This paper presents stress isolations for resonant pressure micro sensors that are supported by fixed isolation layers during assembly. While the resonant frequencies of the two resonators experience shifts due to measured pressures, they are susceptible to environmental perturbations. The proposed stress-isolated assembly in this study effectively mitigates the adverse effects of environmental noise and stabilizes the intrinsic frequencies of the resonators. Specifically, when subjected to temperature variations within the range of -55∼85 °C, the accuracy of the stress-isolated resonant pressure microsensor was determined to be ±0.01% FS. Similarly, during 3-axis random vibration tests, the accuracy of these stress-isolated resonant pressure microsensors was quantified as ±0.01% FS in response to environmental vibrations.
Performance simulation of a dual-channel micro-mixer
Authors: Zhang He , Chen Bingjun , Yang Shuang , Chuai Rongyan
Published: April 2024

In order to investigate whether changing the relative positions of the connecting units of a micro-mixer with dual connecting units would affect the mixing performance, the group proposed a micro-mixer with dual connecting units based on previous studies. The micro-mixer consists of a T-shaped inlet, six cubic mixing chambers and a dual connection channel between the mixing chambers. Numerical simulations showed that the outlet mixing index was 40.6% when the positions of the inlet and connecting units of the micro-mixer were staggered on both sides of the horizontal center and on both sides of the vertical center. At the same flow rate, the mixing index of the first mixing unit reaches 66.4% when the inlet of the micro-mixer changes from both sides of the horizontal center to a T-shaped inlet. The increase in the mixing index suggests that the contraction-stretching dual-channel arrangement can be utilized to promote mixing by utilizing the non-equilibrium vortices generated by the diffusion displacement limitations on the side walls of the mixing unit. The mixing efficiency of the optimized model designed according to this strategy increased to 85.8%. This paper provides a new perspective for optimizing the structural design and performance enhancement of micro-mixers.
Parylene-based stretchable neural electrodes with serpentine interconnects
Authors: Liu Chen , Zhang Haonan , Zhang Yuming , Cheng Shiyuan , Wang Ruibo , Zhang Yi-Men
Published: April 2024

Parylene C has rapidly gained popularity as a flexible and biocompatible material for next generation chronic probes. However, the mechanical strains attributed to the intracranial pressure and micromotion may compromise the longevity and biostability of implanted neural devices. To obtain conformable bioelectronic interfaces, it is essential to incorporate serpentine metal interconnects in flexible neural electrodes to achieve stretchability. In this paper, the influence of straight segments on the mechanical behavior of serpentine-shaped Parylene C probes has been investigated by finite element analysis. The etching performance of Parylene C with different masks are compared and the optimum masking material is the SiO2 film grown at a low temperature by inductively coupled plasma chemical vapor deposition (ICP-CVD). In vitro electrochemical measurements verify excellent electrode function with a low impedance of 13±0.4 kΩ at 1 kHz, which is beneficial for high-resolution neural recording.
Mechanical analysis of PDMS films based on different hyperelastic numerical constitutive models
Authors: Wang Qian , Wang Chenyang , Chen Zhiwen , Liu Li
Published: April 2024

PDMS(polydimethylsiloxane) is widely employed as a substrate material in flexible electronic devices, necessitating its ability to undergo camber deformation while maintaining excellent ductility and flexibility. Understanding the mechanical behavior of PDMS is imperative for its practical applications. Consequently, to numerically investigate the tensile behavior of PDMS, two commonly used hyperelastic constitutive models, the Mooney-Rivlin model and the 3-term Ogden model, have been employed to describe its mechanical characteristics. The material coefficients were determined by fitting the uniaxial tensile experimental data. Subsequently, separate finite element models were developed for the PDMS membrane and the Cu-PDMS composite layer structure. The numerical findings demonstrate that both the Mooney-Rivlin model and the 3-term Ogden model adequately fit the experimental data. Nevertheless, in comparison to the 3-term Ogden model, the PDMS stress distribution exhibits higher values at the same tensile rate, consequently resulting in the fracture of the Cu layer first.
Research on self-made zinc ion microfluidic chip detection system based on all solid state ion selective electrodetrode
Authors: Zhang Wenpin , Wang Shuangquan , Xiong Zhi , Ma Lin , Liu’ Yun , Zhao Wei , Chen Qiyong , Chen Shouliang , Xu Yi
Published: April 2024

