bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Entwicklung klinisch relevanter Vitalwerte von Ziegenlämmern
verschiedener Rassen zwischen Geburt und 28. Lebenstag post
natum
Authors: Simon Claudia , Bostedt Hartwig
Published: August 2023

Gegenstand und Ziel Die Überwachung capriner Neonaten ist von
großer Bedeutung, um Verluste an wertvollem Nachzuchtpotenzial zu
minimieren. Sie erfordert neben Erfahrung und ethologischen Kenntnissen klinisch
relevante Grundwerte für die Vitalitätsbeurteilung. Ziel der
Studie war deshalb, bei gesunden Ziegenlämmern entsprechende
Basisparameter zu registrieren.

Material und Methoden Aufnahme in die Untersuchung fanden 46 gesunde,
vital geborene Lämmer von 28 Mutterziegen der Rassen Weiße
Deutsche Edelziege (WDE, n=15), Burenziege (n=7) und
Toggenburger Ziege (n=6). Die 3 Probandengruppen umfassten 26 WDE-, 9
Burenziegen- und 11 Toggenburger-Ziegenlämmer. Von der Geburt an standen
sie unter intensiver tierärztlicher Kontrolle. Die Messung der
Vitalparameter Atem- und Herzfrequenz sowie rektale Temperatur erfolgte
unmittelbar p.n.; 3., 12., 24. h p.n.; 2., 3., 5., 7., 9., 14., 21. und 28. d
p.n. Ermittelt wurden ferner die Scheitel-Steiß-Länge (SSL), das
Geburtsgewicht und die Gewichtsentwicklung bis zum 28. d p.n. Die statistische
Auswertung der Daten erfolgte mittels BMDP/Dynamic Release 7.0 und
zweifaktorieller Varianzanalyse.

Ergebnisse Die Vitalparameter zeigten in den ersten 4 Wochen p.n. einen
typischen Verlauf mit einem deutlichen Rückgang der Werte ab dem 5. d.
p.n. Die Zeit wie auch die Rasse hatten signifikanten Einfluss auf die
Entwicklung der jeweiligen Profile (Kovararianzanalyse; p<0,001).
Für die SSL und das Geburtsgewicht bestand eine lineare Korrelation
(y=0,0037 ×28969; r-Wert 0,7805). Die tägliche
Gewichtszunahme verlief unabhängig von der Rasse und der
Ernährungsform. Dagegen bestand eine signifikante Abhängigkeit
zwischen Geburtstyp (Einlings- oder Mehrlingsgeburt) und Gewichtszunahme mit
p<0,01 sowie zwischen Geburtsgewicht und Geschlecht
(p<0,05).

Schlussfolgerung Die dargestellten typischen, rasseabhängigen
postnatalen Veränderungen der Vitalparameter bei Ziegenlämmern
im Zeitraum 0–28 Tage p.n. ermöglichen in der Bestandsbetreuung
anhand der physiologischen Wertetabellen eine spezifischere Differenzierung
zwischen klinisch gesunden und auffälligen Individuen. Die
alterskorrelierte Gewichtszunahme dient als weiterer Evaluierungsparameter.
Longitudinale Studie zum Zeitpunkt einer Infektion von
Schaflämmern mit Salmonella enterica subspecies diarizonae
serovar 61: k: 1, 5, (7)
Authors: Heinemann Lisa , Methner Ulrich , Donat Karsten , Moog Udo
Published: August 2023

Gegenstand und Ziel Infektionen mit Salmonella enterica subspecies
diarizonae Serovar 61: k: 1, 5, (7) (SASd) sind bei Schafen weit
verbreitet. SASd wird als wirtsassoziiert mit geringer Virulenz betrachtet. Ziel
der Studie war es, den Zeitpunkt des ersten SASd-Nachweises bei Lämmern
nach der Geburt sowie eine dabei bestehende Abhängigkeit vom
Infektionsstatus des Mutterschafes zu ermitteln.

Material und Methoden Kottupfer und Nasentupfer von 88 Mutterschafen aus
einer Herde mit bekanntem SASd-Status jedoch unbekannter
Intraherdenprävalenz wurden 6 Wochen vor Beginn der Ablammperiode auf
SASd untersucht. Von je einem weiblichen Lamm dieser Mutterschafe wurden
ebenfalls Kottupfer und Nasentupfer an 4–6 Zeitpunkten zwischen dem 4.
und 50. Lebenstag (LT) sowie im Alter von 7, 30 und 40 Monaten auf SASd
untersucht.

Ergebnisse In den ersten beiden Wochen nach der Geburt wiesen deutlich
mehr Lämmer einen positiven Befund im Nasentupfer als im Kottupfer auf,
wobei vor allem bei Lämmern von Muttern mit positivem Nasentupfer
ebenfalls SASd auf der Nasenschleimhaut nachgewiesen wurde. 43 Lämmer
blieben bis zum 50. Tag SASd-negativ, es bestand keine Abhängigkeit vom
Infektionsstatus des Muttertiers. Mit 7 Lebensmonaten erhöhte sich die
Zahl der Tiere mit einem positiven Nachweis von SASd deutlich. Aus 32%
der untersuchten Nasentupfer und 62% der Kotproben konnte SASd isoliert
werden.

Schlussfolgerungen Es erfolgt keine schnelle und intensive
Übertragung von SASd von Mutterschafen auf deren Nachkommen. Die
Infektion beginnt mit hoher Wahrscheinlichkeit durch die Kolonisierung der
Nasenschleimhaut der Lämmer und verursacht keine klinische
Symptomatik.

