bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Unsupervised end-to-end multiscale neural network for multi-focus MicroLED image fusion
Authors: Yu Wenlin , Chen Jinbiao , Li Cheng
Published: August 2024

MicroLED has a broad application prospect in visible light communication, medical detection, and other fields, owing to its small size, high integration, and long service life. However, capturing a full-focus image during microscopic visual inspection of MicroLED is challenging due to the significant thickness of the chip. To address this problem, an end-to-end neural network named MMLFuse is proposed for MicroLED image fusion, which uses unsupervised learning to directly generate fused images from two original images. Firstly, we introduce the Spatial Pyramid Pooling Mixing (SPPM) module for rapid extraction of partially focused image features. The extracted features are then used to obtain a weight map, which is further refined using a moving window smoothing technique. This refined weight map is employed for feature fusion, and the fused image is reconstructed based on the fused features. Specifically, the network uses a two-stage training strategy with different loss functions for each stage to improve the convergence speed of the model and the quality of the fused image. In particular, mask loss is designed in the second stage to ensure that the network pays more attention to the focus area during training to accurately match the corresponding input image. Experimental results demonstrate that MMLFuse achieves superior performance on the MicroLED dataset compared to other classical methods, highlighting its effectiveness and potential in the field.
Universal thermodynamic constraints revealed in few-particle systems on 2D material surfaces
Authors: Ziani Faten , Boudiar Abid
Published: August 2024

Our study reveals a profound connection between hidden thermodynamics and the properties of small systems, shedding light on fundamental properties of isolated particles, such as pressure and enthalpy. This research has allowed the identification of three universal regions within these systems, improving our understanding of small-scale phenomena.
Asymmetricity in fluorescence peaks of a three level Λ-type quantum emitter placed near a spherical metal nanoparticle
Authors: Mishra Abhay
Published: August 2024

A generalized master equation is derived here for a hybrid three level Λ-type quantum emitter-metal nanoparticle (MNP) system in the presence of strong external fields. With this new master equation, we show the spectral reshaping of the fluorescence peaks leading to asymmetric peak heights. This asymmetricity is attributed to dressed state-reservoir coupling and strong coherent fields. The coupling of reservoir with dressed states results in different sampling of local density of states (LDOS) of the vacuum field by dressed state transitions, giving different transition probabilities to each peak. We have further explored the directional features of the resonance fluorescence spectrum in the hybrid system. These observations of spectral reshaping in a three-level-MNP system opens new directions for studying tunable electromagnetically induced transparency utilizing ‘tailored vacuum’ in quantum plasmonics.
Optimization of structure, optical, magnetic, and radiation shielding properties of ZnO@xSrFe12O19 nanocomposites
Authors: Reda A M , Ahmed Emad M , Azab A A
Published: August 2024

In this work, the pristine ZnO, SrFe12O19 (SFO), and their nanocomposites (ZnO/x SFO: x = 1, 3 and 5%) were synthesized by co-precipitation and sonomechanical method. The x-ray diffraction data validate the preparation of ZnO, SFO, and nanocomposite samples with high phase purity. The optical band gap was calculated from UV–vis-NIR diffuse reflectance measurements, and it was modified by increasing SFO content. Adding 1, 3, and 5 wt% of SFO to the ZnO matrix showed ferromagnetic characteristics for the nanocomposites with a squareness ratio of around 0.49, which considered these nanocomposites as a magnetic semiconductor suitable for digital memory and spintronic applications. Additionally, the radiation shielding features of the prepared samples were evaluated. The shielding parameters for the studied samples were obtained using the Phy-X/PSD program. The fast neutron removal cross-section of SFO was 0.094 cm−1, the highest among the investigated samples, while the composites had similar values, about 0.083 cm−1. The results indicated that the γ--ray attenuation ability and the values of exposure buildup factor for the prepared samples were close. Therefore, ZnO, SFO, and their nanocomposites compared to stationary shielding materials (SMs), can be candidates for applications where radiation protection is needed.
Enhancing light absorption in ultra-thin perovskite solar cells using plasmonic gold nanoparticle clusters
Authors: Bahador Hamid , Abdoli Zahra
Published: August 2024

Perovskite solar cells with ultra-thin absorber layers offer potential cost savings in manufacturing, but their reduced thickness can limit light absorption and efficiency. This work explores using plasmonic gold nanoparticles as a light-trapping strategy to compensate for lower absorption in ultra-thin perovskite devices. Numerical simulations investigate embedding 25 nm radius gold nanoparticles within the 200 nm thick perovskite active layer to boost optical absorption through near-field enhancement and light scattering effects. The solar cell structure incorporating these plasmonic nanoparticles achieves a substantially higher short-circuit current density of 23.10 mA cm−2 compared to 18.70 mA cm−2 for a reference cell without nanoparticles. This study provides design approaches for realizing high-efficiency yet cost-effective ultra-thin perovskite photovoltaics by harnessing plasmonic light-trapping techniques. The results display methodologies to improve photon absorption and power conversion in thin-film perovskite devices through strategic nanoparticle integration.
Pairing phase transition in the odd-A nuclei: identification and classification*
Authors: Wang 王 Yumeng 宇萌 , Gao 高 Yuhang 宇航 , Liu 刘 Lang 朗
Published: August 2024

