bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
High-throughput phase field simulation and machine learning for predicting the breakdown performance of all-organic composites
Authors: Liu Dong-Duan , Li Qiao , Zhu Yu-Jie , Jiang Bingxu , Zeng Tan , Yang Hongxiao , He Jin-Liang , Li Qi , Yuan Chao
Published: July 2024

All-organic dielectric polymers are materials of choice for modern power electronics and high-density energy storage, and their performance can be significantly improved by doping trace amounts of organic molecular semiconductors with strong electron-affinity energy to suppress charge conduction losses. Insight into the breakdown mechanism of polymers/organic molecular semiconductor composites is essential for the design of high-performance dielectric polymers. This study investigates the impact of the doping concentration of organic molecular semiconductors, dielectric constants, and trap depths on the breakdown performance of dielectric polymers under high temperature and electric fields. A modified phase-field model, incorporating deep traps and carriers’ coulomb capture radius, has been developed to facilitate high-throughput simulations of electrical breakdown in polymer/organic molecular semiconductor composites. This work accurately predicted the breakdown strength of all-organic composites using high-throughput phase-field simulation data as input for machine learning, which provides crucial theoretical support for designing all-organic composite dielectric polymers for energy storage capacitors under extreme conditions.
Magnetic interaction in Sr0.7La0.3Fe11.75Co0.25O19–CoFe2O4 composite system: observation, evidence, and influence
Authors: Rout Sushree Nibedita , Das Tupan , Shukla Anant , Kar Manoranjan
Published: July 2024

(100-x) Sr0.7La0.3Fe11.75Co0.25O19–(x) CoFe2O4 composites were synthesized by the one pot sol–gel auto-combustion method. The individual phase purity, morphology, and magnetic hysteresis loop of the composite magnet were analyzed by x-ray powder diffraction, field emission scanning electron microscopy and vibrating sample magnetometer, respectively. The apparent observation of the room temperature hysteresis loop indicates the existence of interfacial exchange interactions. Nevertheless, saturation magnetization (Ms
) follows the trend of Vegard’s law. The nature of magnetic interaction and its dependency on the amount of each phase were analyzed by employing the Thamm–Hesse plot. The critical size of the soft phase particle did not corroborate with the results of

Δ
M

 

v
s

 

H

plot. However, this synthesis method is found to be successful in obtaining single-step magnetization reversal in hard–soft composite magnets. The deviation from ideal non-interacting Stoner–Wohlfarth particles puts the single hard phase into the limelight. The (BH)max in the range of 1.07–0.98 MGOe has been obtained for the synthesized composite magnet.
Importance of growth method and substrate-induced crystalline quality in Al/Gd0.2Ca0.8MnO3/Au memristor devices
Authors: Angervo I , Antola A , Vaimala T , Malmi A , Schulman A , Huhtinen H , Paturi P
Published: July 2024

We report on the impact of the growth method and substrate-induced crystalline quality on the performance of planar Al/Gd0.2Ca0.8MnO3/Au memristor devices. Structural, magnetic, and resistive properties were thoroughly examined for fundamental characterizations, with a particular emphasis on their correlation with the memristive properties of fabricated devices. Our findings suggest that memristor structures grown on single crystal SrTiO3 substrates using pulsed laser deposition (PLD) consistently exhibit superior crystalline quality compared to those fabricated using chemical solution deposition and on silicon-based substrates. Despite variations in growth method and substrate, all memristor structures display typical resistive switching (RS) behaviour, distinguishing between high-resistance and low-resistance states. However, endurance and retention measurements demonstrate that memristor structures produced via PLD on single crystalline SrTiO3 demonstrate the most favourable RS properties. To elucidate the mechanisms underlying the differences in RS behavior across substrates and deposition methods, we extensively discuss these issues in the context of structural distortion and conduction mechanisms.
Spin-momentum properties of the spin–orbit interactions of light at optical interfaces
Authors: Chen Jie , Tan Yawei , Wang Rong , Zhou Qiang , Cao Yong , Ling Xiaohui
Published: July 2024

The spin–orbit interaction (SOI) of light manifests as the generation of spin-dependent vortex beams when a spin-polarized beam strikes an optical interface normally. However, the spin-momentum nature of this SOI process remains elusive, which impedes further manipulation. Here, we systematically investigate the spin-momentum properties of the transmitted beam in this SOI process using a full-wave theory. The transmitted beam has three components, a spin-maintained normal mode, a spin-reversed abnormal mode, and a longitudinal component. By decomposing the total spin angular momentum (SAM) into the transverse SAM (T-SAM) and the helicity dependent longitudinal SAM (L-SAM), we demonstrate that the L-SAM dominates the total SAM of the normal mode, while the T-SAM dictates that of the abnormal mode. The underlying physics is that the normal mode exhibits a much larger weight than the longitudinal field, while the abnormal mode has a weight comparable to the longitudinal field. This study enriches the understanding of the spin-momentum nature of light’s SOI and offers new opportunities for manipulating light’s angular momentum.
Design of phononic crystals using superposition of defect and gradient-index for enhanced wave focusing
Authors: Shen N , Cong Y , Gu S T , Zhang G Y , Feng Z-Q
Published: July 2024

