bluuebunny/crossref_metadata_2025 huggingface dataset:
Development of triethylamine detecting semiconductor sensor and to study its metrological description in technical and ecological safety
Authors: Abdurakhmonov Ergashboy , Muradova Zulfiya , Zikirov Salokhiddin
Published: February 2024

In this study, a semiconductor sensor was developed to detect triethanolamine. The influence of various factors on the metrological parameters of the developed sensor is investigated. Studies have shown that when using semiconductor films based on SnO2 and Fe2O3, the optimal temperature providing the maximum signal of the gas-sensitive material (GSM) relative to trimethylamine is 375 °C. At this temperature, it was observed that the signal value corresponding to the same concentration of triethylamine increased with an increase in the amount of iron oxide in gassensitive materials. The temperature of 375 ° C on the surface of the fuel was provided under the influence of a voltage applied to the sensor equal to 2.1 V. Therefore, subsequent experiments were carried out at a voltage value applied to the sensor, 2.1 V. The change in the resistance of the semiconductor sensor corresponding to different temperature values is explained by the difference in the adsorption of gases on the surface of fuels and lubricants and by different mechanisms of their interaction, which makes it possible to selectively determine triethylamine in the presence of other gases.
Modeling of adaptation of pests to transgenic agricultural technology taking into account the influence of taxis
Authors: Kazharova Irina , Fomenko Natalya , Taran Aleksey
Published: February 2024

Despite the high-tech innovation level of cultivation and processing damage by insects - pests is still high. It causes the urgency of growing new genetically modified varieties of agriculture containing the gene of the soil bacterium called transgenic or genetically modified. This article explains the importance of mathematical modeling for the cultivation of genetically modified crops.
Energy efficiency analysis of caustic soda production process
Authors: Balzamov Denis , Bronskaya Veronika , Kharitonova Olga , Khabibullina Guzel , Ignashina Tatiana , Borisova Olga
Published: February 2024

The increase in the cost of fuel and energy resources motivates industrial enterprises to introduce new technical solutions for their effective use. At the same time, as a result of the production ac-tivities of industrial enterprises, a significant amount of waste is generated that negatively affect human health and the environment. Such enterprises include caustic soda production plants, the technology of which is associated with the formation of thermal and combustible secondary energy resources in the form of steam, condensate, process water, etc. Such types of resources may be useful to use for the production of thermal energy for the company's own needs, or heating of raw materials or material flows involved in the technological chain. The technology of caustic soda production is considered it this paper, the basic structure of production is discussed, the material balance is given, options for improving the efficiency of energy resources are proposed.
Synthesis of silver nanoparticles
Authors: Lutpillaeva Masuda , Hoshimov Farhod
Published: February 2024

The article presents information about plant protection products, methods for the synthesis of silver nanoparticles, stabilization of the resulting solutions, and the morphology of the resulting colloidal solution. The chemical synthesis of silver nanoparticles was carried out in the presence of reducing agents and stabilizers. Silver nitrate was used as a source of silver, and glucose, sodium citrate and hydrazine were used as reducing agents; water-soluble polymers were used as stabilizers - polyvinylprolidone, polyvinyl alcohol and polyvinyl acetate. Under optimal conditions, stable silver nanoparticles with different color solutions were obtained. An increase in the color intensity of solutions is associated with the dispersion of silver nanoparticles. The shape and size of silver nanoparticles are directly dependent on the concentration of solutions, the nature of stabilizers, reducing agents and temperature. By controlling the reaction conditions, it is possible to synthesize silver nanoparticles of various shapes and sizes. The relationship between the shapes and sizes of nanoparticles, the concentration of silver salt, temperature and the nature of the stabilizer is indicated. The resulting nanosilver is recommended for use in agriculture.
Use of naphthalencarboxylic acids in gardening
Authors: Kakharova Mukharram , Soliev Makhammadjon
Published: February 2024

In gardening, in particular when growing apple fruits, the quality of the harvest is important. To do this, it is necessary to carry out a number of agrotechnical measures from the moment the fruit tree blooms until the moment it is harvested. Chemicals are also widely used in these activities. The group of such substances includes phytohormones or their analogues, for example epibrassinolide, sodium salts of gibberellic acid. In this article, in addition to 2-(naphthyl-1)acetic acid, the biological activity of 2- (naphthyl-2)acetic, 3-(naphthyl-1)propionic and 3-(naphthyl-2)propionic acids was investigated.
Experimental study of hydrodynamics in a vortex contact apparatus
Authors: Bakhronov Khoshim , Akhmatov Abdumalik , Sattarov Olim , Khudoyberdiyeva Nazara , Annaqulov Sherzod
Published: February 2024

