bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Recycling valuable materials from the spent lithium ion batteries to catalysts: methods, applications, and characterization
Authors: Sun Hao-Long , Xu Yun-Peng , Ding Lian , Gu Yu , Li Jian-Feng
Published: April 2024

As the prevailing technology for energy storage, the extensive adoption of lithium-ion batteries (LIBs) inevitably results in the accumulation of numerous spent batteries at the end of their lifecycle. From the standpoints of environmental protection and resource sustainability, recycling emerges as an essential strategy to effectively manage end-of-life LIBs and reclaim valuable elements within them. Hydrometallurgy, closely intertwined with catalysis, stands as a relatively mature strategy for achieving high-value utilization of spent LIBs. In this review, our emphasis is placed on the interconnected themes of catalysis within the realm of hydrometallurgical recycling. Specifically, we delve into the crucial role that catalysis plays in both the recycling process of LIBs and the sustainable utilization of their extracted materials in various catalytic applications. This focused exploration aims to contribute insights into the intricate relationship between catalysis and the broader context of LIB recycling, shedding light on its pivotal role in achieving both environmental sustainability and functional material repurposing. Moreover, we highlight advanced characterization techniques, represented by surface-sensitive enhanced Raman spectroscopy, to fundamentally understand the reaction mechanism of catalysts, which, in turn, would inform more rational catalyst designs.
SensAA – Design and Verification of a Cloud-based Wearable Biomechanical Data Acquisition System
Authors: David Jonas Paul , Schick David , Rapp Lorenz , Schick Johannes , Glaser Markus
Published: April 2024

Exoskeletons designed to assist patients with activities of daily living are becoming increasingly popular, but still are subject to research. In order to gather requirements for the design of such systems, long-term gait observation of the patients over the course of multiple days in an environment of daily living are required. In this paper a wearable all-in-one data acquisition system for collecting and storing biomechanical data in everyday life is proposed. The system is designed to be cost efficient and easy to use, using off-the-shelf components and a cloud server system for centralized data storage. The measurement accuracy of the system was verified, by measuring the angle of the human knee joint at walking speeds between 3 and 12 km/h in reference to an optical motion analysis system. The acquired data was uploaded to a cloud database via a smartphone application. Verification results showed that the proposed toolchain works as desired. The system reached an RMSE from 2.9° to 8°, which is below most of the comparable system. The system provides a powerful, scalable platform for collecting and processing biomechanical data, which can help to automize the generation of an extensive database for human kinematics.
Research on Single Event Burnout Reinforcement Structure of SiC MOSFET
Authors: Liao Qiulan , Liu Hongxia
Published: April 2024

In this paper, the single event burnout(SEB) and reinforcement structure of 1200V SiC MOSFET (SG-SBD-MOSFET) with split gate and schottky barrier diode(SBD) embedded were studied. The device structure was established using Sentaurus TCAD, and the transient current changes of single event effect(SEE), SEB threshold voltage, as well as the regularity of electricfield peak distribution transfer were studied when heavy ions were incident from different regions of the device. Based on SEE analysis of new structural device, two reinforcement structure designs for SEB resistance were studied, namely the expansion of P+body contact area and the design of multi-layer N-type interval buffer layer. Firstly, two reinforcement schemes for SEB were analyzed separately, and then comprehensive design and analysis were carried out. The results showed that the SEB threshold voltage of heavy ions incident from the N+source region was increased by 16% when using the P+body contact area extension alone; When the device is reinforced with multi-layer N-type interval buffer layer alone, the SEB threshold voltage increases by 29%; The comprehensive use of P+body contact area expansion and multi-layer N-type interval buffer layer reinforcement increased the SEB threshold voltage by 33%. Overall, the breakdown voltage of the reinforced device decreased from 1632.935V to 1403.135V, which can be seen as reducing the remaining redundant voltage to 19%. The device performance was not significantly affected.
A Comparative Study of PP-LiteSeg, Dual Attention Network, DeeplabV3p and Asymmetric Neural Network for Rooftop Detection in UAV Images
Authors: Hussain Zeenat Khadim , Congshir Jiang , Xin Yuan Xin , Mustafa Muhammad Raza e
Published: April 2024

Remote sensing technology is crucial for accurate rooftop detection, benefiting urban planning, disaster management, and solar resource estimation. This study employs Efficient Interactive Segmentation (EISEG) to enhance the efficiency of remote sensing image labeling, with a particular focus on rooftop detection. It is necessary to use modern technology because traditional manual labelling methods are labor-intensive and complicated. The study introduces a novel framework on deep learning semantic segmentation models, facilitating an efficient approach to rooftop identification using high-resolution UAV remote sensing datasets. Large dataset of labeled UAV rooftop building images, in which each superpixel region is assigned a binary label indicating rooftop presence. Advanced methods including Asymmetric Neural Network (ANN), Dual At-tention Network (DANet), PP-LiteSeg, and Deeplab3 are implemented for automatic rooftop detection due to their higher performance and advanced architectures. These models are executed on the Baidu deep learning platform PaddlePaddle, generating initial rooftop segmentation maps crucial for estimating photovoltaic resources. The ANN model emerges with the highest accuracy at 96%, followed by DANet at 95.09%, PP-LiteSeg at 94.54%, and Deeplab3 at 81.61%. The outcomes presenting efficient models for automated rooftop identification, and demonstrating the continuous need for improving deep learning techniques in smart and sustainable cities.
Exploitation of Bio Inspired Classifiers for Performance Enhancement in Liver Cirrhosis Detection from Ultrasonic Images
Authors: Rajaguru Harikumar , R. Karthikamani
Published: April 2024

