bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Impact of caesarean scar defects on the success of assisted human reproduction: the NICHE-ART prospective French cohort study protocol
Authors: Astruc Audrey , Deseine Delphine , Spiers Andrew , Boguenet Magalie , May-Panloup Pascale , Bouet Pierre Emmanuel , Legendre Guillaume
Published: December 2024

Background

The global increase in caesarean sections (CS), currently at 21.1% of all deliveries, has led to a rise in uterine scar defects, or ‘niches’, at the hysterotomy site. These niches, detectable in 13%–84% of cases via transvaginal ultrasound (TVS) and 42%–84% through sonohysterography (SHG), may contribute to gynaecological complications, including abnormal uterine bleeding, chronic pain and secondary infertility. Niche-associated risks for in vitro fertilisation (IVF) outcomes remain underexplored, and this study aims to evaluate their impact on clinical pregnancy rates.

Methods and analysis

This multicentre, prospective, non-interventional study will involve 250 women with a history of CS and secondary infertility undergoing IVF in 14 reproductive units of French Hospital. Participants will be assessed using SHG and TVS to determine niche presence (measurements of the length, depth and width of the niche, and residual myometrial thickness (RMT)). A niche is diagnosed by an indentation of at least 2 mm at the site of the caesarean scar, with a large niche defined as RMT <3 mm. The primary outcome is clinical pregnancy rate, with secondary outcomes including live birth rates, biochemical pregnancies and obstetric complications. Multivariate logistic regression will control for confounders. The duration of the inclusion period is estimated to be 42 months.

Ethics and dissemination

The study protocol was approved by the relevant French medical review board, ‘Comité de Protection des Personnes Sud Méditerranée IV’, on 10 November 2020 and recorded prospectively (before the inscription of the first participant) under the number ID-RCB: 2020-A02068-31. The study will be conducted according to the guidelines of the Declaration of Helsinki. Informed consent will be obtained from all participants. The findings will be published in peer-reviewed journals and presented at relevant meetings.

Trial registration number

ClinicalTrials.gov, ID:NCT04869007. Registered on 16 August 2020.
Study protocol of a randomised controlled trial of the effects of near-infrared spectroscopy neurofeedback training coupled with virtual reality technology in children with ADHD
Authors: Zheng Que , Kei Kathy Tsam-ling , Chiu Ka Yu , Shum Kathy Kar-man
Published: December 2024

Background

The rise in the number of children diagnosed with attention-deficit/hyperactivity disorder (ADHD) highlights the need for effective interventions targeting attentional control. Although recent research has demonstrated the potential of neurofeedback training (NFT) for children with ADHD, most studies have been conducted in laboratory settings, raising questions about their real-world applicability. To address this issue, virtual reality (VR) may offer a solution to the ecological validity challenges encountered in NFT. By coupling NFT with VR, individuals can engage in self-regulating brain activity within a simulated, realistic environment. This study aims to investigate the efficacy of near-infrared spectroscopy (NIRS)-based NFT combined with VR in alleviating ADHD symptoms among children, addressing the need for interventions with practical relevance and effectiveness.

Methods

This study aims to recruit 138 children aged 7–12 diagnosed with ADHD. Following baseline assessment, participants will be randomly assigned to one of three conditions: (1) NIRS-based NFT in a VR classroom setting; (2) conventional computerised cognitive training (active control) or (3) a waitlist control group. On completion of intervention sessions in the two training groups, all groups will undergo an assessment at time 2, with a follow-up assessment scheduled 2 months post-training for all participants. Primary outcomes will include measures of executive function, such as attentional control, response inhibition and working memory, along with changes in oxygenated and deoxygenated haemoglobin levels monitored by functional NIRS. Secondary outcome measures will comprise ratings of children’s ADHD symptoms and executive function behaviours in daily life, reported by parents and teachers.

Discussion

The three-arm randomised controlled trial will address research gaps regarding the effectiveness of NIRS-based NFT for children with ADHD, particularly when integrated with immersive VR technology. By combining NFT and VR, this study aims to simulate a real-world environment, potentially amplifying intervention effects. The findings from the study will provide evidence for the efficacy of this innovative intervention in improving executive function and alleviating ADHD symptoms.

Ethics and dissemination

Ethical approval was obtained from the Human Research Ethics Committee at the University of Hong Kong (Reference: EA200247). Results will be published in peer-reviewed journals and presented at conferences.

Trial registration number

NCT05906485.
Creation of the Indigenous Support Line for health system navigation and culturally safe access to care: a quality improvement project
Authors: Sheldon Cheryl , Eagle Speaker Casey , Ruben Amber , McRee Nadine , Oster Richard T , Jackson Andrea , Meckelborg Lori , Berry Sharon , Robillard Madelaine , Osiowy Kevin , Williams Kienan , Wisdom Council Members Alberta Health Services
Published: December 2024

