bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Biological plausible algorithm for seizure detection: Toward AI-enabled electroceuticals at the edge
Authors: Herbozo Contreras Luis Fernando , Huang Zhaojing , Yu Leping , Nikpour Armin , Kavehei Omid
Published: April 2024

Nearly 1% of people worldwide suffer from epilepsy. Electroencephalogram (EEG)-based diagnostics and monitoring tools, such as scalp EEG, subscalp EEG, stereo EEG, or sub/epi-dural EEG recordings [also known as electrocorticography (ECoG)], are widely used in different settings as the gold standard techniques to perform seizure identification, localization, and more primarily in epilepsy or suspected epilepsy in patients. Techniques such as subscalp EEG and ECoG offer long-term brain interaction, potentially replacing traditional electroceuticals with smart closed-loop therapies. However, these systems require continuous on-device training due to real-time demands and high power consumption. Inspired by the brain architecture, biologically plausible algorithms, such as some neuromorphic computing, show promise in addressing these challenges. In our research, we utilized liquid time-constant spiking neural networks with forward propagation through time to detect seizures in scalp-EEG. We trained and validated our model on the Temple University Hospital dataset and tested its generalization on out-of-sample data from the Royal Prince Alfred Hospital (RPAH) and EPILEPSIAE datasets. Our model achieved high area under the receiver operating characteristic curve (AUROC) scores of 0.83 in both datasets. We assessed the robustness by decreasing the memory size by 90% and obtained an overall AUROC of 0.82 in the RPAH dataset and 0.83 in the EPILEPSIAE dataset. Our model showed outstanding results of 3.1 μJ power consumption per inference and a 20% firing rate during training. This allows for incorporating bio-inspired efficient algorithms for on-device training, tackling challenges such as memory, power consumption, and efficiency.
One-dimensional, hybrid hydrodynamics-Boltzmann model for electron beam generated plasmas produced in low pressure argon
Authors: Petrova Tz. B. , Boris D. R. , Petrov G. M. , Johnson M. J. , Walton S. G.
Published: April 2024

A one-dimensional, hybrid hydrodynamics-Boltzmann model for electron beam (e-beam) generated plasmas in argon at low pressure and a constant magnetic field is developed. The e-beam separates the plasma into two distinct regions: an ionization zone irradiated by the e-beam that creates plasma and reactive species, and a diffusive zone between the e-beam and the chamber wall, where the species diffuse toward the wall. The Boltzmann equation is solved in the ionization zone and the electron energy distribution function is used to calculate rates participating in the species and power balance equations. Comparison of model and experimental data for the radial profiles of the electron density and temperature shows a favorable agreement. All plasma parameters are sensitive to their radial location.
Three-phase equilibria of hydrates from computer simulation. II. Finite-size effects in the carbon dioxide hydrate
Authors: Algaba J. , Blazquez S. , Feria E. , Míguez J. M. , Conde M. M. , Blas F. J.
Published: April 2024

In this work, the effects of finite size on the determination of the three-phase coexistence temperature (T3) of the carbon dioxide (CO2) hydrate have been studied by molecular dynamic simulations and using the direct coexistence technique. According to this technique, the three phases involved (hydrate–aqueous solution–liquid CO2) are placed together in the same simulation box. By varying the number of molecules of each phase, it is possible to analyze the effect of simulation size and stoichiometry on the T3 determination. In this work, we have determined the T3 value at 8 different pressures (from 100 to 6000 bar) and using 6 different simulation boxes with different numbers of molecules and sizes. In two of these configurations, the ratio of the number of water and CO2 molecules in the aqueous solution and the liquid CO2 phase is the same as in the hydrate (stoichiometric configuration). In both stoichiometric configurations, the formation of a liquid drop of CO2 in the aqueous phase is observed. This drop, which has a cylindrical geometry, increases the amount of CO2 available in the aqueous solution and can in some cases lead to the crystallization of the hydrate at temperatures above T3, overestimating the T3 value obtained from direct coexistence simulations. The simulation results obtained for the CO2 hydrate confirm the sensitivity of T3 depending on the size and composition of the system, explaining the discrepancies observed in the original work by Míguez et al. [J. Chem Phys. 142, 124505 (2015)]. Non-stoichiometric configurations with larger unit cells show a convergence of T3 values, suggesting that finite-size effects for these system sizes, regardless of drop formation, can be safely neglected. The results obtained in this work highlight that the choice of a correct initial configuration is essential to accurately estimate the three-phase coexistence temperature of hydrates by direct coexistence simulations.
Magnon spin capacitor
Authors: Gunnink Pieter M. , Ludwig Tim , Duine Rembert A.
Published: April 2024

