bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Radiative decay rates for magnetic dipole (M1) and electric quadrupole (E2) transitions between low-lying levels within the 4f3 ground configuration of Pr III
Authors: Maison L , Palmeri P , Quinet P
Published: November 2024

A new set of theoretical radiative decay rates characterizing forbidden transitions in doubly charged praseodymium (Pr III) is reported in the present paper. More precisely, transition probabilities were computed for all magnetic dipole (M1) and electric quadrupole (E2) lines involving the lowest energy levels of the 4f3 ground configuration located below 20 000 cm−1 since the levels above this limit are preferentially depopulated by allowed electric dipole (E1) transitions. The calculations were carried out using different computational strategies based firstly on the pseudo-relativistic Hartree–Fock method and secondly on the fully relativistic multiconfiguration Dirac-Hartree–Fock method. The comparison between the results obtained by these independent approaches makes it possible to estimate their reliability. Comparisons with the few previously published data were also made. In addition, some astrophysical implications were deduced from the new atomic parameters computed in the present work, such as the possible presence of [Pr III] lines in the infrared spectra recorded by the James Webb Space Telescope in the context of the investigation of kilonovae in their nebular phase, i.e. several days after neutron star mergers.
First-principles calculations of permalloy thin film on SrTiO3 substrate
Authors: He JiaWei , He JiaLi , Chen Bo , Zhang YongMei
Published: November 2024

The soft-magnetic permalloy is an iron-nickel alloy with high magnetic permeability and low coercivity, widely used in both high-frequency and low-frequency magnetic devices. This study investigates the property of permalloy thin films on SrTiO3 substrates using first-principles calculations, to simulate the heterojunction of permalloy and SrTiO3, and to compute the band structure and state density. The results show that on the permalloy–SrTiO3 interface, Fe atoms exhibit slight displacements, leading to in-plane contraction and out-of-plane expansion of the film. Additionally, the lattice mismatch induced by substrate stress is 2.0%, which is within the acceptable range. Analysis of the band structure and state density reveals that substrate stress significantly affects the magnetic properties of the permalloy thin film. It increases the state density near the Fermi level, and notably changes the magnetic moment. Further analysis indicates that the 3d orbitals of iron and nickel atoms contribute most to the magnetic moments, while the peak values of 3d-state density for iron and nickel atoms remain largely unchanged before and after stress. However, the spin density undergoes significant changes. These simulation results provide theoretical data support and reference for the application of permalloy thin films in high-performance magnetic devices.
A systematic review of diagnosis methods for rolling bearing compound faults: research status, challenges, and future prospects
Authors: Li Shengqiang , Wang Huibin , Yan Changfeng , Hou Yunfeng , Wu Lixiao
Published: November 2024

Rolling bearing compound faults (RBCFs), which are one of the primary causes for unscheduled downtime of rotating machinery, are characterized by randomness, sequentiality, coupling, and concealment. Therefore, timely detecon of defects is essential to reduce downtime and ensure the safety of equipment. This paper provides a systematic review of the existing applications and developments of diagnosis methods for RBCFs since 2004. They are categorized as fault mechanism analysis methods based on analytical models, feature extraction methods based on signal processing, and pattern recognition methods based on artificial intelligence, and their diagnostic frameworks are summarized in detail. The advantages and disadvantages of the reviewed methods are concluded. The challenges and prospects for RBCF diagnosis methods are analyzed and discussed further. This work can offer valuable insights and research inspiration for academic scholars and industry engineers in diagnosing compound faults of rolling bearings.
Research on calibration method for line-structured light sensor based on spatial quadratic surface fitting
Authors: Zhu Linwei , Cheng Xiaoqi , Li Xiaosong , Tan Haishu , Chen Hujun
Published: November 2024

The calibration of the light plane serves as the fundamental prerequisite for accurate three-dimensional (3D) measurement using line-structured light sensor (LSLS). Aiming at the problem that the light plane projected by the line laser is not an ideal plane, this paper proposes an LSLS calibration method based on spatial quadratic surface fitting. In the LSLS measurement model, the standard conical quadratic surface equation is used to replace the plane equation in the traditional measurement model to solve the 3D coordinates of the light stripe. In the LSLS calibration process, the spatial standard conical quadratic surface fitting algorithm is also used to replace the traditional plane equation fitting method to achieve structural parameter calibration. The calibration experiment results based on general LSLS show that the calibration method described in this paper improves the fitting accuracy by 15.38% and the 3D measurement accuracy by 13.33% compared with the traditional calibration method based on light plane fitting. This not only provides a high-precision measurement solution for low-cost LSLS, but also enables its application in 3D measurements in the presence of lens refraction, where the improvement in accuracy may be even more significant.
Stereo digital image correlation using binocular super-resolution
Authors: Yin Zhuoyi , Yuan Fang , Tong Zixiang , He Xiaoyuan , Yang Fujun
Published: November 2024