This paper introduces a novel design strategy for phononic crystals (PnCs) that significantly enhances their wave amplification and focusing capabilities, making them highly suitable for energy harvesting applications. The superposition strategy is based on the combination of two distinct wave tuning techniques: defect PnCs implementation and gradient-index (GRIN) structure designs. The two techniques are based on different mechanisms and are commonly considered independently for wave manipulation applications. In particular, defect PnCs incorporate structural or material irregularities within periodic PnCs, enabling waves of certain frequencies, typically blocked by the bandgap, to pass through and emerge with amplified amplitude at the defect location. In contrast, the GRIN technique utilizes gradient structures that induce refractive effect to the wave propagation, focusing the wave at a pre-determined location. The PnC design strategy that we propose combines the wave amplifying effect of defect PnCs in conjunction with the wave focusing effect of the GRIN mechanism. This combination leads to substantial performance improvement, with enhancement factors of 2.6 and 4.1, in comparison with individually implemented defect or gradient models, respectively. These results open up new possibilities for the development of PnCs with the goal of tuning wave propagation for optimized vibration energy harvesters.
Direct observation of shock-induced phase transformation in polycrystalline iron via in situ x-ray diffraction
Authors: Zhang 张 Fan 帆 , Dong 董 Jia-Qin 佳钦 , Xie 谢 Zhi-Yong 志勇 , He 贺 Zhi-Yu 芝宇 , Shu 舒 Hua 桦 , Wang 王 Rui-Rong 瑞荣 , Xiong 熊 Jun 俊 , Jia 贾 Guo 果 , Fang 方 Zhi-Heng 智恒 , Wang 王 Wei 伟 , Xiao 肖 Da-Wu 大武 , Lei 雷 An-Le 安乐 , Chen 陈 Jie 洁 , Huang 黄 Xiu-Guang 秀光
Published: July 2024

Phase transition of polycrystalline iron compressed along the Hugoniot is studied by combining laser-driven shock with in situ x-ray diffraction technique. It is suggested that polycrystalline iron changes from an initial body-centered cubic structure to a hexagonal close-packed structure with increasing pressure (i.e., a phase transition from α to ε). The relationship between density and pressure for polycrystalline iron obtained from the present experiments is found to be in good agreement with the gas-gun Hugoniot data. Our results show that experiments with samples at lower temperatures under static loading, such as in a diamond anvil cell, lead to higher densities measured than those found under dynamic loading. This means that extrapolating results of static experiments may not predict the dynamic responses of materials accurately. In addition, neither the face-centered cubic structure seen in previous molecular-dynamics simulations or two-phase coexistence are found within our experimental pressure range.
Electronic structure engineering of transition metal dichalcogenides for boosting hydrogen energy conversion electrocatalysts
Authors: Hao 郝 Bing 兵 , Guo 郭 Jingjing 晶晶 , Liu 刘 Peizhi 培植 , Guo 郭 Junjie 俊杰
Published: July 2024

Electrocatalytic water splitting for hydrogen production is an appealing strategy to reduce carbon emissions and generate renewable fuels. This promising process, however, is limited by its sluggish reaction kinetics and high-cost catalysts. The two-dimensional (2D) transition metal dichalcogenides (TMDCs) have presented great potential as electrocatalytic materials due to their tunable bandgaps, abundant defective active sites, and good chemical stability. Consequently, phase engineering, defect engineering and interface engineering have been adopted to manipulate the electronic structure of TMDCs for boosting their exceptional catalytic performance. Particularly, it is essential to clarify the local structure of catalytically active sites of TMDCs and their structural evolution in catalytic reactions using atomic resolution electron microscopy and the booming in situ technologies, which is beneficial for exploring the underlying reaction mechanism. In this review, the growth regulation, characterization, particularly atomic configurations of active sites in TMDCs are summarized. The significant role of electron microscopy in the understanding of the growth mechanism, the controlled synthesis and functional optimization of 2D TMDCs are discussed. This review will shed light on the design and synthesis of novel electrocatalysts with high performance, as well as prompt the application of advanced electron microscopy in the research of materials science.
Quasistatic approximation in neuromodulation
Authors: Wang Boshuo , Peterchev Angel V , Gaugain Gabriel , Ilmoniemi Risto J , Grill Warren M , Bikson Marom , Nikolayev Denys
Published: July 2024

We define and explain the quasistatic approximation (QSA) as applied to field modeling for electrical and magnetic stimulation. Neuromodulation analysis pipelines include discrete stages, and QSA is applied specifically when calculating the electric and magnetic fields generated in tissues by a given stimulation dose. QSA simplifies the modeling equations to support tractable analysis, enhanced understanding, and computational efficiency. The application of QSA in neuromodulation is based on four underlying assumptions: (A1) no wave propagation or self-induction in tissue, (A2) linear tissue properties, (A3) purely resistive tissue, and (A4) non-dispersive tissue. As a consequence of these assumptions, each tissue is assigned a fixed conductivity, and the simplified equations (e.g. Laplace’s equation) are solved for the spatial distribution of the field, which is separated from the field’s temporal waveform. Recognizing that electrical tissue properties may be more complex, we explain how QSA can be embedded in parallel or iterative pipelines to model frequency dependence or nonlinearity of conductivity. We survey the history and validity of QSA across specific applications, such as microstimulation, deep brain stimulation, spinal cord stimulation, transcranial electrical stimulation, and transcranial magnetic stimulation. The precise definition and explanation of QSA in neuromodulation are essential for rigor when using QSA models or testing their limits.
Intentional binding for noninvasive BCI control
Authors: Venot Tristan , Desbois Arthur , Corsi Marie Constance , Hugueville Laurent , Saint-Bauzel Ludovic , De Vico Fallani Fabrizio
Published: July 2024

