bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Analysis and Comparison of Accuracy in Brain Tumor using Berkeley Wavelet Transform and Robust Principal Component Analysis
Authors: Reddy Chappidi Sree Teja , Ramalingam Geetha
Published: January 2024

The main objective of this study is to compare Berkeley wavelet transform (BWT) and robust principal component analysis (ROBPCA) techniques in tumor analysis to improve the accuracy of image processing. Based on the sample sizes of BWT (N=16) and ROBPCA (N=16), tumor MR pictures of various brain tumor illnesses have been gathered. Image segmentation has been finished, and textural features have been retrieved using image processing methods. The accuracy and sensitivity of the parameter are taken into consideration by both organizations when evaluating tumor detection and evaluation. The sample size for each group could be determined by maintaining the enrollment ratio at 1, the threshold alpha at 0.05, the g power at 80%, and the confidence interval at 95%. The absence of a statistically significant difference (p = 0.182) between the two groups was verified using an Independent Sample T-test. The accuracy numbers in BWT are 81.5%, while 84% is the accuracy value in ROBPCA. When it comes to brain tumor detection and analysis, ROBPCA has performed well when compared to BWT.
Harvesting the Future: AI and IoT in Agriculture
Authors: Hussein Abbas Hameed Abdul , Jabbar Kadhim A. , Mohammed Aymen , Jasim Laith
Published: January 2024

This review article, “Harvesting the Future: AI and IoT in Agriculture,” presents a comprehensive analysis of the transformative impact of Artificial Intelligence (AI) and the Internet of Things (IoT) in modern agriculture. It synthesizes a range of studies to showcase how AI and Machine Learning (ML) algorithms are revolutionizing crop management, precision agriculture, and supply chain efficiency. Utilizing data from various sources like sensors, drones, and satellites, these technologies enable optimized resource use, enhanced crop yields, and better livestock health monitoring. The review highlights the role of IoT in agriculture, particularly its benefits in easy installation, reduced maintenance, and energy harvesting for device sustainability. It explores the integration of IoT with big data and knowledge-based systems, addressing key challenges in farm data management. Additionally, the paper delves into the growing adoption of smart agriculture techniques, driven by cost-effective IoT sensors and AI advancements. These technologies facilitate efficient resource management, predictive analytics, and autonomous farming, thereby modernizing traditional agricultural practices. The review also discusses the broader social implications and future trends in the adoption of smart agriculture systems, describing their significance in enhancing agricultural productivity, sustainability, and profitability.
Real Time Water Quality Monitoring of River Pamba (India) using Internet of Things
Authors: Roy Anitha , J Kizhakkethottam Jubilant
Published: January 2024

— All of Earth’s living things depend on food and clean water to survive. River water monitoring is essential for gathering the data required to manage water quality in the present as well as the future. In this research, the water quality of the Pamba River is monitored and analyzed using the Internet of Things (IoT) during the monsoon and summer seasons. The Pamba River is the third-longest river in the Indian state of Kerala and one of the primary sources of drinking water in Kerala’s Pathanamthitta and Alappuzha districts. In conventional systems, the monitoring procedure entails manually collecting water samples from various places, followed by testing and analysis in a lab. This is costly and time-consuming. With developments in sensors, communication, and the Internet of Things (IoT), monitoring water contamination has become more and more crucial in recent years and provides accurate data. The system collects information from IoT sensors to evaluate the quality of the water, including pH, dissolved oxygen, temperature changes, and other parameters. The relevant officials are alerted in the case of any variation, and all of this data is stored in the cloud. The system also ensures real-time water quality monitoring.
Research on the timing of polymer flooding oil and water well fracturing
Authors: Zhang Wei
Published: January 2024

Fracturing technology is the main measure to increase production and injection in oilfield production. With the gradual expansion of the scale of polymer flooding, the proportion of fractured Wells also increases year by year. How to maximize the benefits of fracturing measures has become the key technology, and the timing of fracturing is a major factor affecting the fracturing effect. By studying the fracturing time and effect of fracturing Wells in the industrial zone of polymer flooding, the optimal fracturing time of injection-production Wells is given. The fracturing time of injection Wells should be dominated by blank water drive stage and water-cut decline period. The producing Wells with low liquid production strength and low flow pressure are suitable for whole-well fracturing in water-cut decline period, and the thick-injection-thin production Wells dominated by river channels are suitable for fracturing in low-water cut period. Thin and differential Wells with differential production are suitable for fracturing during water-cut recovery period.
Small-Molecule Activation by Low-Coordinated Germanium Compounds
Authors: Sasamori Takahiro
Published: January 2024

We have been interested in the differences between the properties of low-coordinated carbon compounds and their heavier homologues based on elements of group 14, e.g., Si and Ge. Fundamental research on the synthesis and characterization of divalent and multiply bonded compounds of heavier group 14 elements has led to a variety of isolated low-coordinated species of heavier group 14 elements that can replace transition metals in small-molecule transformations. We have focused on low-coordinated germanium compounds with double or triple bonds between germanium atoms, as well as germanium-containing aromatic compounds. Once isolated, the reactivity of these low-coordinated germanium compounds was examined with regard to small-molecule activation. In this account, the reactivity patterns of these compounds will be described.