Klinische Relevanz Selbst bei einer hohen Intraherdenprävalenz
führen Infektionen mit SASd mit hoher Wahrscheinlichkeit nur in sehr
selten Fällen zu einer klinischen Symptomatik.
Body temperature measurement in anesthetized dogs –
comparison of nasal, axillary, rectal and esophageal temperature
Authors: Ward Rob , McMillan Matt , Gittel Claudia
Published: August 2023

Objective To evaluate different methods of monitoring body temperature in
anesthetized dogs with comparison to core temperature obtained via esophageal
probe.

Methods Client-owned dogs undergoing general anesthesia for various
procedures were included in this observational study. The temperature was taken
sequentially every 10 minutes from the rectum, axilla, and nasal cavity
with a digital thermistor thermometer, and compared to esophageal core
temperature via paired t-tests. Differences from the gold standard esophageal
temperature were assessed via Bland-Altman plots and further evaluated for
factors like time under anesthesia and presence of Hypo-/Normo- or
Hyperthermia. In addition, it was analyzed whether a correction factor for
peripheral measurement sites (nasal cavity and axilla) would be applicable in a
reliable representation of the body temperature. The level of significance in
all tests was set at p<0.05.

Results In this study, 95 simultaneous temperature measurements at the 4
different sites were obtained from 30 dogs. Mean difference and limits of
agreement from esophageal temperature for the different measurement methods were
0.0±0.72°C for rectal temperature,
−1.2±1.42°C for axillary and
−1.0±2.02°C for nasal temperature. Axillary and nasal
temperatures were not significantly different (p=0.5721 and
p=0.9287, respectively) from esophageal temperature with a
+1.2°C and +1°C correction factor,
respectively.

Conclusion and Clinical relevance During perioperative temperature
measurement in anesthetized patients, rectal and esophageal measurements can be
used interchangeable. However, if these are not available, the use of axillary
or nasal sites is only reliable after applying a correction factor.
Indurative Mastitis in einer Herde Dorperschafe als Folge einer
Infektion mit dem Maedi-Visna-Virus
Authors: Liebler-Tenorio Elisabeth M. , Moog Udo , Barth StefanieA. , König Patricia
Published: August 2023

Dieser Fallbericht beschreibt indurative Mastitis in einer Schafherde als Folge
einer Maedi-Visna-Virus (MVV)-Infektion. Mangelndes Aufeutern und kleine
verhärtete Euter nach dem Ablammen sowie vermehrt Lämmerverluste
wurden in einer Herde Dorperschafe beobachtet. Die Befunde an Euter und Milch
waren nicht charakteristisch für eine chronische bakterielle Mastitis.
Die ungenügende Eiweißversorgung der Mutterschafe kann zu einer
verringerten Milchmenge, aber nicht zu den verhärteten Eutern
geführt haben. Neunzehn der 21 Mutterschafe waren positiv für
MVV-Antikörper. Euter und Euterlymphknoten eines Schafes mit
verhärtetem Euter wurden anlässlich der Schlachtung entnommen.
Bei der Fleischbeschau wurden keine weiteren Organveränderungen
festgestellt. Die eine Euterhälfte zeigte eine gering- bis mittelgradige
multifokale lymphohistiozytäre Mastitis, die andere eine hochgradige
diffuse lymphohistiozytäre Mastitis mit Atrophie des
Drüsengewebes, Vaskulopathie, Fibrose und Verkalkung. MVV-Antigen war
immunhistologisch in Makrophagen, dendritischen Zellen, Epithelzellen und
Endothelzellen der Milchdrüse sowie in Makrophagen und dendritischen
Zellen der Euterlymphknoten zu finden. MVV-Provirusabschnitte konnten in den
Euterlymphknoten und der stärker veränderten Euterhälfte
in besonders hoher Menge mittels PCR nachgewiesen werden. Diese Fallbeschreibung
soll daran erinnern, dass indurative Mastitis unabhängig von den besser
bekannten Manifestationen der Maedi-Visna in Lunge und Gehirn als Folge einer
systemischen MVV-Infektion auftreten kann. MVV sollte daher stets als Ursache
für Mastitis beim Schaf differentialdiagnostisch berücksichtigt
werden. Für den Nachweis einer MVV-Infektion wird zunächst der
Antikörperstatus der betroffenen Tiere bzw. der gesamten Herde
ermittelt. Im veränderten Eutergewebe treten charakteristische
histologische Veränderungen auf. MVV-Antigen kann immunhistologisch
dargestellt werden, weiterhin kann MVV-Provirus mittels PCR im
veränderten Eutergewebe und den regionalen Lymphknoten nachgewiesen
werden.
Differenzialdiagnostik von Veränderungen in Intraokularlinsen
Authors: Yildirim Timur M. , Auffarth Gerd U. , Henningsen Nikola , Łabuz Grzegorz , Augustin Victor A. , Son Hyeck-Soo , Mackenbrock Lars H. B. , Khoramnia Ramin
Published: August 2023