This paper first prepared and characterized an all solid zinc ion selective electrode using electrode deposition, and further established a microfluidic chip system integrating zinc ion ASS-ISE and a self-made potential detection device. The stability of the self-made potential detection device was verified by comparing it with traditional electrochemical workstations. The accuracy of the microfluidic chip detection system was verified through comparative testing with traditional atomic absorption spectrophotometry (AAS). The experimental results show that the accuracy and stability of the microfluidic chip system integrated with ASS-ISE and self-made potential detection device meet the requirements of on-site rapid detection.
Quantify uncertainty in historical simulation and future projection of surface wind speed over global land and ocean
Authors: Zhang Zhengtai , Wang Kaicun
Published: April 2024

Quantifying uncertainty in simulations of surface wind speed (SWS) has significant implications for its applications. Here, we examine the SWS changes from the 6th coupled model intercomparison project (CMIP6) model outputs, and analyzed the simulation uncertainties in CMIP6 both in the historical period and future projections. The results show that the both trend and interannual variability of SWS are underestimated in the CMIP6. The SWS over most of the Northern Hemisphere will reduce by 4%–6% under the high emission scenario in the last 21st Century, whereas it will increase by 6%–10% over South America and Southeastern Pacific. Over land, the majority of projection uncertainties is dominated by model uncertainty, followed by the internal variability and scenario uncertainty. Over ocean, the simulation uncertainty is greatly influenced by model uncertainty and internal variability, with the scenario uncertainty accounting for around 20% of total simulation uncertainty in the late 21st century.
Analysis of Existence and Faults Impact on Geological Disasters Using GGMPlus Data
Authors: Hasan M F R , Susilo A , Suryo E A , Agung P A M , Idmi M H , Zaika Y , Zulaikah S
Published: April 2024

The existence of faults can trigger various geological natural disasters because faults will react when an earthquake occurs and volcanic activity occurs, causing effects in the form of landslides, subsidence, ground movements, and other geological disasters. This research aims to analyze the existence and impact of local faults on geological disasters around the research location using GGMPlus data. A derivative filter is used to get FHD and SVD maps based on the gravity anomaly map. Fault analysis was carried out using a graph from the FHD and SVD map incisions, which were then correlated with each other. The incision graph of the meeting point between the maximum FHD value and the zero SVD value will be interpreted as a fault structure. The results show that there were several fault indication points; these points were then drawn straight lines to get the lineaments of the faults. The fault lineaments with the location of the landslide and subsidence events are correlated so that it becomes evident that the subsidence and landslide disaster in the Brau Hamlet, Batu City, area can be associated with local faults. Based on several previous research on determining faults in coastal areas, it is known that the areas crossed by the Palu-Koro fault have experienced many disasters, such as landslides, land movement and liquefaction. The existence of local faults in an area can increase the impact of damage when natural disasters such as earthquakes and landslides occur.
Evaluation Of Zoning Regulations in Coastal Areas for Disaster Risk Reduction of Climate Change
Authors: Kautsary J , Rahman B
Published: April 2024

The area affected by floods on the coast of Kendal Regency continues to increase. In 2022 there were 11 districts. Rowosari is one of the sub-districts that was quite badly affected by the floods. The height of the flood reached 2 meters and submerged more than 400 housing units. Regulations on land use and activities in Kendal are regulated in Regional Spatial Plans, which contain land use and zoning regulations. This article aims to evaluate zoning regulations to reduce the risk of disasters, especially floods in the Coastal Area. The approach method used is deductive with content analysis, using 2 variables from the main parameters of disaster-resilient cities RC-3B, namely land use based on multiple disasters and infrastructure design improvement. The analysis technique uses a comparison of literature reviews. The results of this research show that the arrangement of zones on the coast has not considered disaster risk reduction. This is because spatial utilization and activity arrangements have not considered the upstream and downstream concepts and disaster resilience areas. Evaluation of this zoning regulation is useful for revising regional spatial planning in the future, to create a disaster-resilient space.
Numerical modeling of wave reflection and transmission in I-Shaped Floating Breakwater Series
Authors: Sujantoko  , Ahidah D R , Wardhana W , Djatmiko E B , Mustain M
Published: April 2024

The effectiveness of floating breakwaters in reducing waves can be achieved by adjusting the placement of structures according to conditions in the field. The effect of floating breakwater layout will affect the transmission and reflection waves. This study numerically modeled a floating breakwater with 0° porosity using Flow-3D to determine the reflection and transmission waves. The layout under study is a connection of three single-model floating breakwaters (I-shaped), connected by connectors made of coated wire rope in three variations of placement for wave incident angles (0°, 30°, and 60°). The study results show that the greater the angle of inclination of the structure causes an increase in the transmission coefficient and the lower the reflection coefficient. Floating breakwater layouts with tilt angles of 0°, 30°, and 60° have transmission coefficient values that differ not too significantly, where the tilt angle of 60° is more effective at damping waves compared to other tilt angles.
Design of Water Pump Station Control in Polder System using IoT and Hybrid Fuzzy Neural Network
Authors: Ikhwanudin  , Harjanto Imadudin , Yudaningrum Farida
Published: April 2024