Objective. Noninvasive brain–computer interfaces (BCIs) allow to interact with the external environment by naturally bypassing the musculoskeletal system. Making BCIs efficient and accurate is paramount to improve the reliability of real-life and clinical applications, from open-loop device control to closed-loop neurorehabilitation. Approach. By promoting sense of agency and embodiment, realistic setups including multimodal channels of communication, such as eye-gaze, and robotic prostheses aim to improve BCI performance. However, how the mental imagery command should be integrated in those hybrid systems so as to ensure the best interaction is still poorly understood. To address this question, we performed a hybrid EEG-based BCI training involving healthy volunteers enrolled in a reach-and-grasp action operated by a robotic arm. Main results. Showed that the hand grasping motor imagery timing significantly affects the BCI accuracy evolution as well as the spatiotemporal brain dynamics. Larger accuracy improvement was obtained when motor imagery is performed just after the robot reaching, as compared to before or during the movement. The proximity with the subsequent robot grasping favored intentional binding, led to stronger motor-related brain activity, and primed the ability of sensorimotor areas to integrate information from regions implicated in higher-order cognitive functions. Significance. Taken together, these findings provided fresh evidence about the effects of intentional binding on human behavior and cortical network dynamics that can be exploited to design a new generation of efficient brain-machine interfaces.
Mean streaming in reciprocating flow in a double bifurcation
Authors: Wanigasekara Chandrika , Jacob Chinthaka , Manasseh Richard , Leontini Justin
Published: July 2024

This paper reports the mean streaming flow generated in a double bifurcation during reciprocating flow calculated using direct numerical simulations. Motivated by the medical ventilation technique of high-frequency ventilation (HFV), we investigate the potential for mean streaming to be maintained in this geometry as the frequency of reciprocation is increased while concurrently reducing the amplitude (and thereby reducing the volume per cycle). We identify four distinct regimes of flow. The first and second occur at low to moderate frequencies and generate significant streaming flows due to the interaction between Dean vortices that are generated during both the in- and out-flows. The third and fourth occur at high frequencies and produce reduced streaming, due to the reduction in formation length of the Dean vortices. Notably, the fourth regime at the highest frequencies investigated appears to show a switch in the direction of the streaming flow at the wall. Considering the motivating application of HFV, we show that currently employed frequencies are low, and much higher frequencies (and subsequently lower volumes per cycle) could potentially be employed.
Analysis of crack propagation of PLA fabricated by the additive manufacturing technique
Authors: Mohd Yusof Ab Aziz Bin , Md Yusop Abdul Hakim Bin , Abu Kasim Haszeme Bin
Published: July 2024

Understanding crack propagation is crucial for evaluating the structural integrity and reliability of additive manufacturing components, as cracks can compromise mechanical properties and potentially lead to catastrophic failures. The study of crack propagation in additive manufacturing components is used to develop strategies for mitigating crack initiation and growth, improving material properties, and optimising the design and manufacturing processes. Crack propagation in additive manufacturing components can be influenced by various factors, including material properties, design considerations, manufacturing defects, and loading conditions. Due to the identified issue, the study was carried out to investigate the crack propagation of the Fused Deposition Modeling (FDM) component using compact tension fracture testing. The experimental work started with fabricating the samples using PLA material, followed by a fracture test based on the compact tension specimen test to get a response of the structure and its crack propagation under tensile. Material properties were also collected using the dog bone tensile test. The material properties of the testing were then imported to Finite Element Analysis for further investigation of fracture mechanics. It was found that the maximum force of the sample was 141.7 ± 28 N at 1.70 ± 0.26 mm displacement, and cracks initiated around the tip and propagated upward or downward based on the initial crack location. The deformation patterns of PLA material have shown it to be brittle plastic deformation and low energy absorption before fracture.
Density of continuous functions in Sobolev spaces with applications to capacity
Authors: Eriksson-Bique Sylvester , Poggi-Corradini Pietro
Published: July 2024

We show that capacity can be computed with locally Lipschitz functions in locally complete and separable metric spaces. Further, we show that if

(
X
,
d
,
μ
)

(X,d,\mu )

is a locally complete and separable metric measure space, then continuous functions are dense in the Newtonian space

N

1
,
p

(
X
)

N^{1,p}(X)

. Here the measure

μ
\mu

is Borel and is finite and positive on all metric balls. In particular, we don’t assume properness of

X
X

, doubling of

μ
\mu

or any Poincaré inequalities. These resolve, partially or fully, questions posed by a number of authors, including J. Heinonen, A. Björn and J. Björn. In contrast to much of the past work, our results apply to locally complete spaces

X
X

and dispenses with the frequently used regularity assumptions: doubling, properness, Poincaré inequality, Loewner property or quasiconvexity.
Curating BOLD records via Bayesian phylogenetic assignments enables harmonization of regional subgeneric classifications and cryptic species detection within the genus Tachina (Diptera: Tachinidae)
Authors: Stein Frederik , Moura Carina C M , Gailing Oliver
Published: July 2024

