bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Seismic low-velocity equatorial torus in the Earth’s outer core: Evidence from the late–coda correlation wavefield
Authors: Ma Xiaolong , Tkalčić Hrvoje
Published: August 2024

Thermochemical inhomogeneities in the Earth’s outer core that enhance our understanding of the geodynamo have been elusive. Seismic constraints on such inhomogeneities would provide clues on the amount and distribution of light elements in the core apart from iron and nickel. Here, we present evidence for a low-velocity volume within the outer core via the global coda correlation wavefield. Several key correlogram features with a unique sensitivity to the liquid core show variations with wave paths remarkably slower in the equatorial than polar planes. We constrain a torus structure at low latitudes with ~2% lower velocity than the surrounding liquid outer core via waveform modeling. We propose a thermochemical origin for such a low-velocity torus, providing important constraints on the dynamical processes of the Earth’s outer core.
Context-dependent impact of the dietary non-essential amino acid tyrosine on
Drosophila
physiology and longevity
Authors: Kosakamoto Hina , Sakuma Chisako , Okada Rina , Miura Masayuki , Obata Fumiaki
Published: August 2024

Dietary protein intake modulates growth, reproduction, and longevity by stimulating amino acid (AA)–sensing pathways. Essential AAs are often considered as limiting nutrients during protein scarcity, and the role of dietary non-essential AAs (NEAAs) is less explored. Although tyrosine has been reported to be crucial for sensing protein restriction in
Drosophila
larvae, its effect on adult physiology and longevity remains unclear. Here, using a synthetic diet, we perform a systematic investigation of the effect of single NEAA deprivation on nutrient-sensing pathways, reproductive ability, starvation resistance, feeding behavior, and life span in adult female flies. Specifically, dietary tyrosine deprivation decreases internal tyrosine levels and fecundity, influences AA-sensing machineries, and extends life span. These nutritional responses are not observed under higher total AA intake or in infertile female flies, suggesting a context-dependent influence of dietary tyrosine. Our findings highlight the unique role of tyrosine as a potentially limiting nutrient, underscoring its value for dietary interventions aimed at enhancing health span.
Lasting benefits of embryonic eavesdropping on parent-parent communication
Authors: Ruiz-Raya Francisco , Velando Alberto
Published: August 2024

Developing embryos have traditionally been viewed as passive agents in the evolution of family conflicts, with maternal substances within the uterus or eggs as main factors modulating later expression of offspring solicitation behaviors. Yet, parent-offspring conflict theory predicts that offspring might also rely on alternative cues to adjust demand in response to prenatal cues of parental capacity for resource provisioning. Here, we show how embryonic experience with vocalizations carried out by parents during nest-relief displays at incubation adaptively shapes avian offspring development, providing lasting benefits to offspring. Genetic siblings prenatally exposed to different levels of parent-parent communication showed differences in epigenetic patterns, adrenocortical responsiveness, development, and food solicitation behavior. The correspondence between prenatal acoustic experience and parental context positively influenced the nutritional status and growth rate of offspring reared by communicative parents. Offspring can thus retain strong control over their own development by gathering prenatal acoustic information about parental generosity.
Global subduction slow slip events and associated earthquakes
Authors: Dascher-Cousineau Kélian , Bürgmann Roland
Published: August 2024

Three decades of geodetic monitoring have established slow slip events (SSEs) as a common mode of fault slip, sometimes linked with earthquake swarms and in a few cases escalating to major seismic events. However, the connection between SSEs and earthquake hazard has been difficult to quantify and contextualize beyond regional studies. We aggregate a geodetic record of SSEs from subduction zones in the circum-Pacific region. In aggregate, earthquake rates increase up to threefold concurrent with and proximal to SSEs. The relative amplitude of this increase is correlated with the SSE size and, to a lesser extent, their depth and region. The subdued and coincident earthquake response to SSE stress transfer suggests a more limited role of static stress transfer and a very short relaxation timescale for the triggered seismicity. The observed range of behavior does not support a major connection between SSEs and earthquake hazard.
Superior fracture resistance and topology-induced intrinsic toughening mechanism in 3D shell-based lattice metamaterials
Authors: Wang Yujia , Wu Kunlin , Zhang Xuan , Li Xiaoyan , Wang Yifan , Gao Huajian
Published: August 2024

Lattice metamaterials have demonstrated remarkable mechanical properties at low densities. As these architected materials advance toward real-world applications, their tolerance for damage and defects becomes a limiting factor. However, a thorough understanding of the fracture resistance and fracture mechanisms in lattice metamaterials, particularly for the emerging shell-based lattices, has remained elusive. Here, using a combination of in situ fracture experiments and finite element simulations, we show that shell-based lattice metamaterials with Schwarz P minimal surface topology exhibit superior fracture resistance compared to conventional octet truss lattices, with average improvements in initiation toughness up to 150%. This superiority is attributed to the unique shell-based architecture that enables more efficient load transfer and higher energy dissipation through material damage, structural plasticity, and material plasticity. Our study reveals a topology-induced intrinsic toughening mechanism in shell-based lattices and highlights these architectures as a superior design route for creating lightweight and high-performance mechanical metamaterials.
Isolation, characterization, and genetic manipulation of cold-tolerant, manganese-oxidizing
Pseudomonas
sp. strains
Authors: Jones Ian , Vermillion Duncan , Tracy Chase , Denton Robert , Davis Rick , Geszvain Kati
Published: August 2024