This study aims to design a prototype of water pump station control in a polder system using IoT and artificial intelligence at Sringin Polder system. The design includes the hydrology analysis to define how the pump station should be set to control the level of the embankment. The second part is the IoT system that contain the sensor and interface to the water pump in the pump station. The third part is the core of control system using hybrid fuzzy neural network as the heart of the control system. Pump station has important role in the polder system to control the level of water in embankment. Five pumps in the system should operate based on schedule determined by the hydrology modelling. Since it is located in separate area with the control room, MQTT protocol is used to deliver data communication in both ways, to send the water level detected by ultrasonic sensor and also to switch on and off the pump by control system. In other hand, hybrid fuzzy neural network is used to control the pump scheduling based on water level detected.
Confinement Effectiveness on The Strength and Ductility from Geopolymer Concrete
Authors: Kustirini A , Antonius  , Setiyawan P
Published: April 2024

Geopolymer concrete made from fly ash as a substitute to Portland cement is a relatively new and environmentally friendly material. Various studies have revealed that geopolymer concrete is more brittle than Portland cement concrete. To increase its ductility in structures, geopolymer concrete needs to be confined. However, confinement models for geopolymer concrete are still limited. This paper compares some confinement models with stress-strain data obtained from laboratory tests. The confinement models investigated here were Ganesan et al. which was proposed for geopolymer concrete, and Mander et al. which were to Portland cement concrete. The comparison was conducted on the stress-strain action, including the characteristics from the ascending curve, the maximum stress and its corresponding strain, the descending curve. The outcomes show that the values of initial stiffness of geopolymer concrete simulated by models are higher than the actual values obtained from the tests and other confinement models. However, the maximum stress and the maximum strain values obtain from the models under estimate the test outcomes.
Analysis Of Water Availability In The Environmental Water Sources Of The Aikmampat River Sub-Region In Fulfilling The Need For Clean Water In The South Part Of Lombok Island
Authors: Evayanti R , Sugiharta  , Juanita
Published: April 2024

Clean waters infrastructure functions in utilizing water resources for the general public. General planning for clean water development in this study is focused on water resource management in the form of stewardship, provision, use, development, and exploitation of water resources considering that the social, environmental, and economic functions of water resources cannot be separated. To estimate water availability for biota or ecosystems, we use the discharge at Q-95% at each weir. To analyze waters availability for biota, we refer to the flow duration curve graph. We have calculated the water balance for the Lingkung sub watershed of Aik Mampat, taking into account the surface water sources. The water balance has been calculated under two conditions: existing conditions (which include needs of irrigation and existing water needs of raw) and planned conditions (which consider the development of a drinking water management system). The level of service in the south coast area for 5 sub-districts in the development plan year was obtained at 150 l/s and a maximum of 270,75 l/s in the plan year. The maximum irrigation water requirement is 320 l/s with an average of 50 l/s. The water balance in the Aikmampat Sub-watershed (Lingkung surface water source) saw a decrease in the minimum FK (Reliability Factor) from the existing condition of 40% to 25% (plan condition). Water rotation arrangements in the spider channel need to be carried out, especially in June and July.
Floating House Platform Stability Test with a Lightweight Concrete Cover Made of Expanded Polystyrene System (EPS)
Authors: Cahyono D. B.
Published: April 2024

Coastal area which affected by floods and tides has problems about safety and comfortable environment. The world of floating construction has introduced substructure foundations made from expanded polystyrene system (EPS) with a lightweight concrete cover. The styrofoam platform must meet the buoyancy, stability and center height test requirements. The research aims to analyze the magnitude of the buoyant force (Fa) against downward force due to the load weight on platform. The platform is strong and stable when upward force (Fa) is greater than total structure weight (G). The object will float if buoyant force (Fa) is greater than the gravitational force (g). The balance is stable if center of object gravity (Bo) is below the center of buoyancy (Ao), otherwise it will be in arbitrary balance. The height of centrum can be determined m > 0, means the object is stable. The research results show that 6.12x5.12x0.68m Styrofoam platform with a buoyancy force of 18,246.6 kg is able to withstand an additional load of 3647.62 kg with an SF value of 2.59. It means there is a linear relationship between magnitude of loading value and sinking height of Styrofoam platform. The safety factor value decreases as the sinking height of platform increases. The stability value of Fa/G is 3.01>1.2. The metacentrum’s height is 16.531 > 0, so the platform with a lightweight concrete cover is declared stable and safe to use.
Environmental Performance Evaluation Using Green Construction Site Index (GCSI) for Residential and Non-Residential Building Construction
Authors: Firmawan F , Pudjiharjo H S , Rahmawati D
Published: April 2024