Die Unterscheidung verschiedener Intraokularlinsenveränderungen kann eine Herausforderung darstellen. Insbesondere bestimmte IOL-Modelle (IOL: Intraokularlinsen) bergen das Risiko einer
späten postoperativen Kalzifikation. Eine Hauptursache für einen IOL-Austausch könnte vermieden werden, wenn bei der Herstellung der Kunstlinsen entsprechende Änderungen vorgenommen würden.
Die Verwendung hydrophiler Acrylate birgt das Risiko einer IOL-Kalzifikation, insbesondere, wenn ein sekundärer Eingriff, wie eine Pars-plana-Vitrektomie oder andere Verfahren, bei denen Gas
oder Luft verwendet werden, durchgeführt wird. Bei der sekundären IOL-Kalzifikation existiert eine große Bandbreite an variablen Phänotypen und Ausprägungen, die sich meist im Zentrum auf
der IOL-Vorderfläche, teils jedoch auch an anderer Stelle, befinden. Oft kommt es zu granulären Ablagerungen, die sich knapp unterhalb oder auf der Oberfläche der IOL ansammeln, zu einer
erheblichen Verschlechterung der Sehqualität führen und schließlich einen IOL-Austausch erforderlich machen können. Deshalb sollte im Falle von Augen, die in der Zukunft eine sekundäre
chirurgische intraokulare Intervention benötigen, der Einsatz hydrophiler IOL kritisch geprüft werden. Hinsichtlich hydrophober IOL-Materialien zeigen sich deutliche Unterschiede in der
Anfälligkeit zur Ausbildung von Glistenings. Im zeitlichen Verlauf fällt auf, dass es in den vergangenen fast 30 Jahren durch Verbesserung des Materials zu einem deutlichen Rückgang an
Glistenings kam. Gerade bei hydrophoben IOL sollte auch auf eine vorsichtige Handhabung geachtet werden, um mechanische Schäden zu vermeiden. Die einzige Behandlungsmöglichkeit einer
funktionell beeinträchtigenden IOL-Trübung ist ein chirurgischer Linsenaustausch, der mit potenziellen Risiken operativer Komplikationen verbunden ist. In Fällen mit einer geringen
funktionellen Beeinträchtigung und insbesondere bei Augen mit zusätzlichen Augenkrankheiten kann es schwierig sein, das Risiko einer zusätzlichen Operation gegen den potenziellen Nutzen
abzuwägen. Teilweise kann es sinnvoller sein, einen IOL-Austausch trotz einer IOL-Trübung nicht durchzuführen. Neuste hochauflösende Visualisierungsmethoden, die eine detaillierte Analyse
von Trübungen in vivo und in vitro ermöglichen, könnten in Zukunft zur Abschätzung der funktionellen Auswirkungen verschiedener IOL-Materialveränderungen auf die optische Qualität verwendet
werden.
Sequential Bromination/Dearomatization Reactions of 2-Methoxyphenols en route to Bromo-Substituted ortho-Quinonemonoacetals
Authors: Takasu Kiyosei , Takikawa Hiroshi , Hayashi Shunya
Published: August 2023

A novel method involving the sequential dibromination and dearomatization of 2-methoxyphenols with N-bromosuccinimide (NBS) is described, providing rapid access to brominated ortho-quinone monoacetals (o-QMAs). Our method demonstrates two notable aspects: (1) the introduction of a bromo group(s) into the aromatic ring and its subsequent conversion into o-QMAs in a single operation, and (2) the use of NBS as a convenient oxidant in oxidative dearomatization reactions.
Individualized Homeopathic Medicines in the Treatment of Painful Diabetic Peripheral Neuropathy: A Single-Arm, Pre–Post Comparison Trial
Authors: Sanyal Srimonti , Ghosh Shubhamoy , Dutta Abhijit
Published: August 2023

Painful peripheral neuropathy is one of the most common microvascular complications of long-continued, uncontrolled diabetes mellitus. The role of individualized homeopathic treatment has not been well evaluated in managing such cases earlier. This aim of this study was to assess the impact of individualized homeopathic treatment on pain intensity in patients with painful diabetic peripheral neuropathy (PDN) through an open-label, single-arm, pre–post comparison clinical trial. A total of 39 patients diagnosed with PDN were included in the trial. The visual analog scale (VAS) for pain and the 36-Item Short Form Survey (SF-36) were utilized as outcome measures and administered at baseline and after 3 months of intervention. Homeopathic medicines were prescribed using a precision-guided approach based on individualized principles. The changes in VAS score and SF-36 domains were analyzed using the Wilcoxon matched pairs signed rank test. Statistically significant reduction in neuropathic pain (median: 8.0; interquartile range [IQR]: 7.0–9.0) compared with baseline (median: 6.0; IQR: 5.0–7.0) were observed (Z = −5.34; p < 0.001). Moreover, improvements were seen in various SF-36 domains related to physical and emotional well-being, social functioning, pain, general health, and health change after 3 months of treatment. The frequently prescribed medicines included Lycopodium clavatum (15.4%), Natrum muriaticum (15.4%), Causticum (15.4%), Medorrhinum (12.8%), and Sulphur (12.8%). Individualized homeopathic treatment significantly reduced pain and enhanced the quality of life in individuals suffering from PDN. However, further randomized trials with improved methodological rigor are needed to strengthen the conclusions drawn from this study.