The spatial resolution and measurement accuracy of the digital image correlation (DIC) method are constrained by camera resolution. This limitation is primarily determined by hardware costs. However, in current stereo DIC measurements, only the gray level or its gradient from two images is used for integer-pixel matching and sub-pixel optimization. It implicitly treats the two images from different viewpoints as independent entities before correlating them. However, the inherent structural information has not been fully utilized. This previously overlooked structural information provides a novel approach to enhancing the accuracy of DIC by leveraging the inherent correlations between stereo image pairs. The realization of binocular super-resolution typically requires a relatively small parallax. Moreover, the DIC method can achieve image window pairing with small parallax through pre-matching. This implies that binocular super-resolution and Stereo-DIC can complement each other by sharing information. In this paper, the DIC method is employed for whole-pixel image matching, while the binocular super-resolution method, based on deep learning, is applied to process the matched image pairs. Building on previous experiments, extensive datasets containing diverse experimental scenes and various speckle patterns were compiled and utilized. Furthermore, the DIC method can establish training datasets with minimal parallax through integer-pixel matching, thereby achieving highly effective super-resolution results. Experimental results demonstrate that super-resolution images with a higher signal-to-noise ratio can be obtained. Additionally, it effectively provides more image details, which enhance the calculation accuracy and resolution of DIC.
Strain effect on structural, electronic and optical properties of Gra/MoS2 heterobilayer
Authors: Hassan Hassan Ahmed Jaber , Kar Tim Chan , Mohd Shah Nurisya , Mohd Noor Nurfarhana , Ooi Chong Heng Raymond
Published: November 2024

Heterobilayers formed by stacking graphene and MoS2 monolayers have been successfully synthesized in the laboratory, presenting a highly promising material with versatile applications due to its flexibility and enhanced optical properties. In this study, we employ density functional theory to investigate the impact of biaxial and uniaxial strain on the structural, electronic and optical properties of Graphene/MoS2 (Gra/MoS2) heterobilayer. The unstrained Gra/MoS2 is shown to be a thermodynamically stable structure with binding energy

−
0.736

eV and a band gap of 1.899 meV, which opens at the Dirac point of graphene. Gra/MoS2 is also shown to have a better refractive index and absorption coefficient when compared to MoS2 monolayer in the visible region. Under biaxial strain, heterobilayer became unstable as the structure of both monolayers changed. The variation of biaxial strain from −4% to 4% enables tuning of the band gap within a range of 1.07–6.623 meV. The Fermi level shifted towards the conduction band under compressive strain and towards the valence band under expansive strain. Manipulation of biaxial strain also facilitates tunability in energy peaks for optical properties such as the real and imaginary parts of the dielectric function, refractive index and absorption coefficient in the visible spectrum. In contrast, uniaxial strain induces minimal changes in the overall structure and stability of the heterobilayer, resulting in a limited band gap range of 1.118–2.4 meV. Furthermore, uniaxial strain fails to introduce significant tunability in the optical properties of the heterobilayer.
Probabilistic cellular automata simulation of microstructure evolution: the role of model parameters on precision and uncertainty
Authors: Seyed-Salehi Majid
Published: November 2024

Probabilistic cellular automata (PCA) is a widely used and cost-efficient method for simulating microstructural evolution. In this method, probabilistic state change rules determine the evolution of cell states at each time step. However, its stochastic nature introduces inherent uncertainty, leading to non-repeatable results. Most microstructural simulation studies assess the accuracy of simulations by comparing predicted results with experimental observations, neglecting uncertainties in mathematical models and algorithms. In this study, the precision and stochastic behavior of microstructure evolution in the PCA simulations were investigated. The probabilities of transformations of cell states at each time step were formulated, and discrete probability distribution functions (dPDF) were introduced to analyze the frequency distribution of simulation outcomes. The performance and consistency of these dPDFs were assessed by comparing statistical analyzes of PCA simulation results with dPDF predictions, revealing that the variance of simulation results is less than that of the binomial distribution function. Additionally, the effects of modeling parameters, such as model size, cellular resolution, and probability distribution of state changes in two- and three-dimensional PCA modeling, on the precision and reliability of simulation results were studied. In PCA models, simulation uncertainty inversely relates to the square root of model size. Furthermore, in 2D simulations, uncertainty is inversely proportional to the square root of the cellular resolution, while in 3D simulations, it is inversely proportional to the cellular resolution itself. These findings provide a simple and computationally efficient method for evaluating PCA simulation uncertainty and determining optimal simulation parameters, including model size, cellular resolution, and dimensionality.
The video analysis of an unbalanced fidget spinner
Authors: de Jesus V L B , Sasaki D G G
Published: November 2024

In this work, we propose an experiment with an unbalanced spinner, where one of its six arms (or lobes) was removed. The spinner was placed on a glass table on its body (base) in initial rotation. Its movement was filmed with a smartphone camera at 240 fps (720p HD), and the video was analyzed using the free Tracker software. The main results were (i) Showing that the rotation of the spinner no longer occurs around a fixed axis that passes through its center of mass (CM) but instead around a new axis, displaced in relation to the former main symmetry axis. (ii) Characterize the spinner’s movement on the table until it comes to rest for three points: its CM, the geometric center of its cylindrical body, and an arbitrary point on the arm opposite the removed one. (iii) Obtain an estimate of the magnitude of the maximum static friction coefficient between the glass and the spinner body surface.
Rayleigh’s criterion of resolution: experimental demonstration and MATLAB simulation
Authors: Chebrolu Rajyalakshmi , Tulsani Srikanth Reddy , Voma Uday Kumar
Published: November 2024