Research on the pairing phase transition in the odd-A nucleus

is based on a sophisticated blend of the covariant density functional theory and the shell-model-like approach. It has been observed that variations in thermodynamic quantities at the critical temperature do not exclusively align with pairing phase transitions. The presence of an S-shaped heat capacity curve, often interpreted as an indicator of such transitions, does not offer a definitive confirmation. Additional factors, including the blocking effect, can modify the heat capacity curve and impede the transition process. The pairing phase transition in

, which occurs approximately from 0.7 to 1.0 MeV, is unequivocally characterized as a first-order transition. Furthermore, the analysis of the impact of varying strengths of pairing correlations on these transitions reveals a nonlinear relationship, thereby adding complexity to the transition dynamics.
EEG workload estimation and classification: a systematic review
Authors: Hassan Jahid , Reza Md. Shamim , Ahmed Syed Udoy , Anik Nazmul Haque , Khan Md. Obaydullah
Published: August 2024

Objective. Electroencephalography (EEG) has evolved into an indispensable instrument for estimating cognitive workload in various domains. ML and DL techniques have been increasingly employed to develop accurate workload estimation and classification models based on EEG data. The goal of this systematic review is to compile the body of research on EEG workload estimation and classification using ML and DL approaches. Methods. The PRISMA procedures were followed in conducting the review, searches were conducted through databases at SpringerLink, ACM Digital Library, IEEE Explore, PUBMED, and Science Direct from the beginning to the end of February 16, 2024. Studies were selected based on predefined inclusion criteria. Data were extracted to capture study design, participant demographics, EEG features, ML/DL algorithms, and reported performance metrics. Results. Out of the 125 items that emerged, 33 scientific papers were fully evaluated. The study designs, participant demographics, and EEG workload measurement and categorization techniques used in the investigations differed. SVM, CNN, and hybrid networks are examples of ML and DL approaches that were often used. Analyzing the accuracy scores achieved by different ML/DL models. Furthermore, a relationship was noted between sample frequency and model accuracy, with higher sample frequencies generally leading to improved performance. The percentage distribution of ML/DL methods revealed that SVMs, CNNs, and RNNs were the most commonly utilized techniques, reflecting their robustness in handling EEG data. Significance. The comprehensive review emphasizes how ML may be used to identify mental workload across a variety of disciplines using EEG data. Optimizing practical applications requires multimodal data integration, standardization efforts, and real-world validation studies. These systems will also be further improved by addressing ethical issues and investigating new EEG properties, which will improve human-computer interaction and performance assessment.
Epileptic network identification: insights from dynamic mode decomposition of sEEG data
Authors: Nieto Ramos Alejandro , Krishnan Balu , Alexopoulos Andreas V , Bingaman William , Najm Imad , Bulacio Juan C , Serletis Demitre
Published: August 2024

Objective. For medically-refractory epilepsy patients, stereoelectroencephalography (sEEG) is a surgical method using intracranial electrode recordings to identify brain networks participating in early seizure organization and propagation (i.e. the epileptogenic zone, EZ). If identified, surgical EZ treatment via resection, ablation or neuromodulation can lead to seizure-freedom. To date, quantification of sEEG data, including its visualization and interpretation, remains a clinical and computational challenge. Given elusiveness of physical laws or governing equations modelling complex brain dynamics, data science offers unique insight into identifying unknown patterns within high-dimensional sEEG data. We apply here an unsupervised data-driven algorithm, dynamic mode decomposition (DMD), to sEEG recordings from five focal epilepsy patients (three with temporal lobe, and two with cingulate epilepsy), who underwent subsequent resective or ablative surgery and became seizure free. Approach. DMD obtains a linear approximation of nonlinear data dynamics, generating coherent structures (‘modes′) defining important signal features, used to extract frequencies, growth rates and spatial structures. DMD was adapted to produce dynamic modal maps (DMMs) across frequency sub-bands, capturing onset and evolution of epileptiform dynamics in sEEG data. Additionally, we developed a static estimate of EZ-localized electrode contacts, termed the higher-frequency mode-based norm index (MNI). DMM and MNI maps for representative patient seizures were validated against clinical sEEG results and seizure-free outcomes following surgery. Main results. DMD was most informative at higher frequencies, i.e. gamma (including high-gamma) and beta range, successfully identifying EZ contacts. Combined interpretation of DMM/MNI plots best identified spatiotemporal evolution of mode-specific network changes, with strong concordance to sEEG results and outcomes across all five patients. The method identified network attenuation in other contacts not implicated in the EZ. Significance. This is the first application of DMD to sEEG data analysis, supporting integration of neuroengineering, mathematical and machine learning methods into traditional workflows for sEEG review and epilepsy surgical decision-making.
Disappearance of dimits shift in realistic fusion reactor plasmas with negative magnetic shear
Authors: Yang Dingkun , Li Shengming , Xiao Yong , Lin Zhihong
Published: August 2024