Indigenous Peoples face inequities in health and healthcare access due to colonial history and systems. To work towards the Truth and Reconciliation Commission of Canada’s Calls to Action and the United Nations Declaration on the Rights of Indigenous Peoples, Alberta Health Services has collaborated with a Wisdom Council of engaged Elders and Indigenous community members to tailor programmes for Indigenous Peoples. The Indigenous Support Line (ISL) was created based on the Wisdom Council’s advice to provide an Indigenous-specific concerns line, which later expanded into a telehealth line to address any health questions or access issues, including health system navigation and access to Western and Indigenous health and wellness supports. Working from an ethical space guided the process, and Indigenous ways of knowing and Western approaches were respectfully integrated throughout. The percentage of calls answered or abandoned within 10 min was tracked as a key measure for quality improvement, coupled with a patient survey to measure access, accessibility, effectiveness and safety that included several open-ended questions that were treated as qualitative data and analysed using thematic analysis. Between June 2022 and February 2024, 92.7% of inbound calls were answered or abandoned within 10 min. A total of 86 respondents completed the survey, with 100% indicating they were satisfied with the service. Qualitative findings showed respondents felt satisfied with the line and the Indigenous Listeners, were respected during their call, and felt supported to have their concerns addressed. The ISL was successful in increasing Indigenous Peoples’ access to care in a culturally safe environment.
Impact of physical inactivity and sedentary behaviour on functional constipation in children and adolescents: a systematic review
Authors: Adil Shanaz , Gordon Morris , Hathagoda Wathsala , Kuruppu Chandrani , Benninga Marc A , Rajindrajith Shaman
Published: December 2024

Objective

Lack of physical activity (PA) and sedentary behaviour (SB) have emerged as critical global health concerns in children and are believed to be associated with functional constipation (FC). The present study aims to explore this potential association.

Design

A comprehensive search of PubMed, Scopus, Web of Science, Embase, Cochrane Library and PsycInfo databases was conducted through 2023 using terms related to constipation and PA and SB in ages 0–18 years. Titles and abstracts were screened against eligibility criteria. Constipation was diagnosed using Rome (II–IV) criteria. Full-text reviews were reviewed, and data were extracted. Risk of Bias in Non-randomized Follow-up Studies of Exposure quality assessment tool was used to evaluate the risk of bias of studies.

Main outcome measures

We assessed the association between lack of PA/SB and FC.

Results

A total of 2170 titles were screened. Nine studies encompassing 3849 children from six countries were included. Of these, four were community/school-based studies, one was a birth cohort, three were case series and two were hospital-based case-controlled studies. All 10 studies assessed the association between PA and FC. Only three showed an association between lack of PA and FC. Five studies evaluated the effects of SB on FC, and only two reported a positive association. The methods used to assess PA/SB differed across the studies. All nine studies included in the systematic review were rated as having high risk of bias.

Conclusions

Despite numerous studies suggesting a link between insufficient PA/SB and FC, this systematic review did not uncover compelling evidence supporting such an association.
Why do healthcare workers refuse tuberculosis preventive treatment (TPT)? a qualitative study from Puducherry, South India
Authors: Subramanian Sadhana , Gnanadhas Jilisha , Sarkar Sonali , Rajaram Manju , Prakashbabu Senbagavalli , Chinnakali Palanivel
Published: December 2024

Background

The sustainable development goal (SDG) 3.3.2 prompted India to devise the National Strategic Plan 2017–2025, targeting tuberculosis (TB) eradication by 2030. The prevention pillar of this plan emphasises on Tuberculosis Preventive Treatment (TPT) for those with TB infection (TBI). Healthcare workers (HCWs), identified as one of the high-risk groups by the WHO, show a higher refusal rate for TPT. We aimed to explore the reasons for TPT refusal among the HCWs identified with TBI in Puducherry, South India during 2023.

Methods

A qualitative descriptive study was conducted among 12 HCWs from a publicly funded tertiary care hospital, each with at least 5 years of experience. Participants were selected by maximum variation sampling, based on the department of work, current TBI status and subject expertise. The in-depth interviews, guided by the health belief model, lasted approximately 45 min each. Two researchers performed manual thematic analysis using the mixed approach for coding. Codes were grouped into categories and themes. Discrepancies were resolved through discussion with a third researcher, reaching a consensus.

Results

Three overarching themes emerged: perceived threats, beliefs regarding health interventions and empowering factors. Perceived threat elucidated the lower perceived vulnerability of contracting TB and minimal chance for progression of TBI to TB disease despite having continuous exposure and uncertainties in the workplace. Beliefs about health interventions included perceived obstacles and advantages, such as testing challenges and lack of awareness, as well as the benefits of prophylaxis and infection control measures. Empowering factors centred on prompting action and self-confidence, highlighting strategies to encourage TBI testing through administrative actions and endorsing shorter treatment plans.

Conclusions

Addressing the identified knowledge gaps and false perception through targeted interventions, healthcare institutions can improve TPT uptake. Implementing a comprehensive strategy that combines hospital policies to initiate screening and treatment, a supportive environment and shorter TPT regimens is essential to prevent TB among HCWs.
‘Mental heAlth and well-being in rUgby pLayers’ (MAUL) study: an online survey of diverse cohorts of rugby union players internationally
Authors: Griffin Steffan , Syed Sheriff Rebecca , Dane Kathryn , Myall Kearnan , Simpson Kaitlin , Lewis Heather , Yeomans Caithriona , Patricios Jon , Kemp Simon , Khan Karim , Palmer Debbie , Fawkner Samantha , Kelly Paul
Published: December 2024

Introduction

Mental health and well-being is a relatively under-researched area in rugby, especially outside the elite men’s game. Evidence suggests that physical activity and sports benefit mental health and well-being, and rugby provides health-enhancing moderate-to-vigorous physical activity.