Trial Registration CTRI/2018/10/016196; UTN: U1111–1221–7664.
Examining the impact of fluid shear stress on cancer-fighting immune cells
Authors: Thompson Avery
Published: August 2023

Natural killer cells hunt rogue cancer cells in the bloodstream aided by increased fluid shear stress.
An optimized growth model for Fe/Pt heteroepitaxy by computational and structural studies
Authors: Karfaridis Dimitrios , Giaremis Stefanos , Kehagias Thomas , Kioseoglou Joseph , Papaioannou Evangelos Th. , Vourlias George
Published: August 2023

Thin layers of ferromagnetic/non-magnetic bimetallic heterostructures have become the focal point of spintronics, primarily due to their capacity to convert spin to charge current, leveraging the spin- and inverse spin Hall effects. However, the interfacial properties and morphologies can significantly influence this conversion. Hence, we employed molecular dynamics calculations to model the construction of the Fe/Pt interface at various bilayer growth temperatures and Pt deposition rates. We then experimentally evaluated the modeling using x-ray methods to resolve the chemical and structural state of the interface. The calculations revealed moderate diffusive phenomena between the adjacent layers and an interfacial roughness of less than 1 nm, consistent with the experimental observations. In cases where plastic relaxation of the Fe/Pt interface is insufficient, lattice deformation is mitigated by a local pseudomorphic growth caused by transformation of the Pt crystal symmetry. Additionally, interfacial planar defects may emerge as a complementary stress-relieving mechanism to misfit dislocations. By combining the experimental and computational findings, we propose optimized growth conditions for an “ideal” Fe/Pt interface, which could serve as a useful tool to control the efficiency of spin-to-charge conversion.
Robust and accurate depth estimation by fusing LiDAR and stereo
Authors: Xu Guangyao , Cao Xuewei , Liu Jiaxin , Fan Junfeng , Li En , Long Xiaoyu
Published: August 2023

Depth estimation is one of the key technologies in some fields such as autonomous driving and robot navigation. However, the traditional method of using a single sensor is inevitably limited by the sensor’s performance. Therefore, a precise and robust method for fusing LiDAR and stereo cameras is proposed. This method fully combines the advantages of the LiDAR and stereo cameras, which can retain the advantages of the high precision of the LiDAR and the high resolution of images respectively. Compared with the traditional stereo matching method, the texture of the object and lighting conditions have less influence on the algorithm. Firstly, the depth of the LiDAR data is converted to the disparity of the stereo camera. Because the density of the LiDAR data is relatively sparse on the y-axis, the converted disparity map is up-sampled using the interpolation method. Secondly, in order to make full use of the precise disparity map, the disparity map and stereo-matching are fused to propagate the accurate disparity. Finally, the disparity map is converted to the depth map. Moreover, the converted disparity map can also increase the speed of the algorithm. We evaluate the proposed pipeline on the KITTI benchmark. The experiment demonstrates that our algorithm has higher accuracy than several classic methods.
Particle-resolved optical diagnostics of solid fuel combustion for clean power generation: a review
Authors: Li Tao , Geschwindner Christopher , Dreizler Andreas , Böhm Benjamin
Published: August 2023

Chemical energy carriers are crucial for addressing challenges that arise from time lag, large distances, and temporal fluctuations in renewable energy production, which lead to unbalanced energy production and demand. The thermochemical utilization of chemical energy carriers such as solid fuels must be decarbonized to achieve a climate-neutral circular economy as soon as possible, while remaining important for reliable electricity generation and stable economics. To accomplish this, extensive fundamental research is required to understand the underlying chemical and physical processes that can potentially be realized at an industrial scale. This paper reviews optical diagnostics used for particle-level combustion studies for clean power generation applications. The focus is on particle-resolved optical experiments for oxy-fuel coal combustion, biomass combustion, and utilization of iron in regenerative oxidation–reduction schemes. Previous studies are categorized by fuel and reactor types, investigated parameters, and experimental methodology. Phenomenological aspects of the multi-stage combustion process at the particle level are outlined using examples of bituminous coal and iron particle burning in hot gas. A selection of experimental studies is highlighted, with a particular methodological focus on measuring quantities at the particle level. These representative examples address relevant parameters, including particle number density, particle size and shape, surface temperature, ignition and combustion time, gas flame structure, gas temperature and species, nanoparticle formation, gas velocity, and particle dynamics. Finally, issues and problems that require further effort to improve diagnostics for solid fuel combustion studies are discussed.
MAS-Net:Multi-modal Assistant Segmentation Network For Lumbar Intervertebral Disc
Authors: Qinhong Du , Yue He , Wendong Bu , Yukun Du , Huan Yang , Yongming Xi
Published: August 2023

Objective. Despite advancements in medical imaging technology, the diagnosis and positioning of lumbar disc diseases still heavily rely on the expertise and experience of medical professionals. This process is often time-consuming, labor-intensive, and susceptible to subjective factors. Achieving automatic positioning and segmentation of lumbar intervertebral disc (LID) is the first and critical step in intelligent diagnosis of lumbar disc diseases. However, due to the complexity of the vertebral body and the ambiguity of the soft tissue boundaries of the LID, accurate and intelligent segmentation of LIDs remains challenging. The study aims to accurately and intelligently segment and locate LIDs by fully utilizing multi-modal lumbar magnetic resonance Images (MRIs). Approach. A novel multi-modal assistant segmentation network (MAS-Net) is proposed in this paper. The architecture consists of four key components: the multi-branch fusion encoder (MBFE), the cross-modality correlation evaluation (CMCE), the channel fusion transformer (CFT), and the selective Kernel (SK) based decoder. The MBFE module captures and integrates various modal features, while the CMCE module facilitates the fusion process between the MBFE and decoder. The CFT module selectively guides the flow of information between the MBFE and decoder and effectively utilizes skip connections from multiple layers. The SK module computes the significance of each channel using global pooling operations and applies weights to the input feature maps to improve the models recognition of important features. Main results. The proposed MAS-Net achieved a dice coefficient of 93.08% on IVD3Seg and 93.22% on DualModalDisc dataset, outperforming the current state-of-the-art network, accurately segmenting the LIDs, and generating a 3D model that can precisely display the LIDs. Significance. MAS-Net automates the diagnostics process and addresses challenges faced by doctors. Simplifying and enhancing the clarity of visual representation, multi-modal MRI allows for better information complementation and LIDs segmentation. By successfully integrating data from various modalities, the accuracy of LID segmentation is improved.
Unsupervised learning-based dual-domain method for low-dose CT denoising
Authors: Yu Jie , Zhang Huitao , Zhang Peng , Zhu Yining
Published: August 2023