1 Introduction

2 1,2-Dibromodigermenes and Bromogermylenes

3 Digermynes

4 1,2-Digermacyclobutene

5 1,3-Digerma-2-silaallene

6 Digerma-Aromatic Compounds

7 Germanium-Catalyzed Cyclotrimerization of Alkynes

8 Summary
Glucocorticoid-Induced Myopathy: Typology, Pathogenesis, Diagnosis,
and Treatment
Authors: Wu Mengmeng , Liu Caixia , Sun Dong
Published: January 2024

Glucocorticoid-induced myopathy is a non-inflammatory toxic myopathy typified by
proximal muscle weakness, muscle atrophy, fatigue, and easy fatigability. These
vague symptoms coupled with underlying disorders may mask the signs of
glucocorticoid-induced myopathy, leading to an underestimation of the disease’s
impact. This review briefly summarizes the classification, pathogenesis, and
treatment options for glucocorticoid-induced muscle wasting. Additionally, we
discuss current diagnostic measures in clinical research and routine care used
for diagnosing and monitoring glucocorticoid-induced myopathy, which includes
gait speed tests, muscle strength tests, hematologic tests, bioelectrical
impedance analysis (BIA), dual-energy X-ray absorptiometry (DXA), computed
tomography (CT), magnetic resonance imaging (MRI), electromyography,
quantitative muscle ultrasound, histological examination, and genetic analysis.
Continuous monitoring of patients receiving glucocorticoid therapy plays an
important role in enabling early detection of glucocorticoid-induced myopathy,
allowing physicians to modify treatment plans before significant clinical
weakness arises.
Position of the Proximal Manica Flexoria under different grades of fetlock joint extension – A biomechanical observational study in the equine fore- and hindlimb
Authors: Schweinsberg Lorenz P. , Ehrle Anna , Jensen Katharina Charlotte , Lischer Christoph J. , Cender Andrea Noguera
Published: January 2024

Objective The aim of this study was to examine the position of the proximal manica flexoria and the proximal scutum under different grades of fetlock joint extension and to describe measurements and compare findings between equine fore- and hindlimbs.

Study Design It was an observational study.

Results During fetlock joint extension, the proximal manica flexoria and the proximal scutum displace distally relative to the palmar/plantar extent of the sagittal ridge of the cannon bone. The proximal manica flexoria is further displaced distal to the proximal scutum within the fetlock canal. No significant differences were identified between fore- and hindlimbs at different levels of fetlock joint extension. The proximal scutum was observed to be longer and thicker and the tendinous part of the manica flexoria was longer in forelimbs compared with hindlimbs.

Conclusion and Clinical Relevance The described findings contribute to the understanding of the pathogenesis of manica flexoria tearing. The fact that the proximal scutum and the tendinous part of the manica flexoria are shorter in the hindlimb might explain why the manica flexoria is more likely to get caught on the proximal aspect of the scutum and develop a tear in the equine hindlimb.
Wrist Salvage and Fusion Outcomes in a Veterans Affairs Population
Authors: Lawson Edward , Cinclair Trey , Lies Shelby
Published: January 2024

Introduction Wrist osteoarthritis (OA) is a common condition in the elderly population that can lead to significant impairment. Common causes of wrist OA are scapholunate advanced collapse (SLAC) and scaphoid nonunion advanced collapse (SNAC). This study examines the outcomes of wrist salvage and fusion surgeries in the treatment of posttraumatic wrist arthritis caused by SLAC/SNAC in the Veteran population.

Materials and Methods A retrospective review was performed of patients who presented to a single Veteran Affairs hospital with wrist arthritis over the period of 12 years. Information analyzed included patient demographics, SNAC/SLAC grade, and first operation (proximal row carpectomy, four-corner fusion, and total wrist fusion). Outcomes reviewed included postoperative malunion, impingement, hardware failure, postoperative range of motion (ROM), persistent pain, recurrent arthritis, and need for reoperation.

Results In the proximal row carpectomy group, 11 (29%) patients had poor ROM postoperation, 14 (36.8%) had persistent pain, 3 (7.9%) had recurrent arthritis, and 2 (5.3%) needed reoperations. In the four corner fusion 4CF group, 3 (13.6%) patients had malunion, 3 (13.6%) had impingement, 5 (22.7%) had a hardware failure, 2 (8.7%) had poor ROM postop, 9 (40.9%) had persistent pain, 6 (27.3%) had recurrent arthritis, and 6 (27.3%) needed reoperations. In the total wrist fusion TWF group, 2 (18.2%) patients had malunion, 2 (18.2%) had impingement, and 2 (18.2%) had hardware failure. No patients had poor ROM postoperation, 5 (45.5%) had persistent pain, 2 (18.2%) had recurrent arthritis, and 3 (27.3%) needed reoperations.

Conclusions In the treatment of wrist arthritis, partial wrist fusions are optimal for maintaining ROM while improving pain control.

