bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Numerical and experimental investigation of the steam penetration in narrow channels during a dynamic steam sterilization cycle
Authors: Pletzer Simon , Miranda Marco , Magno Marino , Hochenauer Christoph
Published: September 2024

The most challenging aspect of steam sterilization is the removal of all non-condensable gases (NCGs) from the autoclave. These gases prevent the effective killing of microorganisms, impairing the sterility of medical devices. Special cycles are performed to ensure the penetration of steam, even into the deepest passages. To better understand this process, numerical models were developed to determine the spatial distribution of steam within the chamber, including its penetration into narrow channels. These are the first models that can be used to accurately determine the flow within three-dimensional cavities during a dynamic sterilization cycle. To validate the model, an experiment was designed using direct tunable diode laser absorption spectroscopy at a wavelength of 1364 nm to measure the mole fraction of steam present at the end of an aluminum pipe at a temporal resolution of 1 s. This represents a pioneering application of this technique in the field of steam sterilization. This setup was designed for installation on any autoclave. Both simulation and experimental data exhibit good agreement over the entire pressure range (0.18–3.15 bar). The most interesting observation made during the study was the increase in the steam content at the end of the tube while a vacuum was generated. The numerical results show that the mole fraction of H2O increased from 0.53 to 0.63 over the course of a single vacuum phase. This phenomenon was attributed to a stronger diffusion effect combined with small pressure gradients during low pressures. This finding inspired the idea of taking the diffusion effect more into account when designing sterilization cycles in the future to make them more sustainable and effective. The presented methodologies and models represent an excellent basis for conducting more complex investigations in the future, such as those investigating the influence of condensation effects on steam penetration in cavities.
Efficient prediction of mechanical properties of Boron Nitride Nanosheets using artificial neural networks
Authors: Kumari Nisha , Sarangi Saroj Kumar
Published: September 2024

This paper aims to evaluate the mechanical properties of Boron Nitride Nanosheets (BNNS) and their vital use in nano-electromechanical systems (NEMS). By employing molecular Dynamics (MD) simulation, modelling of the atomic structure was done. The mechanical response of BNNS under various parameters (strain rate, temperature, chirality and dimension) enabled the generation of a comprehensive data set that accurately represents their elastic properties. The dataset obtained from MD simulation was subsequently utilized to construct an artificial neural network (ANN) model, tailored to predict the Young’s modulus of BNNS accurately. This work aimed to improve the model’s efficiency by refining the design of ANN, which significantly reduces the computational time while maintaining higher accuracy predictions. The findings demonstrate precise and rapid prediction for developing components based on BNNS in NEMS. This paper establishes an analogy between in-depth atomistic simulations and real-world engineering applications presenting a new approach for precisely predicting the attributes of nanomaterials.
A color image encryption algorithm based on a novel 4D hyperchaotic system and bit-level diffusion
Authors: Liu Tongzhe , Chen Zhong , Long Bofeng , Wu Ximei , Wang Lujie , He Chenchen , Cao Can
Published: September 2024

As digital images are widely used in social media, medical, military and other fields, ensuring the privacy and security of image data has become a critical concern. Firstly, we propose a novel four-dimensional hyperchaotic system and validate that it exhibits a broad chaotic range, as demonstrated by bifurcation diagrams and Lyapunov exponent experiments. Additionally, simulated circuit diagrams verify the hardware feasibility of the proposed system. Secondly, we design a dynamic iterative scrambling (DIS) scheme that dynamically divides the image into multiple matrices for spatially indexed scrambling. Excellent substitution performance can be ensured by multiple iterations. In the diffusion stage, a multidirectional bit-level L-shaped (MDBL) scheme is proposed. Diffusion is conducted on the bit plane using a designed cross-multiplanar selection algorithm, which fuses the high and low bit planes, thereby enhancing the diffusion performance of MDBL. Thirdly, Based on the above concepts, a novel four-dimensional hyperchaotic system and an encryption algorithm based on bit-level diffusion are proposed. Finally, experimental results and security analyses demonstrate the effectiveness of the novel 4D hyperchaotic system and image encryption scheme. The proposed encryption scheme exhibits robust anti-interference capabilities and effectively safeguards image security.
Superconductivity in LaO: a density functional theory study with local, semilocal, and nonlocal exchange-correlation functionals
Authors: Rehman Habeeb-ur- , Shahbaz Muhammad , Afaq A
Published: September 2024

We studied the dynamical, electronic, and superconducting properties of LaO using a local (PZ), a semilocal (PBE), and three nonlocal correlation functionals (rVV10, vdW-DF2, and vdW-DF3) of the density-functional theory. We concluded that the nonlocal correlations have a marginal effect on the electronic band energies near the Fermi surface. However, the corresponding shifts in the density of states are relatively significant. In contrast, the phonon energies get modified by larger amounts, particularly for optical phonons. These variations in energies of optical phonons do not get reflected to the same degree in electron-phonon coupling constant, λ, from different functionals as their contribution in λ is minor that ranges from 21% to 33%. Moreover, the imperative role of Kohn anomalies and Fermi surface nesting for the electron-phonon coupling is reconfirmed. We also highlighted the role of the matrix elements that surpasses, in certain parts of the Brillouin Zone, all other factors including the Fermi surface nesting. The nonlocal correlation functional, vdW-DF2, gives significantly different results than other nonlocal as well as local/semilocal functionals due to excessive low energy phonons and larger phonon linewidth.
Edge-state-mediated RKKY coupling in graphene nanoflakes
Authors: Canbolat Ahmet Utku , Çakır Özgür
Published: September 2024