DNA barcoding is a popular tool for species identification of insect samples, with important applications for plant protection. However, Barcode of Life Database queries related to tachinid samples can produce ambiguous results due to contradictory species assignments. Therefore, we applied Bayesian phylogenetic inference to 811 Tachina Meigen, 1803 COI-5P sequences containing all contradictory species assignments of Tachina Barcode Index Numbers. Based on phylogenetic assignment, the assemble species by automatic partitioning (ASAP) analysis, the MonoPhy test and analyses of genetic divergence, we identified 805 sequences representing species of the Tachina genus, whereas six sequences were incorrectly assigned to Tachina. The dataset contained 21 described species and at least seven unidentified species. Additionally, we found that the described species Tachina marklini Zetterstedt, 1838, includes two cryptic species based on ASAP partitioning of sequences, phylogenetic inference and geographical metadata. Furthermore, we harmonized conflicting subgeneric classifications of the Palearctic and Nearctic by employing different subgenera assignments from both partitions. We aimed at monophyletic subgenera partitions. We largely confirmed the validity of the Palearctic Tachina subgenera and Nowickia as a subgenus of Tachina. However, Palearctic Nowickia species formerly allocated to the outdated genus Fabriciella appeared to constitute one monophyletic group with the subgenus Rhachogaster. We conclude that this set of bioinformatics tools is suitable for curating COI-5P-based DNA barcode libraries. Although, curation is limited due to possible species introgression, horizontal gene transfer, incomplete lineage sorting and human errors the resulting dataset enabled the revision of subgenera concepts and the unambiguous cryptic species detection.
Heterogeneous effects of increased availability of alcohol on hospitalisation due to external causes. Quasi-experimental evidence from the introduction of Saturday opening at Swedish alcohol retail stores
Authors: Almquist Ylva B , Brännström Lars , Hjorth-Trolle Anders , Rostila Mikael
Published: July 2024

Responses to increased alcohol availability may vary across the population as a function of differential vulnerability. This study therefore aimed to examine the effects of the implementation of Saturday opening at the Swedish alcohol retail monopoly in 2000 on risks of hospitalisation due to external causes (HEC) among different population subgroups. Leveraging the experimental design of the reform, longitudinal difference-in-differences analyses were applied to a register-based cohort of individuals aged 20-40 at the time of implementation. The population was stratified into groups of Swedish, Finnish, and Middle Eastern origin, known to represent different levels of alcohol consumption and rates of alcohol-related morbidity. Results showed a 17.7% increase (p<0.029) in the risk of HEC among individuals of Finnish origin, as jointly caused by both increased prevalence in the experiment area and decreased prevalence in the control area. The increase was primarily driven by younger men with lower levels of education. Those of Swedish origin exhibited largely similar patterns (9.7% increase; p<0.001) while no measurable impact was observed among individuals of Middle Eastern origin (-21.4% decrease; p<0.076). The findings confirm that increasing alcohol availability contributes to the disease burden related to alcohol among population subgroups already susceptible to its effects.
Using quality improvement frameworks to develop, implement, and evaluate a novel ambulatory oncology pharmacy practice model: A descriptive example
Authors: Underhill Hayley , LeBlanc Michael , Macfarlane Robyn , Hutton Lauren
Published: July 2024

Purpose

To describe the application of the Plan-Do-Study-Act quality improvement framework in the development, implementation, and evaluation of a novel pharmacy practice model in ambulatory oncology.

Four iterations of the Plan-Do-Study-Act framework were completed to develop a patient-facing, pharmacist-led ambulatory oncology clinic program. The clinic provided care to patients with prostate cancer on oral anticancer therapy. Metrics were collected throughout all stages of development to inform target processes for improvement. The pharmacist saw 136 patients between July 2019 and January 2023, resulting in 464 total encounters. The pharmacist provided clinical interventions and counseling to patients newly starting on oral anticancer therapy and those established on therapy using a longitudinal model of care.

Conclusion

Application of the Plan-Do-Study-Act quality improvement framework to a novel pharmacy practice model supported the development, evaluation, and sustainability of a pharmacist-led ambulatory oncology clinic providing care to patients with prostate cancer on oral anticancer therapy.
Comparisons of the amylolytic enzymes and malt starch hydrolysates of two barley cultivars, Hokudai 1 (the first cultivar developed in Japan) and Kitanohoshi (currently used cultivar for beer production)
Authors: Saburi Wataru , Mori Haruhide
Published: July 2024

Starch degradation in malted barley produces yeast-fermentable sugars. In this study, we compared the amylolytic enzymes and composition of the malt starch hydrolysates of two barley cultivars, Hokudai 1 (the first cultivar established in Japan) and Kitanohoshi (the currently used cultivar for beer production). Hokudai 1 malt contained lower activity of amylolytic enzymes than Kitanohoshi malt, although these cultivars contained α-amylase AMY2 and β-amylase Bmy1 as the predominant enzymes. Malt starch hydrolysate of Hokudai 1 contained more limit dextrin and less yeast-fermentable sugars than that of Kitanohoshi. In mixed malt saccharification, a high Hokudai 1 malt ratio increased the limit dextrin levels and decreased the maltotriose and maltose levels. Even though Kitanohoshi malt contained more amylolytic enzymes than Hokudai 1 malt, addition of Kitanohoshi extract containing the amylolytic enzymes did not enhance malt starch degradation of Hokudai 1. Hokudai 1 malt starch was less degradable than Kitanohoshi malt starch.
An overview of key online resources for human genomics: a powerful and open toolbox for in silico research
Authors: Forero Diego A , Bonilla Diego A , González-Giraldo Yeimy , Patrinos George P
Published: July 2024