Level of Evidence III
Oral Drug for Small Intestinal Angiodysplasia Bleeding: Every Cloud Has a Silver Lining!!
Authors: Thakur Rajneesh , Rana Surinder Singh
Published: January 2024

Because of both difficulties in accurate diagnosis and appropriate management, small bowel bleeding due to angiodysplasia remains a challenging and perplexing issue in clinical practice. Advancement in small bowel endoscopy including capsule endoscopy as well as balloon enteroscopy has expanded the domain of endoscopic hemostatic interventions in the small bowel. This has led on to marked improvement in immediate homeostasis rates in patients with small bowel angiodysplasias (SBA) bleeding. However, high recurrent bleeding rates are an important limitation of endoscopic interventions. Therefore, there is an unmet need of an effective therapeutic as well as prophylactic pharmacotherapy that can alter the course of the disease. Long-acting octreotide as well as thalidomide has been used in patients with SBA bleeding with encouraging results, but the evidence on their efficacy is not robust. In news and views of this issue, we discuss a randomized controlled study that investigates the efficacy and safety of thalidomide for the treatment of recurrent bleeding due to SBA.
Use of Mexiletine in Children: A Minireview
Authors: Sarret Catherine , Barrière Sarah , Remerand Ganaelle , Massoullie Grégoire , Chalard Aurélie , Dauphin Claire , Pontier Bénédicte , Laffargue Fanny
Published: January 2024

Mexiletine is well-established sodium channel blocker that acts on cardiac myocytes and neurons. It has recently been repositioned as an orphan drug in the treatment of rare neuromuscular diseases in adults with nondystrophic myotonia. It has also long been used in some rare pediatric diseases in the areas of cardiopathy, epilepsy, neuromuscular diseases, and pain disorders. Here, we review the different uses of mexiletine reported in pediatrics, stating indications, efficacy, and tolerance. Special attention by health authorities to maintain access to mexiletine in rare pediatric diseases and further pediatric research in these rare syndromes are required.
Cognitive and Behavioral Profile in a Child with Macrocerebellum—A Rare Congenital Brain Malformation
Authors: Baby Betsy , Nair Gowthami , Arya Maniyan Lathikakumari , Uranguladi Madhusoodanan , Khan Ajina , Sundaram Soumya
Published: January 2024

Macrocerebellum is a rare condition marked by an aberrant growth in the size of the cerebellum without any morphological or signal abnormalities. It can occur in isolation (nonsyndromic) or as part of various clinical syndromes such as Costello's syndrome, Sotos syndrome, Williams' syndrome, macrocephaly-capillary malformation syndrome, mucopolysaccharidosis, and Lhermitte–Duclos' syndrome. The most common clinical features described with macrocerebellum are developmental delay, hypotonia, ataxia, nystagmus, oculomotor apraxia, seizures, and facial dysmorphism. The exact pathophysiological basis underneath this condition is still unknown. We report the case of a 13-month-old boy who presented with developmental delay, nystagmus, and generalized hypotonia. The presence of nystagmus made us suspect cerebellar pathology in this child. Magnetic resonance imaging of brain showed macrocerebellum which was confirmed by volumetric analysis. He did not have any clinical features to suggest a syndrome associated with macrocerebellum. His developmental quotient was 45, and his receptive and expressive language age was around 5 to 6 months. His genetic analysis by whole exome sequencing did not reveal any disease-causing variants. A repeat clinical evaluation after 4 months showed an improvement in motor domains.
Torsion of an Accessory Liver Lobe in a Newborn
Authors: Krause Tobias , Cholewa Dietmar , Liniger Benjamin , Berger Steffen , Milosevic Milan
Published: January 2024

Accessory liver lobes are rare. We present the rare case of torsion of an accessory liver lobe in a neonate.

A 13-day-old newborn presented with failure to thrive and hematemesis without fever. The initial workup with sonography, magnetic resonance imaging, and upper gastrointestinal study was suspicious of a duplication cyst, most likely in the posterior wall of the stomach. Laboratory and radiological findings were not suggesting a choledochal cyst. We performed a laparotomy with resection of the 3.2 × 2.1 × 1.1 cm mass. Intraoperatively, the cystic formation extended from of the liver bed up to the lesser curvature of the stomach. The mass was attached to the left liver lobe with fibrous bands. Histopathology revealed necrotic liver parenchyma with patent viable biliary ducts, indicative of an accessory liver lobe that underwent torsion in the perinatal period. The postoperative course and follow-up (6 months so far) were uneventful. To our knowledge, this is the youngest described patient in the literature with an accessory liver lobe torsion and the second case report concerning this entity in a neonate. It presents an extremely rare differential diagnosis in symptomatic neonates with a cystic mass in the upper abdomen.
Not with the bot! The relevance of trust to explain the acceptance of chatbots by insurance customers
Authors: de Andrés-Sánchez Jorge , Gené-Albesa Jaume
Published: January 2024

Industry 4.0 profoundly impacts the insurance sector, as evidenced by the significant growth of insurtech. One of these technologies is chatbots, which enable policyholders to seamlessly manage their active insurance policies. This paper analyses policyholders’ attitude toward conversational bots in this context. To achieve this objective, we employed a structured survey involving policyholders. The survey aimed to determine the average degree of acceptance of chatbots for contacting the insurer to take action such as claim reporting. We also assessed the role of variables of the technology acceptance model, perceived usefulness, and perceived ease of use, as well as trust, in explaining attitude and behavioral intention. We have observed a low acceptance of insureds to implement insurance procedures with the assistance of a chatbot. The theoretical model proposed to explain chatbot acceptance provides good adjustment and prediction capability. Even though the three assessed factors are relevant for explaining attitude toward interactions with conversational robots and behavioral intention to use them, the variable trust exhibited the greatest impact. The findings of this paper have fair potential theoretical and practical implications. They outline the special relevance of trust in explaining customers’ acceptance of chatbots since this construct impacts directly on attitude but also perceived usefulness and perceived ease of use. Likewise, improvements in the utility and ease of use of robots are also needed to prevent customers’ reluctance toward their services.
A new frontier of flexible energy devices: Aqueous proton supercapacitors
Authors: Liang Jing , Wu Wei
Published: January 2024