The outcomes of experimental investigations into ascertaining the hydraulic resistance of a vortex apparatus, featuring swirling gas and liquid flows under diverse design and operational conditions, are showcased. These examinations on pressure loss in vortex-type apparatuses facilitate the estimation of energy consumption for activities such as dust removal, contact heat exchange, gas absorption purification, and other processes conducted within gas-liquid systems. Notably, it has been observed that the hydraulic resistance of the scrutinized vortex apparatus is markedly lower compared to the pressure drop encountered in nozzle-type and plate-type apparatuses. Furthermore, it does not surpass the resistance exhibited by high-efficiency vortex-type apparatuses of alternative designs. The hydraulic resistance of hollow vortex apparatuses, equipped with tangential swirlers, is contingent upon variables such as gas phase velocity, liquid flow rate, apparatus design parameters, and the physical properties of the working media. Through the meticulous analysis of experimental data, calculation dependencies have been derived to determine the resistance coefficients of both dry and irrigated vortex apparatuses. These dependencies prove to be practical and convenient from an applied standpoint.
Rescue system for people evacuation for highrise buildings
Authors: Carev Evgeny , Rukomoinikov Konstantin , Makarov Vladimir , Anisimov Ilya , Anisimov Nikita
Published: February 2024

The article deals with the issues of ensuring fire safety of multifunctional high-rise buildings and structures. Measures are given to ensure fire safety of multifunctional high-rise buildings and structures. Effective modern methods of improving the safety of using constructive solutions that prevent the spread of fire and the evacuation of people from places covered in flames and smoke by combustion products and blocking access to stairwells are reflected. Since in some cases it is not possible to save people from a burning building in traditional ways, structural solutions are additionally presented that contribute to the safe evacuation of residents of the house. When reviewing existing designs, their shortcomings were identified. The authors proposed a new design of an effective, non-traumatic and safe device for saving people, especially those with low physical fitness and limited physical abilities. It allows you to simplify the design, provide the necessary speed, ensure the availability of evacuation of people with physical disabilities, avoid the presence of auxiliary equipment on a stationary ground object, ensure manufacturability in use, which does not allow, if necessary, to save people from windows and balconies, increase productivity in the “descent-ascent” mode.
Passive acoustic monitoring as a way to assess daily dynamics of animal activity in urban green areas
Authors: Levik Aleksandr , Dobromyslov Ivan , Matasov Victor
Published: February 2024

Fast process of urbanization makes it crucial to include cities in assessment of all global processes. Urban areas on the one hand are subjects to the high levels of anthropogenic influence. On the other hand, urban green areas could provide shelter for some species, inhabiting highly disturbed rural landscapes. The data on daily dynamics of activity is required to assess the impact of noise and light pollution on biodiversity. In this study we have checked the efficiency of passive acoustic monitoring (PAM) in assessing the daily dynamics of animal acoustic activity in city parks. We have identified the acoustic signals of birds on the records and calculated the time of each species acoustic activity. Moreover, we have conducted the classical birds’ survey to assess the efficiency of PAM. In order to evaluate the possibility of using acoustic indices to assess daily dynamics of acoustic activity, we have calculated NDSI, BI, ACI and ADI indices for each hour a day. We managed to acoustically detect 70% of species, found by route census by single recorder. NDSI (Normal Difference Soundscape Index) correlates well with total acoustic activity of animals and could be used as indicator for this parameter.
Theoretical basis for the development of a new assortment of costume fabrics of various compositions
Authors: Kazakova Dilfuza , Khamrayeva Sanovar , Bekmuratova Zulfiya
Published: February 2024

The article covers the results of research conducted on production of fabrics of various blended composition, such as local wool + cotton + polyester and cotton + cattail, in order to develop a new assortment of costume fabrics of various compositions. The production of such costume fabrics did not require the replacement of technological equipment, only the equipment was partially improved in order to settle the new assortment of production fabrics. The model for knitting costume fabrics of various compositions that gives positive results has been developed.
Primary Extracranial Meningiomas of the Sinonasal Tract: A Systematic Review
Authors: Goh Xin L. , Chee Justin Rui Tzen , Tham Alex C.
Published: February 2024

Background Primary extracranial meningiomas (PEMs) of the sinonasal tract with no intracranial extension are rare. Our study presents the largest systematic review to date, providing a comprehensive overview and comparison of the characteristics, treatment, and prognosis of PEMs, with comparison to primary intracranial meningiomas (PIMs).

Methods A systematic review was conducted according to the PRISMA guidelines on PubMed, Embase, and Google Scholar up to November 1, 2022. A total of 70 documented cases from 64 articles were included. Data analysis was performed to compare low-grade (World Health Organization [WHO] Grade I) and high-grade (Grade II, III) PEMs.

Results Majority of patients were symptomatic with nasal symptoms (72.1%), followed by eye symptoms (41.2%) and facial swellings (41.2%). The nasal cavity was the most commonly affected site (70.0%). Most tumors were WHO Grade 1 (87.5%) with meningothelial histological subtype. PEMs have a predilection for involvement of surrounding structures, with more than half reporting erosion of sinonasal walls or orbital involvement (64.3%). Despite so, PEMs have a favorable prognosis, with high survival rates (95.3%) and low rate of recurrence (8.5%). Mainstay of treatment is surgical resection (98.6%). A total of 69/70 cases (98.6%) underwent surgical resection.