In this work, we show that a magnon spin capacitor can be realized at a junction between two exchange coupled ferromagnets. In this junction, the buildup of magnon spin over the junction is coupled to the difference in magnon chemical potential, realizing the magnon spin analogue of an electrical capacitor. The relation between magnon spin and magnon chemical potential difference directly follows from considering the magnon density–density interaction between the two ferromagnets. We analyze the junction in detail by considering spin injection and detection from normal metal leads, the tunneling current across the junction, and magnon decay within the ferromagnet, showing that such a structure realizes a magnon spin capacitor in series with a spin resistor. Choosing yttrium iron garnet as the ferromagnet, we numerically calculate the magnon spin capacitance which ranges from picofarad to microfarad, depending on the area of the junction. We therefore conclude that the magnon spin capacitor could directly be of use in applications.
Thermoelectric performance enhancement of Pb-doped
α
-MgAgSb near room temperature
Authors: Li Guijuan , Li Juan , Zhao Linghao , Feng Jianghe , Liu Ruiheng
Published: April 2024

α-MgAgSb is taken as the p-type leg material for recently focused Mg-based thermoelectric devices because of the high thermoelectric performance near room temperature. However, the thermoelectric performance of α-MgAgSb is inhibited by the existence of the Ag-rich second phase. The ordinary methods like carrier concentration optimization and minimizing lattice thermal conductivity were nearly invalid because of the extremely low doping level for heteroatoms and intrinsically low lattice thermal conductivity. The crystal structure of α-MgAgSb can be viewed as Ag atom filled in half distorted hexahedron in the distorted rock salt skeleton formed by the Mg–Sb sublattice. In this work, by replacing the smaller Mg in the sublattice with Pb, the volume of the distorted hexahedron is effectively expanded to accommodate Ag atoms and then lead to the re-dissolution of Ag-rich second phase in the matrix. In addition, as Ag is the main source of low-frequency phonons, the enhanced lattice anharmonicity by Pb doping leads to stronger scattering of phonons in the distorted hexahedron and results in 20% reduction of lattice thermal conductivity in the temperature range of 300–500 K. Finally, the figure of merit zT is enhanced by ∼40% in the whole temperature range, demonstrating that lattice management is a promising method for the optimization of α-MgAgSb materials.
Dynamic magnetoelectric effect in bismuth-layer structured Aurivillius ceramics
Authors: Shi Yu , Koval Vladimir , Jia Chenglong
Published: April 2024

Multiferroic materials have been developed and studied for decades due to their potential applications in microelectronics and spintronics, such as multi-state digital memories, energy storage, and ultra-fast electric field-controlled magnetic sensors. Among these materials, magnetoelectric multiferroics exhibit a magnetoelectric (ME) interaction allowing for the manipulation of polarization by a magnetic field and magnetization by an electric field through internal strain and/or charge. However, strain-mediated ME effect is time-consuming and inefficient at high frequencies (∼ GHz). To address this issue and pave the way toward high frequency applications of ME multiferroics, we have systematically designed and characterized layered Bi5FeTi3O15-type Aurivillius ceramics for a strong dynamic ME coupling in the GHz band. By introducing cobalt and niobium ions into Bi4.3Gd0.7FeTi3O15, a phase evolution from a four-layered structure to a mixed structure consisting of four- and three-layered phases was revealed. The Co/Nb co-doping was found to enhance the magnetization at room temperature while preserving ferroelectricity. The understanding of the substitution-enhanced dynamic ME coupling at satellite and radar communication frequencies is expected to broaden the range of applications for ME multiferroics.
Dual-functional pentamode metamaterial with water-like and topological transmission properties
Authors: Chu Yangyang , Hu Yuan , Wang Guanxi , Wang Zhaohong
Published: April 2024

In this paper, a water-like pentamode metamaterial (PM) with a single metallic material is designed and the topological edge-state transmission properties of elastic waves in the PM are thoroughly investigated. Numerical results indicate that by introducing structural perturbation into PM, the Dirac point degeneracy at K-point can be opened and topological band inversion can be generated. Topological edge states are also obtained by organizing PM structural units, which are robust to defects such as bending and cavities. In addition, it also has the mimics water in acoustic properties over a wide frequency range, i.e. it exhibits transparency when surrounded by water. Therefore, it will have both good transmission efficiency and acoustic stealth performance when used as an underwater waveguide. The dual-functional PM proposed in this study provides theoretical guidance for designing underwater stealth acoustic waveguides.
Free energy of a two-liquid system of charge carriers in strongly coupled electron and phonon fields and common nature of three phases in hole-doped cuprates
Authors: Myasnikova A E , Doronkina S V , Arutyunyan R R , Dzhantemirov A H
Published: April 2024