We investigate the long-range behavior and size dependence of the Ruderman-Kittel-Kasuya-Yosida (RKKY) interaction in hexagonal and triangular graphene nanoflakes with zigzag and armchair edges. We employ the tight-binding model with exact diagonalization to calculate the RKKY interaction as a function of the distance between magnetic impurities, nanoflake size, and edge geometry. Our findings demonstrate a strong dependency of the RKKY interaction on edge geometry and flake size, with notable changes in the RKKY interaction strength. We further analyze the influence of structural defects on the interaction strength of exchange interactions.
Theoretical and experimental study of a two-dimensional circular stealth acoustic lens
Authors: Gong Feilong , Li Qi , Sun Xiaomei , Kong Yue , Liu Song
Published: September 2024

The detection of underwater acoustic signals is a key focus in ocean development, and acoustic metamaterials play a crucial role in achieving this goal. Pentamode metamaterials exhibit fluid-like properties, allowing for the propagation of compressional waves without shear waves. In this study, a two-dimensional circular stealth acoustic lens based on pentamode metamaterials was proposed. By applying the transformation acoustics theory, the theoretical properties of circular stealth acoustic lenses were calculated, and they were verified with Finite Element Method (FEM). A practical model was designed with pentamode metamaterials and silicone oil, and its performance was verified with FEM software. A half-model was fabricated, and underwater experiments demonstrate that it does not effectively affect the propagation state of acoustic waves. The consistency between theoretical results and experimental findings highlights practical significance and broad application prospects for the circular stealth acoustic lens in the field of acoustic detection.
Comparative analysis of thermoelectric properties in bulk 2H and monolayer MoS2: a first-principles study at high temperatures
Authors: Kumar Rohit , Muralidharan Bhaskaran
Published: September 2024

The pursuit of high-efficiency heat-to-electricity conversion is one of the indispensable driving forces toward future renewable energy production. The two-dimensional (2D) transition metal dichalcogenide, such as molybdenum disulfide (MoS2), is at the forefront of research due to its outstanding heat propagation features and potential applications as a thermoelectric material. Using the first-principles density functional theory coupled with the semi-classical Boltzmann transport equation within the constant relaxation time approximation, we present the thermoelectric and energy transport in the bulk 2H and monolayer MoS2 material system. In order to advance the underlying physics, we calculate several crucial transport parameters such as electrical conductivity, electronic thermal conductivity, Seebeck coefficient, and power factor as a function of the reduced chemical potential for different doping types and temperatures, in addition to the electron energy dispersion relation of the material system. Our comprehensive study employs the Shankland interpolation algorithm and the rigid band approximation to attain a high degree of accuracy. This thorough investigation reveals the high Seebeck coefficient of 1534 and 1550 μ
V/K at 500 K for the bulk 2H and monolayer MoS2, respectively. Furthermore, the ultrahigh power factor values of 9.21 × 1011 and 3.69 × 1011
Wm
−1
K
−2
s
−1 are shown at 800 K in the bulk 2H and monolayer MoS2, respectively. Based on the power factor results, our in-depth analysis demonstrates that the bulk 2H MoS2, when compared to monolayer MoS2, exhibits great potential as a promising semiconducting thermoelectric material for advanced high-performance energy device applications.
Role of biquadratic exchange on thermodynamic quantities in anisotropic Heisenberg model
Authors: Korkmaz Nida , Mert Gülistan
Published: September 2024

The magnetic and thermodynamic properties of the spin-1 anisotropic Heisenberg system are studied within Oguchi approximation. The system contains both the bilinear and biquadratic exchange interactions between the nearest neighboring spins located on a centered honeycomb lattice. For the positive biquadratic exchange interaction parameters, the phase transition in the Heisenberg case is of both second and first order where there is a discontinuity in the thermodynamic properties at this transition temperature. For some negative biquadratic exchange interaction parameters, in both the Heisenberg and Ising cases, the ferromagnetic state changes in favor of the antiferromagnetic state. The frustrated antiferromagnetic structure created by the biquadratic exchange parameter with negative sign was shown significantly influence the magnetization, quadrupolar moment, internal energy, heat capacity, entropy and free energy of the system, where the system has an oscillating chaotic phase regime. A double peak behavior was observed in the specific heat, with one at the critical temperature and another at a low temperature.
Cosmography of the local Universe by multipole analysis of the expansion rate fluctuation field
Authors: Kalbouneh Basheer , Marinoni Christian , Maartens Roy
Published: September 2024

We establish a relationship between the multipoles of the expansion rate fluctuation field η, which capture in an accurate way deviations from isotropy in the redshift-distance relation, and the multipoles of the covariant cosmographic parameters—Hubble ℍ
o
, deceleration ℚ
o
, jerk 𝕁
o
, and curvature ℝ
o
. These parameters, derived from the third-order expansion of the luminosity distance with respect to redshift in a generic spacetime, provide model-independent insight into the geometry and symmetries of the cosmic line element without requiring the Cosmological Principle. Moreover, we demonstrate that although this approach is fully nonperturbative and does not rely on concepts such as peculiar velocities, it has the potential to constrain the motion of the matter frame at the observer's position relative to the cosmic microwave background.