Aqueous proton supercapacitors are considered as promising energy storage devices for next-generation wearable electronics due to their high energy density, rapid kinetics, long cycles, and reliable safety. As of now, the research for electrochemical proton energy storage entails more holistic considerations. In this review, we provide a timely and comprehensive review of recent advances in electrochemical proton storage. First, we discuss the main explored proton storage electrode materials, including carbon materials, metal oxides, Prussian blue, COFs, and MXenes, from the aspects of structure, preparation strategy, and proton storage mechanism. Furthermore, we systematically focus on their multifunctional applications of proton supercapacitors including flexible and wearable electronics, anti-freezing energy storage system, etc. Finally, the challenges and prospects of flexible proton supercapacitors are outlined. We believe that this review will greatly improve the knowledge of proton energy storage and facilitate the development of advanced electrochemical energy systems.
Toward practical mass spectrometry with nanomechanical pillar resonators by surface acoustic wave transduction
Authors: Kähler Hendrik , Winkler Robert , Arthaber Holger , Plank Harald , Schmid Silvan
Published: January 2024

Nanoelectromechanical systems (NEMS) have shown outstanding performance in the detection of small masses down to single proton sensitivity. To obtain a high enough throughput for application in practical mass spectrometry, NEMS resonators are arranged in two-dimensional (2D) arrays. However, all state-of-the-art electromechanical transduction methods rely on electrical lines placed close to the mechanical resonators, which drastically restricts the density of 2D resonator arrays. An exception is the transduction by surface acoustic waves (SAWs), which has so far only been shown for the transduction of single nanomechanical pillar resonators. Here, we demonstrate the transduction of pillar pairs by SAWs. The pillars have a diameter of 700 nm and show a mass responsivity of −588 ± 98 ng−1. The distances between the pillar pairs are 70 nm and 14.3 µm. SAW transduction enabled us to measure both pillars of each pair with electrical lines no closer than 300 µm, illustrating the potential of SAWs to transduce dense arrays of pillar resonators, a crucial step toward practical mass spectrometry with NEMS.
Electromagnetic–thermal field coupling in tissue ablation: The EAES design and optimization
Authors: Lu Xiangyang , Huang Jintao , Lu Wanyu
Published: January 2024

The coupling control of multi-physics fields has become a focal issue in the engineering domain, especially for achieving a more precise simulation and prediction of physical phenomena. This approach plays a crucial role in enhancing design efficiency and optimizing material selection. Focusing primarily on the controllability between microwave and temperature fields, the Emission Area Extension Structure (EAES) is a novel structure in response to the demand for high circularity in microwave ablation. Finite element analysis was employed to examine the distribution characteristics of electromagnetic and temperature fields in liver tissue under varying power and time conditions. Comparative analyses were conducted to evaluate the impact and performance of the EAES vs traditional structures in ablation. Incorporating the EAES into conventional ablation needles allows for a more concentrated distribution of the electromagnetic field without altering the needle diameter. In the simulation of tissue ablation, the circularity of ablation increased by 10%, while water-cooling efficiency increased by 11%. The introduction of EAES, while maintaining its minimally invasive characteristics, effectively enhanced the controllability of conformal ablation. Furthermore, a mathematical model was developed to serve as a theoretical basis for selecting optimal preoperative parameters, incorporating conditions such as ablation time, power, range, and circularity. Overall, by conducting a multi-physics field coupling analysis on microwave ablation needles and proposing the EAES solution, this study aims to enhance the predictability, controllability, and safety of conformal ablation.
Orthogonal experimental study on the influence of machining parameters on flat lapping of sapphire substrate
Authors: Wang Sheng , Ruan Jiahong , Xiao Shihao , Deng Qianfa , Zhao Tianchen
Published: January 2024