Objective. Low-dose CT (LDCT) is an important research topic in the field of CT imaging because of its ability to reduce radiation damage in clinical diagnosis. In recent years, deep learning techniques have been widely applied in LDCT imaging and a large number of denoising methods have been proposed. However, One major challenge of supervised deep learning-based methods is the exactly geometric pairing of datasets with different doses. Therefore, the aim of this study is to develop an unsupervised learning-based LDCT imaging method to address the aforementioned challenges. Approach. In this paper, we propose an unsupervised learning-based dual-domain method for LDCT denoising, which consists of two stages: the first stage is projection domain denoising, in which the unsupervised learning method Noise2Self is applied to denoise the projection data with statistically independent and zero-mean noise. The second stage is an iterative enhancement approach, which combines the prior information obtained from the generative model with an iterative reconstruction algorithm to enhance the details of the reconstructed image. Main results. Experimental results show that our proposed method outperforms the comparison method in terms of denoising effect. Particularly, in terms of SSIM, the denoised results obtained using our method achieve the highest SSIM. Significance. In conclusion, our unsupervised learning-based method can be a promising alternative to the traditional supervised methods for LDCT imaging, especially when the availability of the labeled datasets is limited.
A non-destructive method for detecting turn-to-turn resistivity distribution in NI REBCO coils
Authors: Wu Wei , Lu Li , Zhong Zhuoyan , Li Kai , Jin Zhijian
Published: August 2023

A non-destructive method is proposed for detecting the turn-to-turn resistivity distribution (TTRD) of non-insulation (NI) coils made of REBCO tapes. In conventional designs, TTRD is often estimated to be a constant, while it is actually non-uniform. It is crucial to detect the TTRD of NI coils more accurately as it determines the behaviour of NI coils and may lead to peculiar phenomena such as local reverse currents. The proposed approach involves acquiring the temporal change of voltage distribution during an excitation/demagnetization process, which is subsequently incorporated into a system of ordinary differential equations derived from an equivalent circuit model. A genetic algorithm (GA) is then employed to fit the collected time-varying voltage data and generate the results of the ‘measured’ TTRD. The system of equations can actually be numerically solved. The solved time-varying TTRD results are averaged over the measuring period, which serve as the initial value of GA fitting, and accelerates the fitting process. Virtual measurements were performed on an artificially established mock coil, demonstrating high accuracy in reproducing the predetermined TTRD. Furthermore, an actual measurement was also conducted on a single-pancake coil, however with unknown TTRD, using eight voltage measurement points during the demagnetization process. The measured TTRD was incorporated into the equivalent circuit model to predict the temporal changes in voltage and magnetic field of the coil under additional excitation/demagnetization conditions. By comparing the predicted results with the experimental data, a high level of agreement was observed, thus confirming the potential application of the proposed method.
On analytical study of Griffith crack propagation in a transversely isotropic dry sandy punch pressured strip
Authors: Singh Ajeet Kumar , Singh Abhishek Kumar , Kaushik Shubham Kumar
Published: August 2023

The present study focuses on the propagation of a Griffith crack in an infinitely extending finitely thick transversely isotropic dry sandy strip with moving parallel punch pressure acting at the bounding surface of the layer because of the propagation of plane waves under mechanical point loading. Furthermore, the present model is developed using coupled singular integral equations, Dirac delta function & Cauchy-type singularities; it is applied to investigate the point load at the moving crack edge, and Hilbert transformation properties are also used to derive the stress intensity factor (SIF) with constant point loading in closed form. Numerical computation & graphical demonstrations have been provided to examine the influence of the prevailing parameters, viz. length & speed of the crack, pressure of the punch, sandiness parameter and different positions of point load, on the SIF for transversely isotropic dry sandy and also for isotropic material strips. A comparative study of the SIF at the tip of moving crack has been carried out for the transversely isotropic dry sandy strip and isotropic materials strip with and without punch pressure and sandiness to highlight some of the important peculiarities of the problem.
Nonlinear localized wave modes in optomechanical array
Authors: Houwe Alphonse , Djorwé Philippe , Souleymanou Abbagari , Nana Engo Serge Guy , Doka Serge Yamigno
Published: August 2023