Hole-doped cuprates exhibit partially coexisting pseudogap (PG), charge ordering (CO) and superconductivity; we show that there exists a class of systems in which they have a single nature as it has recently been supposed. Since the charge-ordered phase exhibits large frozen deformation of the lattice, we develop a method for calculating the phase diagram of a system with strong long-range (Fröhlich) electron–phonon interaction. Using a variational approach, we calculate the free energy of a two-liquid system of carriers with cuprate-like dispersion comprising a liquid of autolocalized carriers (large polarons and bipolarons) and Fermi liquid of delocalized carriers. Comparing it with the free energy of pure Fermi liquid and calculating (with standard methods of Bose liquid theory) a temperature of the superfluid transition in the large-bipolaron liquid we identify regions in the phase diagram with the presence of PG (caused by the impact of the (bi)polarons potential on delocalized quasiparticles), CO and superconductivity. They are located in the same places in the diagram as in hole-doped cuprates, and, as in the latter, the shape of the calculated phase diagram is resistant to wide-range changes in the characteristics of the system. As in cuprates, the calculated temperature of the superconducting transition increases with the number of conducting planes in the unit cell, the superfluid density decreases with doping at overdoping, the bipolaron density (and bipolaronic plasmon energy) saturates at optimal doping. Thus, the similarity of the considered system with hole-doped cuprates is not limited to the phase diagram. The results obtained allow us to discuss ways of increasing the temperature of the superfluid transition in the large-bipolaron liquid and open up the possibility of studying the current-carrying state and properties of the bipolaron condensate.
Nanoporous silver fabricated with pretreated Ag–Al alloy toward surface enhanced Raman sensing
Authors: Jing Zhiyu , Dong Yongle , Zhang Ling
Published: April 2024

Nanoporous silver (NPS), characterized by its three-dimensional bi-continuous interpenetrating ligament channel structure, is a good candidate for surface enhanced Raman scattering (SERS), attributed to its exceptional surface-to-volume ratio and significant SERS enhancement capabilities. Here, we have successfully fabricated NPS through the dealloying of α-terpineol (α-TPN) coated Ag55Al45 alloy. The resulting α-NPS exhibits uniform ligaments and nanopore sizes, maintaining high SERS performance even after being exposed to air for more than one month. The pretreatment of precusor alloy with α-TPN is crucial not only for the formation of nanoporous structure but also for ensuring the long term stability of α-NPS. Specifically, α-TPN functions as a surfactant, facilitating atomic diffusion to achieve a superior interconnected NPS. Furthermore, during the dealloying process, the carbonization of α-TPN serves as a protective layer, effectively inhibiting the oxidation of silver.
Texture-preserving low dose CT image denoising using Pearson divergence
Authors: Oh Jieun , Wu Dufan , Hong Boohwi , Lee Dongheon , Kang Minwoong , Li Quanzheng , Kim Kyungsang
Published: April 2024

Objective. The mean squared error (MSE), also known as L
2 loss, has been widely used as a loss function to optimize image denoising models due to its strong performance as a mean estimator of the Gaussian noise model. Recently, various low-dose computed tomography (LDCT) image denoising methods using deep learning combined with the MSE loss have been developed; however, this approach has been observed to suffer from the regression-to-the-mean problem, leading to over-smoothed edges and degradation of texture in the image. Approach. To overcome this issue, we propose a stochastic function in the loss function to improve the texture of the denoised CT images, rather than relying on complicated networks or feature space losses. The proposed loss function includes the MSE loss to learn the mean distribution and the Pearson divergence loss to learn feature textures. Specifically, the Pearson divergence loss is computed in an image space to measure the distance between two intensity measures of denoised low-dose and normal-dose CT images. The evaluation of the proposed model employs a novel approach of multi-metric quantitative analysis utilizing relative texture feature distance. Results. Our experimental results show that the proposed Pearson divergence loss leads to a significant improvement in texture compared to the conventional MSE loss and generative adversarial network (GAN), both qualitatively and quantitatively. Significance. Achieving consistent texture preservation in LDCT is a challenge in conventional GAN-type methods due to adversarial aspects aimed at minimizing noise while preserving texture. By incorporating the Pearson regularizer in the loss function, we can easily achieve a balance between two conflicting properties. Consistent high-quality CT images can significantly help clinicians in diagnoses and supporting researchers in the development of AI-diagnostic models.
Effect of surface topography and roughness on the leakage of static seals
Authors: Gu Zhengpeng , Dai Qingwen , Huang Wei , Wang Xiaolei
Published: April 2024

Static seal is widely used in modern machinery. Leakage of static seals would shorten the mechanical system’s service life and affect the environment. To understand the leakage characteristics of static seals, in this work, an experimental apparatus for leakage quantization was built. The effects of surface topography and roughness on the leakage performance of static seals subject to elevated pressure were highlighted. It was found that the leakage rate is negatively correlated with contact pressure. Orientation of surface topography affects the leakage, where the grinding scar parallel to the leakage direction contributes to the leakage, and the perpendicular grinding scar has an inhibiting effect. The leakage rate of irregular and discontinuous surface topography is lower than that of regular ones, and it increases with increasing surface roughness. Furthermore, the leakage mechanism of surface topography and roughness was revealed. This work provides general guidance for the parameters design of static seals.
Comparative study of cell interaction and bacterial adhesion on titanium of different composition, structure and surfaces with various laser treatment
Authors: Nekleionova Anna , Moztarzadeh Jana , Wiesnerova Lucie , Dvorakova Jana , Martinek Karel , Kulda Vlastimil , Hradil David , Duchek Michal , Babuska Vaclav
Published: April 2024