Conclusions There are no clear defining clinical features of PEMs; hence, it is imperative for clinicians to prioritize histological diagnosis to guide further management. A conclusive diagnosis of PEMs, i.e., exclusion of PIMs, requires imaging and potential intraoperative assessment. Its prognosis is likely dependent on both WHO grading and the ability to achieve complete surgical extirpation. Endoscopic resection is recommended even in high-grade PEMs for localized and resectable disease. Radiotherapy may be reserved for unresectable or recurrent tumors as salvage therapy.
Incidence of Velopharyngeal Insufficiency after Primary Cleft Palate Repair: A 27-Year Assessment of One Surgeon's Experience
Authors: Jung Chan Woo , Seo Hyung Joon , Choi Ye Seul , Bae Yong Chan
Published: February 2024

Background Velopharyngeal insufficiency (VPI) is a major complication of cleft palate repair. The purpose of this study was to evaluate the incidence and predictive factors of VPI after cleft palate repair based on 27 years of one surgeon's experience.

Methods Medical records were retrospectively reviewed for 652 patients who underwent cleft palate repair between 1995 and 2021. After exclusion of those with other syndromes or developmental disorders, the study included 374 patients with sufficient follow-up until the age of 4 years, when language evaluation was possible. VPI status was categorized through subjective and objective tests into normal, VPI, and borderline. We analyzed potential differences in VPI incidence by multiple factors. Factors with significance were analyzed to confirm the relationships between subvariables.

Results Of the 374 patients, 311 (83.2%) exhibited normal pronunciation, 51 (13.6%) had VPI, and 12 (3.2%) were borderline. Primary cleft palate repair performed after 18 months was associated with a higher incidence of VPI than repair conducted before 18 months (p = 0.005). The incidence of VPI was higher in cases of submucous cleft palate than in the other types based on the Veau classification (p = 0.011). However, in the multivariable analysis, only the submucous type showed statistically significant results (p = 0.026).

Conclusion A total of 374 people underwent primary cleft palate repair, and 13.6% of those with VPI required secondary therapy. The incidence of VPI was relatively high among patients with primary cleft palate repair after 18 months and patients with submucous cleft palate.
Using 3D Bioprinted Autologous Minimally Manipulated Homologous Adipose Tissue for Limb Salvage in Treating Diabetic Foot Ulcer
Authors: Yoon Hyeon Min , Song Woo Jin
Published: February 2024

Reconstructive surgeons face challenges when considering limb salvage methods for the treatment of diabetic foot ulcers (DFUs). In this article, we present our experience with autologous fat grafting as a viable alternative in cases where flap reconstruction is difficult. We encountered a 78-year-old female patient with a nonhealing DFU who had multiple comorbidities, including renal failure and severe peripheral arterial disease. During the initial multidisciplinary meeting, due to extensive necrosis and osteomyelitis, amputation was recommended. However, the patient expressed a strong preference for a salvage procedure and refused amputation. After careful consideration, we opted to reconstruct the patient's foot using three-dimensional bioprinted autologous minimally manipulated homologous adipose tissue. The AMHAT was engrafted well without complications such as autolysis, graft failure, or infection. After the operation, the large defect with partial bone exposure was covered with healthy granulation tissue. The size of the wound decreased to less than half its original size after 6 weeks of surgery, and it decreased to less than 25% after 12 weeks of surgery. The AMHAT may be an appealing treatment option for diabetic foot patients who are unsuitable for flap reconstruction due to comorbidities.
Smooth versus Textured Tissue Expanders: Comparison of Outcomes and Complications in 536 Implants
Authors: Allam Omar , Dinis Jacob , Almeida Mariana N. , Junn Alexandra , Mozaffari Mohammad Ali , Shah Rema , Chong Lauren , Olawoyin Olamide , Mehta Sumarth , Park Kitae Eric , Avraham Tomer , Alperovich Michael
Published: February 2024

Background Increasing concerns regarding the safety of textured surface implants have resulted in surgeons transitioning from textured tissue expanders (TEs) to smooth TEs. Given this change has only recently occurred, this study evaluated outcomes between smooth and textured TEs.

Methods Women who underwent two-stage breast reconstruction using TEs from 2013 to 2022 were included. TE-specific variables, perioperative information, pain scores, and complications were collected. Chi-squared, t-test, and linear regression analyses were performed.

Results A total of 320 patients received a total of 384 textured and 152 smooth TEs. Note that 216 patients received bilateral reconstruction. TEs were removed in 9 cases. No significant differences existed between groups regarding comorbidities. Smooth TEs had a higher proportion of prepectoral placement (p < 0.001). Smooth TEs had less fills (3 ± 1 vs. 4 ± 2, p < 0.001), shorter expansion periods (60 ± 44 vs. 90 ± 77 days, p < 0.001), smaller expander fill volumes (390 ± 168 vs. 478 ± 177 mL, p < 0.001), and shorter time to exchange (80 ± 43 vs. 104 ± 39 days, p < 0.001). Complication rates between textured and smooth TEs were comparable. Smooth TE had a greater proportion of TE replacements (p = 0.030). On regression analysis, pain scores were more closely associated with age (p = 0.018) and TE texture (p = 0.046). Additional procedures at time of TE exchange (p < 0.001) and textured TE (p = 0.017) led to longer operative times.