Sapphire is extensively utilized in the optical, aerospace, and civil electronic industries due to its favorable optical, physical, and chemical characteristics. To enhance the efficiency and quality of sapphire lapping, an orthogonal experiment was conducted on a single-side sapphire substrate using a ceramic lapping plate. The study examined the impact of lapping plate material, lapping pressure, lapping speed, and abrasive particle size on the surface roughness, profile, and removal rate. By analyzing the signal-to-noise ratio and variance of machining parameters, the influence rule and influence of the weight of machining parameters on machining results were obtained. The results of the experiment demonstrate that the material removal rate of sapphire was positively affected by an increase in lapping pressure, speed, and abrasive particle size. Moreover, the removal rate of the SiC lapping plate was the highest among the experimental materials. The roughness of the sapphire surface decreased with increasing lapping pressure, speed, and abrasive particle size, while the SiC plate had the lowest surface roughness. The profile tolerance of sapphire diminished as the lapping pressure, lapping speed, and the abrasive particle size increased. Additionally, the ZrO2 lapping plate exhibited the most minor profile tolerance. The size of the abrasive particle significantly impacted the material removal rate, with a specific gravity exceeding 70%. Similarly, the lapping pressure had a significant effect on both the surface roughness and the profile tolerance. The ideal machining parameter combination comprised an abrasive particle size of 10 µm, a lapping pressure of 22 785.0 Pa, a lapping speed of 60 rpm, and a lapping plate of SiC. Under optimal machining conditions, sapphire exhibited a material removal rate of 0.65 µm/h, a surface roughness of 0.0920 µm, and a profile tolerance of 2.0915 µm after 20 min of lapping. This demonstrated that the lapping process enables highly efficient and high-quality machining of sapphire substrates.
Investigation of proton single-event transient in CMOS image sensor
Authors: Peng Zhigang , Fu Yanjun , Wei Yuan , Zuo Yinghong , Niu Shengli , Zhu Jinhui , Guo Yaxin , Liu Fang , Li Pei , He Chaohui , Li Yonghong
Published: January 2024

With the increasingly widespread application of CMOS image sensors (CIS) in radiation environments, such as aerospace, their radiation effects have gained attention. This paper investigates single-event transient (SET) caused by the proton direct ionization on CIS, combining both experimental and simulation methods. The proton beam energy used in the experiment is 12 MeV, with a flux up to 3.5 × 108 p/(cm2 s). Due to the periodicity of the proton beam, the CIS output displays a phenomenon of alternating brightness and darkness. When the proton beam flux is low, numerous SET bright spots with different outputs are observed. To comprehensively analyze these experimental phenomena, a typical three-dimensional 4T pinned photodiode model is constructed in TCAD, and relevant SET simulation is carried out. The results indicate that incident position, incident time, and the number of incident protons significantly affect the output of SET-generated bright spots, which are key factors contributing to the different bright spots observed in the experiment.
Two-stage stochastic robust optimization scheduling of electric–thermal microgrid with solid electric thermal storage
Authors: Feng Peiru , Jiang Guifen , Li Kun , Xu Jiayin , Shen Yuming , Xu Wuhao , Wang Shuai
Published: January 2024

During the periods of high heat load (HL) demand in winter, the increased heat output of combined heat and power units (CHPs) can significantly compress the electric power regulation range, thereby posing a threat to the safety of the power system. The solid electric thermal storage (SETS) can be employed as the regulating resource for both electric and thermal systems, expanding the dispatch space of microgrids to promote renewable energy consumption. In this paper, a two-stage stochastic robust optimization scheduling model of an electric–thermal microgrid with SETS is proposed, and the electric–thermal bi-directional regulation characteristics of SETS are considered. First, a SETS operation model based on the heat transfer characteristics of the homogeneous material-type thermal storage unit is established. Second, a regional thermal inertia model under a constant-flow variable-temperature system is established, which integrates HL at different locations to the heat source, avoiding the calculation of variation in water temperature, thus reducing the calculation difficulty. Finally, the two-stage stochastic robust optimization scheduling model of an electric–thermal microgrid with SETS is established. The model decouples the power and heat generation of CHP through the bi-directional regulation function of SETS. Case studies demonstrate the validity and effectiveness of the proposed scheduling model.
Optimizing a deep learning model for the prediction of electric field induced by transcranial magnetic stimulation for mild to moderate traumatic brain injury patients
Authors: Saxena Yash R. , Lewis Connor J. , Lee Joseph V. , Franke Laura M. , Alam Muhammad Sabbir , Tashli Mohannad , Atulasimha Jayasimha , Hadimani Ravi L.
Published: January 2024

Transcranial magnetic stimulation (TMS) is a non-invasive method for treating neurological and psychiatric disorders. It is being tested as an experimental treatment for patients with mild to moderate traumatic brain injuries (mTBI). Due to the complex, heterogeneous composition of the brain, it is difficult to determine if targeted brain regions receive the correct amount of electric field (E-field) induced by the TMS coil. E-field distributions can be calculated by running time-consuming finite element analysis (FEA) simulations of TMS on patient head models. Using machine learning, the E-field can be predicted in real-time. Our prior work used a Deep Convolutional Neural Network (DCNN) to predict the E-field in healthy patients. This study applies the same DCNN to mTBI patients and investigates how model depth and color space of E-field images affect model performance. Nine DCNNs were created using combinations of 3, 4, or 5 encoder and decoder blocks with the color spaces RGB, LAB, and YCbCr. As depth increased, training and testing peak signal-to-noise ratios (PSNR) increased and mean squared errors (MSE) decreased. The depth 5 YCbCr model had the highest training and testing PSNRs of 34.77 and 29.08 dB and lowest training and testing MSEs of 3.335∗10−4 and 1.237∗10−3 respectively. Compared to the model in our prior work, models of depth 5 have higher testing PSNRs and lower MSEs and, except for RGB. Thus, DCNNs with depth 5 and alternative color spaces, despite losing information through color space conversions, resulted in higher PSNRs and lower MSEs.
Pressure induced modification of electronic and magnetic properties of MnCrNbAl and MnCrTaAl
Authors: Schmidt Brandon , Shand Paul M. , Kharel Parashu , Lukashev Pavel V.
Published: January 2024