Recent advances in high-throughput molecular methods have led to an extraordinary volume of genomics data. Simultaneously, the progress in the computational implementation of novel algorithms has facilitated the creation of hundreds of freely available online tools for their advanced analyses. However, a general overview of the most commonly used tools for the in silico analysis of genomics data is still missing. In the current article, we present an overview of commonly used online resources for genomics research, including over 50 tools. This selection will be helpful for scientists with basic or intermediate skills in the in silico analyses of genomics data, such as researchers and students from wet labs seeking to strengthen their computational competencies. In addition, we discuss current needs and future perspectives within this field.
Atypical chemokine receptor 1-positive endothelial cells mediate leucocyte infiltration and synergize with secreted frizzled-related protein 2/asporin-positive fibroblasts to promote skin fibrosis in systemic sclerosis
Authors: Huang Yan , Pu Weilin , Wang Lei , Ma Qianqian , Ma Yanyun , Liu Qingmei , Jiang Shuai , Zhao Xiangyue , Zhang Yuting , He Qiuyu , Tang Yulong , Liu Jing , Lin Jui-Ming , Shi Xiangguang , Tu Wenzhen , Chen Yuanyuan , Lin Jinran , Gong Yiyi , Wu Wenyu , Wang Jiucun
Published: July 2024

Background

Skin fibrosis is the typical pathological manifestation of systemic sclerosis (SSc) and localized scleroderma (LS); it has an unclear aetiology and few effective treatments. Although excessive collagen secretion by fibroblasts is the primary cause of skin fibrosis, evidence has suggested that vascular damage is the initiating event and that various cell types, including fibroblasts, work together to contribute to the pathogenesis of skin fibrosis.

Objectives

To explore the relationship between vascular endothelial cell lesions and immune cell infiltration, along with the interactions between various cell types within the fibrotic skin ecosystem.

Methods

Single-cell RNA sequencing was performed on skin biopsies from three healthy donors and seven patients with SSc. Additional data from three patients with localized scleroderma available in the Gene Expression Omnibus (GSE160536) were integrated by Harmony. CellChat (version 1.5.0) was used to analyse the cell communication network. A Transwell® assay and a bleomycin (BLM) mouse model were used to explore the role of atypical chemokine receptor 1 (ACKR1; ‘Duffy antigen’) in immune cell infiltration. Milo single-cell Western blot was used to show fibroblast subcluster activation.

Results

A total of 62 295 cells were obtained and subpopulations of stromal and immune cells identified. Interaction network analysis found that multiple chemokines secreted by macrophages, pericytes and proinflammatory fibroblasts could bind with ACKR1, which was highly expressed by endothelial cells in lesional skin. The Transwell® assay revealed that overexpression of ACKR1 in human umbilical vein endothelial cells facilitated leucocyte infiltration following treatment with interleukin-8. BLM mice showed enhanced ACKR1 expression, massive immune cell infiltration and skin fibrosis that was attenuated by ACKR1 inhibition. Furthermore, infiltrated macrophages expressing high levels of transforming growth factor (TGF)-β1 or platelet-derived growth factor B (PDGFB) could activate secreted frizzled-related protein 2 (SFRP2)/asporin (ASPN)+ fibroblasts to contribute to the excessive accumulation of extracellular matrix. It was also found that the SOX4–ASPN axis plays an important role in the TGF-β signalling cascade and the aetiology of skin fibrosis.

Conclusions

Our results reveal that high expression of ACKR1 by endothelial cells in fibrotic skin tissue promotes immune cell infiltration and that SFRP2/ASPN+ fibroblasts synergize to exacerbate skin fibrosis.
Large-scale parameters framework with large convolutional kernel for encoding visual fMRI activity information
Authors: Ma Shuxiao , Wang Linyuan , Hou Senbao , Zhang Chi , Yan Bin
Published: July 2024

Visual encoding models often use deep neural networks to describe the brain’s visual cortex response to external stimuli. Inspired by biological findings, researchers found that large receptive fields built with large convolutional kernels improve convolutional encoding model performance. Inspired by scaling laws in recent years, this article investigates the performance of large convolutional kernel encoding models on larger parameter scales. This paper proposes a large-scale parameters framework with a sizeable convolutional kernel for encoding visual functional magnetic resonance imaging activity information. The proposed framework consists of three parts: First, the stimulus image feature extraction module is constructed using a large-kernel convolutional network while increasing channel numbers to expand the parameter size of the framework. Second, enlarging the input data during the training stage through the multi-subject fusion module to accommodate the increase in parameters. Third, the voxel mapping module maps from stimulus image features to functional magnetic resonance imaging signals. Compared to sizeable convolutional kernel visual encoding networks with base parameter scale, our visual encoding framework improves by approximately 7% on the Natural Scenes Dataset, the dedicated dataset for the Algonauts 2023 Challenge. We further analyze that our encoding framework made a trade-off between encoding performance and trainability. This paper confirms that expanding parameters in visual coding can bring performance improvements.
Gender and age related brain structural and functional alterations in children with autism spectrum disorder
Authors: Zhou Di , Hua Ting , Tang Huan , Yang Rong , Huang Linsheng , Gong Yujiao , Zhang Lin , Tang Guangyu
Published: July 2024