This article presents a method for developing a low-cost apparatus to demonstrate Rayleigh’s criterion, which defines the resolution limit of optical instruments. The setup incorporates 3D-printed components, diode lasers, a circular aperture with a radius of 100 µm, and a screen. Additionally, we developed a MATLAB-based graphical user interface, enabling users to simulate and visualize diffraction patterns in both one and two dimensions. This interactive tool enhances the study of Rayleigh’s criterion by comparing simulated diffraction patterns with experimental results, offering an accessible educational approach.
Telephone training to improve ECG quality in remote screening for atrial fibrillation
Authors: Prathivadi Bhayankaram Kethaki , Mant Jonathan , Brimicombe James , Dymond Andrew , Williams Kate , Charlton Peter H ,   on behalf of the SAFER authorship group
Published: November 2024

Objective. Self-recorded, single-lead electrocardiograms (ECGs) are increasingly used to diagnose arrhythmias. However, they can be of variable quality, affecting the reliability of interpretation. In this analysis of ECGs collected in atrial fibrillation screening studies, our aims were to: (i) determine the quality of ECGs when recorded unsupervised; and (ii) investigate whether telephone training improved ECG quality. Approach. Data was obtained from the Screening for Atrial Fibrillation with ECG to Reduce stroke programme, where participants recorded four single-lead ECG traces per day for three weeks using a handheld device. ECG quality was assessed by an automated algorithm, and participants who recorded >25% poor-quality ECGs from days 4–10 of screening were identified for training to improve ECG recording technique. Training was delivered when research team capacity permitted. Main results. 13 741 participants recorded 1127 264 ECGs, of which 41 288 (3.7%) were poor-quality. Most participants (51.5%) did not record any poor-quality ECGs. 1,088 (7.9%) participants met the threshold for training. Of these, 165 participants received training and 923 did not. The median proportion of poor-quality ECGs per participant on days 1–3 was 41.7 (27.3–50.0)% for those who received training and 33.3 (25.0–45.5)% for those who did not. On days 11–21, the median proportions of poor-quality ECGs per participant were significantly lower (p < 0.001) for those who received training, 17.8 (5.0–31.6)%, and those who did not, 14.0 (4.8–30.2)%. Comparing these groups, the mean (95% confidence interval) reduction in proportion of poor-quality ECGs from days 1–3 to days 11–21 was 20.2 (16.8–23.5)% in those who received training and 16.0 (14.7–17.3)% in those who did not (p = 0.396). Significance. Most participants achieved adequate quality ECGs. For those that did not, ECG quality improved over time regardless of whether they received telephone training. Telephone training may therefore not be required to achieve improvements in ECG quality during screening.
Pumping of matter wave solitons in one-dimensional optical superlattices
Authors: Hu Xiaoxiao , Li Zhiqiang , Chen Ai-Xi , Luo Xiaobing
Published: November 2024

We study the pumping of matter-wave solitons formed in Bose–Einstein condensates with attractive atomic interactions that are loaded into optical superlattices, in which one of the lattices is moving with respect to the other. We find that the matter-wave solitons exhibit lattice-parameter-dependent nonlinear integer (fractional) pumping and trapping. Different from the perspective of linear band Chern numbers, treating solitons as effective classical particles provides a good understanding of the quantized pumping or trapping. This reveals an unexpected insight: the nonlinear adiabatic pumping may be classical, and the quantization may be accidental, as dictated by the spatial period of the sliding sublattice. This alternative perspective on understanding soliton pumping highlights the parameter-dependent transition between soliton quantized pumping and trapping, and it exposes the nonlinear transition from a trapped soliton to a pumped soliton with increasing nonlinearity, which has never been reported before.
Geometric phases arising from strong measurements of weak values
Authors: Montenegro C , Jara M , Marrou J P , De Zela F
Published: November 2024

Geometric phases and weak values (WVs) are two fundamental concepts that were originally introduced in the realm of quantum mechanics. In the course of time, it became clear that the two concepts apply in both the quantum domain and the classical domain. Moreover, the two concepts proved to be intimately connected with one another, as disclosed by Sjöqvist some years ago (Sjöqvist 2006 Phys. Lett. A 359 187). WVs were so named in reference to very weak couplings between a system’s observable, e.g. light polarization, and its measuring device, the ‘pointer’. However, the actual definition of WVs does not involve the system-pointer coupling strength. We have addressed the strong coupling regime both theoretically and experimentally, thereby obtaining geometric phases out of WVs. We report experimental results as a proof-of-concept, using classical light beams and single-shot images. Our approach applies without essential modifications also to single photons.
High-dimensional robust regression under heavy-tailed data: asymptotics and universality
Authors: Adomaityte Urte , Defilippis Leonardo , Loureiro Bruno , Sicuro Gabriele
Published: November 2024