This study employs gyrokinetic simulations to investigate ion temperature gradient (ITG) turbulence in realistic fusion reactor plasmas featuring reversed magnetic shear. The weakly negative magnetic shear is observed to be more stable for the ITG instability than strongly positive shear in this equilibrium configuration, primarily stemming from the scarcity of mode rational surfaces induced by the weak negative shear. This superiority in suppression for the negative shear persists in nonlinear turbulence with zonal flow artificially eliminated, where the emergence of turbulence solitons is observed and found associated with locally dense mode rational surfaces. However, the difference in transport levels among different magnetic shears diminishes in the presence of self-consistently generated zonal flow, accompanied by the disappearance of turbulence solitons. The nonlinear generation of zonal flow is found to be significantly affected by the magnetic shear. The study reveals a remarkable phenomenon that the Dimits shift no longer exists for negative magnetic shear, which is attributed to the weakness of the zonal flow generation near the ITG marginal stability.
Two-phase flow simulation of the catalyst layer/microporous layer interfacial wettability in PEMFCs
Authors: Wang Mengli , Zhu Lijun , Sui Pang-Chieh
Published: August 2024

To address the microscale two-phase flow issues at the catalyst layer (CL)/microporous layer (MPL) interface in proton exchange membrane fuel cells (PEMFCs), the lattice Boltzmann method is used to simulate the liquid water transport at the CL/MPL interface with different wettability. By clarifying the CL/MPL interfacial volume saturation and surface saturation distribution, the effect of CL contact angle on liquid water transport is revealed. The results show that when the CL is hydrophilic, the CL/MPL interfacial water saturation increases as the CL contact angle increases. Oppositely, when the CL is hydrophobic, the CL/MPL interfacial water saturation decreases as the CL contact angle increases. Further, when both the MPL and CL contact angles are 130°, water drainage at the CL/MPL interface performs the best.
Multi-objective optimization model of energy storage participating in peak load regulation of power grid
Authors: Mao Lilin , Luo Luo , Leng Zhaojin , Li Qin , Wang Linan , Cui Yiqiong
Published: August 2024

There is an increasing amount of new energy power generation being applied in power systems. However, the peak shaving problem faced by the power grid is becoming more and more significant. Large-scale energy storage access to the power grid can assist the power system in peak shaving. Therefore, this paper establishes an energy storage peak shaving model considering carbon footprint cost and establishes a user-side carbon footprint cost model. On this basis, multi-objective optimization is carried out. A multi-objective optimization model of energy storage participating in power grid peak shaving considering carbon footprint is established. The optimization model aims at the optimal PS-VF (Peak Shaving and Valley Filling) effect and the optimal economy of the ESPS (Energy Storage Power Station). The net load variance is used as the evaluation index of the PS-VF effect of the ESPS. By normalizing the multi-objective function, the example analysis is carried out, and the results verify the effectiveness of the model.
Experimental investigation on a Fiber Carbon-nano Laminated heater to improve LiFePO4 battery performances under low-temperature conditions
Authors: Tang Chao , Yuan Peiyu , Cen Zhixiong , Yin Zhenghan , Yan Yang , Xie Zonghong
Published: August 2024

LiFePO4 batteries play a vital role in electric vehicles (EVs). However, LiFePO4 batteries are significantly affected by low temperatures. In this research, a lightweight, efficient, low-voltage, and safe Fiber Carbon-nano Laminated (FCL) heater for LiFePO4 batteries is designed, developed, and experimentally validated. Experiments are conducted to heat LiFePO4 batteries under -20°C and compared with traditional Positive Temperature Coefficient (PTC) heaters. The results demonstrate that the FCL heater exhibits stable heating performance with uniform temperature distribution within the heating area. Heating for 45 minutes can raise the temperature of a LiFePO4 battery module from -15°C to 0°C, consuming 128.2 Wꞏh, approximately 2.7% of the battery module’s capacity. Compared to traditional PTC heaters, the FCL heater shows significant advantages: a 65.6% reduction in supplied voltage, a 59% decrease in weight, a 21.4% increase in power, a 3.5% decrease in energy consumption, a 26.0% improvement in temperature rise efficiency, and a 195% increase in power-to-weight ratio.
Research on signal and energy forward transmission of wireless power transmission system Based on LCC-S compensation
Authors: Yang Yongjun , Xu Fei
Published: August 2024

To solve the problem of forward transmission of signal and energy in an LCC-S-compensated wireless power transmission system, a scheme for energy and signal sharing the same channel for transmission under constant power conditions was proposed, which controlled the working frequency of the inverter for forward signal transmission based on the method of electric energy frequency modulation. The principle of constant power transmission is to explore whether there are other frequency points to make the voltage gain the same as the load voltage gain of the system at the resonant frequency when the signal is a high level 1. The inverter working frequency is the resonant frequency when the signal is low level 0. The inverter resonates to meet the other frequencies of constant power transmission, and the signal characteristics are converted to the working frequency of the system to realize the transmission of signal and energy. In this paper, the circuit model of the LCC-S ICPT system is built and analyzed, the software MATLAB is used to simulate it, the frequency characteristics are successfully converted to the working frequency of the system under the condition of constant power transmission, and the feasibility of the scheme is verified theoretically.
Mechanism modeling and expert system design of radar cold plate cleaning process
Authors: Liu Liang , Qiu Zhi , Chai Yanhong , Li Yuan , Liu Lanbo
Published: August 2024

Regarding the problem of effective recommendation of parameter values for radar cold plate cleaning, firstly, a mechanism modeling is carried out based on the particle washing process in the cold plate flow channel. Then, a forward inference strategy is adopted to design a radar cold plate cleaning process expert system based on the mechanism modeling. The expert system consists of five main parts: knowledge base, database, inference machine, explanation part, and knowledge acquisition. Finally, a radar cold plate cleaning test was conducted to verify the effectiveness of the recommended parameters. The test results showed that the cleaning parameter values recommended by the expert system for the cold plate cleaning process designed in this paper can meet the cleanliness requirements of radar cold plate cleaning.
Weight evaluation of comprehensive evaluation of difficulty in mechanical structure design of toy products based on ANP
Authors: Guo Qiqi , Huang Huiyu , Shu Sheng
Published: August 2024

Human society is currently in the era of the knowledge economy, and quantitative measurement of the difficulty of product design provides a basis for enterprises to further implement rational resource allocation, which has important practical significance for enterprises.