Optomechanical arrays have been used in many areas of research, from nonlinear optics to acoustics. In particular, the optomechanical array has been studied for its interesting properties such as strong optical force and high frequency resonance. In this work, we carry out the modulated wave patterns and nonlinear modes by driving one end of the optomechanical array in the forbidden gap. We use the discrete nonlinear Schrödinger equation with self-Kerr nonlinear term to determine the threshold amplitude. We then consider the driven amplitude to drive the model above the phonon band. The result is a train of waves with an asymmetric shape in the forbidden gap. For large values of the nonlinear term, we observe unstable modes of the modulation growth rates and the modulated wave patterns also emerge from the driven optomechanical array. At the specific cell index, the pulse train increases in amplitude and brings instability in the bandgap. These results open a new feature of the position modulated self-Kerr nonlinear term as an internal force to drive the nonlinear Schrödinger equation.
Optical image encryption algorithm based on a new four-dimensional memristive hyperchaotic system and compressed sensing
Authors: Du 都 Yang 洋 , Long 隆 Guoqiang 国强 , Jiang 蒋 Donghua 东华 , Chai 柴 Xiuli 秀丽 , Han 韩 Junhe 俊鹤
Published: August 2023

Some existing image encryption schemes use simple low-dimensional chaotic systems, which makes the algorithms insecure and vulnerable to brute force attacks and cracking. Some algorithms have issues such as weak correlation with plaintext images, poor image reconstruction quality, and low efficiency in transmission and storage. To solve these issues, this paper proposes an optical image encryption algorithm based on a new four-dimensional memristive hyperchaotic system (4D MHS) and compressed sensing (CS). Firstly, this paper proposes a new 4D MHS, which has larger key space, richer dynamic behavior, and more complex hyperchaotic characteristics. The introduction of CS can reduce the image size and the transmission burden of hardware devices. The introduction of double random phase encoding (DRPE) enables this algorithm has the ability of parallel data processing and multi-dimensional coding space, and the hyperchaotic characteristics of 4D MHS make up for the nonlinear deficiency of DRPE. Secondly, a construction method of the deterministic chaotic measurement matrix (DCMM) is proposed. Using DCMM can not only save a lot of transmission bandwidth and storage space, but also ensure good quality of reconstructed images. Thirdly, the confusion method and diffusion method proposed are related to plaintext images, which require both four hyperchaotic sequences of 4D MHS and row and column keys based on plaintext images. The generation process of hyperchaotic sequences is closely related to the hash value of plaintext images. Therefore, this algorithm has high sensitivity to plaintext images. The experimental testing and comparative analysis results show that proposed algorithm has good security and effectiveness.
Towards a large-area RPWELL detector: design optimization and performance
Authors: Zavazieva D. , Moleri L. , Jash A. , Sela G. , de Vito-Halevy F. , Bressler S.
Published: August 2023

We present a new design and assembly procedure of a
large-area gas-avalanche Resistive-Plate WELL (RPWELL) detector. A
50 × 50 cm2 prototype was tested in
80 GeV/c muon beam at CERN-SPS, presenting improved
performances compared to previous ones: MIP detection efficiency
over 96% with 3% uniformity across the entire detector area, a
charge gain of ≈ 7.5 × 103 with a uniformity of 22%,
and discharge probability below 10-6 with a few single
hotspots attributed to production imperfections. These results pave
the way towards further up-scaling detectors of this kind.
PDOZ: innovative personal electronic dosimeter for electron and gamma H
*(d) dosimetry
Authors: Salvi Lucia , Rossi Giulia , Bartolini Giovanni , Alpat Ali Behcet , Bozkurt Arca , Cegil Mustafa Dogukan , Guleryuz Ahmet Talha
Published: August 2023

The personal (or active) electronic dosimeters (PEDs) are
devices used to determine the individual exposure to ionizing
radiations and they are employed in hospitals, research laboratories
and nuclear power plants. The PDOZ project is a personal electronic
dosimeter able to detect, discriminate and measure the delivered
dose by beta particles and gamma rays. In this paper, several Monte
Carlo simulations are described. The first one is regarding the ICRU
sphere, [11,12] implemented to evaluate the ambient
dose equivalent, H
*(10), and the fluence-to-dose equivalent
conversion coefficients for gamma rays and beta particles. The
second simulation is carried out to study the prototype dosimeter
response to gamma rays and beta particles and, also thanks to
previous one, to obtain the conversion curve necessary to calculate
the ambient dose equivalent from the silicon photomultipliers
counts. In the last one, instead, the performance of a prototype
dosimeter, composed by a small plastic scintillator coupled to two
SiPMs, is evaluated and a simulation with different radioactive
sources is made whose results are compared with the experimental
measurements. All simulations are carried out by Geant4 including
the optical photon transport.
Fabrication and in vitro evaluation of photo cross-linkable silk fibroin–epsilon-poly-L-lysine hydrogel for wound repair
Authors: Sundaran Sneha , Kok Li-Ching , Chang Hwan-You
Published: August 2023