Objective

This cross-sectional study used an online approach and engaged national rugby governing bodies to understand adult rugby players’ mental health and well-being and increase the diversity of the current evidence base.

Results

500 rugby players completed an online survey. 44% of participants identified as female, and 55% as male. The UK (67%), Ireland (15%) and South Africa (12%) were the countries with the highest representation. 71% of participants were amateur players, with elite players making up 20% of the population. 87% of players participated in contact forms of the game, with 9% predominantly playing non-contact rugby. Over 50% of participants reported that rugby impacted ‘extremely’ positively on both their mental health and well-being. Based on the Kessler psychological distress scale (K10), 57.8% of all respondents belonged to the ‘psychologically well’ group. Males were more likely to belong to this group than females (p=0.01). Non-contact and amateur players had lower scores of psychological distress than contact and professional players (p=0.001 and p=0.006), respectively. Non-contact players had higher well-being (Short Warwick-Edinburgh Mental Well-being Scale) scores than contact players (p<0.001).

Conclusion

This study provides new insights into the mental health and well-being of a diverse group of rugby players.
Long-term impact of adherence to muscle-strengthening guidelines on inflammation markers: a 17-year follow-up study with obesity parameters as mediators
Authors: Garcia-Hermoso Antonio , Ezzatvar Yasmin , Yáñez-Sepúlveda Rodrigo , Olivares-Arancibia Jorge , Páez-Herrera Jacqueline , López-Gil José Francisco
Published: December 2024

Objective

To evaluate the relationship between adherence to muscle-strengthening guidelines in young adulthood and inflammation markers over a 17-year follow-up period. Additionally, it aims to examine whether body mass index (BMI) and waist circumference (WC) act as mediators in this relationship.

Methods

The study analysed data from young adults aged 18–26 years who participated in waves III (2001–2002), IV (2008–2009) and V (2016–2018) of the Add Health Study. Adherence to muscle-strengthening guidelines was self-reported, and participants were classified as adherent if they engaged in strength training ≥2 days per week across all waves. Venous blood samples were collected at participants’ homes to measure high-sensitivity C reactive protein (hs-CRP) levels and various cytokine concentrations, including interleukin (IL)−6, IL-1beta, IL-8, IL-10 and tumour necrosis factor-alpha (TNF-α). A global inflammation score was also calculated using z-scores of these markers.

Results

A total of 2320 individuals participated (60.8% females). Participants adhering to muscle-strengthening guidelines exhibited significant reductions in hs-CRP, IL-6 and the inflammation z-score, with mean difference (MD) of −1.556 mg/L (95% CI BCa −2.312 to −0.799), −0.324 pg/mL (95% BCa CI −0.586 to −0.062), and −0.400 (95% BCa CI −0.785 to −0.035), respectively. Mediation analysis revealed that BMI and WC levels at wave V significantly mediated the relationship between strength training and inflammation z-score, with significant indirect effects of −0.142 (95% CI −0.231 to −0.055) for BMI and −0.210 (95% CI −0.308 to −0.124) for WC.

Conclusion

Adherence to muscle-strengthening guidelines alone may not be sufficient to achieve a notable decrease in inflammation without concurrent reductions in these obesity parameters.
Reactive oxygen species: Janus-faced molecules in the era of modern cancer therapy
Authors: O’Reilly Aine , Zhao Wenchao , Wickström Stina , Arnér Elias S J , Kiessling Rolf
Published: December 2024

Oxidative stress, that is, an unbalanced increase in reactive oxygen species (ROS), contributes to tumor-induced immune suppression and limits the efficacy of immunotherapy. Cancer cells have inherently increased ROS production, intracellularly through metabolic perturbations and extracellularly through activation of NADPH oxidases, which promotes cancer progression. Further increased ROS production or impaired antioxidant systems, induced, for example, by chemotherapy or radiotherapy, can preferentially kill cancer cells over healthy cells. Inflammatory cell-derived ROS mediate immunosuppressive effects of myeloid-derived suppressor cells and activated granulocytes, hampering antitumor effector cells such as T cells and natural killer (NK) cells. Cancer therapies modulating ROS levels in tumors may thus have entirely different consequences when targeting cancer cells versus immune cells. Here we discuss the possibility of developing more efficient cancer therapies based on reduction-oxidation modulation, as either monotherapies or in combination with immunotherapy. Short-term, systemic administration of antioxidants or drugs blocking ROS production can boost the immune system and act in synergy with immunotherapy. However, prolonged use of antioxidants can instead enhance tumor progression. Alternatives to systemic antioxidant administration are under development where gene-modified or activated T cells and NK cells are shielded ex vivo against the harmful effects of ROS before the infusion to patients with cancer.
Comparative estimate of glucose-lowering therapies on risk of incident pneumonia and severe sepsis: an analysis of real-world cohort data
Authors: Henney Alex E , Riley David R , Hydes Theresa J , Anson Matthew , Ibarburu Gema H , Frost Frederick , Alam Uazman , Cuthbertson Daniel J
Published: December 2024

Background

Sodium-glucose cotransporter-2 inhibitors (SGLT2i) and glucagon-like peptide-1 receptor agonists (GLP-1 RAs) are treatments for type 2 diabetes (T2D). Beyond glucose-lowering and cardiorenal protection, these drugs may protect against pneumonia and sepsis.