Conclusion As many surgeons have transitioned away from textured implants, our study shows that smooth TEs have similar outcomes to the textured alternatives.
18F-Fluorodeoxyglucose Uptake in Bilateral Diaphragmatic Crura: A Relatively Uncommon Benign Variant Noted in a Treated Case of Extraosseous Paraspinal Ewing's Sarcoma
Authors: Baberwal Parth , Sonavane Sunita N. , Basu Sandip
Published: February 2024

A toddler was diagnosed with extraosseous Ewing's sarcoma, primary large epidural paraspinal soft tissue in the lumbar region encasing the cord and neural foramen from D12–L1 to L4–L5. After eight cycles of induction chemotherapy with vincristine, doxorubicin, and cyclophosphamide alternating with etoposide and ifosfamide, 18F-FDG positron emission tomography/computed tomography (18F-FDG-PET/CT) scan confirmed no active disease. Later external beam radiotherapy (EBRT) at D10–L5 was completed. At 3 months follow-up, 18F-FDG-PET/CT reconfirmed no residual/active disease; however, a new incidental finding of diffuse benign bilateral diaphragmatic 18F-FDG uptake was noted in the clinically asymptomatic patient, which remained unexplained.
Plastic Surgeon versus Orthopedic Surgeon: Where Would You go for Your Hand Injury? A Cross-Sectional Study in Saudi Arabia
Authors: Alnaim Muna F. , AlRabiah Nouf M. , Kaabi Hanan Ahmed M Al , Zogel Basem , Alfaifi Samar , AlMssallem Nora Ibrahim , Dafer Bassmh A. Al
Published: February 2024

Background Hand surgery has become a well-established medical specialty in recent years, with many highly trained hand surgeons practicing in various cities throughout Saudi Arabia. It is crucial to assess the public's knowledge and awareness regarding hand surgery specialists and to identify the existence of bias in the public's perception of plastic and Orthopedic surgeons.

Methods A self-administered questionnaire was designed and disseminated to adults in Saudi Arabia via Google Forms. The questionnaire addressed participants' knowledge about which type of surgeon they would consult for various hand-related issues.

Results A total of 716 participants were surveyed. Most believed Orthopedic surgeons were more qualified for hand surgeries than plastic surgeons. Furthermore, the public seemed to feel safer with Orthopedic surgeons regarding complications. There was a misconception regarding plastic surgeons' qualifications, with only 24.4% recognizing that all plastic surgeons could perform hand surgery. The majority also held misconceptions regarding Orthopedic surgeons' qualifications for hand surgery. Gender and educational level influenced the responses, with females and those with bachelor's degrees or higher showing slightly more knowledge.

Conclusion There is a need for increased public awareness and education regarding the qualifications and capabilities of both plastic and Orthopedic surgeons in hand surgeries. Both specialties are well-trained and competent in this area, and the choice should be based on the specific needs and circumstances of the patient.
Why insects orbit light at night
Authors: Wilson R Mark
Published: February 2024

Mistaking artificial light for the sky, insects become entrapped while circling it. High-speed camera footage captures the behavior in action.
TCR signaling induces STAT3 phosphorylation to promote TH17 cell differentiation
Authors: Qin Zhen , Wang Ruining , Hou Ping , Zhang Yuanyuan , Yuan Qianmu , Wang Ying , Yang Yuedong , Xu Tao
Published: February 2024

TH17 differentiation is critically controlled by “signal 3” of cytokines (IL-6/IL-23) through STAT3. However, cytokines alone induced only a moderate level of STAT3 phosphorylation. Surprisingly, TCR stimulation alone induced STAT3 phosphorylation through Lck/Fyn, and synergistically with IL-6/IL-23 induced robust and optimal STAT3 phosphorylation at Y705. Inhibition of Lck/Fyn kinase activity by Srci1 or disrupting the interaction between Lck/Fyn and STAT3 by disease-causing STAT3 mutations selectively impaired TCR stimulation, but not cytokine-induced STAT3 phosphorylation, which consequently abolished TH17 differentiation and converted them to FOXP3+ Treg cells. Srci1 administration or disrupting the interaction between Lck/Fyn and STAT3 significantly ameliorated TH17 cell–mediated EAE disease. These findings uncover an unexpected deterministic role of TCR signaling in fate determination between TH17 and Treg cells through Lck/Fyn-dependent phosphorylation of STAT3, which can be exploited to develop therapeutics selectively against TH17-related autoimmune diseases. Our study thus provides insight into how TCR signaling could integrate with cytokine signal to direct T cell differentiation.
Explainable artificial intelligence-based evidential inferencing on process faults in plasma etching
Authors: Choi Jeong Eun , An Surin , Lee Younji , Lee Yongil , Kim Dohyun , Hong Sang Jeen
Published: February 2024