To explore the effects of age and gender on the brain in children with autism spectrum disorder using magnetic resonance imaging. 185 patients with autism spectrum disorder and 110 typically developing children were enrolled. In terms of gender, boys with autism spectrum disorder had increased gray matter volumes in the insula and superior frontal gyrus and decreased gray matter volumes in the inferior frontal gyrus and thalamus. The brain regions with functional alterations are mainly distributed in the cerebellum, anterior cingulate gyrus, postcentral gyrus, and putamen. Girls with autism spectrum disorder only had increased gray matter volumes in the right cuneus and showed higher amplitude of low-frequency fluctuation in the paracentral lobule, higher regional homogeneity and degree centrality in the calcarine fissure, and greater right frontoparietal network–default mode network connectivity. In terms of age, preschool-aged children with autism spectrum disorder exhibited hypo-connectivity between and within auditory network, somatomotor network, and visual network. School-aged children with autism spectrum disorder showed increased gray matter volumes in the rectus gyrus, superior temporal gyrus, insula, and suboccipital gyrus, as well as increased amplitude of low-frequency fluctuation and regional homogeneity in the calcarine fissure and precentral gyrus and decreased in the cerebellum and anterior cingulate gyrus. The hyper-connectivity between somatomotor network and left frontoparietal network and within visual network was found. It is essential to consider the impact of age and gender on the neurophysiological alterations in autism spectrum disorder children when analyzing changes in brain structure and function.
pH-dependent interaction between acetaminophen and dioleoylphosphatidylcholine membranes
Authors: Ishikawa Kodai , Nabika Hideki
Published: July 2024

Acetaminophen may cause acute liver failure due to overdose. Understanding the processes of adsorption and incorporation of acetaminophen into cell membranes is crucial for elucidating the mechanisms of action and toxicity of acetaminophen. We investigated the interaction between acetaminophen and a model cell membrane (dioleoylphosphatidylcholine) using surface pressure–area isotherms. Acetaminophen was incorporated into the dioleoylphosphatidylcholine membrane under basic conditions, increasing the dioleoylphosphatidylcholine molecular area. The acetaminophen uptake was explained by the adsorption of hydroxide ions onto the lipid membrane and electrostatic interaction between acetaminophen and lipid molecules under basic conditions.
The association of sleep duration with the risk of chronic kidney disease: a systematic review and meta-analysis
Authors: Koh Jin Hean , Yeo Brian Sheng Yep , Tan Timothy Wei En , See Mark Yong Siang , Ng Adele Chin Wei , Loh Shaun Ray Han , Gooley Joshua , Tan Chieh Suai , Toh Song Tar
Published: July 2024

Background and hypothesis

Published literature suggests that sleep duration and quality may be affected in adults with chronic kidney disease. However, the relationship between these two entities remains a matter of debate. The objective of this systematic review and meta-analysis is to assess the effect of sleep duration and quality on chronic kidney disease.

Methods

A systematic review of the Medline/PubMed, Embase, Cochrane Library, and CINAHL databases was conducted for articles pertaining to the association between sleep duration and quality on chronic kidney disease. The main outcome was the hazard/risk ratio of chronic kidney disease in patients of varying sleep durations and quality.

Results

In total, 42 studies (2 613 971 patients) with a mean age of 43.55 ± 14.01 years were included in the meta-analysis. Compared with a reference range of 7 to 8 hours of sleep, short sleep durations of ≤4 hours (RR 1.41, 95% CI: 1.16 to 1.71, P < 0.01), ≤5 hours (RR 1.46, 95% CI: 1.22 to 1.76, P < 0.01), ≤6 hours (RR 1.18, 95% CI: 1.09 to 1.29, P < 0.01), and ≤7 hours (RR 1.19, 95% CI: 1.12 to 1.28, P < 0.01) were significantly associated with an increased risk of incident chronic kidney disease. Long sleep durations of ≥8 hours (RR 1.15, 95% CI: 1.03 to 1.28, P < 0.01) and ≥9 hours (RR 1.46, 95% CI: 1.28 to 1.68, P < 0.01) were also significantly associated with an increased risk of incident chronic kidney disease. Meta-regression did not find any significant effect of age, gender, geographical region, and BMI and an association with sleep duration and risk of incident chronic kidney disease.

Conclusion

Both short and long sleep durations were significantly associated with a higher risk of chronic kidney disease. Interventions targeted toward achieving an optimal duration of sleep may reduce the risk of incident chronic kidney disease.
Left atrial function in patients with rheumatic mitral stenosis: addressing prognostic insights beyond atrial fibrillation prediction
Authors: Figueiredo Fernanda de Azevedo , Esteves William Antonio M , Hung Judy , Gomes Nayana Flamini Arantes , Taconeli Cesar Augusto , Pantaleão Alexandre Negrão , de Oliveira Matheus Assunção Rabello , de Magalhães Silvio Mendes , Chavez Luz Marina Tacuri , Tan Timothy C , Bhat Aditya , Levine Robert A , Nunes Maria Carmo Pereira
Published: July 2024

Aims

Rheumatic mitral stenosis (MS) frequently leads to impaired left atrial (LA) function because of pressure overload, highlighting the underlying atrial pathology. Two-dimensional speckle tracking echocardiography (2D-STE) offers early detection of LA dysfunction, potentially improving risk assessment in patients with MS. This study aims to evaluate the predictive value of LA function assessed by 2D-STE for clinical outcomes in patients with MS.