Based on the actual situation of the enterprise, this study aims to gain a deep understanding of the development process of toy products and establish a comprehensive evaluation index system suitable for evaluating the difficulty coefficient of the mechanical structure design of toy products. The study determined the evaluation indicators that affect the difficulty of mechanical structure design in the product development process through investigation and analysis methods and used the network analysis method to determine the weights of relevant evaluation indicators. Finally, the design difficulty coefficient of toy products was obtained by weighting. ANP comprehensively considered various factors while considering the mutual influence between them, describing and calculating the relationship between each factor, and conducting a comprehensive ranking. Several examples were conveniently calculated by using Super Decisions software, and the results showed that the application of ANP to evaluate the difficulty of mechanical structure design for toy products is reasonable.
Performance testing of a novel angle comparator with inner and outer shafts
Authors: Xia Yangqiu , Tang Qiang , Li Mengyang , Chen Long , Li Qiang
Published: August 2024

The angle comparator is a key device for calibrating angle devices, and its performance seriously affects the accuracy of angle calibration. In order to achieve high-precision angle reproduction, a new type of inner and outer axis angle comparator was developed, its angle measurement performance was tested, and the diagonal position error was compensated. Firstly, the structure of an internal and external axis angle comparator based on dual drive of ultrasonic motor and torque motor is briefly introduced. Then, the external cross-calibration method for the full fillet position error of the angle comparator and the testing and evaluation method for motion resolution were studied. Finally, the angle measurement performance of the angle comparator was tested and compensated, and the measurement results were analyzed and verified. The experimental results show that the compensated internal and external axis angle comparator has an angular position error of 0.08”, a measurement uncertainty of 0.03” (k=2), and a motion resolution of 0.018”, indicating that the developed instrument has a stable high-precision calibration ability in the sub arc-second level.
Nanosecond laser processing of silicon carbide groove structure
Authors: Li Jian
Published: August 2024

Through orthogonal experiments, this work explores and improves the laser parameters that affect bottom surface roughness and groove depth in silicon carbide grooves produced by nanosecond pulse laser machining. According to the findings, a frequency of 20 kHz, scanning speed of 400 mm/s, laser power of 18 W, path interval of 0.02 mm, and depth of 411.139 μm may be achieved by creating a groove with a bottom surface roughness of 3.170 μm.
Improving the phosphating process for Ca-P coating on ZK21 biomedical magnesium alloy
Authors: Wang Ruochao , Liu Qing , Liu Hongtao
Published: August 2024

The optimization study of the phosphating process was conducted on the surface of ZK21 biomedical magnesium alloy using the chemical conversion technique to fabricate Ca-P coating. The findings reveal that the optimal concentrations of the three additives in the phosphating solution, Ca(CH3COO)2, C6H4O5NSNa, and Na2MoO4, are 12 g/L, 2 g/L, and 0.5 g/L, respectively. Under these specified conditions, the resulting Ca-P coating appears compact and uniform. An optimal quantity of Ca(CH3COO)2 can enhance the concentration of Ca2+ in the solution. C6H4O5NSNa accelerates the rate of membrane formation, whereas Na2MoO4 facilitates the creation of nucleation sites, consequently bolstering membrane formation even further. Analysis through EDS and XRD confirmed that the predominant compound in the Ca-P coating is CaPO3(OH)2·2H2O (DCPD).
Bioinspired deformation computational design method for muscle-driven soft robots using MPM
Authors: Yin Ying , Cheng Mo , Li Zhiwei , Guan Yisheng , Su Manjia
Published: August 2024

In order to adapt to complex and changing environments, animals have a wide variety of locomotor forms, which has inspired the investigation of their deformation and driving mechanisms. In this paper, we propose a computational design method for muscle-driven soft robots to satisfy desired deformations, aiming to mimic the deformation behavior of muscle-driven animals in nature. In this paper, we generate the ideal muscle-driven layout for the soft robot by inputting an initial shape and a desired shape, so that it can closely achieve the desired deformation. The material point method is utilized to simulate the soft medium so as to achieve the effect of coupling and coordinated deformation of arbitrary shapes. Our method efficiently searches for muscle layouts corresponding to various deformations and realizes the deformation behaviors of a variety of bio-inspired robots, including soft robots such as bionic snakes, frogs, and human faces. Experimental results show that for both the bionic snake and frog soft robots, the overlap of the geometric contour regions between the actual and simulated deformations is more than 90%, which validates the effectiveness of the method. In addition, the global muscle distributions of the bionic snake and human face soft robots during motion are generated and validated by effective simulation.
Observed trends in multiple breadbasket yield shocks
Authors: Chen Xuan , Anderson Weston , You Liangzhi , Pope Edward
Published: August 2024