The fault detection and classification (FDC) modeling proposed in this study is a research approach that is intended to improve the performance of plasma process models by leveraging optical emission spectroscopy (OES) data containing plasma information (PI) and enhancing model interpretability using explainable artificial intelligence (XAI) algorithms. Status variable identification data that included normal and abnormal states of bias power, pressure, SF6 gas flow, and O2 gas flow were collected during a silicon etching process with SF6, O2 gas plasma. Additional variables were derived from the OES data and included additional PI, such as O and F radicals, which were computed using actinometry, and electron temperature and electron density computed using the line ratio method. By building a high-performance FDC model and interpreting its results using XAI algorithms, we propose solutions to the limitations of the FDC model in semiconductor plasma processes.
Performance analysis of solution-processed nanosheet strain sensors—a systematic review of graphene and MXene wearable devices
Authors: Boland Conor S
Published: February 2024

Nanotechnology has led to the realisation of many potentialInternet of Thingsdevices that can be transformative with regards to future healthcare development. However, there is an over saturation of wearable sensor review articles that essentially quote paper abstracts without critically assessing the works. Reported metrics in many cases cannot be taken at face value, with researchers overly fixated on large gauge factors. These facts hurt the usefulness of such articles and the very nature of the research area, unintentionally misleading those hoping to progress the field. Graphene and MXenes are arguably the most exciting organic and inorganic nanomaterials for polymer nanocomposite strain sensing applications respectively. Due to their combination of cost-efficient, scalable production and device performances, their potential commercial usage is very promising. Here, we explain the methods for colloidal nanosheets suspension creation and the mechanisms, metrics and models which govern the electromechanical properties of the polymer-based nanocomposites they form. Furthermore, the many fabrication procedures applied to make these nanosheet-based sensing devices are discussed. With the performances of 70 different nanocomposite systems from recent (post 2020) publications critically assessed. From the evaluation of these works using universal modelling, the prospects of the field are considered. Finally, we argue that the realisation of commercial nanocomposite devices may in fact have a negative effect on the global climate crisis if current research trends do not change.
A color image encryption scheme based on cellular neural networks and linear feedback shift registers
Authors: Yan Shaohui , Wang Jianjian , Li Lin
Published: February 2024

In this paper, a cellular neural network (CNN) chaotic system is constructed and the multiple stability of the system and its rich chaotic properties are confirmed by studying the effect of parameters on the system, coexisting attractors, and offset boosting behavior. As linear feedback shift registers (LFSR) can be applied to cryptography, this paper applies LFSR to generate encrypted key matrices to enhance the randomness of encryption algorithms. Based on CNN and LFSR, a new color image encryption algorithm is designed by combining DNA coding and bit-plane decomposition with high bit-plane Zigzag dislocation changes. Experimental results and security tests show that the algorithm is highly secure and resistant to a variety of common attacks, such as differential attacks, cropping attacks, and noise attacks.
Insights into the design principles of JF-ED-VTFET for biosensing application
Authors: Singh Shailendra , Agnihotri Suneet Kumar , Tewari Vijay Kumar , Bharti Kamlesh Kumar , Hossain M Khalid , Samajdar D P
Published: February 2024

In this research article, we have designed a junction-free electrostatically doped vertical tunnel field-effect transistor (JF-ED-VTEFT) for label-free biosensing applications. We incorporated a nano-cavity within the gate-oxide layer near the source end of the FET to enable the detection of biomolecules based on the principle of dielectric modulation and without the requirement of external labeling. The proposed biosensor is thoroughly analyzed, considering various aspects such as electric field, energy band, transfer characteristics, and sensitivity parameters including energy band diagram, ON-current, ION/IOFF ratio, electrical analysis, and surface potential characteristics. The investigation of sensitivity encompasses practical challenges, such as different filling factors and step-profiles resulting from steric hindrance. In addition, the performance of the biosensor is evaluated by analyzing the temperature and scaling fluctuation in the integrated nanocavities. Additionally, values of biomolecules that are close to standard have been taken to validate the performance and provide insight into the sensitivity of the biosensor for detecting and analyzing the molecules.
Dynamic analysis and circuit realization of a new controllable hyperchaotic system
Authors: Lalili Yehia , Bouden Toufik , Grimes Morad , Yalcin Mustak E , Lachouri Abderrazak , Elbasi Ersin
Published: February 2024

Amidst the realm of hyper-chaotic systems, a notable deficiency is the absence of amplitude control and signal polarity. This paper addresses this limitation by introducing a new 4-D hyper-chaotic system with a hidden equilibrium-free attractor. The study focuses on amplitude control, achieved by adjusting a specific parameter, enabling manipulation of variable magnitudes while maintaining the overall signal. The offset boosting technique is investigated, enabling flexible shifting of the attractor in a desired direction. A real circuit experiment validates the proposed system’s practical applicability, confirming consistency with theoretical analysis and numerical simulations. Through introducing this new-found, the study holds significant importance for various fields, such as communications engineering and chaos-based cryptography, where precise control of signal characteristics is paramount.
Defects induced changes in conduction bands of HfS2
Authors: Lin Yu , Xiao Shaozhu , Zhang Xin , Liu Wei , He Yunpeng , Zhou Zheng , Yang Xiufu , Zhang Shiju , He Shaolong , Guo Yanfeng , Zhao Yong
Published: February 2024