Manganese-oxidizing bacteria (MnOB) produce Mn oxide minerals that can be used by humans for bioremediation, but the purpose for the bacterium is less clear. This study describes the isolation and characterization of cold-tolerant MnOB strains isolated from a compost pile in Morris, Minnesota, USA:
Pseudomonas
sp. MS-1 and DSV-1. The strains were preliminarily identified as members of species
Pseudomonas psychrophila
by 16S rRNA analysis and a multi-locus phylogenetic study using a database of 88 genomes from the
Pseudomonas
genus. However, the average nucleotide identity between these strains and the
P. psychrophila
sp. CF149 type strain was less than 93%. Thus, the two strains are members of a novel species that diverged from
P. psychrophila
. DSV-1 and MS-1 are cold tolerant; both grow at 4°C but faster at 24°C. Unlike the mesophilic MnOB
P. putida
GB-1, both strains are capable of robustly oxidizing Mn at low temperatures. Both DSV-1 and MS-1 genomes contain homologs of several Mn oxidation genes found in
P. putida
GB-1 (
mnxG
,
mcoA
,
mnxS1
,
mnxS2,
and
mnxR
). Random mutagenesis by transposon insertion was successfully performed in both strains and identified genes involved in Mn oxidation that were similar to those found in
P. putida
GB-1. Our results show that MnOB can be isolated from compost, supporting a role for Mn oxidation in plant waste degradation. The novel isolates
Pseudomonas
spp. DSV-1 and MS-1 both can oxidize Mn at low temperature and likely employ similar mechanisms and regulation as
P. putida
GB-1.

IMPORTANCE

Biogenic Mn oxides have high sorptive capacity and are strong oxidants. These two characteristics make these oxides and the microbes that make them attractive tools for the bioremediation of wastewater and contaminated environments. Identifying MnOB that can be used for bioremediation is an active area of research. As cold-tolerant MnOB,
Pseudomonas
sp. DSV-1 and MS-1 have the potential to expand the environmental conditions in which biogenic Mn oxide bioremediation can be performed. The similarity of these organisms to the well-characterized MnOB
P. putida
GB-1 and the ability to manipulate their genomes raise the possibility of modifying them to improve their bioremediation ability.
Adolescent tongue base tumour with diagnostic histopathological dilemma
Authors: Maiti Mousam , Mallick Ajay , Ghosh Debangshu , Chakrabarti Indranil
Published: August 2024

Mucoepidermoid carcinoma arising from minor salivary glands at the base of the tongue is rare. Surgical excision of the tumours remains the primary treatment of choice. The prognosis of this tumour depends on optimum clearance of the disease surgically, clinical staging and histopathological grading. Postoperatively, radiotherapy depends on the grading and histopathological features of the tumour. Long-term follow-up is a must to detect early recurrences of oropharyngeal tumours. In our case, the tumour was removed by the transoral route because it was a limited tumour and for better postoperative functional outcomes. Concurrent chemoradiotherapy was advised to address the perineural invasion and residual tumour of the base of the tongue region.
Ortner’s syndrome due to aneurysmal dilatation of the left pulmonary artery secondary to mixed pulmonary valve disease
Authors: Rati Kuran , Heng Ee Ling , Jackson James
Published: August 2024

A young female patient was referred by her general practitioner to the ear, nose and throat outpatient clinic with a 5-year history of progressive hoarseness and loss of voice. A chest radiograph was reported as showing marked dilatation of the left pulmonary artery without any other features to suggest underlying pulmonary arterial hypertension. A provisional diagnosis of left recurrent laryngeal nerve palsy secondary to its compression between the left pulmonary artery and the undersurface of the aortic arch—Ortner’s or cardiovocal syndrome—was suggested and confirmed on further investigation including CT, microlaryngoscopy and echocardiography.
Intramuscular cysticercosis of the forearm mimicking a soft tissue tumour
Authors: Kumar Nayana S , Kumar Navin , Rajakumar Krishna , Basu Somprakas
Published: August 2024

A man in his 20s presented with a painless, slow-growing firm swelling in the anterolateral aspect of his left forearm. The swelling had been present for 1 year and measured 10×12 cm. Clinically, a differential diagnosis of soft tissue sarcoma, lipoma, neurofibroma, dermoid cyst and hydatid cyst of the extremity was considered. MRI suggested a primary intramuscular hydatid cyst. However, fine-needle aspiration was inconclusive, and ELISA for immunoglobulin G antibodies to echinococcal antigen in serum was negative. A wide-local complete surgical excision of the lesion was planned. Intraoperatively, a well-defined, tense cystic swelling with surrounding dense adhesions was found within the intramuscular plane. Histopathological examination of the cyst wall revealed cysticercosis. The patient recovered uneventfully. This case highlights that solitary intramuscular cysticercosis, although rare, should be included in the differential diagnosis of an isolated soft tissue mass, particularly in endemic areas.
Glomus tumour located in the volar aspect of distal phalanx of thumb
Authors: Yadav Sandeep Kumar , Rajnish Rajesh Kumar , Prakash Vimal , Verma Vikrant
Published: August 2024