In the current scenario, liver abnormalities are one of the most serious public health concerns. Cirrhosis of the liver is one of the foremost causes of demise from liver diseases. To accurately predict the status of liver cirrhosis, physicians frequently use automated computer-aided approaches. In this paper the clustering techniques like Fuzzy C Means (FCM), Possibilistic Fuzzy C Means (PFCM), Possibilistic C Means (PCM), Sample Entropy features are extracted from normal and cirrhotic liver ultrasonic Images. The extracted features are classified as normal and Cirrhosis one through Gaussian Mixture Model(GMM), Softmax Dis(SDC), Harmonic Search Algorithm (HSA), SVM(Linear), SVM(RBF), SVM(Polynomial), Artificial Algae Optimization (AAO) and hybrid classifier Artificial Algae Optimization (AAO) with Gaussian Mixture Mode (GMM). The classifiers performances are compared based on Accuracy, F1 Score, MCC, F Measure, Error rate and Jaccard metric (JM).The hybrid classifier AAO GMM with PFCM feature outperforms than other classifiers and attained an accuracy of 99.03 % with MCC of 0.90
Success Rate of Ultrasonic Retrieval for Separated Instruments with Different Lengths using Modified Staging Platform: A Comparative In-Vitro Study
Authors: Mohamed Basim Samir , Sabet Prof. Dr. Nihal Ezzat , Morsy Assoc. Prof. Dr. Dina Ahmed
Published: April 2024

The present study aims to evaluate the time and success rate of ultrasonic retrieval of separated instruments of 3, 5 and 7 millimeters lengths and resistance to vertical root fracture when modified staging versus conventional staging platforms techniques are used in moderately curved mesial roots of mandibular molars.

PICO:
P: Population
Mesiobuccal canals of moderately curved mesial roots of mature mandibular molars with separated instruments.
I: Intervention
I1: Ultrasonic retrieval of 5mm separated instrument by conventional staging platform.
I2: Ultrasonic retrieval of 7mm separated instrument by conventional staging platform.
I3: Ultrasonic retrieval of 3mm separated instrument by modified staging platform.
I4: Ultrasonic retrieval of 5mm separated instrument by modified staging platform.
I5: Ultrasonic retrieval of 7mm separated instrument by modified staging platform.
C: Control
C: Ultrasonic retrieval of 3mm separated instrument by conventional staging platform.
O: Outcome
• O1: Retrieval time.
• O2: Retrieval success rate.
• O3: Vertical fracture resistance.
Assessment of macro, trace and toxic element intake from rice: differences between cultivars, pigmented and non-pigmented rice
Authors: Liu Xingyong , Li Qian , Yan Hongmei , Wang Yunmei
Published: April 2024

Pigmented and non-pigmented rice varieties (grown in different areas) were collected in China, Yunnan, to investigate the content of macro-, trace elements and potentially toxic elements (PTEs), and to assess the health risk associated with dietary intake. The order of elemental concentrations in rice was Mn > Zn > Fe > Cu > Se for trace elements, P > K > Mg > Ca > Na for macro elements, and Cr > As > Cd for PTEs. Rice with a high concentration of essential elements also associated with a high content of PTEs. In addition, higher content of Cr, Mn and Na were found in pigmented rice. The health risk assessment showed that the daily intake of all elements was below the tolerable limit (UL). Moreover the intake of Fe, Zn and Se was far from sufficient for the nutrient requirement. The PTEs in rice dominated the health risk. Of concern is that this rice consumption is likely to contribute to carcinogenic risks in the long term and that adults are at higher health risk from pigmented rice compared to non-pigmented rice. This study confirms that the lack of essential micronutrients in rice and the health risk associated with rice diets should remain a concern.
Assessment of tranquility and soundscapes in urban open green spaces, case study: Shiraz, Iran
Authors: Hassani Maryam , Rakhshandehroo Mehdi
Published: April 2024

This study investigates tranquility and soundscapes in urban green spaces, focusing on Azadi Park and Eram Garden. Comments from visitors underscore the diverse motivations for park use and the resulting effects. Six domains of visit motivations were identified: physical, relaxation, socializing, enjoyment, social goals, and escaping the city. Participants reported physical effects like relaxation, positive emotions, and attachment to the place. The correlation analysis reveals that tranquility is linked not only to naturalness and remoteness but also emotional reactions like pleasantness, calmness, and control. Comparative analysis of tranquility rates in different park locations, particularly near the street and the middle of the park, indicates higher tranquility in the latter. Despite being centrally located, both parks achieved 'good' to 'excellent' average tranquility ratings. The study emphasizes the importance of considering the entire visual composition of a scene for its perceived quality. Insights into soundscapes highlight the need for creating spaces dominated by natural sounds and reducing man-made sounds, especially traffic noise. The study establishes a close association between perceived tranquility and visitors reporting increased relaxation, with higher tranquility ratings correlating with a higher percentage of visitors feeling relaxed. Overall, the findings contribute to understanding the complex interplay of environmental factors in shaping perceptions of tranquility and underscore the potential benefits of urban green spaces as restorative environments.
Aircraft Taxiing Path Planning Based on Improved SARSA Algorithm
Authors: Zhang Yunjing , Wang Hao , Wang Shuai , Meng Bin
Published: April 2024