We report on a comprehensive study of the electronic structures of the layered semiconductor 1T-HfS2 by employing angle-resolved photoemission spectroscopy (ARPES). With in-situ potassium doping, the band structures of HfS2 could be tuned, and both of the valence band and the conduction band could be observed. S vacancy defects could be induced by post-annealing of HfS2 and a certain amount of S vacancies would result in a peculiar change of the conduction band at

M

¯

point— the fracture of the conduction band bottom. Our results could provide key information for the defect studies and the application of HfS2.
Cryptanalysis and improvement of quantum secure multi-party summation using single photons
Authors: Tsai Chia-Wei , Lin Jason , Yang Chun-Wei
Published: February 2024

A previous study [Entropy 25.4 (2023): 590] proposed a quantum secure multi-party summation protocol wherein n participants could obtain the modulo-2 summation result using single photons and single-particle operations. Owing to the absence of an entanglement state, this protocol was more practical than other quantum summation protocols that used entanglement properties. Thus, this study investigated the claim that this proposed protocol prevented the participants’ secret inputs from being disclosed. It was found that the previously proposed protocol was vulnerable to a quantum Trojan horse attack owing to the circular qubit transmission mode. Using a security loophole, this study proposed an attack strategy that allowed an outside attacker to steal any participant’s secret input without being detected by a third party and participants. In addition, a simulation experiment was conducted to demonstrate the feasibility of the proposed attack and evaluate the number of quantum Trojan horse probes that the attacker must inject into regular qubit sequences. Finally, a solution was proposed by modifying the protocol to securely prevent quantum Trojan horse attacks.
Multi-source domain adaptation based tempo-spatial convolution network for cross-subject EEG classification in RSVP task
Authors: Wang Xuepu , Li Bowen , Lin Yanfei , Gao Xiaorong
Published: February 2024

Objective. Many subject-dependent methods were proposed for electroencephalogram (EEG) classification in rapid serial visual presentation (RSVP) task, which required a large amount of data from new subject and were time-consuming to calibrate system. Cross-subject classification can realize calibration reduction or zero calibration. However, cross-subject classification in RSVP task is still a challenge. Approach. This study proposed a multi-source domain adaptation based tempo-spatial convolution (MDA-TSC) network for cross-subject RSVP classification. The proposed network consisted of three modules. First, the common feature extraction with multi-scale tempo-spatial convolution was constructed to extract domain-invariant features across all subjects, which could improve generalization of the network. Second, the multi-branch domain-specific feature extraction and alignment was conducted to extract and align domain-specific feature distributions of source and target domains in pairs, which could consider feature distribution differences among source domains. Third, the domain-specific classifier was exploited to optimize the network through loss functions and obtain prediction for the target domain. Main results. The proposed network was evaluated on the benchmark RSVP dataset, and the cross-subject classification results showed that the proposed MDA-TSC network outperformed the reference methods. Moreover, the effectiveness of the MDA-TSC network was verified through both ablation studies and visualization. Significance. The proposed network could effectively improve cross-subject classification performance in RSVP task, and was helpful to reduce system calibration time.
An in vitro three-dimensional (3D) testicular organoid culture system for efficient gonocyte maintenance and propagation using frozen/thawed neonatal bovine testicular tissues
Authors: Tang Shiyan , Jones Celine , Mecca Rajwa , Davies Jill , Lane Sheila , Coward Kevin
Published: February 2024

Fertility preservation in prepubertal boys with cancer requires the cryopreservation of immature testicular tissues (ITTs) prior to gonadotoxic treatment. However, the limited number of germ cells in small human ITT biopsies necessitates the development of an in vitro culture system for germ cell expansion using frozen-thawed ITTs. Here, we generated testicular organoids for the in vitro maintenance and expansion of gonocytes from frozen-thawed two-week-old neonatal bovine ITTs. We investigated the effects of different cell-seeding densities, culture serums, seeding methods, and gonadotropin supplementations, on the maintenance and proliferation of enriched gonocytes. Our results demonstrated that enriched gonocytes and testicular cells from frozen-thawed neonatal ITTs could self-assemble into spheroid organoids in three days in an appropriate Matrigel-based culture environment. For the optimal formation of prepubertal testicular organoids, a seeding density of 1 × 106 cells/well is recommended over other densities. This strategy results in organoids with a mean diameter of 60.53 ± 12.12 μm; the mean number of organoids was 5.57 ± 1.60/105 μm2 on day 11. The viability of organoids was maintained at 79.75 ± 2.99% after being frozen and thawed. Supplementing the culture medium with glial cell-derived neurotrophic factor, fibroblast growth factor 2, and leukemia inhibitory factor, increased the proportion of KI67-positive proliferating cells in organoids, elevated the expression of C-KIT but reduced the expression of GFRα1 at day 28 when compared to those without hormone supplements (p< 0.05). In addition, supplementing the culture medium with follicle-stimulating hormone and testosterone helped to maintain a significantly higher viability (p< 0.05) in ITT organoids at day 28. These organoids could be cryopreserved for storage and thawed as needed. The successful generation of ITT organoids provides a valuable tool for establishing in vitro spermatogenesis, propagating human germ cells, investigating testicular physiology and the origin of germ cell tumors, and testing the toxicity of new drugs in future clinical applications.
Bioactive gelatin-sheets as novel biopapers to support prevascularization organized by laser-assisted bioprinting for bone tissue engineering
Authors: Kérourédan Olivia , Washio Ayako , Handschin Charles , Devillard Raphaël , Kokabu Shoichiro , Kitamura Chiaki , Tabata Yasuhiko
Published: February 2024