A woman in her 40s presented with pain and tenderness over the volar aspect of distal phalanx of her thumb without any swelling or discolouration. MRI indicated a possible glomus tumour. The treatment involved complete excision, and histopathological examination of the excised tissue confirmed the diagnosis of a glomus tumour. Most reported cases of glomus tumours are usually located in either the subungual region or the tip of the finger. This case represents a rare presentation in an unusual location—the volar aspect of the distal phalanx of the thumb.
Cholecystoappendiceal fistula associated with xanthogranulomatous cholecystitis
Authors: Tan Jay Roe , Lunevicius Raimundas
Published: August 2024

Xanthogranulomatous cholecystitis is a rare chronic inflammatory disease of the gallbladder associated with complications such as perforation, dense adhesions and fistulation. We present a case of a female patient in her 20s who presented with three episodes of recurrent cholecystitis over 3 months. Her medical history included an endoscopic retrograde cholangiopancreatography for obstructive jaundice due to choledocholithiasis. As there was no possibility of performing an urgent cholecystectomy during her initial admission, she was listed for an elective operation. Laparoscopic inspection revealed a pericholecystic mass involving the omentum, transverse colon, duodenum and liver and findings suspicious of a cholecystoappendiceal fistula. Laparoscopic cholecystectomy and appendicectomy were performed. Early index admission laparoscopic cholecystectomy should be performed in patients with acute cholecystitis to prevent higher grades of operative difficulty and associated complications. This case presentation—cholecystoappendiceal fistula associated with xanthogranulomatous cholecystitis—emphasises the necessity of complying with national guidelines in managing acute calculous cholecystitis.
Pulmonary pleomorphic carcinoma: current understanding illustrated through a case
Authors: Dolkar Tsering , Absher Kim , Hao Zhonglin
Published: August 2024

This article describes a case of a man in his early 40s who was diagnosed with pulmonary pleomorphic carcinoma (PPC). PPCs are rare and aggressive forms of lung cancer. Chemotherapy is of limited efficacy. We present a case that has seemingly recurred shortly after adjuvant chemotherapy and immunotherapy following an R0 resection for localised disease. Biopsy however was negative for recurrence. PPCs may bear actionable mutations and tyrosine kinase inhibitors may be used when appropriate. Immunotherapy with or without chemotherapy is emerging as the mainstay for metastatic disease despite a lack of evidence from randomised clinical trials.
Association between different levels of suppressed viral load and the risk of sexual transmission of HIV among serodiscordant couples on antiretroviral therapy: a protocol for a two-step systematic review and individual participant data meta-analysis
Authors: Djiadeu Pascal , Begum Housne , Archibald Chris , Ekmekjian Taline , Busa Giovanna , Dansoh Jeffery , Van Nguyen Phu , Fleurant Annie
Published: August 2024

Introduction

HIV is a major global public health issue. The risk of sexual transmission of HIV in serodiscordant couples when the partner living with HIV maintains a suppressed viral load of <200 copies of HIV copies/mL has been found in systematic reviews to be negligible. A recent systematic review reported a similar risk of transmission for viral load<1000 copies/mL, but quantitative transmission risk estimates were not provided. Precise estimates of the risk of sexual transmission at sustained viral load levels between 200 copies/mL and 1000 copies/mL remain a significant gap in the literature.

Methods and analysis

A systematic search of various electronic databases for the articles written in English or French will be conducted from January 2000 to October 2023, including MEDLINE, Embase, the Cochrane Central Register of Controlled Trials via Ovid and Scopus. The first step of a two-step meta-analysis will consist of a systematic review along with a meta-analysis, and the second step will use individual participant data for meta-analysis. Our primary outcome is the risk of sexual HIV transmission in serodiscordant couples where the partner living with HIV is on antiretroviral therapy. Our secondary outcome is the dose-response association between different levels of viral load and the risk of sexual HIV transmission. We will ascertain the risk of bias using the Risk Of Bias in Non-randomised Studies of Interventions (ROBINS-I) and Quality in Prognostic Studies (QUIPS), the risk of publication bias using forest plots and Egger’s test and heterogeneity using I2. A random effects model will estimate the pooled incidence of sexual HIV transmission, and multivariate logistic regression will be used to assess the viral load dose-response relationships. The Grading of Recommendations, Assessment, Development and Evaluation system will determine the certainty of evidence.

Ethics and dissemination

The meta-analysis will be conducted using deidentified data. No human subjects will be involved in the research. Findings will be disseminated through peer-reviewed publications, presentations and conferences.

PROSPERO registration number

CRD42023476946.
Pandemic lessons on essential healthcare services for the urban poor: a qualitative perspective of users and providers in Bangladesh
Authors: Hasan A M Rumayan , Hasan Md Zahid , Ahmed Mohammad Wahid , Selim Mohammad Abdus , Rabbani Md Golam , Rasheed Sabrina , Reidpath Daniel D , Mahmood Shehrin Shaila
Published: August 2024

Objective

The COVID-19 pandemic imposed unprecedented challenges to health systems globally. This study explored slum dwellers’ experience of receiving essential health services during the pandemic and the challenges faced by healthcare providers in urban areas of Bangladesh.