Aircraft taxiing constitutes a pivotal component of airport operations, and curtailing taxiing duration is a primary strategy for enhancing airport operational efficiency. To actualize efficient airport operations and alter the current state of relying solely on manual apron control, this study, given the unique environment of aircraft taxiing, employs the improved SARSA algorithm to plan the taxiing path of aircraft. Through simulation, it is verified that this algorithm surpasses the traditional SARSA algorithm in terms of path length planning and iteration times, thereby providing controllers with superior decision-making assistance and reference, and efficiently planning a shorter path.
Stimulatory effect of Phyllanthus amarus extract on the growth performance, hemato-biochemical activity, antioxidative status and immune response of African catfish, Clarias gariepinus
Authors: Adeniyi Olarinke Victoria , Alade Adijat Omowunmi , Tijani Gafar Hammed
Published: April 2024

This study investigated the antibacterial activity of Phyllanthus amarus extracts and influence of best extract on the growth; physiological and immune status of Clarias gariepinus fingerlings. The fish were fed diets containing 0.0 (control), 0.5, 1.0, 1.5 or 2.0 g P. amarus methanol extract (PAE) / kg basal diet to apparent satiation for 84 days. Thereafter, blood samples were collected from the fish and used for hematological and biochemical analyses. After the 84 days of feeding, the fish were challenged with Aeromonas hydrophila by intraperitoneal injection; and observed for survival, after which immune response parameters were measured. The data obtained were analyzed using one-way analysis of variance at P < 0.05. The results showed significant antibacterial activity of P. amarus methanol extract against A. hydrophila, and its application at 0.5–1.5 g PAE significantly promoted weight gain and specific growth rate, with the highest at 1.0 g. Moreover, compared with that of the control group, the feed conversion ratios of the fishes fed PAE diets significantly decreased. Hematocrit, hemoglobin and lymphocytes were enhanced at 0.5–1.5 g PAE. All the fishes fed PAE-based diets had lower concentrations of serum liver enzymes; the lowest concentration was detected in fish fed 1.0–1.5 g PAE; while the values of creatinine, glucose and total bilirubin did not differ among the treatments. Glutathione peroxidase and glutathione-S‐transferase activities increased in all PAE-fortified treatments. Lysozyme, phagocytic and respiratory burst activities also increased in the challenged fish fed PAE diets. Post-challenge survival was highest in the 1.0 g PAE treatment. Therefore, the inclusion of 1.0 g Phyllanthus amarus extract is recommended as a dietary supplement for Clarias gariepinus.
Identification of Precipitation Thresholds for Flooding in Basins With Scarce Data: Case Study for José Pereira River, Itajubá/MG
Authors: Barboza Gabriela dos Santos , Silva Benedito Cláudio da
Published: April 2024

Extreme events, such as flash floods, have increased globally, causing significant damage. In Brazil, this concern is worsened by climate change, with characteristics such as La Niña in 2022 and El Niño until 2024. Hydrological modeling with geoprocessing is crucial for risk management, requiring precise knowledge about limits on rainfall quantity and duration. This study aims to establish duration limits that trigger floods in the José Pereira river basin, a very representative small river basin in most cities of Brazil. The process begins with the characterization of the basin, considering climate, flood history, topography, soils, land use and subdivision into sub-basins. Parameters such as curve coefficient (CN), concentration time and lag time are calculated for each sub-basin. After characterization, we selected two flood events between 2022 and 2023 to calibrate the HEC-HMS model, using level and specialization data. Adjusted basin data for greater realism. We chose simulated events based on maximum rainfall and return time, using records from the 2013 to 2023 historical series rainfall station, decreasing 40 mm in 24 hours. These events showed technical and distributed rainfall, highlighting the influence of upstream basins on the variation in river levels during flood events. A detailed analysis revealed that the significant occurrence occurs between the first 25% and 50% of the total duration of rainfall caused by overflows or floods. From the simulations, we identified the minimum accumulation of rain necessary to exceed 1.5m in the river. The threshold curve highlighted that, upon reaching 34.60 mm of accumulation, it is crucial to issue an alert, as exceeding this value and the curve, the river is susceptible to overflowing at any time.
Neoadjuvant docetaxel plus cisplatin versus docetaxel plus doxorubicin and cyclophosphamide in early-stage triple-negative breast cancer (HELEN-001): results from a multicenter, randomized controlled, open-label phase II trial
Authors: Liu Zhenzhen , Jiao Dechuang , Qiao Jianghua , Wang Chengzheng , Sun Xianfu , Lu Zhenduo , Zhang Chongjian , Li Lianfang , Yan Min , Feng Yueqing , Zhou Yong , Deng Miao , Liu Xinlan , Ma Mingde , Jia Haiquan , Xia Qingxin , Lim Geok Hoon , Ishii Naohiro , Orlandi Armando , Hernanz Fernando , Chen Xiuchun
Published: April 2024