Aims

This study assesses the impact of SGLT2i and GLP-1 RAs on the risk of incident pneumonia and severe sepsis.

Methods

A retrospective cohort study was conducted using anonymised electronic medical records from TriNetX, a global federated database. Two intention-to-treat analyses were performed, each with two cohorts of adult T2D patients. The first analysis compared individuals prescribed SGLT2i, and the second individuals prescribed GLP-1 RAs, with those prescribed dipeptidyl peptidase-4 inhibitors (DPP-4i). An active comparator new user design was used, with outcomes defined as time-to-incident pneumonia and severe sepsis. Propensity score matching (1:1) was applied to control for potential confounders, and patients were followed for 12 months. Secondary analyses compared SGLT2i and GLP-1 RAs against other glucose-lowering therapies.

Results

After propensity score matching, 352 687 patients were included in the SGLT2i versus DPP-4i comparison. SGLT2i treatment was associated with a risk reduction in incident pneumonia (HR 0.75 (95% CI 0.73, 0.78)) and severe sepsis (0.75 (0.73, 0.77)). In the GLP-1 RA versus DPP-4i comparison, 331 863 patients were included. GLP-1 RA treatment was associated with a risk reduction in incident pneumonia (0.60 (0.58, 0.62)) and severe sepsis (0.61 (0.59, 0.63)).

Conclusion

SGLT2i and GLP-1 RAs are associated with a reduced risk of incident pneumonia and severe sepsis in patients with T2D. Further research and focused randomised controlled trials are warranted to explore the broader clinical implications of these treatments.
Evolution of whole blood trauma resuscitation in childbearing age females: practice patterns and trends
Authors: Brito Alexandra MP , Yazer Mark H , Sperry Jason L , Luther James F , Wisniewski Stephen R , Guyette Frances , Moore Ernest E , Cotton Bryan A , Vincent Laura , Fox Erin , Cannon Jeremy W , Namias Nicholas , Minei Joseph P , Ammons Lee Anne , Clayton Skye , Schreiber Martin
Published: December 2024

Background

The use of low titer group O whole blood (LTOWB) for resuscitation of patients with traumatic hemorrhage is becoming increasingly common. Practices regarding the administration of RhD-positive LTOWB to childbearing age females (CBAFs) vary between institutions due to concerns about RhD alloimmunization. This study examined practices related to LTOWB transfusion as they pertain to age and sex.

Methods

This was a secondary analysis of the Shock, Whole blood, and Assessment of TBI (traumatic brain injury) trial, a prospective, multicenter observational cohort study where outcomes following LTOWB transfusion were analyzed at seven level 1 trauma centers between 2018 and 2021, as well as a survey on transfusion practices at these centers conducted in 2023. The proportion of patients who received LTOWB or components was examined over the course of the study and grouped by age and sex, and the RhD group of injured CBAFs was documented.

Results

A total of 1046 patients were evaluated: 130 females aged <50 years (CBAFs), 77 females aged ≥50 years; 661 males aged <50 years, and 178 males aged ≥50 years. Among them, 26.2% of CBAFs received RhD-positive LTOWB, whereas 57.1%–66.3% of other sex/age groups received LTOWB. The proportion of CBAFs who received LTOWB increased significantly throughout the 4 years of this study. Except for older women in years 2 and 4, CBAFs were significantly less likely to receive LTOWB than all other groups for the study period and individual years. Among the 33 CBAFs who received LTOWB and for whom an RhD type was available, 4/33 (12.1%) were RhD-negative, while 9/95 (9.5%) CBAFs who received component therapy were RhD-negative. RhD blood product selection practices varied considerably between institutions.

Conclusions

Many institutions transfused LTOWB to CBAFs. Policies regarding RhD product selection varied. Of the total cohort, the proportion of RhD-negative CBAFs who received LTOWB increased over time but remained lower than all other groups.

Level of evidence

3.
Impact of a hybrid coating REBCO-CC-Cu to the resistive wall beam impedance of the FCC-hh beam screen
Authors: Tagdulang Nikki , Günzel Thomas , Krkotić Patrick , Calatroni Sergio , O’Callaghan Juan Manuel , Pont Montse
Published: December 2024

The Future Circular Hadron Collider design studies proposed a novel dual chamber beam screen consisting of copper and stainless steel. However, one concern about the current design is the inherent resistive wall beam impedance of the beam screen, which may not be low enough to guarantee stable beam operation especially critical on the vertical plane. In order to reduce the resistive wall beam impedance as much as possible while keeping the dipole field quality within specifications, a hybrid beam screen consisting of REBCO-CC and Cu is proposed for the inner chamber of the beam screen. We performed a comprehensive position and REBCO-CC content study, leading to an optimum configuration for a REBCO-CC-Cu hybrid design. These studies utilized measured values of REBCO-CC surface impedance obtained under realistic FCC-hh conditions. The calculations were carried out by combining numerical simulations and beam coupling impedance theory for general beam pipe cross sections, where we found a substantial decrease in the vertical resistive wall beam impedance by about an order of magnitude compared to the nominal beam screen design made of copper. Limitations of the proposed design and possible mitigation actions are also discussed.
Numerical investigation on the differential injection angle effects of intrathecal anesthetic drug delivery
Authors: Li Yuzheng , Xu Qiyue , Zhang Xing , Li Fuqi , Zheng Ting , Zheng Chunying , Fan Hanliang , Ye Peng , Du Heng
Published: December 2024