Design

The study followed a cross-sectional study design using qualitative methods.

Setting

The study was conducted in Dhaka and Gazipur City Corporations during November 2020–February 2021.

Participants

17 key informant interviews were carried out with healthcare providers and policy-makers and 22 in-depth interviews were carried out with slum dwellers. Thematic analysis was performed.

Results

The study identified challenges to the provision of essential healthcare in selected areas of Dhaka and Gazipur City Corporations during the COVID-19 pandemic. The lack of information on the availability of functional healthcare facilities, fear of contracting COVID-19 and restrictions on movement and transportation, resulted in delays in seeking essential healthcare during a pandemic. Access to healthcare facilities was further hindered by various hospitals’ decision to refuse care to general patients without valid, negative COVID-19 test results. Healthcare providers identified patients’ tendency to hide COVID-19 symptoms as a barrier to providing healthcare services to general patients. Conversely, patients concealed their symptoms to avoid COVID-19 tests and gain access to required treatment. In addition, the reallocation of human resources for COVID-19 treatment disrupted the delivery of essential health services.

Conclusion

The pandemic affected the accessibility of the slum population to essential healthcare and disrupted health service delivery. The findings of the study have highlighted gaps in the health system during an emergency response period like COVID-19. The study will assist the government and other stakeholders in designing tailored interventions and allocating resources in a more efficient manner to ensure universal health coverage in the face of health emergencies.
Probing the black holes in a dark matter halo of M87 using gravitational wave echoes
Authors: Liu Dong , Yang Yi , Long Zheng-Wen
Published: August 2024

Variations at the event horizon structure of a black hole will emit the signals of the gravitational wave echoes associated with the ringdown of the binary black hole merger. In this work, combining mass model of M87 and Einasto profile for dark matter halo, we construct one formal solution of black holes in dark matter halo, and this solution includes the regular black hole for geometric parameter $$a < 2M$$

a
<
2
M

and the wormhole for $$a \ge 2M$$

a
≥
2
M

. Then, we test this solution under axial gravitational perturbation and calculate their quasinormal modes (QNM). Our results show that when geometric parameter $$a>2M$$

a
>
2
M

, a series of gravitational wave echoes appear after the QNM, and one distinctive feature of gravitational wave echoes is the double barrier. Besides, we also study the impacts of shape parameters $$\alpha $$
α
of Einasto profile both on the QNM and gravitational wave echoes, and extract their frequencies using WKB method and Prony method. In principle, with the increasing of shape parameter $$\alpha $$
α
, the frequencies of the QNM and gravitational wave echoes between the different shape parameters must be different. But now there is zero difference of the frequencies between shape parameter $$\alpha =0.18$$

α
=
0.18

and $$\alpha =0.20$$

α
=
0.20

. Zero difference is not allowed, so we give an upper limit for shape parameter $$\alpha $$
α
, which is approximately $$\alpha <0.18$$

α
<
0.18

. These signals of gravitational wave echoes in a dark matter halo may be detected in the near future, and these characteristics of gravitational wave echoes may serve as local measurements of dark matter.
Spatially Selective Retinal Ganglion Cell Activation Using Low Invasive Extraocular Temporal Interference Stimulation
Authors: Song Xiaoyu , Guo Tianruo , Ma Saidong , Zhou Feng , Tian Jiaxin , Liu Zhengyang , Liu Jiao , Li Heng , Chen Yao , Chai Xinyu , Li Liming
Published: August 2024

Conventional retinal implants involve complex surgical procedures and require invasive implantation. Temporal Interference Stimulation (TIS) has achieved noninvasive and focused stimulation of deep brain regions by delivering high-frequency currents with small frequency differences on multiple electrodes. In this study, we conducted in silico investigations to evaluate extraocular TIS’s potential as a novel visual restoration approach. Different from the previously published retinal TIS model, the new model of extraocular TIS incorporated a biophysically detailed retinal ganglion cell (RGC) population, enabling a more accurate simulation of retinal outputs under electrical stimulation. Using this improved model, we made the following major discoveries: (1) the maximum value of TIS envelope electric potential ([Formula: see text] showed a strong correlation with TIS-induced RGC activation; (2) the preferred stimulating/return electrode (SE/RE) locations to achieve focalized TIS were predicted; (3) the performance of extraocular TIS was better than same-frequency sinusoidal stimulation (SSS) in terms of lower RGC threshold and more focused RGC activation; (4) the optimal stimulation parameters to achieve lower threshold and focused activation were identified; and (5) spatial selectivity of TIS could be improved by integrating current steering strategy and reducing electrode size. This study provides insights into the feasibility and effectiveness of a low-invasive stimulation approach in enhancing vision restoration.
Parameterized Approximations for the Minimum Diameter Vertex-Weighted Steiner Tree Problem in Graphs with Parameterized Weights
Authors: Ding Wei , Chen Guangting , Qiu Ke , Zhou Yu
Published: August 2024