Background
Adding platinum to anthracycline- and taxane-based neoadjuvant chemotherapy has improved pathological complete response (pCR) and event-free survival(EFS) in patients with triple-negative breast cancer (TNBC). However, the efficacy for TNBC of combining taxane and platinum without anthracycline remains controversial.
Methods
The HELEN-001 trial was a randomized, phase 2 controlled, and open-label investigation carried out in China at 6 hospitals. Participants who were aged 18–70 years old, were histologically confirmed for TNBC clinical stage II–III, suitable for potentially curative surgery, and had an Eastern Cooperative Oncology Group performance status (ECOG-PS) of 0 or 1 were selected for this trial. Participants were randomized into two equal groups; those who received docetaxel plus cisplatin (75 mg/m2, respectively) and those who received docetaxel plus doxorubicin and cyclophosphamide (docetaxel 75 mg/m2, doxorubicin 50 mg/m2, and cyclophosphamide 500 mg/m2). These regimens were given every 3 weeks for 6 cycles. Randomization was stratified by tumor size and nodal status. The primary endpoint was the number of individuals achieving a pCR (ypT0/isN0). The trial was registered with chictr.org (number ChiCTR-1800019501).
Findings:
Between November, 2018, and June, 2022, 212 patients were selected (n = 106/treatment arm). The number of individuals who achieved pCR after docetaxel plus cisplatin treatment was 51.9%, and that of those who attained pCR after docetaxel plus doxorubicin and cyclophosphamide was 35.8% (P = 0.019). After median follow-up of 29 months[interquartile range (IQR), 21 to 41], 14 of 106 patients (13.2%) in the docetaxel plus cisplatin group and 18 of 106 patients (17.0%) in the docetaxel plus doxorubicin and cyclophosphamide group had event-free survival (EFS) events [95% confidence interval (CI) = 0.377 to 1.526, hazard ratio (HR) = 0.759, P = 0.492]. The incidence of grade 3 or 4 events was similar in both groups [57 (54%) vs. 51 (48%)]. No treatment-associated deaths were identified in both groups.
Interpretation:
In stage II to III TNBC, the docetaxel plus cisplatin regimen achieved higher pCR rates than docetaxel plus doxorubicin and cyclophosphamide, with a comparable toxicity profile. Consistent with literature, the taxane plus cisplatin regimen demonstrated a favorable risk-to-benefit profile and could serve as an optimal neoadjuvant chemotherapy option for patients with high-risk TNBC.
Production of Hepatocytes Derived from Chicken Embryos Across Three Developmental Stages
Authors: farzaneh maryam , Azizidoost Shirin
Published: April 2024

Background: Chicken hepatocytes provide a valuable resource for conducting cell-based assays and gaining insights into the underlying mechanisms of diseases.
Objective: In this study, we examined in vitro generation of chicken hepatocytes from three developmental stages.
Methods: In this in vitro study, chicken embryos aged 5, 7, and 10 days were used. The proliferation of chicken hepatocytes was assessed in DMEM/F12+10% FBS medium. After 3 days, the proliferation rate of hepatocytes, hepatocytes-specific gene expression, hepatocytes-specific enzymes (ALT and AST), albumin production and urea secretion were assessed.
Findings: Morphological examination of individual hepatocytes exhibited a characteristic hexagonal structure with prominent nuclei and nucleoli, surrounded by a marginal cytoplasm. E10 embryos exhibiting a markedly higher proliferation rate in comparison to those from E5 and E7 stages. In contrast to E10, approximately 50% of hepatocytes derived from E5 and E7 embryos exhibit reduced proliferation after 3 days. In the suspension culture, hepatocytes had the ability to form spheroids or hepatospheres. The expression of hepatocyte-specific genes such as AFP, ALP, FOXA2, and CYP3A4 was markedly higher in E10-derived hepatocytes compared to E5-derived hepatocytes. Conversely, the expression of CXCR4, OCT4, NANOG, and SOX17 was significantly lower in E10-derived hepatocytes than in E5-derived hepatocytes. There was a significant increase in the expression of ALT and AST in E10-derived hepatocytes compared to E5-derived hepatocytes. Furthermore, Albumin production was significantly lower in E10-derived hepatocytes compared to E5-derived hepatocytes. While, urea secretion was higher in E10-derived hepatocytes compared to E5-derived hepatocytes
Conclusion: Based on our findings, we have determined that E10 represents an optimal stage for the derivation and proliferation of chicken hepatocytes in vitro.
Simulation of Frost Heave Failure of Air-entrained Concrete Based on Fracture Phase Field Method
Authors: Wang Xinmiao , Gu Xin , Xia Xiaozhou , Xue Feng , Zhang Qing
Published: April 2024

The internal pore structure characteristics and microbubble distribution features of concrete have a significant impact on its frost resistance, but their size is relatively small compared to aggregates, making it difficult to visually present in the mesoscopic numerical model of concrete. Therefore, based on the physical mechanism of ice crystal phase transition in pore water and the specific surface friction mechanism of porous seepage, this paper establishes an estimation model for effective thermal conductivity and permeability coefficients that can reflect the distribution characteristics of internal pore size and the content of microbubbles in porous media, and explores the evolution mechanism of effective thermal conductivity and permeability coefficients with the freezing process. In addition, a switching model for permeability coefficient is proposed to address the fundamental impact of frost cracking on permeability. Finally, the proposed estimation models for thermal conductivity and permeability are assigned to the cement mortar and interface transition zone (ITZ), and a thermal-hydraulic-mechanical coupling finite element model of concrete specimens at mesoscale based on the fracture phase field method is established. After that, the frost cracking mechanism in ordinary concrete samples during the freezing process is explored, as well as the relief mechanism of microbubbles on pore pressure and the deterioration effect of accelerated cooling on frost cracking. The results show that the cracks first occurred near the aggregate on the concrete sample surface, and then extended inward along the interface transition zone, which is consistent with the frost cracking scenario of concrete structures in cold regions.
A novel aerosol collection method shows the cough aeromicrobiome of people with tuberculosis is phylogenetically distinct from respiratory tract specimens
Authors: Chiyaka Tinaye L. , Nyawo Georgina R. , Naidoo Charissa , Moodley Suventha , Clemente Jose C. , Malherbe Stephanus T. , Warren Robin , Ku David , Segal Leopoldo N. , Theron Grant
Published: April 2024