Titanium and its alloys are commonly used in modern implantology. Cell viability on the surface of titanium implants depends on the surface topography, roughness, and wettability. Laser treatment is a successful method to control the surface morphology. The aim of this study was to comprehensively investigate the effects of laser ablation on titanium surfaces and their interactions with cells and bacteria. Cell adhesion, proliferation, and bacterial retention on smooth and laser-textured samples of commercially pure and nanostructured titanium of two grades were evaluated. Femtosecond laser treatment effectively enhances the wettability. Titanium grade four exhibits superior adhesion and proliferation rates when compared to titanium grade two. The cytotoxicity of nanostructured titanium is significantly lower, regardless of the surface treatment. Laser treatment resulted in increased short-term cell proliferation on grade two titanium and long-term cell proliferation on nanostructured grade two titanium only. Although the laser ablation has a limited effect on bacterial adhesion, the coverage of less than 1% in most samples indicates that the material itself has an antibacterial effect on the bacterial strain Streptococcus oralis. These findings provide valuable insights into how different material structures and surface treatments can affect cellular response and antibacterial properties for potential use in dental implantology.
Sequential optimal selections of single-qubit gates in parameterized quantum circuits
Authors: Wada Kaito , Raymond Rudy , Sato Yuki , Watanabe Hiroshi C
Published: April 2024

In variational quantum algorithms, it is important to balance conflicting requirements of expressibility and trainability of a parameterized quantum circuit (PQC). However, appropriate PQC designs are not necessarily trivial. Here, we propose an algorithm for optimizing the PQC structure, where single-qubit gates are sequentially replaced by the optimal ones via diagonalization of a matrix whose elements are evaluated on slightly modified circuits. This replacement leads to a better approximation of target states with limited circuit depth. Furthermore, we clarify the existence of a barren plateau in the sequential optimization in terms of the spectrum concentration of the matrix, which defines the cost landscape with respect to changes in the target gate. Then, we rigorously show the concentration is no faster than polynomials in the number of qubits when an n-qubit PQC depth is

O
(
log
⁡

n

)

using local observables. Finally, numerical experiments are provided to show the convergence of our method which is faster than classical optimizers on both simulators and a real device. Our results provide evidences for sequential optimizers as better alternatives to optimize PQCs on near-term quantum devices.
Controlled phase distribution of quasi-2D perovskite enables improved electroluminescence
Authors: Kim Ga-Yeong , Jung Chan-Woo , Chin Sang-Hyun , Jeong Woo Hyeon , Lee Bo Ram , Kim Ji-Hee , Lee Jin-Wook
Published: April 2024

Quasi-two-dimensional (quasi-2D) perovskites are increasingly explored for integration into light-emitting diodes (LEDs) as light-emissive layers. However, the quasi-2D perovskite films likely exhibit non-uniform dimensional phase distribution and irregular internal crystal structures. These characteristics are known to contribute to undesirable effects, including non-radiative recombination losses and radiative recombination in perovskites of various dimensions, impeding the realization of efficient electroluminescence and high color purity in LEDs. In this study, we present an investigation on the correlation between the dimensional distribution of quasi-2D perovskites and charge carrier behavior by modulating anti-solvent dripping during the film fabrication processes. We provide a comprehensive analysis of the impact of controlled dimensional distribution on charge injection and recombination processes associated with the performance of quasi-2D perovskite LEDs. Our work emphasizes the crucial role played by controlled dimensionality in quasi-2D perovskites in realizing efficient and stable perovskite-based LEDs.
The effect of heterogeneous distributions of social norms on the spread of infectious diseases
Authors: Vilone Daniele , Vriens Eva , Andrighetto Giulia
Published: April 2024

The COVID-19 pandemic, caused by the SARS-CoV-2 virus, suddenly erupted in China at the beginning of 2020 and soon spread worldwide. This has resulted in an outstanding increase on research about the virus itself and, more in general, epidemics in many scientific fields. In this work we focus on the dynamics of the epidemic spreading and how it can be affected by the individual variability in compliance with social norms, i.e. in the adoption of preventive social norms by population’s members, which influences the infectivity rate throughout the population and through time. By means of theoretical considerations, we show how such heterogeneities of the infection rate make the population more resistant against the epidemic spreading. Finally, we depict possible empirical tests aimed to confirm our results.
Closed-loop Koopman operator approximation
Authors: Dahdah Steven , Forbes James Richard
Published: April 2024

This paper proposes a method to identify a Koopman model of a feedback-controlled system given a known controller. The Koopman operator allows a nonlinear system to be rewritten as an infinite-dimensional linear system by viewing it in terms of an infinite set of lifting functions. A finite-dimensional approximation of the Koopman operator can be identified from data by choosing a finite subset of lifting functions and solving a regression problem in the lifted space. Existing methods are designed to identify open-loop systems. However, it is impractical or impossible to run experiments on some systems, such as unstable systems, in an open-loop fashion. The proposed method leverages the linearity of the Koopman operator, along with knowledge of the controller and the structure of the closed-loop (CL) system, to simultaneously identify the CL and plant systems. The advantages of the proposed CL Koopman operator approximation method are demonstrated in simulation using a Duffing oscillator and experimentally using a rotary inverted pendulum system. An open-source software implementation of the proposed method is publicly available, along with the experimental dataset generated for this paper.
Advanced iontronic spiking modes with multiscale diffusive dynamics in a fluidic circuit
Authors: Kamsma T M , Rossing E A , Spitoni C , van Roij R
Published: April 2024