We investigate the high-dimensional properties of robust regression estimators in the presence of heavy-tailed contamination of both the covariates and response functions. In particular, we provide a sharp asymptotic characterisation of M-estimators trained on a family of elliptical covariate and noise data distributions including cases where second and higher moments do not exist. We show that, despite being consistent, the Huber loss with optimally tuned location parameter δ is suboptimal in the high-dimensional regime in the presence of heavy-tailed noise, highlighting the necessity of further regularisation to achieve optimal performance. This result also uncovers the existence of a transition in δ as a function of the sample complexity and contamination. Moreover, we derive the decay rates for the excess risk of ridge regression. We show that, while it is both optimal and universal for covariate distributions with finite second moment, its decay rate can be considerably faster when the covariates’ second moment does not exist. Finally, we show that our formulas readily generalise to a richer family of models and data distributions, such as generalised linear estimation with arbitrary convex regularisation trained on mixture models.
Comparative analysis of environmental footprints: conventional versus high-strength concrete in construction
Authors: Rajagopal M.R. , Pamu Yashwanth , Anusha Indrakanti
Published: November 2024

This paper presents a comparative analysis of the environmental footprints associated with conventional and high-strength concrete in the construction industry. As sustainability becomes increasingly critical in construction practices, understanding the environmental impacts of various concrete types is essential. The study employs a comprehensive methodology to assess key environmental factors, including carbon footprint, energy consumption, water usage, and waste generation, for both conventional and high-strength concrete. Data collection and analysis reveal significant differences between the two concrete types in terms of their environmental impacts. Findings indicate that while high-strength concrete offers enhanced structural performance, it tends to have higher environmental costs compared to conventional concrete. The paper discusses the implications of these findings for sustainable construction practices and emphasizes the importance of informed material selection decisions in reducing the environmental footprint of construction projects.
Exploring the role of green intrinsic motivation in predicting ecological automobile use: the mediating role of green self-efficacy within the framework of theory of planned behaviour
Authors: Singh Suyesha , Nambiar Vaishnavi
Published: November 2024

The increasing rate of climate change and the exhaustion of natural resources have caused sustainability to be of paramount importance across the globe. The transportation industry is one of the most important sectors that impacts the environment through greenhouse gas emissions and other pollutants produced by traditional vehicles. In response to these environmental problems, there has been an increased effort to promote green transportation alternatives such as electric vehicles and carpooling, which can help mitigate the adverse effects of commuting and travel. Previous literature has demonstrated that the intention of individuals to engage in green behaviors is affected by various factors, such as their personal motivation to create a positive change in their environment. However, the green behavior of different segments of the population needs to be further scrutinized to comprehend its prevalence and the resulting consequences. This paper aimed to understand the effect of green intrinsic motivation on ecological automobile use and the mediating role of green self-efficacy among middle-aged individuals using the theory of planned behavior. Findings show that green intrinsic motivation has a positive relationship with and predicts ecological automobile use among middle-aged individuals. Green self-efficacy mediates the relationship between green intrinsic motivation and ecological automobile use. Through discovering the psychological dynamics of establishing eco-friendly transport habits among this group, this study aims to provide effective solutions to design interventions and policies that would encourage green travel behavior. This understanding has significance for policymakers, who can use the findings of the study to frame interventions and policies promoting eco-friendly transportation alternatives.
Biomass recovery and wastewater treatment in shrimp aquaculture: A comparative study on the performance of HRAPS and PMBR
Authors: Hang Doan Thi Thu , Dat Truong Tan , Nghi Duong Ngoc , Nhu Nham Hai , Nam Le Hoai , Phuong Tran Thi Bich , Trung Le Duc , Tran Thanh
Published: November 2024

In this study, the utilization of Chlorella vulgaris microalgae for shrimp aquaculture wastewater treatment was explored through two photosynthetic systems: High-Rate Algae Ponds (HRAPs) and Membrane Photobioreactors (PMBR). The application of microalgae and bacteria in shrimp wastewater treatment in both systems exhibited good treatment efficiency, with effective removal rates of COD, N-NO3-, N-NO2-, N-NH4+, TN, and P-PO43- reaching 27.4%, 58.7%, -35%, 92.2%, 77%, and 93.5% respectively in the HRAPs model, and 29.7%, 24.5%, 26%, 83.9%, 75%, and 93.4% respectively in the PMBR model. Both models demonstrated similar capabilities in COD and P-PO43- removal. However, HRAPs showed higher efficiency in N-NO3- removal compared to PMBR, whereas PMBR was more effective in N-NO2- removal. Regarding daily biomass recovery, HRAPs achieved 5474 mg/day compared to PMBR, which reached 7265 mg/day, indicating a higher biomass recovery capability of PMBR over HRAPs. These results unveil the potential application of microalgae in shrimp aquaculture wastewater treatment, providing a comprehensive insight into the performance and advantages of each system in wastewater treatment and biomass recovery.
Investigating alkali-activated concrete with recycled aggregate substitution in experimental research
Authors: Sridhar B. , Sastri M.V.S.S.
Published: November 2024