Background: Tuberculosis (TB), a major cause of disease and antimicrobial resistance, is spread via aerosols. Aerosols have diagnostic potential and airborne-microbes other than Mycobacterium tuberculosis complex (MTBC) may influence transmission. We evaluated whether PneumoniaCheck (PMC), a commercial aerosol collection device, captures MTBC and the aeromicrobiome of people with TB.
Methods: PMC was done in sputum culture-positive people (≥30 forced coughs each, n=16) pre-treatment and PMC air reservoir (bag, corresponding to upper airways) and filter (lower airways) washes underwent Xpert MTB/RIF Ultra (Ultra) and 16S rRNA gene sequencing (sequencing also done on sputum). In a subset (n=6), PMC microbiota (bag, filter) was compared to oral washes and bronchoalveolar lavage fluid (BALF).
Findings: 54% (7/13) bags and 46% (6/14) filters were Ultra-positive. Sequencing read counts and microbial diversity did not differ across bags, filters, and sputum. However, microbial composition in bags (Sphingobium-, Corynebacterium-, Novosphingobium-enriched) and filters (Mycobacterium-, Sphingobium-, Corynebacterium-enriched) each differed vs. sputum. Furthermore, sequencing only detected Mycobacterium in bags and filters but not sputum. In the subset, bag and filter microbial diversity did not differ vs. oral washes or BALF but microbial composition differed. Bags vs. BALF were Sphingobium-enriched and Mycobacterium-, Streptococcus-, and Anaerosinus-depleted (Anaerosinus also depleted in filters vs. BALF). Compared to BALF, none of the aerosol-enriched taxa were enriched in oral washes or sputum.
Interpretation: PMC captures aerosols with Ultra-detectable MTBC and MTBC is more detectable in aerosols than sputum by sequencing. The aeromicrobiome is distinct from sputum, oral washes and BALF and contains differentially-enriched lower respiratory tract microbes.
Habitat selection and foraging segregation between two geographically proximate tropical seabird colonies
Authors: Trevail Alice , Vallocchia Sonia , Nicoll Malcolm A. C. , Carr Peter , Votier Stephen C. , Wood Hannah , Freeman Robin
Published: April 2024

Effective seabird conservation requires understanding their marine spatial ecology. Tracking can reveal details of their foraging ecology and habitat use, as well as the suitability of marine protected areas for at-sea conservation, but results are often regionally specific. Here we characterised foraging behaviour of tropical breeding brown boobies Sula leucogaster from two colonies in the Chagos Archipelago, Western Indian Ocean, and test habitat requirements. GPS tracking of thirteen individuals from two colonies, located 142 km apart on the same atoll (Great Chagos Bank), showed similar foraging effort and habitat preferences between colonies, despite differences in season and breeding stage. Brown boobies from both tracked populations foraged close to the colony along the atoll shelf edge, avoiding deep oceanic areas and shallow waters of the Great Chagos Bank atoll, but within the Chagos Archipelago Marine Protected Area. Sea-level height anomaly and sea surface temperature were important foraging predictors at both sites, although birds experienced distinct environmental conditions between colonies. These results suggest that while brown boobies have colony-specific at-sea foraging areas, similarities in habitat drivers of distribution and foraging behaviour can inform predictions of distributions at other colonies within the archipelago, with important benefits for at-sea conservation efforts.
The Impact of Green Spaces on Thermal Comfort in Urban Street Canyons during Hot Summer Days and Nights
Authors: Liu Junyou , Zheng Bohong , Tang Haifang , Fan Jia
Published: April 2024

Road greening plays an important role in improving the thermal comfort of street canyons. Optimizing the landscape pattern of road green spaces is undoubtedly beneficial for better utilizing the effect of green spaces in improving thermal comfort in limite street greening area. Given that road greening can have completely different impacts on the thermal comfort of street canyons during the day and at night, this study attempts to explore how to optimize the landscape pattern of road greening to maximize its overall improvement in thermal comfort throughout the summer. This study takes a section of Guihua Road in Changsha, a city in central and southern China as an example, built a model based on the actural situation of the road, and based on this, constructs five optimization models to explore the effectiveness on improving thermal comfort. Research has found that optimizing the landscape pattern of road green spaces has a more significant effect on the daytime thermal comfort of street canyons, with the maximum difference in UTCI between models being 0.76 ℃. However, the maximum difference in UTCI between nighttime models is only 0.06 ℃. Therefore, fully utilizing the effect of plants can be effective to improve daytime thermal comfort of the street canyon. However, for the improvement of the nighttime thermal comfort of the street canyon, peolple should focus more on other measures like improving the ventilation and change the underlying surface materials.
Research on Magnetorheological Ultra Precision Processing Technology and Key Technologies for Semiconductor Wafers
Authors: Li Junye , Tang Jiaxu , Zhang Jun , Li Xiao , Li Bin , Meng Qingxin , Jiang Ping , Zhu Jinbao
Published: April 2024