Methods and results

Between 2011 and 2021, patients with MS underwent LA function assessment using 2D-STE, with focus on the reservoir phase (LASr). Atrial fibrillation (AF) development constituted the primary outcome, with death or valve replacement as the secondary outcome. Conditional inference trees were employed for analysis, validated through sample splitting. The study included 493 patients with MS (mean valve area 1.1 ± 0.4 cm2, 84% female). At baseline, 166 patients (34%) had AF, with 62 patients (19%) developing AF during follow-up. LASr emerged as the primary predictor for new-onset AF, with a threshold of 17.9%. Over a mean 3.8-year follow-up, 125 patients (25%) underwent mitral valve replacement, and 32 patients (6.5%) died. A decision tree analysis identified key predictors such as age, LASr, severity of tricuspid regurgitation (TR), net atrioventricular compliance (Cn), and early percutaneous mitral valvuloplasty, especially in patients aged ≤49 years, where LASr, with a threshold of 12.8%, significantly predicted adverse outcomes.

Conclusion

LASr emerged as a significant predictor of cardiovascular events in this MS cohort, validated through a decision tree analysis. Patients were stratified into low- or high-risk categories for adverse outcomes, taking into account LASr, age, TR severity, and Cn.
Comparison of left ventricular mass and wall thickness between cardiac computed tomography angiography and cardiac magnetic resonance imaging using machine learning algorithms
Authors: van Driest Finn Y , van der Geest Rob J , Omara Sharif K , Broersen Alexander , Dijkstra Jouke , Jukema J Wouter , Scholte Arthur J H A
Published: July 2024

Aims

Cardiac magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) is the gold standard in the assessment of left ventricle (LV) mass and wall thickness. In recent years, cardiac computed tomography angiography (CCTA) has gained widespread usage as an imaging modality. Despite this, limited previous investigations have specifically addressed the potential of CCTA as an alternative modality for quantitative LV assessment. The aim of this study was to compare CCTA derived LV mass and wall thickness with cardiac MRI utilizing machine learning algorithms.

Methods and results

Fifty-seven participants who underwent both CCTA and cardiac MRI were identified. LV mass and wall thickness was calculated using LV contours which were automatically placed using in-house developed machine learning models. Pearson’s correlation coefficients were calculated along with Bland–Altman plots to assess the agreement between the LV mass and wall thickness per region on CCTA and cardiac MRI. Inter-observer correlations were tested using Pearson’s correlation coefficient. Average LV mass and wall thickness for CCTA and cardiac MRI were 127 g, 128 g, 7, and 8 mm, respectively. Bland–Altman plots demonstrated mean differences and corresponding 95% limits of agreement of −1.26 (25.06; −27.58) and −0.57 (1.78; −2.92), for LV mass and average LV wall thickness, respectively. Mean differences and corresponding 95% limits of agreement for wall thickness per region were −0.75 (1.34; −2.83), −0.58 (2.14; −3.30), and −0.29 (3.21; −3.79) for the basal, mid, and apical regions, respectively. Inter-observer correlations were excellent.

Conclusion

Quantitative assessment of LV mass and wall thickness on CCTA using machine learning algorithms seems feasible and shows good agreement with cardiac MRI.
Commitment and the Dynamics of Household Labour Supply
Authors: Theloudis Alexandros , Velilla Jorge , Chiappori Pierre-André , Giménez-Nadal José Ignacio , Molina José Alberto
Published: July 2024

The extent to which individuals commit to their partner for life has important implications. This paper develops a life-cycle collective model of the household, through which it characterises behaviour in three prominent alternative types of commitment: full, limited and no commitment. We propose a test that distinguishes between all three types based on how contemporaneous and historical news affect household behaviour. Our test permits heterogeneity in the degree of commitment across households. Using recent data from the Panel Study of Income Dynamics, we reject full and no commitment, while we find strong evidence for limited commitment.
Ultrasound-assisted catheter-directed thrombolysis versus surgical pulmonary embolectomy for intermediate-high or high-risk pulmonary embolism: a randomized phase II non-inferiority trial
Authors: Stortecky Stefan , Barco Stefano , Windecker Stephan , Heg Dik , Kadner Alexander , Englberger Lars , Kucher Nils
Published: July 2024

OBJECTIVES

We hypothesized that ultrasound-assisted thrombolysis (USAT) is non-inferior to surgical pulmonary embolectomy (SPE) to improve right ventricular (RV) function in patients with acute pulmonary embolism (PE).

METHODS

In a single-centre, non-inferiority trial, we randomly assigned 27 patients with intermediate-high or high-risk acute PE to undergo either USAT or SPE stratified by PE risk. Primary and secondary outcomes were the baseline-to-72-h difference in right-to-left ventricular (RV/LV) ratio and the Qanadli pulmonary occlusion score, respectively, by contrast-enhanced chest-computed tomography assessed by a blinded CoreLab.