Fluidic iontronics is emerging as a distinctive platform for implementing neuromorphic circuits, characterised by its reliance on the same aqueous medium and ionic signal carriers as the brain. Drawing upon recent theoretical advancements in both iontronic spiking circuits and in dynamic conductance of conical ion channels, which form fluidic memristors, we expand the repertoire of proposed neuronal spiking dynamics in iontronic circuits. Through a modelled circuit containing channels that carry a bipolar surface charge, we extract phasic bursting, mixed-mode spiking, tonic bursting, and threshold variability, all with spike voltages and frequencies within the typical range for mammalian neurons. These features are possible due to the strong dependence of the typical conductance memory retention time on the channel length, enabling timescales varying from individual spikes to bursts of multiple spikes within a single circuit. These advanced forms of neuronal-like spiking support the exploration of aqueous iontronics as an interesting platform for neuromorphic circuits.
Prediction of ambulance transport system collapse under extremely high temperatures induced by climate change
Authors: Oka Kazutaka , Honda Yasushi , Hijioka Yasuaki
Published: April 2024

The heat-related health impacts of extremely high temperatures have become increasingly severe worldwide. Quantitative information on these impacts is necessary to plan and implement adaptation measures. The present study aimed to predict the number of heatstroke ambulance calls (HAC) and ambulance occupancy rate of patients with heatstroke (AORPH) under extremely high temperatures in Tokyo, Japan. Extremely high temperatures were defined as the annual highest value of daily maximum temperature that occurs once every 30 y (30 y temp) or 50 y (50 y temp). Combinations of three greenhouse gas (GHG) emission scenarios and five climate models were adopted to predict the impacts during the base years (1985–2014), mid-21st century (2021–2050), and late 21st century (2071–2100). Furthermore, two types of populations were adopted: fixed and changing. In the case of 50 y temp, the HAC during the peak hour in the base years ranged from 52 to 130 persons across the climate models. In the case of a fixed population, in the late 21st century it ranged from 123 to 2618 persons across the climate models and GHG scenarios. In the case of a changing population, the corresponding values in late 21st century ranged from 128 to 3078 persons. The AORPH during the peak hour ranged from 32% to 80% during the base years for 50 y temp, assuming that all ambulances were dispatched for heatstroke only. In the late 21st century, it ranged from 75% to 1605% in the fixed population case. With population change, the corresponding values in late 21st century ranged from 83% to 1781%. In many scenarios, not all patients with heatstroke could be transported (AORPH > 100%) even if all ambulances have been dispatched. Therefore, adaptation measures that mitigate such an ambulance transport system collapse must be planned and implemented.
Physical and Computational Description
Authors: Anderson Neal G , Piccinini Gualtiero
Published: April 2024

This chapter examines physical and computational descriptions and their respective targets. It introduces the elements of physical description and a classification of physical descriptions by their granularity, specificity, and completeness. Depending on their level of granularity, physical descriptions may be microscopic or macroscopic. Depending on their degree of specificity, physical descriptions may be structural or constitutive. Finally, physical descriptions may be complete or partial. The chapter similarly introduces the elements of formal definitions of computations and highlights similarities and differences between physical and computational descriptions in preparation for their hybridization in physical-computational descriptions of physical computing systems. The key difference is that a physical system may possess features not captured by some of its physical descriptions, whereas a formally defined computing system is completely specified by its formal computational description.
Methodology in Metaethics
Authors: Bengson John , Cuneo Terence , Shafer-Landau Russ
Published: April 2024

This chapter makes explicit ideas about method and data that figure centrally in the book’s inquiry into the central questions of metaethics. The discussion has four main sections. The first presents the methodology employed throughout the book. At its heart is the ‘Tri-Level Method,’ according to which theory construction occurs at three levels: at level one, theories are called to handle relevant data; at level two, to substantiate claims made when handling data, while also integrating these claims with our best picture of the world; and at level three, to determine (if necessary) whether the resulting theory is theoretically more virtuous than rival ones. The chapter’s second section characterizes philosophical data. The third identifies core metaethical data, as they pertain to the metaphysics and normativity of morality. The fourth elucidates the ideological resources—concepts, properties, truths, facts, grounding, and essence—upon which the book draws.
Moral Reality
Authors: Bengson John , Cuneo Terence , Shafer-Landau Russ
Published: April 2024

Moral Realism is committed to the existence of moral truths and facts. Can this commitment be defended and explained? Chapter 4 endeavors to do both. It presents a distinctive defense of the existence of moral truths and facts centering on the idea that there are ‘moral fixed points.’ These are platitudes such as: protecting one’s children from lethal danger is morally required, and recreationally slaughtering fellow persons is morally prohibited. This chapter contends that these and other moral fixed points are moral truths and facts that hold fully in virtue of the essences of the non-normative concepts or properties that figure in their antecedents. It follows that if these non-normative concepts and properties are satisfied or instantiated, then there are moral truths and facts. A distinctive feature of this defense is its capacity to undergird an explanation of the existence of such facts and truths. In addition to providing this defense and explanation, the chapter employs an epistemic procedure—‘Pricean reflection,’ inspired by Richard Price—to support the claims about the moral essences of certain non-normative properties advanced by the Essentialist Thesis.
Categoricity without Alienation
Authors: Bengson John , Cuneo Terence , Shafer-Landau Russ
Published: April 2024