In the present experimental investigation, a constant (optimum) percentage of GGBFS and fly ash in Alkali activated concrete (AAC) of M40 grade equivalent concrete. The natural aggregates are incorporated at percentages of 0.5 and 1.0 in the AAC composition. The studies indicate that Fly ash AAC demonstrates lower strength due to the necessity of heat curing for proper development, while the inclusion of Recycled Concrete Aggregate (RCA) leads to decreased compressive, split tensile, and flexural strengths, indicating a detrimental effect on mechanical properties. Despite slightly improved performance with 100% RCA content, it remains inferior to natural aggregates, attributed to adhered cement mortar potentially enhancing strength properties, which shows the need for further research to optimize mix designs and fully exploit the benefits of these alternative materials in AAC production.
Seismic isolation of liquefied natural gas storage tanks using quintuple friction pendulum system (QTFP)
Authors: Vyas Vipul H. , Panchal V. R. , Soni D. P.
Published: November 2024

The current study explores the dynamic behaviour of a compressed (liquefied) natural gas tanks (LNG) that is separated utilizing a Quintuple Friction pendulum (QTFP) device. This is done by evaluating different earth-quake motions happening along fault lines. The main objective of this investigation is to enhance the dynamic adaption of isolated Liquefied Natural Gas Tanks by the application of QTFP. A numerical model has been developed using the equations of motion to simulate the reaction of the LNG tanks to seismic excitations. A non-linear dynamic study using the Newmark-Beta approach has been conducted to compare the results of isolated and uncontrolled LNG Tanks. The simulation modelling technique has been carried through utilizing MATLAB Simulink to analyze the efficacy of the LNG Storage tanks. The investigation evaluated the tank’s displacement, acceleration, velocity, frequency characteristics, and base shear of the LNG tank. The findings reveal that the separation of Liquefied Natural Gas (LNG) through QTFP is successful when exposed to different seismic excitations, in contrast to uncontrolled LNG tanks. Seismic isolation improves LNG storage tank sustainability. These solutions limit seismic structural damage and leakage, decreasing risks to nearby ecosystems and populations. Thus, LNG storage facilities with seismic isolation technologies provide energy infrastructure sustainability, safety, and resilience.
Mechanical performance and co2 footprint analysis: recycled aggregate polypropylene geopolymer concrete compared with conventional concrete
Authors: Prasanthi Petluru , Rayabharapu Vijay Kumar , Rao Samanasa Krishna , Supraja Ambati , Vamshi Panthula
Published: November 2024

Geopolymer concrete (GPC) has gained significant awareness in recent years as an eco-friendly alternative to conventional concrete due to its lower CO2 emissions and utilization of industrial waste materials. The cementitious material fly ash (FA), GGBS, silica fume (SF) with incorporation of polypropylene fiber (PF), recycled aggregates (RA) further promote the strength properties of geopolymer concrete, particularly in terms of ductility and crack resistance. Exploratory tests been conducted to assess the effects of various parameters including activator type, curing conditions, fiber content, and aggregate characteristics on the mechanical behaviour and CO2 emissions of geopolymer concrete (GPC). The mechanical performance aspects like as compressive strength(45.7Mpa), flexural strength(4.78Mpa), and split tensile strength(4.12Mpa) were attain by optimum mix design GPC-FG where cement substituted with ratio of FA:GGBS:SF - 40:50:10 and compressive strength(50.4Mpa), flexural strength(5.51Mpa) and split tensile strength(4.99Mpa) were attain by optimum mix design of Polypropylene based GPC-FGP where cement substituted with ratio of FA:GGBS:SF:PF - 40:49:10:1. The optimal mix design GPC-FG and GPC-FGP are compared there is raise in compressive strength of 9.325%, flexural strength of 13.241%,split tensile strength 17.434% of GPC-FGP, along with CO2 of polypropylene fiber-based geopolymer concrete with recycled aggregates as shown 60.01% reduction of CO2 when compared with traditional concrete. The results demonstrate the potential of geopolymer concrete to achieve comparable or superior mechanical performance while significantly reducing CO2 emissions compared to conventional concrete. This research adds to sustainable construction knowledge by showcasing geopolymer concrete’s environmental benefits, mechanical strength, and potential applications in the industry and infrastructure development.
Study on strength and durability characteristics of geopolymer fly ash sand
Authors: Sudam Pupalwad Arti , Srinivas K. , Ankitha V. , Nihalini Ch. , Suresh Y.N.S. , Battini Chinmay
Published: November 2024

As the construction industry undergoes rapid growth, the deteriorating reserves of river sand have emerged as a critical issue, given its essential role in construction activities. The extraction of sand exacerbates this problem, leading to adverse consequences such as riverbank erosion, harm to aquatic ecosystems, and a decline in the water table. To sustain the construction sector, there is an urgent need for alternative sustainable granular materials. However, the durability characteristics of these substitutes in civil engineering applications remain uncertain. This research focuses on developing alternative sustainable granular materials to replace fine aggregates traditionally sourced from river sand. The study aims to demonstrate the preparation of new sustainable granular material using fly ash and compare its properties with those of river sand (RS), highlighting their significance and practical applications in civil engineering. The synthesized artificial fly ash sands are examined extensively for their physical properties (such as specific gravity, water absorption, specific surface area (SSA), and particle size distribution), chemical properties [including pH, electrical conductivity (EC), and total dissolved solids (TDS)], engineering properties [like cohesion (C), angle of shearing resistance(Φ), compression strength, and hydraulic conductivity], and durability properties [covering leaching, lime reactivity, and turbidity]. The previous research experiments have demonstrated that the results of this study hold significant value for professionals in the industry, as well as for academics and researchers. The synthesized geopolymer sand showed a similar strength compared to river sand. Moreover, these findings strengthen the feasibility of utilizing synthetic alternatives to river sand across a range of civil engineering applications.
SCGB1D4 downregulation links to fibrosis in intrauterine adhesion patients and rat models
Authors: Zhao Jing , Wang Yuanhui , Ma Chanchan , Feng Yifan , Wang Yunmeng , Sun Shiying
Published: November 2024