We use two analytical axisymmetric models, motivated by observational evidence, to test the formalism and the effectiveness of the third-order expansion of the luminosity distance. These models also help to predict the precision with which future surveys, like the Zwicky Transient Facility, will constrain the covariant cosmographic parameters in the local (z < 0.1) Universe.
Covariant cosmography: the observer-dependence of the Hubble parameter
Authors: Maartens Roy , Santiago Jessica , Clarkson Chris , Kalbouneh Basheer , Marinoni Christian
Published: September 2024

The disagreement between low- and high-redshift measurements of the Hubble parameter is emerging as a serious challenge to the standard model of cosmology. We develop a covariant cosmographic analysis of the Hubble parameter in a general spacetime, which is fully model-independent and can thus be used as part of a robust assessment of the tension. Here our focus is not on the tension but on understanding the relation between the physical expansion rate and its measurement by observers — which is critical for model-independent measurements and tests. We define the physical Hubble parameter and its multipoles in a general spacetime and derive for the first time the covariant boost transformation of the multipoles measured by a heliocentric observer. The analysis is extended to the covariant deceleration parameter. Current cosmographic measurements of the expansion anisotropy contain discrepancies and disagreements, some of which may arise because the correct transformations for a moving observer are not applied. A heliocentric observer will detect a dipole, generated not only by a Doppler effect, but also by an aberration effect due to shear. In principle, the observer can measure both the intrinsic shear anisotropy and the velocity of the observer relative to the matter — without any knowledge of peculiar velocities, which are gauge dependent and do not arise in a covariant approach. The practical implementation of these results is investigated in a follow-up paper. We further show that the standard cosmographic relation between the Hubble parameter, the redshift and the luminosity distance (or magnitude) isnotinvariant under boosts and holds only in the matter frame. A moving observer who applies the standard cosmographic relation should correct the luminosity distance by a redshift factor — otherwise an incorrect dipole and a spurious octupole are predicted.
Numerical challenges in modeling gravothermal collapse in Self-Interacting Dark Matter halos
Authors: Palubski Igor , Slone Oren , Kaplinghat Manoj , Lisanti Mariangela , Jiang Fangzhou
Published: September 2024

When dark matter has a large cross section for self scattering, halos can undergo a process known as gravothermal core collapse, where the inner core rapidly increases in density and temperature.
To date, several methods have been used to implement Self-Interacting Dark Matter (SIDM) in N-body codes, but there has been no systematic study of these different methods or their accuracy in the core-collapse phase. In this paper, we compare three different numerical implementations of SIDM, including the standard methods from the GIZMO and Arepo codes, by simulating idealized dwarf halos undergoing significant dark matter self interactions (σ/m = 50 cm2/g).
When simulating these halos, we also vary the mass
resolution, time-stepping criteria, and gravitational force-softening scheme. The various SIDM methods lead to distinct differences in a halo's evolution during the core-collapse phase, as each results in spurious scattering rate differences and energy gains/losses.
The use of adaptive force softening for gravity can lead to numerical heating that artificially accelerates core collapse, while an insufficiently small simulation time step can cause core evolution to stall or completely reverse. Additionally, particle numbers must be large enough to ensure that the simulated halos are not sensitive to noise in the initial conditions. Even for the highest-resolution simulations tested in this study (106 particles per halo), we find that variations of order 10% in collapse time are still present.
The results of this work underscore the sensitivity of SIDM modeling on the choice of numerical implementation and motivate a careful study of how these results generalize to halos in a cosmological context.
Differences in the acoustic characteristics of DC bias alternating arcs in argon, helium, and nitrogen
Authors: Li 李 Yutai 雨泰 , Wen 文 Qinghao 清皓 , Fu 付 Yangyang 洋洋 , Zou 邹 Xiaobing 晓兵 , Li 黎 Handong 晗东 , Liu 刘 Zhigang 志刚 , Luo 罗 Haiyun 海云 , Qian 钱 Dun 盾 , Chen 陈 Zhe 喆 , Wang 王 Xinxin 新新
Published: September 2024