The idea that there are categorical moral reasons has been the subject of many critiques. This chapter discusses and replies to three important objections, each inspired by the idea—dubbed the Non-Alienation thesis—that something qualifies as a practical reason only if the agents to whom it applies are not alienated from it. The first objection claims that reasons must be capable of motivating those to whom they apply; categorical moral reasons (it is alleged) are motivationally inert; so there are no such reasons. The second objection is based on a version of reasons internalism according to which something qualifies as a practical reason for an agent only if it would be aptly cited in a context of idealized conversation with her; categorical reasons are (allegedly) never apt for such citation; so categorical moral reasons don’t exist. The third objection claims that something is a practical reason for an agent to φ just because φing promotes the satisfaction of her desires; if that is the case, there are no categorical moral reasons; so there are no such reasons. The chapter shows all three objections to be mistaken. The upshot is that categorical moral reasons are a friend rather than foe of the Non-Alienation thesis.
Why Be Moral?
Authors: Bengson John , Cuneo Terence , Shafer-Landau Russ
Published: April 2024

This chapter addresses four challenges to morality’s authority. The first casts doubt on the comparative importance of moral reasons vis-à-vis those implied by other familiar normative systems, such as those associated with etiquette or social clubs. If strong moral reasons typically play second fiddle to such rivals, then morality would indeed be sapped of its authority. Likewise if religious duties of certain kinds take precedence over even the strongest moral considerations. This possibility, suggested by Kierkegaard’s treatment of ethics in Fear and Trembling, represents the second challenge. The third alleges that realists have no answer to the “normative question” of why we should, from a first-personal perspective, take morality at all seriously. At issue is not whether strong moral reasons exist, but whether they earn their grip on an agent who is thinking about how best to live; their failure to do so would be tantamount to a crisis of authority. All three varieties of ‘intramural skepticism’ contrast with an ‘extramural’ sort that queries the relation between strong moral reasons and what some philosophers call “schmeasons,” which are allegedly implied by so-called schmoral systems. If there were no way to make good on the superiority of strong moral reasons over these competitors, then morality’s authority would likewise be jeopardized. This is the fourth challenge.
The Principle of Befittingness
Authors: Bengson John , Cuneo Terence , Shafer-Landau Russ
Published: April 2024

What is it for an action to be morally required or prohibited? This chapter answers that question by enlisting the Principle of Befittingness: an act is morally required if, only if, and because it is befitting; an act is morally prohibited if, only if, and because it is unbefitting. The chapter defends this principle by revealing its explanatory power—among other important explananda, the Principle of Befittingness helps to explain why actions instantiate deontic properties, why there are strong moral reasons, and why instantiations of those properties give these reasons. The Principle of Befittingness is also able to systematize other, more familiar candidate fundamental deontic principles (consequentialist, deontological, and so forth). The chapter proceeds to locate the befittingness properties and strong moral reasons in the essence of moral requirement and prohibition. For instance, what it is for an action to be morally required is for it to be befitting, and for there to be strong moral reasons to perform it. This claim plays a crucial role in the argument for nonnaturalism developed in Chapter 13.
Endoscopic Primary Breast Augmentation With Loco-Regional Anesthesia: Preliminary Experience of 200 Consecutive Patients
Authors: Antonino Araco
Published: April 2024

Background

Breast augmentation with implants recorded over 1.6 billion procedures globally in 2022. To reduce surgical trauma and complications and facilitate a fast recovery, we employ an ultrasound-guided local–regional anesthesia technique, the creation of a partial submuscular implant pocket by direct endoscopic visualization and minimal skin access on the mammary fold.

Objectives

The aim in this study is to evaluate whether breast augmentation performed in endoscopy under local–regional anesthesia reduces postoperative recovery time, reduces complications, and increases patient satisfaction.

Methods

Patients provided their consent through a signed form. We set strict inclusion and exclusion criteria. We prospectively evaluated postoperative pain and recovery times, the rate of complications, and patient satisfaction at 12 months postsurgery.

Results

Between January 2021 and September 2022, 200 patients met the inclusion criteria. The average operation time was 54.2 min. Patients were discharged from the hospital within 2 to 3 h. Eighty-nine percent of patients expressed great satisfaction with the result. None of the patients experienced postsurgical complications.

Conclusions

In our initial study, we showed that endoscopic breast augmentation conducted under localized anesthesia is safe. It allows for quick recovery postsurgery and swift resumption of everyday activities. The overall complication risk is less than what has been reported in scientific studies for the classic dual-plane technique. Moreover, this approach yields excellent patient satisfaction. Additional prospective and randomized studies will be required to enhance the scientific validity of this technique. Moreover, a larger patient cohort will be essential to stratify the risks associated with varying prosthetic volumes.