An optimal wound-healing hydrogel requires effective antibacterial properties and a favorable cell adhesion and proliferation environment. Although Bombyx mori silk fibroin (SF) possesses inherent wound-healing properties, it lacks these essential qualities. This study aimed to fabricate a novel photo-polymerizable hydrogel by utilizing SF’s wound-healing efficiency and the epsilon-poly-L-lysine (EPL) antimicrobial activity. The SF was modified with three different concentrations of glycidyl methacrylate (GMA) to obtain SF–GMA(L), SF–GMA(M), and SF–GMA(H). A methacrylated EPL (EPL–GMA) was also produced. Then, SF–GMA was mixed with EPL–GMA to produce photo-crosslinkable SF–GMA–EPL hydrogels. The SF–GMA(L)–EPL, SF–GMA(M)–EPL, and SF–GMA(H)–EPL hydrogels, fabricated with 20% EPL–GMA, demonstrated maximum antimicrobial activity and mammalian cell adhesion ability. The hydroxyl radical (•OH) scavenging efficiency of the hydrogels was tested and shown to be between 69% and 74%. These hydrogels also exhibited 60% efficiency in removing bacterial lipopolysaccharides. The water absorption ability of the hydrogels was consistent with the size of their internal pores. The hydrogels exhibited a slow degradation fashion, and their degradation products appeared cytocompatible. Finally, the elastomeric properties of the hydrogels were determined, and a storage modulus (G′) of 300–600 Pa was demonstrated. In conclusion, the hydrogels created in this study possess excellent biological and physical properties to support wound healing.
Nonperturbative gravity corrections to bulk reconstruction
Authors: Gesteau Elliott , Kang Monica Jinwoo
Published: August 2023

We introduce a new algebraic framework for understanding nonperturbative gravitational aspects of bulk reconstruction with a finite or infinite-dimensional boundary Hilbert space. We use relative entropy equivalence between bulk and boundary with an inclusion of nonperturbative gravitational errors, which give rise to approximate recovery. We utilize the privacy/correctability correspondence to prove that the reconstruction wedge, the intersection of all entanglement wedges in pure and mixed states, manifestly satisfies bulk reconstruction. We explicitly demonstrate that local operators in the reconstruction wedge of a given boundary region can be recovered in a state-independent way for arbitrarily large code subspaces, up to nonperturbative errors in GN
. We further discuss state-dependent recovery beyond the reconstruction wedge and the use of the twirled Petz map as a universal recovery channel. We discuss our setup in the context of quantum islands and the information paradox.
Photon centroids and their subluminal propagation
Authors: Bliokh Konstantin Y
Published: August 2023

We examine properties of the energy-density and photon-probability centroids of electromagnetic wavepackets in free space. In the second-order paraxial approximation, both of these centroids propagate with the same subluminal velocity because of the transverse confinement of the wavepacket and its diffraction. The tiny difference between the energy and probability centroid velocities appears only in the fourth order. We consider three types of wavepackets: Gaussian, Bessel, and non-diffracting Bessel. In all these cases, the subluminal propagation is clearly visible in the intensity distributions and can be measured experimentally in both classical-light and single-photon regimes. For Gaussian wavepackets, the half-wavelength delay is accumulated after propagation over about 12 Rayleigh lengths.
Comparison of printing techniques for the fabrication of flexible carbon nanotube-based ammonia chemiresistive gas sensors
Authors: Vasquez Sahira , Costa Angeli Martina Aurora , Petrelli Mattia , Ahmad Mukhtar , Shkodra Bajramshahe , Salonikidou Barbara , Sporea Radu A , Rivadeneyra Almudena , Lugli Paolo , Petti Luisa
Published: August 2023

Even though a plethora of printing technologies are currently available and their potential for the fabrication of low-cost and flexible sensors has been widely investigated, systematically based, and statistically sustained comparative studies are missing in the literature. In this work, we compare screen, inkjet, and dispense printing for the fabrication of carbon nanotube (CNT)-based ammonia (NH3) chemiresistive flexible gas sensors for the first time. Moreover, we report the first CNT-based gas sensor fabricated via Voltera printer. The devices were made of a thin layer of spray-coated CNTs and printed silver-based interdigitated electrodes. To draw a thoughtful comparison the same sensor layout, materials, and fabrication flow were used. The device morphological features were acquired through microscopic, atomic force microscope, and 3D images; additionally, the response to NH3 as well as the printing process characteristics for each technique was analyzed. From 300 µm nominal spacing between lines, we obtained a decrease of 25%, 13%, and 5% on the printed spacings with dispense, screen, and inkjet printing, respectively. At 100 ppm of NH3, a maximum response of 33%, 31%, and 27% with the dispense-, inkjet-, and screen-printed sensors were found, respectively. Statistical differences were observed between the mean values on the NH3 response of dispense- compared to the inkjet- and screen-printed sensors, which in effect showed the highest response in the Tukey test. This demonstrated that the fabrication technique employed can induce a different response mainly driven by the printed outcomes. Following a holistic approach that includes the sensor response, the application, the market perspective, and the process versatility, we suggest screen printing as the most suitable method for CNT-based NH3 gas sensor fabrication.
Quantum gates with oscillating exchange interaction
Authors: Nguyen Daniel Q L , Heinz Irina , Burkard Guido
Published: August 2023

Two-qubit gates between spin qubits are often performed using a rectangular or an adiabatic exchange interaction pulse resulting in a CZ gate. An oscillating exchange pulse not only performs a CZ gate, but also enables the iSWAP gate, which offers more flexibility to perform quantum algorithms. We provide a detailed description for two-qubit gates using resonant and off-resonant exchange pulses, give conditions for performing the respective gates, and compare their performance to the state-of-the-art static counterpart. We find that for relatively low charge noise the gates still perform reliably and compare to the conventional CZ gate.
Resource frugal optimizer for quantum machine learning
Authors: Moussa Charles , Hunter Gordon Max , Baczyk Michal , Cerezo M , Cincio Lukasz , Coles Patrick J
Published: August 2023