The acoustic effects of gas discharge plasma have received much attention. Previous studies have shown that cold plasma and thermal plasma have different principles of sound generation. In this paper, the differences in the acoustic characteristics of DC bias alternating arc plasma (thermal plasma) in different gas environments (argon, helium, and nitrogen) are investigated by combining experiments and simulations. Many processes in industrial machining involve this arc plasma. It was found that the acoustic characteristics of the arcs of these three gases are significantly different. The two key parameters, electrical and thermal conductivity of the gas, determine the acoustic characteristics of the arc by influencing the electric power of the arc and the heat dissipation through the anode. At the same drive current, the nitrogen arc has the largest voltage drop and the helium arc has the highest electroacoustic conversion efficiency. This results in the acoustic pressure amplitude being helium, nitrogen, and argon in descending order. The research contributes to a deeper understanding of the vocalization mechanism of arc plasma and provides theoretical guidance on gas selection for arc acoustic wave applications.
Screening A-site ordered quadruple perovskites for alkaline hydrogen evolution reaction via unifying electronic configuration descriptor
Authors: Sun 孙 Ning 宁 , Li 李 Wenbo 文博 , Qin 秦 Yang 杨 , Zheng 郑 Zhichuan 智钏 , Zhang 张 Bowen 博文 , Dong 董 Xiangjiang 祥江 , Wei 魏 Peng 鹏 , Zhang 张 Yixiao 艺潇 , He 何 Xian 贤 , Xie 谢 Xinyu 新煜 , Huang 黄 Kai 凯 , Wu 吴 Lailei 来磊 , Lei 雷 Ming 鸣 , Gou 缑 Huiyang 慧阳 , Yu 于 Runze 润泽
Published: September 2024

Dynamic adsorption processes of reaction intermediates for alkaline hydrogen evolution (HER) catalysts are still confusing to understand. Here, we report a series of A-site ordered quadruple perovskite ruthenium-based electrocatalysts ACu3Ru4O12 (A = Na, Ca, Nd, and La), with the target sample SrCu3Ru4O12 exhibiting a very low overpotential (46 mV @10 mA·cm−2) and excellent catalytic stability with little decays after 48-h durability test. Precise tuning A-site cations can change the average valence state of Cu and Ru, thus the plot of HER activity versus the average Ru valence number shows a volcano-type relationship. Density functional theory indicates that the Ru 4d orbitals of SrCu3Ru4O12 possesses the most suitable d-band center position among the five samples, which might be the key parameter to determine the catalytic performance. Our work provides further insight into the discovering advanced, efficient hydrogen evolution catalysts through designing precise descriptor.
The feasibility of the L-H transition for a purely electron-heated EU-DEMO tokamak
Authors: Suárez López G. , Tardini G. , Fable E. , Siccinio M. , Zohm H.
Published: September 2024

We study numerically the feasibility of achieving the L-H transition in the current EU-DEMO tokamak baseline using uniquely direct electron heating. The ASTRA code coupled to the TGLF turbulent transport model is used to predict steady-state kinetic plasma profiles for diverse numerical scans. Among them, we have varied the separatrix electron density, the total amount of ECRH power, the microwave beam deposition profile and the plasma impurity content. The solutions are then compared to L-H transition scaling laws to assess whether the found plasma state would enter into H-mode. We find the plasma density and impurity content to be the key variables setting the boundaries in parameter space where the L-H transition is feasible. When impurities can be controlled under a certain threshold, given here for a fully shaped DEMO plasma, the L-H transition is achieved in all the studied conditions.
Effects of divertor geometry on detachment and core plasma performance with impurity seeding in EAST
Authors: Meng L.Y. , Wang L. , Liu J.B. , Li K.D. , Lin X. , Liu X.J. , Jia G.Z. , Guo J. , He T. , Yu L. , Tang P.J. , Xu J.C. , Zhang W.M. , Zhang L. , Yang J.J. , Duan Y.M. , Zhong F.B. , Zhang T. , Wang M.R. , Lin Z.C. , Jia T.Q. , Zhang B. , Zang Q. , Yu Y.W. , Chen Z.X. , Xu G.S. , Wan B.N.
Published: September 2024

Divertor detachment operation compatible with the core plasma is an effective method to alleviate the steady-state heat flux approaching the divertor target; this scheme will be adopted by high-performance tokamaks in the future, such as International Thermonuclear Experimental Reactor (ITER). Currently, two ITER-like tungsten divertors with different geometries have been installed at the top and bottom of Experimental Advanced Superconducting Tokamak (EAST), providing conditions for the present study to investigate the effect of divertor geometry on the compatibility between detachment and core plasma. Recent H-mode experiments show that the electron temperature and heat flux of the outer target of the lower divertor decrease lower than those of the upper divertor after similar amounts of impurity are truly injected into the plasma. SOLPS simulations further prove that the closed lower divertor with a ‘corner slot’ structure is beneficial for trapping impurity and deuterium particles, thereby increasing momentum and energy losses. For the upper single-null discharges, the divertor electron temperature can be relatively reduced by increasing impurity seeding, but it is also easy to decrease the plasma stored energy and even lead to an H-L back transition. In addition, statistical data on discharges with impurity seeding show that the proportion of detachment discharges achieved by using the closed divertor is higher than that achieved by using the open divertor. The discharges with the closed divertor after detachment have less damage to the core plasma performance than those with the open divertor, irrespective of whether neon or argon seeding is employed. This research will support long-pulse detachment operation in EAST and provide a reference for other tokamaks in divertor design.
City identity in existing city future planning or development
Authors: Prommanop Thirak Phim Pha , Wahab Mohammad Hussaini , Amat Rohayah Che
Published: September 2024

