bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Multi-timescale Scheme for Cooperative User Association and Hybrid Beamforming in mmWave MIMO Systems
Authors: Heydarian Mohammadreza , Colle Didier , Pickavet Mario , Tavernier Wouter
Published: September 2024

Hybrid beamforming has received significant attention as a solution to the thermal issues, costs, and implementation complexities associated with fully digital mmWave Extremely Large MIMO (XL-MIMO) systems. The Hybrid approach offers a balance between system flexibility and performance. However, even with optimal beamforming techniques, having a large number of User Equipments (UEs), if the data rate is not effectively shared among them, the overall network delay and throughput will remain unsatisfactory. Considering multiple temporal characteristics of an indoor wireless channel, we propose a multi-layer scheme to optimize resource allocation to the UEs in a cooperative multi-Base Station (BS) setup. We studied the performance of different resource allocation techniques to share the bandwidth effectively among UEs, rather than merely maximizing the total downlink bitrate. Our findings indicate that queue length-based allocation strategies yield the lowest delay under different downlink traffics and UE/BS deployment densities. Moreover, instead of serving all UEs simultaneously in each channel block, selectively serving a subset of UEs at each interval significantly enhances network delay and throughput. To further improve resource utilization and overall performance, we introduce an extension called sub-coherence time allocation. This technique considers early downlink queue exhaustion and speculatively calculates multiple digital precoders to be activated sequentially within a channel block. Simulation results demonstrate that this approach improves delay and jitter with minimal computational overhead, achieving a 25\% and 15\% decrease in digital and hybrid modes respectively.
Telepresence Robot Design in the Amazon: An Application of Design for Manufacturing and Assembly (DFMA)
Authors: Pereira Ingrid Marina Pinto , de Oliveira Marcelo Albuquerque , Verenoze Gabriela de Mattos , Alves Antonio do Nascimento Silva , Santos Marcos Dantas dos
Published: September 2024

This work aims to present a proposal for a telepresence robot designed for application in the Amazon region, where remote access areas are concentrated. To achieve this goal, an approach that integrates the steps of DFMA (Design for Manufacturing and Assembly) and 3D modeling combined with Additive Manufacturing (AM) is employed. Considering the key characteristics of the region, the objective is to offer a regional solution focused on mobility and interaction to facilitate use. In this study, the main difficulties faced by the population in the region in their daily lives regarding access to healthcare were highlighted. As a result, evidence was obtained of the use of outside methodologies combined with a reduction of approximately 78% in the quantity of project components and parts. Therefore, the importance of developing technologies aimed at addressing this need or driving studies for connectivity in the state of Amazonas is emphasized.
Germ cell depletion using HSV-TK in mouse testes
Authors: Watanabe Toshiaki , Dollet Constance , Shindo Miyuki , Takahashi Shun , Eto Tomoo
Published: September 2024

Germ cell transplantation is useful for the study of male germ cells and the generation of genetically modified animals. For transplantation, germ cell-free hosts generated using anticancer drug treatment, irradiation exposure, or genetic mutation are required. In this study, we aimed to develop a new system for germ cell depletion, more in compliance with the “3R” principles. For this purpose, we generated knock-in mice expressing a subtype of the herpes simplex virus type 1 thymidine kinase (HSV-TK30), reported to not induce infertility, unlike the original HSV-TK gene. Ganciclovir injection resulted in nearly complete abrogation of spermatogenesis. Furthermore, transplanted spermatogonial stem cells were differentiated into sperm in the host testes, and they gave rise to offspring. Therefore, the mice developed in this study enable the efficient removal of germ cells for germ cell transplantation in a manner more compliant with the 3R principles.
Mapping Glioma Progression: Single-Cell RNA Sequencing Illuminates Cell-Cell Interactions and Immune Response Variability
Authors: Li Xia , Chen Shenbo , Ding Ming , Ding Hui , Yang Kun
Published: September 2024

Background: Glioma, the most common primary tumor of the central nervous system, is marked by significant heterogeneity, presenting major challenges for therapeutic approaches and prognostic evaluations. This study explores the interactions between malignant glioma cells and macrophages/monocytes and their influence on tumor progression and treatment responses, using comprehensive single-cell RNA sequencing analysis.
Methods: We integrated RNA-seq data from the TCGA and CGGA databases and performed an in-depth analysis of glioma samples using single-cell RNA sequencing, functional enrichment analysis, developmental trajectory analysis, cell-cell communication analysis, and gene regulatory network analysis. Furthermore, we developed a prognostic model based on risk scores and assessed its predictive performance through immune cell infiltration analysis and evaluation of immune treatment responses.
Results: We identified 14 distinct glioma cellular subpopulations and 7 primary cell types, alongside 4 macrophage/monocyte subtypes. Developmental trajectory analysis provided insights into the origins and heterogeneity of both malignant cells and macrophages/monocytes. Cell communication analysis revealed that macrophages and monocytes interact with malignant cells through several pathways, including the MIF (Macrophage Migration Inhibitory Factor) and SPP1 (Secreted Phosphoprotein 1) pathways, engaging in key ligand-receptor interactions that influence tumor behavior. Stratification based on these communication characteristics showed a significant correlation with overall survival (OS). Additionally, immune cell infiltration analysis highlighted variations in immune cell abundance across different subgroups, which may be linked to differing responses to immunotherapy. Our predictive model, consisting of 29 prognostic genes, demonstrated high accuracy and robustness across multiple independent cohorts.
Conclusion: This study unveils the intricate heterogeneity of the glioma microenvironment, enhancing our understanding of the diverse characteristics of glioma cell subpopulations. It also lays the groundwork for the development of therapeutic strategies and prognostic models that specifically target the glioma microenvironment.
Cell membrane mechanics using a simple to fabricate microwell chip and deep learning-assisted automated AFM analysis
Authors: Hallfors Nicholas , Lamprou Charalampos , Luo Shaohong , Alkhatib Sara Awni , Sapudom Jiranuwat , Aubry Cyril , Alhammadi Jawaher , Chan Vincent , Stefanini Cesare , Teo Jeremy , Hadjileontiadis Leontios , Pappa Anna Maria
Published: September 2024