Intrauterine adhesions (IUA) represent a prevalent uterine endometrial disorder frequently correlated with menstrual irregularities and infertility. Some members of the secretoglobin(SCGB) family have demonstrated anti-fibrotic effects, however, the specific role of SCGB1D4, one of the family members, in anti-fibrosis remains unclear. This study aimed to investigate the expression of SCGB1D4 in IUA tissues, validate the role of SCGB1D4 in endometrial fibrosis, and assess its potential therapeutic significance by analyzing clinical features and constructing rat and cell models. Clinical characteristics of patients with intrauterine adhesions (IUA) were compared and analyzed against control subjects. Additionally, a rat uterine adhesion model was successfully established using a combination of mechanical injury and infection. The expression levels of SCGB1D4 in patient tissues and animal models were detected through immunohistochemistry, Western blot, and real-time fluorescence quantitative PCR, and the changes in fibrosis markers COL1A1 and α-SMA were also evaluated. Furthermore, human endometrial stromal cell lines (HESCs) induced by transforming growth factor-β-1 conversion were differentiated into myofibroblasts to establish cell models of intrauterine adhesion. We detected the expression of SCGB1D4 and fibrosis-related factors by real-time fluorescence quantitative PCR and Western blot. Cell proliferation and cell cycle changes were assessed using flow cytometry and CCK8. IUA patients showed increased miscarriage rates and decreased endometrial thickness. Clinical tissue specimens revealed significantly lower expression of SCGB1D4 in the endometrial tissues of IUA patients, accompanied by a notable increase in COL1A1 and α-SMA. The established rat model of intrauterine adhesion exhibited decreased expression of SCGB1D4 and a significant increase in fibrosis. After overexpression of SCGB1D4 on the IUA cell model, SCGB1D4 expression was elevated, while COL1A1 and α-SMA expression was significantly reduced. Cell proliferation was inhibited and cell cycle distribution was altered. This study has confirmed the low expression of SCGB1D4 in patients with IUA, as well as in animal and cell models. Furthermore, the overexpression of SCGB1D4 in a cell model of IUA demonstrates that it may play a key role in inhibiting fibrosis. SCGB1D4 holds promise as a potential therapeutic target for IUA, providing a new avenue for overcoming fertility issues caused by IUA.
Optimal Annual COVID-19 Vaccine Boosting Dates Following Previous Booster Vaccination or Breakthrough Infection
Authors: Townsend Jeffrey P , Hassler Hayley B , Dornburg Alex
Published: November 2024

Background

COVID-19 booster vaccinations mitigate transmission and reduce the morbidity and mortality associated with infection. However, the optimal date for booster administration remains uncertain. Geographic variation in infection rates throughout the year makes it challenging to intuit the best yearly booster administration date to effectively prevent infection, and also challenging to provide best guidance on how to alter booster administration in response to a breakthrough infection.

Methods

We leveraged longitudinal antibody and reinfection probabilities with spatiotemporal projections of COVID-19 incidence to develop a geographically informed approach to optimizing the timing of booster vaccination. We assessed the delay in booster vaccination that is warranted following breakthrough infections whenever they occur during the year, enabling a personalized assessment of optimal timing that acknowledges and respects diversity of COVID-19 immune status, addressing a substantial barrier to uptake.

Results

Yearly booster vaccination on any date is beneficial to prevention of infection. However, each location exhibits as much as a 3–4-fold range in degree of protection by date of uptake. Optimal COVID-19 booster vaccination dates are location-specific, typically in early autumn in the Northern Hemisphere. Infection late in the interval between boosts substantially alters the optimal boosting date.

Conclusions

Considerable benefit accrues from aptly timing COVID-19 booster vaccination campaigns, which can be tailored to specific locations. Individuals can acquire the greatest benefit from booster vaccination by timing it optimally, including delaying in cases of infection late in the interval between boosts. These results provide location-specific guidance for public health policy, healthcare provider recommendations, and individual decision-making.
Temporal trend and attributable risk factors of cardiovascular disease burden for adults 55 years and older in 204 countries/territories from 1990 to 2021: an analysis for the Global Burden of Disease Study 2021
Authors: Wang Ming-si , Deng Jing-wen , Geng Wan-yue , Zheng Rui , Xu Hui-lin , Dong Ying , Huang Wei-dong , Li Yi-lan
Published: November 2024

Aims

The ageing global population and overall population growth have significantly increased the burden of cardiovascular diseases (CVDs). This study aims to examine global temporal trends in the incidence, disability-adjusted life years (DALYs), and mortality rates of both overall and type-specific CVDs among adults aged 55 and older from 1990 to 2021, with a focus on identifying changes over time, regional disparities, and the key risk factors contributing to this burden.