Spin-gapless semiconductor (SGS) is a new class of material that has been studied recently for potential applications in spintronics. This material behaves as an insulator for one spin channel, and as a gapless semiconductor for the opposite spin. In this work, we present results of a computational study of two quaternary Heusler alloys, MnCrNbAl and MnCrTaAl that have been recently reported to exhibit spin-gapless semiconducting electronic structure. In particular, using density functional calculations we analyze the effect of external pressure on electronic and magnetic properties of these compounds. It is shown that while these two alloys exhibit nearly SGS behavior at optimal lattice constants and at negative pressure (expansion), they are half-metals at equilibrium, and magnetic semiconductors at larger lattice constant. At the same time, reduction of the unit cell volume has a detrimental effect on electronic properties of these materials, by modifying the exchange splitting of their electronic structure and ultimately destroying their half-metallic/semiconducting behavior. Thus, our results indicate that both MnCrNbAl and MnCrTaAl may be attractive for practical device applications in spin-based electronics, but a potential compression of the unit cell volume (e.g. in thin-film applications) should be avoided.
Population encoding of stimulus features along the visual hierarchy
Authors: Dyballa Luciano , Rudzite Andra M. , Hoseini Mahmood S. , Thapa Mishek , Stryker Michael P. , Field Greg D. , Zucker Steven W.
Published: January 2024

The retina and primary visual cortex (V1) both exhibit diverse neural populations sensitive to diverse visual features. Yet it remains unclear how neural populations in each area partition stimulus space to span these features. One possibility is that neural populations are organized into discrete groups of neurons, with each group signaling a particular constellation of features. Alternatively, neurons could be continuously distributed across feature-encoding space. To distinguish these possibilities, we presented a battery of visual stimuli to the mouse retina and V1 while measuring neural responses with multi-electrode arrays. Using machine learning approaches, we developed a manifold embedding technique that captures how neural populations partition feature space and how visual responses correlate with physiological and anatomical properties of individual neurons. We show that retinal populations discretely encode features, while V1 populations provide a more continuous representation. Applying the same analysis approach to convolutional neural networks that model visual processing, we demonstrate that they partition features much more similarly to the retina, indicating they are more like big retinas than little brains.
Clonal barcoding of endogenous adult hematopoietic stem cells reveals a spectrum of lineage contributions
Authors: Feng Jue , Jang Geunhyo , Esteva Eduardo , Adams Nicholas M. , Jin Hua , Reizis Boris
Published: January 2024

The hierarchical model of hematopoiesis posits that self-renewing, multipotent hematopoietic stem cells (HSCs) give rise to all blood cell lineages. While this model accounts for hematopoiesis in transplant settings, its applicability to steady-state hematopoiesis remains to be clarified. Here, we used inducible clonal DNA barcoding of endogenous adult HSCs to trace their contribution to major hematopoietic cell lineages in unmanipulated animals. While the majority of barcodes were unique to a single lineage, we also observed frequent barcode sharing between multiple lineages, specifically between lymphocytes and myeloid cells. These results suggest that both single-lineage and multilineage contributions by HSCs collectively drive continuous hematopoiesis, and highlight a close relationship of myeloid and lymphoid development.
Level structures of 96Tc and their microscopic description
Authors: Rana A K , Sihotra S , Sharma H P , Singh V , Bhat G H , Jehangir S , Sheikh J A , Rather N , Kuldeep  , Singh N , Bhowmik R K , Kumar R , Singh R P , Muralithar S , Chauhan Pooja , Verma Dalip Singh , Trivedi T , Kumar S , Palit R , Mehta D
Published: January 2024

High spin states in the 96Tc nucleus were populated in the 75As(28Si, 4p3n) fusion-evaporation reaction at E
lab = 120 MeV and the de-excitations were investigated through in-beam γ-ray spectroscopic techniques using indian national gamma array spectrometer consisting of 18 clover Ge detectors. The present level scheme of the 96Tc nucleus has been extended substantially with the addition of about forty five new γ transitions. The level structures in 96Tc have been established up to excitation energy ∼10 MeV and angular momentum ∼25ℏ. Level structures of 96Tc nucleus are discussed in the framework of triaxial projected shell model calculations.
Highly uniform core/shell structures AuR/Ag and AuR/Ag@BSA with various shell thicknesses for surface-enhanced Raman scattering
Authors: Tran Khac Khoi , Ha Le Tien , Chu Viet Ha , Do Thi Hue
Published: January 2024

This work indicates the synthesis of uniform core/shell nanostructures (AuR/Ag) with different thicknesses of Ag shell by the double seed method. This method consists of two self-sufficient progresses, one seed for the formation of gold nanorods (AuRs) and one for the formation of the Ag shell for the gold nanorods to form the AuR/Ag. Acid ascorbic (L-AA) acts as a weak reducing agent and hexadecyltrimethylammonium chloride (CTAC) acts as a surfactant for Ag shell. The formation and growth of the Ag shell were carefully investigated by changing the reaction factors such as temperature, time, and concentration of AgNO3. The greater the concentration of AgNO3 shelling precursor, the thicker the shell and therefore the more high-energy vibrational modes appear in the near-ultraviolet region. In survey of surface-enhanced Raman scattering effect of AuRs and AuR/Ag with Rhodamine B (RB) detector, the results show that AuR/Ag has the ability to enhance Raman signal much better than AuRs. At the same time, the thicker the Ag shell, the better the Raman signal enhancement ability.
Study on compressive strength and sulfate corrosion resistance of limestone powder and waste glass powder mixed concrete
Authors: Li Chengjin
Published: January 2024

