bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Enhancement of Prednisolone efficacy and safety in Duchenne muscular dystrophy via neutrophil elastase inhibition
Authors: Johnson Kirsty A , Jones Fiona K , Ghadiali Rachel S , Lee Gahyun , Luke Torre-Healy A , Sweeney Michael D , Moffitt Richard A , Mamchaoui Kamel , Ricci Emanuele , Young Iain , Pisconti Addolorata
Published: February 2025

Duchenne muscular dystrophy (DMD) is a genetic disorder characterized by muscle wasting, and leading to premature death. The pathogenesis of DMD is complex. It is triggered by loss of the cytoskeletal protein dystrophin, which causes muscle fiber instability and damage, followed by chronic inflammation and fibrotic replacement of damaged muscle tissue. Here we investigated the hypothesis that inhibition of neutrophil elastase, which is increased in dystrophic mice and impairs myogenesis, could provide a therapeutic effect in DMD. While neutrophil elastase inhibition, via the orally bioavailable compound Alvelestat, enhances myogenesis both in vitro and in vivo and reduces muscle damage and fibrosis, it does not produce a significant beneficial effect on the functional outcomes. However, when co-administered with the standard of care Prednisolone, Alvelestat dramatically enhances Prednisolone efficacy in a mouse model of DMD. In key functional tests, the performance of mice co-dosed with Alvelestat and Prednisolone is almost three times better than that of mice treated with Prednisolone alone. Additionally, co-administration of Alvelestat and Prednisolone reduces Prednisolone's negative effects on muscle mass and resistance to fatigue. These findings are consistent with the finding that Prednisolone induces neutrophil elastase expression in patients affected by DMD. Our data support a beneficial role for neutrophil elastase inhibition in a mouse model of DMD that is also treated with Prednisolone, suggesting that a combinatorial therapy for DMD including a corticosteroid and a neutrophil elastase inhibitor could be trialed in humans.
Optimization of multi-UAV systems based on differential game theory and sliding mode control
Authors: Guan Shuai bin , Fu Xingjian
Published: February 2025

Purpose

This study aims to optimize control strategies for multi-unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV) systems by integrating differential game theory with sliding mode control and neural networks. This approach addresses challenges in dynamic and uncertain environments, enhancing UAV system coordination, operational stability and precision under varying flight conditions.

Design/methodology/approach

The methodology combines sliding mode control, differential game theory and neural network algorithms to devise a robust control framework for multi-UAV systems. Using a nonsingular fast terminal sliding mode observer and Nash equilibrium concepts, the approach counters external disturbances and optimizes UAV interactions for complex task execution.

Findings

Simulations demonstrate the effectiveness of the proposed control strategy, showcasing enhanced stability and robustness in managing multi-UAV operations. The integration of neural networks successfully solves high-dimensional Hamilton–Jacobi–Bellman equations, validating the precision and adaptability of the control strategy under simulated external disturbances.

Originality/value

This research introduces a novel control framework for multi-UAV systems that uniquely combines differential game theory, sliding mode control and neural networks. The approach significantly enhances UAV coordination and operational stability in dynamic environments, providing a robust solution to high-dimensional control challenges. The use of neural networks to solve complex Hamilton–Jacobi–Bellman equations for real-time multi-UAV management represents a groundbreaking advancement in autonomous aerial vehicle research.
Differentiation of autistic adults’ perceptions of research by gender: a mixed methods exploration
Authors: Wolpe Samara Merav , Tien Ingrid S. , Lee Nina Maxwell , Sozeri Sila
Published: February 2025

Purpose

The funding breakdown of autism research diverges with the research priorities of the autism community and stakeholders (Putnam et al., 2023), prompting concern about the disconnect between researchers and the autism community (Keating, 2021). This study aims to address this gap in the literature through an exploration of autistic adults’ opinions of the current research landscape and what autism research should address through a survey disseminated to the autistic community.

Design/methodology/approach

In total, 89 autistic adults completed the survey. Participants rated their agreement to statements with a five-point Likert scale, ranging from “Strongly Disagree” to “Strongly Agree.” Participants were asked “What should autism research be focused on?” and answered via long answer text.

Findings

A numerical difference was found in participants’ ratings of autism research as more harmful than helpful. Participants who identified as nonbinary felt the research community was significantly less helpful and more harmful to the autistic community than those who identified as male (p < 0.01). Nonbinary participants expressed that community involvement in autism research is lower than those who identified as males or females (p < 0.01). Six main themes were identified: “Representation of Diversity in Gender and Ethnicity,” “Improving Quality of Life,” “A Strength-Based Approach,” “Autistic Subjective Experiences,” “Comorbid Mental and Physical Health Disorders” and “Autistic People Involved in Research.”

Originality/value

This research identified intersectional relationships between identity and feelings about autism research and explored recommendations from the autistic community on autism research that serves the best interests and desires of the community.
Evolutionary pathways and mechanisms of emerging market firms’ control over GVC core activities: a dynamic capability perspective
Authors: Song Yun , Zhang Ruiqiu , Sun Hui
Published: February 2025

Purpose

The purpose of this paper is to explore how emerging market firms (EMFs), in the face of intense international competition within global value chains (GVCs), continuously accumulate the knowledge and capabilities needed to support leapfrog upgrading. Based on this, this paper aims to construct a process model of the dynamic evolution of EMFs’ control over GVC core activities.