Atomic Force Microscopy (AFM) being inherently slow and analysis heavy, becomes challenging for scaling up. Addressing this, we take a two-fold approach; first we introduce an easy-to-fabricate reusable poly(dimethylsiloxane)-based array that consists of micron-sized traps for single-cell trapping and second, we apply a deep-learning method directly on the extracted curves to facilitate and automate the analysis. Our approach is validated using suspended cells which often require specific holders or adhesive molecules due to their tendency to slip from the surface. Using nanoindentation, cell cortex stiffness alterations, under the influence of three different drugs that inhibit myosin activity, are revealed. We then apply machine learning models to extract membrane stiffness directly from the raw data as well for binary (presence/absence of drugs) and multiclass classification (different drug types). The proposed analysis resulted in a Coefficient of Determination of 0.47 for the regression problem while for the binary and multiclass classification the analysis resulted in an Area Under the Curve score of 0.91 and accuracy scores exceeding 0.9 respectively, for each individual drug class. Overall, the versatility to fabricate the microwells in conjunction with the automated analysis and classification could find wide-range applications spanning from to basic cell-based assays to drug screening.
Integrating GIS and AHP for Drought Sensitivity Assessment in the Middle Moulouya and Guercif Basins, Morocco
Authors: ELYAGOUBI Said , MEZRHAB Abdelhamid
Published: September 2024

Drought sensitivity assessments play a critical role in understanding and mitigating risks associated with this phenomenon. This study presents a novel approach for comprehensive drought vulnerability mapping in the Middle Moulouya and Guercif Basins, Morocco. We leverage a multi-criteria framework integrating Geographic Information Systems (GIS) and the Analytic Hierarchy Process (AHP), focusing on three key dimensions: climatic sensitivity, soil sensitivity, and socioeconomic sensitivity. Beyond traditional factors: We expanded the analysis beyond basic climatic data by incorporating future climate projections to estimate drought risk under different scenarios, thereby allowing for more future-proof vulnerability assessments. Soil health matter: Soil moisture content and infiltration capacity were incorporated into the soil sensitivity assessment, provide a more comprehensive picture of soil susceptibility to drought. Socioeconomic considerations: socioeconomic sensitivity analysis goes beyond population density to consider factors such as water resource dependence, agricultural practices, and livelihood diversification. This holistic approach provides a deeper understanding of societal vulnerability to droughts. AHP for informed weighting: AHP facilitates the incorporation of expert knowledge and data analysis by assigning weights to each sub-criterion in three dimensions. This ensured a robust weighting scheme that reflected the relative importance of different factors in drought vulnerability. The resulting vulnerability map not only delineated areas with varying degrees of drought vulnerability (normal, mild, moderate, severe, and extreme) but also highlighted the spatial distribution of these vulnerabilities. Notably, the analysis revealed that 38.88% and 28.80% of the Middle Moulouya and Guercif regions fall under the severe and extreme vulnerability categories, respectively. These areas, particularly the northern, central, and southwestern regions, warrant immediate attention in the development of targeted drought mitigation and adaptation strategies.
Serpina1e mediates the exercise-induced enhancement of hippocampal memory
Authors: Park Hyungju , Kim Hyunyoung , Shin Sanghee , Han Jeongho , Kim Jong-Seo
Published: September 2024

The exercise-induced enhancement of learning and memory is thought to be regulated by body‒brain interactions via secretory proteins in the blood plasma1,2. Given the prominent role that skeletal muscle plays during exercise, the beneficial effects of exercise on cognitive functions appear to be mediated by muscle-derived secretory factors including myokines3,4. However, the specific myokines that exert beneficial effects on cognitive functions remain to be elucidated. Here, we reveal that a novel myokine, Serpina1e, acts a molecular mediator that directly supports long-term memory formation in the hippocampus. Using an in vivo myokine-labeling mouse model, proteomic analysis revealed that the Serpina1 family of proteins are the myokines whose levels increased the most in plasma after chronic aerobic exercise for 4 weeks. Systemic delivery of recombinant Serpina1e into sedentary mice was sufficient for reproducing the beneficial effect of exercise on hippocampus-associated cognitive functions. Moreover, plasma Serpina1e can cross the blood–cerebral spinal fluid (CSF) barrier and blood–brain barrier to reach the brain, thereby influencing hippocampal function. Indeed, an increase in the plasma level of Serpina1e promoted hippocampal neurogenesis, increased the levels of brain-derived neurotrophic factor (BDNF) and induced neurite growth. Our findings reveal that Serpina1e is a myokine that migrates to the brain and mediates exercise-induced memory enhancement by triggering neurotrophic growth signaling in the hippocampus. This discovery elucidates the molecular mechanisms underlying the beneficial effects of exercise on cognitive function and may have implications for the development of novel therapeutic interventions for alleviating cognitive disorders.
Sex-Specific Cypermethrin Induced Hippocampal Neurotoxicity Is Via the Modulation of Signaling Molecules for Antioxidant Defense, Membrane Integrity, Apoptosis and GABAergic Integrity
Authors: Imam Aminu , Busari Maryam , Oyegbola Christianah , Moyinoluwa Balogun Faith , Faith Owoeye , Samuel Ajayi PG , Ibrahim Ibrahim Bolaji , Atiyatul-Hanan Ghazal T. , Iyiola Ajibola M. , Ijomone Omamuyovwi M. , Ajao Moyosore S.
Published: September 2024