Quantum-enhanced data science, also known as quantum machine learning (QML), is of growing interest as an application of near-term quantum computers. Variational QML algorithms have the potential to solve practical problems on real hardware, particularly when involving quantum data. However, training these algorithms can be challenging and calls for tailored optimization procedures. Specifically, QML applications can require a large shot-count overhead due to the large datasets involved. In this work, we advocate for simultaneous random sampling over both the dataset as well as the measurement operators that define the loss function. We consider a highly general loss function that encompasses many QML applications, and we show how to construct an unbiased estimator of its gradient. This allows us to propose a shot-frugal gradient descent optimizer called Refoqus (REsource Frugal Optimizer for QUantum Stochastic gradient descent). Our numerics indicate that Refoqus can save several orders of magnitude in shot cost, even relative to optimizers that sample over measurement operators alone.
Urban theories and urbanization perspectives in cities across Nigeria
Authors: Essien Etido
Published: August 2023

One of the emerging research trends from urbanization is the study of urban growth patterns. These growth patterns are primarily based on the growth of the local economy that directly affects agricultural lands. In Africa, the local economy has spurred the extinction of many agrarian sectors. Yet, few studies at the regional level have paid attention to these changes. Using diverse scientific literature on global urbanization, urban remote sensing, and economic geography, this study aimed to understand the theory behind urban developments in Nigeria. The primary data were collected in two study regions in the country’s eastern and southern parts, making it a large dataset to assess urban formation in these areas. We examined the evolution of urban development from the perspectives of infrastructural development, expansion, change in land use, and urban job migration opportunities that affect agrarian activities. White-collar job opportunities are limited in urban areas, substantially increasing the startup of small-scale businesses. We introduce the notion of natural resource urbanism, which implies urbanization that is triggered by the influx of natural resource revenue to strengthen the dwindling local economy. The infusion of a shared natural resource revenue creates a reform in the local economy and the advent of a consumption-based economy. A shared natural resource revenue drives massive infrastructural developments, but the dependence on the availability of those natural resources in the states raises concerns about its long-term sustainability for strengthening the local economy.
A strategy for 2D MXenes as thermal management materials by laser shock nanoshaping
Authors: Branco Danilo de Camargo , Cheng Gary J
Published: August 2023

The two-dimensional (2D) titanium carbides (

T

i

n
+
1

C

n

) belong to the MXene family, with carbon and titanium alternating in a flake structure, and are emerging options for nanoelectronics applications. In this study, the feasibility of nanoshaping of 2D titanium carbides for tunable thermal management materials was investigated. 2D titanium carbides demonstrate high degrees of formability on nanoscale and efficiency as thermal management systems in nanoelectronics components. The thermal conductivity of various MXene 2D flakes was studied using molecular dynamics simulations. A robust thermal management behavior has been predicted for 2D MXenes after nanoshaping on various nanomold patterns, which will facilitate the development of MXene-based metamaterials for thermal management in electric nanocomponents. The size dependence analysis shows that the MXenes thermal conductivity is highly influenced by the flake size leading to a variation in experimental values due to scale factors. Our model showed that Ti2C is more sensible to strain at both supported and suspended conditions, while the thicker MXenes are not too influenced by strain. When supported, the thermal conductivities of all simulated MXenes considerably decrease due to Z phonon modes suppression. Bending strain also showed an effect in the MXenes thermal conductivity by scattering phonon modes. This makes MXenes an attractive option for the management of thermal fields.
Ancillary Procedures to Facelift Surgery: What has Changed?
Authors: Stein Michael J , Aston Sherrell J
Published: August 2023

The facelift remains the gold standard for rejuvenating the aging face. Many surgical techniques exist in the surgeon's armamentarium that vary based on scar burden, extent of skin undermining, and manipulation of the superficial musculoaponeurotic system. Yet, existing strategies predominantly address the mobile face and have limited effect on fixed zones such as perioral, periorbita, and forehead. Multiple ancillary techniques have therefore been developed to address this therapeutic gap in facial rejuvenation. The most popular techniques today include dermabrasion, lasers, chemical peels, and radiofrequency devices. All have demonstrable safety and efficacy and are chosen based on the patient's unique anatomical presentation, comfort level, and tolerability of recovery time. Surgeons are ideally equipped with the tools and skills to offer all modalities and then tailor their treatment to the specific patient's anatomy. Herein, we review the most effective ancillary procedures of the facelift and describe an evolution of their use in our practice.

Level of Evidence: 5
Seedability: optimizing alignment parameters for sensitive sequence comparison
Authors: Ayad Lorraine A K , Chikhi Rayan , Pissis Solon P
Published: August 2023

Motivation

Most sequence alignment techniques make use of exact k-mer hits, called seeds, as anchors to optimize alignment speed. A large number of bioinformatics tools employing seed-based alignment techniques, such as Minimap2, use a single value of k per sequencing technology, without a strong guarantee that this is the best possible value. Given the ubiquity of sequence alignment, identifying values of k that lead to more sensitive alignments is thus an important task. To aid this, we present Seedability, a seed-based alignment framework designed for estimating an optimal seed k-mer length (as well as a minimal number of shared seeds) based on a given alignment identity threshold. In particular, we were motivated to make Minimap2 more sensitive in the pairwise alignment of short sequences.

Results

The experimental results herein show improved alignments of short and divergent sequences when using the parameter values determined by Seedability in comparison to the default values of Minimap2. We also show several cases of pairs of real divergent sequences, where the default parameter values of Minimap2 yield no output alignments, but the values output by Seedability produce plausible alignments.

Availability and implementation

https://github.com/lorrainea/Seedability (distributed under GPL v3.0).