As a key process in the manufacturing of integrated circuit chips, the quality and effectiveness of wafer cutting directly affect the performance of the chip. Magnetorheological machining is a flexible machining technique that changes the rheological properties of polishing fluid through internal gradient electromagnetic fields, thereby achieving material removal and surface error correction. This article focuses on magnetorheological machining technology and conducts simulation and experimental research on wafers. By simulating the mechanical properties of the wafer surface under different polishing disc speeds, excitation gaps and particle sizes, the simulation obtained the optimal processing parameters through experiments and data analysis, and finally obtained a smooth wafer surface with a surface roughness of Ra 0.042 µm.
The use of the Surgical Pleth Index to guide anaesthesia in gastroenterological surgery: a randomised controlled study
Authors: Bergman Tommi , Kalliomäki Maija-Liisa , Harju Jarkko , Särkelä Mika
Published: April 2024

Background
The measurement of nociception and the optimisation of intraoperative antinociceptive medication could potentially improve the conduct of anaesthesia, especially in the older population. The Surgical Pleth Index (SPI) is one of the monitoring methods presently used for the detection of nociceptive stimulus.
Methods
Eighty patients aged 50 years and older who were scheduled to undergo major abdominal surgery were randomised and divided into a study group and a control group. In the study group, the SPI was used to guide the administration of remifentanil during surgery. In the control group, the SPI value was concealed, and remifentanil administration was based on the clinical evaluation of the attending anaesthesiologist. The primary endpoint of this study was intraoperative remifentanil consumption. In addition, we compared the durations of intraoperative hypotension and hypertension.
Results
No difference in intraoperative remifentanil consumption (4.5 μg kg-1h-1 vs 5.6 μg kg-1h-1, p=0.14) was found. Furthermore, there was no difference in the proportion of hypotensive time (mean arterial pressure, MAP<65) (3.7% vs 1.6%, p=0.40). However, in the subgroup of patients who underwent operation with invasive blood pressure monitoring, there was less severe hypotension (MAP<55) (0.3% vs 0.0%, p=0.02) and intermediate hypotension (MAP<65) (10.2% vs 2.6%, p=0.07) in the treatment group, even though remifentanil consumption was higher (3.5 μg kg-1h-1 vs 5.1 μg kg-1h-1 p=0.03).
Conclusions
The use of SPI guidance for the administration of remifentanil during surgery did not help to reduce the remifentanil consumption. However, the results from invasively monitored study group suggest more timely administered opioid when SPI was used.
Light-Field-Controlled PHz Currents in Metals
Authors: Fehér Beatrix , Hanus Václav , Li Weiwei , Pápa Zsuzsanna , Budai Judit , Paul Pallabi , Szeghalmi Adriana , Wang Zilong , Kling Matthias , Dombi Péter
Published: April 2024

Oriented electric currents in metals are routinely driven by applying an external electric potential. Although the response of electrons to the external electric fields occurs within attoseconds, conventional electronics do not utilize this speed potential. Ultrafast laser technology, which delivers laser pulses with controlled shapes of electric fields that switch direction at PHz frequencies, opens new perspectives for driving electric currents in metals. Here, we demonstrate an interaction of light with nm-thick metallic layers, that leads to a generation of PHz-bandwidth electric currents, providing evidence that currents in metals can be optically controlled. We show that the implantation of metallic layers into a dielectric matrix leads up to 40 times increase of the sensitivity in contrast to bare dielectric, decreasing the intensity threshold for the lightwave electronics. We establish a link between electronic and optical properties by identifying an empirical relationship between the index of nonlinear susceptibility X(3) and the generated current. We provide an intraband-motion model elucidating the origin of the measured current.
Core and surface structure and magnetic properties of mechano- synthesized LaFeO3 nanoparticles and their Eu3+ -doped and Eu3+ /Cr3+-co-doped variants
Authors: Al-Mamari R. T. , Widatallah H. M. , Elzain M. E. , Gismelseed A. M. , Al-Rawas A. D. , Al-Harthi S. H. , Myint M. T. Z. , Al-Saqri N , Al-Abri Mohammed
Published: April 2024

The core and surface structure, and magnetism of mechano-synthesized LaFeO3 nanoparticles (30-40 nm), Eu3+-doped (La0.70Eu0.30FeO3), and Eu3+/Cr3+ co-doped (La0.70Eu0.30Fe0.95Cr0.05O3) are reported. Doping results in a transition from the O՝-type to the O-type distorted structure. Traces of reactants, intermediate phases, and a small amount of Eu2+ions were detected on the surfaces of the nanoparticles. The nanoparticles consist of antiferromagnetic cores flanked by ferromagnetic shells. The Eu3+ dopant ions enhance the magnetization values relative to those of the pristine nanoparticles and result in magnetic susceptibilities compatible with the presence of Eu3+ van Vleck paramagnetism of spin–orbit coupling constant (l = 363 cm-1) and a low temperature Curie-Weiss like behavior associated with the minority Eu2+ ions. Anomalous temperature-dependent magnetic hardening due to competing magnetic anisotropy and magnetoelectric coupling effects together with a temperature-dependent dopant-sensitive exchange bias, caused by thermally activated spin reversals at the core of the nanoparticles, were observed.
A Coordinated Adaptive Multiscale Enhanced Spatio-Temporal Fusion Network for Multi-lead Electrocardiogram Arrhythmia Detection
Authors: Yang Zicong , Jin Aitong , Li Yu , Yu Xuyi , Xu Xi , Wang Junxi , li Qiaolin , Guo Xiaoyan
Published: April 2024