Pesticides, despite their intended use against pests, can have detrimental effects on non-target organisms, including humans. Its main route of exposure in urban areas is through dietary intake of fruits and vegetables. Oxidative stress, apoptosis and compromise to GABAergic interneurons’ integrity can be attributed to cypermethrin-induced neurotoxicity. The hippocampus, a vital region for memory and learning is particularly susceptible to the neurological toxicity caused by cypermethrin. Sixty adult male and female rats were grouped into control and cypermethrin-treatment groups. The treatment groups received oral dosages of 6.25mg/kg and 12.5mg/kg respectively for fourteen consecutive days. The daily weight was noted. The study was carried out on the hippocampal CA1 and CA3 regions of the rats using biochemical markers: GnRH, Na+/K + ATPase, COX-2, PG-E2 and immunohistochemical markers: Nrf2, CC3, BCL-2, parvalbumin and H&E. Cypermethrin caused a compensatory increase in body weight of the low cypermethrin group and decrease in body weight due to increased dose. Cypermethrin toxicity caused brain weight decrease which was seen more prominently in female high cypermethrin group. Using the biochemical markers, cypermethrin caused neuroinflammation and disrupted the normal functioning of the reproductive hormones and cell membrane; it was more prominent in females. Using the immunohistochemical markers, cypermethrin induced oxidative stress, apoptosis and compromise to the GABAergic interneuron integrity. The female rats expressed higher neuroprotection which can be attributed to estrogen and its signaling pathways. The findings of the study shows that there are dose and sex-specific mechanisms may be involved in cypermethrin neurotoxicity, highlighting the importance of considering sex differences in toxicity studies.
A Verifiable Privacy-Preserving Data Aggregation Scheme with Illegal Data Detection for Infectious Disease Surveillance Systems
Authors: Yang Xiaodong , Yang Lan , Li Songyu , Du Xiaoni , Wang Caifen
Published: September 2024

With various infectious diseases spreading globally, Infectious Disease Surveillance (IDS) plays a crucial role in stopping the spread of infectious diseases. Data aggregation techniques are commonly used to avoid user privacy leakage caused by infectious disease surveillance data transmission. However, none of the currently proposed data aggregation schemes simultaneously consider security issues such as untrustworthy aggregation nodes, illegal signature localization and identity anonymization. To address the above issues, this scheme proposes verifiable data security communication scheme with illegal data detection for infectious disease surveillance systems (VDSCS-IDS). Specifically, we use homomorphic encryption and signature techniques with batch verification to ensure the confidentiality and integrity of data. Then, VDSCS-IDS utilizes a pseudonym mechanism to prevent user identity disclosure. In addition, we can efficiently perform illegal signature localization, which improves the robustness of secure message interactions. We use a commitment mechanism to solve the problem of untrustworthy third-party aggregation nodes. Particularly noteworthy is the scheme's ability to perform diverse data statistics. Security analysis shows that the scheme achieves the desired security performance. Detailed performance analysis proves that the scheme is feasible with excellent computational and communication performance and can be applied to IDS securely and efficiently.
GFF-Net: A high-accuracy railway foreign body detection network based on gradient optimization and cross-layer feature fusion
Authors: Ye Tao , Cong Xiao , Chen Runqi , Tao Hongjing , Zhao Yunlong , Ren Hongbin , Gao Xiaozhi , Chen Haoran
Published: September 2024

The emergence of foreign bodies on railways is characterized by strong randomness and significant concealment, making high-accuracy detection a challenging task. This paper proposes a detection network based on gradient optimization and cross-layer feature fusion (GFF-Net) for the high-accuracy detection of foreign bodies on railways. Firstly, the backbone is redesigned through gradient design to optimize the feature extraction process, improving object feature representation ability while increasing feature extraction efficiency. Secondly, a cross-layer feature fusion method is designed to reduce feature loss in the traditional fusion process and enhance the model's multi-scale feature fusion capability. Then, based on the railway foreign body detection dataset (RFDD) established in this paper, GFF-Net achieves the highest detection accuracy of 89.8% mAP and a real-time inference speed of 94 FPS on the NVIDIA GeForce GTX1080Ti GPU platform, outperforming other methods like YOLOv7. Additionally, GFF-Net also demonstrates satisfactory detection performance on the public dataset MS COCO 2017.
Decoding Cardiovascular Links to ICU Admission and Mortality in COVID-19
Authors: Moarref Alireza , Eilami Owrang , Hosseini Seyed Sasan , Khabir Mohsen
Published: September 2024