In lumbar anesthesia surgery, the accurate determination of key parameters such as injection angle and dosage is facilitated by the real-time observation of intrathecal drug distribution. In this study, a non-invasive and visual computational fluid dynamics method was used to simulate drug injections in the “cloverleaf” lumbar thoracic segment with a multiphase mixture model, clarifying the intrathecal unsteady flow behaviors and the drug transport mechanisms. The transport properties of three clinically significant injection angles — [Formula: see text], [Formula: see text] and [Formula: see text]— were compared, determining the fastest and slowest block onset angles based on drug concentration levels in the thoracic vertebral plane. The calculation results are aligned with clinical practice trends, and it is found that significantly different drug amounts are required for different injection angles, with higher doses necessitated for ultrasound-assisted anesthesia. During anesthesia, a trend of increasing and then decreasing local anesthetic concentrations in each vertebral plane was observed, with the presence of a minimum effective dose of local anesthetic at the target block site. Injecting at the “concave” part of the cloverleaf ([Formula: see text] and [Formula: see text]) results in greater drug pulsation, faster diffusion and more efficient mixing than injecting at the positive “convex” part of the cloverleaf cross-section ([Formula: see text]). At the L2 vertebral plane, the flow rate and mixing ratios during injection for angles of [Formula: see text], [Formula: see text] and [Formula: see text] were approximately 1:4:2. Compared with orthostatic [Formula: see text] injections, [Formula: see text] and [Formula: see text] oblique injections resulted in higher drug concentrations in the T12-10 vertebral plane during the pre-transport period, with [Formula: see text] injections being the fastest. However, over a longer period of time, [Formula: see text] injections resulted in the lowest drug concentrations in the target block plane (T10), necessitating a higher dose. A faster anesthetic response was produced by [Formula: see text] injections at the same dose. Valuable insights for the application of appropriate drug dosages in clinical anesthesia practice are offered by the calculations.
Analysis of particle settlement characteristics in a one-dimensional deterministic model
Authors: Velázquez-Pérez S. E. , Gilardi-Velázquez H. E. , Campos-Cantón E.
Published: December 2024

In this paper, we investigate how particles settle in a one-dimensional deterministic model. We leverage a model for deterministic Brownian motion and introduce boundary conditions to simulate particle settling. By adjusting parameters in the Jerk equation, we explore how different diffusion, and the size of the settling space affect the particles’ behavior. We analyze how these parameters influence the settling time and its relationship to the dispersion medium. Additionally, we examine statistical properties as follows: the average settling time, the probability distributions for mean displacement, and how the probability distribution of settling times changes with the size of the space.
Computational modeling of the time-fractional Black–Scholes equations and its numerical solution using a fourth-order improvised cubic B-spline collocation method
Authors: Fan Guangyu , Wu Beibei
Published: December 2024

In this paper, an improvised cubic B-spline method (ICSCM) for the time-fractional Black–Scholes model (TFBSM) governing European option pricing is presented. The numerical method utilizes the ICSCM for spatial discretization and employs a finite difference method for temporal discretization. Stability analysis of the scheme is performed using the von Neumann scheme. Also, the method is proved to be convergent of order [Formula: see text] in temporal directions, where [Formula: see text] is order of the fractional derivative. Three test examples verify the effectiveness and accuracy of the proposed method. Numerical and graphical results show that the results obtained by this method to solve the equation are in good agreement with the analytical solution, and achieve smaller error norms and perform better in numerical accuracy.
AI in the cosmos
Authors: Sahakyan N.
Published: December 2024

Artificial intelligence (AI) is revolutionizing research by enabling the efficient analysis of large datasets and the discovery of hidden patterns. In astrophysics, AI has become essential, transforming the classification of celestial sources, data modeling, and the interpretation of observations. In this review, I highlight examples of AI applications in astrophysics, including source classification, spectral energy distribution modeling, and discuss the advancements achievable through generative AI. However, the use of AI introduces challenges, including biases, errors, and the “black box” nature of AI models, which must be resolved before their application. These issues can be addressed through the concept of Human-Guided AI (HG-AI), which integrates human expertise and domain-specific knowledge into AI applications. This approach aims to ensure that AI is applied in a robust, interpretable, and ethical manner, leading to deeper insights and fostering scientific excellence.
Reflections on “Can AI Understand Our Universe?”
Authors: Wang Yu
Published: December 2024

This paper briefly discusses the philosophical and technical aspects of AI. It focuses on two concepts of understanding: intuition and causality, and highlights three AI technologies: Transformers, chain-of-thought reasoning and multi-modal processing. We anticipate that in principle AI could form understanding, with these technologies representing promising advancements.
Strategic Alignment and Duration of Interfirm Relationships
Authors: Liu Sheng
Published: December 2024