The multi-lead electrocardiogram (ECG) is extensively used in clinical diagnosis and monitoring of cardiac conditions. With the development of deep learning, automated multi-lead ECG diagnostic networks play a crucial role in biomedical engineering and clinical cardiac disease diagnosis. Methods for intelligent ECG diagnosis include Recurrent Neural Networks (RNN), Transformers, and Convolutional Neural Networks (CNN). However, CNN can extract local spatial features of images, but it cannot learn global spatial features and temporal memory features. On the other hand, RNN relies on time and can remember important sequence features, but it cannot effectively extract long dependencies of sequence data in practical situations. The self-attention mechanism in Transformer has the capability of global feature extraction, but it does not adequately prioritize local features and lacks spatial and channel feature extraction capabilities. In this study, we propose STFAC-ECGNet, which comprises a CAMV-RNN block, CBMV-CNN block, and TSEF block, combining the advantages of CNN, RNN, and Transformer. The CAMV-RNN block introduces a coordinated adaptive simplified self-attention module, which adaptively performs global sequence feature memorization and enhances spatial-temporal information. The CBMV-CNN block integrates spatial and channel attentional mechanism modules in a skip connection, which can combine spatial and channel information. The TSEF block implements enhanced multi-scale fusion of image spatial and sequence temporal features. In this study, comprehensive experiments were conducted using the PTB-XL large publicly available ECG dataset and the China Physiological Signal Challenge 2018 (CPSC2018) database. The results demonstrate that STFAC-ECGNet outperforms other state-of-the-art methods in multiple tasks, exhibiting robustness and generalization.
The Influence of Birthweight on Adult Lung Function: Insights from the UK Biobank
Authors: Wang Yu , Zhang Yuanyi , Bo Yacong , Li Pengfei , Jiang Tianci , Li Yue , Cheng Zhe , Zhu Yongjian
Published: April 2024

The potential impact of birthweight on adult lung function has been postulated, yet the precise nature of this association in later life remains inconclusive. This study involved extracting data from a total of 201,615 individuals from the UK Biobank dataset. To identify group differences in lung function based on birthweight subgroups, propensity score matching and a pairwise t-test were conducted. The impact of birthweight on lung function was established using a linear regression, gradually adjusting for variables. Additionally, subgroup analyses were conducted to investigate whether the relationship between birthweight and lung function was modified by variations in age-related lung function changes. The modifying effect was examined by adding a multiplicative interaction term. The low birthweight group demonstrated significantly lower forced expiratory volume in 1 second (FEV1) and forced vital capacity (FVC) in comparison to those in the adequate birthweight group (P < 0.001). Conversely, no statistically significant distinction was observed in macrosomia (P = 0.374 for FEV1; P = 0.911 for FVC). A positive linear correlation between birthweight and lung function was observed within each interval, specifically in the subgroup of individuals with a birthweight ranging from 2.5 to 4 Kg. After accounting for various confounding factors, every 1 Kg increase in birthweight was found to be significantly associated with a mean increase in FEV1 of 70.9 mL (95% CI 63.7 to 78.1, P < 0.001) in males and 56.0 mL (95% CI 52.1 to 59.9, P < 0.001) in females. Additionally, there was a significant increase in FVC of 86.7 mL (95% CI 78.3 to 95.1, P < 0.001) in males and 62.2 mL (95% CI 57.5 to 66.9, P < 0.001) in females. Additionally, macrosomia group demonstrated a more pronounced decrease in lung function over time, in contrast to the low birthweight group which exhibited a similar decline pattern to the adequate birthweight group. The utilization of a rigorous statistical methodology has enabled us to derive reliable results, indicating that attaining an optimal birthweight is of utmost importance in determining respiratory health.
Unveiling the Role of SYNGR4 in Breast Cancer Development: A Novel Target for Immunotherapy
Authors: Ma Jie , Wang Hongtao , Yang Yuanrong
Published: April 2024

Although SYNGR4 is recognized as a contributing gene to amyotrophic lateral sclerosis, its involvement in the progression of breast cancer remains unknown. SYNGR4 expression in multiple types of cancer, such as breast cancer. The effect of SYNGR4 on breast cancer prognosis was analyzed using bioinformatics and possible pathways by which this molecule affects breast cancer prognosis were explored. GSVA was used to analyze the impact of SYNGR4 on immune infiltration in breast cancer, while cellular and animal experiments confirmed the influence of SYNGR4 on breast cancer proliferation, migration, and tumor-associated macrophage polarization within cancer foci. SYNGR4 is abundantly present in numerous cancerous growths, such as breast cancer, and has an impact on the outlook for individuals with breast cancer. This may be a volatile effect through Organelle fission, chromosome segregation, nuclear division, etc. Increased SYNGR4 expression impacts the growth, movement, and immune cell infiltration of breast cancer, as well as encourages the transformation of tumor-associated macrophages in breast cancer towards M2 polarization. SYNGR4 overexpression can affect the prognosis of breast cancer patients by promoting M2 polarization of tumor-associated macrophages in breast cancer, and this molecule may be a novel target for breast cancer immunotherapy.
Navigating the Future of Healthcare: Divulging the Significance of "Patient as an Organization" in the Digital Health Landscape
Authors: Gupta Atantra Das
Published: April 2024