Objective
In this study, we aimed to investigate cardiovascular complications in COVID-19 patients hospitalized at Shahid Faghihi Hospital and assess the correlation of these complications with the need for intensive care unit (ICU) admission and mortality.
Methods
A retrospective analysis was conducted on 216 COVID-19 patients admitted to Shahid Faghihi Hospital, randomly selected. Patient records were evaluated for laboratory findings, electrocardiography, echocardiography, and cardiovascular complications. The data were analyzed using SPSS software.
Results
Among the 216 patients studied, 89 (41.2%) were male, and 127 (58.8%) were female. The average age of the patients was 61.56 years. Patients requiring ICU admission had higher age, elevated lactate dehydrogenase (LDH), and higher D-dimer levels. Deceased patients also had higher LDH and D-dimer levels compared to recovered patients. Furthermore, deceased patients were more likely to have positive troponin and higher D-dimer levels. They exhibited more non-specific ST-T segment changes, Atrial fibrillation, right bundle branch block, rightward deviation of the heart's electrical axis, elevated ST segment, pericardial effusion, pleural effusion, and segmental pulmonary thromboembolism. Also, normal electrocardiography (ECG) had a protective effect on admission to the intensive care unit.
Conclusion
COVID-19 patients may experience not only respiratory syndromes but also cardiovascular complications, including myocarditis, stroke, and pulmonary thromboembolism, which can contribute to increased morbidity and mortality. Therefore, appropriate cardiovascular monitoring for COVID-19 patients is of paramount importance.ug.
The impact of photochemical aging on secondary aerosol formation from a marine engine
Authors: Paul Andreas , Kokkola Tuukka , Fang Zheng , Ihalainen Mika , Czech Hendryk , Etzien Uwe , Hohaus Thorsten , Sippula Olli , Rudich Yinon , Buchholz Bert , Zimmerman Ralf
Published: September 2024

Ship traffic is known as one important contributor to air pollution. Recent regulations aimed at reducing sulfur oxide (SOx) pollution by limiting the fuel sulfur content (FSC) may also decrease fresh particulate matter (PM) emitted from ships. However, there is a knowledge gap regarding how the FSC affects secondary aerosol formation. Aerosol particle emissions from a research ship engine operated with either low sulfur heavy fuel oil (LS-HFO) (FSC=0.5%) or marine gas oil (MGO) (FSC=0.01%), were studied. The emissions were photochemically processed in the oxidation flow reactor “PEAR” to equivalent photochemical aging between 0-9 days in the atmosphere. It was found that FSC had no significant impact on secondary organic aerosol (SOA) formation after 3 days of aging, at 1.8±0.4g/kg and 1.5±0.4g/kg for MGO and LS-HFO, respectively. Furthermore, the composition and oxidative pathways remained similar regardless of FSC. However, as a result of the higher secondary SO4 formation and fresh aerosol emissions, LS-HFO had significantly higher total PM1 than MGO. Black carbon (BC) specifically was found to be 3 times higher for HFO than MGO. While the fuel with the lower sulfur content produces significantly less PM, the SOA formation remains similar regardless of FSC.
Characteristic microbial taxa and predicted functions of gut microbiome detected in clinically affected horses with colitis
Authors: KINOSHITA Yuta , NIWA Hidekazu , UENO Takanori
Published: September 2024

In horses, the gut microbiota plays an important role in maintaining both a healthy intestinal environment and general condition. Here, we aimed to identify characteristic gut microbial and functional changes in colitis horses by long amplicon sequencing targeting the rRNA operon. The intestinal contents of 23 horses with colitis were compared with those of 39 clinically healthy horses and 16 horses given antimicrobials. Alpha and beta diversities in the colitis horses differed significantly from those in the other two groups. Of the 291 taxa detected at the family level, 107 showed significant increases or decreases in relative abundance in the colitis horses. These 107 taxa included those that clearly play an important role in the intestinal tract, such as Verrucomicrobia, Barnesiellaceae, or Fibrobacteraceae, as well as many taxa with still unknown roles. Eight of 35 predicted functional categories in the colitis horses differed significantly from those in the healthy horses; in particular, the attenuated biodegradation and metabolism of xenobiotics might suggest the need for toxin adsorption therapy in colitis horses. These characteristic microbial and functional changes could be useful indicators in veterinary intervention attempts to control the gut microbiota for colitis prevention and treatment.
Causal relationship between gut microbiota, structural connectivity, and psoriasis: A Mendelian randomization
Authors: Huang Zirui , Lu Tao , Lin Jiahua , Ding Qike , Li Xiaoting , Lin Lihong
Published: September 2024

Background
Previous studies have demonstrated a causal relationship between gut microbiota/structural connectivity and psoriasis. However, it is not clear whether structural connectivity act as mediator in the pathway from gut microbiota to psoriasis.
Methods
Based on genome-wide association studies (GWAS), we performed two-step MR-analysis in order to examine the role of structural connectivity (N = 26,333) as potential mediators between gut microbiota (N = 13,266) and psoriasis (N = 15,967). Summary statistics for gut microbiota were sourced from MiBioGen consortium, while the data of structural connectivity and psoriasis came from the GWAS catalog.
Results
Through MR analysis, we identified 2 gut microbiota and 15 inflammatory proteins related to psoriasis such as genus Coprococcus3 and LH Limbic to caudate (OR = 1.33, 95% CI: 1.00–1.76, P = 0.048; OR = 0.70, 95% CI: 0.56–0.86, P = 0.001). After MVMR analysis, LH Limbic to caudate remained significant in relation to a decreased risk of psoriasis (P = 0.0005) while the association was no longer significant between genus Coprococcus3 and psoriasis (P = 0.121). The mediating effect was calculated as 0.047 (OR = 1.049, 95% CI: 1.006–1.109) accounting for 16.6% of the total effect.
Conclusion
Our study provides genetic evidence that in the pathway from gut microbiota to psoriasis, structural connectivity act as mediators.
Genetic causality between multiple sclerosis and atopic dermatitis: A univariable and multivariable Mendelian randomization study
Authors: Xie Yuping , Liu Hongjin , Qiu Yingkun , Cao Yingping
Published: September 2024