Extreme climate events in breadbasket regions have become more frequent due to climate change, exposing crops to a greater frequency and intensity of abiotic stress. But by using observed crop yield statistics and an ensemble of statistical models, we demonstrate that over the last six decades the frequency of crop yield shocks in breadbasket regions has been decreasing due to both climate and non-climate factors. Here non-climate factors refer to interannual variability unrelated to abiotic stress, such as biotic stress and management decisions. We find that although the risk posed by extreme heat to crop yields has been increasing, this risk has been offset by changes to precipitation, extremely cold days, and average growing season temperature in many breadbaskets. As a result, total climate-related crop yield shocks have been decreasing for soybeans and wheat, while they have remained roughly constant for maize. Meanwhile, non-climate risks to crop yields have decreased in nearly every breadbasket region across crops. Because non-climate risks have decreased faster than climate risks, we find that the climate accounts for a greater proportion of crop yield shocks in the recent period (1991–2020) compared to an earlier period (1961–90). Our results indicate that extreme climate events are more important than ever to the relative stability of the food production system, even as the overall frequency of multiple breadbasket yield shocks decreases.
Physical and practical constraints on atmospheric methane removal technologies
Authors: Pennacchio Luisa , Mikkelsen Marie K , Krogsbøll Morten , van Herpen Maarten , Johnson Matthew S
Published: August 2024

Despite their apparent utility in mitigating climate change, technologies for removing methane from air are in early stages of development. Here we evaluate the limiting physical constraints, for three types of systems: two- and three-dimensional infrastructure and atmospheric oxidation enhancement, focusing on removing low (

x
CH4

<

1000 ppm) and ambient (

x
CH4

<

2 ppm) methane from air. With the space velocities and removal efficiencies of current three-dimensional technologies, volumes of 7–350 km3 are required to remove 1 Tg CH4 yr−1. Two-dimensional solutions are limited by the transport rate of methane to a surface. If every molecule of methane that collides with the surface is removed, an area of 1130 km2 is needed to remove 1 Tg CH4 yr−1 at ambient concentration. However, research shows that per-collision reaction probabilities are

<

10−8 requiring a surface area of 1010–1015 km2. Finally, we examine atmospheric oxidation enhancement, where 4.8 Tg yr−1 of Cl

⋅

or 8.8 Tg yr−1 of OH

⋅

is required to remove 1 Tg CH4 yr−1, with precursors such as H2O2 or O3. However, limitations arise concerning multiple environmental impacts. We conclude that the physical and practical constraints are considerable, and identify the main barriers that must be addressed.
The escape transition of a lattice star polymer grafted in a pore
Authors: Bradly C J , Janse van Rensburg E J
Published: August 2024

Polymers in confined spaces are compressed and have reduced conformational entropy, and will partially or fully escape from confinement if conditions are suitable. This is in particular the case for a polymer grafted in a pore. The escape of the polymer from the pore may be considered a partial translocation from the pore into bulk solution, and the resulting conformational readjustment of the polymer has characteristics of a thermodynamic phase transition. In this paper a lattice self-avoiding walk model of a star polymer grafted in a pore is examined numerically using the PERM algorithm. We show that the arms of the grafted lattice star escape one at a time as the length of the pore is reduced, consistent with earlier results in the literature. Critical points for the escape transitions are estimated for square and cubic lattice models and we also examine various properties of the model as it undergoes the escape transition.
Biological and physicochemical characterization of carbonated hydroxyapatite-honeycomb-polyethylene oxide bone scaffold fabricated using the freeze-drying method
Authors: Cahyati Nilam , Sari Mona , Yusuf Yusril
Published: August 2024

In this work, a carbonated hydroxyapatite/honeycomb/polyethylene oxide (CHA/HCB/PEO) scaffold was fabricated using the freeze-drying method. The CHA bioceramic component was synthesized from oyster shells using the precipitation method. HCB and PEO act as reinforcing materials that influence the physicochemical properties of the scaffold and as antibacterial agents on the scaffold. The CHA produced was B-type, confirmed by Fourier transform infrared (FTIR) and x-ray diffractometer (XRD) spectra of the CHA. FTIR analysis of the scaffold demonstrated the presence of functional group vibrations originating from PEO and HCB, affirming the successful application of the freeze-drying method, which preserved the polymer content within the scaffold during the evaporation process, thus facilitating pore formation. The XRD results show that a lower CHA concentration is associated with a smaller size of the scaffold crystallites, potentially inducing dislocations favorable for cellular proliferation. The porosity of the formed scaffold is in the ideal range of >60% with CHA concentration of 5 and 10 wt%. The size of the pores that formed on the scaffold was 3–69 μm, classifying them within the micropore category. The in vitro test results in the form of an antibacterial test revealed that the scaffold could inhibit S. aureus and E. coli bacteria. Notably, a scaffold consisting of 10 wt% of CHA had a larger zone of inhibition diameter, 10.083 ± 0.104 for S. aureus and 10.517 ± 0.247 mm for E. coli. The MTT assay and cell morphology MC3T3E1 results in the scaffold show that the CHA/HCB/PEO scaffold is non-cytotoxic and can facilitate cells to attach and proliferate. The cell viability of the scaffold was 96.23% at the concentration of 31.25 μg ml−1, and the IC50 value was at 16144 μg ml−1. Therefore, CHA/HCB/PEO composites can be an alternative material in scaffold fabrication for bone tissue engineering.
Trajectories of pain and their associations with long-term cognitive decline in older adults: evidence from two longitudinal cohorts
Authors: He Zijun , Li Gege , Chen Zhi , Hu Zihang , Wang Qingwei , Huang Guozhi , Luo Qinglu
Published: August 2024

Background

Pain is a dynamic experience that varies over time, but it remains unknown whether trajectories of pain are associated with subsequent cognitive decline. The purpose of this study was to identify distinct trajectories of pain presence and activity-limiting pain and investigate their longitudinal associations with the rate of subsequent cognitive decline in older adults.