Level of Evidence: 4
Value of dynamic computed tomography myocardial perfusion in CAD: a systematic review and meta-analysis
Authors: Kawaguchi Yuma , Kato Shingo , Horita Nobuyuki , Utsunomiya Daisuke
Published: April 2024

Aims

Dynamic stress computed tomography (CT) perfusion is a non-invasive method for quantifying myocardial ischaemia by assessing myocardial blood flow (MBF). In this meta-analysis, we evaluated the diagnostic accuracy of dynamic CT perfusion for the detection of significant coronary artery disease (CAD) across various CT scanners, obese patients, and its prognostic value.

Methods and results

We systematically searched PubMed, Embase, Web of Science, and Cochrane library for published studies evaluating the accuracy of CT myocardial perfusion in diagnosing functional significant ischaemia by invasive fractional flow reserve. The diagnostic performance of dynamic CT perfusion in detecting ischaemia was evaluated using a summary receiver operating characteristic (sROC) curve. A total of 23 studies underwent meta-analysis. In myocardial region without ischaemia, MBF was measured at 1.39 mL/min/g [95% confidence interval (CI) 1.25–1.54], while in region with ischaemia, it was 0.92 mL/min/g (95% CI 0.83–1.01) (P < 0.001). On the patient-based analysis, the area under the sROC curve of CT-MBF was 0.92, with a sensitivity of 0.82 and specificity of 0.86. Differences in CT type (dual source vs. single source), and body mass index did not significantly affect the diagnostic performance. The pooled hazard ratio of dynamic CT perfusion for predicting adverse events was 4.98 (95% CI 2.08–11.93, P ≤ 0.001, I2 = 61%, P for heterogeneity = 0.07).

Conclusion

Dynamic CT perfusion has high diagnostic performance in the quantitative assessment of ischaemia and detection of functional myocardial ischaemia as defined by invasive FFR and may be useful in risk stratification of CAD patients.
Clinical impact of stellate ganglion phototherapy on ventricular tachycardia storm requiring mechanical circulatory support devices: a case report
Authors: Takahashi Kei , Egami Yasuyuki , Nishino Masami , Tanouchi Jun
Published: April 2024

Background

Ventricular arrhythmias are a significant cause of morbidity and mortality in patients with ischaemic heart disease. When pharmacologic therapies, catheter ablation (CA), and implantable cardioverter defibrillator (ICD) are ineffective, stellate ganglion blockade (SGB), sympathectomy, and renal sympathetic denervation are considered. However, they are invasive for patients with high bleeding risk. We present a case of successfully recovering from haemodynamically unstable ventricular tachycardia (VT) storm with stellate ganglion phototherapy (SGP) in a non-invasive manner.

Case summary

A 73-year-old male presented to the emergency department with chief complaint of general malaise, resulting from VT storm associated with ischaemic cardiomyopathy. He had a history of CA and implantation of ICD. Despite multiple electrical cardioversions, pharmacologic therapies, and deep sedation with mechanical circulatory support (MCS), VT storm was not controlled. Thereafter, we irradiated the patient’s neck with SGP to inhibit sympathetic neurological activity, which suppressed VT storm and dramatically improved his haemodynamic status.

Discussion

It has been reported that SGP is an alternative to SGB for refractory VT storm. Stellate ganglion phototherapy was easy and non-invasive to perform because we just irradiated the patient’s neck with the near-infrared light for 5 min per day. If conventional therapies are ineffective in suppressing VT storm, SGP may be considered as a next step, especially for patients with high bleeding risk. However, since the effect of a single SGP lasts only 1–2 days, it should be performed as a bridge therapy to CA or sympathectomy. Stellate ganglion phototherapy may be effective in suppressing VT storm that requires MCS devices.
Tackling capacitive coupling in broad-band spectral electrical impedance tomography (sEIT) measurements by selecting electrode configurations
Authors: Wang Haoran , Huisman Johan Alexander , Zimmermann Egon , Vereecken Harry
Published: April 2024

Electromagnetic (EM) coupling effects including both inductive and capacitive coupling have long been an essential problem in broad-band spectral electrical impedance tomography (sEIT) measurements at the field scale. Efforts have been made to remove EM coupling numerically or to suppress the effects by modified data acquisition strategies. For near-surface applications with relatively small survey layouts, inductive coupling can be well removed in the mHz to kHz frequency range. With the use of shielded coaxial cables and so-called active electrodes where the amplifiers are mounted at the electrodes, capacitive coupling in sEIT measurements can also be reduced. However, it remains challenging to cope with capacitive coupling between the cable shield and the ground, especially in resistive field conditions. The aim of this study is to deal with this type of capacitive coupling effect by identifying and filtering out sEIT measurements that are strongly affected by capacitive coupling. Based on a correction method for capacitive coupling proposed in a previous study, an approach to estimate measurement errors due to capacitive coupling is presented first. In the second step, a workflow was proposed to calculate the capacitive coupling strength (CCS) for each electrode configuration, which is defined as the ratio of the imaginary part of the impedance induced by capacitive coupling and the imaginary part of the impedance due to the subsurface electrical conductivity. In the final step, measurements with low CCS were selected for inversion and the results were compared with inversion results obtained using the previously developed correction approach. It was found that the filtering method based on CCS is more capable in tackling capacitive coupling compared to using model-based corrections. Spectrally consistent sEIT results up to kHz were obtained using the newly developed filtering method, which were not achieved in previous work using model-based correction.
Role of Supplemental Breast MRI in Screening Women with Mammographically Dense Breasts: A Systematic Review and Meta-analysis
Authors: Faheem Michael , Tam Hui Zhen , Nojoum Magd , Suaris Tamara , Jahan Noor , Lloyd Thomas , Johnson Laura , Aggarwal Shweta , Ullah MdZaker , Thompson Erik W , Brentnall Adam R
Published: April 2024