Let [Formula: see text] be a weighted undirected connected graph, where [Formula: see text] is the set of vertices, [Formula: see text] is the set of edges, [Formula: see text] is a subset of terminals, [Formula: see text] denotes the weight associated with edge [Formula: see text], and [Formula: see text] denotes the weight associated with vertex [Formula: see text]. Let [Formula: see text] be a Steiner tree in [Formula: see text] to interconnect all terminals in [Formula: see text]. For any two terminals, [Formula: see text], we consider the weighted tree distance on [Formula: see text] from [Formula: see text] to [Formula: see text], defined as the weight of [Formula: see text] times the classic tree distance on [Formula: see text] from [Formula: see text] to [Formula: see text]. The longest weighted tree distance on [Formula: see text] between terminals is named the weighted diameter of [Formula: see text]. The Minimum Diameter Vertex-Weighted Steiner Tree Problem (MDWSTP) asks for a Steiner tree in [Formula: see text] of the minimum weighted diameter to interconnect all terminals in [Formula: see text]. In this paper, we introduce two classes of parameterized graphs (PG), [Formula: see text]-PG and [Formula: see text]-PG, in terms of the parameterized upper bound on the ratio of two vertex weights, and a weaker version of the parameterized triangle inequality, respectively, and present approximation algorithms of a parameterized factor for the MDWSTP in them. For the MDWSTP in an edge-weighted [Formula: see text]-PG, we present an approximation algorithm of a parameterized factor [Formula: see text]. For the MDWSTP in a vertex-weighted [Formula: see text]-PG, we first present a simple approximation algorithm of a parameterized factor [Formula: see text], where [Formula: see text] is tight when [Formula: see text], and further develop another approximation algorithm of a slightly improved factor.
Sharpening the gravitational Aharonov–Bohm effect
Authors: Pandey Akshat
Published: August 2024

We study the recent gravitational analogue of the Aharonov–Bohm effect for a classical system, namely a complex scalar field. We use this example to demonstrate that the Aharonov–Bohm effect in principle has nothing to do with quantum-mechanics. We then discuss how this classical field description can be connected to the standard one particle quantum description of the Aharonov–Bohm effect.
Hybrid quantum key distribution: A novel approach for secure end-to-end communication in network infrastructure
Authors: Ali Sellami
Published: August 2024

The Quantum Key Distribution (QKD) network approach has emerged as a promising solution and has garnered significant interest across various domains. QKD networks can be broadly categorized into two main types: those based on measurement-device-dependent (MDD) protocols and those based on measurement-device-independent (MDI) protocols. A novel network scheme is proposed combining these two protocols to guarantee end-to-end secure communication. It comprises two interconnected networks — the first uses a measurement-device-dependent protocol to connect routers with nearby nodes, while the second employs a measurement-device-independent protocol to interconnect the routers. In the first network, the process begins with Alice (Router) generating two types of weak quantum signals — the first has intensity, frequency and polarization or phase randomly varied, while the second with different delay times. Alice randomly transmits either signal states carrying information or decoy states with varying properties to the receivers (Bobs) over the quantum channels. She also sends a synchronization signal along with the quantum signals. At the receiver end, the synchronization pulse timestamps the incoming quantum signals. Each Bob then randomly shifts the frequencies of the received signals and measures their phase/polarization of the first signal and measures the delay times of the second signal. The secret key is derived by combining the frequency, the delay time and the phase/polarization information of the quantum signals, resulting in longer key lengths. Encoding information across multiple degrees of freedom enables extended key generation for secure communication. However, between the routers, MDI-QKD protocols are used to securely share the keys. This hybrid approach aims to ensure secure end-to-end communication across the network.
Temperatures of AdS2 black holes and holography revisited
Authors: Kim Wontae , Nam Mungon
Published: August 2024

In a dilaton gravity model, we revisit the calculation of the temperature of an evaporating black hole that is initially formed by a shock wave, taking into account the quantum backreaction. Based on the holographic principle, along with the assumption of a boundary equation of motion, we show that the black hole energy is maintained for a while during the early stage of evaporation. Gradually, it decreases as time goes on and eventually vanishes. Thus, the Stefan–Boltzmann law tells us that the black hole temperature, defined by the emission rate of the black hole energy, starts from zero temperature and reaches a maximum value at a critical time, and finally vanishes. It is also shown that the maximum temperature of the evaporating black hole never exceeds the Hawking temperature of the eternal AdS2 black hole. We discuss physical implications of the initial zero temperature of the evaporating black hole.
Superconductivity of the grain boundaries in boron-doped nanocrystalline diamond
Authors: Bhattacharyya Somnath
Published: August 2024