The realization of sustainable development is the responsibility of every construction element to carry out the prevention of development activities that have the potential to damage and cause environmental problems. Alignment of the ongoing construction project with the maintenance of environmental balance can be carried out through environmental management and monitoring in construction site. One of them, through an assessment and evaluation related to the implementation of sustainable construction, is one of the efforts that can be made to prevent environmental damage due to construction activities. The guideline or measuring tool is the Green Construction Site Index (GCSI) to evaluate six building construction which are grouped into two categories (residential and non-residential buildings). A quantitative measuring instrument to measure five elements consisting of waste minimization, sustainable green construction, resource management, understanding of construction waste and environmental performance on construction as parameters in the implementation of construction activities. The average values obtained from the two categories of buildings based on five elements respectively are 4.11, 3.94, 4.27, 3.85, and 4.20.
Behavior of Modified Strut-and-Tie Model (STM) on Concrete Beams
Authors: Sugianto A , Antonius A , Taufik S
Published: April 2024

Reinforced concrete components are generally designed to withhold shear and bending based on the assumption at strain varies linearly in a section where the applied force is a combination of shear with bending, torsion, or normal forces. The behavior of shear failure in reinforced concrete beams is very different from that in flexural failure. Shear failure is brittle without warning in the form of significant deflection, resulting in diagonal cracks in the beam then the shear force mechanism will be contributed by an arching action where this action can provide a reserve capacity large enough for the beam to carry the load. Nonlinear analysis using the strut-and-tie method is particularly useful for shear-critical structures where classical beam theory is not valid due to significant shear deformations. Strut-and-Tie Model research which is applied to concrete (25 MPa), also uses the optimal configuration FEM software tool from Strut-and-Tie which leads to the efficiency of Strut-and-Tie. The results of the optimization and modification of the Strut-and-Tie Model on concrete will also be applied to the experimental models tested until they fail so that the optimal conditions for numerical models will be obtained.

Based on the analysis result of element model using ANSYS computational assistance program, the ultimate flexural capacity of the beam model will increase depending on the used STM model and inclination angle (Φ), at the STM type 2 high < 1000 mm, inclination angle (Φ) 45° having a decrease in ultimate shear capacity (Vu) of 49,31% against type 1, at the STM model 3 high < 1000 mm, with inclination angle (Φ) 45° having an increase ultimate shear (Vu) of 4,14% against type 1. Stress pattern performed bottle shape in line with diagonal strut. Ductility capacity will be decreased at inclination angle <45° of 27,11%, at inclination angle >45° will be decreased of 55,67%,
3D fractal model with experimental analysis for assessing surface topography in EDM
Authors: Mahmood Muhammad Arif , Ishfaq Kashif , Sana Muhammad , Anwar Saqib , Liou Frank
Published: April 2024

This work presents a novel three-dimensional fractal model designed specifically for morphological analysis of specimens made by the EDM. Within the 3D fractal framework, an algorithm is developed to estimate fractal parameters such as fractal dimension and periodic length. AISI 316 stainless steel, dielectric media, electrode materials, and powder variations were used in experimental trials to validate the 3D fractal model. Fixed pulse time ratios were used to control the EDM process. The specimen having the lowest fractal dimension, the shortest periodic length, the least amount of surface roughness, and the least amount of ten-point height was discovered to be the one machined using kerosene oil dielectric, brass electrode, graphite powder, and 1.0 pulse ratio time. On the other hand, the specimen machined using copper electrode, graphite powder, transformer oil dielectric, and 1.5 pulse ratio time produced the largest periodic length, maximum surface roughness, fractal dimension, and ten-point height. The developed 3D fractal model evaluates the EDM process well and provides insightful information on how to improve surface properties.
Enhancing methyl orange discoloration with TiO2/Fe2O3/AC composites: synergistic adsorption-photocatalysis
Authors: Kartikowati Christina Wahyu , Darmawan Adi , Saraswati Teguh Endah , Bima Damar Nurwahyu , Akbar Ahmad Jundullah , Wiguna Bima , Arutanti Osi , Arif Aditya Farhan
Published: April 2024