Design/methodology/approach

This paper conducts a longitudinal case study of Ninestar Corporation, a leading company in the Chinese printer industry, to investigate its leapfrog upgrading practices. From the perspective of dynamic capabilities theory, the study explores the dynamic processes and intrinsic mechanisms through which EMFs achieve the evolution of their control over GVC core activities.

Findings

It is revealed that the dual-dimensional expansion of controlling the core activities of GVC from vertical functional architecture to horizontal product architecture is the pathway for manufacturing enterprises in emerging economies to achieve leapfrogging upgrades. It is also found that the dynamic capabilities of EMFs undergo iterative evolution during the upgrading process. The self-reinforcing logic and the path-creation logic of dynamic capabilities are the internal mechanisms for controlling GVC core activities to achieve the breakthrough in both the vertical functional division chain and the horizontal product division chain.

Originality/value

This paper provides an insightful case for how EMFs can achieve leapfrog upgrading in the new normal of global trade patterns. It explores how these firms can gain control over GVC core activities through the evolution of dynamic capabilities. The research findings extend the boundaries of the theory of firm upgrading.
I am, I can, I ought, I will: responsible leadership and the failures of ethics
Authors: Stanberry Joanna
Published: February 2025

Purpose

This paper aims to develop a heuristic ethical stance as a provocation for responsible leadership scholarship and practice within entangled human–environment systems. Through consideration of the failures of ethics – in particular Uyghur mass atrocities and their residues in global supply chains – the stance offers a reflexive pathway between the inner value orientation of leaders and the scope of interconnected interests affected by leader action and inaction.

Design/methodology/approach

Through an autoethnographic narrative, the applied ethic brings together work by the contemporary Holocaust philosopher John Roth with a motto spread by Anglican educational philosopher and social entrepreneur Charlotte Mason (1842–1923). The failures of ethics centre material, sensorial, religious and relational tensions that are explored through three conversational vignettes relating to the current mass atrocities of Uyghur Turkic Muslims in the Xinjiang region of China.

Findings

The resulting ethical stance relates individual personhood to meso and macro levels through Mason’s motto –I am, I can, I ought, I will –and is developed to contain self-reflexivity and identity, conscience informed by testimony, consciousness of the power to protest and resist and intention to pivot. The failures of ethics highlight the apparent centrality of religious ethical traditions to considerations of responsible leadership.

Originality/value

The lack of serious and sustained attention to the ethics in responsible leadership, in particular ethical failures and religious ethics, limits its relevance within entangled systems The paper brings to responsible leadership novel philosophical perspectives to link reflexivity between individual and governance level responses and enliven the imagination of conscience through the ubiquity of complicity.
Tribological behavior and lubrication mechanism of nano g-C3N4 lubricant additive in paraffin oil on bearing steel disk
Authors: Fan Sui-Xin , Yan Xiaoni , Cao Yan , Liu Yi cong , Cao Sheng Wei , Meng Jun-Hu , Guo Junde
Published: February 2025

Purpose

Nano graphitic-carbon nitride (g-C3N4) is an emerging lubrication technology with excellent performance and significant potential for future applications. This study aims to investigate the effect of nano g-C3N4 as a lubricant additive on the wear performance of bearing steel disk.

Design/methodology/approach

Various mass fractions of g-C3N4 were introduced into the base oil. Combining tribological testing, rheological testing and surface analysis methods, the anti-wear properties and lubrication mechanisms were analyzed.

Findings

Transmission electron microscopy images revealed that the size of the nanoparticles of g-C3N4 ranges from 10 to 100 nm. Phase analysis of the g-C3N4 sample was conducted using X-ray diffraction. Further, 1.0% mass fraction of g-C3N4 in the base oil provides excellent anti-wear and friction-reducing performance. Compared to the base oil alone, it reduces the average friction coefficient by 63.8% and decreases the wear rate by 43.1%, significantly reducing the depth and width of the wear scar. Energy-dispersive X-ray spectroscopy and scanning electron microscope analysis revealed that the oil sample containing nano g-C3N4 can form a lubricating film on the sliding surface of bearing steel after wear, which enhances the lubricating properties of the base oil.

Originality/value

The synergistic effect of the base oil and nanoparticles reduces friction and wear and is expected to extend the service life of bearing steel. These findings suggest that incorporating nano g-C3N4 as a lubricant additive offers significant potential for improving the performance of mechanical components.

Peer review

The peer review history for this article is available at: https://publons.com/publon/10.1108/ILT-12-2024-0456/
Justice professionals’ perceptions of trauma informed supervision: a possible solution to the impact of trauma
Authors: O’Neill Catherine , Mozova Katarina
Published: February 2025

Purpose

The purpose of this study is to establish how trauma informed practice (TIP)-based supervision is understood by justice professionals in the UK, as well as how (and whether) it is put to use in the system.