Objective
We sought to estimate the genetic causal association between multiple sclerosis (MS) and atopic dermatitis (AD) and identify potential mediating factors.
Methods
We used univariable Mendelian randomization (UVMR) with inverse variance weighting (IVW) as the primary study method to estimate the causal effect of MS on AD, supplemented by weighted median and MR Egger validation analyses. Furthermore, we conducted a reverse MR analysis. Sensitivity analyses were performed using Cochran's Q test, MR-Egger intercept test, leave-one-out, and funnel plot analysis to evaluate the robustness of the MR findings. Additionally, multivariable MR (MVMR) was employed to estimate the direct causal effect of MS on the risk of AD.
Results
UVMR analysis demonstrated a genetic predisposition associated with the risk of MS and AD with an odds ratio of 1.10 (95% Confidence Interval: 1.05 to 1.15, P = 1.87 × 10^−5). Consistent results were observed after adjusting for potential confounders, including Body Mass Index (BMI), telomere length, vitamin deficiencies, and smoking-related factors in MVMR analyses. However, following adjustment for C-reactive protein, serum levels of 25-hydroxyvitamin D, and smoking status as confounders, MS was no longer identified as a risk factor for AD.
Conclusions
The findings indicate that while there may be a genetic link between MS and AD, the causal pathway is complex and influenced by multiple biological and environmental factors. Further research is needed to elucidate these interactions and their implications for disease prevention and treatment strategies.
The role of time spent in unpaid domestic work on educational outcomes among adolescents and young adults: Quantitative evidence from India
Authors: Sharma Anupam , Shah Ankita
Published: September 2024

Higher education among youth is crucial for India's socio-economic development. Despite policy efforts, challenges persist in retaining students beyond elementary school and improving inclusivity and education quality. Using the UDAYA dataset from Uttar Pradesh and Bihar, we examined how unpaid domestic work affects educational outcomes. Findings from survey-adjusted logistic regression models showed that more time spent on unpaid domestic work was associated with greater likelihood of discontinuing education, absenteeism, and lesser likelihood of reading and arithmetic abilities among 12–23 years old, with some evidence of greater burden among girls. This relationship was attenuated by investing more time in academically productive work. There is need for targeted educational interventions for disadvantaged youth and emphasize the importance of expanding quality public services to reduce the burden of unpaid domestic work on young people. Introduction
The human cost of current and recommended diets in the U.S.
Authors: Sparks Jessica Decker , Rodríguez-Huerta Edgar , Bell Brooke , Battaglia Kyra , Marquez Alejandra Sofia , Matteson Julia , Norris Catherine Benoît , Conrad Zach , Jackson Bethany , Blackstone Nicole Tichenor
Published: September 2024

Modeling research on sustainable diets has primarily focused on human and planetary health, while neglecting the social dimension of sustainability, despite the agricultural and fishing sector’s significant global employment and high forced labor rates. To address this gap, our prior work developed a forced labor risk scoring method and applied it to the U.S. food supply. Expanding on this, we assess forced labor risk in current U.S. diets, three U.S.-specific recommended dietary patterns, and the EAT-Lancet Planetary Health Diet. We find that the forced labor risk is highest in the Mediterranean-Style and the U.S.-Style recommended patterns and is lowest in the Planetary Health Diet pattern, with the biggest differences driven by intake of fruit, dairy, and red meat. These results highlight synergies and tradeoffs between human health, environmental sustainability, and social well-being that should be considered in dialogue and action on sustainable diets.
Novel thermoresponsive ether-based electrolyte for wide-temperature operating lithium metal batteries
Authors: Min Yulin , gu rong , Zhang Da , Xu Shengtao , Guo Xiaoyu , Jiang Hua , Sheng ZhiMeng , xu qunjie , xu jinting , Zhu Sheng , Liao Kexuan , Gong Shuaiqi , shi Penghui
Published: September 2024

Developing wide-temperature range and safety electrolytes for lithium metal batteries (LMBs) is expected to possess high redox interfacial stability, rapid kinetics and intrinsic safety. However, traditional electrolytes are rarely able to satisfy all of these characteristics simultaneously, often exhibiting preference for one over the other. Herein, we present a novel ether-based thermoresponsive electrolyte, that are designed by temperature-dependent Li+ solvation structure and forming polycrystalline electrode/electrolyte interface, can achieve the above characteristics at conventional salt concentration. The solvation sheath in the novel electrolyte is reconstructed by 1,3,5-trioxane (TO), accelerating the dissociation and charge transfer kinetics of anions. TO also induces cationic-ring-opening polymerization of tetrahydrofuran solvent molecules at 60 oC to produce oxidation-resistant ether-based polymers, which enhances the high-temperature performance and safety of LMBs. Consequently, the Li||LiNi0.8Co0.1Mn0.1O2 (NCM811) cells using this thermoresponsive electrolyte operate well over a wide temperature range (from −60 to 60 oC). Besides, the Li||NCM811 pouch cell (1.5 Ah) achieve a high capacity-retention of 74.7% after 60 cycles at −40 °C, accompanied by an impressive energy density of 317.1 Wh kg−1.
Increasing summertime penetrative shortwave radiation and its weakening effect on the seasonal cycle in mid-latitude oceans
Authors: Tian Feng , Zhang Ronghua
Published: September 2024