The signature of the anisotropic superconducting order parameter ([Formula: see text]) in heavily boron-doped nanocrystalline diamond (BNCD) films is demonstrated from the low-temperature resistivity and magnetoresistance measurements. Due to the presence of boron acceptors predominantly at the well-aligned grain boundaries, Rashba-type spin-orbit coupling can arise which influences the superconducting properties of these films. The one-dimensional (1D) filamentary channels of the grain boundaries suggest the modulation of the [Formula: see text] which explains the peaks observed in the temperature-dependent resistance. This also explains the oscillatory magnetoresistance as a function of the magnetic fields and their angle dependence. From the observed superlattice-like microstructure of the BNCD films, a possible mechanism for creating Fulde–Ferrel and Larkin–Ovchinnikov (FFLO)-type state and chiral vortex lines from the superposition of multiple (Andreev) bound states is discussed. Overall, the interface states of the diamond films can be explained by the well-known Su-Schrieffer-Heeger “soliton” model which is supported by the observation of a zero-bias conductance peak.
OFETs Electric Characteristics with Different Organic Materials for Low-Power Flexible Electronics Design
Authors: Kaur Parminder , Raj Balwant , Bala Shashi , Raj Balwinder
Published: August 2024

Over the past decades, organic electronics have attracted wide research attention in transistors. One of the devices is organic field effect transistors (OFET), which brought a great revolution for their excellent mechanical flexibility, lightweight, low-temperature deposition, low manufacturing cost and conformable large coverage area, in contrast to conventional silicon-based transistors. This paper highlights the overview of OFET structure, operation and electrical parameters that affect the performance. The influence of gate dielectric thickness, electrode width and channel length on the behavior of transistors in terms of threshold voltage, current ratio and saturation mobility value has also been discussed. The progress in the development of organic semiconductor materials is also outlined, which helps to resolve the power consumption issue.
Experimental Study and Numerical Simulation of Thermal Effect on Dynamic Performance of High-Speed Maglev Train/Guideway System
Authors: Zhang Ziyang , Huang Jingyu , Ren Xudong , Lu Qifei , Xu Weinan , Zhang Long
Published: August 2024

The guideway’s alignment deviations are of concern when assessing the vibrations of high-speed maglev transportation systems. Among these, the deformation of the guideway due to solar thermal effects is a critical issue impacting the operational efficiency of a maglev train running on a guideway system. To address this issue, this study integrates solar radiation, shadow masking, heat convection and radiative heat transfer to present a thermal-mechanical coupling model for investigating the temperature-deformation field of guideway girders. Meanwhile, on-site measurements are conducted to confirm the feasibility of using temperature field distribution to estimate the thermal deformation of guideway girders. A solar-thermal field formula suitable for a maglev vehicle-guideway system is proposed to estimate the temperature field distribution on the guideway girders by referencing the formulas in the known specifications. Finally, this paper introduces an electromagnetic feedback controller that adjusts the maglev forces using real-time thermal deformation data to mitigate the effects of solar thermal-induced guideway deformation on the maglev vehicle-guideway system, demonstrating that the dynamic response of a maglev train is significantly influenced by the thermal deformation of guideway girders due to sensitive variations in levitation gaps.
Enhanced AlexNet for Detecting the Myocardial Infarction: An Efficient Approach
Authors: Bulbule Shamal , Soma Shridevi
Published: August 2024

Heart muscle damage is a result of myocardial infarction (MI), which is caused by inadequate blood supply. Around the world, MI is the leading cause of death for middle-aged and older people. To reduce the risk of MI, early detection is important. This detection is obtained by using a deep learning algorithm. In the literature, few methods are reviewed which does not provide optimal results for detection. Hence, in this paper, the Enhanced AlexNet is developed for an effective diagnosis (ED) to identify MI signals (EAlexNet). To train AlexNet and obtain the best results, a hybrid spider monkey optimization (SMO) and salp swarm optimization (SSO) algorithm is used. Four phases are taken into consideration in the paper to find the MI signals. The input dataset is used to construct the echo frames, and the formed frames are then trained using the EAlexNet. Then, using an adaptive algorithm called a support vector machine (SVM) with kernel function, the process of feature extraction is carried out. Finally, the proposed approach is used to complete the MI classification process. The normal (non-MI) and abnormal (MI) cases are identified from the proposed model. The HMC-QU dataset is taken into account for analysis purposes, and the effectiveness of the suggested strategy is assessed. The suggested approach is contrasted with the current approaches, including ResNet, MobileNet, and VGGNet, respectively. The suggested method is put into practise using the MATLAB platform, and the accuracy, sensitivity, precision, and specificity performance analysis is examined.
A Comprehensive Investigation of the Geometric Functionally Graded Auxetic Double Arrowhead Composite Lattice Structures: Exploring Tailored Longitudinal and Lateral Young’s Modulus
Authors: Dadashi Amin , Farrokhabadi Amin , Chronopoulos Dimitrios
Published: August 2024