Design/methodology/approach

A predominantly qualitative phenomenological design with supplementary quantitative data was used to gain a holistic understanding of the topic. Police officers (n = 53 survey; n = 5 interview), solicitors/barristers (n = 47 survey; n = 4 interview), intermediaries (n = 56 survey; n = 4 interview) and judges/magistrate (n = 5 interview) were surveyed and/or interviewed.

Findings

Supervision was often misunderstood by professionals as case management. Only police officers noted the existence of supervision, but even that was inconsistent and often inadequate. Other respondents noted a complete lack of supervision. However, the need for it was very apparent as narratives surrounding the traumatic experiences respondents lived through included heavy detail relating to impact on mental health.

Practical implications

At a time when justice system organisations are developing in light of damming reviews, this research calls for embedding TIP-based supervision across all justice system organisations. TIP supervision is key whether professionals are employed (e.g. police) or self-employed (e.g. intermediaries/barristers). TIP supervision needs to be embedded already at the level of initial training, and within a wider TIP context, TIP supervision has to be conducted by adequately trained personnel.

Originality/value

To the best of the authors’ knowledge, this is the first piece of work on TIP-based supervision in the English justice system with implications globally, as literature is sparse – trauma is present in justice systems all around the world.
A new era of succession planning in family businesses
Authors: Abaddi Samer
Published: February 2025

Purpose

This study investigates the influences of socioeconomic, familial and personal, cultural, organizational and technological factors on succession planning within family businesses (FBs). It aims to untangle the complex web these factors weave together, shedding light on their collective impact on the seamless leadership transition from generation to generation.

Design/methodology/approach

The theory of planned behavior (TPB) and systems theory (ST) were utilized in this study. The proposed framework is supported by a purposive quantitative design from 388 FBs in Jordan. The collected data were rigorously assessed using partial least squares-structural equation modeling and importance-performance map analysis.

Findings

Our results have shown that successor characteristics, such as age, gender, education and attitude toward the takeover, strongly affect effective succession planning. Other major factors include strong family relationships, the size of the business and modern digital integration. However, the religious belief variable did not seem to influence succession planning. The results conclude that technological savvy and online community mediating factors support smooth transitions.

Practical implications

Offering a treasure trove of insights, this study equips FB stakeholders with strategic keys to unlock the potential of digital and communal resources in succession planning. It champions a dual approach that venerates age-old family values while embracing the digital age, paving the way for transitions that are not just smooth but also forward-thinking and resilient.

Originality/value

This study harmonizes the TPB with ST to forge an innovative lens through which succession planning in FBs can be viewed. It underscores the burgeoning role of digital integration, communal networks and the potential of AI and GPTs in enriching traditional succession planning paradigms. Given that FBs are significant to the Jordanian economy, this area is under-researched as for many emerging nations.
Investigating Satisfaction and Loyalty of the House‐Owner and the Tenant From Dual Perspectives Using Social Exchange Theory and Stimulus‐Organism‐Response Approach
Authors: Uzir Md Uzir Hossain , Jumaan Ibrahim Ali , Wahab Siti Norida , Amin Mohammad Bin , Bukari Zakari , Shukran Khaled , Ramayah Thurasamy , Ghosh Abhijit , Hassan Hafizah Che
Published: February 2025

The dual effects are noticeable between two groups of people in influencing each other's behavior. This study investigated brand satisfaction and loyalty of electronic home appliances bought by the house‐owners in tenancy tenure; and, similarly, the level of satisfaction and loyalty the house‐owners showed towards the tenants' preferred brands. Data was collected from 262 house owners and 252 tenants (local and foreigners) using a paper‐based questionnaire. These two samples were selected via the purposive (judgmental) sampling technique from Terengganu state, Malaysia. The hypotheses, underpinned by the social exchange theory (SET) and stimulus‐organism‐response (S‐O‐R) theory, were analyzed with the PLS‐SEM (SmartPLS‐v4.0) technique. The findings showed that after‐sales service, brand image, and personal relationships were significant for satisfaction, and satisfaction and social media usage were significant for loyalty in both samples. However, product quality and usage experience were found to be insignificant to the satisfaction of the house owners; contrarily, they were found to be significant to the tenants' satisfaction. In addition, social media usage moderated the relationship between satisfaction and loyalty in both samples. The integration of SET and S‐O‐R provided substantial insight into the dynamic process of brand loyalty in purchasing and repurchasing home appliances. This study offers meaningful insights for business managers, especially brand managers, in considering dual aspects for house owners and tenants.
Homologous amacrine to amacrine gap junction coupling serves communication between neighbour OFF alpha retinal ganglion cells
Authors: Szarka Gergely , Futácsi Anett , Kovács‐Öller Tamás , Völgyi Béla
Published: February 2025