Prior studies suggest that strategic alignment in the supply chain (i.e., supply chain partners share similar strategic objectives) helps build trust between the partners, reduce transaction costs, and alleviate coordination problems. We posit that a closer strategic alignment helps strengthen supply chain relationships by making them more durable. We use regulation-mandated major customer disclosures to construct a dataset consisting of supplier-customer dyads to examine this proposition. After controlling for the characteristics of suppliers and customers, we find that greater strategic alignment between suppliers and their customers extends the duration of supply chain relationships. Additionally, we hypothesize that the advantages of strategic alignment should be greater for suppliers in more competitive product markets since customers face lower switching costs when their suppliers are based in industries with more competition. We find support for this hypothesis as well.
Decision-Making for Quality Visibility in Green Supply Chain Based on Blockchain Technology
Authors: Su Qin , Zhang Ziming , Li Feiyun , Zhang Wenbo
Published: December 2024

The enduring uncertainty in product quality within the supply chain significantly impacts the decision-making and performance of green supply chain participants. Blockchain traceability technology creates conditions for the popularity of building quality visibility systems in green supply chains. This paper aims to investigate the quality visibility system mode selection method under different information cost structures. The study identifies a principle stating that a “high expectation of quality does not require high information, while high fluctuation of quality requires high information” in the context of the interplay between two quality dimensions of green products and quality visibility decisions. Furthermore, this study observes a substantial “threshold” effect associated with the rental fee, which means that equilibrium quality visibility rises with increasing rental fees. However, the misalignment between changes in quality visibility and supplier profits, driven by parameter variations, may lead to suboptimal system mode choices by suppliers. In such cases, retailers can play a pivotal role by using unilateral payment mechanisms to incentivize suppliers to adopt choices that enhance overall supply chain visibility and profitability. This study reveals the mechanism by which quality visibility can help improve pricing decisions and enhance firm performance under the influence of information and cost structures of different system modes, and solves the challenges of mode selection and input decision-making when creating green supply chain quality visibility. By scientifically and reasonably applying the quality visibility system, green enterprises can effectively reduce quality risks and promote the stable and efficient operation of the green supply chain.
HEMODYNAMIC PERFORMANCE OF THREE FLOW DIVERTING STENTS FOR TREATMENT OF ABDOMINAL AORTIC ANEURYSM BASED ON A SIMPLIFIED PATIENT-SPECIFIC MODEL: A COMPARISON STUDY
Authors: NADA AYAT , FAKHR MAHMOUD A. , EL-WAKAD MOHAMED TAREK I. , HASSAN MOHAMMED A.
Published: December 2024

In order to avoid aneurysm rupture, flow-diverting stents are deployed. This research presents a simplified patient-specific abdominal aortic model to test and assess the effects of three different not-covered flow-diverting stents (NCFDS): WALLSTENT™ is a commercially available NCFDS, while STENT BS and STENT PFS are numerically designed NCFDSs. Flow characteristics in abdominal aortic aneurysms (AAA) were studied using computational fluid dynamics (CFD) techniques on each stent before and after the procedure. We computed and compared the estimated flow structure, pressure, and wall shear stress (WSS) related indices between the three NCFDSs; these are crucial factors for evaluating aneurysm occlusion and rupture. The minimum estimated flow, pressure, and time average wall shear stress (TAWSS) and the maximum oscillatory shear index (OSI) and endothelial cell action potential (ECAP) are associated with using STENT PFS. Therefore, it may contribute to establishing a thrombus within the aneurysm sac and aneurysm shrinkage.
RESEARCH ON THE LAW AND QUANTIFICATION METHOD OF HUMAN LOWER LIMB GAIT SYNERGY BASED ON ADAPTIVE CPG
Authors: WU XIAOGUANG , SHAN YUZE , NIU XIAOCHEN , ZHONG JUN , XIE CHANGSHEN , PAN RUOXIN , LV GUANGYU
Published: December 2024

In this paper, we proposed a method based on the adaptive Hopf central pattern generator (CPG) to describe and measure the coordination laws of human lower limb movements during walking. Six young, healthy individuals (equal number of males and females) were asked to walk to a metronome beat while we collected angle data of their main joints during normal and two abnormal gaits. We used the Hopf-CPG network to characterize joint angles as amplitude and phase parameters. By examining the lower limb gait characteristics based on these parameters, we revealed the constraint relationship between lower-limb joints. We then used principal component analysis (PCA) to obtain a reduced dimensional description of the coordination characteristics of lower-limb gait, which suggested the existence of coordination characteristics shared by lower limbs during normal human walking at different step frequencies. Finally, we proposed a quantitative scoring method to measure gait coordination based on the coordination constraint law of lower limb joints, which yielded scores ranging from 0 to 1. Our results showed that the mean coordination scores for normal gait (greater than 0.93) were higher than those for toe walking (0.78) and knee-locked walking (0.51), which indicates that our method effectively quantifies lower limb coordination.
Comparative Investigating of Absorption and Sensitivity Parameters in Ammonia Gas Sensors Based on Conducting Polymers
Authors: Aarabi Mokhtar , Kashaninia Alireza , Sarbazi Hamed
Published: December 2024