RESULTS

The trial was prematurely terminated due to slow enrolment. Mean age was 62.6 (SD 12.4) years, 26% were women, and 15% had high-risk PE. Mean change in RV/LV ratio was −0.34 (95% CI −0.50 to −0.18) in the USAT and −0.53 (95% CI −0.68 to −0.38) in the SPE group (mean difference: 0.152; 95% CI 0.032–0.271; Pnon-inferiority = 0.80; Psuperiority = 0.013). Mean change in Qanadli pulmonary occlusion score was −7.23 (95% CI −9.58 to −4.88) in the USAT and −11.36 (95% CI −15.27 to −7.44) in the SPE group (mean difference: 5.00; 95% CI 0.44–9.56, P = 0.032). Clinical and functional outcomes were similar between the 2 groups up to 12 months.

CONCLUSIONS

In patients with intermediate-high and high-risk acute PE, USAT was not non-inferior when compared with SPE in reducing RV/LV ratio within the first 72 h. In a post hoc superiority analysis, SPE resulted in greater improvement of RV overload and reduction of thrombus burden.
Randomized 20-year infancy-onset dietary intervention, life-long cardiovascular risk factors and retinal microvasculature
Authors: Repo Oskari , Juonala Markus , Niinikoski Harri , Rovio Suvi , Mykkänen Juha , Lagström Hanna , Cheung Carol Y , Yang Dawei , Vaahtoranta-Lehtonen Hanna , Jula Antti , Nevalainen Jaakko , Rönnemaa Tapani , Viikari Jorma , Raitakari Olli , Tapp Robyn , Pahkala Katja
Published: July 2024

Background and Aims

Retinal microvasculature characteristics predict cardiovascular morbidity and mortality. This study investigated associations of lifelong cardiovascular risk factors and effects of dietary intervention on retinal microvasculature in young adulthood.

Methods

The cohort is derived from the longitudinal Special Turku Coronary Risk Factor Intervention Project study. The Special Turku Coronary Risk Factor Intervention Project is a 20-year infancy-onset randomized controlled dietary intervention study with frequent study visits and follow-up extending to age 26 years. The dietary intervention aimed at a heart-healthy diet. Fundus photographs were taken at the 26-year follow-up, and microvascular measures [arteriolar and venular diameters, tortuosity (simple and curvature) and fractal dimensions] were derived (n = 486). Cumulative exposure as the area under the curve for cardiovascular risk factors and dietary components was determined for the longest available time period (e.g. from age 7 months to 26 years).

Results

The dietary intervention had a favourable effect on retinal microvasculature resulting in less tortuous arterioles and venules and increased arteriolar fractal dimension in the intervention group when compared with the control group. The intervention effects were found even when controlled for the cumulative cardiovascular risk factors. Reduced lifelong cumulative intake of saturated fats, main target of the intervention, was also associated with less tortuous venules. Several lifelong cumulative risk factors were independently associated with the retinal microvascular measures, e.g. cumulative systolic blood pressure with narrower arterioles.

Conclusions

Infancy-onset 20-year dietary intervention had favourable effects on the retinal microvasculature in young adulthood. Several lifelong cumulative cardiovascular risk factors were independently associated with retinal microvascular structure.
Mechanisms of host adaptation by bacterial pathogens
Authors: Barber Matthew F , Fitzgerald J Ross
Published: July 2024

The emergence of new infectious diseases poses a major threat to humans, animals, and broader ecosystems. Defining factors that govern the ability of pathogens to adapt to new host species is therefore a crucial research imperative. Pathogenic bacteria are of particular concern, given dwindling treatment options amid the continued expansion of antimicrobial resistance. In this review, we summarize recent advancements in the understanding of bacterial host species adaptation, with an emphasis on pathogens of humans and related mammals. We focus particularly on molecular mechanisms underlying key steps of bacterial host adaptation including colonization, nutrient acquisition, and immune evasion, as well as suggest key areas for future investigation. By developing a greater understanding of the mechanisms of host adaptation in pathogenic bacteria, we may uncover new strategies to target these microbes for the treatment and prevention of infectious diseases in humans, animals, and the broader environment.
Impacts of pleiotropy and migration on repeated genetic adaptation
Authors: Battlay Paul , Yeaman Sam , Hodgins Kathryn A
Published: July 2024

Observations of genetically repeated evolution (repeatability) in complex organisms are incongruent with the Fisher–Orr model, which implies that repeated use of the same gene should be rare when mutations are pleiotropic (i.e. affect multiple traits). When spatially divergent selection occurs in the presence of migration, mutations of large effect are more strongly favored, and hence, repeatability is more likely, but it is unclear whether this observation is limited by pleiotropy. Here, we explore this question using individual-based simulations of a two-patch model incorporating multiple quantitative traits governed by mutations with pleiotropic effects. We explore the relationship between fitness trade-offs and repeatability by varying the alignment between mutation effect and spatial variation in trait optima. While repeatability decreases with increasing trait dimensionality, trade-offs in mutation effects on traits do not strongly limit the contribution of a locus of large effect to repeated adaptation, particularly under increased migration. These results suggest that repeatability will be more pronounced for local rather than global adaptation. Whereas pleiotropy limits repeatability in a single-population model, when there is local adaptation with gene flow, repeatability can occur if some loci are able to produce alleles of large effect, even when there are pleiotropic trade-offs.