Methods and results

We analysed data from the Global Burden of Disease Study 2021, covering 204 countries and territories. Trends in age-standardized rates of incidence, DALY, and mortality for both overall and specific types of CVDs were assessed, alongside the impact of key risk factors. Between 1990 and 2021, global age-standardized incidence, DALY, and mortality rates showed a declining trend, with estimated annual percentage changes of −0.39, −1.30, and −1.11, respectively. However, due to overall population growth and ageing, the absolute number of CVD cases continued to rise. Regions with high–middle socio-demographic index (SDI) exhibited the highest incidence and mortality rates, while high SDI regions saw the greatest declines. Men had higher age-standardized rates of CVD incidence, DALY, and mortality compared with women. The burden increased with age, with the oldest age groups (80+ years) showing the highest rates. High systolic blood pressure was the leading modifiable risk factor, contributing to more than half of the CVD-related DALY globally. Other major risk factors included high LDL cholesterol, smoking, and ambient particulate matter pollution.

Conclusion

While age-standardized rates of CVD incidence, DALY, and mortality have declined over the past three decades, the total burden of CVDs continues to rise due to population ageing and growth. These findings highlight the need for targeted prevention strategies in regions with high CVD burden, particularly those with lower socioeconomic status.
Association between folate deficiency and hypertension: evidence from an observational and Mendelian randomization study
Authors: Zhang Yanyu , Gao Darui , Liang Jie , Ji Mengmeng , Zhang Wenya , Pan Yang , Zheng Fanfan , Xie Wuxiang
Published: November 2024

Aims

Although folate intake might affect hypertension risk, evidence about the risk of hypertension according to an individual’s folate deficiency status is scarce. Therefore, we aimed to investigate the relationship between folate deficiency and hypertension, and their causal associations.

Methods and results

A cross-sectional and prospective cohort study was performed in the UK Biobank (UKB) to investigate the associations between folate deficiency and hypertension prevalence and incidence, using logistic regression and Cox proportional hazard regression, respectively. Subsequently, we conducted one-sample Mendelian randomization (MR) with individual-level data from the UKB to further validate their causal associations. Finally, two-sample MR analyses were applied using summary-level data to further assess the causal relationships of serum folate with blood pressure (BP) and hypertension. In a total of up to 219 089 participants free of hypertension at enrolment, 17 670 participants developed hypertension after a median of 12.8 years of follow-up. Compared with participants without folate deficiency, those with folate deficiency had a higher risk of hypertension (HR = 1.42, 95% CI = 1.24–1.63). One-sample MR analysis in the UKB provided supportive evidence for a causal effect of folate deficiency on hypertension risk (odds ratio for the highest quantile = 1.07, 95% CI = 1.04–1.10, Ptrend < 0.001). Furthermore, two-sample MR also supported a protective effect of higher levels of serum folate on BP (for systolic BP: β = −2.313, 95% CI = −3.532, −1.094; for diastolic BP: β = −1.648, 95% CI = −3.085, −0.211) and hypertension (β = −0.049, 95% CI = −0.069, −0.029).

Conclusion

Observational and genetically determined folate deficiency were associated with hypertension, suggesting that folate deficiency might be a causal risk factor for hypertension.
Understanding factors influencing the use of specialized outdoor fitness equipment among older adults in Australia
Authors: Paudel Chahana , Timperio Anna , Loh Venurs , Salmon Jo , Deforche Benedicte , Veitch Jenny
Published: November 2024

This study assessed the use of newly installed outdoor fitness equipment (OFE) designed for older adults in two urban parks in Melbourne, Australia, and explored barriers and facilitators to its use among older adults. Direct observations were conducted using System for Observing Play and Recreation in Communities (SOPARC) to assess OFE usage by older adults (≥60 years) at two time points: T1 (November 2021) and T2 (October 2022). Additionally, 140 older adults (60–86 years, 59.3% female) were interviewed at T2 to explore their perceptions of OFE. Across both parks and timepoints, OFE usage by older adults was minimal. At T1, only 0.7% of older park visitors at Park A were observed using the OFE, while no visitors at Park B were observed using it. At T2, 2.8% and 0.7% of older adults at Parks A and B, respectively, were observed using the OFE. Interviews revealed various barriers to OFE usage, including personal factors (health concerns and time constraints), lack of knowledge about the equipment, perceptions about equipment suitability, and crowding by children. Facilitators for enhancing use of OFE included promotional efforts, instructional classes, improved equipment design and encouraging social engagement. Given the minimal usage of OFE by older adults identified in this study, addressing barriers and leveraging facilitators are essential to maximize the return on public investment, promote active ageing and foster improved overall well-being among older adults.
Recruitment of chromatin remodelers by XIST B-repeat region is variably dependent on HNRNPK
Authors: Navarro-Cobos Maria Jose , Brown Carolyn J
Published: November 2024