Methods

A total of 5685 participants from the English Longitudinal Study of Ageing (ELSA) and 7619 participants from the Health and Retirement Study (HRS) were included. Pain presence trajectories were identified over eight years in the ELSA and 10 years in the HRS, while trajectories of activity-limiting pain were identified over 10 years in the HRS. We utilised linear mixed-effects models to investigate the long-term relationship between pain trajectories and the rate of cognitive decline across various domains, including memory, orientation, executive function and global cognition.

Results

Three pain presence trajectories were identified. Moderate-increasing and high-stable groups exhibited steeper declines in global cognition than the low-stable group. Furthermore, individuals in the moderate-increasing group experienced a more rapid decline in executive function, while the high-stable group showed a faster decline in orientation function. Two trajectories of activity-limiting pain were identified, with the moderate-increasing group experiencing a faster decline in orientation function and global cognition.

Conclusions

The trajectories of both pain presence and activity-limiting pain are linked to the rate of subsequent cognitive decline among older people. Interventions for specific pain trajectories might help to delay the decline rate of cognition in specific domains.
Synergistic effect of psoriasis and metabolic syndrome on risk of all-cause and cardiovascular mortality in US adults: a nationwide cohort study
Authors: Kong Xiufang , Wang Wei
Published: August 2024

Background

Metabolic syndrome (MetS) is a common comorbidity in psoriasis. However, the associations between MetS, psoriasis and mortality remain largely unclear.

Objectives

To investigate the synergistic effect of MetS and psoriasis on total and cardiovascular disease (CVD) mortality in a representative sample of US adults.

Methods

In total, 14 930 participants from the 2003–2006 and 2009–2014 National Health and Nutrition Examination Survey were included in this prospective, nationwide cohort study. Participants were stratified into the psoriasis−/MetS− (reference) group, psoriasis−/MetS+ group, psoriasis+/MetS− group and psoriasis+/MetS+ group.

Results

Overall, 14 930 participants, 50.71% were male, with a mean age of 43 years, were included in the final analysis. The weighted percentages of participants in the psoriasis−/MetS−, psoriasis−/MetS+, psoriasis+/MetS− and psoriasis+/MetS+ groups were 72.77%, 24.36%, 1.94% and 0.93%, respectively. In total, 874 deaths (246 of which were related to CVD) occurred during a median follow-up of 110 months. Compared with the reference group, the hazard ratios in the psoriasis−/MetS+, psoriasis+/MetS− and psoriasis+/MetS+ groups were 1.788 [95% confidence interval (CI) 1.486–2.152], 0.858 (95% CI 0.431–1.707) and 2.050 (95% CI 1.028–4.092), respectively, for all-cause mortality, and 1.856 (1.350–2.552), 1.229 (95% CI 0.292–5.181) and 4.571 (95% CI 1.724–12.119), respectively, for CVD mortality. Subgroup analysis showed that this association was not influenced by participants’ age, sex, physical activity, smoking, estimated glomerular filtration rate, or urinary albumin/creatinine ratio. Similar results were obtained in the sensitivity analysis of the main results.

Conclusions

Presence of comorbid MetS significantly increases all-cause and CVD mortality in patients with psoriasis. Dermatologists can potentially aid in reducing mortality rates in patients with psoriasis through targeted screening for MetS.
The Ethical Obligation to Treat Infectious Patients: A Systematic Review of Reasons
Authors: Grisel Braylee , Kaur Kavneet , Swain Sonal , Gorenshtein Laura , Chime Chinecherem , O’Callaghan Ellen , Vasireddy Avani , Moore Lauren , Shin Christina , Won Michelle , Ebangwese Santita , Tripoli Todd , Lumpkin Stephanie , Ginsberg Zachary , Cantrell Sarah , Freeman Jennifer , Agarwal Suresh , Haines Krista
Published: August 2024