In this work, we have investigated and compared three important parameters: resistance, absorbance, and sensitivity of the sensitive layer in the ammonia gas sensor made of conductive polymers. Using a simulation based on the Langmuir absorption model, we have examined the changes in resistance, absorbance, and sensitivity of both the pure conducting polymer and the layer doped with carbon nanotubes. We analyzed the results using Matlab software. The findings demonstrate that the addition of carbon nanotubes reduces the resistance and enhances the absorbance and sensitivity.
Comparative Optical Properties of Amorphous and Crystalline MoO3 Films by Spectroscopic Ellipsometry Study
Authors: Jalilli J. N.
Published: December 2024

This paper presents a comprehensive study of the optical properties of amorphous and crystalline MoO3 thin films using spectroscopic ellipsometry. MoO3 films were deposited on SiO2/Si substrates with varying oxide thicknesses using the atomic layer deposition (ALD) method. The study utilized various optical oscillator models, including Lorentz, Tauc–Lorentz and Harmonic, to analyze the dielectric functions and identify midgap states resulting from oxygen deficiencies. The findings highlight significant differences in the optical properties between amorphous and crystalline MoO3 films, demonstrating the impact of structural phases and substrate conditions. Specifically, amorphous films exhibited lower broadening and energy peaks compared to crystalline films, which showed distinct midgap states indicative of higher oxygen vacancy concentrations. These results enhance the understanding of the optical behavior of MoO3 films and their potential applications in advanced optoelectronic devices.
Research on similarity retrieval method based on mass spectral entropy
Authors: Wu Li-Ping , Yong Li , Cheng Xiang , Zhou Yang
Published: December 2024

Compound identification in small molecule research relies on comparing experimental mass spectra with mass spectral databases. However, unequal data lengths often lead to inefficient and inaccurate retrieval. Moreover, the similarity calculation methods used by commercial software have limitations. To address these issues, two mass spectrometry data processing methods namely the “splicing-filling method” and the “matching-filling method” have been proposed. In addition, an information entropy-based similarity calculation method for mass spectra is presented. The alignment method converts mass spectra of different lengths for unknown and known compounds into equal-length mass spectra, allowing more accurate calculation of similarities between mass spectra. Information entropy measurements are used to quantify the differences in intensity distributions in the aligned mass spectral data, which are then used to compare the degree of similarity between different mass spectra. The results of the example validation show that the two data alignment methods can effectively solve the problem of unequal lengths of mass spectral data in similarity calculation. The results of the mass spectral entropy method are reliable and suitable for the identification of mass spectra.
Preparation of Pink Emitting N,S-Co-Doped Carbon Dots and Application for Trace Water Detection and Fluorescent Ink
Authors: Zhao Shun-Sheng , Chen Mei , Xu Tian-Tian , Zhang Shao-Bing , Yang Zai-Wen , Liu Xiang-Rong
Published: December 2024

Nitrogen–sulfur co-doped pink fluorescent carbon dots (N,S-CDs) with uniform structure were successfully synthesized by the one-step solvothermal method using sulfosalicylic acid and [Formula: see text]-phenylenediamine as precursors and ethanol as solvent. Photophysical measurements indicated that N,S-CDs exhibited excitation independence and excellent optical stability, with the fluorescence quantum yield of 12.21% and the fluorescence lifetime of 7.07[Formula: see text]ns. The prepared N,S-CDs solution was estimated to be utilized as fluorescent ink for information encryption, and be used as a fluorescent sensor to detect trace water in organic solvents (anhydrous ethanol, DMF). Furthermore, broad linear detection ranges (0–10%), low limit of detection (e.g., 0.187% for ethanol, 0.179% for DMF) had been achieved with this method. Based on the UV–Vis absorption spectra and fluorescence lifetime evaluation, the proposed mechanism underlying the trace water detection capability of the synthesized carbon dots in organic solvents stems from the interplay between water and fluorophore molecules facilitated by dynamic quenching.
Effect of Thermal Radiation and Heat Source on Transient Hydromagnetic MoS2–Fe3O4–C2H6O2 Hybrid Nanofluid Flow within Coaxial Parallel Disks: A Numerical Study
Authors: Thumma Thirupathi , Mishra S. R. , Ontela Surender , Musala Venkataramana
Published: December 2024

The study of molybdenum disulfide, along with iron oxide, has various promising applications due to its thermal, electrical, and magnetic properties. In particular, for the efficient cooling in power devices, enhanced fluid transport in medical devices, chemical processing, and cancer therapy. The utility of both nanoparticles is vital. Hence, with this motivation, this study aims to investigate the characteristics of dissipative heat influenced by the inclusion of viscous and Joule dissipation in the flow of a hybrid nanofluid comprised of molybdenum disulfide [Formula: see text] and iron oxide [Formula: see text] in the base liquid, ethylene glycol [Formula: see text], within a coaxial permeable disk. The proposed model, encompassing various thermal properties, is transformed into a non-dimensional form by applying appropriate similarity rules. Traditional numerical techniques, such as the shooting-based fourth-order Runge–Kutta method, is employed to obtain solutions. Several profiles are computed for various values of contributing factors within their appropriate ranges employing the numerical scheme implemented in MATLAB. A comparative analysis with previous studies is presented, demonstrating a strong correlation in a specific case and thereby validating the current results.
Ray Tracing of Aluminum Nitride as Anti-Reflective Coating on Silicon for Photovoltaic Devices
Authors: Rosle Mohamad Aliff Asraff , Pakhuruddin Mohd Zamir
Published: December 2024