The seasonal cycle of sea surface temperature (SST) in the mid-latitude ocean is projected to be strengthened with greater warming in the summer hemisphere under global warming. Influenced by the phytoplankton pigment and mixed layer depth, a fraction of the shortwave radiation penetrates out of the bottom of the mixed layer (hereafter Qpen), which significantly affects the seasonal cycle of the SST. However, how the Qpen will change under a warmer climate and its effect on the seasonal cycle of SST remain unknown. Here, we show that the summertime Qpen increases by 3.9 (3.7) ± 1.9 (1.6) W m− 2 in the northern (southern) mid-latitude oceans during the second half of the 21st century by analyzing state-of-the-art Earth System Models simulations. This remarkable increase in Qpen is mainly due to the shoaling of the mixed layer and partly to the reduction in chlorophyll concentration, which contributes significantly to the increase in Qpen due to its greater sensitivity to shortwave penetration depth in mid-latitude oceans. The enhanced summertime Qpen tends to efficiently weaken the amplitude of the summertime SST by ~ 0.3°C month− 1, whereby it mitigates the increase in net surface heat flux associated with greenhouse gas warming. These significant changes in Qpen highlight the significance of quantifying Qpen effects and future ocean phytoplankton-induced heating feedbacks in mid-latitude seasonal cycles.
Who drives weight stigma? A multinational exploration of clustering characteristics behind weight bias against preconception, pregnant, and postpartum women
Authors: Hailu Haimanot , Rodriguez Angela C. Incollingo , Rodriguez Anthony , Skouteris Helen , Hill Briony
Published: September 2024

Background
Weight bias is a global health challenge and community members are endorsed as the most common source of weight bias. The nature of weight biases specifically against preconception, pregnant, and postpartum (PPP) women from the perspective of community members is not known, especially in terms of cross-cultural trends. We investigated the magnitude of explicit and implicit weight bias and profiles of characteristics associated with harbouring weight bias.
Methods
We conducted a multinational investigation of clusters of factors associated with weight bias against PPP women (May - July 2023). Community members from Australia, Canada, United States (US), United Kingdom (UK), Malaysia, and India completed a cross-sectional survey measuring explicit and implicit weight biases, beliefs about weight controllability, and awareness of sociocultural body ideals. Hierarchical multiple regression and latent profile analyses identified clusters of factors associated with weight bias.
Results
Participants from India reported the lowest explicit weight bias (B = -0.45, p = 0.02). Participants from Australia (B = -0.14, p = 0.04) and the UK (B = -0.16, p = 0.02) (vs. US) reported the lowest implicit weight bias. Three distinct profiles were identified clustering on body mass index (BMI) and weight-controllability beliefs: low-BMI/moderate-beliefs, high-BMI/more biased beliefs, and high-BMI/less biased beliefs. Profile membership varied by country of residence and weight bias outcomes with low-BMI/moderate-beliefs profiles containing more people from non-Western countries and with low explicit weight bias.
Conclusions
Explicit and implicit weight bias was harboured by participants across all included nations, although less pronounced in non-Western countries. Our profiles highlight that individuals who held a stronger belief that weight is controllable, regardless of their body weight, should be targeted for interventions to eliminate weight stigma.
Dynamic Responses of Germination Characteristics and Antioxidant Systems to Alfalfa (Medicago sativa) Seed Aging Based on Transcriptome
Authors: Sun Shoujiang , Mi Chunjiao , Ma Wen , Mao Peisheng
Published: September 2024

Seed aging poses a significant challenge to agronomic production and germplasm conservation. Reactive oxygen species (ROS) are highly involved in the aging process. However, dynamic response of germination characteristics and antioxidant system to seed aging are not yet very clear. This study explored the potential physiological mechanisms responsible for the reduced and rapid loss of seed vigor in alfalfa, and identified key genes regulating seed vigor. The germination percentage exhibited a decreased trend with the prolongation of aging duration. From 16 to 32 days of aging, the antioxidant enzyme activities of SOD, POD, CAT, DHAR and MDHAR declined significantly, which lead to the disruption of ROS balance and a significant increase in ROS levels, exacerbating seed aging. Based on transcriptome, 29 differentially expressed genes (DEGs) including SOD1, APX-2 and GST-7 within the ROS scavenging system showed a significantly down-regulated expression trend at aging of 16 and 24 days, indicating the abnormal function of antioxidant metabolism. Furthermore, some related genes including ATPF1B, ATPeF0C-3, NDUFS1, NDUFS3 and ND2 in the mitochondrial ETC exhibited a downturn following seed aging, which would result in the losing of seed vigor. This study has uncovered a significant array of potential target genes within the seed antioxidant system and mitochondrial ETC. These discoveries offer a wider lens for delving into the molecular regulatory mechanisms of seed aging. Further research is crucial to comprehensively elucidate the precise pathways through which these pivotal genes regulate seed vigor.
Time series data-based classification using combined 1D- CNN-GRU for Seizure detection and prediction
Authors: GHEZALA CHEKHMANE , Radhwane Benali
Published: September 2024