Lattice structures with negative Poisson’s ratios (NPR) can integrate advanced functionalities in various engineering applications, including biomedical, aerospace and protective systems. This study explores the mechanical properties of auxetic double arrowhead honeycomb composites, a novel geometric functionally graded auxetic double arrowhead composite with NPR. Analytical expressions for Young’s modulus in both longitudinal and lateral directions are derived and validated using finite element simulations. To this aim, the Euler–Bernoulli beam theory and the free body diagram were used to investigate the elastic response on two different types of arrowhead composite structures. Two types of structures are investigated: uniform (constant forming angle) and geometrically functionally graded (varying forming angle with height). For experimental validation, chopped carbon fiber-reinforced polylactic acid (PLA) composite lattice structures were fabricated via fused filament fabrication. Results indicate that increasing the forming angle enhances lateral stiffness (Young’s modulus) while decreasing longitudinal stiffness. The rate of change of Young’s modulus in the lateral direction is higher than that in the longitudinal direction based on the variations of the forming angles. It was concluded that geometric functionally graded structures could simultaneously have a better elastic response with a more significant Young’s modulus for both longitudinal and lateral directions.
Enhanced Thermal Transport in Magnetized Cu–Fe3O4/Water Hybrid Nanofluid on a Curved Surface with Improved Heat Absorption Coefficient
Authors: Bhanu Lakshmi K. , Gangadhar Kotha , Rupa Lavanya M. , Wakif Abderrahim
Published: August 2024

This research utilizes the bvp4c method to conduct a detailed numerical analysis of the hydrothermal behavior of magnetized hybrid nanofluids flowing across a permeable curved surface. The study explores the impact of crucial parameters such as curvature, magnetic field strength, viscosity and suction/injection, alongside the heat absorption coefficient, on the transport properties of copper (Cu) and ferric oxide (Fe3O4) nanomaterial’s suspended in water. Results reveal that as the curvature parameter increases, velocity profiles exhibit a decrease under suction conditions and an increase under injection conditions for both conventional and hybrid nanofluids. Furthermore, higher magnetic parameters are found to decrease velocities in general. Hybrid nanofluids display enhanced velocity and thermal performance compared to conventional nanofluids, manifesting higher skin friction and heat transfer rates. Temperature profiles exhibit a complex interplay with curvature, magnetic parameters and the injection/suction scenario, where injection conditions intensify thermal effects. The incorporation of the heat absorption coefficient further amplifies the thermal efficiency of hybrid nanofluids. These findings, supported by previous research, offer valuable insights for optimizing industrial processes, especially in sectors like ceramics, plastics and polymers, where efficient heat management is paramount.
An Effective and Controllable Platform with Ag-Stepped Nanocone Arrays Serving as Stable SERS Substrate
Authors: Wang Jiuchuan , Fang Jinghuai , Cheng Mingfei , Wu Jing
Published: August 2024

Facile, controllable and efficient SERS substrate preparation has always been the focus project in the SERS field, especially the solid-state nanoarray substrate. Herein, a simple and convenient method for preparing a series of homogeneous Ag-stepped nanocone arrays (Ag-SNCAs) using polymer nanocompression printing is presented. By analyzing the 1162[Formula: see text]cm[Formula: see text] characteristic peak of crystal violet (CV), the relative standard deviation (RSD) of the Raman intensity was only 4.71%. The detection limit of malachite green (MG) reached 0.001[Formula: see text]ppm, and it also has good SERS detection results for drug molecules such as melamine, methadone, morphine, methamphetamine and thiabendazole. This work provides a large area uniform and controllable preparation method of sharp cone nanostructure array, which has important application in plasmonic photocatalysis and deep light field regulations.
MA-VoxelMorph: Multi-scale attention-based VoxelMorph for nonrigid registration of thoracoabdominal CT images
Authors: Huang Qing , Ren Lei , Quan Tingwei , Yang Minglei , Yuan Hongmei , Cao Kai
Published: August 2024

This paper aims to develop a nonrigid registration method of preoperative and intraoperative thoracoabdominal CT images in computer-assisted interventional surgeries for accurate tumor localization and tissue visualization enhancement. However, fine structure registration of complex thoracoabdominal organs and large deformation registration caused by respiratory motion is challenging. To deal with this problem, we propose a 3D multi-scale attention VoxelMorph (MA-VoxelMorph) registration network. To alleviate the large deformation problem, a multi-scale axial attention mechanism is utilized by using a residual dilated pyramid pooling for multi-scale feature extraction, and position-aware axial attention for long-distance dependencies between pixels capture. To further improve the large deformation and fine structure registration results, a multi-scale context channel attention mechanism is employed utilizing content information via adjacent encoding layers. Our method was evaluated on four public lung datasets (DIR-Lab dataset, Creatis dataset, Learn2Reg dataset, OASIS dataset) and a local dataset. Results proved that the proposed method achieved better registration performance than current state-of-the-art methods, especially in handling the registration of large deformations and fine structures. It also proved to be fast in 3D image registration, using about 1.5 s, and faster than most methods. Qualitative and quantitative assessments proved that the proposed MA-VoxelMorph has the potential to realize precise and fast tumor localization in clinical interventional surgeries.
Vietnam’s Strategic Choice in the Context of US–China Competition
Authors: Zhang Chaoying , Yilmaz Serafettin
Published: August 2024

As the US–China rivalry intensifies, countries in Southeast Asia find themselves having to oscillate between the two superpowers. Vietnam is one of those countries forced to make difficult strategic choices in a way that would not undermine its international standing vis-à-vis other regional stakeholders and, where possible, advance its national interests. This paper analyzes the factors influencing Vietnam’s policy within the Vietnam–US–China trilateral interaction. To this end, it compares the internal and external forces that impact Hanoi’s policy-making processes and extrapolates Vietnam’s foreign policy choices against the backdrop of US–China competition.
Towards Prototype-Based Self-Explainable Graph Neural Network
Authors: Dai Enyan , Wang Suhang
Published: August 2024