III-nitride materials have attracted wide interests for optoelectronic and electronic applications due to their unique and tunable semiconducting and optical properties. Aluminum nitride (AlN) exhibits an ultra-wide bandgap of 6.2[Formula: see text]eV and wide transparency window from ultraviolet to mid-infrared, making it a promising candidate as an anti-reflective coating (ARC) material on silicon for photovoltaic (PV) devices. In this work, ray tracing is utilized to investigate the optical properties of AlN ARC on 150[Formula: see text][Formula: see text]m-thick c-Si absorber. AlN with thicknesses of 60–90[Formula: see text]nm are studied and the effects towards light absorption (within 300–1200[Formula: see text]nm wavelength region) and short-circuit current density ([Formula: see text] of the solar cell are analyzed. In the ray tracing, planar c-Si absorber without an ARC is used as a reference. The reference condition exhibits weighted average reflection (WAR) of 39.8% within the 300–1200[Formula: see text]nm wavelength region with [Formula: see text] of 25.49[Formula: see text]mA/cm2. AlN with 80[Formula: see text]nm is found to be the optimum ARC thickness, which leads to the enhanced broadband absorption with WAR of 19.7% within the spectral region. This thickness represents the highest [Formula: see text] achieved in this work (35.71[Formula: see text]mA/cm[Formula: see text].
Distributive Preferences and Fair Water Sharing among Farmers in India
Authors: Ouvrard Benjamin , Reynaud Arnaud , Sivamurthy Murudaiah
Published: December 2024

Using an experimental setting inspired by the empirical social choice literature, we analyze how Indian farmers define fair water allocation. We investigate the choices of 240 Indian farmers who — as a neutral third-party — are asked to make water allocation decisions in situations that differ, such as the agricultural area in which each farmer grows crops, the responsibilities of farmers in each agricultural area, and the nature of their water resource (lake versus river). Our findings highlight the impact of contextual variables: respondents tend to endorse equal water distribution when farmers have identical land sizes but lean toward proportional allocation when differences in land size exist. However, this inclination toward proportional allocation diminishes when discrepancies in land size result from farmers’ own decisions rather than external factors. Additionally, we uncover indications of a link between farmers’ inclinations toward pro-social behavior and their preference for proportional allocation.
The Water Requirements to Feed a Megacity: Explorations for Mexico City with a Multi-regional Input–Output Database
Authors: Morales Carlos A. López
Published: December 2024

Satisfying the demand for food in urbanizing economies increasingly requires complex supply chains spanning large distances and involving several industrial activities. The understanding of the ecological sustainability of these supply chains calls for establishing the links between natural resources, technologies for food production, inter-regional trade and food consumption in urban contexts. This paper explores these links for the case of water in the Mexican economy and the food demand in the Mexico City Metropolitan Area (MCMA), which houses 22 million people and generates a third of Mexico’s national output. This paper quantifies the demand for food in the MCMA, describes the national supply chain generating the output required to meet such demand and estimates its water requirements throughout the country. The method consists of an environmentally extended input–output computation with a multi-regional database describing the Mexican economy as of 2013. This paper finds that the Mexican supply chain satisfying the food demand in the MCMA requires 4.5[Formula: see text] per year of water nationally, 96% of which is utilized by agricultural activities outside the MCMA, even though they are responsible for less than 10% of the supply chain’s economic value. The MCMA is found to be a net importer of embedded water, while the major net exporters are the Mexican States of Hidalgo, Michoacán and Sinaloa. With these findings, this paper contributes to the understanding of the links between water, food and cities with methods and databases from input–output economics.
Public Approval of Water Concessions Policy in Japan: A Probit Model Analysis of Key Influencing Factors
Authors: Harada Shumpei , Watanabe Toshihiro
Published: December 2024

In this study, we investigated and assessed the factors influencing public perception and approval of water concessions in Japan. Specifically, we sought to identify the determinants of public approval of water concessions for two different regions in Japan. Given the lack of research on this topic in the Japanese context, we attempted to fill this gap to facilitate effective policy framing and decision-making regarding water utility management. We conducted a questionnaire survey of 300 residents in Miyagi Prefecture, which introduced concessions for water services, and 300 residents in Western Shizuoka Prefecture, including Hamamatsu City, which indefinitely postponed discussions on the introduction of concessions because of a lack of understanding among residents. Based on the questionnaire survey results, we identified the factors determining public approval of water concessions using a probit model. Comparisons of resident responses revealed no significant differences in approval rates between the two prefectures. Only approximately 10% of residents in both prefectures understood the meaning of public concessions, indicating that the level of awareness among residents was low. The probit model results revealed that the expectations of water services and general trust in the public sector influenced resident approval. Furthermore, older people and women were more likely to disapprove. Endogeneity analysis revealed that understanding of terminology does not necessarily influence approval, indicating that expectations are more significant than knowledge as a determining factor. Ours is the first study to compare resident responses in two prefectures where political judgment was divided regarding water concessions. Our findings are original in terms of identifying little variance in resident responses.