During pandemics, healthcare providers struggle with balancing obligations to self, family, and patients. While HIV/AIDS seemed to settle this issue, coronavirus disease 2019 (COVID-19) rekindled debates regarding treatment refusal. We searched MEDLINE, Embase, CINAHL Complete, and Web of Science using terms including obligation, refusal, HIV/AIDS, COVID-19, and pandemics. After duplicate removal and dual, independent screening, we analyzed 156 articles for quality, ethical position, reasons, and concepts. Diseases in our sample included HIV/AIDS (72.2%), severe acute respiratory syndrome (SARS) (10.2%), COVID-19 (10.2%), Ebola (7.0%), and influenza (7.0%). Most articles (81.9%, n = 128) indicated an obligation to treat. COVID-19 had the highest number of papers indicating ethical acceptability of refusal (60%, P < .001), while HIV had the least (13.3%, P = .026). Several reason domains were significantly different during COVID-19, including unreasonable risks to self/family (26.7%, P < .001) and labor rights/workers' protection (40%, P < .001). A surge in ethics literature during COVID-19 has advocated for permissibility of treatment refusal. Balancing healthcare provision with workforce protection is crucial in effectively responding to a global pandemic.
Safety and Immunogenicity of an mRNA-1273 Booster in Children
Authors: Berthaud Vladimir , Creech C Buddy , Rostad Christina A , Carr Quito , de Leon Liberation , Dietrich Monika , Gupta Anil , Javita David , Nachman Sharon , Pinninti Swetha , Rathore Mobeen , Rodriguez Carina A , Luzuriaga Katherine , Towner William , Yeakey Anne , Brown Mollie , Zhao Xiaoping , Deng Weiping , Xu Wenqin , Zhou Honghong , Girard Bethany , Kelly Roxanne , Slobod Karen , Anderson Evan J , Das Rituparna , Miller Jacqueline , Schnyder Ghamloush Sabine
Published: August 2024

Background

A 2-dose mRNA-1273 primary series in children aged 6 months–5 years (25 µg) and 6–11 years (50 µg) had an acceptable safety profile and was immunogenic in the phase 2/3 KidCOVE study. We present data from KidCOVE participants who received an mRNA-1273 booster dose.

Methods

An mRNA-1273 booster dose (10 µg for children aged 6 months–5 years; 25 µg for children aged 6–11 years; age groups based on participant age at enrollment) was administered ≥6 months after primary series completion. The primary safety objective was the safety and reactogenicity of an mRNA-1273 booster dose. The primary immunogenicity objective was to infer efficacy of an mRNA-1273 booster dose by establishing noninferiority of neutralizing antibody (nAb) responses after a booster in children versus nAb responses observed after the mRNA-1273 primary series in young adults (18–25 years) from the pivotal efficacy study. Data were collected from March 2022 to June 2023.

Results

Overall, 153 (6 months–5 years) and 2519 (6–11 years) participants received an mRNA-1273 booster dose (median age at receipt of booster: 2 and 10 years, respectively). The booster dose safety profile was generally consistent with that of the primary series in children; no new safety concerns were identified. An mRNA-1273 booster dose elicited robust nAb responses against ancestral SARS-CoV-2 among children and met prespecified noninferiority success criteria versus responses observed after the primary series in young adults.

Conclusions

Safety and immunogenicity data support administration of an mRNA-1273 booster dose in children aged 6 months to 11 years.

Clinical Trials Registration

NCT04796896 (Clinicaltrials.gov).
Investigating Additive and Replacing Horizontal Gene Transfers Using Phylogenies and Whole Genomes
Authors: Kloub Lina , Gosselin Sophia , Graf Joerg , Gogarten Johann Peter , Bansal Mukul S
Published: August 2024

Horizontal gene transfer (HGT) is fundamental to microbial evolution and adaptation. When a gene is horizontally transferred, it may either add itself as a new gene to the recipient genome (possibly displacing nonhomologous genes) or replace an existing homologous gene. Currently, studies do not usually distinguish between “additive” and “replacing” HGTs, and their relative frequencies, integration mechanisms, and specific roles in microbial evolution are poorly understood. In this work, we develop a novel computational framework for large-scale classification of HGTs as either additive or replacing. Our framework leverages recently developed phylogenetic approaches for HGT detection and classifies HGTs inferred between terminal edges based on gene orderings along genomes and phylogenetic relationships between the microbial species under consideration. The resulting method, called DART, is highly customizable and scalable and can classify a large fraction of inferred HGTs with high confidence and statistical support. Our application of DART to a large dataset of thousands of gene families from 103 Aeromonas genomes provides insights into the relative frequencies, functional biases, and integration mechanisms of additive and replacing HGTs. Among other results, we find that (i) the relative frequency of additive HGT increases with increasing phylogenetic distance, (ii) replacing HGT dominates at shorter phylogenetic distances, (iii) additive and replacing HGTs have strikingly different functional profiles, (iv) homologous recombination in flanking regions of a novel gene may be a frequent integration mechanism for additive HGT, and (v) phages and mobile genetic elements likely play an important role in facilitating additive HGT.
Selection for Late Reproduction Leads to Loss of Complex I Mitochondrial Capacity and Associated Increased Longevity in Seed Beetles
Authors: Mast Heather E , Blier Pierre U , Ɖorđević Mirko , Savković Uroš , Holody Claudia D , Bourque Stephane L , Lemieux Hélène
Published: August 2024

Mitochondria play a key role in aging. Here, we measured integrated mitochondrial functions in experimentally evolved lines of the seed beetle Acanthoscelides obtectus that were selected for early (E) or late (L) reproduction for nearly 4 decades. The 2 lines have markedly different lifespans (8 days and 13 days in the E and L lines, respectively). The contribution of the NADH pathway to maximal flux was lower in the L compared to the E beetles at young stages, associated with increased control by complex I. In contrast, the contribution of the Succinate pathway was higher in the L than in the E line, whereas the Proline pathway showed no differences between the lines. Our data suggest that selection of age at reproduction leads to a modulation of complex I activity in mitochondria and that mitochondria are a functional link between evolutionary and mechanistic theories of aging.
The Composition of the Fecal and Mucosa-adherent Microbiota Varies Based on Age and Disease Activity in Ulcerative Colitis
Authors: Malham Mikkel , Vestergaard Marie V , Bataillon Thomas , Villesen Palle , Dempfle Astrid , Bang Corinna , Engsbro Anne Line , Jakobsen Christian , Franke Andre , Wewer Vibeke , Thingholm Louise B , Petersen Andreas M
Published: August 2024

Background

Pediatric-onset ulcerative colitis (pUC) represents a more aggressive disease phenotype compared with adult-onset UC. We hypothesized that this difference can, in part, be explained by the composition of the microbiota.