In order to enhance the utilization rate of waste powder and improve the sulfate corrosion resistance of limestone powder concrete, the evolution law of compressive strength, porosity, sulfate corrosion resistance of limestone powder and waste glass powder mixed concrete with different proportions was studied. It is found through that the early strength of limestone powder concrete cannot be enhanced by waste glass powder, but its late strength can be improved (curing age of 90d). The compressive strength can be improved by adding 5% ~ 15% waste glass powder to the concrete with 10% limestone powder or 5% waste glass powder to the concrete with 20% limestone powder. The pozzolanic activity of waste glass powder is the main factor to increase the late strength of limestone powder concrete. Waste glass powder can be used to improve the sulfate corrosion resistance of limestone powder concrete, and the best combination is 10% limestone powder concrete mixed with 5% waste glass powder. The corrosion products showed that waste glass powder could improve the sulfate resistance of limestone powder concrete from the following three aspects: consuming part of CH, reducing the degree of sulfate corrosion reaction, and improving the limestone powder to inhibit the later hydration reaction of concrete. This study provides a valuable reference for the further utilization of limestone powder and waste glass powder.
CFD investigation of multiple peristaltic waves in a 3D unobstructed ureter
Authors: Keni Laxmikant G , Satish Shenoy B , Chethan K N , Hegde Padmaraj , Prakashini K , Tamagawa Masaaki , Zuber Mohammad
Published: January 2024

Ureters are essential components of the urinary system and play a crucial role in the transportation of urine from the kidneys to the bladder. In the current study, a three-dimensional ureter is modelled. A series of peristaltic waves are made to travel on the ureter wall to analyse and measure parameter effects such as pressure, velocity, gradient pressure, and wall shear at different time steps. The flow dynamics in the ureters are thoroughly analysed using the commercially available ANSYS-CFX software. The maximum pressure is found in the triple wave at the ureteropelvic junction and maximum velocity is observed in the single and double wave motion due to the contraction produced by the peristalsis motion. The pressure gradient is maximum at the inlet of the ureter during the single bolus motion. The contraction produces a high jet of velocity due to neck formation and also helps in urine trapping in the form of a bolus, which leads to the formation of reverse flow. Due to the reduction in area, shear stress builds on the ureter wall. The high shear stress may rupture the junctions in the ureter.
A direct-writing electrospinning system for designing complex architectures in tissue engineering
Authors: Armenio Laura , Farè Silvia , Draghi Lorenza
Published: January 2024

Recently, direct-writing electrospinning has been pursued to reach a higher accuracy and complexity in fiber scaffold fabrication compared to other extrusion techniques more frequently encountered in tissue engineering. However, to date, direct-writing electrospinning lacks a wide application to process materials such as nature-derived polymers, of huge importance in tissue engineering given their chemical properties similar to that of native tissues. In this work, a setup to perform direct-writing electrospinning was developed and demonstrated versatility and efficiency in obtaining submicrometric fibers and guiding their deposition along various types of paths and patterns, resulting in a user-friendly method to create structures closely resembling tissue architecture.
Resistance bias estimation of a liquid column in a cylindrical conductivity cell with lateral liquid supply
Authors: Stennik Oleksii , Mikhal Oleksandr
Published: January 2024

The article shows a physical model of a cylindrical two-electrode conductivity cell with inlet and outlet holes for filling located perpendicular to the cell axis. Based on the finite element method (FEM), the non-uniformity of the current density distribution inside the cell was determined. For a range of geometrical parameters of the cell, the resistance biases of the liquid column with respect to the idealized model—a cell with a uniform current density distribution (without holes) are calculated. A mathematical expression is given that describes calculating the electrolytic conductivity value using the geometrical parameters of a conductivity cell, taking into account the field distortion caused by holes for filling. It has also been found that at the ratio of the cell diameter to the hole diameter D/d ≥ 5, the entire field distortion inside the cell is provided by a liquid column in the holes with a length of only (h ≤ d) mm. Theoretical estimates and mathematical models covered in this article were used to create the primary differential conductivity cell. Structurally, such a cell consists of two tubes of the same diameter but of different lengths, at the edges of which platinized electrodes are placed.
Innovative mixed finite element method for bending analysis of functionally graded beams: modelling, validation, and applications
Authors: Benmalek Haroune , Bouziane Salah , Bouzerd Hamoudi , Suleiman Hisham
Published: January 2024