Multiplexed visual coding by retinal ganglion cells (RGCs) has gained much support. Mouse transient OFF alpha RGCs (tOFFα RGCs) are excellent subjects to study this issue as they form direct RGC–RGC gap junctions (GJs) that serve spike synchronization, population coding and likely information multiplexing. In addition, tOFFα RGCs maintain GJs with a population of wide‐field amacrine cells (ACs) that have been suspected to mediate an additional, loose medium‐scale correlation of tOFFα RGC spikes. However, the spatial and temporal constraints of the GJ‐mediated AC–RGC signalling have yet to be tested directly via a combination of morphological and functional approaches. Here we show that AC‐mediated medium‐scale spike correlations are strongly related to spike bursts. On the other hand, our data also show that coupled ACs’ somata form spatially separated clusters each overlapping with only a single tOFFα RGC dendritic arbour suggesting the existence of GJ‐coupled tOFFα RGC–AC functional units. This finding seemingly argues against the hypothesis that ACs distribute common noise for burst‐based medium‐scale RGC spike correlations. However, we also found a high incidence of AC–AC GJ connections thereby forming the morphological substrate for the interconnection of functional units to correlate spike bursts on a medium time scale. These data thus suggest that besides encoding visual information by a single cell, tOFFα RGCs utilize RGC–RGC GJs to directly connect RGCs as well as AC–AC GJs to interconnect tOFFα RGC functional units to mediate two forms of population codes via precise spike synchronization and loose burst correlations, respectively.

image

Key points

Approach detector retinal ganglion cells (RGCs) and their electrically coupled amacrine cells (ACs) show morphological attributes of functional units.

These coupled ACs and RGCs share their main excitatory drive.

RGC–AC gap junctions underlie the generation of RGC action potential bursts.

AC–AC gap junctions interconnect neighbouring RGC functional units to correlate spike bursts and underlie medium‐scale spike correlations.

These results broaden our understanding of feature detection mechanisms in the retinal circuitry, the prerequisite of next generation retina prostheses.
Individual and Neighborhood Characteristics of Walking Activity in People Living With Dementia: A Proof of Concept for Quantitative Spatial Analysis
Authors: Nouri Mohammadjavad , Chaudhury Habib
Published: February 2025

Background/Objectives: Creating dementia-friendly neighborhoods is crucial for enhancing outdoor walking activity and maintaining social participation among people living with dementia (PLWD). This study utilizes GPS and geographic information system technologies to conduct a quantitative spatial analysis, revealing how individual and neighborhood characteristics are associated with PLWD’s walking activity characteristics. Methods: Twenty-five participants from Metro Vancouver had their regular walking routes (RWR) from home to neighborhood destinations recorded using GPS technology. Spatial analysis tools and existing survey data were utilized to construct the research geodatabase. Nonparametric tests (Spearman’s rank correlation, Kendall’s tau, and Mann–Whitney) and parametric tests (Pearson correlation and point biserial) assessed associations between independent variables, including sociodemographic characteristics of participants (e.g., age and health) and their neighborhoods (e.g., age structure and language barriers), and built environment features (e.g., land use diversity), with two dependent variables: length of RWR and walking time to regular destination within the 20-min walkshed. Results: Longer RWR and increased walking time to regular destination within the 20-min walkshed are associated with fewer physical health limitations, gentler terrain, proximity to green spaces, and bus stops. In addition, higher land use diversity, proximity to secondary streets, integrated sidewalks, higher number of benches and intersections, and a slight street network curvature showed positive associations with RWR length and walking time to regular destination within the 20-min walkshed. Conclusion: GPS and geographic information system technologies provide a unique quantitative method for understanding mobility patterns among PLWD. While limited by participant numbers, this exploratory study provides directions for future investigations. Significance/Implications: This study offers insights into designing dementia-friendly neighborhoods that support social engagement and physical activity among PLWD.
Successful Rehabilitation Following Stem Cell Therapy for Large Knee Osteochondritis Dissecans in an Adolescent Wrestler
Authors: Park Han Soo , Oh Jae Keun
Published: February 2025

Context: Detailed rehabilitation protocols after stem cell treatment are lacking. This case highlights the rehabilitation of a patient treated with human umbilical cord blood-derived mesenchymal stem cell implantation for a large osteochondritis dissecans lesion of the knee. Case presentation: A 17-year-old male adolescent wrestler experienced persistent left knee pain for 1 year, unresponsive to 6 months of conservative treatment. MRI revealed a large osteochondritis dissecans lesion (38 × 18 mm) in the lateral femoral condyle, which was treated with human umbilical cord blood-derived mesenchymal stem cell implantation. Management and outcomes: Rehabilitation was conducted in 4 phases. The protection phase (1–8 wk) emphasized weight-bearing restrictions, continuous passive motion, and early gait training. The gait recovery phase (9–12 wk) incorporated stationary cycling and open kinetic chain exercises. During the maturation phase (13–24 wk), maximal strength and proprioception exercises were introduced with antigravity treadmill running. The final recovery phase (24–52 wk) focused on plyometric drills and sport-specific activities. Team training resumed at 32 weeks, and return to full competitive training occurred at 52 weeks. The limb symmetry index for isokinetic knee-extensor strength and single-leg hop test reached 95.2% and 97.9%, respectively, by 12 months, indicating near-complete functional recovery. The modified MRI of cartilage repair tissue score improved from 40 to 60 points between 1 and 3 years postsurgery. Second-look arthroscopy revealed an International Cartilage Repair Society grade 1 at 35 months. International Knee Documentation Committee scores increased from 17.2 preoperatively to 98.9 at 2 years, while visual analog scale scores decreased from 10 to 2 over 3 years. Conclusions: Accelerated weight bearing, early gait training, and phased strength exercises facilitated substantial improvements in function and cartilage healing in an adolescent wrestler with a large osteochondritis dissecans lesion. Further studies with larger cohorts are recommended to confirm these findings.
Student and Teacher Experiences and Perceptions of “Make Basketball Count” – a Program That Delivers Integrated Basketball and Numeracy Lessons for Primary Schools
Authors: Riley Nicholas , Sanctuary Colin , Drew Ryan , Robinson Katie
Published: February 2025