As urbanization and modernization continue to shape Malaysia’s cities, balancing progress with preserving city identity is important. Unfortunately, many cities are neglecting their existing identity in urban planning, hindering the image-making and the function of the city. Despite some efforts being made, the focus remains on economic and functional spaces to cater to the growing population. This study seeks to create a framework for Malaysia’s cities that foster a renewed appreciation towards meaningful city characteristics and heritage preservation while encouraging sustainable urban practices. It draws on successful international examples and takes into account Malaysia’s unique historical and cultural background. The absence of specific legislation in Malaysia regarding urban development has pushed the government to draft The Urban Renewal Act, which aims to facilitate redevelopment and revitalization efforts. The government’s ‘MADANI’ policy aims to improve collaboration between policymakers and the public to ensure more humane policies are being implemented.

This paper provides a review of the relationship gap between the city identity and future city planning. The findings of portraying identity strategies in Malaysia’s existing structural plans and its recommendations that could help practitioners, legislators, and decision-makers involved in urban planning matters while ensuring the importance of preserving and enhancing city identity that aligns with Sustainable Development Goal 11 in creating sustainable cities and communities.
The study of the freeze-thaw resistance and carbonation resistance of manufactured sand-RAC based on fly ash and slag powder
Authors: Wei Xiong , Shanjun Zhang , Junjie Yi , Xiaoqing Wang
Published: September 2024

To advance the use of industrial solid waste and recycled concrete, this study explores the impact of fly ash and slag powder on the mechanical properties, freeze–thaw resistance, and carbonation resistance of manufactured sand recycled aggregate concrete (MRAC). Different FSMRAC (Fly Ash and Slag Powder MRAC) mixtures were prepared by varying the amounts of fly ash and slag powder. The results show that fly ash and slag powder enhance the splitting tensile strength of MRAC more than its compressive strength. when the contents of fly ash and slag powder are 0% and 30%, respectively, the FSMRAC attains maximum compressive strength of 48.6 MPa and splitting tensile strength of 3.8 MPa, representing increases of 2.96% and 5.6% in compressive and splitting tensile strengths, respectively, compared to MRAC. A total addition of 30% fly ash and slag powder effectively reduces the loss of mechanical properties under freeze–thaw conditions. When the fly ash-to-slag powder ratio (F:S) exceeds 1.5, it improves carbonation resistance and compressive strength; when the ratio is below 1.5, it enhances splitting tensile strength resistance to freeze–thaw cycles. Slag powder promotes hydration and improves mechanical properties, while fly ash densifies the concrete matrix and lowers the carbonation rate. Response Surface Methodology (RSM) analysis indicates that both materials improve MRAC’s properties. Higher fly ash content benefits compressive strength and carbonation resistance, while higher slag powder content improves splitting tensile strength.
Overcoming challenges: advancements in cutting techniques for high strength-toughness alloys in aero-engines
Authors: Zhao Biao , Wang Yufeng , Peng Jianhao , Wang Xin , Ding Wenfeng , Lei Xiaofei , Wu Bangfu , Zhang Minxiu , Xu Jiuhua , Zhang Liangchi , Das Raj
Published: September 2024

Aero-engines, the core of air travel, rely on advanced high strength-toughness alloys (THSAs) such as titanium alloys, nickel-based superalloys, intermetallics, and ultra-high strength steel. The precision of cutting techniques is crucial for the manufacture of key components, including blades, discs, shafts, and gears. However, machining THSAs pose significant challenges, including high cutting forces and temperatures, which lead to rapid tool wear, reduced efficiency, and compromised surface integrity. This review thoroughly explores the current landscape and future directions of cutting techniques for THSAs in aero-engines. It examines the principles, mechanisms, and benefits of energy-assisted cutting technologies like laser-assisted machining and cryogenic cooling. The review assesses various tool preparation methods, their effects on tool performance, and strategies for precise shape and surface integrity control. It also outlines intelligent monitoring technologies for machining process status, covering aspects such as tool wear, surface roughness, and chatter, contributing to intelligent manufacturing. Additionally, it highlights emerging trends and potential future developments, including multi-energy assisted cutting mechanisms, advanced cutting tools, and collaborative control of structure shape and surface integrity, alongside intelligent monitoring software and hardware. This review serves as a reference for achieving efficient and high-quality manufacturing of THSAs in aero-engines.
A robust approach for FOD detection on runway powered by image deblurring
Authors: Kumari Alka , Dixit Abhishek , Agrawal Pooja
Published: September 2024