Fe2O3/TiO2/AC nanocomposites were successfully synthesized via a sol–gel method, and their efficacy in decomposing methyl orange via adsorption-photocatalytic processes was reported for the first time in this study. Systematic exploration of the physicochemical properties impacting photocatalytic activity was conducted through x-ray diffraction, scanning electron microscopy—energy-dispersive x-ray spectroscopy, and Fourier transform infrared spectroscopy (FTIR) characterizations. The study revealed that the discoloration of methyl orange resulted from a synergistic interplay between adsorption and photocatalysis. The incorporation of Fe2O3 nanoparticles significantly elevated photocatalytic activity by 70%, with additional enhancement observed upon the introduction of activated carbon (AC) particles. The synergistic effects of AC adsorption and TiO2/Fe2O3 photocatalysis exhibited remarkable efficiency in degrading methyl orange under visible light irradiation. The trial functioning of Fe2O3 and AC in the TiO2/Fe2O3/AC composite, which serves as an adsorbent, an electron trap, and a co-catalyst providing active sites, significantly improved photocatalytic activity. These findings not only contribute to understanding the crucial role of composite TiO2 in conjunction with metal and carbon-based co-catalysts but also hold valuable implications for advancing research in the development of adsorption-photocatalytic systems for wastewater treatment.
Pacemaker effects on online social rhythms on a social network
Authors: Takano Masanori , Yokotani Kenji , Abe Nobuhito
Published: April 2024

The dynamics of coupled oscillators in a network are a significant topic in complex systems science. People with daily social rhythms interact through social networks in everyday life. This can be considered as a coupled oscillator in social networks, which is also true in online society (online social rhythms). Controlling online social rhythms can contribute to healthy daily rhythms and mental health. We consider controlling online social rhythms by introducing periodic forcing (pacemakers). However, theoretical studies predict that pacemaker effects do not spread widely across mutually connected networks such as social networks. We aimed to investigate the characteristics of the online social rhythms with pacemakers on an empirical online social network. Therefore, we conducted an intervention experiment on the online social rhythms of hundreds of players (participants who were pacemakers) using an avatar communication application (N = 416). We found that the intervention had little effect on neighbors’ online social rhythms. This may be because mutual entrainment stabilizes the neighbors’ and their friends’ rhythms. That is, their online social rhythms were stable despite the disturbances. However, the intervention affected on neighbors’ rhythms when a participant and their neighbor shared many friends. This suggests that interventions to densely connected player groups may make their and their friends’ rhythms better. We discuss the utilization of these properties to improve healthy online social rhythms.
Proton pump inhibitors and risk of severe COVID-19 in older people
Authors: Gramont Baptiste , Fayolle Sophie , Beltramin Diva , Bidat Nisrine , Boudet Julie , Chaux Robin , Grange Lucile , Barrau Mathilde , Gagneux-Brunon Amandine , Cathébras Pascal , Killian Martin , Botelho-Nevers Elisabeth , Célarier Thomas
Published: April 2024

Introduction

Severe acute respiratory syndrome coronavirus 2 is a viral respiratory infection that can cause systemic disorders and lead to death, particularly in older people. Proton pump inhibitors (PPIs) increase the risk of enteric and lung infections. Considering the broad use of PPIs in older people, the potential role of PPIs in COVID-19 could be of dramatic significance. The objective of our study was to evaluate the link between PPIs and severe COVID-19 in older people.

Method

We performed a retrospective cohort study, including all patients aged ≥65, hospitalised for a diagnosis of COVID-19. Epidemiological, clinical and biological data were extracted and we performed an Inverse Probability of Treatment Weighing method based on a propensity score.

Results

From March 2020 to February 2021, a total of 834 patients were included, with a median age of 83 and 52.8% were male. A total of 410 patients had a PPIs prescription, 358 (87.3%) were long-term PPIs-users and 52 (12.7%) were recent PPIs-users. Among PPIs-users, 163 (39.8%) patients developed severe COVID-19 versus 113 (26.7%) in PPIs-non users (odds ratio (OR) = 1.59 [1.18–2.14]; P < 0.05). Moreover, the double dose PPI-users had a higher risk of developing severe COVID-19 (OR = 3.36 [1.17–9.66]; P < 0.05) than the full dose PPI-users (OR = 2.15 [1.22–3.76]; P < 0.05) and the half dose PPI-users (OR = 1.64 [1.13–2.37]; P < 0.05).

Conclusion

Our study reports evidence that the use of PPIs was associated with an increased risk of severe COVID-19 in older people.
Comment on ‘ChatGPT and medical writing in dermatology: why should we keep writing?’
Authors: Duff Eimear , Hynes Jason , Ahmad Kashif
Published: April 2024

In this comment on ‘ChatGPT and medical writing in dermatology: why should we keep writing?’, in the current issue of Clinical and Experimental Dermatology, we emphasize some of the limitations in the use of artificial intelligence (AI) in medical research. We nonetheless affirm that this transformational technology will be a valuable research associate in partnership with dermatologists. To paraphrase Professor Karim Lakhani, AI is not going to replace dermatologists, but dermatologists with AI are going to replace humans without AI.
Assessing the 5-year persistence in positive clinical response with innovative psoriasis treatments: a network meta-analysis of Psoriasis Area and Severity Index score
Authors: Husein-ElAhmed Husein , Husein-ElAhmed Sara
Published: April 2024

Background

Psoriasis is a chronic skin condition, for which the approval of several biologics has made a dramatic impact. Despite their initial treatment effectiveness, the challenge lies in understanding the long-term responses, as they may diminish over time. Limitations of drug survival analysis warrant the application of additional outcomes to fully capture the performance of a biologic.