Despite significant advances in the management of patients with oral cancer, maxillofacial reconstruction after ablative surgery remains a clinical challenge. In bone tissue engineering, biofabrication strategies have been proposed as promising alternatives to solve issues associated with current therapies and to produce bone substitutes that mimic both the structure and function of native bone. Among them, laser-assisted bioprinting (LAB) has emerged as a relevant biofabrication method to print living cells and biomaterials with micrometric resolution onto a receiving substrate, also called ‘biopaper’. Recent studies have demonstrated the benefits of prevascularization using LAB to promote vascularization and bone regeneration, but mechanical and biological optimization of the biopaper are needed. The aim of this study was to apply gelatin-sheet fabrication process to the development of a novel biopaper able to support prevascularization organized by LAB for bone tissue engineering applications. Gelatin-based sheets incorporating bioactive glasses (BGs) were produced using various freezing methods and crosslinking (CL) parameters. The different formulations were characterized in terms of microstructural, physical, mechanical, and biological properties in monoculture and coculture. Based on multi-criteria analysis, a rank scoring method was used to identify the most relevant formulations. The selected biopaper underwent additional characterization regarding its ability to support mineralization and vasculogenesis, its bioactivity potential and in vivo degradability. The biopaper ‘Gel5wt% BG1wt%—slow freezing—CL160 °C 24 h′ was selected as the best candidate, due to its suitable properties including high porosity (91.69 ± 1.55%), swelling ratio (91.61 ± 0.60%), Young modulus (3.97 × 104 ± 0.97 × 104 Pa) but also its great cytocompatibility, osteogenesis and bioactivity properties. The preorganization of human umbilical vein endothelial cell using LAB onto this new biopaper led to the formation of microvascular networks. This biopaper was also shown to be compatible with 3D-molding and 3D-stacking strategies. This work allowed the development of a novel biopaper adapted to LAB with great potential for vascularized bone biofabrication.
Mechanical properties of concrete utilizing high volume palm oil fuel ash, fly ash and silica fume as blended binders
Authors: How C C , Salleh S , Hamid R
Published: February 2024

Palm oil fuel ash (POFA) has limited pozzolanic capability, only 10% can be used as cement replacement without decreasing concrete strength. Fly ash (FA) is known for low pozzolanic reactivity at early age. This study combines different ratios of hybrid POFA and FA to find an optimum combination that will produce optimum strength at early age. The fresh and mechanical properties were studied at ratios of POFA and FA at 60% replacing type II composite cement plus 2% silica fume (SF) addition. The experimental findings indicate that the highest and lowest slumps are POFA0FA60 and POFA30FA30, respectively. The compressive strength (7 days) of POFA30FA30 mix is the highest at 22 MPa and single replacement binders (POFA60FA0, POFA0FA60) are lowest at 12 MPa. However, at 28 days, mixes with higher ratios of FA shows higher increment of strength at 27 MPa, indicating that FA has started its pozzolanic activities and contributing to strength. The ratio of tensile and flexural strength POFA30FA30 to its corresponding compression strength is 25% and 61% lower than the control. For high early-age strength, POFA30FA30SF2 hybrid mix performs optimally, 7 days strength 80% of the 28 days and using a single material (60% POFA or FA), yields low early-age strength (50% at 7 days).
Effects of pyrolysis bio-oil derived from palm kernel shell on modified bitumen properties
Authors: Gungat Lillian , Manan Nur Afeera Syakirin Binti Abdul , Makinda Jodin , Ladin Mohd Azizul Bin
Published: February 2024

Economical and environmental friendly materials that able to replace petroleum based binder has become an urgent demand in road industry. Bio oil from palm oil waste is relatively more economical and has the potential to used as bitumen replacement as bio asphalt. The performance of bio asphalt derived from different source and process to produce bio oils are varies. Hence, this study aims to investigate the effects of palm kernel shell bio-oil in terms of physical properties, the chemical functional group, and the morphology. The bitumen properties were evaluated by the conventional physical tests, Fourier Transform Infrared Spectroscopy, and Scanning Electron Microscopy. The palm kernel shell bio-oil was added into the bitumen by weight of bitumen at 0%, 2%, 3%, 5%, 10%, 15%, and 20% and blended using mechanical stirrer. From the conventional physical test, it was found that bio-oil modified bitumen increased in penetration and ductility with decreased softening point. This indicate that direct addition of bio oil soften the modified bitumen. The change of the functional group in FTIR is significantly influenced by the increasing content of bio-oil. The morphology of the modified bitumen showed inhomogenous surface with noticeable wrinkles as the bio oil content increase. Based on the physicochemical evaluation, 3% bio oil replacement passed all the physical tests requirement with less changes in FTIR result. Therefore, 3% bio oil content is proposed for further tests for direct inclusion of bio oil into bitumen for local road construction utilization.
Prediction of River Water Treatment Plant Operational Performances using Optimization Approach in Artificial Neural Network Model
Authors: Mohiyaden H. A. , Sidek L.M. , Hayder G.
Published: February 2024