Detecting Foreign Object Debris (FOD) on runways is crucial for ensuring flight safety and preventing accidents. However, this task becomes significantly more challenging in adverse weather conditions like rain, snow, and fog. This underscores the need for a robust object detection system capable of functioning effectively in blurred environments. In this study, we propose Deblur model, a dedicated convolutional neural network (CNN) model designed for deblurring tasks. Unique aspect of this study is integration of Deblur model with the You Only Look Once (YOLOv8) object detection architecture. Deblur model aims to enhance FOD detection on runways under blurred conditions. A notable divergence from conventional object detection algorithms that frequently falter in low-visibility situations. Deblur model substantially elevates the quality of input data fed into the YOLOv8 detector. This enhancement in input fidelity directly translates to superior detection accuracy and robustness. This integration is a novel method of addressing the two problems of object detection and deblurring in one framework. We evaluate the effectiveness of this integration through a comparative analysis on a blurred test dataset. The evaluation consists of two scenarios: direct application of the object detection model on the blurred dataset and utilization of the object detection model alongside the Deblur model. Significant improvements in performance metrics of the YOLOv8 object detection model are observed when combined with Deblur model. These enhancements include a 7% increase in recall, 7.7% boost in accuracy, 5.4% rise in mAP50, and a remarkable 11.6% improvement in mAP50-95. Real-time validation confirms the superior performance of our proposed technique compared to the YOLOv8 baseline model. To validate this, a drone equipped with a portable camera captures FOD on the runway, showcasing improved object recognition capabilities across varying levels of image clarity. The broad use of this integrated system goes beyond runway FOD detection. This method may be used to any application that needs accurate detection of objects in low-visibility circumstances, such marine navigation, autonomous driving in bad weather, and surveillance in foggy conditions. Enhancing picture clarity prior to implementing detecting algorithms greatly increase reliability and accuracy.
Design of reliable and fast Schmitt trigger 10T SRAM cells using in-memory computing
Authors: Rani Mucherla Usha , Reddy N Siva Sankara , B Rajendra Naik
Published: September 2024

Microprocessors, integrated data storage systems, and cache memories are just a few applications that can benefit from Static random access memory (SRAM). Computing In memory provides a solution for the von Neumann bottleneck problems. Simultaneously, it removes needless repeated data transmission between CPU and memory. Schmitt trigger was utilized for energy-efficient operation to get high reading and writing capacity. Two cross-coupled inverters with a transistor in between increase the design writing process. Furthermore, voltage boost logic is prioritized to maximize the node capacity. Using two dummy columns and dummy rows in RAM, the Replica technique controls the flow of signals via the core. The simulated results are compared to the designs that already exist. The simulation results show that the leakage power of the proposed design is 0.75 nw at 0.6 volts. The write static noise margin (WSNM) of the proposed cell is twice that of SEDF10T, which can be helpful for high-performance computing applications.
Solidarity and Responsibility
Authors: Sheldrake Philip
Published: September 2024

Solidarity is an important public virtue that follows naturally from the concept of community. Solidarity is closely associated with another public virtue, responsibility. Solidarity underlines that our commitment to other people should promote inclusive and equal communities. Solidarity is also related to promoting the “common good.” The “common good” suggests that human relations are not simply utilitarian. They profoundly challenge people with power and/or wealth. The “common good” originates in ancient philosophy but was taken up by theologians such as Augustine and by Catholic Social Teaching. Solidarity also plays a central role in political and liberation theology. The associated virtue of “responsibility” includes “service”—serving our fellow human beings and communities. Responsibility also links to the notion of “civic duty”—that is, engaging with public life in ways that uphold key social values.
Evaluating the impact of an automated drug retrieval cabinet and robotic dispensing system in a large hospital central pharmacy
Authors: Lin Alex C , Gamble Justin M , Gabriel Mina K , Hong Tzu-Yen
Published: September 2024

Purpose

To determine the impact of implementing 2 technologies in succession, the Carousel system and XR2 robot, in a hospital central pharmacy. The study examined the technologies’ impact on workload shifted from fully human-involved, labor-intensive filling from shelves to Carousel and/or XR2, prevention of filling errors, and efficiency.

Methods

Implementation occurred in 3 phases from August 2021 through October 2022. In phase I, medications were manually filled from the shelves for immediate doses and automated dispensing cabinet stock. RobotRx was used for unit-dose (UD) carts. In phase II, the Carousel system was introduced, while RobotRx was used for UD carts. In phase III, the XR2 robot was added and RobotRx was decommissioned. Epic data and time studies were utilized and analyzed with ANOVA.

Results

Over the 3 phases of implementation, workload shifted away from filling from the shelves, with 2,479, 1,044, and 864 orders filled from the shelves for phase I through phase III, respectively. The Carousel workload was 1,234 orders (phase II) and 348 orders (phase III). Nearly 71% of the workload was shifted to the XR2. The overall filling error (prevented) rate did not significantly change from phase I to phase II, remaining at 0.5%. In comparison, the error rate significantly decreased to 0.41% in phase III. Use of the Carousel system resulted in a significant reduction in filling errors compared to manual filling from the shelves. Use of the XR2 robot resulted in a filling error rate of 0%. The savings in time when using both Carousel and XR2 led to a decrease in full-time equivalents of 0.77 for pharmacists and 1.76 for pharmacy technicians.