Purpose: Physical activity is beneficial for children’s health and well-being, but competing demands on schools has reduced the amount of time children are active. Integrating physical activity into the school curriculum has shown promise for improving educational outcomes including enjoyment, engagement, and perceived well-being. This study evaluated the feasibility of the Make Basketball Count program, which combined basketball skills with mathematics concepts. Methods: Grade 3 students (n = 104, aged 9–11 years) from two schools participated in the program, consisting of six weekly physically active math lessons using basketball as a stimulus delivered by qualified teachers and a basketball development officer. Students and teachers completed program evaluation questionnaires. Students also completed semistructured interviews through focus groups. Results: Positive feedback was received regarding program enjoyment, engagement, and perceived benefits (health, well-being, and confidence). Discussion: This study provides preliminary evidence that the program was feasible for delivery in primary schools. A randomized controlled trial is recommended to determine the impact of the program.
Invisible matter, invisible brains?
Authors: Lawrence Andy
Published: February 2025

Cosmology finds itself in a paradoxical situation. We know everything and nothing. After years of accumulating evidence and debate, there is a consensus model about the makeup of the cosmos, known as Lambda Cold Dark Matter (ΛCDM), for reasons explored below. The Universe seems to have no spatial curvature, is clumpy on small scales but smooth on large scales, and is expanding at a well-measured but accelerating rate. The contents of the Universe are divided between ordinary matter, dark matter, and dark energy. This phenomenological model is
exquisitely constrained by observations
, but it is not known what dark matter and dark energy actually are or why the Universe is this way.
Macroscopic dynamics of the antiferroelectric smectic $$Z_\textrm{A}$$ phase and its magnetic analog $$Z_\textrm{M}$$
Authors: Brand Helmut R. , Pleiner Harald
Published: February 2025

We analyze the macroscopic dynamics of antiferroelectric smectic

$$Z_\textrm{A}$$

Z
A

and antiferromagnetic smectic

$$Z_\textrm{M}$$

Z
M

liquid crystals. The smectic

$$Z_\textrm{A}$$

Z
A

phase is characterized by antiferroelectric order in one direction in the planes of the smectic layers giving rise to an orthogonal biaxial overall symmetry without polar direction. Thus in sufficiently thick (bulk) samples without externally applied electric fields, globally

$$D_{2h}$$

D

2
h

symmetry results. Therefore, the macroscopic dynamics of the smectic

$$Z_\textrm{A}$$

Z
A

is isomorphic to that of the McMillan phase and one can take over the corresponding results in the field-free limit. This also applies to the defect structure in the sense that one can expect the appearance of half-integer defects as they have also been observed for the McMillan phase. Based on the fact that ferromagnetic nematic liquid crystals are known for about a decade, it seems natural to investigate the antiferromagnetic analog of the smectic

$$Z_\textrm{A}$$

Z
A

phase, which we denote as

$$Z_\textrm{M}$$

Z
M

in the present paper. In this phase, one also has an in-plane preferred direction, which is, however, not like a director in an ordinary nematic, but odd under time reversal. It can be characterized by a staggered magnetization,

$${\varvec{N}}$$

N

, just as in a solid antiferromagnet like MnO. As additional macroscopic variables when compared to a usual non-polar smectic A phase, we have the in-plane staggered magnetization and the magnetization

$${\varvec{M}}$$

M

. As a consequence, we find that spin waves (frequently called anti-magnons in solids) become possible. Therefore, we have for the antiferromagnetic smectic phase,

$$Z_\textrm{M}$$

Z
M

, three pairs of propagating modes: first and ‘second’ sound as in usual smectic A phases and one pair of spin waves. The coupling between ‘second’ sound and spin waves is also analyzed leading to the possibility to excite spin waves by dynamic layer compressions and, vice versa, to generate ‘second’ sound by temporally varying magnetic fields. We note, however, that without additional mechanical or magnetic deformations, the coupling between spin waves on the one hand and first and second sound on the other is a higher order effect in the wave vector

$$\textbf{q} $$

q

. We also analyze the question of antiferroelectricity and antiferromagnetism for nematic liquid crystals.