Epilepsy is a malfunction of nervous system that it changes the quality of human’s life, and it is caused by many factors. Therefore, the diagnosis of this disease needs the acquisition of the electrical activity of brain which called electroencephalography (EEG) technique. Thus, EEG signals (EEGs) recorded are widely used for epileptic seizure detection and prediction. However, to investigate these process, convolutional neural network (CNN) and deep recurrent network (DRN) are developed to automate the classification of EEGs. In the presented article, a proposed model combined both one-dimensional CNN (1D- CNN) and Gate Recurrent Unit (GRU) is established for EEGs analysis. Furthermore, the performance of this framework is evaluated by using the publicly available CHB-MIT dataset, and the classification between these conditions is examined. Moreover, the obtained results show higher accuracies of the proposed 1D-CNN-GRU and outperforms significantly previous works. Finally, this architecture is accurate and proves their efficacity in the task of epileptic seizure detection and prediction.
Impact of pre-existing subclinical depressive symptoms on the mental health of older adults during the COVID-19-related confinements.
Authors: Touron Edelweiss , Gonneaud Julie , Paly Léo , Delarue Marion , Hébert Oriane , Mézenge Florence , Fauvel Séverine , Vivien Denis , Sayette Vincent de La , Poisnel Géraldine , Marchant Natalie L. , Chételat Gaël , Group the Medit-Ageing Research
Published: September 2024

The COVID-19 pandemic significantly challenged mental health of populations worldwide. We aimed to assess changes in mental health of cognitively unimpaired (CU) older adults with pre-existing subclinical depressive symptoms during pandemic-related confinements, and the factors that could modulate these changes. CU older adults with (DepS, n=53) and without (NoDepS, n=47) pre-existing subclinical depressive symptoms (defined using the Geriatric Depression Scale at baseline) from the Age-Well randomized controlled trial (NCT02977819) were included – for whom data at baseline, post-intervention visits and during the two national confinements were available. The 18-month meditation or non-native language training intervention was completed before the pandemic. DepS, compared to NoDepS, had higher levels of depressive and anxiety symptoms at all assessments, including confinements. DepS had a greater increase in anxiety than NoDepS between the two confinements, and this increase was associated with greater ruminative brooding at baseline, but was not moderated by meditation practice. Pre-existing subclinical depressive symptoms in older adults contribute to mental health deterioration during confinements, with rumination being the main factor involved – stressing the need to treat these symptoms.
Kinetics Study of Carbaryl Degradation in Squash and Cucumber Fruits
Authors:   Department of Chemistry, Turabah University College, Taif University, Saudi Arabia, Abdelrahman Elsheikh Malik Abdalla
Published: September 2024

In this study, residual levels of carbaryl insecticides were determined in squash (summer squash, ronde de nice) and cucumber (C. sativus) fruits using spectrophotometry. The degradation rate, degradation percentage, half-life and activation energy of carbaryl degradation were calculated. The degradation reaction of the carbaryl was found to follow first-order reaction kinetics. The half-lifetimes (t1/2) ranged between 2.18 and 2.32 days, and the activation energies (Ea) of carbaryl degradation for squash and cucumber samples were 10.34 kcal/mole and 8.95 kcal/ mole respectively. The degradation of carbaryl residue was greatly affected by small increases in temperature. Based on the maximum residue limit (MRL), the safety time was found to be five days after carbaryl application. The limit of detection (LOD) of the method used for carbaryl measurement in fruits in this study was 0.023 ppm, and the average recovery percentage of carbaryl was 95.98%.
Development of a rotation and swing torque detection system after bearing installation
Authors: Meng Qingguo , Wang Zeliang , Mu Jinyao , Kong Lingchun
Published: September 2024

The swing torque and rotational torque after the spherical bearing is installed directly affect the performance of the spherical bearing. At this stage, the friction torque detection equipment of the spherical bearing is mainly used to detect uninstalled bearings. A set of rotation and swing after the bearing is installed is designed. Torque detection system. The detection principles of rotational torque and swing torque required for flexibility detection were analyzed, the functional design requirements and main technical indicators of the detection system were clarified, and the overall design plan of the detection system was established; the host structure of the detection system was designed, including rotational torque detection system, swing torque detection system, clamping system and calibration system; completed the scheme design of the detection control system, selected the torque sensor and servo motor, designed the main electrical control circuit of the detector; conducted error analysis of the detector.
Effect of pier bearing construction on nearby high-speed rail line bridges
Authors: Gong Tian Hao , Yao Yun Long
Published: September 2024

In order to analyze the impact of the new pier bearing platform construction on the bridge section adjacent to the high-speed railway line, a new pier bearing platform project adjacent to the high-speed railway line in the soft soil area of the Yangtze River Delta is taken as the background of the project, and the finite element software Plaxis 3D is used to study the impact of the pier bearing platform construction on the bridge section adjacent to the high-speed railway line, and to analyze the effect of distance on the horizontal displacement and settlement of the bridge foundation soil body. The neighboring high-speed rail line bridge is displaced horizontally toward the foundation, with the maximum horizontal displacement of 1.5 mm and the maximum settlement of 5.5 mm; the existing pier bearing platforms are also displaced in the same direction, with the maximum horizontal displacement of 2.7 mm and the maximum settlement of 5.4 mm, and the pier bearing platforms in the middle are affected the most.
Simulation analysis of helicopter rotor blade based on fluid-structure coupling
Authors: Zhu Kai , Liu Hongyue
Published: September 2024