Uncontrolled development at the upstream of the river catchment have led to detrimental effect to the environment, including degradation of river water quality. River Water Treatment Plant (RWTP) technology was introduced to reduce the contamination loading into the river water system, worldwide. The technology offers the best biological treatment process including simplicity and stable removal efficiency. However, the plant performance plan is difficult task to predict, thus might have influence the operational control. Recently, artificial neural network (ANN) models have been widely applied in environmental engineering area due to the ability to skip the complexity process to assume of the unknown variables compare to conventional physical based model. In this study, the results of 3-yrs performance using ANN of RWTP were developed. Feed-forward back-propagation using Levenberg–Marquardt (trainlm) used as for this predictive approach. The ideal configuration involves utilizing the tangent sigmoid transfer function (Tansig) in the hidden layer and a linear transfer function (Purelin) in the output layer, with 25 neurons. This configuration yields an R2 value of 0.963 and the most least mean square error (MSE) of 30.39. From the comparison between two model (bio-kinetic and ANN), performance indicator for ANN model shows the best and the most optimum model. Ultimately, RWTP optimization using black-box model ANN is more reliable and timesaving as compared to conventional bio-kinetic model. The development of the proposed model can be implemented and used for various water quality improvement facilities and predict the effluent target parameter in RWTP with higher degree of accuracy.
Dihedral Artin representations and CM fields
Authors: Rohrlich David
Published: February 2024

For a fixed CM field

K
K

with maximal totally real subfield

F
F

, we consider isomorphism classes of dihedral Artin representations of

F
F

which are induced from

K
K

, distinguishing between those which are “canonically” induced from

K
K

and those which are “noncanonically” induced from

K
K

. The latter can arise only for Artin representations with image isomorphic to the dihedral group of order 8. We show that asymptotically, the number of noncanonically induced isomorphism classes is always comparable to and in some cases exceeds the number of canonically induced ones.
A note on rearrangement Poincaré inequalities and the doubling condition
Authors: Martín Joaquim , Ortiz Walter A.
Published: February 2024

We introduce Poincaré-type inequalities based on rearrangement invariant spaces in the setting of metric measure spaces and analyze when they imply the doubling condition on the underline measure.
Every Δ⁰₂ Polish space is computable topological
Authors: Bazhenov Nikolay , Melnikov Alexander , Ng Keng Meng
Published: February 2024

We show that every

Δ
2
0

\Delta ^0_2

Polish space admits a computable topological presentation given by an effective indexing of some non-empty open sets in the space.
A nonlinear variant of Ball’s Inequality
Authors: Duncan Jennifer
Published: February 2024

We adapt an induction-on-scales argument of Bennett, Bez, Buschenhenke, Cowling, and Flock [Duke Math J. 169 (2020), pp. 3291–3338] to establish a global near-monotonicity statement for the nonlinear Brascamp–Lieb functional under a certain heat-flow, from which follows a global stability result for nonlinear Brascamp–Lieb inequalities under bounded perturbations.
Deep reinforcement learning identifies personalized intermittent androgen deprivation therapy for prostate cancer
Authors: Lu Yitao , Chu Qian , Li Zhen , Wang Mengdi , Gatenby Robert , Zhang Qingpeng
Published: February 2024

The evolution of drug resistance leads to treatment failure and tumor progression. Intermittent androgen deprivation therapy (IADT) helps responsive cancer cells compete with resistant cancer cells in intratumoral competition. However, conventional IADT is population-based, ignoring the heterogeneity of patients and cancer. Additionally, existing IADT relies on pre-determined thresholds of prostate-specific antigen to pause and resume treatment, which is not optimized for individual patients. To address these challenges, we framed a data-driven method in two steps. First, we developed a time-varied, mixed-effect and generative Lotka–Volterra (tM-GLV) model to account for the heterogeneity of the evolution mechanism and the pharmacokinetics of two ADT drugs Cyproterone acetate and Leuprolide acetate for individual patients. Then, we proposed a reinforcement-learning-enabled individualized IADT framework, namely, I$^{2}$ADT, to learn the patient-specific tumor dynamics and derive the optimal drug administration policy. Experiments with clinical trial data demonstrated that the proposed I$^{2}$ADT can significantly prolong the time to progression of prostate cancer patients with reduced cumulative drug dosage. We further validated the efficacy of the proposed methods with a recent pilot clinical trial data. Moreover, the adaptability of I$^{2}$ADT makes it a promising tool for other cancers with the availability of clinical data, where treatment regimens might need to be individualized based on patient characteristics and disease dynamics. Our research elucidates the application of deep reinforcement learning to identify personalized adaptive cancer therapy.