This article presents the concept of the "Patient as an Organization" paradigm, highlighting its importance in the context of digital health. This notion highlights the need of patient-centered care and the strategic incorporation of digital health technology by likening healthcare systems to dynamic organizations. We explore the ways in which this method promotes creativity, improves patient involvement, and aligns healthcare regulations with the objectives of the company to get better healthcare results. The use of digital health technology is crucial in addressing global health concerns. This article advocates for a change in viewpoint towards seeing the patient as an organization, which encourages a cooperative, thorough, and individualized approach to healthcare.
Direct observation of North Atlantic nutrient transport and biological pump variability linked to the Meridional Overturning Circulation
Authors: Carracedo Lidia I. , McDonagh Elaine , Sanders Richard , Moore C. Mark , Mercier Herle , Brown Peter J. , Torres-Valdés Sinhué , Mawji Edward W. , Baringer Molly , Smeed David , Rosón Gabriel
Published: April 2024

The ocean biological carbon pump (BCP) plays a pivotal role in the global carbon cycle. The BCP magnitude is determined by the fraction of nutrients utilised in biological production and remineralised at depth, with the remainder being subducted into the interior unused as ‘preformed’ nutrients. This fraction is currently around 50% and subject to the interaction of biological processes and global scale circulation. Consequently, changes in circulation can potentially impact biological carbon storage. Here we provide observational evidence that the reduction in the Atlantic Meridional Overturning Circulation (AMOC) that occurred over the 2004-2018 period has been accompanied by substantial changes in nutrient transports and associated carbon storage. Persistent southward net nutrient transport across 26.5°N exceeded nutrient sources, except by the end of the period when the system approached balance. This transient net loss of nutrients from the North Atlantic was accompanied by increases in the ratio of remineralized to preformed nutrients, indicating an increasing BCP efficiency (and carbon storage). Our results thus demonstrate observable transient changes in large scale nutrient transports linked to AMOC changes over interannual - decadal timescales, with implications for future ocean carbon storage.
Research on the Effect of Personal Income Tax Adjustment on Income Distribution Based on General Equilibrium
Authors: li Baofeng , zhang xuerui , Chen Tigui
Published: April 2024

Personal income tax is the most important tax type to regulate the distribution of residents' income in China, but how the redistributive effect of personal income tax is, the existing literature lacks an in-depth analysis based on general equilibrium. To study the impact of personal income tax on resident income distribution, this article constructs a Computable General Equilibrium (CGE) model of taxation and compiles Social Accounting Matrices (SAM) based on the four issues of China’s Input-output Table published in the past decade, and comprehensively measures and vertically compares the effect of personal income tax on resident income distribution from income effect and consumption effect. Research has found that: (1) levying personal income tax has narrowed the income gap among urban, rural, and national residents, indicating a progressive nature of taxation. Chinese Personal income tax taxpayers are mainly concentrated in high-income groups, which is the main reason for the progressive nature of Personal income tax. (2) Across time, the redistributive effect of the personal income tax increased period by period before the 2018 tax reform, and then weakened after the tax change. Finally, this article proposes policy recommendations to improve the personal income tax system and enhance the redistribution effect. The research conclusion provides reference significance for further reforming China’s tax system and improving the income distribution pattern.
JEL Codes C68, D31. D63, H23, H25
Determination of UPLC-ESI MS/MS- and GC-MS-based altitudinal variations in the bioactive potential of traditional medicinal plants
Authors: Singh Garima , Passari Ajit Kumar , Kumar N Senthil , Kumar Brijesh , Nayak S Chandra , Ram Heera , Singh Bhim Pratap
Published: April 2024

Traditional medicinal plants have attracted scientific interest due to their bioactive compounds, and the levels of their constituents vary with location and altitude. The present study was designed to evaluate the pharmacological potential of two traditional medicinal plants, Mikania micrantha and Ageratum huostonianum; these were collected from two sites, Murlen National Park (MNP) and Dampa Tiger Reserve (DTR), which are located at different altitudes. Both plant species are used by local traditional healers in Mizoram, Northeast India, for the treatment of various health problems. We hypothesized that altitudinal variation would affect these plants' chemical composition and bioactive potential. Plant extracts were evaluated for antioxidant, antimicrobial, and cytotoxic activities. The results show that the plants located at a higher altitude, i.e., MNP, showed higher TPC (615.7 ± 0.58 and 453.80 ± 0.95 µg gallic acid equivalents/mg of plant extract dry weight (µg GAE/mg) for M. micrantha and A. huostonium, respectively) and TFC (135.4 ± 0.46 and 120.66 ± 1.93 µg quercetin equivalents/mg of plant extract dry weight (µg GE/mg) for M. micrantha and A. huostonium, respectively). The extract of A. houstonianum (MNP) exhibited significantly greater antioxidant activity against ABTS radicals (IC50 241.6 µg/mL) as compared to the extract of A. houstonianum (DTR) (IC50 371.2 µg/mL). The composition of the bioactive compounds present in the plants was determined using UPLC-ESI MS/MS and GC/MS, which detected five and ten compounds in the A. houstonianum and M. micrantha extracts, respectively. Plant species collected from the Murlen National Park site had high bioactivity potential and contained several bioactive compounds. A distinct variation between the volatile and non-volatile compounds was revealed. The collective data in this study show the influence of altitude on the biological compound production of selected medicinal plants. The findings will be utilized in determining the plant material needed for the development of bioactive formulations.