In this research, we consider solutions for the Euler-Bernoulli theory (CBT) and the theory of Timoshenko (TBT). It presents an innovative mixed finite element method tailored for analysing beams with functionally graded properties, focusing on their behaviour under bending loads. The method employs an isoparametric formulation in natural coordinates, enabling precise modelling of complex geometries common in structural engineering and materials science. A significant contribution is extending the mixed finite element approach to assess the bending behaviour of functionally graded beams. Hence, it is vital to understand material responses to external forces. To illustrate its effectiveness and versatility, we provide two numerical examples involving cantilever and simply-supported isotropic beams with property variations along the material’s thickness, following power-law distributions. Additionally, a third example features a cantilever made from isotropic functionally graded material with quadratic property changes through the thickness. The method’s robustness and credibility are established through rigorous validation against numerical and analytical solutions found in existing literature. This validation confirms the accuracy and reliability of the mixed finite element method for assessing functionally graded materials under bending conditions, enhancing its utility in structural analysis. This research introduces a potent numerical tool for investigating the behaviour of functionally graded materials subjected to bending, providing valuable implications for engineering and materials science applications.
Morc2a variants cause hydroxyl radical-mediated neuropathy and are rescued by restoring GHKL ATPase
Authors: Chung Hye Yoon , Lee Geon Seong , Nam Soo Hyun , Lee Jeong Hyeon , Han Jeong Pil , Song Sumin , Kim Gap-Don , Jung Choonkyun , Hyeon Do Young , Hwang Daehee , Choi Byung-Ok , Yeom Su Cheong
Published: January 2024

Mutations in the Microrchidia CW-type zinc finger 2 (MORC2) GHKL ATPase module cause a broad range of neuropathies, such as Charcot-Marie-Tooth disease type 2Z; however, the aetiology and therapeutic strategy are not fully understood. Previously, we reported that the Morc2a p.S87L mouse model exhibited neuropathy and muscular dysfunction through DNA damage accumulation.

In the present study, we analysed the gene expression of Morc2a p.S87L mice and designated the primary causing factor. We investigated the pathological pathway using Morc2a p.S87L mouse embryonic fibroblasts and human fibroblasts harbouring MORC2 p.R252W. We subsequently assessed the therapeutic effect of gene therapy administered to Morc2a p.S87L mice.

This study revealed that Morc2a p.S87L causes a protein synthesis defect, resulting in the loss of function of Morc2a and high cellular apoptosis induced by high hydroxyl radical levels. We considered the Morc2a GHKL ATPase domain as a therapeutic target because it simultaneously complements hydroxyl radical scavenging and ATPase activity. We used the adeno-associated virus (AAV)-PHP.eB serotype, which has a high CNS transduction efficiency, to express Morc2a or Morc2a GHKL ATPase domain protein in vivo. Notably, AAV gene therapy ameliorated neuropathy and muscular dysfunction with a single treatment. Loss-of-function characteristics due to protein synthesis defects in Morc2a p.S87L were also noted in human MORC2 p.S87L or p.R252W variants, indicating the correlation between mouse and human pathogenesis.

In summary, CMT2Z is known as an incurable genetic disorder, but the present study demonstrated its mechanisms and treatments based on established animal models. This study demonstrates that the Morc2a p.S87L variant causes hydroxyl radical-mediated neuropathy, which can be rescued through AAV-based gene therapy.
An Inflammatory Bowel Diseases Integrated Resources Portal (IBDIRP)
Authors: Kai Nie , Qingsong Cai , Kejia Ma , Weiwei Luo , Xing Wu , Xuejie Chen , Lixia Cai , Minzi Deng , Yuanyuan Yang , Xiaoyan Wang
Published: January 2024

IBD, including ulcerative colitis and Crohn’s disease, is a chronic and debilitating gastrointestinal disorder that affects millions of people worldwide. Research on IBD has generated massive amounts of data, including literature, metagenomics, metabolomics, bioresources and databases. We aim to create an IBD Integrated Resources Portal (IBDIRP) that provides the most comprehensive resources for IBD. An integrated platform was developed that provides information on different aspects of IBD research resources, such as single-nucleotide polymorphisms (SNPs), genes, transcriptome, microbiota, metabolomics, single cells and other resources. Valuable and comprehensive IBD-related data were collected from PubMed, Google, GMrepo, gutMega, gutMDisorder, Single Cell Portal and other sources. Then, the data were systematically sorted, and these resources were manually curated. We systematically sorted and cataloged more than 320 unique risk SNPs associated with IBD in the SNP section. We presented over 289 IBD-related genes based on the database collection in the gene section. We also obtained 153 manually curated IBD transcriptomics data, including 12 388 samples, on the Gene Expression Omnibus database. The sorted IBD-related microbiota data from three primary microbiome databases (GMrepo, gutMega and gutMDisorder) were available for download. We selected 23 149 IBD-related taxonomic records from these databases. Additionally, we collected 24 IBD metabolomics studies with 2896 participants in the metabolomics section. We introduced two interactive single-cell data plug-in units that provided data visualization based on cells and genes. Finally, we listed 18 significant IBD web resources, such as the official European Crohn’s and Colitis Organisation and International Organization for the Study of IBD websites, IBD scoring tools, IBD genetic and multi-omics resources, IBD biobanks and other useful research resources. The IBDIRP website is the first integrated resource for global IBD researchers. This portal will help researchers by providing comprehensive knowledge and enabling them to reinforce the multidimensional impression of IBD. The IBDIRP website is accessible via www.ibdirp.com

Database URL: www.ibdirp.com.