Since the helicopters are required to fulfil many different attitudes during actual flight and are exposed to low amplitude and high number of cycles of vibration loads for a long period of time, the stresses on its rotor structure will be more complicated, which will lead to the rotor blades being subjected to larger stresses and causing fatigue damage. This paper proposes a combination of fluid-solid coupling and nCode fatigue simulation of helicopter rotor blade structure to study the stress distribution, danger point and fatigue life of rotor blades in hovering and forward flight state, so as to provide a reference basis for the judgement of helicopter rotor blade fatigue damage and the enhancement of safety performance. The results show that the maximum stress of the helicopter in the forward flight state is larger than that in the hovering state, and the maximum stress of the rotor blade in the forward flight state of the helicopter is located at the root of the blade as 166.89 MPa; and the fatigue life in the two states is obtained by the joint simulation method of Workbench-nCode, and the fatigue life in the forward flight state is reduced by 0.726 % compared with that in the hovering state. Therefore, the combined method of fluid-solid coupling and nCode fatigue simulation proposed in this paper can provide an effective research method for the design and optimisation process of helicopter rotor blades.
Prediction of concrete sulfuric acid corrosion evaluation index model based on grey system theory
Authors: Lin Mingqiang , Zeng Qinglong , Dai Fengjuan , Zhang Ran
Published: September 2024

In order to predict the impact of sulfate corrosion on concrete, based on grey system theory, GM(1,1) and GM(1, N) models were used to predict and analyze the compressive strength and relative dynamic elastic modulus of concrete under sulfuric acid corrosion. The results show that the prediction error of the GM(1,1) model for concrete sulfate corrosion attenuation is within 5 %, and the residual size test of the GM(1, N) model for concrete sulfate corrosion is within 10 %.
Mathematical modeling of piezoceramic spherical shell actuator for vibration generating devices
Authors: Bazilo Constantine , Antonyuk Victor , Bondarenko Maksym , Vysloukh Sergii , Voloshko Oksana , Litvin Roman
Published: September 2024

The article examines the relevance of piezoceramic spherical shell actuators, which provide a high level of accuracy and stability in the generation of vibrational oscillations over a wide range of amplitude-frequency characteristics. The spherical shape of these actuators is chosen because it allows for uniform distribution of mechanical stresses across the actuator’s surface, thereby enhancing its durability and efficiency compared to traditional flat or cylindrical designs. The study presents analytically derived mathematical models and formulas for determining the electrical impedance of piezoelectric elements and analyzes the dependence of the amplitude of electrical impedance on frequency and the charge ratio on the polarized surfaces of the spherical piezoceramic element. The proposed model enables the determination of electrical impedance as a function of cyclic frequency and various parameters (geometric, physical and mechanical, electrical) of the actuators. The study establishes that spherical shell actuators exhibit a higher quality factor (2-2.5 times greater than disk actuators and 1.4-1.8 times greater than cylindrical actuators) and a significant reduction in impedance (2.5-7 times lower) at electromechanical resonance frequencies around 2.4 kHz. Furthermore, spherical actuators demonstrate 20-30 % better resistance to deformation and 15-25 % lower susceptibility to local resonances compared to other actuator shapes, which enhances operational stability and vibration generation accuracy.
Antioxidant Properties of Teucrium polium Extract Contribute to Neurochemical and Brain Structural Modulations in Nicotine-Induced Mice
Authors: Alatawi Afaf A. , Ajarem Jamaan S. , Alarifi Saud A. , Al-Quraishy Saleh A. , Al-Shaebi Esam M. , Alawwad Sarah A. , Herqash Rashed N. , Khadrawy Sally M. , Ahmed Noha A. , Wang Chuanyi , Maodaa Saleh N.
Published: September 2024

Introduction:

Tobacco use is a major global health issue linked to psychiatric illnesses
and high mortality rates. Nicotine, the primary compound absorbed during smoking,
causes harm to various organs, particularly the brain. The current study examined the modulatory
effect of Teucrium polium extract (TPE) on nicotine-induced biochemical and histological
changes in the brains of mice.

Methods:

Twenty-four mice were divided into four groups and were treated for three weeks.
Group one was the control; Group two received 100 mg/kg TPE orally; Group three was subcutaneously
injected with 2.5 mg/kg nicotine, and Group four received both nicotine and TPE.

Results:

The brain tissue of the nicotine-induced group showed histopathological alterations
and oxidative stress as indicated by increased lipid peroxidation and nitric oxide levels concomitant
with decreased glutathione content and superoxide dismutase activity. DNA fragmentation
was also detected by comet assay. Treatment with TPE significantly decreased oxidative stress
and DNA fragmentation while increasing antioxidant biomarkers. Histopathological changes
were also diminished.

Conclusion:

Through the antioxidant activity of TPE, it protected against nicotine-induced neurotoxicity
in mice by impacting oxidative stress, DNA fragmentation, and brain histopathological
changes.