Methods

In a prospective, longitudinal study, we included pediatric (N = 30) and adult (N = 30) patients with newly or previously (>1 year) diagnosed UC. We analyzed the microbiota composition in the mucosa-adherent microbiota at baseline, using 16S rRNA gene sequencing, and the fecal microbiota at baseline and at 3-month intervals, using shotgun metagenomics.

Results

For fecal samples, the bacterial composition differed between pUC and aUC in newly diagnosed patients (β-diversity, Bray Curtis: R2 = 0.08, P = .02). In colon biopsies, microbial diversity was higher in aUC compared with pUC (α-diversity, Shannon: estimated difference 0.54, P = .006). In the mucosa-adherent microbiota, Alistipes finegoldii was negatively associated with disease activity in pUC while being positively associated in aUC (estimate: −0.255 and 0.098, P = .003 and P = .02 in pUC and aUC, respectively). Finally, we showed reduced stability of the fecal microbiota in pediatric patients, evidenced by a different composition of the fecal microbiota in newly and previously diagnosed pUC, a pattern not found in adults.

Conclusions

Our results indicate that pediatric UC patients have a more unstable fecal microbiota and a lower α diversity than adult patients and that the microbiota composition differs between aUC and pUC patients. These findings offer some explanation for the observed differences between pUC and aUC and indicate that individualized approaches are needed if microbiota modifications are to be used in the future treatment of UC.
Introduction: The rise of formal institutions in the Asia-Pacific region through competitive regime complexity
Authors: Suzuki Motoshi
Published: August 2024

The emergence of formal regional regimes characterized by precision and non-delegation signifies a major shift in the Asia-Pacific region. This special issue addresses the previously unexamined politics of institutional change towards formalization by analysing the policy realms of emergency liquidity provision, development aid, clean air, and labour immigration. To guide our research, this introductory article presents a conceptual framework that posits a novel argument: formalization is a result of competitive regime creation and flexible regime choice, fostering mutually beneficial regimes within a system of state sovereignty, and dispersed state capabilities lacking centralized coordinating authority. In such a context, multiple major states initiate regimes to secure order-setting privileges. Given the existence of multiple regimes, smaller states never commit themselves to a single regime; instead, they engage in forum shopping to select the regimes that best advance their preferences. Without third-party enforcement, these regimes are implementable only if they remain aligned with the evolving state preferences.
High-fiber diet reduces bone formation but does not affect bone microarchitecture in type 2 diabetes individuals
Authors: Faraj Malak , Leanza Giulia , Krug Johannes , Cannata Francesca , Viola Viola , Zampogna Biagio , Russo Fabrizio , Banfi Giuseppe , Lombardi Giovanni , Vadalà Gianluca , Mangiavini Laura , Papalia Rocco , Denaro Vincenzo , Busse Björn , Napoli Nicola
Published: August 2024

Bone fragility is a recognized complication of type 2 diabetes mellitus (T2DM), increasing patient morbidity. Thus, the development of an effective intervention to prevent diabetic bone fragility is urgently needed. As lifestyle intervention represents an effective option for diabetes management, it may have an impact on bone health. While studies have shown a beneficial effect of dietary fiber in T2DM management, its effect on bone health is still unclear. Thus, we investigated the impact of a high-fiber diet on bone and glucose control in men and women with T2DM. Forty-five T2DM patients (HbA1c: 6.5% ± 0.49%, age: 74 ± 7.29 yr) scheduled for hip arthroplasty were randomly assigned to follow a high-fiber diet (38 g/day) or to make no diet changes for 12 wk. Interestingly, BMI decreased by 4% (p <.0001) and HbA1c by 3.4% (p <.0001) in the high-fiber diet group, but did not decrease in the control group. However, serum concentration of the bone formation marker procollagen type 1 amino-terminal propeptide (P1NP) decreased by 8.6 % in the high-fiber diet group (p =.0004), whereas it remained unchanged in the control group. In contrast, similar to the control group, serum concentration of the bone resorption marker C-terminal telopeptide of type I collagen (CTX) concentrations did not change in the high-fiber diet group. Bone microCT analysis revealed no changes in trabecular and cortical bone parameters between the high-fiber diet and control groups. Similarly, real-time (RT)-PCR analysis in bone tissue showed no changes in the gene expression of Wnt pathway-related genes (Sost, Dkk-1, Wnt10b, and Lef-1), bone formation markers (Runx2, Col1a1, and Ocn), and inflammatory cytokines (IL-6, IL-8, TNF-α, and IL-10) between the two groups. Our findings suggest that 12-wk high-fiber diet intervention improves metabolic outcomes in patients with T2DM. However, it may reduce bone formation without affecting bone microarchitecture or Wnt pathway regulation.