X-chromosome inactivation is triggered by the long non-coding RNA XIST, whose structure is characterized by tandem repeats that modularly recruit different proteins and chromatin remodelers. Previously, we reported that the addition of the mouse PID region to a transgene with human repeat regions A, F and E (miniXIST; 5.1 kb) enabled binding of HNRNPK and also enabled the induction of silencing and recruitment of H3K27me3, UbH2A and H4K20me1, but only partially. As the 680 bp PID region enabled so many features of inactivation, we hypothesized that augmenting the PID with more mouse or human sequences rich in CCC motifs would allow us to design a short transgene which was as effective as Full XIST. Three new transgenes using the A, F and E human domains as a backbone were tested for ability to induce silencing and heterochromatic mark recruitment. The all human-derived BhB-BhB transgene (4.9 kb) was as good as our previous miniXIST, suggesting that these domains are the human equivalent of the mouse PID region. A PID-PID transgene (5.8 kb) was not statistically different from Full XIST and could be potentially used for chromosome therapy. Adding BhB to PID (BhB-PID, 5.4 kb) had an intermediate efficacy compared to the other two transgenes, suggesting that the most important component for silencing and heterochromatic mark recruitment is the number of CCC motifs, not the species of origin. Finally, we created a heterozygous HNRNPK deletion and observed a disproportionate impact on HNRNPK and UbH2A recruitment to XIST, reflecting complex roles for the PID and HNRNPK in X-chromosome inactivation.
Genomic Analysis of Global Mycobacterium abscessus Isolates Reveals Ongoing Evolution of Drug Resistance–Associated Genes
Authors: Yang Tingting , Beach Kylie E , Zhu Chendi , Gan Mingyu , Wang Wenli , Zhou Hongjuan , Peng Lijun , Wang Shanshan , Cai Long , Li Weimin , Davis Jordan B , Cicchetti Nico , Slechta E Susan , Barker Adam , Shakir Salika M , Carey Allison F , Liu Qingyun
Published: November 2024

Mycobacterium abscessus (MAB) is intrinsically resistant to many antibiotics, but the evolution of acquired drug resistance is poorly understood. We analyzed published genomes of 5617 clinical MAB isolates from 20 countries and searched for signals of ongoing evolution in 35 drug resistance–associated genes. Of these, we found 14 genes that were subject to positive selection, and we identified novel mutational sites under selection. Among these, the erm(41) V80I mutation arose exclusively in strains with erm(41) 28T and affected 50.5% (1750/3465) of subsp abscessus isolates. The study provided evidence that MAB is evolving mutations in drug resistance–associated genes, and further research is needed to understand the functional consequences of these mutations.
Identification and Characterization of Ectoparasite-Borne Pathogens Through Vector and Animal Surveillance in Andean Countries, South America
Authors: Flores-Mendoza Carmen , Silva Maria , Domínguez Lillian , Bermúdez Sergio , Vásquez Gissella M
Published: November 2024

Infectious diseases transmitted by ectoparasites such as fleas, lice, mites, and ticks constitute a global public health problem. Tick-borne diseases are the most widely studied emerging ectoparasite-borne diseases (EBD) mainly due to their increasing incidence worldwide, including in South America. Furthermore, in Peru and neighboring Andean countries (Bolivia, Colombia, and Ecuador), surveillance reports indicate that Rickettsia species appear to be the most diverse and widely distributed ectoparasite-borne pathogens (EBP) followed by Babesia species, and with fewer species of Anaplasma, Bartonella, Borrelia, Ehrlichia, Coxiella, and Phlebovirus pathogens. Amblyomma, Dermacentor, Rhipicephalus, and Ixodes ticks were reported as the most predominant ectoparasites found infected with a diversity of EBP belonging to Rickettsia, Babesia, Anaplasma, Bartonella, and Ehrlichia species. Overall, people living in rural areas where agriculture and livestock production are their main economic means are at higher risk of EBD.
Toward understanding grapevine responses to climate change: a multi-stress and holistic approach
Authors: Martínez-Lüscher Johann , Matus José Tomás , Gomès Eric , Pascual Inmaculada
Published: November 2024

Recent research has extensively covered the effects of climate change factors, such as elevated CO2, rising temperatures, and water deficit on grapevine (Vitis spp.) biology. However, assessing the impacts of multiple climate change-related stresses on this crop remains complex due to interactive effects among environmental factors, and the regulatory mechanisms that underlie these. Consequently, there is a substantial discrepancy between the number of studies conducted with a single factor or two factors simultaneously, and those with a more holistic approach. Changes in crop phenology in response to temperature have been a major focus of many studies. We highlight how the impact of rising temperatures will be enhanced during specific developmental periods, such as grape ripening. However, how these shifts may result in deleterious effects on yield and quality deserves further research. Rising temperatures will most certainly continue to represent a substantial threat to viticulture due to its effects on grape phenology, composition, and crop water requirements. Nevertheless, elevated CO2 may offer some relief through increased water use efficiency, as shown in recent studies. Hormones play a major role within the repertoire of regulatory mechanisms that plants possess, with crosstalk between hormones explaining the effects of combined stresses. In fact, growth regulators can fine-tune stress responses depending on the multiple stresses present. This review focuses on the interaction of climate change factors across viticultural areas of the globe, and how multi-stress responses are mediated by abscisic acid and jasmonate, with emphasis on the intricate interconnections of signalling among different plant hormones.