Conclusion

Carousel and/or XR2 significantly shifted workload from manual filling to automated technologies, decreased filling errors, and improved efficiency, reducing pharmacist and technician workload. Time saved could allow staff to spend more time on patient-centric tasks.
Discussion on “LEAP: the latent exchangeability prior for borrowing information from historical data” by Ethan M. Alt, Xiuya Chang, Xun Jiang, Qing Liu, May Mo, H. Amy Xia, and Joseph G. Ibrahim
Authors: Thomas Shannon D , Kaizer Alexander M
Published: September 2024

This discussion provides commentary on the paper by Ethan M. Alt, Xiuya Chang, Xun Jiang, Qing Liu, May Mo, H. Amy Xia, and Joseph G. Ibrahim entitled “LEAP: the latent exchangeability prior for borrowing information from historical data”. The authors propose a novel method to bridge the incorporation of supplemental information into a study while also identifying potentially exchangeable subgroups to better facilitate information sharing. In this discussion, we highlight the potential relationship with other Bayesian model averaging approaches, such as multisource exchangeability modeling, and provide a brief numeric case study to illustrate how the concepts behind latent exchangeability prior may also improve the performance of existing methods. The results provided by Alt et al. are exciting, and we believe that the method represents a meaningful approach to more efficient information sharing.
Improved disease-specific survival in lentigo maligna treated with Mohs surgery over wide local excision: a retrospective cohort analysis
Authors: Taylor Mitchell A , Thomas Sierra I , Sharma Divya , Voss Vanessa B , Wysong Ashley
Published: September 2024

Lentigo maligna (LM), a subtype of melanoma in situ, typically occurs on sun-damaged skin of the head and neck in older men. Using the SEER database, the aim of this study was to compare disease-specific survival (DSS) outcomes between patients treated with wide local excision (WLE) and Mohs micrographic surgery (MMS), finding – on multivariable analysis – that MMS demonstrated improved 5- and 10-year DSS rates and a lower disease-specific mortality risk than WLE. Our findings highlight a potential DSS benefit of MMS for treating LM, although further research is required to confirm these findings and explore factors influencing treatment choices.
Leadership Through Language, Terminology and Representation: Conceptual and Tangible Steps Towards Epistemic Justice Practices
Authors: Devaney Carmel , Mc Gregor Caroline , Buckley Sarah Anne
Published: September 2024

This article is based on research about language, terminology and representation in relation to institutions in Ireland formerly known as ‘Mother and Baby Homes’. Learning from this research informs tangible and conceptual steps towards greater epistemic justice practices for social work. The concept of epistemic justice is used to explore how critical attention to language, terminology and testimony can contribute to promoting rights, countering stigma, recognising diversity and actively challenging misrepresentation, mis-framing and misrecognition. Based on a sample of research findings that demonstrate epistemic injustice, the main themes discussed are identity (motherhood, childhood), places (institutions) and processes (adoption). In the discussion, we draw from participant’s recommendations to outline how social work can provide enhanced leadership in relation to the use of language, terminology and representation and consider this in the context of current research relating to epistemic justice. Given the centrality of language, terminology and representation to social work, there is a significant opportunity within an international context to build on existing knowledge within the profession as well as amongst other professionals, organisations and wider society. To inform this improved ‘knowing and doing’, a number of conceptual and tangible steps to encourage epistemically just practices within social work are identified.
Metabolic network connectivity disturbances in Parkinson's disease: a novel imaging biomarker
Authors: Chen Bei , Chen Xiran , Peng Liling , Liu Shiqi , Tang Yongxiang , Gao Xin
Published: September 2024

The diagnosis of Parkinson’s Disease (PD) presents ongoing challenges. Advances in imaging techniques like 18F-fluorodeoxyglucose positron emission tomography (18F-FDG PET) have highlighted metabolic alterations in PD, yet the dynamic network interactions within the metabolic connectome remain elusive. To this end, we examined a dataset comprising 49 PD patients and 49 healthy controls. By employing a personalized metabolic connectome approach, we assessed both within- and between-network connectivities using Standard Uptake Value (SUV) and Jensen-Shannon Divergence Similarity Estimation (JSSE). A random forest algorithm was utilized to pinpoint key neuroimaging features differentiating PD from healthy states. Specifically, the results revealed heightened internetwork connectivity in PD, specifically within the somatomotor (SMN) and frontoparietal (FPN) networks, persisting after multiple comparison corrections (P < 0.05, Bonferroni adjusted for 10% and 20% sparsity). This altered connectivity effectively distinguished PD patients from healthy individuals. Notably, this study utilizes 18F-FDG PET imaging to map individual metabolic networks, revealing enhanced connectivity in the SMN and FPN among PD patients. This enhanced connectivity may serve as a promising imaging biomarker, offering a valuable asset for early PD detection.
Methylphenidate reduces spatial attentional bias by modulating fronto-striatal connectivity
Authors: Peled-Avron Leehe , Daood Maryana , Ben-Hayun Rachel , Nevat Michael , Aharon-Peretz Judith , Admon Roee , Tomer Rachel
Published: September 2024