Objectives

To provide a broader perspective on the global landscape of biologic agents’ persistence in positive clinical response by comparing innovative therapies over a 5-year period through a systematic review and network meta-analysis.

Methods

We comprehensively identified studies in PubMed, Embase, Scopus and ClinicalTrials.gov. We defined two outcomes: (i) ‘persistence at optimal response’ (POR) or ‘clinical remission’, and (ii) ‘persistence at suboptimal response’ (PSR) or ‘low disease activity’. Outcomes were measured as the proportions of patients with continuous exposure to a biologic who achieved ≥ 90% or 100% improvement in Psoriasis Area and Severity Index at the end of the predefined 5-year follow-up period.

Results

Eleven publications, comprising 18 randomized controlled trials and 11 202 patients, met the inclusion criteria and were included in the network meta-analysis. In the ranking analysis, guselkumab exhibited the highest cumulative probability of POR (0.84), followed by ixekizumab (0.82) and risankizumab (0.76). Conversely, etanercept (0.42), brodalumab (0.36), apremilast (0.25) and placebo (0.026) showed the lowest cumulative probabilities of POR. For PSR, guselkumab (0.86), ixekizumab (0.75) and risankizumab (0.71) also ranked highest, while brodalumab (0.42), secukinumab (0.23), etanercept (0.19) and placebo (0.019) presented the lowest PSR probabilities.

Conclusions

The highest rates of persistence with clear or almost clear skin can be expected with guselkumab, ixekizumab and risankizumab compared with other biologics. The proposed proxy definitions of long-term persistence (POR and PSR) are reliable measures of patients being successfully treated that warrant further exploration and validation.
Characterizing interstitial lung disease in patients with psoriasis: a cross-sectional analysis in the National Institutes of Health’s All of Us Research Program
Authors: Shaw Vikram R , Damsky William , Homer Robert J , Cohen Jeffrey M
Published: April 2024

We used a case–control design to investigate the electronic health record data of 156 707 participants from the National Institutes of Health’s All of Us Research Program to evaluate the association between psoriasis and interstitial lung disease (ILD). We demonstrated that the rate of ILD was significantly higher among those with psoriasis compared with among controls (4.5% vs. 2.2%; P < 0.001). Furthermore, using three multivariable models and controlling for several confounding variables, we demonstrated a consistent significant association between psoriasis and ILD, with the most stringent model demonstrating an odds ratio of 1.20 (95% confidence interval 1.04–1.39; P = 0.01).
A woman with leonine facies and monoclonal gammopathy
Authors: Mehta Hitaishi , Bishnoi Anuradha , Singh Charanpreet , Rajasekaran Sangamitra , Chatterjee Debajyoti , Kumaran Muthu Sendhil , Handa Sanjeev
Published: April 2024

A 32-year-old woman presented with a 3-year history of progressive skin thickening. On examination, the skin of the glabella was thickened with longitudinal furrows, resulting in leonine facies. Skin-coloured to reddish-brown, firm, waxy, closely spaced papules partially coalescing to form sheets of induration with circular punched-out areas of sparing in between over the face, neck, trunk, abdomen, arms and thighs were seen. She additionally complained of a tingling sensation and occasional pain over the lateral side of her hands. Punch biopsy obtained from a papule over the nape of the neck revealed fibroblast proliferation with collagen and mucin deposition in the upper and midreticular dermis.
Immune cell composition and inflammatory profile of human peri-implantitis and periodontitis lesions
Authors: Malmqvist Sebastian , Clark Reuben , Johannsen Gunnar , Johannsen Annsofi , Boström Elisabeth A , Lira-Junior Ronaldo
Published: April 2024