Background

High mammographic density increases breast cancer risk and reduces mammographic sensitivity. We reviewed evidence on accuracy of supplemental MRI for women with dense breasts at average or increased risk.

Methods

PubMed and Embase were searched 1995-2022. Articles were included if women received breast MRI following 2D or tomosynthesis mammography. Risk of bias was assessed using QUADAS-2. Analysis used independent studies from the articles. Fixed-effect meta-analytic summaries were estimated for predefined groups (PROSPERO: 230277).

Results

Eighteen primary research articles (24 studies) were identified in women aged 19-87 years. Breast density was heterogeneously or extremely dense (BI-RADS C/D) in 15/18 articles and extremely dense (BI-RADS D) in 3/18 articles. Twelve of 18 articles reported on increased-risk populations. Following 21 440 negative mammographic examinations, 288/320 cancers were detected by MRI. Substantial variation was observed between studies in MRI cancer detection rate, partly associated with prevalent vs incident MRI exams (prevalent: 16.6/1000 exams, 12 studies; incident: 6.8/1000 exams, 7 studies). MRI had high sensitivity for mammographically occult cancer (20 studies with at least 1-year follow-up). In 5/18 articles with sufficient data to estimate relative MRI detection rate, approximately 2 in 3 cancers were detected by MRI (66.3%, 95% CI, 56.3%-75.5%) but not mammography. Positive predictive value was higher for more recent studies. Risk of bias was low in most studies.

Conclusion

Supplemental breast MRI following negative mammography in women with dense breasts has breast cancer detection rates of ~16.6/1000 at prevalent and ~6.8/1000 at incident MRI exams, considering both high and average risk settings.
Morphological and biochemical changes in Quercus humboldtii in response to warmer and polluted urban areas in a tropical Andean city
Authors: Camargo Miguel Angel , Melgarejo Luz Marina , Faerito Geisa , Pérez Ingry , Salgado-Negret Beatriz
Published: April 2024

The rapid growth of urban population has significantly changed human settlement patterns, leading to a decline in air quality and changes in climatic conditions in urban areas. Trees are recognized as nature-based solutions because they can remove particles from the air and regulate the climate. However, trees are negatively affected by pollution and temperatures, which represent a challenge for urban planning, management, and human health. To assess the impact of urban pollution and warmer climates on functional traits, we conducted a study using Quercus humboldtii, an endangered tree species endemic to Colombia and Panamá that dominates Andean forests and urban green areas in Bogotá. We selected three localities with contrasting pollution levels and climate conditions and measured 10 morphological and biochemical traits in six individuals at each location. Our findings revealed that Q. humboldtii adjusted morphological and biochemical traits in response to the environmental challenges posed by urban environments. The functional strategies varied between individuals with thin and large leaves and acidic pH in the colder and unpolluted native forest, while others displayed a conservative resource strategy (high leaf dry matter content) and neutral pH in the warmer and most polluted locality. Despite these differences, several traits indicate that Q. humboldtii is not a species tolerant to pollution. This is further supported by the air pollution tolerance index (APTI) values. Our results suggest that Q. humboldtii should be planted in areas of Bogotá with low pollution levels in order to promote its long-term survival and support ecosystem services.
Proteome reorganization and amino acid metabolism during germination and seedling establishment in Lupinus albus
Authors: Angermann Cecile , Heinemann Björn , Hansen Jule , Töpfer Nadine , Braun Hans-Peter , Hildebrandt Tatjana M
Published: April 2024

During germination plants rely entirely on their seed storage compounds to provide energy and precursors for the synthesis of macromolecular structures until the seedling has emerged from the soil and photosynthesis can be established. Lupin seeds use proteins as their major storage compounds, accounting for up to 40% of the seed dry weight. Lupins are therefore a valuable complement to soy as a source of plant protein for human and animal nutrition. The aim of this study was to elucidate how storage protein metabolism is coordinated with other metabolic processes to meet the requirements of the growing seedling. In a quantitative approach, we analysed seedling growth, as well as alterations in biomass composition, the proteome, and metabolite profiles during germination and seedling establishment in Lupinus albus. The reallocation of nitrogen resources from seed storage proteins to functional seed proteins was mapped based on a manually curated functional protein annotation database. Although classified as a protein crop, Lupinus albus does not use amino acids as a primary substrate for energy metabolism during germination. However, fatty acid and amino acid metabolism may be integrated at the level of malate synthase to combine stored carbon from lipids and proteins into gluconeogenesis.