Graphical abstract
Development of an epithermal and fast neutron target station for the High Brilliance Neutron Source
Authors: Schmidt Norberto Sebastián , Shabani Doruntin , Li Jingjing , Zakalek Paul , Mauerhofer Eric , Dawidowski Javier , Gutberlet Thomas
Published: February 2025

The conceptual design of an epithermal and fast neutron target–moderator–reflector (TMR) unit for the High Brilliance Neutron Source (HBS) project is presented. A total of 450 simulations with the Monte Carlo code were analyzed to explore different combinations and thicknesses of pre-moderator and moderator materials. For each case, the highest epithermal outgoing neutron current at the end of an extraction channel was obtained. Analysis of the outgoing current density showed that the neutron spectra are independent of the proton pulse width, while the integral outgoing current is proportional to the pulse width, indicating a trade-off between the time resolution obtained and the neutron flux per pulse expected at the sample position. The neutron time distribution analysis showed that

$$\hbox {D}_2$$

D
2

O as pre-moderator, combined with

$$\hbox {D}_2$$

D
2

O, 7LiF or graphite as moderators, will provide a competitive epithermal neutron current. The averaged epithermal and fast values obtained for the 96 Hz station and 167 

$$\upmu $$

μ

s proton pulse width are

$$9 \times 10^{9}\,\hbox {cm}^{-2}\,\hbox {s}^{-1}$$

9
×

10
9

cm

-
2

s

-
1

and

$$2 \times 10^{10}\,\hbox {cm}^{-2}\,\hbox {s}^{-1}$$

2
×

10
10

cm

-
2

s

-
1

for the epithermal and fast neutron extraction channels, respectively, with reductions expected for short proton pulses in burst-mode operation.
Simulating rotating newtonian universes
Authors: Pál Balázs , Goh Tze , Rácz Gábor , Szapudi István
Published: February 2025

We present the results of a novel type of numerical simulation that realizes a rotating Universe with a shear-free, rigid body rotation inspired by a Gödel-like metric. We run cosmological simulations of unperturbed glasses with various degrees of rotation in the Einstein–de Sitter and the

$$\Lambda$$

Λ

CDM cosmologies. To achieve this, we use the N-body code capable of simulating the infinite Universe, overcoming the technical obstacles of classical toroidal (periodic) topologies that would otherwise prevent us from running such simulations. Results show a clear anisotropy between the polar and equatorial expansion rates with more than

$$1~\%$$

1

%

deviation from the isotropic case for maximal rotation without closed timeline curves within the horizon,

$$\omega _{0} \approx 10^{-3}$$

ω
0

≈

10

-
3

$$\hbox {Gyr}^{-1}$$

Gyr

-
1

; a considerable effect in the era of precision cosmology.
Numerically optimal study of a polygonal cellular metamaterial with auxetic effect: Energy absorption aspect and compression characteristics
Authors: Xie Weibo , Wang Shangbin , Xue Fengling , Biczo Andras , Zhao Zhimin , Feng Ning
Published: February 2025

This study investigates the specific energy absorption (SEA) capacity and auxetic behavior of the PCSs subjected to the low-velocity impact (LVI). VeroWhite resin is selected as the base material. Instead of traditional energy absorption studies conducted across varying loading velocities or cyclic layers, we investigate the PCSs’ energy absorption capacity through a parametric study employing an orthogonal design. Three structural geometric parameters are considered as factors, with each factor comprising four levels. The orthogonal table yields 16 unique combinations, corresponding to 16 PCSs with distinct geometries. The collective SEA assessment of these combinations identifies the “optimum combination”, whose exceptional SEA capacity demonstrates the feasibility of the proposed approach for tailoring the SEA properties of cellular structures. Additionally, the findings reveal that incorporating a convex feature into the geometry of conventional re-entrant honeycomb structures significantly influences their energy absorption capabilities. This work introduces a new and simple method for conducting parametric studies on the mechanical properties of cellular structures, enabling the identification of peak values. The employed strategy also holds promise for investigating the acoustic and thermal properties of honeycomb structures.
Synthesis and photoluminescence in LiTi2 (PO4)3:Eu3+, Tb3+ phosphor prepared by solid state metathesis
Authors: Ansari Esarat , Patle Shruti , Pusdekar Ashvini , Ugemuge Nilesh , Mistry A. A. , Dhoble S. J.
Published: February 2025