Graph Neural Networks (GNNs) have shown great ability in modeling graph-structured data for various domains. However, GNNs are known as black-box models that lack interpretability. Without understanding their inner working, we cannot fully trust them, which largely limits their adoption in high-stake scenarios. Though some initial efforts have been taken to interpret the predictions of GNNs, they mainly focus on providing
post hoc
explanations using an additional explainer, which could misrepresent the true inner working mechanism of the target GNN. The works on self-explainable GNNs are rather limited. Therefore, we study a novel problem of learning prototype-based self-explainable GNNs that can simultaneously give accurate predictions and prototype-based explanations on predictions. We design a framework which can learn prototype graphs that capture representative patterns of each class as class-level explanations. The learned prototypes are also used to simultaneously make prediction for a test instance and provide instance-level explanation. Extensive experiments on real-world and synthetic datasets show the effectiveness of the proposed framework for both prediction accuracy and explanation quality.
One day of environment-induced heat stress damages the murine myocardium
Authors: Roths Melissa , Rudolph Tori E. , Krishna Swathy , Michael Alyona , Selsby Joshua T.
Published: August 2024

The consequences of prolonged environment-induced heat stress (EIHS) on heart health are largely unknown. We discovered that a 24-h exposure to environmental conditions sufficient to cause EIHS resulted in cardiac edema and histopathologic changes in the right and left ventricles. Furthermore, among other biochemical changes, EIHS increased autophagic flux and caused endoplasmic reticulum stress. These data raise the possibility that thermic injury, even when insufficient to cause heat stroke, can damage the myocardium.
Determinant Factors of “Eucalyptus globulus” (Labill.) Woodlot Production in Tach Gayint District, South Gondar Zone, Amhara Region, Ethiopia
Authors: Wasie Addisu
Published: August 2024

Eucalyptus is the most preferred exotic species in different parts of Ethiopia, particularly in the northern part of the country, including the study area. Socioeconomic, institutional, and endowment variables are an influence on the production of this species. The purpose of this study was to identify determinants of Eucalyptus woodlot production for producer farmers in the study area. Multistage sampling techniques were used in order to select the district, kebeles, and household heads to be interviewed. The district and the kebeles were selected purposefully based on their high potential for Eucalyptus production, whereas ninety‐six (96) sampled respondent farmers were selected by using simple random sampling techniques. A multiple linear regression (OLS) model was used to run the determinants of Eucalyptus woodlot production, and descriptive statistics were used to describe the socioeconomic characteristics of smallholder Eucalyptus producers in the form of means, frequencies, and percentages. The respondents use Eucalyptus products for construction and fuel wood. Rural farmers produced about 70% of construction wood products and 30% of fuel wood products annually. Five variables (i.e., woodlot size, woodlot density, and market information) significantly affected woodlot production, whereas the age of farmers and market distance were negatively affected. In order to produce better income from Eucalyptus products, the collaboration efforts of all responsible groups (i.e., farmers, researchers, governments, and others) should be required.
A Novel Millimeter‐Wave Radar Interference Suppression Method Based on VMD and VI‐CFAR Algorithms
Authors: Lv Chao , Huang Xun , Li Guozheng , Liu Dongqi
Published: August 2024

With the increasing use of millimeter‐wave radar in automobiles, mutual interference between vehicle‐mounted millimeter‐wave radar systems is becoming increasingly serious. Mutual interference between vehicle‐mounted millimeter‐wave radars significantly reduces the accuracy of target parameter estimation and the reliability of target detection. In view of this, this study proposes an interference suppression method that combines the Variational Mode Decomposition (VMD) algorithm and Variation Index Constant False Alarm Rate (VI‐CFAR). First, the method performs adaptive decomposition of the intermediate frequency (IF) signals of an interfered vehicle‐mounted millimeter‐wave radar by VMD in order to obtain several different intrinsic modal functions (IMFs). Then, the relevant IMFs containing target information are identified based on the spectrograms of each IMF, followed by signal reconstruction of the relevant IMFs using VI‐CFAR. Finally, the relevant IMFs are superimposed to complete the signal reconstruction. In the case of simultaneous interference by several different interference radars, the results of simulation experiments show that the method can improve the Signal‐to‐Interference Ratio (SIR) of the target and increase the detection of the interfered target to a greater extent than the Adaptive Noise Cancellation (ANC), Empirical Modal Decomposition (EMD), and Iterative Zeroing methods. According to the SIR results of the simulation experiments, it can be seen that under the static interference of several slightly weak interference sources, the SIR of each target is improved by 8.1, 8.1, 5.8, and 7.9 dB, respectively, after suppressing the interference by the method, whereas in the dynamic cases of simultaneous interference of several strong interference sources and detection of several weak targets, the SIR of each target is improved by 4.6, 2.2, 7.9, and 6.8 dB, respectively. Therefore, the method has some performance advantages.