Spatial attention bias reflects tendency to direct attention to specific side in space. This bias reflects asymmetric dopamine (DA) signaling in the striatum. Administration of DA agonists reduces spatial bias, yet the underlying mechanism is not yet clear. To address this, the current study tested whether methylphenidate (MPH; an indirect DA agonist) reduces orienting bias by modulating fronto-striatal connectivity. 54 adults with consistent bias completed the greyscales task which detects subtle biases during fMRI scanning under MPH (20 mg) or placebo, in a double-blind design. As hypothesized, MPH reduced bias by increasing orienting towards non-preferred hemispace, regardless of whether the initial bias was left or right. MPH-induced increases were found in activation of the medial superior frontal gyrus (mSFG: F[1;53] = 4.632, cluster-defining threshold of P < 0.05, minimal cluster size = 0, p_FWE = 0.036, η2 = 0.08) and its functional connectivity with the caudate (left caudate: F[1;53] = 12.664, p_FWE = 0.001, η2 = 0.192; right caudate: F[1;53] = 11.069, p_FWE = 0.002, η2 = 0.172), when orienting towards the non-preferred hemispace. MPH also reduced mSFG activation and fronto-striatal connectivity for the preferred hemispace. Results suggest modulation of frontal excitability due to increased caudate-mSFG functional connectivity. This mechanism may underlie the positive effect of dopaminergic agonists on abnormal patterns of directing attention in space.
Aβ remotely and locally facilitates Alzheimer’s disease tau spreading
Authors: Nabizadeh Fardin ,   Alzheimer’s Disease Neuroimaging Initiative, Nabizadeh Fardin
Published: September 2024

Alzheimer’s disease (AD) is characterized by the accumulation of amyloid-beta plaques initiated approximately 2 decades before the symptom onset followed by build-up and spreading of neurofibrillary tau aggregates. Although it has been suggested that the amyloid-beta amplifies tau spreading the observed spatial disparity called it into question. Yet, it is unclear how neocortical amyloid-beta remotely affects early pathological tau, triggering it to leave the early formation area, and how amyloid-beta facilitates tau aggregate spreading throughout cortical regions. I aimed to investigate how amyloid-beta can facilitate tau spreading through neuronal connections in the Alzheimer’s disease pathological process by combining functional magnetic resonance imaging normative connectomes and longitudinal in vivo molecular imaging data. In total, the imaging data of 317 participants, including 173 amyloid-beta-negative non-demented and 144 amyloid-beta -positive non-demented participants, have entered the study from Alzheimer’s Disease Neuroimaging Initiative. Furthermore, normative resting-state functional magnetic resonance imaging connectomes were used to model tau spreading through functional connections. It was observed that the amyloid-beta in regions with the highest deposition (amyloid-beta epicenter) is remotely associated with connectivity-based spreading of tau pathology. Moreover, amyloid-beta in regions that exhibit the highest tau pathology (tau epicenter) is associated with increased connectivity–based tau spreading to non-epicenter regions. The findings provide a further explanation for a long-standing question of how amyloid-beta can affect tau aggregate spreading through neuronal connections despite spatial incongruity. The results suggest that amyloid-beta pathology can remotely and locally facilitate connectivity-based spreading of tau aggregates.
The neural signature of an erroneous thought
Authors: Steinhauser Klara , Steinhauser Robert , Ernst Benjamin , Maier Martin E , Steinhauser Marco
Published: September 2024

The human brain detects errors in overt behavior fast and efficiently. However, little is known about how errors are monitored that emerge on a mental level. We investigate whether neural correlates of error monitoring can be found during inner speech and whether the involved neural processes differ between these non-motor responses and behavioral motor responses. Therefore, electroencephalographic data were collected while participants performed two versions of a decision task that only differed between these response modalities. Erroneous responses were identified based on participants’ metacognitive judgments. Correlates of error monitoring in event-related potentials were analyzed by applying residue iteration decomposition on stimulus-locked activity. Non-motor responses elicited the same cascade of early error-related negativity and late error positivity as motor responses. An analysis of oscillatory brain activity showed a similar theta response for both error types. A multivariate pattern classifier trained on theta from the motor condition could decode theta from the non-motor condition, demonstrating the similarity of both neural responses. These results show that errors in inner speech are monitored and detected utilizing the same neural processes as behavioral errors, suggesting that goal-directed cognition and behavior are supported by a generic error-monitoring system.
Stable individual differences from dynamic patterns of function: brain network flexibility predicts openness/intellect, intelligence, and psychoticism
Authors: Sassenberg Tyler A , Safron Adam , DeYoung Colin G
Published: September 2024

A growing understanding of the nature of brain function has led to increased interest in interpreting the properties of large-scale brain networks. Methodological advances in network neuroscience provide means to decompose these networks into smaller functional communities and measure how they reconfigure over time as an index of their dynamic and flexible properties. Recent evidence has identified associations between flexibility and a variety of traits pertaining to complex cognition including creativity and working memory. The present study used measures of dynamic resting-state functional connectivity in data from the Human Connectome Project (n = 994) to test associations with Openness/Intellect, general intelligence, and psychoticism, three traits that involve flexible cognition. Using a machine-learning cross-validation approach, we identified reliable associations of intelligence with cohesive flexibility of parcels in large communities across the cortex, of psychoticism with disjoint flexibility, and of Openness/Intellect with overall flexibility among parcels in smaller communities. These findings are reasonably consistent with previous theories of the neural correlates of these traits and help to expand on previous associations of behavior with dynamic functional connectivity, in the context of broad personality dimensions.