A series of singly and co-doped LiTi2(PO[Formula: see text]:Eu[Formula: see text], Tb[Formula: see text] phosphors prepared by solid state metathesis (SSM) was reported the first time. The X-Ray diffraction (XRD) verified that the as-prepared materials exhibit a pure rhombohedral phase with a space group of P21/m. Scanning electron microscopy (SEM), Energy Dispersive X-ray analysis (EDAX) and elemental mapping confirm the morphology and constituents of elements. The LiTi2(PO[Formula: see text]:Eu[Formula: see text] shows 614[Formula: see text]nm red emission obtained due to the 5D[Formula: see text]L6 transition under 393[Formula: see text]nm excitation and the Tb[Formula: see text] doped sample gives 546[Formula: see text]nm green emission ascribed to 5D[Formula: see text]F5 for excitation of 376[Formula: see text]nm. The luminescence properties of Eu[Formula: see text]/Tb[Formula: see text] doped LiTi2(PO[Formula: see text] phosphors excited under a UV source were investigated and the relative mechanism was analyzed. Upon excitation by 393[Formula: see text]nm, the LiTi2(PO[Formula: see text]:EuxTby phosphor has the capability to generate vivid green, yellow and red emissions, with color tunability achieved through the modulation of dopant ion concentrations. Color chromaticity of LiTi2(PO[Formula: see text]:Eu[Formula: see text]Tb[Formula: see text] gives at [Formula: see text], [Formula: see text] and [Formula: see text] [Formula: see text]K. The proposed simple, low-cost, nontoxic and rapid synthesis route of phosphate-based compounds will lead the way to access these LiTi2(PO[Formula: see text]:Eu[Formula: see text]/Tb[Formula: see text] phosphors for potential applications in w-light-emitting diodes and plasma display panel.
Enhancement in the stability of perovskite solar cells with Cs-based optimized hybrid nanocomposites
Authors: Shahid Muhammad , Javed Hafiz Muhammad Asif , Anwar Hafeez , Iqbal Javed
Published: February 2025

Perovskite solar cells have higher efficiency and low cost as compared to other available commercial solar cells however due to large advantages it is not available commercially because it has very low stability which is nearly equal to one year. So to enhance the stability, different types of Cs-based optimized hybrid nanocomposites are used. Sol–gel and hydrothermal methods were used to prepare the Cs-nanocomposites. The crystallinity, surface morphology, elemental composition, thermal stability and nanocomposites’ absorbance were observed using X-ray diffraction, scanning electron microscope, energy dispersive X-ray, thermo gravimetric analysis, ultraviolet-visible (UV–Vis) and Raman spectroscopy techniques. This research work consents successfully for the synthesis of nanocomposites and enhancement in stability of perovskite substantial-based absorber layer. During analysis of TGA, only 2.5% of the weight of Cs-nanocomposites lost their total weight and J-V properties such as [Formula: see text] and power conversion efficiency of PSCs remarkably increased by nearly 3[Formula: see text]mAcm[Formula: see text] and 4%, respectively by using Cs-based NCs.
Ferroelectric phase transitions in the small particles in constrained conditions
Authors: Nechaev V. N. , Shuba A. V.
Published: February 2025

The contribution of depolarizing electric fields and internal stress fields to the thermodynamics of phase transitions in a ferroelectric–dielectric composite material has been found. This contribution leads to renormalization [Formula: see text] and [Formula: see text] coefficients in the decomposition into a series of the order parameters for thermodynamic potential. It has been established that electric fields always decrease the phase transition temperature. The internal stresses can both increase or decrease the temperature of a first-order phase transition and the width of temperature hysteresis. In the case of the first-order transitions, internal stresses can cause a change in the order of phase transition with appropriate material parameters.
Characterizing Smart Contract Evolution
Authors: Chen Xiangping , Qian Ziang , Liao Peiyong , Huang Yuan , Yang Changlin , Zheng Zibin
Published: February 2025

Smart contracts are programs that permanently store and automatically execute on the blockchain system such as Ethereum. Due to the non-tamperable nature of the underlying blockchain, smart contracts are difficult to update once deployed, which requires redeploying the contracts and migrating the data. It means that the observation of smart contract evolution in the real world makes more sense. Hence, in this paper, we conducted the first large-scale empirical study to characterize the evolution of smart contracts in Ethereum. For evolution identification, we presented a contract similarity-based search algorithm, digEvolution, and evaluated its effectiveness with five different search strategies. Then we applied this algorithm to 80,152 on-chain contracts we collected from Ethereum, to dig out the evolution among these contracts. We then explored three research questions. We first studied whether the evolution of smart contracts is common (RQ1), then we studied how do the Gas consumption (RQ2) and the vulnerability (RQ3) of smart contracts vary during the evolution. Our research results show that the evolution of smart contracts is not very common. There are some contract components that have vulnerability but still be called by users. The Gas consumption of most smart contracts doesn’t vary during the evolution, contract is Gas-efficient before and after the evolution. The vulnerability of most smart contracts doesn’t vary during the evolution, both are secure before and after the evolution.
Deep learning-based cryptanalysis in recovering the secret key and plaintext on lightweight cryptography
Authors: Fatma Yulia , Remli Muhammad Akmal , Mohamad Mohd Saberi , Al Amien Januar
Published: February 2025