Peri-implantitis (PI) and periodontitis (PD) are common oral inflammatory diseases, which seem to exhibit critical differences in some of their molecular features. Thus, we assessed the immune cell composition of PI and PD lesions and the corresponding inflammatory profile in soft tissues and crevicular fluid. PI, PD, and control patients were recruited (n = 62), and soft tissue biopsies were collected during surgery. Crevicular fluid around implant or tooth was collected. The proportions of major immune cell populations in tissues were analyzed by flow cytometry, and the inflammatory profile in tissue and crevicular fluid by a multiplex immunoassay. No significant difference was seen between PI and PD lesions in the proportions of immune cells. PI tissues showed an increased frequency of B cells in comparison with control tissues, along with higher levels of IL-1β, TNF-α, IL-4, and BAFF in tissue and crevicular fluid. Moreover, TNF-α, IL-17A, and BAFF were higher in PI tissues, but not in PD, than in control tissues. The immune cell composition did not differ significantly between PI and PD, but an enhanced inflammatory profile was seen in PI tissue. PI lesions were enriched in B cells, and displayed increased levels of IL-1β, TNF-α, IL-4, and BAFF in both tissue and crevicular fluid.
Shaping of metal–organic framework using chitosan and triphosphate cross-linker
Authors: Witono Aditya Irfan , Zheng Xin , Saito Yuki , Noro Shin-ichiro
Published: April 2024

The Zr metal–organic framework (MOF) UiO-66 was shaped into beads using chitosan and P3O105− as a cross-linker. The obtained UiO-66–chitosan beads showed decreases in pore size and Brunauer–Emmett–Teller (BET) surface area but enhanced N2 adsorption energy with retention of Zr-ligand connectivity. This finding will provide an important insight into the practical application of MOFs.
Coexisting atrial fibrillation and cancer: time trends and associations with mortality in a nationwide Dutch study
Authors: Chen Qingui , van Rein Nienke , van der Hulle Tom , Heemelaar Julius C , Trines Serge A , Versteeg Henri H , Klok Frederikus A , Cannegieter Suzanne C
Published: April 2024

Background and Aims

Coexisting atrial fibrillation (AF) and cancer challenge the management of both. The aim of the study is to comprehensively provide the epidemiology of coexisting AF and cancer.

Methods

Using Dutch nationwide statistics, individuals with incident AF (n = 320 139) or cancer (n = 472 745) were identified during the period 2015–19. Dutch inhabitants without a history of AF (n = 320 135) or cancer (n = 472 741) were matched as control cohorts by demographic characteristics. Prevalence of cancer/AF at baseline, 1-year risk of cancer/AF diagnosis, and their time trends were determined. The association of cancer/AF diagnosis with all-cause mortality among those with AF/cancer was estimated by using time-dependent Cox regression.

Results

The rate of prevalence of cancer in the AF cohort was 12.6% (increasing from 11.9% to 13.2%) compared with 5.6% in the controls; 1-year cancer risk was 2.5% (stable over years) compared with 1.8% in the controls [adjusted hazard ratio (aHR) 1.52, 95% confidence interval (CI) 1.46–1.58], which was similar by cancer type. The rate of prevalence of AF in the cancer cohort was 7.5% (increasing from 6.9% to 8.2%) compared with 4.3% in the controls; 1-year AF risk was 2.8% (stable over years) compared with 1.2% in the controls (aHR 2.78, 95% CI 2.69–2.87), but cancers of the oesophagus, lung, stomach, myeloma, and lymphoma were associated with higher hazards of AF than other cancer types. Both cancer diagnosed after incident AF (aHR 7.77, 95% CI 7.45–8.11) and AF diagnosed after incident cancer (aHR 2.55, 95% CI 2.47–2.63) were associated with all-cause mortality, but the strength of the association varied by cancer type.

Conclusions

Atrial fibrillation and cancer were associated bidirectionally and were increasingly coexisting, but AF risk varied by cancer type. Coexisting AF and cancer were negatively associated with survival.
Making certain that noninvasive therapy for vasovagal syncope has failed before proceeding to invasive interventions
Authors: van Dijk J Gert , Sheldon Robert , Sutton Richard
Published: April 2024

There is a perceived need to express concisely the advice of guidelines in the context of consideration of invasive management of highly symptomatic vasovagal syncope. In response to this need the table is presented as a checklist and the text adds explanation and details. It is anticipated that this will prove to be of value for clinicians.
Optimizing transseptal puncture guided by three-dimensional mapping: the role of a unipolar electrogram in a needle tip
Authors: Chen Yifan , Wu Xiaoyan , Yang Mengting , Li Zhibin , Zhou Ruya , Lin Weiqian , Zheng Cheng , Hu Youdong , Li Jin , Li Yuechun , Lin Jiafeng , Gallagher Mark M , Li Jia
Published: April 2024

Aims

A three-dimensional electroanatomic mapping system–guided transseptal puncture (3D-TSP), without fluoroscopy or echocardiography, has been only minimally reported. Indications for 3D-TSP remain unclear. Against this background, this study aims to establish a precise technique and create a workflow for validating and selecting eligible patients for fluoroless 3D-TSP.

Methods and results

We developed a new methodology for 3D-TSP based on a unipolar electrogram derived from a transseptal needle tip (UEGM tip) in 102 patients (the derivation cohort) with intracardiac echocardiography (ICE) from March 2018 to February 2019. The apparent current of injury (COI) was recorded at the muscular limbus of the foramen ovalis (FO) on the UEGM tip (sinus rhythm: 2.57 ± 0.95 mV, atrial fibrillation: 1.92 ± 0.77 mV), which then disappeared or significantly reduced at the central FO. Changes in the COI, serving as a major criterion to establish a 3D-TSP workflow, proved to be the most valuable indicator for identifying the FO in 99% (101/102) of patients compared with three previous techniques (three minor criteria) of reduction in atrial unipolar or bipolar potential and FO protrusion. A total of 99.9% (1042/1043) patients in the validation cohort underwent successful 3D-TSP through the workflow from March 2019 to July 2023. Intracardiac echocardiography guidance was required for 6.6% (69/1042) of patients. All four criteria were met in 740 patients, resulting in a 100% pure fluoroless 3D-TSP success rate.

Conclusion

In most patients, fluoroless 3D-TSP was successfully achieved using changes in the COI on the UEGM tip. Patients who met all four criteria were considered suitable for 3D-TSP, while those who met none required ICE guidance.
A high-quality genome of the convergent lady beetle, Hippodamia convergens
Authors: Ang Gavrila , Zhang Andrew , Obrycki John , Sethuraman Arun
Published: April 2024

Here, we describe a high-quality genome assembly and annotation of the convergent lady beetle, Hippodamia convergens (Coleoptera: Coccinellidae). The highest quality unmasked genome comprises 619 megabases (Mb) of chromosomal DNA, organized into 899 contigs, with a contig N50 score of 89 Mbps. The genome was assessed to be 96% complete (BUSCO). Reconstruction of a whole-genome phylogeny resolved H. convergens as sister to the Harlequin lady beetle, Harmonia axyridis, and nested within a clade of several known agricultural pests.
A draft reference genome assembly of California Pipevine, Aristolochia californica Torr.
Authors: Chaturvedi Samridhi , Escalona Merly , Marimuthu Mohan P A , Nguyen Oanh , Chumchim Noravit , Fairbairn Colin W , Seligmann William , Miller Courtney , Shaffer H Bradley , Whiteman Noah K
Published: April 2024

The California Pipevine, Aristolochia californica Torr., is the only endemic California species within the cosmopolitan birthwort family Aristolochiaceae. It occurs as an understory vine in riparian and chaparral areas and in forest edges and windrows. The geographic range of this plant species almost entirely overlaps with that of its major specialized herbivore, the California Pipevine Swallowtail Butterfly Battus philenor hirsuta. While this species pair is a useful, ecologically well-understood system to study co-evolution, until recently, genomic resources for both have been lacking. Here, we report a new, chromosome-level assembly of A. californica as part of the California Conservation Genomics Project (CCGP). Following the sequencing and assembly strategy of the CCGP, we used Pacific Biosciences HiFi long reads and Hi-C chromatin proximity sequencing technology to produce a de novo assembled genome. Our genome assembly, the first for any species in the genus, contains 531 scaffolds spanning 661 megabase (Mb) pairs, with a contig N50 of 6.53 Mb, a scaffold N50 of 42.2 Mb, and BUSCO complete score of 98%. In combination with the recently published B. philenor hirsuta reference genome assembly, the A. californica reference genome assembly will be a powerful tool for studying co-evolution in a rapidly changing California landscape.
Illegal interlocks among life science company boards of directors
Authors: Manjunath Anoop , Kahrobai Nathan , Lemley Mark A , Kumar Ishan
Published: April 2024

Competition between life science companies is critical to ensure innovative therapies are efficiently developed. Anticompetitive behavior may harm scientific progress and, ultimately, patients. One well-established category of anticompetitive behavior is the ‘interlocking directorate’. It is illegal for companies’ directors to ‘interlock’ by also serving on the boards of competitors. We evaluated overlaps in the board membership of 2,241 public life science companies since 2000. We show that a robust network of interlocking companies is present among these firms. At any given time, 10–20 percent of board members are interlocked; the number of interlocks has more than doubled in the last two decades. Over half of these interlocked firms report over $5 million in historical revenue, exceeding a legal threshold that makes an interlocking directorate a violation of antitrust law. Those interlocks are only illegal if the companies compete, even in part. Using the disease categories for which companies have sponsored clinical trials, we discover that a few markets are responsible for a large fraction of interlocks. We show that in dozens of cases, companies share directors with the very firms they identify as their biggest competitive threats. We provide a data-driven roadmap for policymakers, regulators, and companies to further investigate the contribution of anticompetitive behavior to increased healthcare costs and to enforce the law against illegal interlocks between firms.