The development of machine learning (ML) technologies provide a new development direction for cryptanalysis. Several ML research in the field of cryptanalysis was carried out to identify the cryptographic algorithm used, find out the secret key, and even recover the secret message The first objective of this study is to see how much influence optimization and activation function have on the multi-layer perceptron (MLP) model in performing cryptanalysis. The second research objective, which is to compare the performance of cryptanalysis in recovering keys and the plaintext. Several experiments have been carried out, the observed parameters found that the use of the rectified linear unit (ReLU) activation function and the ADAM optimizer improves the performance of deep learning (DL)-based cryptanalysis as evidenced by a significantly smaller error rate. DL-based cryptanalysis works more effectively in recovering keys than recovering plaintext. DL-based cryptanalysis managed to recover the keys with an average loss of 0.007, an average of 49 epochs, and an average time of 0.178 minutes.
A comparative analysis of GPUs, TPUs, DPUs, and QPUs for deep learning with python
Authors: Allali Ayoub , El Falah Zineb , Sghir Ayoub , Abouchabaka Jaafar , Rafalia Najat
Published: February 2025

In the rapidly evolving field of deep learning, the computational demands for training sophisticated models have escalated, prompting a shift towards specialized hardware accelerators such as graphics processing units (GPUs), tensor processing units (TPUs), data processing units (DPUs), and quantum processing units (QPUs). This article provides a comprehensive analysis of these heterogeneous computing architectures, highlighting their unique characteristics, performance metrics, and suitability for various deep learning tasks. By leveraging python, a predominant programming language in the data science domain, the integration and optimization techniques applicable to each hardware platform is explored, offering insights into their practical implications for deep learning research and application. the architectural differences that influence computational efficiency is examined, parallelism, and energy consumption, alongside discussing the evolving ecosystem of software tools and libraries that support deep learning on these platforms. Through a series of benchmarks and case studies, this study aims to equip researchers and practitioners with the knowledge to make informed decisions when selecting hardware for their deep learning projects, ultimately contributing to the acceleration of model development and innovation in the field.
A novel approach for generating physiological interpretations through machine learning
Authors: Islam Md. Jahirul , Adnan Md. Nasim , Siddique Md. Moradul , Ema Romana Rahman , Hossain Md. Alam , Galib Syed Md.
Published: February 2025

Predicting blood glucose trends and implementing suitable interventions are crucial for managing diabetes. Modern sensor technologies enable the collection of continuous glucose monitoring (CGM) data along with diet and activity records. However, machine learning (ML) techniques are often used for glucose level predictions without explicit physiological interpretation. This study introduces a method to extract physiological insights from ML-based glucose forecasts using constrained programming. A feed-forward neural network (FFNN) is trained for glucose prediction using CGM data, diet, and activity logs. Additionally, a physiological model of glucose dynamics is optimized in tandem with FFNN forecasts using sequential quadratic programming and individualized constraints. Comparisons between the constrained response and ML predictions show higher root mean square error (RMSE) in certain intervals for the constrained approach. Nevertheless, Clarke error grid (CEG) analysis indicates acceptable accuracy for the constrained method. This combined approach merges the generalization capabilities of ML with physiological insights through constrained optimization.
RNN-driven integration of spatial, temporal, features for Indian sign language recognition and video captioning
Authors: Pol Ajay Manohar , Patil Shrinivas A.
Published: February 2025

This paper presents a novel model that integrates spatial features from residual blocks and temporal features from FFT, alongside a sophisticated RNN architecture comprising BiLSTM, gated recurrent units (GRU) layers, and multi-head attention. Achieving nearly 99% accuracy on both WLASL and INCLUDE datasets, this model outperforms standard CNN pretrained models in feature extraction. Notably, the BiLSTM and GRU combination proves superior to other combinations such as LSTM and GRU. The BLEU score analysis further validates the model's efficacy, with scores of 0.51 and 0.54 on the WLASL and INCLUDE datasets, respectively. These results affirm the model's proficiency in capturing intricate spatial and temporal nuances inherent in sign language gestures, enhancing accessibility and communication for the deaf and hard-of-hearing communities. The comparison highlights the superiority of this paper's proposed model over standard approaches, emphasizing the significance of the integrated architecture. Continued refinement and optimization hold promise for further augmenting the model's performance and applicability in real-world scenarios, contributing to inclusive communication environments.
Performance evaluation of transdermal optical wireless communication using spatial diversity techniques
Authors: Almajdoubah Rawan , Hasan Omar
Published: February 2025

Active medical implants and other contemporary medical applications need a dependable, high-speed communication channel between external and internal transceivers. Optical wireless communications have demonstrated advantages over widely used radio frequency technology in terms of data speeds, bandwidth abundance, and immunity to interference. Regretfully, this advantage implies strict alignment requirements for both sending and receiving ends. This study focuses on the effects of using multiple transmitters or receivers under the influence of pointing error on the transcutaneous link's overall performance measured by the outage probability and outage rate. Spatial diversity techniques have demonstrated their viability in increasing the link's reliability in free space optical communications. This drives the investigation of improvement transdermal communication system by adding numerous transmitters or receivers. Various misalignment severities are used to represent different operating circumstances, and these analyses result in explicit closed-form formulas for the relevant metrics. The findings clearly show the benefits of employing multiple transmitters and receivers on the link's outage performances. A notable improvement in the average signal-to-noise ratio values for the outage probability and outage rate compared to the single input single output setup was achieved. Furthermore, the theoretical conclusions are subsequently confirmed by MATLAB-based Monte-Carlo simulation for several instructive cases.